Chapter 223
Daphne
"But why all the questions, my dear?" I ask lightly, flicking the last bit of green across the canvas.
Her answer is soft, almost too soft. "No reason." But her voice carries too much emotion for it to mean nothing.
Hmmmn? Something is up.
I set the brush aside and wipe my fingers, then push back from the easel. "Well, let's go."
She blinks, startled. "Are you not going to paint some more?"
"Yeah, tomorrow. Maybe next week," I say, stretching lazily like a cat. "For this piece, I still need to… well, find inspiration." My eyes slide toward her deliberately.
Her ears twitch. I smile.
"Besides," I continue, stepping closer, "weren't you bored?"
Before she can protest, I take her hands and gently pull her to her feet. She's so light it's like lifting a feather. Her wide eyes follow me, nervous and confused, as always.
"No," she says quickly, voice small but firm.
