Meryl's POV
The woman sat at a corner table in the small café, cradling a tiny child against her chest. As I approached, the little girl came into focus. She couldn't have been older than two, with plump cheeks and small dimpled hands. Her dark hair was gathered into two small ponytails that bounced when she moved. But it was her eyes that made my breath catch in my throat. Those warm brown eyes belonged to Erin.
I stopped mid-step, unable to move forward. My pulse hammered against my ribs, and suddenly breathing felt impossible.
The woman noticed me and rose from her seat, relief washing over her features. "Miss Meryl? You're Gavin's mother?"
"Yes," I managed, forcing myself to nod while fighting to stay composed.
She offered a gentle smile before settling back into her chair. "I'm Mrs. Daniela from St. Sabrina Orphanage. Thank you for meeting me today. Please, have a seat."
