The warmth of the flames and the gentle crackling of burning wood provide a comforting backdrop. Mireya, with the kitten nestled in her lap, sits close to Rania. Cael joins them, his expression thoughtful.
Rania watches the flames dance, her mind drifting back to their recent brushes with death. She sighs, the memories of her past mingling with the present danger.
Cael, sensing her contemplation, breaks the silence. “You’ve been quiet since we got back. What’s on your mind?”
Rania turns to him, her gaze thoughtful. “Just thinking about everything we’ve been through. It all feels… heavy sometimes.”
Cael nods, understanding. “I know what you mean. I’ve been carrying some of that weight, too.”
Rania looks at him. “Like what?”
He takes a deep breath, his eyes reflecting the firelight. “Before all this, I was a combat medic. My last mission was one of the toughest. We were on a supply run in a conflict zone. The enemy ambushed us, and many of my comrades were injured. I did everything I could, but… it wasn’t enough.”
He pauses, the weight of his memories clear in his eyes. “During the chaos, I was hit. My team suffered because of my carelessness. Being here, with you and Mireya, it’s given me a new sense of purpose and a chance to make a difference again.”
Rania listens intently, her heart aching for him. “You’ve done so much for us, Cael. Your skills have saved countless lives and will save countless more.”
Cael offers a small smile, appreciating her words. “Thank you, Rania. That means a lot.”
Mireya, sensing the gravity of the conversation, looks up at Rania. “What about you? What was your last mission like?”
Rania sighs, her mind drifting back to that fateful day. “I was leading a training mission in a remote area. The outbreak reached us and everything fell apart so quickly. We tried to defend our position, but it was hopeless.”
She pauses, the pain of the memories clear in her eyes. “I lost good people that day. Friends, comrades. I’ve carried that with me ever since. I made a promise to myself to protect those in need in their memory. To make sure more of us survive.”
Mireya reaches out, her small hand gripping Rania’s. “You’re the best protector, Rania. We’re safe because of you.”
Rania’s heart overflows with emotion. “Thank you, Mireya. You give me strength.”
The fire crackles softly, the night air cool around them. Rania and Cael exchange a glance, a shared understanding passing between them. They’ve both endured so much, yet here they are, finding solace in each other’s presence.
They sit in silence for a while, each lost in their thoughts. Rania looks into the fire, feeling the warmth and safety of the moment.
Mireya snuggles closer to Rania, eyelids drooping. “I’m sleepy,” she murmurs.
Rania wraps an arm around her. “Get some rest, sweetheart. We’re safe here.”
Mireya nods, her eyes closing as she drifts off to sleep. The kitten curled up beside her.
As the flames die down, Rania leans back, feeling a sense of peace.
