Benedict I didn’t mean for my simple response to Sloane’s question to cause her to fall into those deep thoughts she has where she pushes everyone around her out of her mental space. But somehow, I did. “Sloane,” I say, watching her as her frown deepens. “Sloane!” I say more sharply, watching her jump at my tone. “Don’t over think my comment. You always underestimate yourself. You are amazing. You are always prepared for anything. I wasn’t trying to make you doubt yourself. I wanted you to realize that you, just like me, are always prepared for what comes at us.” “I’m not sure I am, though,” she murmurs as we walk to the overhang. “What aren’t you prepared for?” I ask her. “I don’t know. How would I know that I’m not prepared until something comes at me that I’m not prepared for?” she

