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Chapter 179
I watched her interact with them–easy smiles and casual conversation, as if she’d been here for years rather than weeks. She’d built a life while I’d been drowning in self–pity.
“I don’t know; I was thinking about taking a walk,” I said, the sudden desire to explore surprising even me.
Kieran, who’d seated himself across from me, perked up. “I can walk with you, show you around maybe if you would want that.”
“I would love that; I don’t plan on getting lost.”
“You can hardly get lost here, he replied with a laugh.
The meal passed in a blur of introductions and conversation that washed over me without really penetrating. I ate mechanically, surprised to find the food was actually good–simple but flavorful, nothing like the elaborate dishes served at Ravenhollow but satisfying nonetheless.
After dinner, Kieran waited as promised, falling into step beside me as we left the dining hall.
“This is my room; by the corner is the hall, the training room–though many prefer outdoor training, so it gets a bit useless at times, and that is pretty much it,” he explained as we walked through the main building.
“This place is nice,” I said, meaning it despite the contrast to the luxury I’d grown accustomed to.
“Are you telling me this just to be polite? Because I know you’ve seen better.”
“I am being genuine; I do think this place is… very welcoming.”
Kieran nodded, seeming pleased. “Your mother told me… a lot.”
“She did, right?” I wasn’t surprised. My mother had never been one to keep things to herself.
“Yes. She is indeed a caring woman.”
“She is.”
“She also cooks the very best food.”
Something in his tone caught my attention. “Wait, do you… You know what? Forget it.”
“Now I am curious; ask on.”
I hesitated, then decided directness was easiest. “Do you have a thing for my mother? I mean… I don’t have any problem with it.”
Kieran laughed, the sound genuine. “No, Elowen, I just think she is nice.”
“Oh, I’m sorry.” Heat rushed to my cheeks, the first time I’d felt anything resembling embarrassment in a month.
We continued our tour outdoors, where Kieran showed me the small farms and gardens that sustained the pack.
“We grow all what we consume,” he explained with evident pride.
“Maybe I could visit one of the farms anytime you are free.”
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Chapter 179.
“Who knows, maybe you could learn a thing or two.”
By the time we returned to my room, I felt physically tired but mentally clearer than I had in weeks. My mother was waiting, her face lighting up at the sight of ine.
“How was your day?” she asked, the question so normal it almost made me want to cry.
“It was nice; I think this pack is very… different.”
“I think Kieran is into you,” she said, watching me carefully.
“Mom, he is not; trust me.” I smiled.
I moved to the dresser where I’d stuffed my bags upon arrival, untouched since then. From them, I retrieved the jewelry I’d taken from Kaius’s room, along with the check he’d given me. I laid them on the bed.
“Those are really beautiful,” my mother said, eyeing the diamond watch and other expensive pieces.
“I know right, and I have some good news; you won’t need to work anymore; I’ve got these, and also.” I pulled out the check, the sum written on it still staggering.
“Elowen dear, where did you get this from?” Her voice had gone cold.
“Kaius…” I admitted, unable to meet her eyes.
“He paid you off like some…”
“Mom, this money does not belong to him, but to me,” I interrupted, my voice stronger than it had been in weeks. “I don’t know about you, but I don’t plan on remaining poor.”
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