As soon as the words fell, a woman’s voice suddenly came from the inner room. “Calling her Madam Raelynn Mercer feels too distant, Stephen. Be more polite and just call her Madam Raelynn from now on.” As she finished speaking, the woman stepped into view. Raelynn’s eyes widened in surprise. “Zoey?” Zoey smiled gracefully. “Raelynn, it’s been a long time.” Stephen’s expression softened as he greeted her. “Mom, these are the friends I brought back.” Zoey chuckled. “Oh, they’re my friends too.” She seemed completely at ease with Raelynn’s presence, maintaining a warm and composed smile. She naturally walked over to Zane’s side and gestured for them to sit. “Raelynn, have a seat. We can talk comfortably.” Julie remained frozen in place, completely bewildered by the conversation. Mom knows Zane and his wife? She had never heard Raelynn mention it before. Rosie and Susie were equally shocked. If mom has such wealthy acquaintances in Seacity, then why are we in this miserable state? Why didn’t we come here for help from the start? Especially Susie—if they hadn’t been forced to wander the streets, she wouldn’t have… She still hadn’t fully recovered, her face pale. Stephen noticed and quickly added, “Madam Raelynn, please come in and sit. Susie might not be able to stand for too long.” Zane and Zoey both looked satisfied with Stephen’s gentlemanly demeanor. Julie and Rosie helped Susie onto the sofa. Zane, acting naturally, poured a cup of tea for Zoey before preparing tea for Raelynn and the others. Raelynn took it all in, feeling a bitter pang in her heart. Back in university, Zoey had been their classmate. She came from a good family but wasn’t particularly outstanding academically. She had always been somewhat of a background figure in their class. Back then, Zane had pursued Raelynn, but she had turned him down, believing that John had a brighter future and was more handsome. Afterward, she had been completely immersed in her romance with John, and she had lost contact with Zane. She never would have imagined he would end up with Zoey. After all these years, their relationship still seemed strong. In contrast, looking at her own situation, Raelynn couldn’t help but feel a mix of emotions. She pushed her thoughts aside and sincerely said, “We truly appreciate your help during our time of trouble.” No matter what, they offered her a place to stay when she needed it most. Zane waved dismissively. “Come on, we’re old classmates. It was just a small favor. No need for such formality.” Hearing his casual tone, Raelynn and the others felt slightly relieved. Still feeling a bit uneasy, Raelynn added, “We came here in difficult circumstances and weren’t able to bring a proper gift. It was quite rude of us.” Zoey playfully teased, “If you could still afford expensive gifts, would you even need our help?” Laughter filled the room, breaking the lingering awkwardness. Just then, an elderly woman emerged from the inner room. “Mom?” Zane immediately stood up, rushing forward to support her and offer her a seat. Seeing Xylia, Raelynn’s heart, which had just settled, tensed up once again. Back then, in order to reject Zane, she and Xylia had ended things on a rather unpleasant note. Raelynn stiffly rose to her feet. “Madam Xylia.” Julie and the others quickly followed suit, greeting respectfully, “Madam Xylia.” Xylia’s gaze swept over them, a fleeting trace of disdain in her eyes. But she was far too experienced to let it show, keeping her expression composed and unreadable. “Sit down,” she said. “Treat this place as your home. No need to be so reserved.” Seeing her amiable demeanor, Raelynn let out a quiet sigh of relief. It seemed they would be able to stay here after all. Even if there was no opportunity for herself… Raelynn’s gaze shifted toward Julie. My daughter still has a chance. If we can secure some money, we can buy a house in Seacity, and all our troubles will be solved. After some small talk, the Yarbrough family arranged accommodations for Raelynn and the others.Later, in the Yarbrough residence’s study, Xylia frowned in displeasure as she spoke to Zane. “Did you really have to bring them into our home? Couldn’t you have just found them a place somewhere else?” Zoey, who had been silent up until now, also wore a deep frown, her face filled with displeasure. She had clearly noticed the way Raelynn looked at Zane. Now that Raelynn was divorced, she could see right through her intentions. Zoey let out a cold scoff. “Some people just can’t let go of the past. They think being close will give them an advantage.” Hearing that, Zane quickly got up and walked over to Zoey’s side. “Dear…”