“There is bad blood between them?” Persephone longed to know all she could about Hades.
Hermes’ smile dimmed and he exchanged a long look with Demeter.
Persephone turned to her mother. “What happened?”
“A sad tale,” Demeter murmured. “Too sad and too long to begin at such an hour, child.”
Persephone’s heart dropped. She would know more. “Is it so late?”
Hermes sat forward, smiling at her. “It was late when I left Hades in the meadows and found your mother coming home to you. I imagine Helios will rise soon.”
“The meadow?” Persephone blinked. “You did not travel with my mother?”
“Oh no, Zeus had sent me after Hades, for he had quickly quitted the Council Chamber before he was rewarded for his cunning.”
Persephone bit back her smile. He hurried from the Chamber? Because of her? Or was he simply eager to return home?
“He surprised me twice this night.” Demeter laid her head back, closing her eyes. “It’s a shame he would not accept his reward.”
“What was it?” Persephone asked, still considering Hermes’ words.
“His deed or his reward?” Hermes asked.
Persephone knew what he’d done, but she could hardly say so. “Both.”
“He returned a hero to Athens’ battle front,” Hermes paused. “So Zeus rewarded him with a woman, a pleasure chamber and the night to enjoy himself.”
Persephone swallowed. Too many disturbing images flashed through her mind. And anger, hot and quick, wrapped about her. She frowned.
“But when I found him in your meadow, he had no interest. In fact, he seemed greatly distracted.” Hermes shrugged.
Persephone glanced at Hermes and understood. Her heart was in her throat as she waited for him to reveal all to her mother.
“Poor man.” Demeter sighed without lifting her head or opening her eyes. “He is too alone.”
“Mayhap that will soon change?” Hermes spoke, staring into Persephone’s eyes. “We should hope he will find someone who might help him forget the ghosts of his past and find some warmth and laughter.”
Persephone blinked.
What was he saying? Was he speaking for Hades? Had he come on his behalf?
“I hope so,” she whispered cautiously.
Hermes searched her face, asking, “Do you?”
She nodded.
She could do nothing more than stare at Hermes, swallowing the questions that begged to be asked.
“You are right. He has grieved long enough. We must hope he finds peace,” Demeter murmured, her voice fading as she dosed. A thin, reedy snore rose from her, and her posture relaxed in sleep.
Hermes leaned forward, whispering, “His heart is hard.”
She shook her head.
“No?” Hermes’ brows rose.
“Guarded, yes. But not hard.”