20

Isla’s POV

As the tears welled up in my eyes, mirroring the deep emotions that flooded my soul, I couldn't help but feel an indescribable relief as I held my mother tightly. Her touch, so warm and familiar, reassured me that she was truly safe. The weight of the last few hours, filled with fear and uncertainty, lifted ever so slightly as we clung onto each other, finding solace in our embrace.

"I'm so happy that you're okay," I whispered, my voice choked with a mix of gratitude and love. My mother's eyes glistened with tears as she whispered back, her voice filled with the same emotions that overwhelmed me. Her gentle touch caressed my cheek, and in that moment, I felt a sense of comfort wash over me.

"I have missed you so much," she confessed, her voice filled with longing. I tightened my hold on her, silently promising never to let her go again. The months of separation had been agonising, the ache of her absence a constant companion, but now, knowing that she was back fille