No, too sudden and too risky

You hesitate. You look at her little smiling face.

Shit. This was a hell of a risk and one you hadn't planned on taking. You felt for her but if things didn't go right she could die and your spirit could end up permanently harmed.

A familiar. Full time companion. No, more than a companion. A creature that shared of your very soul. A new extension of you. You weren't ready for this type of commitment. You feel wretched that you had gotten her hopes up. Her adorableness and open friendly nature had caused you to put your guard down.

You had the ruby, you had what you came for.

You decide to let the fates decide what happens to Boop. She wasn't your problem. Perhaps once you got back to the real world you could ask around, make an offer for her or something.

"Hey Boop."

"Yeah?" She asks.

"Um...I want to play a game first."

"Hee hee hee! Oh boy!"

"Do you know hide and seek?" The words taste like mud in your mouth.

"Uh huh." She nods excitedly.

You smile weakly. "Okay, you go hide and I'll try to find you."

"OKAYEEE!" She titters. Quick as a flash she slips into one of the holes she had been using.

You sigh and say under your breath. "Good luck little one."

You stand and walk quickly toward an exit.

Just before you exit you hear a small voice behind you cry out. "Wait! No! Don't leave yet!"