Chapter 22

　　Both Celeste and Kent stared at the bush, wondering who or what was hiding in there.

　　The bush was short. Nothing dangerous could be lurking in there, right? Besides, the party was held in this secluded part of the forest. No one was expected to bother the wolves here.

　　But the rustling of leaves made them both tense up.

　　Just as Celeste was hesitating about whether she should toss something into the bush, a boy jumped out and dashed at Celeste. Startled, Celeste tried to step back, but her eyes recognized the boy first.

　　Kent quickly stepped forward to protect her, but she held his arm and shook her head with a smile on her face. She was a little surprised by the man's gesture, though. "Thanks. But don't worry. The boy means no harm."

　　Before Kent could raise any questions, the boy's short legs ate up the distance between them. Then he threw his arms around Celeste's waist in a tight embrace, almost knocking her over.

　　"Cel! I missed you so much!" The boy looked up, his big a