Burn Me Once Burn With Me (Ruby Grayson) novel Chapter 63

She'd lost an entire day this time.

Because Frieda had interfered, she hadn't managed to reclaim her inheritance as planned.

Ruby returned first to the old staff dorm to pick up Mira.

Pamela had looked after her so well. When Ruby arrived, she noticed an extra touch—a pink hairclip nestled in Mira's fine, wispy hair, making her look even more adorable.

The older ladies on break had gathered around, doting on Mira in the center of their circle, coaxing giggles from her. Smiles lit up every face.

The sight warmed Ruby's heart.

Pamela, sharp-eyed as ever, spotted her first.

"Ruby, you're back?"

She gently scooped Mira from another woman's arms, reluctantly placing the child into Ruby's embrace.

Ruby nodded, and Mira recognized her too, breaking into a toothy grin as her chubby little arms clung tightly around Ruby's neck.

"Mira's such a sweetheart. We all adore her," Pamela said with a laugh, reaching out to squeeze Mira's tiny hand.

"Thank you, all of you, really."

Ruby offered the older ladies a formal bow—so earnest that they quickly straightened from their relaxed poses, waving their hands in protest. "Oh, Ruby, what are you doing? No need to be so formal, we're all friends here!"

Pamela stood quietly to the side, narrowing her eyes in thought as she watched Ruby.

There was still a short walk from the dorm to the road where she could call a car. After saying her goodbyes, Ruby prepared to take Mira and wait for a ride.

But Pamela suggested she join them for a bit.

The three walked slowly along the clean, tree-lined path, the only sounds the breeze and the rustling leaves overhead.

"You might think I'm prying," Pamela began unexpectedly.

Ruby was caught off guard, but Pamela continued, "Honey, I don't know what you've been through this time, but…"

She patted Ruby's shoulder, her gaze encouraging. "You're Mira's mom now. Whatever happens, just remember you've got this little one to think about."

Ruby stopped in her tracks, surprised by Pamela's perceptiveness.

She lowered her gaze and nodded firmly. "Don't worry, I'm not a kid anymore."

Pamela looked at her with concern but said nothing more. She stayed until Ruby and Mira were safely in their car before turning to go.

From the window, Ruby watched her recede, unable to shake the feeling of gratitude.

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