Maddy's children exchanged amused, slightly concerned looks, while Maddy continued bouncing on her heels, pointing at the ceiling and the walls, completely losing herself in her over the top excitement.
"I've made my decision… this will be our HOME! Yes, our very home! You don't know how much I've always imagined living inside a turtle shell, like they carry it with them, and then can just retreat inside, hide, and be protected all day. Oh gosh, that thought always flashes to me whenever… whenever… my… husband beat me…"
Her excitement stumbled into an unintended memory. She shook her head vigorously, trying desperately to wipe it away, though the past clung stubbornly.
"But no! No dwelling on that now. The past is past and besides… I have a living family now—one that is happy, loyal, and terrifyingly strong.'
She turned back to them, her smile broadening until it felt like it could light the cavern better than her magic ever could.
