A commodity trading firm's risk analyst is currently evaluating the supply and demand variables for various commodities and is particularly concerned about potential fluctuations in the forward prices for silver in the upcoming months. As of now, the spot price of silver stands at USD 20.35 per troy ounce, while the 6-month forward price is USD 20.50 per troy ounce. The analyst anticipates that the lease rate will exceed the continuously compounded risk-free interest rate in 6 months. Given this scenario, which of the following statements best describes the anticipated form of the silver forward curve after the 6-month period?