Chapter 24

I sit on the porch of the packhouse, a mug of steaming tea cradled in my hands. The morning air is crisp, carrying the earthy scent of pine and damp leaves from last night’s rain. It’s peaceful here, the kind of peace I didn’t realize I needed until I found it. Or maybe, until Luke brought me here.

My thoughts drift to the whirlwind of the past few days. The claim. Luke. My parents. It all feels like a dream, and yet, I’m wide awake. Every emotion, every word exchanged, is still raw and fresh in my mind. I take a slow sip of my tea, letting the warmth seep into me, trying to steady my thoughts.

The door creaks open behind me, and I don’t need to turn around to know who it is. I can feel her presence even before she speaks.

“Mind if I join you?” Raina’s voice is soft, almost hesitant, as if she’s unsure of her place at this moment.

I glance over my shoulder, offering her a small smile. “Of course, I’d like that.”

She steps out onto the porch, her own mug in hand, and settles into the