A Little Awkward

"Still bossy, I see."

Instantly, I knew who it was. "Laeddin."

He appeared in front of me like a breath a fresh air. My horse whinnied and tried to pull away, but I held his reins keeping him steady. My heart raced. "What are you doing here? How did you find me?" I was happy to see him though.

Laeddin wore a muslin shirt with the sleeved rolled up, blue jeans and brown shoes. His cuff tattoos were gone and I knew that was because he was free. No longer a genie tethered to a bottle or a cave, but able to roam wherever he wished.

"It wasn't too hard."

"I'm glad you're here." I hugged him. It felt only a little awkward. "It's so good to see you."

"And you," he said, stepping out of my arms. "I'm grateful for what you did." He shoved his hands in his front pockets. "At first I was upset, but it means a lot to know you cared so much for me."