Chapter 19

As we rode the train to the commercial district, I decided to ask, "Gene, will it bother you if I live with you and your relatives?"

"It's fine. It will feel a bit weird having you there, but I'm sure we'll both get used to it. Don't worry about it. If you think it's lonely being alone, you're always free to come live with us in Aqua Chrysalis." He was blushing a little.

I smiled. "Thanks."

As I moved my hand from my lap to the seat, I accidentally touched Gene's hand. I noticed him flinch as our fingertips remained in contact.

For some reason, my heart was beating faster than normal. When the train arrived at our destination, we stepped off and into a sea of people.

"There's so many people here," I commented.

"Dinner rush maybe," Gene replied.

Suddenly, he held my hand. "Be careful not to get separated."

I nodded. "Ok."