If Anything Happens

At Charleston Wharf, Princess Jade Hayes, Edward, and several others stood at the dockside, watching as crate after crate of neatly packed goods were loaded onto the ship.

"Edward, I hope everything goes smoothly on this voyage," Princess Jade Hayes said to Edward with a warm smile.

Edward laughed heartily, "With Her Majesty the Queen's blessing, this ocean journey will surely be as smooth and safe as ever!"

As they were talking, they suddenly heard the sound of a woman's sobbing nearby.

Following the sound, they saw Mrs. Charlotte Evans clutching Leonard Yuan's arm, her eyes red as a rabbit's.

"Son, when you're out there, you must take care of yourself and not make your mother worry." Mrs. Charlotte Evans wiped Leonard Yuan's face, her voice trembling. "Ah, children grow up and can't be kept at home forever. You're heading so far away, and for so many years... I'm truly worried about you."

Leonard Yuan carried a bundle on his back. The young man now showed a touch of maturity. He smiled at Mrs. Charlotte Evans, "Don't worry, Mom, I'll take good care of myself. Besides, Mr. Edward will look after me all the way, and there are friends from the academy overseas too. Please rest assured. When I return after my studies, I'll give you all a big surprise!"

Mrs. Charlotte Evans wiped away her tears, choking out repeated reminders for Leonard Yuan to take care of himself.

Arthur Evans patted Leonard Yuan's shoulder and said, "My son has grown up. I won't say much more. Since you've chosen this path, I support you and believe in you. We're all waiting for you to come back and show us the wonders from abroad."

"Alright! Dad, Mom, little sister, little brother, all of you wait for me!" Leonard Yuan gripped the bundle on his shoulder, his voice firm.

At that moment, a small figure darted over—Quentin Lin dove into Leonard Yuan's arms, quick as a rabbit. "Brother Leonard, when you come back, remember to bring me a gift! I don't want anything else, just more medical books and equipment."

"Alright, no problem. I've got it all memorized," Leonard Yuan patted his chest in assurance.

Quentin Lin clung to Leonard Yuan's leg, refusing to let go. "If you forget, I'll never forgive you!"

Leonard Yuan laughed. "Alright, alright, I promise I won't forget!"

Arthur Evans stepped forward, his expression serious. "Leonard, remember, no matter what happens overseas, your family is always your anchor. Never forget who you are."

Mrs. Charlotte Evans nodded, her eyes shining with tears. "Your father is right. Family is everything. Come back safe and sound, my child. If anything happens to you, our hearts will break."

Princess Jade Hayes watched the family, her own heart touched by their devotion. She stepped forward and placed a reassuring hand on Mrs. Charlotte Evans's shoulder.

"Mrs. Charlotte Evans, don't worry. Leonard is smart and resilient. With Edward and Sean Hayes watching over him, he'll be fine. I'll make sure they keep in touch with you regularly."

Mrs. Charlotte Evans managed a watery smile. "Thank you, Princess Jade Hayes. With you looking out for my son, I can rest easier."

Sean Hayes, standing nearby, gave a reassuring nod. "Leonard, if you ever need anything, just send word. We'll be there for you."

Edward checked the ship's manifest and called out, "All aboard! It's time!"

Leonard Yuan hugged his family one last time before boarding the ship, waving back at them with a bright, hopeful smile.

She turned to leave, her steps firm, knowing that no matter what happened, she would protect her family and the future of Ningport.

The sun rose over Charleston Wharf, casting a golden glow on Princess Jade Hayes and her family as they faced the new day together.