His sombre gaze swiftly shifted to evaluate the situation ahead. Their carriage was positioned sideways in a snowy ditch, with one of its wheels lying detached nearby. It appeared more severe than it actually was; she was grateful that they both emerged largely unscathed.
Molly sensed the penetrating chill of the air infiltrate her bones; she embraced herself and surveyed the surroundings. A layer of snow enveloped the landscape as far as she could perceive. On trees, shrubs, and particularly the soil. There were no discernible paths visible; only an expanse of snow extending aimlessly for miles. They were evidently either in proximity to the north or had already traversed the border during her slumber. She must have slept significantly longer than she initially anticipated for it to already be daylight.
“The carriage collided with a snow-covered fallen tree, which we did not perceive until it was too late,” the guard replied. Molly observed for the first time their casual attire, resembling that of ordinary travellers in dark, drab coats and beige trousers. Typically, the royal guard was adorned in elaborate attire to symbolise the palace. Molly believed she had never encountered a guard in any attire other than his uniform.
“What is the estimated duration until we can resume our journey?” Prince Jayce enquired, casting a glance at Molly before surveying the surroundings. It appeared that no one else was present for miles. The further one ventured north, the greater the peril became.
“We anticipate completing the repairs by the end of the hour. This location serves as an excellent opportunity to pause for a meal before proceeding. We may not have another opportunity to rest for an extended period.”
Prince Jayce subdued his voice. “Have they conducted a search of the vicinity for any individuals present?”
“They have. There are no indications of anyone in proximity, yet we must continue to exercise caution and maintain silence,” the man replied. Molly desired to know their names, but she infrequently encountered the royal guard at the palace. She presumed they were disinclined to introduce themselves. It would be beneficial to ascertain their designation should she require it.
“Very well, let us dine.” Prince Jayce pivoted, and the remaining guards advanced simultaneously as though they had been anticipating his command. A number of guards promptly repositioned the carriage upright, while others prepared a space for Prince Jayce to recuperate. The remaining guards maintained their vigil as inconspicuously as possible, avoiding any appearance of their official roles. To Molly, it was unfeasible. They distinctly exhibited the demeanour of guards rather than that of casual travellers.
“Molly, I would appreciate your assistance in preparing some food for distribution.” A younger guard with a kind visage approached her. Molly smiled and affirmed with a nod. “I am called James.”
“Molly is meant to rest, not assist you,” interrupted Prince Jayce. She turned to find him positioned behind her, his gaze directed at the guard. “If you have already forgotten, she has just emerged from a wrecked carriage.”
“Certainly, sir! I mean—Jayce. Absolutely.” James quickly bowed to both of them. “I regret implying otherwise. I was not considering.”
Prince Jayce merely gazed at him until he swiftly departed. “I could have assisted—” Molly began, but her words faltered when their gazes locked.
“You ought to sit for a minute.” His tone resembled a command, prompting her to frown involuntarily. Recently, the tip of her tongue yearned to retort, yet she consistently restrained herself just in time.
Molly froze as he unexpectedly extended his hand to remove the snow from her hair. His fingers hesitated briefly before he ultimately returned his hand to his side as though the action had never occurred. It startled her to the extent that all her thoughts dissipated, along with any words she might have wished to express.
“I will sit.” She exhaled and proceeded to recline on a log that had recently been cleared of snow. Her hand throbbed, yet she could scarcely perceive anything beyond the encroaching numbness that began to envelop her body. At least nothing else was damaged.
The clearing was tranquil; she could discern the crunching of snow beneath the feet of passersby, but little else. The cold air reddened her cheeks and rendered her fingers nearly blue. She placed her hands under her arms and observed her breath condense in the air.
“For what duration have we been traveling?” she enquired. She could perceive his presence behind her; she need not turn to confirm his existence.
“It is now midday,” he stated calmly.
Molly swiftly glanced upward at him. “Was I unconscious for that duration?”
Prince Jayce merely inclined his chin in affirmation. Molly averted her gaze and rubbed her hands together, attempting to suppress her chattering teeth. Her pain had temporarily diminished; perhaps the cold was beneficial in that regard. She eagerly anticipated returning to the warm carriage and escaping the harsh wind.
A gentle burden descended upon her shoulders following a brief silence. His black cloak enveloped her cheeks, prompting her to instinctively seek solace in the fabric. Upon turning to express her gratitude, she found him already midway across the clearing.
She shut her eyes and grasped it firmly, emitting a soft sigh. The warmth was a privilege; she could not comprehend how he would relinquish it. He may have been warm-blooded and thus not required additional warmth; however, she was sceptical given the current weather conditions. What reason would he have to give it to her specifically?
James visited to present her with a plate of desiccated fruit and bread. Molly expressed her gratitude, saying, “Thank you, James,” with a smile.
“You’re welcome, Molly,” he remarked with a playful grin. “I trust the carriage accident did not cause you significant harm.”
“Regrettably, I believed it would, but I do not believe I have sustained any injuries.”
“It is likely due to the influence Jayce exerted over you; he must have absorbed the majority of the impact.” James directed his gaze towards Prince Jayce, and Molly followed his line of sight, observing him engaged in conversation with another individual. James cleared his throat. “Please inform me if you require any further assistance.”
