Chapter 56: From here on out

Twigs and pebbles crackled underneath his feet as he came over to us. I winced as he got closer. I was expecting for him to yell at me, for him to pour out his anger and disappointment. But instead, his arms wrapped around me tight until it seemed like I could not breath. Galen let loose a shaky exhale. "You are an idiot." 

My small laugh turned into a sob. I didn't even feel as though I was in real danger, and yet the worry they gave me made me almost think like them. That we nearly couldn't see each other again. 

Galen pulled back, his golden eyes shining with relief and warmth. He squeezed my shoulders gently, as if to reassure himself that I was truly here. 

Someone hit the back of my head, making me turn on my heels. I saw that Elvira had used her staff to do it. My former teacher was as beautiful as ever in spite of her severe features. She didn't look any older than the last I saw her, remaining to have that youthful aura to her.