Page 90 of Crown of Storm and Silence
Before I can respond, Elçin enters, her storm-gray eyes immediately cataloguing the scene. She's cleaned up since our return, but still carries herself like someone ready for battle.
"Well, this looks cozy," she observes with dry wit, settling into another chair near Banu's bed. "Family recovery time in the Shadow Court. Much more civilized than I expected."
"Elçin," I say with relief, grateful for her steady presence. "I'm glad you're still here."
"Someone needs to keep an eye on things," she replies, though her attention shifts as footsteps echo in the corridor.
The chamber doors swing open with a flourish that announces my brother's arrival before he even speaks. Zohan strides in with that otherworldly grace that still takes my breath away, his golden hair catching the crystal light as he surveys the scene with obvious relief. Behind him, two guards maintain a discreet but watchful distance—clearly escorting rather than accompanying him.
A pang of guilt hits me as I see him. I should have checked on him, should have asked Kaan what exactly "under investigation" meant for my brother's treatment. The sight of the guards makes my stomach clench—part of me wants to ask how he managed this visit, whether he's been released, or if this is some kind of supervised meeting, but I bite back the questions.
"Nesilhan," he says warmly, crossing to my side with arms outstretched, though the guards' presence makes the gesture somewhat awkward. "You look much better today. The color has returned to your cheeks."
"I feel stronger," I agree, accepting his embrace while noting the way Banu's expression immediately shifts to something approaching distaste.
"Oh, wonderful," Banu says with saccharine sweetness. "Prince Shiny has graced us with his presence. Should I curtsy from bed?"
"Banu," I warn, though I can't quite suppress my smile at her obvious disdain.
Elçin watches the exchange with interest.
Zohan's jaw tightens at the fairy's less-than-respectful greeting, but he maintains his diplomatic composure. "Lady Banu. I'm pleased to see you've recovered from your... ordeal."
"Oh, you're pleased?" Banu replies with bright, pointed cheer. "How thoughtful of you to spare a thought for the little fairy who nearly died saving your sister."
"Banu, behave," I say more firmly, though part of me is curious about the obvious animosity between them.
"I am behaving," she protests with wide-eyed innocence. "This is me on my very best behavior."
Elçin clears her throat diplomatically. "Perhaps we should focus on more pressing matters. Like, why is Zohan traveling with an escort?" Her tone is neutral but pointed.
Zohan settles into the chair across from us, his blue eyes never leaving my face with that protective intensity I'm beginning to recognize as characteristic, though he glances nervously at the guards. "How are you feeling? Truly?"
"Better each day," I reply honestly. "The healers say the magical exhaustion is mostly healed, though I still tire easily."
"And the baby?" His gaze drops meaningfully to my belly, concern creasing his perfect features.
"Strong and active," I assure him, my hand moving instinctively to the gentle swell. "The connection is fully restored."
"Thank the Gods," he breathes, genuine relief flooding his expression. "When I heard about the attack, about what those creatures did to you..." His hands clench into fists, controlled fury flickering behind his diplomatic mask.
"Very traumatic for everyone," Banu interjects with false brightness. "Though some people managed to avoid the actual trauma by being conveniently elsewhere."
"Where exactly were you when your sister was being tortured?" she continues sweetly. "Such interesting timing, Goldilocks."
"Don't call me that," Zohan snaps, his diplomatic composure finally cracking.
"What, Goldilocks?" Banu asks with delighted innocence. "But it suits you perfectly! All that lovely golden hair, always wandering where you don't belong..."
Elçin's expression sharpens at Banu's pointed questions, her tactical mind clearly processing the implications.
"My name is Zohan," he says through gritted teeth.
"Oh, I know what your name is," Banu replies with cheerful malice. "I just think Goldilocks suits you better."
"Banu, enough," I say, though I can't deny there's something satisfying about watching my brother's perfect composure crack under her relentless needling.
"Fine, fine," she sighs theatrically, settling back against her pillows. "I'll be good. Invalid fairy privileges and all that."
