The truck stopped several times. Many of the people in the vehicle with Rain were Crowleys, new to the camp, so the truck drove well past the point of the central settlement, to deliver multiple people to each house.

It meant, at least, that Rain had transportation direct to his place. Two guys got out with him. They were Crowley jackasses—actual titles they wore with pride.

“Rain,” Mama Mathers said. “Stop.”

He stopped in his tracks. The two jackasses gave him a look. He waved them on.

The woman’s hand, spectral as it was, felt real as it touched Rain’s hair. He flinched, but she persisted. He remained where he was, head turned away, neck stiff.

“This was good,” Mama Mathers said. “I’ll reward you.”

He didn’t move a muscle.

“Enjoy your evening, my soldier. Tomorrow, we show them we’re not to be trifled with.”

Rain turned his head, to look for clarification, but she was gone. There was a distant sound, like a flock of birds taking off.

He’d slept on the train, but this whole scene was so surreal. She’d—

He stopped, bracing himself for her appearance. For the physical contact.

She hadn’t appeared. The sound remained. A thunderous flapping, far away.

Mama Mathers, he thought.

There was only the sound.

She’d freed him? For only tonight?

Adrenaline coursed through him. His eyes were wide as he strode forward. He had—not opportunity, but something. He walked at a speed that was only a run, passing the jackasses, pushing his way into his aunt and uncle’s house.

His aunt and uncle were in the living room, organizing sleeping arrangements for five boys and girls, ages ranging from sixteen to mid-twenties. Soldiers, like Rain had once been. Crowleys. Allie was at the kitchen table, with others her age sitting around her. Adult women were cooking.

He was free, or almost free, and he was surrounded by Fallen. What was he supposed to do?

His aunt spotted him. Her expression was unreadable, and she shooed him off.

His room. He’d go there, he’d regroup. If it hadn’t been commandeered to give others a place to sleep. He had some spare things in his room. Weapons, traps. He took the stairs two at a time.

Jay’s sister was in the hallway. Nell. The house was crowded, but the upstairs had been kept quiet.

Nell stared at Rain as she put headphones on. The stare persisted as he walked past her, her head moving to keep him in her sight. He was uncomfortably reminded of Love Lost. This wasn’t hostility, but—

Threatening? Ominous?

He opened the door to his room, and let himself in.

The room was occupied.

Rain swallowed, hard. “Erin.”

Erin sat on his bed. She didn’t make eye contact, her fingers picking at the blanket she’d put over her lap.

She was wearing only a silk nightgown.