Chapter 62

~ Elara’s POV

Rufus sat there deep in thought, a frown creasing his forehead. I nudged him, but he didn't even flinch. The forest was getting colder, and I shivered. I really wanted to find someplace warm, but I couldn't just abandon Rufus in the woods, especially since I had no idea what dangers might lurk on the way back home, not after what I encountered earlier. I was stuck between a rock and a hard place; freezing with Rufus or braving the forest alone.

I shouted his name again, "Rufus! Rufus!", but it was like I was talking to a wall. Finally, I gave his hand a good shake. That did it. He jumped, startled, and his eyes flew open. He looked awful, like someone had kicked his puppy.

"What's wrong?" he mumbled, finally noticing my worried expression.

“I should be the one asking such questions,” I said to him.

"What's wrong with you?" I shot back, looking so concerned.

"You look like you lost your best friend,” I added.

He mumbled something that sounded like "fine," but it w