Page 90 of Twist of Fate

“Yep.”

“It should not be near anything people intend to eat.”

“That’s a widely shared opinion.”

Luke climbed out before Connal could ask why humans continued displaying it. Connal followed, scanning the vehicles, the windows, and the people moving through the entrance. No one appeared to be watching for them, although several stared once Asterius unfolded himself from the conveyance.

Luke noticed too. “Try not to cluster.”

“We are walking through the same door,” Keir said.

“Then cluster less threateningly.”

Asterius smiled at a human who had stopped beside a nearby vehicle. The man hurried away.

“That was not less threatening,” Luke said.

“I was being friendly.”

“You showed him all your teeth.”

“They are excellent teeth.”

Luke shook his head and entered the restaurant.

Warm air carrying the scents of salt, hot oil, and cooked meat met them inside. Voices competed with the chiming of machines behind the counter. Children darted between tables while their parents attempted to contain them with varying degrees of success.

Connal stayed close to Luke as the brothers spread themselves through the ordering area. Zer remained nearest the door, Avaneel completely concealed beneath his hair. Keir studied the room without appearing to do so. Asterius stared up at the illuminated menu with open fascination.

“They place the meat between bread,” Asterius said.

“Yes,” Luke replied.

“With cheese.”

“If you want it.”

“And sauces.”

“Also optional.”

Asterius considered the possibilities. “Humans may possess greater wisdom than I believed.”

Tyson moved beside him. “Please decide before you attempt to order the entire menu.”

“I require sufficient information.”

“You have been staring at pictures for several minutes.”

“They raise questions.”

Luke stepped to the counter when the human behind it called him forward. He ordered several boxes of chicken nuggets and more fried potatoes than Connal believed even Gomez and the pixies could consume.

“And one Happy Meal,” Luke added.

Connal looked at him. “For Gomez?”

“Fred.”