Chapter 277

• Where his voice was usually calm and unreadable, I could catch the unmistakable hints of worry and hesitation now. The fact that he could be vulnerable with me, that he trusted me enough to share his doubts, filled me with a happiness so intense it almost hurt. I was the one person he could confide in, the one who saw his light and shadows—and cherished both.
• “It’s okay to feel happy about having siblings, even if they’re from another world and trust doesn’t come easily,” I said, my heart aching for him. Growing up, I’d never thought much about being an only child. My mom and dad were my world; even without close friends, their presence was always enough. “Have you had a chance to meet them yet?”
• “For just a moment,” he replied with a grunt, “but Isotta and Marinella were there too. I don’t trust either of them. Isotta is testing my patience, and Marinella has a temper to match her sharp tongue.”