Unable to hold back any longer as the conversation unfolded, Aurora began wiping away the tears that kept streaming down her face.

“My goodness... why did I have to bring up a subject like this right now?” she said, trying to regain her good spirits as she dried her face.

Oliver smiled softly and slipped an arm around her shoulders, pulling her closer.

“It's normal, sweetheart. We're nearing the end of the year, and this time of year makes everyone a little more emotional,” he replied in a calm