Jioni stared at the floor, but when she looked up, she saw Emmitt.
He read determination. Emmitt stood up and stuck out his hand.
Jioni couldn’t help but think he was so dramatic in how he moved—she took his hand regardless.
“I hate to take the risk, but I hate City Two even more,” Emmitt said. “If you know how to get to Outergen, I’d love to journey there with you.”
Jioni’s eyes pierced through him, smiling yet unconvinced.
“Still not sold? There’s no need to worry, I’ve still got it.”
“Got what?” Jioni asked.
“It. The skills I’ve acquired in my past.” He cracked his knuckles. “The skills that will get us out of City Two and into Outergen. Guaranteed.”
Jioni smiled and looked away—despite already wanting to, she could sense the confirmation bias within her—she put her hands in her pockets and looked back at Emmitt: his determination was infectious. The closer she looked, the more she could tell he had no fear; he stood straight with burning optimism; his excitement rubbed off on her, and Jioni felt invincible as well.
