Chapter 492: Helen's Fingertips Traced the Words on the Display Plaque

Helen's fingertips traced the words on the display plaque. "Does it mention the current owner?"

Clara leaned closer to examine it. "No specific name."

Helen frowned. "Returned to the Yi family after the economic reforms... If it's private property, why is it open to the public for free?"

Something felt off.

The family of three walked east along the cobblestone path. The garden unfolded in picturesque layers—pavilions and towers nestled among lush greenery.

"This place is enormous," Daniel remarked, snapping photos with his camera. "We've been walking for fifteen minutes and still haven't seen half of it."

Beyond a moon gate, a bamboo grove appeared. A breeze rustled the leaves, carrying their delicate fragrance.

"A winding path leads to secluded tranquility," Clara murmured.

The bamboo path opened into a clearing. At its end stood a grand main hall with vermilion doors and upturned eaves.

"Main Hall," Helen read the plaque aloud. Suddenly, her vision blurred.

Fragmented images flashed—sunlight through latticed windows, a child hopping on brick tiles, someone calling her childhood nickname...

"Mom?" Clara's voice snapped her back.

Daniel looked concerned. "Tired?"

Helen forced a smile. "Just... this place feels familiar."

Her fingers brushed a pillar, finding shallow scratches—childish doodles.

"The kids who lived here must've been happy," Clara said wistfully.

On their way back, they took a different route. The winding rock formations disoriented them.

"We're lost," Clara stopped. "The signs are gone."

Yet Helen heard herself say, "The exit's this way."

The words surprised even her.

How did she know?

Clara followed eagerly. After several corridors and rock gardens, an inconspicuous gate materialized.

Street noise flooded in as they stepped out.

Clara gaped. "Mom, how—"

Helen stood frozen, the bustling avenue stirring an inexplicable sense of recognition.