whatever comes, let it come
what stays, let it stay
Ignoring Zariah, Loren smiled genuinely at Beatrix and Jace, though there was a bit of a sad edge to it, especially when he saw the sorrow on his half-sister’s face. ”Goodbye, you two. I’ll miss you terribly while you stay with Zariah and Neron.” The summoner’s tone was kind and gentle. ”And you’re always welcome to visit and stay with me.” Only then did he lift his eyes to look at his cousin. He smiled at Zariah too, though it was much smaller, and much sadder. ”You’re still my family, even if you are rejecting me as you claim I once rejected you.” Taking a deep, shuddering breath, when he spoke next, his voice was firm. ”I wish you happiness, Zariah. I really do, though I don’t think you’ll find it on this path.” Clasping his hands behind his back, he watched her depart. Then he bit his lip before calling after her. ”If you change your mind, you know where to find me.”
His features stilled again. ”And remember. You’re only head of the family until someone bests you.” Although Loren’s voice came out without a hint of anger, intimidation, or challenge, it was also absent of all fear. Confidence rang from his voice and his posture.
what goes, let go
LOREN
