Wheeling Gull Isle healing

Strand turned her face away from Padma when the girl apologized. “I don’t want your pity,” she said through gritted teeth. She regretted saying something so mean, but she was still trying to act tough despite her complete breakdown three seconds ago. Her ears perked up at the girl’s next words though. “You… you’d stay here with me?” she asked, looking up at her again. Despite herself, her tail wagged behind her. “I would love—I mean…” She cleared her throat and tired to act tough. “That would be cool. Yeah. You could stay here if you wanted.” She glanced away from the girl and then peeked back at her, trying to gauge her reaction.

’Besides then you don’t have to worry about anymore crazy people! I’ll protect you!’

Strand snorted. “You, protect me? Nah. I’m older than you! I’ll protect you!” She gave Padma a big grin to show that she was joking around.