---
"Lily is a storm in a silk dress," Elena said. "Bat Bat is a storm with teeth and no shame."
Sekhmet's brow lifted. "No shame."
Elena stared at him.
"She asked one of the maids why humans wear underwear," Elena said flatly.
Sekhmet paused.
Then he rubbed his forehead slowly.
"I see," he murmured.
Elena continued like she had been holding this grievance for hours.
"She also tried to bite a spoon because she thought it was shiny prey," Elena added. "Then she declared the spoon 'too hard' and blamed the spoon for being rude."
Sekhmet exhaled.
"I am sorry," he said, voice dry.
Elena waved it off.
"I am not complaining," she lied.
Sekhmet stared at her.
Elena's lips twitched again, and she finally admitted the truth.
"I am complaining," she corrected. "But her growth did increase. She listens when she feels challenged. Yesterday, Lily challenged me without meaning to. Today I took it personally."
Sekhmet's eyes softened slightly.
"I appreciate it," he said.
