Ashetta
burning glances turning heads
I nod, the corner of my mouth ticking upward in a knowing way. “My line of work back in the day required all kinds of masks,” I admit, a trace of wry humor in my tone. “What is it you do for work?”The cider and shots have left a warmth in me that makes honesty easier, or maybe just harder to hold back. I tip my head toward him, studying the lines of his face beneath the mask. “I get it—Ludo—wanting not to be seen, but longing to be known.”
Something brushes against my hip right then, light and fleeting. It’s so familiar my heart gives a startled lurch—like the fleeting touch of a child’s hand—but when I glance down, there’s nothing. Just shadows and the sweep of my skirts. My jaw tightens briefly, and I dismiss it, shifting my focus back to him.
“I’ve met Frey before,” I say, my mouth quirking faintly. “An… interesting experience, to say the least. I’ve met a few gods, actually. As a hybrid, I’ve found they’re more accepting of my magic.” I pause, gaze dropping to the rim of my empty mug before lifting again. “I’m a follower of Mort. He changed my life a decade ago.”
stop and stare at the sea of smiles around you
