CHAPTER NINETEEN
The RelicsJohn and Julien sat on the sofa, opposite the teens on a facing couch. John kept touching Julien's face – the body that contained his wife Unna.
“Rougher than I remember,” said John, referring to Julien's stubble.
“The River gives us no choice.” Julien held up his arms. “I haven't been a man in centuries. It's a lot less work. No menstruating, so that's nice.”
Katie laughed. Ariana looked embarrassed, but finally said, “Umm, I know you two have a lot to catch up on, but could we…?”
“Of course. You are right, my dear.” said Julien. “I promised answers. I owe that to you most, my Pentoss.”
“Everyone deserves the truth.” John squeezed Julien's hand. “Why didn't you come back to me?”
“I couldn't, my love. When I died, I thought only of you – getting back to y
