Thirty-Four

Demetri P.O.V

We went to four stores full of hokey magic tricks, fake crystal balls, and idiotic board games. On each car ride, Seraphina fell asleep curled into a ball and leaning against the window on the other side of the vehicle. I eyed her with confusion and worry as she kept her distance. Her first nap, I had pulled her to me, wanting to provide her with a more comfortable resting place but she woke and pulled away as soon as her head hit my chest.

Each time I tried to touch her, she shied away and started to fiddle with whatever was within her reach. I was tense the entire trip, kicking myself for being careless enough to let her see my true form. Clearly, she wasn't ready to see the real me, and now I had to work twice as hard to earn back her affection.

The grinding of metal made me flinch as the car slowed. I felt my magic stir within me, urging me to get away from the area, but I wouldn't leave Seraphina. Through the window, I watched as we pulled up in front of a small sho