READER SHOUT OUT: This chapter is dedicated to DespinyaNY (again!) for being the most mind-bogglingly supportive reader and friend. I am truly lost for words (and that is saying something!) Your generosity of spirit, and sharing is an example to me. Thank you for offering so much love in this world.
*****
GAR
Rika had seemed so tense—but in a sad way. As if she worried. He was touched by her concern, and her words about worrying if the humans learned of his and Elreth's existence… it made him hope that she was beginning to care. Really care. For him.
But then everyone looked up as Hannah and Marryk came in, and Rika's entire countenance changed. While Elreth greeted them and the other disformed who'd walked in behind them, telling them what the meeting was about, Rika's face turned from shock, to confusion, to horror.
