“Celestia,” Renee called gently after the meeting ended. Kieran glanced at Celestia, then back at Renee, whom he recognized from her past visits to the pack during their joint efforts against the Abyss Brotherhood. “I’ll be waiting outside,” Kieran said quietly, releasing Celestia’s hand. From her reaction earlier, it was clear Renee held an important place in her life. Celestia bit her bottom lip and avoided Renee’s gaze. “Celestia… I’m so sorry for keeping the truth from you,” Renee murmured. “I promised Faye I’d protect you, to keep you safe… but now I’m one of the people who hurt you.” Her voice cracked as tears slipped down her cheeks. “Believe me, it was never my intention to hurt you,” Renee said softly. “I truly thought that keeping the truth from you was the right thing to do…

