The Thought Keepers: Ability

Chapter 31: A Bouquet of Yellow Lilies

I woke up in an unfamiliar bedroom. It was twice the size of my one at home, with a vaulted ceiling and gold-streaked marble walls. An amber chandelier hung from the ceiling, creating little ripples of sunlight that danced across the walls.

Sheer gold curtains hung from the windows, letting in gentle sunshine that warmed the room. It reminded me of the bright yellow walls my uncle painted for me at home.

I remembered him once saying that it was better to wake up in a bright room, safe and sound, then to wake up surrounded by darkness. I didn't understand what he meant at the time; why the dark was so dangerous. It wasn't as if painting my bedroom a bright color was going to keep anything from coming for me. But he didn't care how silly it seemed. Even in the smallest of ways, he was always trying to protect me.

If only he had protected himself a little better.

I eyed the large duffle-bag tucked in the corner of the room, stuffed full of my belongings. I wondered when Carson and Jade had the time to put it together. A few suitcases and a bookbag full of untouched textbooks sat next to it, waiting for me to unpack. I dreaded the amount of time it would take to sort through everything.

I sat up in the four-poster bed, marveling at the silkiness of the embroidered blue and gold sheets. The full-sized mattress dwarfed me so much that I had to scoot to the edge just to see the floor.

I shook my head. This bedroom was a bedroom fit for a queen, and much too grand for me. I'd have to talk to Carson about it, and at least try to convince him that I could stay in a simple guest room.

As I slipped my feet out from under the covers, I found a pair of black fuzzy slippers waiting for me when I did. I put them on, looking around the room in awe. I smiled at the glass of citrine water on the nightstand and the tiny note that said: DRINK ME.

Downing the water in a few quick gulps, I set the cup down and walked towards the door. I could already smell food- pancakes and bacon, if I wasn't mistaken- and I knew exactly who was cooking it.

I opened the door, slipping into one of the maze-like hallways of the Mystic Castra. I eased my way into the nearest bathroom, checking myself in the mirror.

My dark circles were as prominent as ever, and my complexion more dull than I would like. Sighing, I started twisting my hair back into its braid crown, since the curls were simply out of control. They had been free enough for the past few days. 

After washing up and tugging on a pair of dark jeans with a long-sleeved tee, I searched for the stairs.

"Need some help?"

I turned to see Dante walking towards me in a ripped jeans and band tee ensemble. His hair was different, swept back off his forehead and parted to the side. The combat boots tied in the look, and I had to admit that I was impressed.

"Are you going somewhere?" I asked, eyebrows raised. "You look kinda nice."

Dante smirked at me, crossing his arms. "I might be, who knows." And then his gaze turned serious, eyes softening. "How are you?"

I grimaced. This was the part that I always hated. The concerned looks, the gently-phrased questions and pats on the back. I knew Dante meant well, but it still made my insides twist. The unintentional reminder of what happened, and what was to come.

Still, I answered. "Okay, I guess. I mean, not great but-" I didn't finish. I didn't have to.

Dante just nodded. "I actually needed to talk to you about something."

I couldn't keep the shock from my face. Dante was seeking me out to talk willingly? What happened to avoiding eye contact and giving me the widest berth possible?