Three hours inch by in the medical tent while my darlings tear into me like feral dogs, demanding impossible explanations. Though my knowledge of their world is encyclopedic, I stumble through my responses. I can’t stand the snarl of distrust on Cendrion’s face. Rexa’s one wrong answer away from attacking me. The worried gleam in Asher’s eyes makes my flesh crawl with shame.
See, this is why I avoid people. Interpersonal communication is too painful. By now, I’m ready to slither into a dark hole and hibernate for a decade, sleeping off the acidic adrenaline that courses through me.
“So, did I pass?” I ask, taking a stab at humor.
“I believe you mean no harm,” says Asher, speaking before anyone else has the chance. The tension melts from my muscles, and I flop against my pillows.
“She c
