Sixteen
HAVEN
Light—actual sunlight—streamed through a real glass window. So much brighter than the flickering orbs I’d conjured in darkness. I had to blink repeatedly as my eyes watered.
The ceiling above me was white plaster instead of rough stone. If I wanted to, I could stretch my arms without hitting walls. The space felt impossibly vast after my stone prison.
A gentle breeze stirred through the open window, actual moving air. I could feel it brush against my skin like a whispered promise of the world beyond these walls—a world outside the pit. “Where am I?”
“Oh, good. You’re awake.”
I recognized the voice. It belonged to the woman who’d stood up to Grayson.
I turned my head, and tiny stars danced at the edge of my vision.
“Easy, pet. You’ve been through hell. You’re in the shields’ infirmary. I’m May.” My hero had soft blue eyes, a kind face, and silver threads glimmering in her dark hair. She lookedexhausted, as if caring for me and chasing off guards had taxed her reserves.
“You scolded Grayson.”
Her brows rose. “You heard that?”
“Part of it.”
May pursed her lips. “There’s no excuse for what he did to you.”
No argument from me. “May I have some water? Please?”
“Of course.” May helped me sit.
I winced as bandages pulled slightly across my back, a reminder that beneath the clean linens, my body was still a map of violence.
“You’re much better than you should be. By rights, you should be dead.” May eyed me as if she expected an explanation.
She wouldn’t get one. “I’ve always healed quickly.”
“I’ll keep your secrets, pet.”
I shook my head. I’d be a fool to trust anyone. “That’s it. I heal quickly.”
“I don’t blame you for keeping your secrets; they may save you.” Then she held a cup to my lips.
I drank greedily. Gratefully. My whole body felt dry.
“Slowly, pet.” She took the cup away and fluffed my pillows so I could remain seated.
“I’m still thirsty.”
“You can have more in a few minutes.”
“You’re right.”
“About?” she asked.
“There’s no excuse for what they did.”
“Grayson’s father is a cruel man. He taught his son to be cruel.”
“Lesson well learned.”
