Rayven's gaze fell upon the family portrait, the sight of the real Skylar Morrison—formerly known as Dylan—filling the void where his image once belonged.
A surge of bitter memories flooded Rayven, a reminder of the life he was denied, replaced by this very figure who should have perished in the previous reality had fate played its cruel hand.
That little bastard Dylan should have been dead after they swapped him and Rayven at birth!
"Mr. Rayven, welcome to our home," Shawn greeted him warmly, extending a handshake, which was followed by Claire's welcoming gesture.
"We've been waiting for your arrival," Claire chimed in, introducing Starla, their daughter, to Rayven. "This is our daughter, Starla."
Rayven accepted Starla's handshake with practiced grace, his smile widening into a veneer of warmth.