Yes, I Am Crazy, [Nyarai]

[Brody Adelard]

Brody's silly grin went crooked as he looked at Nyarai, saw the pleasantness in her expression.

"It's hard not to like my little protector," he pointed out. It was a clear fact in his mind. But-- "I'm glad," he said after a brief pause, realizing that was the important response.

I'm glad you like her.

Maybe Brody's opinion of or relationship with Johara didn't depend upon Nyarai's opinion of the girl, but it was nice to know Johara was liked by her anyway. It just sort of put a part of Brody's mind at ease, he supposed. He didn't have to worry about his pseudo-friend and his little princess being in conflict. That was good.

"Jo's a lot like her mum, I think. Just . . . more childlike." He let out a quick laugh of sorts. "Obviously. I figure she could keep me young for a long time."

He loved it. Her youthfulness was refreshing. It helped him keep the seriousness out sometimes, for better or worse.

[Nyarai Khartuul]

He was glad.

She wasn't looking to make him happy, but she figured it was a nice enough compliment. If Johara knew what she did, then Brody certainly had some idea.

Unless he really was as obtuse as she made him out to be.

Nodding, she put down the last of her bread and wrapped her arms around her knees, careful to keep her skirt together. She rocked slight in this position, back and forth. “You should look out for her. It was a tall tree, Brody.” she met his eyes and nodded, trying to make him understand. Little girls climbing trees was well and all, but only when there was an adult around.

What if Johara fell?

Who would he blame then?