“Thanks for everything.”“As you wish,” the captain said. If axes could frown, I’m sure he would have.“Stay sharp,” Carter told him.”

“I caught Bast’s arm when she was a few steps from the bank.“Stay away from the water.”She frowned. “Carter, I’m a cat. I’m not going for a swim. But if you want to summon a river goddess, you really need to do it at the riverbank.”

“Augustus," I said. "Really. You don't have to do this.""Sure I do," he said. "I found my Wish.""God, you're the best," I told him."I bet you say that to all the boys who finance your international travel," he answered.”

“No, I’m surprised he didn’t say goodbye.”“Well, of course he didn’t say goodbye.” Heather put down her mug. “You would have convinced him to stay.”“That’s not true.”“Oh, please.” Heather rolled her eyes. “You would have been like Oh, Tristan, please don’t go. Stay with me so I can crush on you and giggle at everything you say.” Heather nodded. “That’s what it would have been like. In that high-pitched voice and everything.”

“Thanks for not talking with your fists,” I said. I have a little sister, and I’m not sure I’d be as understanding with any of her boyfriends.“I’ve seen you fight,” he said, turning. “It would’ve been a terribly short conversation.”

“No. Thank you she said in a voice that said he could go to hell and take his jacket with him.”