Page 452 of Axis of Fire

Anastasia Lang's POV

While memories from teachers and students shimmered across the night sky, I drifted toward the banquet tables.

So did Ria, Seris, and Pria.

I had just picked up another canapé when a familiar voice beside me made my hand jerk.

I nearly dropped it.

"So..." Tarven said.

"You chose Miloran over me?"

I turned toward him.

He looked... unfairly handsome.

His deep green suit, embroidered with gold, matched my own dress so well that, at first glance, anyone could have mistaken us for a pair.

I immediately shoved that thought aside.

Enough.

My heart had played enough games with my mind.

"What do you mean?" I asked lightly before popping the canapé into my mouth.

A mistake.

It was much larger than I'd expected.

I hurriedly covered my mouth as I struggled not to choke.

"You chose Miloran as your mentor?"

My eyes widened.

"What?"

I barely managed to swallow.

"Where did that come from?"

Without saying a word, Tarven picked up a glass of punch from the table beside us and handed it to me.

I gratefully took a long sip before answering.

"I danced with him."

"Yes."

"He asked."

I shrugged.

"Why would I say no?"

I tried to keep the conversation light.