Aria's POV
Ryder's expression softened. "He is the elder who raised me. He trained me and treated me as his own grandson."
Lydia murmured quietly. He genuinely loves the old man.
"Would you show me something?" I asked.
"What?"
"Your family photographs."
He looked surprised. "Photographs?"
I nodded. Without another question, he stood. "This way."
The hallway upstairs contained dozens of framed pictures. Some were old enough that the colors had faded. Others were recent.
Ryder pointed toward one wall. "My family history."
I slowly walked closer. Photograph after photograph, pack ceremonies, birthdays, children running through forests.
Then... I froze.
A little boy with bright golden eyes.
My breath caught.
Lydia whispered, It's him.
I stepped closer. No doubt remained. It was
