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Phin cleared his throat. "Let's go inside, shall we?" He led us into the tent, cluttered with maps and papers on a large table.

My name appeared frequently on the documents, and I noticed Teddy giving me a peculiar look from across the table.

His was curious or maybe concerned, but I couldn't tell which.

The air inside the tent was thick with the scent of damp earth and pine, the bayou's signature perfume.

Thankfully, it masked the scent that Ceci was still admitting for some reason.

While I tried to focus on the cluttered maps, I couldn't help but be distracted by Teddy and Cassy.

"So, you're telling me you actually ride these around?" Cassy pointed to a picture of an airboat.

"All the time, Cher. Don't tell me you're scared of a little swamp water?" Teddy teased.

Cassy tossed her head back, laughing. "No, not the water. Maybe just of the gators that come with it!"

After watching Phin and Gerald review the information, it dawned on me. "You were assigned to watch me."

"Okay, ye