Chapter 173: The Next Trial
Lyria's POV
I stood slowly from the bed, smoothing my hands lightly against the front of my dress.
"That is t-true," I admitted softly. "I s-should return before anyone notices."
Patricia watched me carefully.
Then her hands moved.
'Do not worry about me.'
I immediately made a face at her.
"That is entirely impossible," I informed her. "I shall worry regardless of what y-you say."
That earned a silent laugh from her.
Then she signed again.
'May the Goddess walk beside you, Lyria.'
Something tightened faintly in my chest at that.
I stepped forward before I could think too deeply about it and wrapped my arms around her once more.
Patricia held me gently.
It was strange.
I had not realised until recently how starved I had been for simple affection. For warmth freely given without expectation attached to it.
When I finally stepped back, I offered her a small smile.
