Chapter 44 "What was that about?" Asked Rhys looking bewildered. "Should I go after her?" Naomi asked. Rhys shook his head, no. "She'd been off all morning. Maybe she's just been stressed. This mystery sickness is as hard on the relatives of the sick as it is on the sick themselves." Rhys said looking saddened by the reality of what was happening, Naomi gave her brother what she hoped was a reassuring hug. "You guys need to let me know if there is anything I can do while I am here" Rhys looked appreciative of the offer. "Maybe spend some time with Lucy?" he asked, "She really wants to get to know you". Naomi bristled a little at this, when he made a similar comment yesterday it had seemed sweet and touching but today it felt more scheming and contrived. If they know who Naomi was or Alex getting close to your enemy was always a good strategy. She exchanged knowing looks with Theon. "How about I go get everyone coffee now and see if I can find Lucy while I am at it?" the two men agreed this was a good idea. Leaving the room in search of the other woman Naomi found her coming out of the ladies bathroom, her eyes were a pinkish colour like she had been crying. "Hey" Naomi said softly "Are you okay? I'm going to get coffees, want to walk with me?" She asked Lucy. Lucy nodded and fell into step beside her. For a few moments neither woman spoke. Naomi didn't look directly at Lucy but she could still feel her gaze examining her from head to toe. "Are you okay Lucy?" Naomi asked as they reached the coffee shop "Yes" said Lucy in a tentative voice. "t's just been a lot with Rhys getting sick and then you are here, your brother idolises you and I've been nervous to meet you in case you don't like me" I bet you have thought Naomi but kept it to herself. The words were sincere sounding but there was something in Lucy's eyes that didn't match the tone she was using. Something darker that made Naomi's nerves to stand up and pay attention. Naomi worked to keep her face a mask of pleasantness and gentleness but really wanted to wrinkle her nose in displeasure. Rhys thinks we should spend some time together, get to know each other," she said "Maybe go for a drink sometime?" At this Lucy became genuinely enthusiastic. "Yes drinks! Great idea" she said nodding "Girl's night out and you can tell me all sorts of stories about you and Rhys growing up". Naomi saw it again, that flash in Lucy's eyes. Naomi didn't know her exact plan, but it seemed whatever it was Naomi was going along with it nicely. Beaming, Lucy linked arms with her. "I can't wait to get to you know all about you sister" she said as they went to order the drinks. After another hour of visiting Theon, Alex and Naomi left he hospital. As soon as they were in the car Naomi gave an exaggerated shudder. "Uch" she said "I feel like I need a shower now. Like, she kept touching me and I had to just keep smiling even with this horrid aura coming off her." "Is Lucy a bad Lady?" Alex asked from the back seat "Why do you ask baby" Theon asked "She smelt funny, and she made me feel bad" said Alex looking sad. "and she makes Uncle Rhys sick" VID BONUS