When Silco had taken you and Powder in after Powder’s—what was originally viewed to be helpful—invention had killed Mylo, Claggor, and Vander, forcing Vi to abandon you and her, mainly because you had assisted her in it despite having an aching feeling that something would go wrong, you weren’t all that…Secure around Silco like Powder—Jinx was…

You were older than her after all. You heard more of the stories about him, understood he was part of the reason why all of this happened, but you couldn’t let Jinx go alone at the time…And, you were desperate—desperate for shelter and somewhat of safety. Despite how cautious and nervous you always were around Silco, even though he never raised his hand at you or spoke to you harshly.

You figured it was only because Jinx wouldn’t be too happy. You were all she had left after all. But clearly, Silco wasn’t oblivious to your remaining fear, especially since it never wavered when you grew older.

When he’d make you inject the shimmer into his eye when Jinx wasn’t available, you’d tremble in fear just from being so close to him, trying your hardest not to look into his other one that was intently watching you. When he’d praise you for a job well done or pat your head, you wouldn’t grin like Jinx would—not even a small smile, instead keeping a straight face and sometimes jerking away from him. At this point, you likely trusted Sevika more than him.

“You’re very odd.”

His raspy, cold voice rung out from behind you, grabbing your attention as you spun to face him with a hostile look which then softened at the sight of him. But remained there nonetheless.

Silco remained unfazed as he continued, expression blank, “Even after I gave you shelter and took care of you at your lowest, you still remain so cautious and frightened around me. Like a doe. I am not your enemy anymore—believe it or not, I care for you as much as I care for Jinx. As much as Vander cared for you.” The last sentence that rolled off his tongue caused you to stiffen, quickly looking away as your breathing began to quicken.

All the voices in your head were telling you he was lying, and that he’ll kill you the minute he has to. But in reality, Silco truly did care for you. No matter how scared or hostile of him you were, he loved you like a father.