Something in Elan's heart responded, gaily, to the tone as he rose from his kneeling position and wandered off towards the shower in deference to her wishes.

"Very well, Shelley."

His mother used to use such a tone with him.

"Elan, you need to shower."
"I do not wish to, Mother. The water is hot and the soap irritates my eyes."
"Nonetheless, you must bathe."
"Mother, I do not wish to."
"Shower now, Yahid, as I wish to take you somewhere and I will not do so unless you have showered."
"Very well, Mother!"

A soft smile blossomed if but barely on Elan's lips