Chapter 325: Civilized discussion

"Pardon?" Seth's question was directed at Mia, but his eyes were on Ford.

The younger man met his stare with one of his own, determined to not back down this time. If Mia was ready to confront her father, Ford would support that. He stacked his latest creation on the small pile, ignoring the blisters.

"I can't sleep, Papa, at least, not well," Mia insisted.

"Did you try counting sheep?" Daniel asked innocently. Ford blinked. He'd forgotten about the others present. This conversation might grow quickly awkward.

"Mia," Seth's voice held both a warning and pleading.

"Let the girl speak," Grandpa said. "We need her to lead us out of this forest, if this forest has an 'out'."

"I'm tired. Exhausted, even. I can't keep up this whole thing indefinitely the way things are going." Mia complained.

"What can we do to help?" Anaisa asked gently. "We'll do whatever you need."

"No we won't," Seth snapped, shocking his sister in law.