Page 129 of Death of the Glass Angel
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Janus
Seven years ago. . .
Eros’s long scarf trailed over the stairs behind him, threatening to trip Janus as she chased after her little brother. Boundless enthusiasm hastened Eros’s step as he raced up to the rooftop—an enthusiasm Janus’ tired legs did not share.
Atop the palace roof, they could see the lake and surrounding desert stretch for miles. Standing on the edge beside Eros, Janus gazed up into the night sky, excited.
Evander joined them a few minutes later, walking at a leisurely pace as he reached over and fixed Eros’ scarf.
Tucking his dark locks behind his ears, Evander peered down at Janus. “Made a decision yet?”
“No,” Janus said. “I’m still thinking.”
“How about you, Eros?” Evander asked.
“Huh?” Eros looked up at Evander. “Oh. No, not yet.”
Sighing, Evander finished looping Eros’ scarf properly before sitting, dangling his feet over the edge. Grabbing Eros, Janus pulled him down beside her.
“Ten minutes.” Evander announced, checking his pocket watch, “Think quickly.”
Pulling Eros closer, Janus stared at the eldest Vallides child. “What’s yours?”
“I don’t have one,” Evander admitted.
“Why not?”
“I’m already perfect.” He said cheekily.
“Hm.” Eros’s cheeks puffed. “Feels like you’re setting a bad example.”
“Or a good one.” Evander laughed and gazed at Janus expectantly.
“I’ll make a simple one.” Janus shrugged. “I’ll keep my room clean from now on.”
“An admirable goal, but. . .” Evander tugged at the ends of his cloak. “Unlikely, I think.”
“That’s why it’s a resolution.” Janus dropped her cheek into her hand, eyes glued to the moon.
A few minutes passed them by, the wind rustling their cloaks and scarves. Eros drummed his fingers on his lap, pink eyes brightening.
“I’ve got it,” Eros said proudly. “I’m going to make life better for everyone in Thuatia.”
Evander raised his eyebrows. “Oh, is that all?”
“Well, I haven’t figured out how yet.” Eros frowned. “But I’ve got plenty of time left to muss out the details.”
Janus snorted. “You don’t even sleep in your own room.”
“That’s different. That’s because the night is scary.”
A sad smile graced Evander’s face, and he glanced at Janus. She shook her head, smiling.
Eros noticed their silent communication. “Don’t look away. You’ll miss it.”
Pulling out his pocket watch again, Evander held it out so the three could watch the time tick by.
