Moving to the window, she sat in the chair and stared out for a time, not moving a muscle.
He paused at the door. “Goodnight, Elizabeth.”
She continued to stare at nothing and made no indication she had heard.
***
Caspian took her to her townhouse in Veridas. She looked as though she hadn’t slept at all.
“This is your door.”
Wordlessly, she fished out a key and made to unlock it.
“Wait.” His hand slammed against the door. “Did you sleep at all?”
She stared at him as if the question required translation. Finally, she shook her head.
“Do you have any food at home?”
Slowly, she shook her head.
He dragged a hand over his face. “Will you be alright?”
“Yes.” The word came out as a croak.
Caspian wedged himself between her and the door. “Right. Over my immortal body am I going to let you starve yourself.”
She furrowed her brows in that irritating way, as if his words could not reach her.
“You’re coming with me,” he ordered, pointing to the carriage.
If her glare could shoot daggers, he’d be blinded. He dragged a hand through his hair. “Just show me that you’re going to be alright, and I’ll go. Okay?”
“I’m fine.” Her voice sounded hoarse from disuse.
He snorted. “I don’t believe you. Walk back to the carriage right now, or I’m going to drag you there myself.”
She crossed her arms.
“Why do you even care?” She looked so tired, as if she were fraying at the edges.
He took her hand and gently tugged her towards the carriage. She resisted him, feebly, and he gave a sound of exasperation. Ignoring her protests, he hoisted her up over his shoulder and brought her back to the carriage.
She sputtered over his shoulder, “Caspian. This is ridiculous. Leave me be—”
He set her down and opened the carriage door, glaring. “In.”
She turned to look at him, anger making her eyes look sharper than they had in days.
“I care. I don’t know why, but I care, damnit,” he snarled. “Let me take care of you.”
She stood motionless for a moment.
Finally, after what felt like an eternity, she climbed into the carriage without another word.
When they returned to the castle, he ensured a plate of food was put in front of her, but she ate only the smallest of bites and pushed the rest away.
***
