Chapter 24: Facts And Rumors

Zeke woke up feeling a certain sense of anticipation begin to creep into his bones. He had planned to spend another day visiting Azia in the healer's ward and the prospect made him excited and nervous in equal doses. He hoped above all else they would have another day filled with laughter, getting to know each other, and, dare he hope, some flirtation sprinkled in for good measure.

He was so caught up in his own thoughts as he walked through the Knowles compound that he nearly collided with Ralph and Lowell in the hallway.

"Whoa, whoa," he said, instinctively holding his hands up as he skidded to a halt in front of them. "I'm sorry, guys. I wasn't paying attention."

Ralph and Lowell both offered Zeke quick smiles and told him his apology wasn't necessary.