Rachel heard the sounds coming from the living room and frowned.
"Who's here?"
I hesitated before answering awkwardly, "Finnick is here."
"Your husband?" Rachel's expression immediately changed. "He came here to look for you? Then why is he outside?"
I felt even more embarrassed.
"He… he's cleaning the house for me."
Rachel went silent.
For a moment she simply stared at me. Then her eyes softened slightly, though worry still lingered there.
"I don't want to nag you anymore," she said quietly. "But you'd better make sure you know what you're doing."
Of course I understood what she meant.
I moved closer and gently held her hands.
"Don't worry, Mom," I said softly. "I know what I'm doing."
I wasn't just saying that to comfort her.
I was reminding myself.
I cannot fall in love with him.
I won't allow that to happen.
Rachel looked directly into my eyes.
"I believe you," she said sincerely.
I forced a small smile and left the room.
