Chapter 42

Lorelei I was preparing the pork we'd managed to obtain in our cave. The fresh vegetables I'd gathered earlier were piled beside me, their earthy scent filling the air. "I'm going to make some pork soup later and stir-fry these greens," I announced, sorting through the vegetables with practiced hands. Xander and Jinny exchanged a quick glance that didn't escape my notice. There was understanding in that look—they needed space to talk privately. "Why don't you check the traps we set yesterday?" I suggested softly. "See if we caught anything." "Sure thing," they replied in perfect unison, almost too eager to leave. They disappeared quickly, as if they'd been waiting for permission to step away. Susan started to follow them, her body language hesitant but determined. "Susan," I called suddenly, stopping her in her tracks. She turned back, confusion evident in her furrowed brow. "Lorelei? What is it?" I lowered my voice to ensure the microphones wouldn't pick up everything. "Let me give yo