Chapter 979:

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“Clarice…” His voice was low, tender, raw. “I’m home.”

Clarice’s eyes glistened. She traced her fingers along the sharp line of his jaw as she whispered, voice thick with emotion, “Welcome home, my… champion.”

A month later, Austin and Brinley returned to Bleron after their whirlwind world tour.

That evening, they were curled up on the living room sofa, exchanging stories and laughter, when a sudden breaking news alert sliced through the soft murmur of the financial channel.

“Breaking news: In a special session at the City Hall of Bleron this morning, officials announced that Brennen Shaw has been appointed the new Mayor of Bleron.”

The camera cut to a face they both knew all too well. Brennen appeared on the screen in a sharply tailored suit, every line of it precise. His hair was immaculately styled, not a strand daring to fall out of place. His features were composed, almost severe, and his gaze carried a quiet intensity that commanded attention without effort. Seated at the long conference table, he didn’t merely occupy the space, he owned it.

Brinley shot upright from the sofa, eyes wide, disbelief written all over her face. “Brennen… he’s back?”

Austin leaned forward, equally stunned. He had known Brennen would return eventually, but never expected it like this, as the mayor of Bleron. Such a role wasn’t just handed out lightly. It was clear he had spent the years away honing himself, preparing for a place of leadership.

𝘔𝗼𝘴𝗍 𝗿𝘦a𝖽 𝘵𝗵𝗶s w𝘦𝖾𝘬 𝗼n 𝘨𝘢l𝗻𝘰vе𝘭𝗌.𝘤𝗈𝘮

Later that afternoon, a sleek black sedan eased into the driveway of Hillcrest Villa. The rear door swung open, and Brennen stepped out. His old military uniform was gone, replaced by a sharply tailored suit that gave him a new presence, mature, composed, and exuding an effortless authority.

The moment Brinley saw him, she rushed out of the house and threw herself into his embrace. “Brennen, you’re finally back!”

“Yeah, I’m back,” Brennen said, patting her back, a soft smile breaking through his usual sternness. “I’m not going anywhere this time.”

He explained how his overseas missions had concluded, and in recognition of his service, his superiors had arranged for his return to Bleron so he could be reunited with family.

Hearing the news, Felix and Clarice appeared soon after, holding their two children close, eager to join the celebration. The villa soon rang with laughter, chatter, and the warmth of a family finally together.

Only Adora lingered, peeking shyly from behind Brinley, her wide, curious eyes fixed on the unfamiliar man before her. She didn’t remember Brennen. After all, she had only been a few months old during their last encounter.

Brennen’s heart melted at the sight of his perfect little niece. He crouched low, extending a hand toward her. “Adora… I’m your uncle. Do you remember me?”

Adora blinked at him, considering. After a brief pause, she stepped forward in small, careful strides and placed her tiny hand into his open palm.

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