"I'll behave," I said, my tone sarcastic yet genuine. "But you have to do this, Isach. It's our only shot."

He nodded again. "I know. Okay." He stretched his back and straightened to his full height. "We'll get packed and leave today."

Relief swamped me, and the tension evaporated from my body, leaving my muscles weak and rubbery. I slouched down onto the couch, propped my elbows on my knees, and dropped my head into my hands.

Around me, people moved ...