Inside My Head (Silent Moment Series: Book 6)

Chapter 37

 As my mother's comforting hands fell away from my face, I turned toward Raven. The moment our eyes met, a current of unspoken understanding passed between us. The air seemed to hum with the intensity of emotions long held back, now surging to the surface. Raven's eyes, usually so full of strength and resolve, shimmered with a vulnerability that tugged at my heart. I stepped closer, the space between us charged with the shared history of our struggles, triumphs, and losses. Wrapping Raven in an embrace felt like finding an anchor in a stormy sea. Her initial stiffness melted away as she returned the hug, her arms wrapping around me with a grip that spoke of relief and a deep-seated fear of loss.

Drawing back slightly, I gazed into her eyes, finding in them a mirror of my own turmoil and love. Leaning in, our lips met in a kiss that was more than a mere touch — it was a communion of souls, a balm for the wounds we both bore. The kiss was a language of its own, speaking of passion, enduring love, and a shared resolve to face whatever lay ahead. It was a moment of sweetness amidst the bitterness of our situation, a reminder of what we were fighting for. Reluctantly parting from the kiss, I gently took Raven's hand in mine, our fingers intertwining naturally. The simple act was a reaffirmation of our bond, a silent pledge of mutual support and strength.

Together, hand in hand, we turned to Madi. Approaching her, I felt a surge of protectiveness. Placing my free hand over hers, I sought to convey reassurance and solidarity. Madi's hand felt small, yet it bore the weight of experiences far beyond her years. In that gentle touch, I endeavored to communicate a sense of security, to reassure her that she was not alone, that we stood with her against the darkness that threatened to engulf us all. The lab, with its sterile walls and clinical atmosphere, transformed in that moment into a haven of human connection. Surrounded by those I loved, each with their own fears and hopes, we found a moment of peace, a fleeting respite in our shared journey through turmoil and uncertainty.

Raven's voice was hesitant, filled with a sense of urgency. "It's the flame," she said, her tone laced with concern.

"Sheidheda," I murmured in response, a knot of worry forming in my stomach. The dark commander's influence was a looming threat we couldn't ignore.

Raven's expression grew more serious. "I'm working on the problem, but I need Becca's book," she explained, her eyes scanning the room as if visualizing the solution.

"Okay," I nodded, taking a deep, steadying breath. The situation was evolving rapidly, and we had to prioritize. "That can wait. We don't have much time. I need you to come with me. We have to lower the shield. Bellamy and Octavia are waiting with the Children of Gabriel."

"Kegs, I can't go with you," Raven replied, her voice tinged with regret. "If she wakes up again, Sheidheda will kill her."

I nodded again, understanding the gravity of her decision. "Okay, I'll use Ryker. The reactor's beneath the machine shop anyway—"

Raven cut me off, her tone firm. "No, Ryker turned Echo in. He won't help you."

"No," I agreed, the gears in my mind turning rapidly. "But Joseph can be very persuasive. Until then, promise me that you won't take any more bone marrow."

Jackson interjected with a weary sigh. "That's not a problem now. There's another nightblood in the family."

My heart sank at the implication. "Mom—"

"Shhh," she cooed softly, her voice a mixture of reassurance and resolve. "I won't let them take her."

Jackson's comment, "Like mother like son," was meant to lighten the mood, but it carried a weight of truth and history.

Overwhelmed with emotion, I finally let the words escape my lips. "I love you," I sighed, the phrase heavy with meaning.

Her smile was warm and filled with love. "I love you too, Kegan," she responded. "Now go save us all... again."