It took him a moment to remember that he was sleeping on the floor. Then he realised that there was a hand on his shoulder, shaking him gently. “What?” “Shhhh,” Titus whispered in his ear. “Keep quiet.” Zane did as he was asked for a moment before whispering, “What’s wrong?” “Shhhh.” The room was utterly silent, as were the square and garden outside. That was normal since the boys had grown up in a London that was quiet, save the sounds of wildlife. They knew nothing different. Then a noise rang out through the darkness, tensing all of Zane’s muscles in an instant. He recognised that metallic clang. “The Giant!” he gasped and sat bolt upright, fumbling desperately for the matches and candle that were always at his bedside. “Giant?” Titus hissed under his breath. “What are you talking about?” Zane struck a match, lighting a candle that revealed the fear on his face and Titus sitting on the edge of the bed. Zane checked that his curtains were completely shut, afraid that the candlelight might escape and attract the Giant to his house.
