Curves And Claws: The Lycan King's Relentless Claim novel Chapter 86

**Fireflies in Winter Rain — Neil A. Varma**
**Chapter 86**

**Roana,**

– I

“My Baby!” I exclaimed, planting a soft kiss on the cheek of my beloved Candy. The moment our foreheads touched, she nickered in delight, her warm breath brushing against my skin like a gentle caress. It had been over a week since I last saw her, and I had missed her terribly. Candy had been staying with Sean’s horses, and the distance had felt like an eternity.

Standing just outside the farmhouse, a rush of affection overwhelmed me, and I instinctively wrapped my arms around her.

“Did you miss me?” I whispered, my heart swelling with joy as she nudged her cheek against my palm, purring contentedly. The bond we shared was deeper than words could express; she was a piece of my very soul, and I longed to feel the wind in my hair as I rode on her back once more.

But as I lovingly stroked her soft fur, I sensed movement behind me. I turned to see Keane and Sean approaching, their footsteps crunching on the gravel path.

“Hey, it’s been a while!” I called out, waving enthusiastically.

Keane’s response was subdued. He glanced away, his eyes dropping to the ground as he nodded silently. A strange heaviness settled in my chest at his distant demeanor; he had never acted this way around me before. Something felt off, and I couldn’t shake the feeling that there was more beneath the surface.

Sean, however, was a different story. He strode toward me with purpose, his eyes lighting up as they met mine. In his hands, he held a small basket, its contents hidden beneath a beautifully knitted towel.

“Roana! You look wonderful! How have you been?” he asked, his voice warm as he reached out to gently rub Candy’s back.

“I’m doing great! I could take on a pack of wolves right now!” I replied playfully, grinning widely.

Sean chuckled, his laughter ringing like music in the air. “I remember you always being strong! So, are you taking Candy home with you today?” he inquired, a hint of excitement in his tone.

“Absolutely! I just want to ride for a little while and then head back home to relax,” I said, the thought of escaping the day’s troubles filling me with glee.

I stole another glance at Keane, who remained a few steps away. His arms hung loosely at his sides, and his gaze remained fixed on the ground. It was as if he were grappling with something he couldn’t bring himself to voice. The more I observed, the more uncomfortable I felt.

“Anyway… Here you go!” Sean’s voice broke through my thoughts as he held the basket out toward me.

“What’s this?” I asked, taking the basket into my hands. It felt surprisingly heavy, and I could sense something delightful hidden beneath the towel.

“My sister baked some cupcakes and a strawberry cheesecake for you. When she heard about you, she was worried!” he explained, his smile brightening his face.

“Your sister? But that’s not fair!” I exclaimed, feigning indignation. “I haven’t even had the chance to meet her yet!”

Sean laughed softly, shaking his head. “Don’t worry. You will meet her soon. She’s a bit of an introvert and prefers her own company.”

“I totally understand. Please tell her I appreciate her kindness. I can’t wait to enjoy these treats!” I said, my smile growing wider.

“Glad to hear that! Anyway—” Sean glanced at Keane, sensing the same odd tension I felt. “I need to head to the greenhouse. See you later, Roana!”

“Yes! And don’t forget to send some fresh cheese, too!” I called after him.

“Don’t worry! I won’t forget!” he shouted back as he hurried toward the farmhouse.

11:02 Tue, Dec 16

I sighed and turned my attention back to Keane, who still hadn’t moved an inch. He didn’t even spare me a glance. That strange weight in his expression twisted something in my stomach. What had I done to cause this? The silence between us felt suffocating.

With a determined breath, I jumped onto Candy’s back, ready to ride home.

“Your Highness. You shouldn’t do this!” Keane’s sudden outburst startled me. His voice came out much quicker than he intended, laced with an urgency that made him sound almost breathless.

“What do you mean?” I asked softly, my curiosity piqued.

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