***
A week later, the only thing keeping me from rescinding my vow was Daniel's proud smile every time I came home bruised and aching.
Every day after dropping Daniel off at school, I headed straight to OTS headquarters, where Lucian, the sadistic bastard, devised innovative new ways to make me hate my life.
Today, however, was different. It was the day of Daniel's long-awaited school field trip—a special wilderness expedition for his biology observation group. He'd left that morning practically vibrating with excitement, vowing to earn the coveted 'Courage Badge.'
"You'll get it, my brave scout," I'd said, smoothing his hair. "Just remember to listen to your guides and stick with your buddy."
"I will, Mom! And I'm gonna bring back something awesome for my observation log!" His enthus
