Page 70

A young woman with auburn curls and golden eyes barrels toward us from the castle courtyard. She throws herself into Ren’s arms, and he laughs in delight, spinning her around before setting her down with a fond ruffle of her hair.

“I missed you too,” he says, his voice thick with affection. He turns to me. “This is my sister, Rielle,” he introduces her. “Rielle, this is my fated one, Rapunzel.”

Two of the guards snap their heads in our direction, their eyes wide as they stare at me in awe.

“Fated one?” She flashes a brilliant smile. “Oh, Ren! I’m so happy for you!” She pulls me into a warm embrace. “It’s so lovely to meet you, Rapunzel.”

Ren told me his family would like me, but I never expected such a wonderful welcome, and I cannot stop smiling as well.

“Oh, we have so much to talk about.” Rielle’s joy is infectious as she loops her arm through mine. “Come, Rapunzel. I’ll introduce you to everyone. Mother and Father will be thrilled!”

I glance back at Ren, as his sister practically drags me into the castle, and he smirks, his eyes dancing with amusement as he follows us inside.

Rielle leads me to a sitting room. It’s grand but inviting. Sunlight streams through tall windows draped in gossamer curtains. A fire crackles in the hearth, casting a golden glow over the richly woven rugs and dark wood furniture.

I recognize Ren’s parents immediately. He has his father’s bearing and his mother’s eyes.

His parents sit side by side, their keen eyes studying me with surprise that quickly melts into delight as Rielle introduces me.

Ren stands beside me, his hand resting on my lower back as he confirms to his family that I am his fated one.

Another young man stands nearby—Ren’s older brother, Rowan, I realize. His features are sharper, more serious, yet softened by the same amber gold eyes they all seem to share. An elderly couple sit beside him. Rielle introduces them as their grandparents.

Ren’s mother steps forward and pulls me into a hug. “Welcome to the family, my dear.”

They all take turns embracing me warmly, making me feel so welcome and wanted.

I’m so happy, I could burst.

When they ask how we met, I tell them about Drusilla and my time in the tower. Of my missing memories and my search for my family and the truth.

As his grandmother starts asking more questions about our journey, Ren’s arm tightens around my waist. “We’ve been traveling all day,” he says. “Perhaps we might rest for a bit and then meet you all for dinner later?”

“Of course.” His mother nods. “We’ll have plenty of time to talk then.”

Ren takes my hand, leading me through winding hallways until we reach his chambers.

His room is large but has a cozy feel to it. A massive bed sits against one wall, draped in dark green and gold, its frame carved with curling foxes. A fireplace crackles in the corner, the scent of cedarwood filling the air.

Floor to ceiling windows along the far wall reveal a breathtaking view of the vast forest beyond, its dense canopy stretching into the horizon. The space feels lived in, warm, and undeniably Ren.

I turn to him. “Is it all right for me to stay here with you in the same chamber?”

His gaze softens. “I can have another room prepared for you if you’d prefer.”

“No.” Warmth flushes my cheeks. “I’d rather stay with you.”

Something akin to relief flickers in his amber eyes. “Good.” He presses a lingering kiss to my forehead before pulling back. “I need to speak with Rowan while you get settled,” he murmurs. “But I’ll return soon. Then we can go to dinner with the family.”

I nod, watching as he disappears through the door.

Happiness blooms in my chest. I may not remember my past, but here… it truly feels like I’ve finally found a home.

CHAPTER 40

REN

My mind is a storm of chaos as I exit the room. Each step that carries me away from Rapunzel is heavier than the last as I make my way through the castle to find my brother.