The Stars are Dying : (Nytefall: Book 1)

Every step back to the castle felt like a waking fever dream. I was barely present and had left Nyte abruptly, needing time to figure out how anything I’d just discovered was real.

Lost in my reeling thoughts, the air whooshed from me as I collided with someone.

“Apologies, milady.” Shaye shuffled back before dipping her head.

I smiled, laughing lightly to disperse any tension. “I’m sorry too. I didn’t see you. These halls are so dimly lit.”

Shaye’s shoulders relaxed. “Can I accompany you to your room? Or fetch anything for you before you retire? Davina has already left for home, but I could—”

“No. I’ll be just fine, thank you.”

Shaye nodded, and from the fatigue in her eyes I knew it must be late. She gave another bow before slipping around me, and I turned to spy her about to leave through the exit.

“It’s freezing at this hour,” I called, noting she was only in her usual cotton gown. Long-sleeve, but it wouldn’t protect against the chill.

“I do not mind. I live just outside the palace gates.”

I had already unhooked my cloak, and while her eyes widened in protest I held her gaze, telling her not to bother. I fit it around her shoulders, and she clipped the cloak at her collar as though no one had ever offered her such a simple kindness before. I couldn’t bear it.

“I want you to keep it,” I said, squeezing her arm. “I’ll see you tomorrow.”