36

Now that Zoe has mentioned it, you think you remember your grandma making some kind of tea with these petals. You almost tell Zoe this, but you realize just in time that it's probably better not to risk accidentally letting slip something magical. Just as that thought crosses your mind, Zoe turns back to you with the vase in hand. She looks pleased—but there's a hint of something else in her face as well.

"You know, Huknock, if I was your grandma, I'd be a little worried about you moving into a new town all by yourself. You seem to be settling in okay—are you?"

You realize the look she's giving you is just a little bit overcome with worry. You're not sure how to respond; after a few moments, she gives the flowers another, almost curious look.

"You know, I could've sworn when your grandma moved away that she said she never wanted to come back. I suppose that's why I was a little surprised to see you last night—and especially when I heard that you had moved back into her old house. Is she planning to move in as well? Maxie told me you had some kind of issue with your landlord, but it seems strange that your grandma would leave you here all on your own. Irresponsible, even."

You find yourself struggling to respond as each of Zoe's questions sets your stomach churning with worry. Mind racing with thoughts of what could happen if you broke Grandma's promise to keep everything about the truth of your situation a secret, you feel yourself starting to panic. Out of desperation, you decide to try and distract her by: