Page 63 of Tangled Fates

I had finally found some sort of relief.

I wondered if I was dead.

You’re not dead. But you’re badly injured.

Raven’s voice bounced around in the forefront of my mind.

I’m so tired.

I know you are, she said softly, but you have to fight. For me. Please. You have to fight, Hudson. I can’t do this without you.

I chuckled. You’ve always been stronger than you give yourself credit for.

The venom is racing through your veins. That’s why it hurts so much. You have to fight it. Just open your eyes for me, okay? Can you do that?

No, Raven, I can’t.

Just try.

I am trying.

Then, try harder!

The panic in her voice broke my heart. I remember the first time I ever laid eyes on you.

Her voice grew choked. Don’t do that. Don’t reminisce. We can do that once we all get back to my place and pop open a serious amount of wine.

I don’t drink wine.

Then, beer.

I chuckled before I coughed. I remember the day you came back to us, clear as crystal. The day you came in from Portland all hot and bothered and ready to piss on everything in your way. You’ve always been such a spitfire.

Her voice sounded so close, like it was right against my ear. Then, fight to see another day where I piss on everything, and you call me out on it. All right?

I can’t. I’m so tired.

She didn’t answer me back and panic gripped my soul. Had something happened to her? Had I been dreaming up her voice? Was I dead? Really, truly dead?

I didn’t want to be dead.

Raven?

She didn’t respond, and it worried me.

Raven, come back. How’s Dean? Levi? Are they all right?

And still, nothing.

Raven!

Then, her voice finally appeared. Hold on tight, okay? I’m about to get those eyes open.

What are you talking about? How are Dean and?—

“Levi!” I bellowed as my eyes flew open.

“Gods. He’s back, everyone! He’s back!”

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