This presence made my spine tingle with cold dread!
Watson Thompson had lost her usual cheerful demeanor, now radiating an icy detachment.
"Mason Raymond?!"
The instant Watson spotted me, she bolted forward.
She threw herself against my chest, whispering, "I always knew you'd survive..."
I stroked Watson's hair gently, grinning, "Hey, don't sweat it. Takes more than that to put me down."
Jasper Thompson watched from nearby and let out a breath, "This kid isn't as attached to me anymore. Guess that's what happens when children mature and find their own path, right?"
I looked Watson over completely. She'd grown taller since our last meeting and seemed far more grown-up.
"Watson, that mask... You still have it safe, right?" I asked carefully.
"Obviously!" Watson shot back.
She seized my hand and declared, "Follow me."
I trailed behind her into her bedroom.
Next, she pulled the mask from a secured little drawer.
