He hugged her back, his whole body relaxing as he held her close, his hands trembling. “I thought I’d never see you again... are you okay?”
His hand cupped the back of her head and he shook his head, his brow furrowed. “I missed you too, Cal. Did they hurt you?”
She looked up at him gently. "No.. I wasn't hurt or kept in a cage. Ben made sure I was okay, he.." she frowned at the thought of him," he taught me to use my magic and he's the reason I escaped."
His whole face grew sharper and he raised one eyebrow. “Ben... the faerie? Benedict? The one who kidnapped you?”
She looked distressed. "He's not bad, it's just.. The human kingdom is really suffering because of us and their king. Their king is really mean.."
His face softened and he shook his head, letting her go. “You’re clearly a little confused,” he said gently. “You should sleep...”
She took his hands. "I'm serious, Puck. Magyck isn't being equally distributed! We're getting way more than them.."
His face may have hardened a little and he shook his head again. “They’ve brainwashed you, Cal,” he said gently. “They do this kind of thing all the time. Just try to relax...”
She looked like she might start crying. "No they didn't, Puck. I'm telling the truth. Their people are suffering."
He frowned, looking exhausted himself. “Hey,” he said gently, brushing her hair back in a terribly familiar gesture. “It’s alright. Let’s go lie down, okay? Just take a breather.”
He watched her. He looked exhausted, dark circles under his eyes as he considered her. “You can stay in the room for the night,” he told her. “I imagine they’re going to have some questions tomorrow morning.”
She watched him, her expression relieved to see him, but worried. She leaned forward, hugging him again.
