Page 172 of Blood of Hercules
To be fair, there was still blood seeping out of it, so that might not be helping.
Also, if I had to classify my mental state, it would be—depressed, with a smidge (immense amount) of anxiety.
“You’re probably just a little messed up in the head.” Nyx sighed heavily. “Honestly—I always thought it was weird that you could talk to me.”
I reeled back. “And you didn’t say anything?”
Nyx tightened around my neck. “Well, I’m saying something now.”
“Nine years later,” I said indignantly.
The table shook from the force of the thrusts occurring in the adjacent booth, and the siren sobbed harder on my lap.
I grimaced as I patted her head.
This is getting weird.
“Uh—madam, do you need anything?” I asked the siren. “Water, a shirt? Pants?”
Watery pastel eyes peered up at me. “I’m good. Thank you for caring about me. You’re so gracious and beautiful.”
I made a face.
“What is she saying to you?” Nyx asked curiously.
“That I’m—gracious, and beautiful?”
“Hmmm,” Nyx said skeptically. “Are yousureyou can understand her?”
I slapped at her, but she dodged. “I’m pretty sure,” I said. “I know when someone is telling me I’m beautiful—it doesn’t happen often.”
“Is this a cry for help?” Nyx asked. “Are you not coping well?”
I didn’t respond.
A smile split my cheeks wide.
This was really happening.
Laughter exploded from my lips.
I’m not powerless.
Tears of happiness streamed down my face.
I will never be powerless ever again. I know what I am.
Happiness shimmered inside my soul, and I hugged Nyx tight, kissing her invisible head as she struggled.
This was just the beginning.
“Want to play a game?” the siren asked as she abruptly lifted off my lap, still crying as she spoke, which was very relatable.
I opened my mouth to say no, then remembered I had nothing to lose. I was here, and I was powerful.
“Sure,” I said, and we grinned at each other. “I’ll play.”
The pianist missed a key.
