Shady

Ky smiled a little more at that and took a step backward toward the Keep. “It’s really good to see you again.”

Aeron hesitated, feeling like he should intervene somehow and yet not knowing what to do. Things were getting heated. Maybe he should just go.

“I’m sure it will be. And it’ll remind me of you.” She smiled. “So it’ll be my favorite.”

Aeron blinked; this was escalating quickly. “Now hold on, that’s not very live and let live. Of either of you.”

“It’s huge,” Ky said with a nod. “Gaius is still looking for a tanner to be sure it’s done right; don’t want anything happening to it. It’s too special to ...

Ky smiled at that, genuinely pleased. “I’m so glad you like it.” Maybe she just needed more hugs. She felt more secure now than she had in a while.

Aeron glanced between them, not quite sure what was happening but not planning to get in the middle of it.

She leaned in for another hug.

“Uh… not sure?” He wasn’t sure he knew what those were; not that he’d admit that.

“Okay.” She nodded, glancing back at the Keep wall. It was cold out here. Bitterly.

“Oh yeah. I think she grew up around here, not sure. I bet she’d know where all the little toads are.”

“Okay.” She nodded, glancing him over. “Do you need anything? Food? Medicine? Blankets?”

“Yep. She ain’t going nowhere.”

“No.” She shook her head. “I’m safe. Fine.”

“Okay.” She nodded. “That works.” She couldn’t imagine he’d be able to save that much time anyhow. By the time he got back to Zander then back again it’d only ...