Along with Madity’s necklace, I still wear my commitment gift from Sebastian. Devlan only asked me about it once, right after we buried the former prince of Karm beside his father near the Outside compound. I grasped it in my palm, stared down at the newly made grave, and explained that it’s a reminder. That even the best of intentions can be lost if you allow this world to corrupt you.
And privately, for me, the lock of hair inside is a reminder of the boy who had visions and dreams, of who Sebastian was and could’ve been.
I smile, looking at our baby behind the boulder. Luckily, the cannibal didn’t have time to ruin anything.
“It’s grown.” I squat down and hold out the wrapped seed. “Where should I place this?”
Devlan balances on the balls of his feet near me, running his finger along the green leaves of our tiny apple tree. “About six feet away,” he says. “Let’s keep them close so they can have company.” He gives me his gorgeous smile.
I scoop out the dry dirt, about six inches deep, then open my canteen and wet the earth. Placing the seed in the hole, I look up into Devlan’s blue eyes. He helps me fill in the hole, his hand resting on top of mine after I pack the dirt tightly. I lace my fingers through his, and the mix of cool earth and his warmth sends shivers along my skin.
Maybe one day we’ll ride out here and the dirt will have a fresh patch of grass. Or our trees will thrive, bearing fruit in a barren world. Until then, I’ll savor every moment of hope the world allots me.
And I’ll bask in every unguarded smile Devlan gifts me.
For however long we thrive.