Chapter 216

** Paige’s POV ** I feel it before Ronnie says the words, a subtle pull in my chest, threads tightening between me and each of them, different textures, different temperatures. “You are Spirit,” Ronnie says to me, his voice steady. “Not light alone. Not life alone. Spirit is will, choice, meaning. You connect what is, what was, and what will be.” My stomach warms in response, a soft answering thrum that makes my breath hitch. “And they,” Ronnie continues, turning slightly, “are the elements that allow Spirit to exist in the physical world.” Ryder stiffens. Parker’s hand slides instinctively to my back. Remy goes very still. Callen tilts his head. “Oh. This should be good.” Ronnie gestures to Ryder first. “Earth.” Ryder blinks. “Come again?” “Earth doesn’t rush,” Ronnie says. “It holds. It endures. It protects territory, people and legacy. Ryder, when Paige doubted herself, you grounded her. When she was ready, you were the constant she orbited back to. The land answered her because you