18. The First Time

Aiken's suggestion to walk the grounds of the Lane Mansion came as breakfast was winding down. "It's a beautiful day. Might do you good to get some fresh air and sun," he said, looking between Penelope and me.

I considered the idea, my mind weighing the pros and cons. "I'm not sure if I'm up for a bunch of walking, but how about taking the side-by-side?" I proposed, thinking of the all-terrain vehicle parked in the garage. Getting out without exerting myself too much would be a good compromise.

Penelope raised an eyebrow, a hint of apprehension in her voice. "No, no, last time I was on that with you, you flipped it."

The last time we rode it together, the experience had been more thrilling than safe, a memory that brought both a smile and a wince.

"I promise, no flips this time," I reassured her. "I'm not exactly in shape for daredevil stunts anyway."

She still didn't look convinced.

I couldn't help but chuckle at the memory despite the seriousness of her concern. "I promise I won't