Chapter 137

Brock descended the stairs and was greeted by a familiar silhouette waiting for him. He halted, his eyes widening in disbelief, blinking repeatedly. The dark, wavy hair, the slender frame—it couldn't be. With hesitant steps, his heart raced, and he approached cautiously.

"Valerie," Brock whispered, his voice tinged with shock as he confronted the unexpected sight.

She turned to meet his gaze, and