Phoenix Maplewood dancing to the beat of a midnight raga

he had said something wrong--a shadow fell over her face, and she struggled for words. his ears folded back in silent alarm, but before he could apologize, she cut in again, explaining that she had to return home to her sister. unsettled, he nodded, the smile fading slowly as she spoke.

"yes, it was a pleasure to meet you as well. safe travels home." his voice was pleasant if monotonous, but before she could turn and leave, he added, "indra? i'm sorry if. . .well, if i've said something to offend you. i didn't mean to presume."

not all stories were the same. some who had a family hated it; some who didn't were perfectly happy without. he hadn't considered the possibility that perhaps indra had wanted more than a legacy from her parents, or perhaps she was not satisfied with the one they'd left behind. he longed for it so much from his own absent family that it clouded his judgment, his good sense.

"you're welcome to visit again, if you want," adi said, extending an olive branch her way.