Isahn stepped up to Nesrina’s side, murmuring, “You look like you could use a dance.”
“Is that an offer?” she replied, trying not to sound too hopeful.
“It most certainly is.” He extended a hand, and she accepted with alacrity, handing her empty flute to a passing server.
She was doing well, close to poised even, until Kas and the beautiful lady walked onto the floor. Rage flash-boiled her blood. He didn’t askherto dance! Instead, he chose someone tall, someone regal, someone whomatchedhim. The crown of Solaelia’s head reached his chin, allowing them to converse sans awkward neck angles as he twirled her strikingly across the floor.
Lord Yaranbur spun Nesrina around, exhibiting impressive patience when she stepped on his feet about thirty-five times.
Kas turned the stunning lady again, and Nes nearly vomited on Isahn.Stomp.
The noblewoman was legitimate, not an untitled interloper operating under the temporary title of Guest of the King. A fire sprung up in her, so intense she had to force herself to focus on the earl’s double-breasted dinner jacket for the rest of the dance, lest she lose control of her magic again... like with the shrubs. Nes scrunched her face in frustration.Stomp.
Isahn grunted.
An eon later, the song ended, and the earl escorted her to the corner of the dance floor, near the door to the king’s private salon. The whole row of patio doors stood open, allowing the evening breeze entry into the packed space. The current of fresh air, helped along by windshifters on staff, did some, but not enough to temper the fire within her.
Her stomach dropped to the floor when she spied her grumpy duke, arm in arm with Lady Tarcadu, disappearing onto the balcony several doors down from where she stood.
Oh, absolutely not.Nesrina recalled herownevening adventure a few years before when Tavid Nithim nearly kissed her before a storm blew inand ruined the moment.Nope. No. No. No.
Finished with the gala in its entirety, she mumbled something to Isahn about feeling unwell, then ducked into the hallway. Nes dashed past the spot where she’d argued with Rihan and continued down the corridor where the king and his sentries had disappeared that first evening. There had to be an exit down there.
After a few more twists and turns, she shoved her way through a glass-paned door and burst into the night. A group of young people enjoying the joyful herb jumped out of her way as she barreled down the road.
I’m done with the glitz. Done, done, done.
twenty-four
Nesrina has a new experience.
KascaughtuptoNesrina halfway between the public building and their inn, his breathing utterly even in spite of the distance he’d jogged.
It irked her, obviously.
“I didn’t realize you were done dancing.”
“I didn’t realize you were done doingwhateverwith Lady Tarcadu.”
He laughed, loudly andather, which incensed her more. She sped up her footsteps, and he broadened his gait.
“We were talking,Nes. Briefly, at that.”
She didn’t believe him.
“You’re quite cute when you’re jealous.”
“Don’t call me that.”
“Jealous?”
“Cute. It’s infantilizing.”
“Adorable, then.”
“It means the same thing.”
“Does it?”
