THE POWER OF RITA ROGOURAU

{" Mountains know secrets we need to learn. That might take time, it might be hard, but if you just hold on long enough, you will find the strength to rise"}

We both stirred before the first light of dawn, the cool mountain air brushing against our skin. I felt the warmth of Rita beside me, her steady breathing a quiet reminder of the bond we had forged. As I shifted slightly, she murmured something in her sleep, her fingers instinctively tightening around mine.

Before I could fully gather my thoughts, Ralph strode in without hesitation. He paused for a beat, his sharp eyes taking in the way we were still bundled together, limbs tangled in a quiet intimacy. Instead of surprise, a knowing smirk spread across his face.

"Well, well," he drawled, crossing his arms over his chest. "I see you two had a comfortable night."