“Guess what?' I said. 'I have a psychic.'His head tilted questioningly, birdlike.A sidekick?”

“I laughed at his honesty. I like people who say what they are thinking. No need to guess and try strain your nonexistent psychic abilities.”

“His massive head tilted. He regarded her with a gaze made tranquil by the bright sun and the limitless sky.She said in wonder, "You are the riddle.""Of course I am," said the gryphon.”

“You really shouldn’t do that to people," I criticized."It’s hardly fair.""Do what?""Dazzle them like that – she’s probably hyperventilating in the kitchen right now."He seemed confused."Oh come on," I said dubiously. "You have to know the effect you have on people."He tilted his head to one side, and his eyes were curious. "I dazzle people?""You haven’t noticed? Do you think everybody gets their way so easily?"He ignored my questions. "Do I dazzle you?""Frequently," I admitted.”

“Trying to care about that,” he said. He cocked his head and widened his eyes. “Huh. I guess I’m not managing it.”

“I'd give anything if you'd kiss me." I said. "I mean," I said when he tilted his head to look at me, his eyes wide in shock, "I've kissed guys before. It's like a handshake these days," I lied, just wanting to know what his lips on mind would feel like. "Almost required if you're leaving.”