Alina exhaled slowly, sinking into the smooth coral seat as she watched the babies. Platters of warm sea-friendly lunch were placed before each one, little shells filled with rice pearls, sea dishes arranged neatly, and slices of soft sea fruit shining with moisture. Each child dug in with hungry enthusiasm.
Boo, of course, was not eating.
He was performing.
He floated above the table with dramatic flair, his small hands lifted high as he retold the incident, except his version was filled with squeaks, gasps, wild gestures, and enough suspense to make Felix choke on his food.
"Teacher and I were surrounded by shadows. So many shadows. And I was glowing like a hero ghost," Boo declared proudly as he puffed out his tiny chest. "And teacher held me like this." He twisted mid-air, almost flipping upside down. "And I told her, 'Teacher, don't worry. Boo will protect you.'"
Rocky and Kelpie watched him with wide, sparkling eyes, believing every exaggerated word.
