Chapter 156: Finding Mother

AARYN

He'd intended to join Elreth for dinner. But by the time he and Reth returned from their walk, it was late, and he was near home. He hadn't been able to shake off the guilt about his mother, so he farewelled Reth and headed to the Tree House.

It seemed strange to knock on his own door, but he hoped Eadhye would answer and he could check on his mother without her knowing, if it was a bad idea for him to come in. He just wanted to know that she was okay—and wanted her to know that he cared.

But when Eadhy saw him at the door, she beamed and opened it wide. "I had planned to come looking for you in the morning!" she said brightly. "Come in and say hello, she's doing well today."

Aaryn stepped in cautiously to find his mother on the couch, sitting up, but with  blanket over her lap. She seemed genuinely pleased to see him, but also kept looking at Eadhye as if she wasn't sure whether to speak or not.