Digging the past

/- Lewis -/

The sun was setting as Dianne and I arrived at the lodge, nestled deep in the heart of the forest surrounding the capital, just before the arena. The air was crisp with the promise of autumn, the leaves painting the landscape in shades of red and gold. As we stepped inside, the warmth of the fire greeted us, casting flickering shadows across the walls.

Dianne's eyes glinted with determination as she turned to me, her expression serious yet tender.

"Lewis, we need to talk," she said, her voice soft but firm.

I nodded, my heart pounding in my chest as I followed her into the cozy living room, the fire casting a warm glow over us. Sitting down beside her on the plush sofa, I braced myself for what was to come.

"Dianne, I..." I began, but she raised a hand to silence me, her gaze unwavering.

"No, Lewis. Let me speak first," she said, her voice gentle yet insistent.