The lights of Aldren Hall still blazed; many guests would spend the night. The wheels rattled over the road, leading us out into the surrounding farmland, where the world welcomed the full moon. Nocturnal butterflies with shimmering wings fluttered around the straight rows of strawberry plants. Trees and plants alike glowed an eerie deep blue. Hollin wasn’t looking out; he stared at a spot somewhere to the left of me. “You should look outside. I’ve never seen so many butterflies.” I was desperate to start a conversation on some lighthearted matter. “Garden fairies,” Hollin replied, with a rather disinterested glance. “Oh. I’ve never seen them before.” Alive, I added inwardly. “Nimira, I’ve been thinking.” He shifted position, leaning closer to me. “I imagine we’ve both been thinking.” “No, listen. You’re right.
