Silver Linings

F O U R T E E N

Genevieve

WE'RE STRANDED FOR HOURS UNTIL A GUARD ON PATROL SAVES US WITH A LADDER. A new one—not the ancient one Silas had us climb.

I didn't mind the time I have to spend waiting—most of it flew by because I was talking to Silas or admiring the beauty beyond the walls—but after how good of a night Silas and I are ending on, on top of everything that happened after arriving, all I want to do is sleep the rest of the night away.

Tonight wore me out.

I sit in the backseat of the car, barely holding my head up, while Silas and Prince are speaking in hushed tones so I can't understand. I'm too tired to eavesdrop. The warmth of the car is all I needed from the bitter cold I've had to endure.

Tonight has definitely changed my view on Silas. I can even say I feel guilty for how I've been acting. His short temper has descended from his father, the previous sin of wrath, and every successor before him. Sure, he needs to work on his attitude but I already see a difference, even if it's a small one.

"Gem."

My head slowly lifts and I force my eyes open, meeting Silas's. His arm is perched on the roof of the car as he leans over me. He must still be freezing after sitting in this weather without a jacket for hours.

"Prince will be on watch outside your room tonight," he says softly, gathering me into his arms. "Let's get you to bed."

I nod tiredly, closing my eyes once Silas adjusts me more comfortably. The heat from his body encases mine in a warm hug, protecting me from the blowing wind. I can't lie, I do feel safe. He's holding me so delicately, as if I'll break if his grip is too tight.

"You're burning up," Silas comments as he brings me inside, instantly warming me from the cold. "I thought the jacket would have kept you warm enough."

"I'm fine," I mumble, then yawn with my entire body. My head falls on his chest, exhausted from all that power. "It'll go down in the morning. You should be worried about your own health."

He ignores me and starts climbing the staircase, into my room. "I've suffered worse weather. You're fragile."

A scoffed laugh escapes. "I am not fragile."

"You needed my jacket within five minutes of walking." Silas stays silent after that, setting me in the bed.

"Touché."

He grins and steps back from the bed. I feel a faint smile of my own grow, and it doesn't want to leave. It's weird ending the night on such a good note. We've fought so much that it almost seems taboo.

Silas shoves his hands in his pockets. "I'll let you sleep. It's been a long night."

"You're telling me." I chuckle and watch him walk to the door."Try not to break anything on your way out, will you?"

"Very funny," Silas mutters and pulls it open. "Goodnight, Gem."

"Goodnight."

He gives me one last glance before heading out, making sure to close the door behind him, and I immediately head for the bathroom for a shower.

Tonight was one of the most fun nights I've ever had. I can't believe it was Silas, of all people, who showed me a glimpse of the outside world—he opened my eyes to a lot of things tonight. Maybe we aren't the best of friends, but we're still friends. That's enough for me..

I quickly wash myself, having to lean against the wall at some points to rest my exhausted muscles. The only thing that wakes me up is the sound of my phone buzzing on the nightstand like crazy, forcing me to lug myself out of the shower and grab it.