“Quit being so pessimistic, or I’d really be discouraged.”

Frank snorted but stood up. “Come on already. I have nothing else to do anyway!”

“You’re the best brat ever!”

Sylvie strode up and pecked him on the cheek, smiling cheerfully and unabashedly. “I have a huge reward waiting after we’re done.”

Frank smiled but said nothing, since he knew very well what it was.

Nonetheless, they were in Shanton two hours later, passing the police line and arriving at the dig site soon enough.

The dig team had been waiting for a while, their scowls quickly fading as they appeared hopeful to see Frank.