Despite the comfort of being home with Raven, the events of the past few days still weighed heavily on my mind. As much as I wanted to confide in her about Mary's warning and the ominous countdown, I knew I couldn't. Speaking about the countdown was forbidden, and I couldn't risk being punished by the system.
So instead, I forced myself to push aside my worries, at least for the time being. Raven didn't need to be burdened with my fears, not when there was nothing she could do about them.
We spent the evening together, cooking dinner and catching up on each other's day. Raven listened intently as I recounted the details of my mission, her expression filled with concern.
"I'm just glad you're home safe," she said, squeezing my hand reassuringly.
I smiled, grateful for her understanding. "Me too," I said, leaning in to press a kiss to her cheek.
