Zuko smiled as he held Lina’s hands, knowing she would face this day alone. He couldn’t replace her, but he could be there for her.

“This is your home, Lina,” he said, playing with her hair. “Your parents will be home soon. It’s a new beginning for you.”

Lina said, her voice filled with worry, “But I—”

“I know,” Zuko interrupted gently, looking into her eyes. “Don’t worry. I’ll bring your parents from Jangasas when I’m done here.”

Lina’s eyes filled with gratitude. He was the only one who would go to such lengths for her.

Still worried, she lowered her head and hesitated. “But what if they won’t come?”

“You’re their daughter, no matter what,” Zuko reassured her, his gaze gentle. “Lina, I promised that you won’t be separated from your family.”

Nodding slowly, Lina let go of his hand.

Zuko then turned his attention to Renee and smiled. “I have something to do tonight. Please take care of Lina for me.”

“Sure, I got it!” Renee replied, her voice filled with determination.

the doorway before disappearing into the night. Lina still

pure and bright smile. “Lina,

at her, realizing that they were cousins and that Renee was half a month younger. The room they were heading to had been kept by Nicholas and Linda for Pammy all these

the best room in this house,” Renee explained. “I’ve changed the sheets, and everything is clean. I’ve never

her with a

cuz,” Renee said,

she couldn’t help

in surprise. “What do

fell silent momentarily before speaking. “I’ve been a mess these past few days… I don’t know why this happened to me. Why am I Lina? How did

have another pair of parents who love you? Moreover, you would have grown up with Aunt Linda and Uncle Nic if you weren’t taken away. Your love for them

lingered. “Hmm, Zuko said the same

and faced her. “Cuz, do

Lina was curious. “What?”

Maybe to him, I’m just a weed that nobody cares about. He plucks me when

hand. “I know you need time to adapt, but I accept you. As for my biological parents… I just

you have one more

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