The Moon Shines when the Sun Isn't Around

Part 40

Raina was officially back on her feet, a miracle in itself after everything she had been through. Her energy was returning, and she was eager to reclaim her independence. But King, still haunted by fear and the memory of what they had endured, was not ready to let go.

One sunny afternoon, they stood in the driveway, where King's armored electric truck gleamed under the sun. Raina beamed at him, her excitement palpable.

Raina: "Come on, King! I want to drive today. It's been ages!"

King crossed his arms, shaking his head with a firm expression. "No way. Not after everything. I'll drive you. It's safer this way."

Raina rolled her eyes, exasperated. "I'm perfectly fine now! The doctors cleared me. It's just a short trip to the store. I can handle it."

King took a deep breath, trying to keep his frustration in check. "It's not about your ability. It's about what happened before. You don't understand how scary it was for me to see you like that."

She stepped closer, her gaze steady. "I do understand, King. I felt helpless, too. But shutting me out like this isn't going to help either of us. I need to feel normal again."

King softened, but his resolve remained firm. "I get that, Raina, but it's not just about feeling normal. It's about keeping you safe. I don't want to take any risks."

Raina's frustration peaked. "You can't keep me in a bubble forever! I want to be able to make my own choices again."

He felt the tension rising between them. "This isn't about control; it's about love. I just lost you once, and I can't go through that again. Just let me drive you today."

Raina sighed, rubbing her temples as if trying to ease the tension. "Fine, you win. But you can't be my chauffeur forever. This is my life too."

King opened the passenger door of the truck, gesturing for her to get in. "Deal. But just for today."

As she climbed into the truck, Raina shot him a sideways glance. "You know, you really need to learn how to let go a little. I appreciate your concern, but it feels like you're treating me like a child."

King started the engine, keeping his eyes on the road as they pulled out of the driveway. "And I appreciate your desire for freedom, but I don't think you understand how hard this has been for me. I can't help but worry."

Raina turned her body to face him, her expression softening. "I know it's been tough for you, King. But you need to trust me. I'm not the same person I was before the accident. I'm stronger now."

He glanced at her, searching her eyes for any hint of doubt. "I just don't want to see you hurt again. Not like that."

"You're not going to lose me again," Raina said firmly, her tone leaving no room for argument. "You have to trust that I can take care of myself."

King nodded, his grip tightening on the steering wheel. "I'll try. But it's going to take time."

As they pulled into the parking lot of the store, Raina glanced out the window, her expression brightening. "See? This isn't so bad. I get to spend time with you and get things done."

King chuckled, shaking his head. "You know you could have just asked me to come with you instead of wanting to drive. I like spending time with you."

Raina smiled back, her eyes twinkling with mischief. "Maybe I just wanted to give you a little challenge. It's good for you to loosen up."

King parked the truck and turned to face her. "Challenge accepted. But just so you know, I'll still be driving whenever I feel it's necessary."

She smirked, leaning back in her seat. "Fine, but you better let me take the wheel sometimes. I'll keep a good track record, I promise!"