Chapter 57

Twyla tried to calm her racing heart as she heard the doorknob turn. Her fingers picked at the loose skin around her nails. Her shoes scuffed the floor as her legs jiggled. 

"Hello, Twyla," Bastian's deep voice greeted gently.

Twyla looked up. Bastian was wearing a black button up shirt with a satin tie, also black, and black pants. His shirt sleeves were rolled up and showed off his muscled arms. Twyla had missed those arms. His pointed, glittering crown hung crookedly on his head. His eyes were mostly silver, with a ring of green around the edges. His skin was back to its porcelain glow. He looked more alive than she did. 

"Hello." Her voice was barely audible. Her mind still replayed the images of him covered in blood and launching himself at her. She looked away. She didn't know which hurt more. Seeing him in pain or him causing her pain.

"Do you mind if I sit?" he asked.