When they reached the cabin, Emma stayed quiet for most of the day. Her brother, on the other hand, seemed quite happy; he had discovered the firewood axe and was fully engaged in chopping the meat. With each successful swing, he proudly displayed his newfound strength, his biceps captivating him.

"See, Emma? told you it would be easier this way," he muttered as he chopped away, "God, I'm famished."

"Good for you," she murmured, her appetite diminished by his display of strength and the sight of blood. Ethan didn't look her way, but as she prepared the fire to help with the cooking, she watched him silently. They sat down...