Ch 23

Sleep last night had been hard for Raven. Rage had been her last hope to be complete emotionally, but she had proven she couldn't be trusted. In her heart she knew this but she wanted it so badly that it hurt. Even worse she had let Rage use her boyfriend's Beast for nothing, leaving scars on him that made Raven angry.

"Azarath Metrion Zinthos," she sighed as she rose her teacup that was sitting on the roof and drank the warm liquid.

It was early morning, and she was tired. Falling asleep meant facing her nightmares once again. She couldn't stand it and knew she needed some kind of distraction to get her mind off the depressing thoughts she was having lately. When she heard footsteps coming towards her, she knew who it was and smiled.

"Garfield."

"Nothing gets passed you Rae."

"What are you doing up this early?"

"I've been doing a lot of thinking."

"Well that can't be good," she teased.

"I care about you a lot. I know the past few months haven't been easy for you with your mating season and trying to join yourself with your emotions."

"What's the point you're trying to make Gar?"

"I think you need to take some time off away from the team to relax and focus on yourself. There hasn't been a lot of crime recently, and we can handle Jump City when you're gone. I just wish I could go with you, but I used up my time with the Doom Patrol."

"Where would I go?" asked Raven.

"Well I happen to be talking with your Aunt and Uncle and they're going on this health and wellness cruise next week. It's a month long cruise where instructors from all over the world share their ways of life on how they stay happy and health. There's mediation, yoga, pilates, and other programs you can participate in. I'm sure Violet and Haven can fill you in on the rest. So?" he smiled, "what do you say? I've all ready gone over it with Robin and the rest of the team. They think it's a good idea for you."

She held him close, burring her face in his chest, her arms went around his waist. "I think you're very good for me Garfield. Thank you."

"You're welcome Rae. Just take care of yourself, and you know I'll be here waiting for you when you get back," he said as he kissed his forehead. "I love you so much Rae Bear," he said but was surprised when she didn't protest to the name, only holding him tighter.

Violet and Haven had come over to the tower later in the day to go over the trip with Raven. She felt excited just thinking about it. She knew she would miss her friends and boyfriend dearly, but it was only for a month.

"So, what do you think Raven?" asked Violet.

"Sounds nice," said Raven, smiling briefly.

"You're very lucky to have such great friends that care about your well being," said Haven.

"Especially that boyfriend of yours," smiled Violet.

Raven blushed and the window cracked. She sighed. "Sorry I—

"It's ok sweetie. We understand," said Violet. "I can't imagine how hard it is for you to not fully express how you feel."

"I got use to it with time. It became a part of me, and I learned to accept it. Then I come here and I get more than I ever bargained for."

"I'm sure Arella would be pleased to see the young woman you're growing into," said Violet.

"Well it looks like we have to get back," said Haven as he looked down at his phone. "Now that your dad's figured out texting, he won't leave me alone. Plus he really likes Violet's cooking and it's her day to cook."

"You ever wish they got their own place so you two can be alone?" asked Raven.

"All the time but it's kind of another tradition in our family that's been passed down," said Violet.

"See you next week Raven," said Haven as Raven saw them out the door. She waved and closed the door.

"Well I hope everyone's in the mood for Chinese because that's what I picked up for lunch," said Cy as he realized Raven was the only one in the room. "Hey Raven, can you tell everyone that lunch is here?"

"Sure I wasn't doing anything."

"Great!" he said enthusiastically as she rolled her eyes, disappearing down the hall.

Raven sensed the other three Titans in the gym. 'Of course Starfire's watching Robin workout as usual but why is—?' She was surprised to see Robin and Beast boy sparring while Starfire watched in glee. Watching the spar closely, she could sense BB holding back on purpose. 'I guess he doesn't want to bruise Robin's ego again,' she smiled. 'I know you could have beaten him Gar.' The match was over. Robin won, and BB looked over to Raven's all knowing eyes and smiled.

"Cyborg got Chinese food so—Robin and Starfire rushed out of the room. BB waited for her.