Chapter 43. Change Is in the Air

Carla had never had a truly peaceful morning since she arrived at the settlement.  

There was always something going on, and if not going on, there was always something to make waves in the roaring sea that was her anxiety.  

That Saturday morning began with the birds chirping outside Mark's bedroom window, a soft breeze flowing in and caressing her skin as she cuddled up to his warmth, creating the optimal temperature for what she considered perfect for sleeping in. 

With no school to rush off to and her usual worries tucked away by the blanket of sleep, she almost believed that it would be her first good—and hopefully of many— good morning.

That is until she felt Mark startle violently beneath her and jump to a seat, tossing aside the covers alongside what little hope she had of peace.

"What is it?" she asked, so used to the chaos that she found herself following him out of their bedroom without hesitation. 

The fra