Rio's Gift to Grace

As they entered the village, they were greeted by a row of people blocking their path. Wary glances were cast towards Grace, and it was clear that her presence was not welcome. The villagers whispered amongst themselves, their displeasure evident.

Leo's face turned grave as soon as he noticed a middle-aged man with a bald head standing among the villagers. The man's stern gaze was fixed on them, his eyes narrowing in disapproval.

"Why are you traveling with that girl?" the man demanded, his voice filled with contempt.

Leo's expression hardened, though a hint of vulnerability flickered in his eyes. "Because she is my friend... a friend I want to stay with for the rest of my life," he replied firmly. He had never expected to find his father here. When he received the letter to return home, he had ignored it, thinking they wanted him to marry their friend's daughter.