(Ayra's POV)
Grace looked hesitant to step in, her usual confidence dimmed by guilt.
"Ayra," she said softly. "I heard what happened. I had to come."
Nana's eyes hardened, and before I could say anything, she spoke.
"So, it's true," she said, her voice cool, unwavering. "You're one of them, aren't you? You're a Coke."
Grace swallowed hard but met Nana's gaze head-on. "Yes Grandma, I am a Coke."
Nana's eyes narrowed. "If you've come here to finish what your family started, you can forget it. I won't let you hurt my granddaughter."
"Nana!" I gasped, surprised by the hostility in her voice, but Grace simply sighed.
"I don't blame you for thinking that," Grace admitted, her shoulders slumping.
"But I promise you, I have never, and will never, harm Ayra. Your family accepted me when I was cast out." Her lips trembled slightly.
