The morning sun cast a warm glow as the group gathered around, exchanging greetings and savoring the smell of Rachel's cooking. Breakfast had become a comforting routine, a small respite amidst the unrest of their journey.
"Rachel, this omelet is delicious!" Jamie exclaimed, taking another bite with a satisfied grin.
Rachel blushed, pleased by the compliment. "I'm glad you all enjoy it. It's the least I can do."
As the girls finished their meal, they decided it was time for a much-needed bath. With limited resources, Lana's house provided them with the luxury of three bathrooms.
While the girls immersed themselves in the soothing water, enjoying a moment of tranquility, Carl and Drey engaged in a conversation in the living room.
Curiosity tinged Carl's voice as he asked Drey a question that had been lingering in his mind. "Drey, do you like any of the girls? I mean, romantically."
Drey's calm demeanor remained intact as he replied, "Well, they're all brave and beautiful. It's hard not to appreciate them in this harsh world."
Aegis, the ever-present companion in Drey's mind, emitted a robotic giggle, adding a touch of humor to the conversation.
Little did Drey know that the girls had already finished bathing and were quietly eavesdropping on the conversation, their cheeks turning a rosy hue at his compliment.
Feigning ignorance, the girls approached Carl and Drey, pretending to be unaware of their discussion. They asked about the boys' conversation, attempting to divert attention from their curious interests.
Carl and Drey chuckled, exchanging glances that spoke volumes. They decided to play along, discussing random topics to put the girls at ease.
Meanwhile, as the boys took their turn to freshen up, the girls gathered in their shared space, huddled together with a mixture of excitement and nervousness.
"I can't believe we all have a crush on Drey," Shauna confessed, her voice filled with a mix of giddiness and shyness.
Lana nodded, a mischievous smile playing on her lips. "Who would have thought? But can you blame us? He's brave, handsome, and caring."
Rachel blushed, her gaze fixed on the ground. "I thought I was the only one, but it seems like we're all in the same boat."
Jamie chimed in with a teasing tone, "Well, Drey better be prepared because we're going to have to figure out how to handle this situation. It could get interesting."
The girls burst into laughter, their worries momentarily forgotten as they shared this newfound secret treaty. Their crush on Drey had brought them closer, and they knew that their friendship would remain steadfast, regardless of romantic feelings.
With the renewed conclusion, they resolved to continue their trip, their hearts brimming with affection. The road ahead may be difficult, but together, they were stronger.
As the boys emerged from their baths, the girls greeted them with friendly smiles, their earlier conversation temporarily set aside.
"We should get going," Lana suggested, her voice filled with a sense of purpose. "There's still one more city to reach, and who knows what awaits us there."
Drey nodded, his eyes meeting each of the girls' gazes. "We'll face whatever comes our way, just like we always have. Together."
And with that, the group prepared to leave Lana's house, their steps guided by newfound feelings.