Chapter 17

The next day. "Nova, look at me." Silas' voice came from behind, that same sickening whiny tone that made my stomach twist. I didn't turn around. I slid the key into the lock and twisted hard. Even the clanging of metal sounded better than listening to him. He followed me into the tavern like I couldn't get rid of him. I started setting up chairs, wiping down tables, deliberately making noise with every movement, letting him feel my irritation. "Nova, just hear me out—" "I've had enough." I slammed a table so hard it rattled. "I don't want to hear a single word from you." He froze, standing by the bar, staring at me. I picked up a rag and started scrubbing the counter with force. His breathing, his smell, and even the way his eyes clung to me made my skin crawl. "I know I was wrong, Nova. I've figured everything out…" I slammed the rag down onto the counter. "Silas," I finally turned to face him. I tugged at the corner of my mouth. "What does that have to do with me? What