Chapter 148. The Company of Pain

Giovanna felt the warmth of Luc's hand as they followed the lion and she knew she had to make the most of that contact. Soon, she would never feel that warmth again. Memories of last night invaded her mind and Giovanna felt like crying. It was all that love and all that intensity that she was giving up.

They passed through the trees and arrived at a bonfire with several people sitting around it. Giovanna and Luc approached, and saw the only woman among the people. She was the color of jambo and had a headdress with different colors on it. She looked at them with disgust. Then she raised her hand and asked them to come closer.

"I hoped this day would never come." She said sulkily.

"Did you know..." Giovanna started to ask, but she interrupted her.

"I didn't know anything. People often make good decisions about themselves."

"That's a good decision. It's the only viable one."

"That'