Book Six: Chapter 220

She shrugged, one shoulder lifting slightly higher than the other in a gesture that looked practiced, almost casual. “I guess. But two out of three doesn’t necessarily mean anything.” Her voice was light, unconcerned, as though they were discussing weather patterns instead of the structure of reality.

“You’re right, it doesn’t.” Mike slowed his steps and stopped beside a stone bench partially hidden beneath creeping ivy. He brushed a few leaves away with the back of his hand before sitting down, the stone cool even through his clothes. “But it was the North Pole that gave it away.” He leaned forward, resting his forearms on his knees, fingers loosely laced together. “I got to see Freyja’s memories, you know. I was floating around in her head quite a bit.”

Naia tilted her head, listening. Sunlight reflected off the surface of the fountain behind her, scattering light across her bare shoulders