#Chapter 42: Ignorance and Bliss

Carol’s POV As we spend the night at my family's place, the weight of the recent events still lingers. My parents welcome us back into the house with nervous smiles. After we explain the results of our excursion, they thank us -- although some unease still remains. We try to push it aside, if only for a little while. We gather around the kitchen table, surrounded by the comforting warmth of home, and pull out an old board game. We’re all clearly hoping to ease our nerves with some lighthearted competition. We enjoy the night as much as we can. It’s nice to catch up with my parents, and knowing that the strangers are dealt with for now does provide some relief. My parents are obviously grateful. I’m grateful, too, that I was able to do something. Everything that has been hitting Aiden and I has made me feel powerless, so this is definitely a boost to my general optimism. Things aren’t all perfect, though. Aiden is quiet for the rest of the night. He still smiles politely and says all