The Red String Between Us: Part III Eternal Thread

第21章 Farewells and Flights

      The air carried a chill that didn't quite match the warmth inside Claire's beach home. The night had been long—laughter, stories, tears, and the surreal glow of everything that had happened still lingered in Eden's chest. But now, it was time to say goodbye.

Suitcases lined the front hall, the polished wood echoing with footsteps as family and friends gathered one last time. Eden felt a tug at her heart as she hugged each person, trying to etch every face into her memory before she left.

Her father clasped her hands tightly, his voice low but steady. "You've always been my strong girl, Eden. And now... you're starting something new. I couldn't be prouder."

Her mother kissed both her cheeks. "Take care of each other. That's all that matters."

Kenji's parents were equally warm—his mother smoothing Eden's hair back like she'd always belonged in their family, his father pulling her into a firm embrace with a rare, approving smile. Even Kenji's siblings surrounded her with hugs.

But the hardest goodbye came when Ethan stepped forward. His Navy uniform seemed to make him taller, his presence somehow larger than life, even standing quietly with his bag slung over his shoulder.

Eden's breath caught as she wrapped her arms around him, burying her face against his chest. "I can't believe you came all this way," she whispered, her voice breaking.

Ethan held her tight, his tone low but steady. "There was never a chance I'd miss this. You're my sister. I had to see this for myself. Stay in touch, i'm a call away." Pulling back, his eyes met hers, sharp and protective. "He's got big shoes to fill—taking care of you. But..." He glanced at Kenji, then extended his hand. "I believe you'll do right by her."

Kenji clasped Ethan's hand firmly, their silent exchange speaking louder than any words. "Always," Kenji promised.

Ethan gave one last nod, then pulled Eden in for another hug, this one lingering. "Don't forget where you came from, Eden. And write me this time—letters, not just quick texts."

"I will," she whispered, eyes damp as she watched him step away, the sight of him retreating already tugging at her heart.

Moments later, Mia tugged at Eden's sleeve, her small suitcase in hand. "We'll miss everyone," she said softly, "but... it feels like time to go home."

Eden smiled at her, brushing a strand of hair behind Mia's ear. "You're right. Time to go home."

Together, the three of them—Eden, Kenji, and Mia—slipped into the waiting car, their family waving from the steps of the house. As the car pulled away, Eden leaned against the window, watching until the figures blurred into the distance.

By the time they reached the private jet, the weight of the moment pressed down on her. Not sadness exactly—but something bittersweet. A chapter closing, another opening.

Inside the plane, as they settled into their seats, Kenji reached over, threading his fingers with hers. "Ready?" he asked quietly.

Eden exhaled, glancing at Mia curled up beside her with a book, then back at him. "As ready as I'll ever be."

As the engines roared to life and the California coastline faded beneath them, Eden let her head rest against Kenji's shoulder. Somewhere ahead, Hokkaido waited, along with everything new and unknown.

And for the first time in a long time, she felt at peace with not having all the answers.