The next day passed in a blur of careful hands and watchful eyes. Whitney, Vanessa, and several of the female warriors barely left Ruby’s side, filling the air with chatter and gentle teasing, as if laughter itself might keep disaster at bay. When her legs felt too heavy to lift, they took turns massaging the ache from her calves, when she stood to use the bathroom, at least half of them rose with her, trailing behind like an overprotective honor guard.
It should have annoyed her. On any other day, it would have. But today, Ruby let it happen.
Ethan’s absence sat heavy in her chest, a quiet, constant throb, and she needed the distraction more than she needed her pride. Their voices kept her grounded. Their warmth kept her from counting the hours too closely.
When night fell and her brea
