The memory shifted again.
Ronan expected another scene from his life as Ren, as if the memories would alternate.
Instead, he found himself inside the Ashbourne estate again. This time directly in the hallways. The massive room stretched out before him, polished and pristine. Carved flame motifs that symbolized the Ashbourne family lined the walls. Expensive rugs were near every doorstep. Servants moved quietly through side passages, heads lowered not to offend anyone.
Young Ronan walked down the center, a thick book tucked under one arm.
His posture was too straight for a child. His expression was too composed. He looked like he was performing adulthood rather than living through childhood, even more so than other noble children.
Footsteps echoed behind him.
"Brother!"
Ronan turned.
Irene appeared from the other end of the hall.
She was much younger here, still unmistakably a child.
