“Yes,” she replies. “I can sense it, the way he feels about you. It’s quite curious indeed.”
“I don’t know what you’re talking about. There isn’t anything between us.”
“And why is that, I wonder?” she questions, head tilting to the side.
“Because I am not going to be alive much longer. I’m dying,” I add.
“Due to the bond with Taranus.”
“How do you know all of this?”
She beams at me. So ethereal. So beautiful. “While I may choose to stay out of things, I ensure I know plenty.”
“Makes sense, I suppose.” Though I’m not entirely sure I do. Swallowing hard, I try to stand. “I should get back now.”
“Yes, you should,” she agrees then pushes to her feet. As I struggle, she reaches down to grip my arm. The skin itches where she’s touched, but at least, I’m on my feet again. “Be sure to tell Rafferty I say hello. It really has been quite some time since we’ve seen each other. I am looking forward to the day our paths cross once more.” She waves then dematerializes, disappearing from view.
For a moment, I remain where I am, staring at the space she’d once occupied. Something about her—I shake my head. She’s gone now, so I can decide just how damn weird she is later. Turning toward the direction I came from, I start walking.
And hope that I’m not too far off course.