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Raven decided the same way she decided most things—quickly, instinctively, and with her heart already halfway committed.
They needed a party.
Not a careless one. Not a loud one meant to forget the world outside the walls. But something gentle. Something human. A reminder that they were still people—not just survivors passing through each other's lives.
So the dining floor became a project.
Lights were strung along the beams. Old banners were shaken out, dusted off, repurposed. Tables were pushed together instead of apart. Music—soft, familiar—was tested through battered speakers.
As Raven moved through the space, directing her people, she felt something close to hope.
She needed approval, though. Not permission—she didn't ask for that—but understanding.
She spotted one of the newcomers heading toward the bunker and jogged to catch up.
"Hey!"
He turned, surprised. "Oh—hey. What's up?"
"Nothing special," Raven said, slowing beside him. "I just wanted to see if your group would be okay with a small party. Nothing big. Just... welcoming."
He hesitated. "I don't—"
"I know you might say no," Raven cut in, her voice softer now. "But I saw Beth when she saw Hershel. That kind of joy doesn't come around often. Maggie's her sister, but Beth hasn't been able to reconnect with that part of her memory yet."
She met his eyes, earnest. "Please. Let me give that to you all."
He studied her for a moment, then sighed. "Yeah. Okay. Go for it."
Relief loosened something in her chest.
As he turned to leave, Raven reached out, fingers brushing his sleeve. "Hey—would you help me decorate? I want to know what everyone likes."
He chuckled lightly. "Yeah. Sure. But I need to find Maggie first."
"She's working with my boyfriend," Raven said, already turning. "I'll show you."
They walked together.
And then Raven's world shattered.
Wyatt stood too close. Maggie stood closer.
Hands. Lips.
Her chest caved in.
She couldn't breathe. Couldn't think. Couldn't even scream.
She turned sharply—and that was when she saw Glenn.
His face said everything she couldn't say aloud.
Raven grabbed his hand without asking and pulled him away, fast, before either of them broke completely.
She led him to Rick's house, gently pushing him toward the porch. "Sit. Please."
