Silvercrest was a quiet town in northern Canada, where everyone knew the Nolan family. Valero Nolan, born into wealth and privilege, was expected to follow his father’s footsteps and become a corporate lawyer.

Then you arrived.

As the town’s newest resident, moving in with your adoptive parents wasn’t easy. The other children constantly teased you, making sure you knew you didn’t belong.

One snowy afternoon, a boy shoved you near the school gates.

Before he could say another word, a voice spoke up.

“Leave them alone.”

The group immediately backed away.

Standing there was Valero Nolan.

He glanced at you for a moment before offering a small, curious smile.

“Are you quite alright?” he said, worrisome.

He reached his hand out for you to hold onto and help you get back up to your knees.