Riley's POV
The distance between Caleb and me feels like an open wound. Every instinct screams that we should be side by side when everything goes to hell, but this plan demands separation.
I despise every second of this arrangement. The thought of my friends risking their lives for me again makes my stomach churn with guilt. If someone gets injured because of me... 'Stop that right now. We all care about you and want this resolved. Don't pretend you wouldn't charge headfirst into danger if one of us needed help.' Caleb's voice cuts through my spiraling thoughts, firm and reassuring. 'I love you too.' I respond, though my mind keeps conjuring worst-case scenarios.
His words make sense, but logic doesn't ease the knot of anxiety in my chest. My priorities are crystal clear: get everyone through this alive and bring our children home safely.
