ALIYA'S POV
I didn't feel like sleeping. Raquel's apartment was modest but cozy, filled with the comforting scent of vanilla and lavender. I sank into the worn but inviting couch, exhaustion finally catching up with me. Raquel handed me a cup of tea, her eyes filled with concern.
“Drink this,” Raquel said softly. “It’ll help calm your nerves.”
I nodded gratefully, taking a sip of the warm tea. The familiar taste brought a small measure of comfort, but my mind was still racing. I glanced around the room, noticing the small details that made it feel like home—the photos on the wall, the mismatched cushions, the stack of books on the coffee table.
“I can’t believe I’m really here,” I said, my voice barely above a whisper. “It feels like a dream.”
Raquel sat down beside me, her expression
