“Where are you taking me?” I ask Thomas. He just smiles and winks.

I hate it when he does that.

He leads me through the winding streets of New York, and I begin to wonder if maybe, just maybe, he’s taking me there again.

The first time we went there it was an accident. He tried to explain to me, but it was impossible, and possibly the most beautiful place I’d ever seen.

I barely remember half of what he had said, it was so amazing.

How disappointed I am when I see a picnic set up near the edge of Central Park.

I try to cover it up.

“Oh, how nice,” I say, forcing a smile.

“Spent all afternoon setting it up,” he replies, leading me over.

After about an hour, I can’t take it anymore.

I set down my cheese sandwich stuffed with Cheetos.

“You know what I wanted, didn’t you?”

He sighs.

“Yes.”

I sit there, waiting for a response.

“That world… Thalia, it was an accident. You weren’t supposed to see that.”

I can see the worry in his eyes.

“Why not?” I can’t help but ask.

“Because that world isn't meant for you. The council… if they knew about this, they'd kill you.” He answers, running his hands through his blond hair.

I swallow.

“So… I'll just forget about it,” I respond sadly, picking at the edge of the blanket.

He sighs.

“There is one way, but I can't tell you until you're there. I don't think you want to take that-” “Yes.” I say quickly.

He shakes his head and stands.

“You’re risking everything doing this.”

“What can I say? I’m a risk taker.”

He opens his mouth as if to say something, but just shakes his head again.

I stand.

“Are you sure you want to do this?” He says nervously.

I reach for his hand.

“As long as I'm with you.”

He manages a weak smile, then we're gone.