Chapter 92: A Little Strange, Her Heart Is
Ruediger didn’t know whether to be relieved or worried as he hugged Lariette. In response, she wrapped her arms around his frame, pressing her face onto his chest.
Lariette didn’t cry despite her eyes still glazing over. Ruediger carefully stroked her back, still feeling the trembling of her body.
"Your grandpa will be here soon, Lettie," whispered Ruediger above Lariette’s head. The warmth of his breath fanned over her, "It’s scary, en? Still, you’re safe now."
Grasping the backside of Ruediger’s shirt, Lariette pursed her lips together. She liked how reassuring his voice was, despite noticing the traces of worry.
"Thank you... for finding me, Eddy."
Lariette’s voice muffled against Ruediger’s chest. A sad smile hung on his lips. He gently patted the small of her back.
"I’m glad that... nothing worse happened to you."
Various terrifying scenarios took over Ruediger’s mind as he searched for Lariette in the rain. Even though the little island was generally safe, anything could still happen.
Lariette might get trapped somewhere if she accidentally slipped and fell. She might also suffer from broken bones.
Such thoughts were frightening enough to Ruediger, let alone when he was forced to imagine what would happen if the two men managed to catch her.
"Hehe..." Lariette chuckled, sounding a little drier than her usual mirthful ones, "I’m lucky I could still climb a tree even in this weather. I felt like a monkey."