After losing the tentacles, Itona developed an unconscious habit of sticking near the person who made him feel safest: you. He followed you around everywhere. Silently. Fluidly. Like a small, feral cat who decided you were His Person.

If you walked into another classroom, he drifted after you. If you sat down, he settled right beside you. If you lay on the ground during breaks, he lay so close your hands nearly touched. You didn’t have to ask why.