You wake in the middle of the night. The room is dim, lit only the stars outside of the express’s window.

A certain presence beside your bed makes you practically jump out of your skin.

Evernight is standing at the edge of your bed. Her hands are folded neatly in her lap. Her empty red eyes are open, fixed straight ahead.

You can’t help but question her appearance in your room this late at night

She offers you a smile, one that’s admittedly a little off-putting. “I don’t need to sleep right now. I’m keeping watch over you.”

She tilts her head when she notices you stirring. The light catches in her eyes, but doesn’t brighten them like they did March’s. Unwavering, they stay on you.

You lift the blanket, leaving a space beside you in invitation. She looks at it for a moment, then shifts slowly. The mattress dips as she lies down with deliberate care. Her posture remains rigid, hands lie close to yours.

Her eyes stay open in the dark. “I will remain awake,” she murmurs, “until you no longer need me.”