Chapter 1348
Vines had woven a living arch behind them, sealing the path. The ground glittered faintly beneath their feet, tiny blossoms blooming with each step. In the distance, the ocean roared louder - not with anger, but like applause.
Susan came up beside him, kissed his shoulder, and said, "We need to mark this place."
He nodded. "We’ll build something."
Rose smirked, brushing hair from her face. "Or grow something. We don’t build anymore. We plant. "
They walked back toward the camp slowly, letting their fingers trail through the air, touching leaves, tracing bark, whispering to vines that responded by curling gently toward them. The jungle knew them now. It didn’t resist. It welcomed.
By the time they reached their treehouse compound, even that looked changed.
The platforms were intact, but the vines that held them had thickened. Flowers Jude had never seen before curled up the ropes. The thatched roofs gleamed with dew that glowed faintly even in the sun. The hammock swung slowly on its own, and their fire pit now smoldered with green-blue flame.
Sophie stepped into the center and turned in a slow circle. "It’s listening. Everything. All at once."
Emma kissed her cheek. "Then let’s show it we’re grateful."