Page 30 of Artemis

“What’s the continents?”

Artemis had to swallow down the overwhelming urge to giggle for no reason. She was happy to be with Alexander, to be teaching him something new. “A continent is a large land mass. Currently, we’re on the North American continent.”

“Why?”

“Why do you think?” Artemis turned the question around on him, refusing to fall into his trap.

“Because that’s where we left home from?”

“That’s right.”

“Are we going to stay here?”

“Not permanently. What would Elati do without us?”

Alexander nodded solemnly at that. “And I’d miss Damien and Hestia and Maddie and Gus and Lee.”

“But not Lyta and Atlanta?” Artemis asked, amused. “What about Luna?”

Alexander paused, head tilted to one side as he considered the question. “Them too.”

“Don’t worry, we’ll go home after this little adventure.”

“Good.” He opened his mouth and then closed it again.

Artemis met his eyes through the rearview mirror. “Ask.”

“Where are we going?” Alexander blurted out.

“I’m impressed that you waited this long to ask me. We’re going to the pier.”

“What’s a pier?”

This time Artemis did laugh. “It’s usually a place where ships dock. This one is special.”

“Why?”

“I think I’ll let you find that out for yourself. We’re almost there.”

A few minutes later, Artemis was parking and helping Alexander out of the car. He stared at the pier.

“What is that?” he asked, pointing.

“There are rides of all sorts at this pier. Some, you’ll be too little to go on. Others, we can go on together. There’s also lots of food. I think we should start by getting some street dogs and then riding the carousel. What do you think?”

Alexander nodded vigorously. “Then can we go on thebigwheel?”

“We’ll check the height requirements, but I’m sure you’ll be fine.”

Alexander chose a green horse on the carousel, gripping the pole in front of him with both hands. He cheered each time the horse rose in the air.

“Did you want to learn how to ride a real horse?” Artemis asked him afterward.

“I can’t ride Lati?” he asked, looking disappointed.

“No, sweetheart. Her back isn’t built to be ridden. But there’s a stable with horses and ponies on the outskirts of Purgatory, and you can learn to ride one, if you want.”

“Maybe.”

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