Hmmm.
“Well, I trust you to the ends of the earth, Wills, so if you think it’s a good idea, I’m on board. What do you two think?”
Alexis shrugs. “It could be the answer, but getting her there is going to be a challenge. Ludo?”
—They are strangers—
—Not to Willow, and we have faith in her—
He crosses his arms, looking mulish.
“What other choice do we have? She can’t grow up hidden in the tunnels down here.”
—I did—
Oh, my sweet giant.
—But I believe in your judgment, Nymph—
—Are you sure?—
He nods.
“OK, Wills. Let’s try and figure this out.”
“I’m on it,” she says. “You all have a world to save, leave the girl to me.”
“How did I get so lucky to have a best friend like you?” I ask.
“Yes. Thank you, Willow,” Alexis says, pulling me into his arms. I rest my head against his chest and a massive wave of weariness takes me over. I try to stifle my yawns but it’s basically impossible. “You need rest,pulu.”
“Not yet. There’s still so much to plan.”
—The gryphon is correct…sleep now. Tomorrow will bring problems that require a fresh mind—
I look up at my bestie. She looks wiped as well. “Go sleep, Wills. I’ll keep an eye on our baby.”
“No chance. I’ll run up and grab some pjs. We’ll squish in your little cot tonight. Gonna be cozy.”
—Tell your friend thank you. I will sleep in here and keep guard—
“You need to keep in hiding, Lu. What if there’s another search?”
—I’ll add another bolt to the door. No one will get through—
“I don’t want to leave but I must.” Alexis looks at me sadly. “I’ll feel better if Ludo stays with you. Get some sleep, and we’ll talk more tomorrow.”
I don’t fight them on this. We are all exhausted.
Alexis’s phone chirps. He takes it out, then groans.
“What now?”
“Crankshawe wants to see me in her office, now.”
“Trouble?”
“Administration bullshit more like,” he sighs. “Goodnight, pulu. Please sleep well.”
