I saw him pacing, he would soon wear right through the floor. The tensions were running high. As we sat there listening to the testimony of Maharet, every time they mention that I or Merida are considered, “rogues” I sensed his anger level skyrocket. My poor sire was going to lose it. I squeezed Cherry’s hand, she squeezed back as she looked towards Va’lis. On my other side was Rich, my husband who gave me a supportive smile then followed my gaze. He too worried for Va’lis, he had grown to really like him. I read his thoughts, I was developing my gifts with Cherry’s help. His panic about allowing the marriage of Rich and I made me so sad. I— I had to go comfort him. I came up behind him and hugged him tight. My emotions pouring out of me. Did he know that allowing me to have Rich in my life was the single best thing he had ever done for me? Rich balanced me, Rich propelled me to master my thirst, Rich provided security and stability, and most importantly Rich assured me that my life, the plans for it, could certainly continue onward… that yes some things were different but him and I could still have our life together. What a gift that was! It was not a mistake at all!!!
He wiped away my tears, and with it my fears, and walked me back over to my seat. He lightly patted Rich’s shoulder but moved past us to Cherry. He needed her. Hell the Razele family needed her! She was our mother, our protector, our teacher when Va’lis could not. She really is the other half of him. Ohhh, Va’lis how I hope you can make it right and stay right. She needs you too, you know!