The whole party headed back. Since there were so many of them, Naomi Shaw, Lara Nash, and Mrs. Sommers took one car, while the two children rode with Julian Donovan in Arnold's car.
On the way back, Mrs. Sommers held her hand and persuaded her.
"Naomi, Lara told me all about Julian's feelings. Why not give him a chance? How many love stories in this world begin with both people in love from the very start? Most begin with one person's persistent pursuit, which eventually captures the other's heart. You put in the effort, and in return, you've won his devotion. Now you can just be together and live a happy life. What is there that you can't let go of?"
Mrs. Sommers's words threw Naomi Shaw's heart into even greater turmoil. She lowered her head and said nothing, her gaze falling on the ring he had insisted she take. He had said that this time, it was his turn to pursue her…
Lara chimed in from the side.
"That's right! A prodigal son's return is more precious than gold!"
