The rain continued to pour, masking the sound of Maya's sobs. Scarlett held her tightly, whispering soothing words while stroking her hair. The others stood around her, silent but present, offering their quiet support.
After what felt like an eternity, Maya's cries began to lessen. She pulled back slightly, her face red and puffy. Scarlett handed her a napkin from her pack, and Maya wiped her face, her movements slow and tentative.
For a while, no one spoke. The rain filled the silence, its rhythmic patter on the leaves and earth the only sound. Finally, Kato broke the quiet, his arms crossed as he leaned against a tree.
"Are we staying here all night, or are we moving on?" he asked, his tone as indifferent as ever.
Larry shot him a sharp look. "Are you blind? we'll only move when Maya is ready," he said firmly, his eyes still glistening with unshed tears.
