I dropped my gaze to the marble between my shoes. I held it there until I could lift my head again without showing what my Tiger had just done to me.
Thank you, Tora.
Still standing by the doorway, I scanned the rest of the space.
Beyond the claw, there were smaller tables spread outward in careful spacing, round, intimate, built for quieter conversations and softer laughter. Tall vases held orchids and black roses. Branches of gilded bamboo rose from the centerpieces.
The scent of the room wrapped around me, amber and plum from my Tiger's presence, bright citrus from the florals, savory warmth from the food that was soon to come.
The Great Gatsby had stepped into my island mansion and bowed to my Tora.
My eyes tracked further along the ceiling. Along two full sides of the ballroom, massive draping poured from the rafters to the floor. Black silk threaded with gold shimmer. They hung inheavy folds, concealing sections of the room the way a magician hid the final trick.
I narrowed my eyes.
What else have you built, Tora?
I walked forward.
Reo kept my pace beside me.
I sighed. “When the Fangs see this, they will demand a party."
"They will."
"Everyone is already asking too much of her."
"My recommendation is to get used to it."
I frowned.
Reo's voice stayed even. "She gives a lot. It is her gift. It is also her weakness."
"If the Fangs ask for a party, she will fucking give it to them."
"Likely."
I let out a long breath through my nose.
“Well.” Reo cleared his throat. "Keep in mind thatmybirthday is next month."
I slowed my pace, turned my head slowly, and stared at him. "Not you too."
"I am only saying."
"You are not getting a party, Reo."
"I said nothing about a party." He gave me a warm smile and then put his gaze back on the huge claw. "I just think that. . .surely the Heart would want to do something special for the Roar.”
Oh fuck.
Reo continued, “A small gathering.”
I shook my head.
“A cheese party, perhaps. Nothing extravagant. Very intimate and thoughtful."
"A cheese party?"
