she looked much better than she had a few weeks ago , he thought , hugging her back . they traveled the hall leading straight from the gate to the center , passing hall after hall . in case you had n't noticed , there 's a draft in effect . '' she felt a strong hand on her arm keeping her from falling . the guards stood awkwardly at the entrance , their pikes raised . he laughed softly , holding the warm smile in place , and i leaned toward him like a flower to sunlight . 