Chapter 2:

Silas closed the dishwasher and leaned against the counter, his green eyes catching mine with that easy smile. “You really did not have to help with cleanup, Elara. I am the guest here.”

I wiped my hands on a towel, trying to ignore how close he was standing. “It is no trouble. Besides, it is nice having another pair of hands around. Marcus is usually exhausted by the time he gets home.”

Silas chuckled softly. “My brother always worked too hard. Even when we were kids he was the responsible one. I was the one causing trouble.” He stepped a little closer to grab a glass from the...