-Raya-
The moment I stepped inside the house, I felt the soft hush of nighttime settle over me. The hallway lights were dimmed. Carla was probably already in bed, the kids tucked in, the quiet ticking of the living room clock the only sound in the silence.
I headed upstairs with slow, quiet steps, my limbs still loose and tired from the solo practice and the… detour. I didn’t stop by the kitchen or peek into Alec’s room. I just went straight to mine, closing the door behind me with a gentle click.
I didn’t bother turning on the main lights—just the small lamp on the dresser, casting a soft golden hue over the room. It felt cozy. Safe.
I pulled off my jeans and hoodie, swapping them for a loose shirt and cotton shorts. My hair went up in a bun, the elastic tugging gently against my scal
