Page 94 of Dark Rebel's Fortune

Kyra felt her own eyes burning as she watched mothers and daughters reunite, her heart so full it seemed to press against her ribs. She felt Max's arm settle around her shoulders, anchoring her as waves of emotion swept over her.

"You made this happen," he whispered against her hair.

"We did it together," she corrected.

The other kids hesitated for a couple of moments before also launching themselves at their cousins, and then their mothers joined the happy tangle as well.

The elevator chimed again behind them, and asYamanu, Jade, and her crew stepped out, they got a clapping ovation from the assembled crowd.

Yamanu bowed while Jade and her crew looked uncomfortable and used the first opportunity to slink away.

Jasmine approached through the commotion. "Mom," she said, embracing Kyra. "I knew you would get them. I just didn't know how much trouble it would be. I should have gone with you."

"Your cousins needed you here." Kyra hugged her daughter fiercely, and the surreal nature of the moment washed over her.

Here she was, surrounded by family she'd only recently discovered—a daughter grown to womanhood without her, sisters she didn't remember, and nieces and nephews she was just getting to know. After decades of isolation, of belonging nowhere and to no one, she suddenly had family connections extending in all directions.

"I can't believe we're all here," she murmured against Jasmine's hair. "That we are all safe."

"Believe it." Jasmine pulled back to gaze at her with shining eyes. "Welcome home, Mom."

Kyra nodded and looked at Kian, who waited patiently until the sobs and sniffles subsided.

He then stepped forward, raising his hands for attention. The crowd gradually quieted, though the reunited families remained intertwined, reluctant to separate even briefly.

When he started speaking, it was through a translating device, but Kyra didn't see the bulky teardrop.

"On behalf of the Clan Mother and members of this community, I extend to you our warmest welcome." He paused, his gaze sweeping over the assembled group. "Here, you will find safety, and most importantly, you will find family—both the one you were born into and the larger one that embraces you."

Kyra was deeply touched by the warm welcome, her emotions overwhelming, and as she turned to look at her sisters, she was glad to see that they all looked appreciative and accepting without the snark they had exhibited before.

There was something about Kian that brooked no argument, a sincerity that permitted no doubt, not even from her skeptical sisters.

Syssi stepped forward, her multi-toned golden hair gleaming in the late afternoon sun. "Tomorrow, we'll have a proper celebration at the village square, but today is for rest as I'm sure you're all exhausted. Jasmine, Ingrid and Fenella have worked hard to prepare homes for each of your families," she said, her gentle voice a contrast to Kian's authoritative tone. "They're fully stocked with food and all the necessities. I know that you had to leave most of your possessions behind, but I don't want you to worry about a thing. Everything you need will be delivered." She turned to Jasmine. "I leave it to you to explain how things work around here."

"Thank you," Soraya said, speaking for the group. "For the rescue and for your hospitality. It is all a little overwhelming at the moment, and I don't know how we will ever be able to thank you properly, but I promise that my sisters and I will put our heads together and come up with something of value that we can contribute to this amazing community."

Syssi smiled, and even Kian gave Soraya an appreciative nod. "Kian and I will leave you in Jasmine's capable hands," Syssi said. "Your new homes are a short walk from here. Have a good night's rest, and we will see you tomorrow at noon for the celebration."

After Syssi and Kian left, Jasmine started herding their group toward the exit. "We should get everyone settled before they collapse," she said. "There's a golf cart outside for luggage, but maybe it's not needed, given how light you are all packed."

"The children don't even have pajamas," Kyra said.

Jasmine snorted. "You underestimate what can be done here in twelve hours or less. There is clothing for everyone, mothers and children. Just the basics for now, but they can order anything they need, and it will be delivered in less than twenty-four hours."

"I'm impressed," Kyra admitted.

Turning around, she saw Fenella, who was walking toward her.

"Quite the homecoming," Fenella said. "Your nieces haven't stopped talking about their mothers and cousins since we arrived here." She threaded herarm through Kyra's. "They were so scared of coming here that Jasmine didn't even tell them to pack their things, but they fell in love with the village at first sight, and they were very happy to have Okidu pack up their stuff and bring it over."

"I totally understand," Kyra said. "It's beautiful here."

Fenella nodded. "I have to admit that the place has its charms, but it's a little too much of a commune for me. I like my independence."

"Where's Din?" Kyra asked. "Wasn't he supposed to be here?"

"He'll get here Saturday evening," Fenella said. "First, he missed his flight because of an accident on the road, then his second flight got canceled, so I told him not to come because those were bad omens. Naturally, the bloke wouldn't listen to reason, so he's coming even though there was a third delay." She turned to look at Jasmine. "That reminds me. Did you bring the tarot cards back? I want Jasmine to do a reading for me regarding Din."

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