I don’t even make it into the house.

That sounds like Mack has kicked me out or refused to let me in, but that couldn’t be further from the truth since he’s the one leading me by the hand away from it.

“Mack, what are—”

“No questions,” he interrupts me as he continues to lead us through the forest.

“What about the bag? Can I ask about that?” I ask, my eyes going to the rucksack he has on his back.

“You mean the one that smells like it has food in it?” he asks ...