Medusa gave me another playful jab, then turned to face the doors. “Where’s Paris?”
“In my bed.”
She went completely still. “Was that wise?”
“We slept,” I retorted sharply. “His idea. It helped him sleep.”
“Okay.”
I went to say more, but she interjected.
“I’m not telling you what to do, sugar. I like the elf, he’s a cutie. But at the same time, you need to be careful. Nothing changes overnight. You’re both experiencing a surge of emotion not even the most level-headed person could deal with.”
“Are you saying I’m not level-headed?” I countered.
“Yep. Especially lately.”
Should I be insulted?
“Sorry if that stings,” she added, every ‘s’ a hiss. “You can’t deny it, though.”
Correct. But it didn’t make it any less insulting.
“I’m going back inside,” I said.
A rumbling stopped me, the glacial blue streak of the waterborne frostbrood passing the island. It quickly vanished beneath the waves.
“What is that thing doing?” Medusa scowled at the ocean.
“It might be time to hunt that thing,” I answered, striding back into the bedroom.
Medusa meant well, and she only had my best interests at heart. But did she have to be so insulting about my mental state?
I knew I wasn’t exactly in the best shape mentally right now. Still, I didn’t need to be reminded of it.
Stop whining!
She followed me. “I know you’re annoyed with me, but I’m worried. Really worried.”
Without looking at her, I responded with, “I have business to attend to.”
“Please don’t be mad.”
“I’ll get over it,” I said, pausing by the door. “Keep an eye on him. Get him food and drink when he wakes, please. I’ll arrange more clothing for him.”
“I really am sorry for upsetting you,” she answered.
The delicate regret in her voice softened me. She spoke from a place of love. A true sage, a true friend.
I couldn’t leave under such a dark cloud. So I went to her, surprising both her and myself by pulling her into a hug.
“What’s this for?” she questioned in a squeak.
“Thank you,” I said. “For everything.”
“You’re welcome.”
I ended the hug, cupping her chin. “Never change.”
