Chapter 991 Better Off on My Own

I never liked meddling in kids' squabbles, so I chose to overlook the mischievous twinkle in Sonya's eyes. Upon stepping out at Grace Cathedral, I paused. It had been ages since my last visit, and the place had taken on a new character. The memories of my last visit there with Idris flooded back. Reflecting on the past couple of years, life had not been all that great. It seemed they had all come to that sacred space just seeking a bit of solace. More often than not, they had to handle things on their own. Even prayers were merely a balm for the weary spirit. I did not bother going in for prayers that time. Turning to Sally, I said, "I think I'll just wander around outside." "You don't want to take a look inside?" Sally inquired. With a shake of my head and a smile, I replied, "No, I'll pass. You all go on without me." Sally seemed to want to say something more, but I had already started down the steps. On both sides of the steps were dry grass and dead wood, but there were Winter Aconites not far away. I walked over to the Winter Aconites, found a spot to sit, and looked up at them scattered against the azure sky. The flowers adorned the dry branches. With the pure blue sky serving as the backdrop, the scene looked like a clean painting. Just sitting there in the quiet was a pleasure in itself. "Meow!" The soft mew of a kitten interrupted my reverie. Glancing down, I noticed a little tabby had snuck up beside me, affectionately nuzzling my pant leg. There it was, a tiny fur ball, probably no more than two months old. The kitten nuzzled against me, its gentle purring calming my soul. I have always had a soft spot for such endearing little creatures, so I instinctively cradled it in my arms, caressing its soft head. The kitten seemed unfazed by my presence, comfortably snuggling into my lap and resting its head in my hand, giving me affectionate nudges now and then. "Yvette, there you are!" Sonya's voice rang as she approached. Her eyes lit up at the sight of the cat in my embrace. "Oh, what an adorable kitty!" she exclaimed, gently rubbing its head. I smiled and inquired, "Have you seen Mr. Sanchez and Ramona?" "They're still inside, offering prayers. I just slipped out," she confessed, her attention returning to the kitten she was playing with. Noticing her delight, I passed the kitten to her, and she did not hesitate to accept. She joyfully cradled the kitten, sitting next to the fragrant Winter Aconites, lost in the moment. I stood and gazed at the lush Winter Aconites blossoms above, feeling a sense of calm wash over me. This place had a way of settling my restless heart. "You've found yourself a perfect little sanctuary here. No wonder you didn't join the others inside," Sally chimed in with a playful note in her voice. I turned to her with a smile. "All done with your prayers?" She nodded, her eyes clouded with concern as she glanced back at Ramona, who looked rather frail. "Yes. I just hope she’ll grow up strong and not give me too much to fret about." Hearing the worry in her voice, I offered a reassuring smile. "Ramona seems to be doing just fine. You may be too worried. After all, we often have to find our own way through things." She gave a small nod. "You're right. Nothing's just handed to you because you wish for it. It's all about taking action, putting in the effort, and having a bit of luck." Suddenly, a piercing scream cut through our conversation. Sally and I whipped our heads around to find Ramona, who had been trailing behind us, in a frenzy. She was wildly hitting Sonya's tiny kitten with a stick. Sonya clutched the kitten close, using her arm as a shield against Ramona's relentless strikes. Ramona's emotions were running high, and her blows were merciless. Sonya was forced to retreat step by step, and in the chaos, a vivid red welt appeared on her pale cheek—a stark and alarming sight. "Back off! Everyone just back off..." Ramona shrieked, her movements unyielding.