Noctisardor Bypass What would I ever do with a rose?

He didn’t say anything in response. Druid cocked her head, thoughts still slowly swirling. She wondered what he’d say if she told him he knew the secret of the younger boys’ paternity. It felt wrong not to talk to Heda about it first, though, so she stayed mum.

Anselm’s next question tempted her to unzip her lips. She glanced at him, then turned to watch the puppies running around for a minute. Did he mean them? Or did he mean Rivenwood collectively? Either way, Druid realized she wasn’t necessarily the best person to field this line of inquiry.

I don’t know. I haven’t done a great job of it myself. I guess I’m still figuring it all out, she told him the truth. I guess spending quality time with them is a good place to start, though. For instance…

She hesitated. She couldn’t anticipate how Anselm might react if she brought up Etienne. Druid supposed he might get defensive. He wasn’t the only one who’d mishandled the gentle Oak, though.

I spent some time with Etienne yesterday. We talked for a while, then fished together. I hadn’t really made time just to hang out with him, without any particular reason. He’s pretty good company too.