(Matilda's POV):
I'm a bit reluctant to go back after the incidents, but I decide it's for the good of everyone. Besides, I may be able to find out why I experienced what I did.
"Here it is," Sophie exclaims.
I look up at the Wonka factory to find that it's much larger than last time.
"Where did she disappear to?" I ask Sophie.
Briefly she takes in the scenery to recall exactly where.
"There," she answers pointing to an opening near the gates.
"It's supposed to lead to the side of the factory."
Even though it's surprisingly warm for an evening in late September, chills run up my spine.
"Alright. You two go on and find her," I tell Sophie and James.
"Why us?" James asks.
"You're the ones who want to prove things."
"Touché."
"What about you and Charlie?" Sophie asks worried.
"We'll stay here and keep a look out. Should you get into any trouble, make as much noise as possible and we'll come help."
Sophie nods and makes her way through the opening.
"Sophie?" I say.
She turns back to me.
"Yeah?"
"Tell Dani I said hi and you be careful."
She gives me a smile.
"I will."
Then in a moment, she's swallowed by the shadow that the fence casts.
"Be careful, James."
"Are you actually going to come help?" he asks.
"Yeah. Why?"
"You said that you wouldn't be saving our rear ends ever again."
"Not unless your lives were at stake."
"Does that include being turned into squirrels?"
"Well, if the chances of that happening were even remotely possible," I scoff.
"But-"
"You'll be fine. I'll see you as a human."
He gives a swift nod and, in a moment, follows Sophie into the swallowing shadow.
"And now," I say as Charlie and I sit down on the ground.
"We wait."