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“Yes.”

“Great. We’re stuck in another prison,” she huffed, sliding down the white wall across from Takeshi. She stretched her legs,the satisfying cracks and pops echoing back to her.

Takeshi didn’t respond, just kept methodically rolling the blade between his fingertips.

How he managed to not cut himself was one of life’s greatest mysteries.

“Were you really out here all night?” she asked. “You didn’t sleep at all?”

“I had to make sure no one was going to sneak in and attack.”

She blinked, unable to contain her next question.

“And what would you have done if that happened?”

The atmosphere shifted, and Takeshi slowly lifted his gaze, his dark eyes ensnaring hers.

“Whatever you think I’d do, I assure you it’d be far worse.”

Her next breath came faster while Takeshi stole glances at the door, as if he were hoping for a chance to put his blade to use.

“Do you think they’ll bring us some food?” Adan interrupted, plopping down next to her. “I’m starving and it’s late.”

“Late? We slept through the day?”

“You were tired.”

“And they haven’t returned our packs yet?”

“No,” Takeshi answered grimly, tightening his grip on the blade.

“But look at the town.” Adan gestured around him. “They have to feed these people somehow. We even have tins of water in our kitchen, so there must be a well nearby.”

“Well, that’s good. At least we have water.” She tried to sound hopeful.

“Or,” Brock interjected from around the corner, “they’re trying to lull us into a false sense of security because they’re cannibals and plan on eating us.”

They all shot him sidelong glares.

“Dude.” Adan grimaced. “Really?”

“I don’t think I’m hungry anymore.” Her lips twisted as shefolded her arms around her knees.

If anyone stared at her limbs too long, she’d find a way to bolt over the walls.

Brock shrugged and moved to sit beside her, but Takeshi shifted his long legs, blocking him.

Brock rolled his eyes. “Territorial much?”

“Don’t know what you mean. I’m just stretching my legs.” Takeshi’s tone was forebodingly serene as he continued twirling the blade.

The silence extended, and Khalani nearly jumped as the front door creaked open.

The man with long hair cascading down his back stepped inside, a hard scowl embedded on his face.

“The Chief wants you to join us for dinner. But you all stink and I can’t have you bringing that stench into our hall.” His nose wrinkled. “Take a shower and change into the clothes left for you.” He gestured to a bundle of beige clothes on the couch

“A shower?” Her eyes widened.