Page 39 of Raven's Dawn

Rain squeezed my hand, her warm brown eyes concerned. What’s the matter with you?

Forcing a smile, I raised a shoulder. Nothing.

I know you better than that. She circled her other hand around to stroke it up and down my arm. You’re upset about something.

I was worried about you.

But I’m fine, and you’re still upset.

I’m not upset.

She frowned. Don’t make me dig for it. Just talk to me.

A deep breath eased from my nostrils. I didn’t realize you were gone.

And I stayed back to explore before letting you guys know I was okay. A teasing smile. I guess we’re both horrible partners.

Chuckling, I traced my thumb along the back of hers. It’s not the same thing, mo stoirín.

No, it’s not. Mine was a conscious decision. Yours was an adrenaline-fueled brain fog.

Maybe I should be the one who’s offended.

She smirked. Maybe you should.

But I wasn’t. One of the many things I adored about Rain was her independence. She never really needed me, and that always made me want her more.

I was the opposite of her. Each time she went out without me, I worried for her until she returned. I came to her rescue whenever she called. Sometimes, even when she didn’t.

Rain still smiled at me, but it was a little sad. And then we grew up.

Playfully, I narrowed my gaze. I didn’t give you permission, lass.

And I didn’t give you permission the thousand times you dipped into my thoughts. Her smile only got bigger. Don’t like the taste of your own medicine, huh?

A quiet laugh escaped me.

That wasn’t healthy for you, Graham. Her tone in my mind was softer now. I’m grateful for it. I know it was always out of love. Not to mention obligation. Jake told you to take care of me before he died, and you did. But then we got older. We fell in love—real, adult love—and that wouldn’t be worth much if you were just my bodyguard.

It’s not that I think I should be. I just—I should have been paying attention. I should’ve at least realized.

It wouldn’t have done you any good. I’m glad you kept fighting. And I’m glad you trusted that I could handle this. Things went down like they were supposed to. I’m okay, you’re okay, Ezra’s okay, Warren’s okay.

I must have made a face at that, because confusion pinched her brows.

What was that for?

What was what for?

That look in your eyes when I mentioned Warren.

I didn’t have a look.

You did. She slowed her pace, glancing back at me. What happened?

We’re big boys. We’ll work it out.

She stopped. Spinning around, she said, “Wa?—”