Chapter 177. Bittersweet Homecoming

Celeste’s POV

Miranda and Kaien paused on the edge of the clearing, their expressions earnest. They spoke one last time about their mother—about memories each held and questions that had only just begun to surface—before clasping hands in a firm, unspoken agreement and then sharing a brief, warm hug.

Watching them, I caught myself hoping there had been something deeper between the two of them, some spark I had always missed. But as they pulled apart, smiles softening into polite farewells, I realized I’d been mistaken all along. Whatever special bond I thought they shared simply wasn’t there.

Nearby, Renlo cracked his knuckles theatrically, a grin plastered across his face as he flexed his arms for show. With a casual wave over his shoulder, he let fly the promise that, if destiny saw fit to bring us back together, he would make sure we met again. I laughed quietly to myself—part of me couldn’t wait to see this so-called “beta” of the Ruby Claw Pack in full