"Rest," was all Eyrx said.
Thalina's eyes flew open. Rest?
"Eyrx, how can I rest? I want to know what's happening!"
She shoved the blanket off her legs like it was the enemy, trying to sit up—only for Eyrx to cross the room in one silent, powerful stride. He didn't even flinch. Instead, he gently pushed her back down and fixed the blanket over her body with absurd care, as if tucking in a delicate creature that might vanish if left unattended.
He adjusted it around her shoulders, smoothing it at the corners until she was nestled perfectly. His big hand lingered for a second too long near her collarbone, warm against her flushed skin.
"The Celestial Awakening Ceremony has been pushed farther. That's why the village is in a frenzy," he said flatly, like the shift in cosmic order barely deserved more than a breath—like none of it mattered next to the task of making her comfortable.
Thalina blinked up at him. "But Eyrx, this is huge news! Don't you care?"
