There were moments Ray felt like he was in a strange, protective bubble, surrounded by walls he couldn't see but could sense all around him. While he would never say it aloud, he knew this was their way of wrapping him in their strength, forming a silent barrier between him and the dangers outside. His family was guarding secrets, yes, but he also knew that every secret they kept, every shadow they blocked, was for him and the fragile life growing within him.
Ray sighed, settling into this new rhythm, grateful yet knowing that this vigilance would only heighten as the days passed.
