Chapter 137

• I close the car door behind us, breathing in the crisp morning air, and pause for a moment to absorb the scene unfolding before me. The sight still amazes me—humans and Beasts working side by side, not just tolerating one another, but cooperating with real purpose. Months ago, this would have been unthinkable. Now, it’s a reality we’re building piece by piece.
• Near the front door of the shop, I spot Ruth standing at the center of a small group, her arms moving with energy as she directs a few volunteers. Her face is lit with focus and joy, her voice confident as she points to a stack of crates, assigning each to its rightful place.
• It suits her, this leadership role. In a world where so many of us were never allowed to dream, Ruth has taken to the opportunity like she was born for it. There’s a strength in her now that wasn’t there before—earned, not given.