“Can I ask how you got stuck in a half shift?”
When Zaria's face falls, sending a pang of guilt through my chest. “I’m sorry. I’m being nosey. You don’t have to tell me.”
Zaria's warm hand clasps mine, leading me to the sitting area where we settle on a comfortable sofa. Her gaze drifts toward the open window, her eyes fixed on the world beyond as she loses herself in contemplation. In the silence, it’s easier to note that theair holds a faint scent of rain, hinting at an impending storm. I remain still, patiently waiting for her thoughts to find their voice.
“Most shifters don’t shift until their sixteenth birthday. It’s a huge celebration. We all gather, and the whole family is there to help guide and protect the process.” She pauses, her eyes dropping to her lap where she twists her fingers. “It was supposed to be fun.”
I stretch out my arm and gently cover her hand with mine. With a blink, she gazes up at me.
“When I was thirteen, I wandered too far from my parents when we were out collecting berries.”
A feeling of unease snakes its way up my spine.
“I found myself in a tight spot when two Outcasts blocked my path and attempted to kidnap me. I was so terrified when they grabbed me that I couldn't control the shift that overtook me. By the time my parents arrived, it was too late. The damage had been done. I was left to cope with an early shift and no guidance. Leaving me stuck like this,” she says, gesturing to her ears.
I scoot closer and grab both her hands in mine. Now I know why she spoke with such disdain when she mentioned the Outcasts earlier.
“I’m sorry you went through this. Is there not a way to reverse it?”
Zaria shakes her head. “My parents tried everything, but nothing worked. It’s not all that bad, but it can be painful when the urge to shift comes and my body can’t do anything.”
The need to comfort her is overwhelming. Although she isn't yet a friend, I am tempted to hug her like I normally would, but instead squeeze her hands and offer a kind smile.
“I don’t know what to say except I think you look beautiful,” I answer honestly.
“Really?” Zaria blinks rapidly for a couple of seconds.
“Yes.”
“Are you two done with the sob stories yet?” Nix yawns, stretching her arms above her head. “Because I’m tired. I have spent the last two days awake trying to find you.”
“Now who is telling the sob story?” I interject, raising my eyebrow.
“Touché.” Nix grins, putting her pointy teeth on display.
Zaria stands, clearing her throat. “Your bath should be ready. Do you need assistance?”
Shock renders me speechless, my face slack with disbelief. “To bathe?”
“Yes.”
“Uhh, no, I can most surely do that on my own,” I reply, standing.
“Don’t drown,” Nix quips.
Peering over my shoulder, I meet her gaze. “I’ll do my best not to.”
I shut the bathroom door behind me and close my eyes, breathing in the scent of jasmine and lilies. I slowly strip off the clothes I have on and step into the bath. The warmth of the water wraps around me, soaking into my skin, warming every part of me. I immerse myself in the water, laying my head back against the side. As I close my eyes, I can feel the bubbles completely surrounding me, and the gentle pressure as they pop against my skin. I let my hands float out in front of me, skimming the water. The gentle back-and-forth motion soothes my muscles. I takemy time soaking in the bath. And despite my hair being difficult to manage, I am eventually able to smooth it out.
I walk back into the bedroom, and see Zaria's contemplative expression as she stares out the window.
“Where is Nix?” I ask, using the towel to dry my hair.
“I sent her to rest,” Zaria says. “She has been up for days.”
My gaze lingers on her, studying her every movement and expression. She seems worried. There’s an air of uncertainty around her.
“What’s wrong?”
