Page 94 of The Duke’s Bloody Bargain

“Politeness? Nothing more?” I tilted my head, trying to catch her gaze.

“Nothing more. You know what I think of men.” She tugged her long gloves over her arms. “You can play with them, be friendly with them, but that’s it. They’re all beasts, and Darius is no exception.”

Her aura changed shape, forming a few tendrils.

“You’re lying, and I don’t understand why. There’s nothing wrong with admitting he isn’t a beast. You know he isn’t.”

She was flustered. “Yes, well, he isn’t a beast. I’ll grant him that. But I haven’t changed my mind about men as a whole. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’ll see if Lucy has improved.”

When she left the room, surrounded by her crimson aura, she almost bumped into Alex.

“Careful.” He steadied her by taking her shoulders.

She stiffened. “I’m always careful, Ravenhill.” She strode away.

“What happened?” He stepped inside. “She sounded as sweet as an adder.”

“Nothing. Just Myrtha being her old self.” I spun around, letting my skirt shimmer. “What do you think?”

“I say! You’re stunning.” He wrapped his arms around me. “As always.”

“You look dashing yourself.”

His evening black tailcoat and freshly pressed trousers heightened his strong build and handsome face, and the white waistcoat created the perfect contrast of colours. The scent of bergamot, wafting from his skin, added the final touch of elegance.

“It’s the first time I’ve worn an evening suit.” He fixed his white bow tie. “I feel like an idiot.”

“You shouldn’t. You’re very handsome, and tonight is going to be a success.”

The Fair Court and the Moon Court had been invited along with other peers of the Dark Court who didn’t live at Raven Hall. There were wizards, witches, and other supernatural beings; some of them weren’t affiliated with any court.

We went downstairs together, hand in hand, side by side. The hall was crowded with footmen ushering the guests to the drawing room.

It took a ridiculous amount of time to welcome everyone. My facial muscles hurt from smiling, and the words ‘I’m delighted to have you here’ kept echoing in my head even after I’d finished welcoming guests.

Alex had stopped pretending to be delighted after the fifth or so guest.

I rubbed my cheek. “The ball hasn’t started yet, but I’m already tired.”

“You’ll feel better when we dance.”

The ballroom looked like a starry sky with its large windows sparkling and the polished marble floor. Darius had conjured silver lights that were floating close to the ceiling. The effect was multiplied by the mirrors on the walls. Lilies and roses filled every corner, and the orchestra played a beautiful tune.

The wilis were dressed in stunning white gowns that emitted a glow. Their auras were the brightest in the room, shining yellow with happiness. I’d been to balls in my mortal life, but none had been so lavish and majestic.

Fiona almost ran towards us, her gaze on Alex. “Your Grace,” she said in a serious tone. “You and Mr. Strange are…” She took a deep breath. “I misjudged you. I understand now that you care for all of us. Thank you.”

I gently poked Alex in the ribs because he didn’t say anything.

He coughed into his fist. “You’re welcome. Er, peace and harmony are our mission for a better and stronger Dark Court.”

I forced myself not to laugh.

Fiona brightened. “You’re succeeding, Your Grace.” She walked to the other wilis, radiating happiness.

Alex held me close, and I rested my head on his chest. He didn’t shiver anymore when we touched. Not a twitch.

When the notes of Vienna Blood began, he stood in front of me.