The walk back to the dorms was slower than usual, not just because of my arm, but because Everest seemed in absolutely no hurry whatsoever to be heading back and leave Alba behind in Healing House. He walked beside me, his usual quiet demeanor intact, but there was an unmistakable shift in his step, a kind of lightness that hadn’t been there before. And honestly... I liked this hopping, happy Everest.
“You’re in a very good mood,” I noted as we made our way through the halls.
“I’m always in a good mood,” he replied.
I gave him a look.
“You are one of the least convincing liars I’ve ever met in my whole life.”
He exhaled quietly, something close to amusement slipping through.
“I’m just… less tired than usual.”
“Mmhm.”
I let that sit for a moment.
That actually made two of u
