“Now’s the time to speak up, because we’re almost there.” Raven’s tone is still laced with irritation.

Azzmi’s gaze softens, and she starts explaining every detail about what happened with her mother and the bear. As she talks, Raven feels his heart break a little. He can tell it’s not easy for her, especially as her voice trembles. He even wants to reach for her hand, but he stops himself, thinking it might be too much.

He remembers how he’d assumed she cried on their wedding ...