The woman scoffed.

“Are you denying your mother's past, or that you're an illegitimate child, Miss Thomas? I don't mean to be rude, but you seem to ask for it."

Laura's complexion paled.

With a trembling voice, she said, "I didn't get to choose my parents."

Laura was naturally introverted and sensitive, having endured harsh judgments from the world. Yet, she had found strength in Edwin's support. She was determined to prove her worth, to show that she, Laura Evans, deserved to be with Edwin.