Chapter 12. Live A Little

"I've been invited to a birthday party." Dante informs me, as I hand him a ridiculously heavy hammer. "I was thinking you could be my plus one-- if you're up for it?" Perching back down on the rusty toolbox, I smile and do an inward dance of joy. I thought Dante would still be pissed with my failed attempt to follow him yesterday but I guess he's much more forgiving than I thought. Although it did take a few hours for him to return to his usual, talkative self after breakfast. Looks like I won't be attempting another secret mission for a long time. "Earth to Aly? Unless you'd rather stay here...I understand." Dante looks over his shoulder, stopping his woodwork to address me. Detecting the uneasiness in his tone, I stammer out a rapid reply. "Of-- course!" I wince. Do I sound too enthusiastic? "I mean, I'd love to, that'd be great." "Phew." With a heavy exhale, Dante slumps dramatically. "I was beginning to think I was pushing my luck