Miranda looked closely at the display again and shook her head. “No, it doesn’t mention that.”

Mindy walked over and stood next to her daughter, both of them facing the information board. “It says here that after the reform and opening-up period, Garrison Garden was returned to the Garrison family. Since it was given back, this place should technically be private property.”

But if it was privately owned, then why was it open to the public? And even more puzzling, why didn’t they charge an entrance fee? It was almost like they were running a charity.

Mindy thought it was strange, but she didn’t dwell on it too much. The three of them continued walking toward the eastern gate.

They couldn’t help but notice how large the garden was; after walking for nearly ten minutes, they finally arrived at another pavilion. Next to it was a small bamboo grove with stone pathways that led deep into the dense greenery, creating a tranquil and secluded atmosphere.

As the wind blew, the bamboo leaves rustled softly, and it seemed to carry a faint scent of the bamboo itself.

Following the signs, they made their way forward. Lionel walked ahead, snapping photos as he went and marveling. “This place is simply stunning!”

The family of three passed through a small courtyard, went through a narrow gate, and suddenly found themselves in an open area that stretched out before a grand mansion.

The building was ornate, with intricate carvings and an imposing elegance. At the center of the structure hung a plaque with two bold characters that read, “Main House.”

They weren’t allowed to enter the house itself and could only view it from the outside.

Mindy walked slowly toward it, stopping just outside the marked boundary. Suddenly, fragmented memories flashed through her mind, too fleeting for her to grasp.

She looked around, a bit dazed, as a growing sense of familiarity washed over her. It felt as though she’d been here before.

Miranda, who had been admiring the scenery, turned toward her. She noticed Mindy standing there, looking confused. “Mom?” she called out. “What’s wrong?”

Lionel glanced over as well and asked, “Are you feeling overheated? Do you need to rest for a bit?”

Mindy gave a small smile and shook her head gently. “No, I’m fine. It’s just that… this place is so beautiful. It makes me think how wonderful it would be to live here.”

Miranda laughed and said, “Well, people actually did live here once. The previous owner of this garden used to stay here with their family. Back then, it was private property, not open to the public like it is now.”

As they continued walking, Miranda noticed signs of past life scattered around the buildings. Several times, she spotted childish doodles etched into the pillars and railings – marks left by some mischievous child from long ago, now faded by time.

But soon, Miranda’s smile faded when they decided not to retrace their steps. Instead, they chose a different path, and just like that, they ended up completely lost.

The rock gardens and courtyards all seemed to blend into one, while the bamboo groves and pavilions looked almost identical. Even worse, there were no more signs to guide them.

“Mom… I think we’re lost,” Miranda said nervously.

“Lost? No, I’m sure this is the way out…” Mindy trailed off.

Wait a minute! she thought to herself. Did I just say, "I'm sure?"

She froze for a second, surprised by her own words. How could she remember something like that when she’d never been here before?

Miranda didn’t seem to notice her mother’s slip; she was too focused on finding a way out. Mindy decided to take the lead, guiding them through twists and turns. Then, almost by some miracle, they stumbled upon a small exit gate.

Stepping through the gate, they found themselves right back on the main street!

Miranda turned to look at Mindy, and her expression was a mix of shock and suspicion. “Mom…”