Chapter 20
Noah walked into the kitchen, freshly washed and dressed.
“You sure you’re okay?” Mason asked.
“Yeah, I told you I’m fine.” Noah’s voice was rough.
“Was thinking. Why don’t we take a hike? Nothing like what we planned. There’s a trail about thirty minutes away. It’ll only take a couple of hours. You think you’re up for that?”
“Yeah. Sounds great.”
Mason was grateful they’d get out of the house. The rooms were stifling, no doubt an effect of their impending talk. Mason hoped by doing it on neutral territory, Noah might feel less cornered.
Mason checked his backpack. He had the map, a compass, sunscreen, first aid kit, which he’d stored matches in, and a flashlight. He headed over to the pantry and grabbed some protein bars and water, handing Noah the same. They expected th
