Jake locked eyes with Will for a solemn moment before swearing,
"As soon as we're done with this Ordeal, I swear I'll sort all this mess out. None of you should have to lose your spark like this. And honestly, just be yourselves around me, even when things suck or the news is bad. I can handle it, I'm not made of glass."
Before any awkwardness could settle in and one of them started tripping over apologies or forcing a smile, he threw out as he resumed walking toward his camp, "So... why don't you tell me whose teeth I need to make them swallow when we get back..."
His companions' faces lit up instantly, though their eyes held a hint of cold bitterness. It was a topic they didn't have to force themselves to keep the conversation flowing.
As they walked, Jake listened intently, only occasionally interrupting to ask for details. Gradually, his expression darkened as a clearer picture formed in his mind of the enemies and traitors he needed to eliminate upon his return.
