Moondancers

  Part of the creep out was I’d been picturing myself as a satyr, and the picture was not pretty. I saw myself walking around the Applegate estate showing off my puny arms and concave chest for everyone to laugh at. No way!

  “We don’t need your help,” I said, and went back to work. Petros was more than creeping me out, his presence reminded me of my shame.

  “Don’t be like that. We’re practically family,” he said.

  I couldn’t tell if he was being friendly or condescending, and frankly, I didn’t care. I whipped back around.

  “No we’re not! I’m never going to be a part of your family, so if you’re looking for a little buddy to go galloping around with in the meadow, look somewhere else.”

  His nostrils flared, and for some reason, I found it funny.

  I snickered.

  “I could rip your head off,” he said lowering his voice.

  “But you won’t, will you? I don’t think the Countess would like you ripping off the head of her daughter’s boyfriend very much. So be a good little goat and—”

  I was off the floor. Petros had picked me up so quickly, I didn’t realize it happening. The creature was strong, holding me above his head as if I were a small child. And then, I was flying.