ch 73 Family (1700 words)

But my mother wasn't looking at her. Her blue eyes—filled with disbelief, hope, and something I couldn't quite place—were locked onto me.

I swallowed, forcing a small, nervous smile.

"…Mom."

She shuddered even more upon hearing my voice. Even Luna, looking at our mother with concern, instantly turned to face me. Her wide eyes sparkled like stars.

"Brother?" she whispered.

And then, without giving me a chance to react, she dashed toward me at full speed. Seeing her rushing at me while my mother remained frozen in shock, I quickly knelt and opened my arms.

Luna lunged at me, wrapping her tiny arms around my neck with all the strength her miniature body could muster. I caught her gently, holding her close.

"Brother… is it you?" she asked in a trembling voice.

I nodded, rubbing her back. "Yeah, Luna. It's me."