OK, I know this chapter is pretty short compared to other chapters, but I couldn't think of a way to continue this chapter, it's harder than one would think! Yeah... so... KEEP CALM AND READ ON!
Chapter 12: A Criminal on the Loose, and a Lovesick Mastermind
HOLLY'S P.O.V
I sit facing Artemis, my shoulders hunch. I have a suspicion he'll read my body language and know to keep away.
"Holly?"
His tone is timid, yet I let out an irritated sigh.
"What?"
"Minerva... she... she... kissed me."
I really don't have time for a fond reminiscing of the past, but when I look at Artemis's worried face, and chewing lip, I think, This isn't Artemis. He's worried, not confident. Timid, not out-going. He needs help.
I stifle a laugh. Artemis Fowl needing help? There's a first.
"Why?"
He looks up. I see blood rushing to his cheeks.
"I-I don't know."
Root raises an eyebrow, but makes no comment. Foaly, however, doesn't give Artemis the courtesy.
"She kissed you? Typical," He mutters. "A pretty girl has finally kissed you, and you're... what? Ashamed?" "However," He adds, "Judging by the look of things, it's your first kiss. Aww poor Arty- he's growing up."
Artemis leaps up to defend himself, but I stop him.
"Shut your trap, Foaly. Or I'll make you with a blaster stuck in that big gob."
Surprisingly, Root goes to Artemis's defence. It's a strange world. Thankfully, the suggestion there will be more talk of first kisses and crushes, is banished when Butler bursts in.
"Sorry about the wait," He grunts. "Damn goblins got in my way."
I notice fresh smoke billowing from Butler's blaster, which he blows away. The van sinks down considerably as Butler jumps in, which I don't voice. He gently lays down Hazel, who still looks like an angel, despite the gash across her face, which looks fresh. Minerva looks slightly sour towards her, and her lips thin as Artemis leans forward and strokes her face.
"Ahem. If you don't mind, we have to leave now. Butler, can you take the wheel? The rest of us will camp out here."
Butler nods, and leaps out with the agility of a cat. Artemis becomes self aware, and leans back, embarrassed.
Hm. Humans- all the same.