As Raven stopped the engine, he saw Zerra poking out her hip, crossing her arms, and tapping her foot impatiently. He sighed lightly and unbuckled his seatbelt, knowing this conversation wouldn’t be easy.

“Babe,” he said as he stepped out of the car and shut the door.

“Don’t call me that,” she shot back, pursing her lips, still tapping her foot in frustration.

Raven shook his head slightly, already anticipating her response. “I knew you’d say something like that.”

“If you ...