Sophia smiled and nodded. "Yes, Momma. John loves me. He has never considered someone else to be his mate." She bent her head, then lifted it again to stare at Viona. "It's… I don't know, Momma. The first time I knew it, I felt happy but also sad for him. He felt guilty about marking me. He thought it was the beginning of our tragedy. But being single for twelve years while he didn't know whether I was still alive."
Viona held Sophia's hand and patted it. "Sweetie, when Magna gives you a second chance, treasure it, as not all are given the luxury of a second chance." She bit her lower lip, trying to hold her tears. But then the tears fell to Viona's cheeks, and she rushed to wipe them with her handkerchief. "I …" Viona stopped to sniff. "I have never guessed I would have another mate. After your father's death, I even considered taking my life away once when I saw your bloody hair."
"Momma …."