Chapter 60: A Visit to the Heart of Jinstain

The streets of Jinstain were alive with activity as Conor and Parker drove toward the Celia’s Blessing Community Center. Despite the hustle and bustle of the city, Conor’s thoughts were miles away, lingering on the events of Velyki and the growing distance between him and Kerrigan.

As the SUV turned a corner, the faded murals of the run down community center came into view, pulling Conor back to the present.

Parker pulled the vehicle to a stop in front of the center, scanning the area out of habit before stepping out. Conor followed, taking in the sight of the children playing in the courtyard. Their laughter filled the air, a stark contrast to the heaviness Conor felt in his chest.

Jonathan, the director of the center, appeared at the entrance, a broad smile on his face. “Conor, welcome back! The kids have been asking about you non-stop.”

“It’s good to be back,” Conor replied, forcing a smile as he shook Jonathan’s hand. The warmth of the greeting eased some of his tension, but the t