บท 34: A Small, Warm Feeling - III

Malfrid nodded and she could see his shoulders sagging in relief.

"That's good then." He nodded and held his hand out for hers to be given.

Almost on its own, her hand landed in his and was covered by his other hand on top of hers.

"It will take some time but you will be reunited with your beast soon." He patted her hand, "Don't worry, yes?"

Jade nodded. Why would she worry? If it came back, good for her, and if it did not, she could continue living her life as she was doing in the present.

Malfrid's thumb made circles on her hand through feathery touches. He did not look at her face again, rather, just focusing his attention on her hands as his thumb continued its tracing.

She wondered how someone so powerful could be so gentle with her. What ounce of strength was he using? Perhaps only a bit of it, because if he were to use a quarter, she would end up with a broken palm.

"Do you remember why we came here?"

"Hm?" She looked up from their joined hands. "What?"