Chapter 434 Paper

The children watched in silence as Tristan walked toward the gates, his bags slung over his shoulders. 

The weight of his departure hung heavy in the air, pressing down on the little ones who had grown so attached to him. 

His footsteps were slow, hesitant, but he didn't turn back.

"Where are you going, Tristan?" one boy asked, his voice barely above a whisper.

"Big brother, please stay!" another pleaded.

"Don't leave, big brother Tristan!"

Their cries rang through the air, desperate and full of sorrow, but Tristan had no words to offer them. 

His heart ached, but his mind was made up. 

His relationship with Faith had grown complicated, tangled in emotions he could no longer ignore. 

Staying would only make things worse.

So, without another word, he walked away.

Minutes later, Riley descended the stairs, walking alongside Faith.