“I think this is a good time for a break,” said Dr. Rosenshield. “Seeing as most of us are off our horses anyway.”
I finished my notes and put away the notebook, then reached my hand out to the creature. “Let me take it so you can get down.”
Liam nodded and tilted his hand to encourage the insect to walk. It slowly climbed into my palm, its sticky feet pulling at my skin with each step. I inspected it closely as it moved along my hand to my forearm.
Liam dismounted and approached, but the avicularia spread its clear wings and took off, disappearing into the boughs.
“So you do smile,” Liam said as he stopped before me.
“What? Of course I smile.” I retrieved a handkerchief from my front pocket and wiped my hand.
“That’s the first time I’ve seen it on this trip.”
“It’s only been two days.”
“So you don’t smile every day?” He adjusted his glasses and looked at me. He was taller than my five foot ten willowy frame but only by a few inches.
“I don’t know. I’m not in the nature of counting my smiles. You smile enough for the both of us anyway.” Aaric approached and took our horses. I followed, ready for lunch.
Liam barked a laugh as he caught up with me. “Right. Because I’m happy. I enjoy life. I find pleasure in the little things.”
“I find pleasure in?—”
“Working,” he interrupted.
I stopped and turned to face him. “You were just as excited as I was about that insect. You even quizzed Aaric and Sylvie like a properprofessor. You enjoy work too. You just don’t want to admit it.”
He rolled his eyes. “Well, yes. I just told you earlier that I do enjoy it. But I also enjoy things outside of my job. Something you could—Oh wait!” He gesticulated wildly. “I have an excellent idea.”
“Let’s hear it,” I said, hands on my hips. “And make it quick because I’m hungry.”
“Yes, sunshine.” His eyes were full of mirth.
“What did you call me?”
“Sunshine. Because you’re the opposite of bubbly and jovial.”
He paused, as if waiting for me to respond. I didn’t.
“I’m saying it sarcastically…”
I gritted my teeth. “Okay, yes I get it. What’s your brilliant idea?”
“While we’re here for work and research, of course, I like to have little side projects for fun.”
“And,” I urged him on.
He tilted his head, his eyes traveling from my head to my toes, and back up again before meeting my gaze. “I’m going to help you find your fun.”
I shook my head and walked away, mumbling, “I don’t have time for this.”
“Mark my words, sunshine!” he called after me. “You’ll be having the most fun of your life within two months’ time!”
Chapter 6
Playing Games
Cerise
