Into the Lion's Den

"Was it necessary that I came with you?" I grumbled, walking step by step with Alessio.

I acted like I didn't want to, like I could have been anywhere but here.

But deep down, I knew I loved it.

It's been weeks since I stepped out to civilization, and it was like a breath of fresh air.

"You say that, but you can barely contain your excitement," Alessio pointed out and I stuck my tongue out.

I