The palace was a flurry of last-minute activities as everything was readied for my sister’s betrothal ball. I was mentally tired from the council meeting, even though it’d concluded hours before the ball was set to begin, but despite that, I was looking forward to Koraline’s event.
Even though she and I still hadn’t made any progress in our relationship, I’d seen hints of her icy exterior cracking at the meeting, and I was hopeful that it was a step in the right direction.
When I arrived in the ballroom in a stunning navy gown, I was delighted to find that the ambiance was similar to the ball my parents had given to welcome me back into the royal family. The only difference was that instead of the focus being on me, it was on Koraline.
Kole followed behind me, the portrait of a dutiful guard. We hadn’t had time to discuss anything following the council meeting, but he’d been edgy, and his aura had been running high ever since. I had a feeling that had to do with the Council’s newest frightening findings about the potion, and of course, Lady Ryderdim’s disdain of me hadn’t helped matters. Neither had Nathaniel’s appearance.
Not wanting to think about any of that, I focused on the lively atmosphere and endeavored to have a carefree night. Socializing, dancing, and drinking seemed like the perfect way to forget it all.
Hundreds of fae were already present, and Koraline looked stunning in her red silky gown that spilled over her lithe figure like water. Both she and Neb wore coordinated outfits, each having the same dark-scarlet material for their clothing.
I’d convened with Lillith beforehand, happy that a tentative truce had formed between my middle sister and me since the horrible event in the maze. And thankfully, tonight was no exception.
Amidst the candlelight, beautiful flowers, orchestra music, and chatting fae, Lillith tentatively waved to me from across the room. She stood outside on the balcony, visible through the open doors, and my heart soared.
I grinned and waved back, then picked up my skirts so I could join her.
But before I could, Kole clasped my arm gently from behind. “No going outside tonight.”
I spun toward him, my smile dimming. “What? Why?”
“I want you to stay inside. Nighttime is already here.”
I frowned and stole another glance over my shoulder at Lillith. She’d joined another group of nobles and was busy chatting with them. Behind them, the night sky shone bright and vibrantly amidst the lawn décor.
Frowning, I addressed Kole again. “But the maze has been left alone. The spellcasters haven’t altered anything, and my parents told me that Koraline and Neb’s engagement is to be announced outside. Apparently, Koraline specifically requested that.” I tried to contain the hurt that wanted to flow through me. After all, Koraline knew the restrictions that’d been placed upon me at nighttime, but she’d still specifically chosen the outdoorsarea for their official announcement. However, that detail was decided a week ago, and today, I could have sworn that she’d begun to look at me differently following the testimonies, so I tried to take heart in that.
Kole’s expression stayed stoic. “Even so, stay inside.”
I fiddled with the navy sash on my gown. “But the wards are holding. Right? Surely, it’ll be okay just for this one time?”
Kole’s eyes blazed, and as had been the case all day, his aura strummed even higher. “Yes, the wards are holding, but I’m not taking any chances. You’re to stay inside.”
I stilled at the authority in Kole’s tone.
Kole glanced over my shoulder toward the balcony, and I could have sworn that his eyes glowed slightly. Laughter rang from the outdoor area. Frowning, I followed his line of sight.
Nathaniel and several of his friends had joined Lillith, and Kole was glaring at the young lordling.
A flash of annoyance raced through me, not just at Kole but ateverything. My entire situation was growing so suffocating. I’d just wanted one night.One nightin which I could enjoy myself and act normal. It didn’t seem like too much to ask.
I arched an eyebrow at my Imperial Warrior. “Is concern for the creatures theonlyreason you don’t want me outside?”
Kole’s jaw tightened slightly, but other than that, his expression didn’t move. But I had a feeling that was simply because other fae were around. Consequently, hisvery-Kolemask had fallen into place.
“Yes,” he replied simply.
“And when was this decision made?” I asked sweetly and nabbed a flute of champagne from a floating tray. Just as quickly, I uncorked a vial and dropped a bit of my potion into the beverage to ensure it was safe to consume.
“I’m just doing my job, Princess,” he all but growled.
Nostrils flaring, I glanced at the lordling again. Nathaniel still stood with several other nobles, and somehow, I managed to suppress an eyeroll. “And is your decision entirely about my safety, or does it also have something to do with you not wanting me to enjoy the outdoors with any potential suitors?”
Kole’s aura flamed higher, but when he replied, his voice was controlled. “Lordling Ryderdim wants you, Primelle. Do you know how many times he’s looked at you since you appeared in the ballroom?”
“I’m afraid I don’t,” I replied with mocking sweetness.
The warrior stepped closer to me. “Well, I do. He’s already looked at you six times, and I can scent his interest in you, even from here.”
