Rafael's Point of View
The first rays of morning cut across my room, and I am already awake. Ever since last night I have felt restless. My body thrums with a mix of determination and regret. Last night plays over in my head on repeat, my temper, my words, Octavia’s expression when I pushed too far. I clenched my fists instead of keeping calm, and it cost me.
But not today. Today I will prove I am more than just another hothead.
I swing my legs out of bed and pull on a clean shirt, tugging it down over my chest, then I lace up my boots with sharper focus than necessary. If we are really stepping up to shadow the patrols, if danger is at our borders, I need to be the one showing strength and control.
On my way down the hall, the smell of coffee drifts from the cafeteria. I hesitate, the
