Persea gave him a grin, one that was smug and playful.
"Do not fear old age. There is wisdom in it, I'm sure," she said with a shrug, then moved past him as her hair and wig maker entered. They fuzzed over her like busy bees, making sure everything was perfect, and as they worked, she stole another smile his way, glad that he was nearby. He reminded her of her father, whom she missed. Things had become dreadfully lonely since her parents had both passed. Now it was just her and her servants and slaves-
and of course, Mal'hin.