Shady

“I think he cares about him,” Ky shot back, turning out onto the second floor hall. “And I think he’s able to focus on that.”

She hesitated for a long moment, not sure. He didn’t seem to be the type to want to be alone. But he probably wouldn’t want her . “…I’m going to ...

“But he’s all alone if I don’t.” But she stopped walking, faltering.

“Why?”

“Tomhas is more important.”

Ky turned back down the hall and started for the room. She couldn’t leave him to struggle alone.

Ky stopped walking, looking at him. “He’s upset?”

Ky shrugged. “…Apparently she’s not very kind.”

Ky glanced over at him irritably. Nothing about this was funny. “One of his friends. Viol.”

Ky glanced back over her shoulder but didn’t acknowledge him, speeding up a tiny bit. Should she go try to comfort Tomhas? Or should she just stay out of this ...

Ky turned back for the stairs, continuing her escape.

“Yes ma’am.” Ky dipped her head as well. “You as well.”

“Yes ma’am.” Ky nodded. “I’ll pass along your greeting.”

“Yes ma’am.” Ky nodded quickly. “…could you remind me of your name please?”

“She’s wonderful, ma’am… I think she’s upstairs if you want to talk to her.” And not Ky. Hopefully.