So, Maya, do you want to know the big secret? What you really are?""Of course she does," Daniel said."Good." Moreno flashed a smile. "Then this is where we begin negotiations. You two lead me back to that cabin and let me call my associates. We'll take you someplace safe and tell you everything you need to know.""Um, right," I said. "We've escaped a helicopter crash, trekked through the forest all night, and captured you. But that was just for fun. Time to stop goofing off and turn ourselves in.""Do your parents let you get away with talking to adults like that?""Only when those adults treat me like an idiot.
In this passage from Kelley Armstrong's "The Calling," Daniel and Maya engage in a conversation with a character named Moreno, who hints at holding crucial information about Maya's identity. Moreno proposes a deal where they lead him back to a cabin so he can contact his associates and provide the answers they seek. The tension is palpable as the group has just survived a helicopter crash and navigated through the wilderness, yet humor and sarcasm still permeate their dialogue.
Maya's response to Moreno's authoritative tone is defiant, indicating her frustration with being treated as though she lacks agency. The exchange highlights a blend of danger and levity, showcasing Maya's unwillingness to submit easily to the situation. This interplay suggests that the journey ahead is not only about uncovering secrets but also navigating power dynamics between the characters.
