My tummy grumbles when we're inside. I haven't eaten anything since breakfast. Grandma said we could have lunch at the mall, but that was before I disappeared to Darrow.

I hope she's okay and not worrying too much about me.

I think we can keep each other safe. I can run real fast to get help, and I'm small and can fit small places. You're bigger and maybe have more Strong than me. But we can be a team.

It's a little scary to talk about this stuff. I used to think Old Nick was the only bad guy I would ever know. But I'm big now, and I know there are more bad guys in World. I want to stop them all.

Deal?

I hold my hand for a shake. (Leo taught me those.) My stomach rumbles a little, and I press down on it with my other hand, because this is important.