Chapter 15
15
T he brisk sound of knocking causes me to nearly fall out of the window seat and land flat on my ass. I recover in time to see Igrid standing before me with a wicked grin on her face.
“Igrid! You’re here. Thank god.”
“Look at you, missy!” She does a spin, taking in the room. “Quite a step up from the servant’s quarters, isn’t it?”
She pauses, looking over me. “There’s something different about you.” Her eyes touch on my newly pointed ears, and she gasps, clapping two freckled hands over her bow lips.
“It’s a glamour. Over another glamour.” I roll my eyes and finger the arched tip absently. “I have a lot to tell you.”
Taking up my seat at the window, I pat the empty space beside me. Igrid listens as I recap the events of the last few days, including our meeting with the king and his council this morning. I know this information is supposed to remain confidential, but Igrid is my friend and she already knows so much.
“I’m supposed to go to this ball tonight, I guess.” I lean my head back and gaze at the snowy mountain peak ten feet from my window.
“For Prince Kai,” she assents, her eyes bright. “I’m told he is quite handsome.”
“I’ve never been to a ball in my life. The closest I’ve gotten is prom. And I hated it so much I left after five minutes.”
“Your first time appearing before the entire court.” She sighs dreamily. “We’ll need to make you look your best.”
“Good luck with that. I haven’t plucked my eyebrows in three weeks, and I probably have a mustache.”
“Oh, you haven’t met my friends, missy. They’re nothing short of miracle workers.” Her copper brows waggle at me. “Come on. Let’s get you into the bath and then we’ll work our magic.”
Igrid leaves me to bathe, my sore hips and inner thighs releasing their tension as I soak. When I emerge in the silky bathrobe, Igrid and two other maids are waiting in my bedroom.
I’m sat in a chair, and every square inch of my body is waxed. My skin stings from where it has been ripped raw, but then a pink-tinged lotion is applied to my naked body, and the redness and irritation disappear.
“They definitely don’t have this stuff at European Wax Center,” I mutter.
My hair is styled into a gorgeous half-updo, falling over my chest in tight waves that remind me of a medieval maiden’s. Tiny diamonds are woven throughout like little stars among a dark sky of silken tresses.
I’m sprayed with the most intoxicating perfume I’ve ever smelled—something smokey and sweet. I notice that even my skin looks brighter—more luminescent—as I’m gently eased into the gown with utmost care.
The neutral-colored corset is strapless, fitted through the waist and hips before pooling out around my ankles. Every inch of the dress is encrusted with tiny, iridescent beads that shimmer beneath the light. Whimsical vines peek out from beneath the strip of gossamer fabric stretched diagonally from shoulder to hip. With the dress just a few shades lighter than my tan skin, one might mistake me for being naked at first glance. But upon further inspection, I look like I belong to the elements, to the ether.
I gasp as I take in my reflection, surveying the dramatic winged liner, the shimmering iridescent powder dusted along my cheeks, and the full, mauve-tinged lips.
I’ve never looked more beautiful and probably never will again.
Usually when I look in the mirror, I see about a hundred things I wish I could change about myself—my slightly crooked button nose, the deep color of my brown eyes, the little bit of softness around my hips that always leaves me feeling self-conscious.
But studying myself now, I feel beautiful. I feel fae.
“You three deserve a raise.” I turn to the females, beaming.
Igrid claps her hands and bounces in place while the other two break into slow grins. She slides a pair of sheer fingerless gloves over my manicured hands and adjusts my dangling, vine-shaped earrings.
“You’re ready,” she says proudly. There’s a soft knock on the door to the adjoining suite.
“Zadyn?” I call.
He props the door open and leans into the jamb, studying me. My cheeks flush under his assessment, but I relax when he smirks in approval, one dimple making itself known at the corner of his lips.
“Nice work,” he says to the three fae beside me, his eyes holding mine .
“Did you just get back?” I ask, smoothing the material at my thighs.
“A few minutes ago. I’ll be fast.”
Two knocks sound from the outside door.
“Come in,” I call. I immediately regret the decision when I see who stands there.
Jace is resplendent in what looks to be a royal guard’s uniform—a black jacket with a high collar and thick silver embroidery, and matching pants with a silver stripe down the seam. On his sleeve is a silver royal crest, and at his side hangs a sheathed sword. He looks handsome and regal.
His golden gaze devours me.
“Well, don’t you look fae?” he purrs.
I can’t look away, can’t even find words. I can sense the others’ tension, but I can’t break the spell.
“Are you ready?” he asks.
“Yes, but Zadyn—” I glance over and see the way he’s eyeing Jace.
“Doesn’t seem to be ready,” Jace supplies. “I’ll escort you. He can meet us there.”
Zadyn looks back to me. “Go. I’ll be there shortly.”
I square my shoulders and take Jace’s extended hand. His warmth spreads through me, heating my naked arms and face. He wraps my gloved hand around the crook of his arm, and I fight the urge to squeeze down on his muscles.
“If you play this right, you might fool everyone,” he says quietly as we make our way downstairs to the party. I glance up at him and he quickly looks away. But not before I catch his eyes skimming over my neckline and lower. “You certainly look the part.”
“Can any of your compliments not be backhanded?”
“I wasn’t complimenting you.” His voice is flat.
“Oh well, fuck me, I guess. ”
His head whips around to me so fast I think it’s going to fly off. The shock on his face is priceless.
“It’s an expression,” I explain quickly. “It’s just something people say in my world when someone is being a dick.”
“I think you’re the only one being a dick here.”
“Oh, good, at least you know what that word means.”
“Insufferable,” he mutters, glowering at me.
“The feeling is mutual,” I snap back in a hushed voice.
We continue in silence until we reach the Grand Hall, a room over half the size of a football field. We stand at the arching, open doorway, and I drink in the warm decadence waiting on the other side.
Tall candelabras are scattered throughout the space, dousing the room in a soft glow. Crystalline chandeliers hover over the lavish settees, chairs, and nooks scattered around the perimeter of the large dance floor. Tables and towers of endless refreshments, colorful drinks, and desserts line the walls. But most arresting is the sea of beautiful fae dressed in outrageously extravagant finery. The guests sport strange and lovely fashions one would see at the Met Gala—their outfits closer to works of art than to clothing.
It's a vision. A vision from a beautiful, beautiful dream.
We make our way over to one of the drink tables, and Jace picks up a glass of water.
“Being boring tonight?” I ask as I wiggle my fingers over a flute of fizzy pink liquid. “I’m guessing this has alcohol in it?”
“You’d be correct in that assumption.”
I pick it up and take a tentative sip. It’s possibly the best thing I’ve ever tasted. I wonder if it has a lot of sugar in it. Maybe calories don’t count when you find yourself in an alternate universe.
We stand together in silence for a few moments, taking in the wild throng around us, the triumphant orchestra playing from a small stage beside the dance floor. Unable to resist, I take a few more sips from my glass, then dare a look up at him.
“You know, you’re much better looking when you don’t talk,” I say lightly, tipping the glass to my lips.
He eyes me, then the drink in my hands. “Careful with that stuff.” His disinterested gaze flickers back to the storm of ballgowns swirling around the dance floor. “It’s known to loosen tongues.”
“My tongue’s already loose,” I boast, swirling the liquid in my glass. “Loose as a goose.”
Glancing down at me with knitted eyebrows, he says, “I meant it lowers one’s inhibitions. Makes you more susceptible to being truthful.”
“Not unlike our liquor back home.”
“I’m guessing this stuff is slightly stronger.” He peeks down and that’s when I notice my chest brushing up against his arm. It dawns on me that I’ve been leaning into him. I spring back quickly, facing forward as my cheeks burn.
“I lost my balance,” I lie as he chuckles haughtily. “Don’t let it go to your already massive head.”
“Don’t be embarrassed. You’re not the first female to press up against me. Certainly won’t be the last.”
“I was not pressing up against you—” My protest is cut short when I see the crowd turning to the majestic white carpeted staircase toward the back of the room.
The music halts, and a steward announces the king, queen, and princess as they appear under the gilded archway. The princess looks stunning in a rosy silk gown with flowers spilling over the bodice and down the length of the full skirt. The long sleeves are set off the shoulder, revealing her delicate neck and luminous skin. Her honey-brown hair is braided and curled around her sparkling tiara. She looks like spring personified .
I glance at Jace, who seems to be watching her descent with bated breath.
The music resumes once they reach the dais at the bottom of the steps, where four silver thrones wait. The princess sits, and the three pretty fae females I recognize from the dining room materialize at her side.
“Time to meet the princess. Officially,” Jace says, turning to me.
My heart starts galloping. “Shouldn’t we wait for Z—” I start, but a gentle touch at my elbow cuts me off.
“Here,” he says breathlessly, like he just ran here. His smile is dazzling, revealing a full set of perfectly white teeth.
“Hi,” I say stupidly. He notices the pink drink in my hand, and his face falls. “You got into the Poison, huh?”
“Poison?” I spit.
“That’s what we call it. Pink Poison. It’s not actually dangerous. I mean, it is if you ingest an ungodly amount, but even then, you’ll just pass out and wake up with your head in a toilet,” he clarifies.
“I’m gonna be honest, guys,” I begin, a grimace taking over my face as I glance between the two of them. “I really don’t want to do this.”
“Do what?” Jace asks.
“See my sis—” I catch myself. “Princess. See the princess.”
Nice save, idiot.
“Well, you’re going to have to get over that, since you are now one of her ladies,” Jace insists.
I let out a whiny whimper.
“Let’s just get it over with,” Zadyn suggests softly. Jace wraps a fist around my bicep, tugging me forward. I dig my heels into the floor and pull back.
“Do I have to stand there with her the whole night?” I complain .
“Dear gods, you are a child .”
And to prove his point, I stick my tongue out at him. He yanks me forward abruptly and growls in my face.
“Put your tongue back in your mouth,” he growls, baring his teeth. Zadyn places a firm hand on his chest and glowers at him.
“I suggest you take a step back.” He doesn’t move. “Did you forget that your job is to protect her, not rip her throat out?”
“I think he’d rather throttle me,” I tease, staring up into those intense eyes. He rips his hand away swiftly and swings it toward the dais.
“After you, my lady ,” he sneers. I give him a phony smile and brush past him, making my way toward the dais, flanked by the two males. Jace steps around me and bows his head.
“Your Majesties,” he addresses the three royals before us. “I’d like to present the Lady Serena Accostia and Lord Rhodes of Cardynia.”
Curtsy , Jace mouths to me, and I cross my legs and dip into a pathetic half bow, half squat. I can almost feel his eyes rolling.
“Lady Serena and Lord Rhodes, meet Her Majesty, Queen Ilspeth Triori Accostia, and Her Grace, the Crown Princess Sorscha Accostia.”
The queen inclines her head before directing her alluring gaze back to the bustling dance floor. Sam—Sorscha—stands in one fluid motion and takes a step toward me. I am rooted to the spot.
“Cousin!” She flings her slender arms around my neck and squeezes gently. I freeze, shoulders tensing before repaying her with an awkward pat on the back. She pulls back, beaming, her features made even more lovely by her radiant smile.
“I’m so glad to make your acquaintance. My apologies for not visiting you sooner. I only just learnt of your arrival. But here you are! And to stay, I hear. I am thrilled. We shall be great friends.” Her eyes skim over my dress as she shakes her head.
“You are an Accostia indeed.” Slipping me a wink of approval, she ushers me toward the females behind her. “You must meet my ladies.”
The three fae curtsy with devastating grace. I try to mimic the motion but fail miserably.
“This is Ilsa, Marideth, and Clemence—Cece for short.”
Ilsa, the slightest of the three ladies, is spritely and fine-boned. Her features are small and elvish, with large, round hazel eyes and pin-straight hair that falls to her waist. The auburn-haired Marideth is tall and lean, with cool gray eyes. Her face is unusual, but striking in its singularity. Clemence is devastating, giving even the princess a run for her money. Her body is that of a goddess, slender with perfect curves. Brilliant curls fall in golden tumbles over her shoulders and the rich green of her gown complements the wide-set eyes of a similar jade. High cheekbones and a plump upper lip complete the masterpiece. I instantly hate her.
“How—how do you do?” I fumble over my words. The ladies all give polite smiles that tell me there will be a full pow-wow after hours to talk shit about me.
“Are you enjoying the celebration, dear cousin?” asks the king coolly. Ilspeth shoots him a look.
“Very much. It’s—” I’m at a loss for words. “Far grander than anything I’ve attended at home.”
He and I share a knowing smirk.
“Where is home again?” The queen leans her chin on her delicate palm and fixes her sharp gaze on me. I wonder if she recognizes me from that day in the throne room. If she does, then she doesn’t let on. The king tenses ever so slightly.
“She’s northern, my love,” he supplies. “She was raised at a temple with her late mother. ”
“Yes,” I agree, struggling to lie convincingly. I shoot Zadyn a look.
Save me, please.
“And Lord Rhodes, I’m sure the ladies of court will be both overjoyed and devastated by your presence here,” Sorscha says with a sickening amount of charm.
“You flatter me, Princess.” He bows his head gallantly. “The honor is mine.”
Sorscha turns to me again.
“There is much we must discuss. Come to tea tomorrow. But for now, let us dance and celebrate. Prince Kai is as skilled a dancer as they come.” She holds my hands and squeezes. I manage a laugh of relief.
My sister and I don’t speak, but in this world, I have a chance to be friends with her replica. Even if this isn’t Sam, it feels like a free shot at a redo. I know that’s what my dad would want. I smile at her.
“Second, only to the captain, of course,” she modifies, tossing him a look over my shoulder.
“Really?” I can’t help but blurt out.
“Don’t look so surprised.” The “ witch ” is spoken only in his eyes.
“Princess,” Jace says, earning her gaze as he extends a hand. “Would you do me the honor?” His kind tone is vastly different from the one he uses with me. She places her delicate hand in his.
“The pleasure is mine, Captain. Cousin.” She nods to me in departure as they stride to the dance floor.
I look to Zadyn, unsure if we’re supposed to stand here and make small talk with the unsocial queen and the princess’s pretty acolytes.
“Go,” says the king, gesturing to the sea of graceful bodies. “Enjoy the evening. ”
I nod to him gratefully before Zadyn leads me to the dance floor. He pulls me into his arms, one hand resting against my lower back and the other clasping mine.
“I’m not sure I can dance in this dress,” I warn him.
“Indulge me.” He smirks, shrugging.? *
I roll my eyes but move my hand to his shoulder. I try to keep up with his waltzing, but between my coordination skills and the Pink Poison, I’m about as graceful as a baby deer.
“I learned some interesting facts on the hunt earlier.”
“Really?” I ask, gazing up at him. Even in the heels, he’s got at least a foot on me. “That’s great! I knew you’d make a good man on the inside . What did you learn?” He rolls his eyes but bends his head to whisper in my ear. I try to ignore the tingle that spreads down my spine when his breath meets my skin.
“Gossip, mostly. The queen wants to marry Sorscha off to one of her sons. Preferably the second. The first is already King of Vod and refuses to take a wife. Kai is a highly sought-after bachelor, but he’s also a notorious ladies’ man.”
“The queen wants to marry Sorscha to her step-brother? That’s weird. I’m guessing the king doesn’t approve?”
“I think the prince’s stay is going to be the deciding factor. Kai and Sorscha have been friends since childhood, but he only comes to court every few years to visit. With Sorscha next in line for the throne, this would be a power move for Vod. A king in their stronghold and king consort in Aegar.”
He spins me around and pulls me close again. I try to catch my breath.
“I hate to say this—” I glance over to see Jace twirling Sorscha effortlessly as she stares up into his eyes. They both look like they were made for the dance floor, and I nearly lose my train of thought watching their grace. “But she doesn’t seem like the ruler type. She seems like a princess in every definition of the word.”
“I agree. And I think the king does, too. From what I gleaned, he’s reluctant toward the match but is trying to remain realistic about his daughter’s capabilities. She’s a High Fae royal, which means if she marries and performs the Bloodfast ceremony with her spouse, she will come into massive generational power. But the king questions her ability to lead. Not that Kai would make a much better ruler. There have been numerous conversations with the council over this. They don’t have faith in her leadership. But unless the king can find a suitable option soon, Sorscha will be engaged to the prince before he starts his journey back to Vod.”
I imagine the situation of having to wed someone for political gain. Not for love. Not even for a green card. How sad it must be.
“And Gronwen and Conwell just handed over this information willingly?” I ask doubtfully.
Zadyn shrugs. “I think they like to gossip.”
“Do you think they’re trustworthy? The council?” Zadyn guides me through the steps of the dance. “They know a lot about my…situation. And Lord Gronwen—something feels off with him.”
“I don’t know if I trust any of them yet. But I think you’re right about spending time with them. I’d rather have my enemies close, if that’s what they are.” He spins me out, and at the last second, when I think I might lose my balance and go flying, he jerks me back in and catches me in a low dip. My breath whooshes out of me as I stare up at him, wide-eyed and wonder-struck.
“But the king trusts them. So there’s also that to consider,” he says in conclusion .
“You’re good at this,” I say in surprise as he pulls me to stand. The music finishes, and the crowd begins to applaud.
“I had nearly two hundred years of practice before I found myself in a world whose definition of dancing is gyrating and grinding.”
I laugh. “I know, us earthlings are so uncivilized. But did you totally hate it?”
It’s his turn to laugh now. “Oh, there were many drunken nights where I loved it.”
“I bet the fae of your world would shudder to hear such a thing.”
“I wouldn’t be so sure. You should see the kind of dancing they do at the pleasure halls.” He smiles boyishly, then leans in, his voice hushed in secret. “And I can guarantee everyone at this party has been at least once in their lifetime.”
“What makes you think that?” I try to suppress my smile.
“Because fae live for centuries. And after a while, life gets dull. It’s an effort to keep finding meaning and pleasure in the mundane. The only way to stay sane is by trying new things,” he trails off suggestively.
“How old are you?” I ask.
“Nearly two hundred.”
“Wow.” I chuckle.
“That’s considered young for a fae!”
I shake my head, trying to wrap my mind around that.
“Two hundred years is still a long time. You must have tried it all by now.”
He smiles warmly. “Not all.”
“You look so young like this.” I reach up and brush away a stray lock of caramel hair. It's the most beautiful color—strands of gold, copper, and brown blended together to create a warm, rich hue. He’s got that effortless kind of hair that parts down the middle in a swoopy wave that you just want to run your fingers through.
“We age differently. If I were human, I would probably pass for someone in my late twenties, like you.”
“How do witches age?”
“Depends, really. Redbloods age slower than humans, but not as slow as fae. Bluebloods and Blackbloods are similar to fae in the aging process. Once they reach maturity, the changes become infinitesimal.”
“So I could—” I trail off, and he finishes for me.
“It’s possible for you to live a very, very long life.”
“I don’t even know if I would want that. Time means nothing without people you care about. Who care for you,” I say, letting my hand drop from his shoulder. He eyes me for a long time, weighing what to say next.
“There are people here who care.” His words are firm, his eyes soft.
“I know you care. It’s in your job description.” I smile ruefully, my gaze inadvertently catching Jace’s from where he stands across the dance floor beside Sorscha. We both quickly look away, and then my eye catches on the dais.
A fae male looking a year or two younger than Zadyn is standing in front of the queen. She looks up at him as he speaks and then falls into the empty throne beside her. His posture is the male version of hers. Disinterested, lax, and bored to tears. But the way he sprawls his legs and leans back into the armrest is roguish and sensual.
“Is that the prince?” I ask, pulling Zadyn’s eyes from my face. He nods.
“Have you met him before?” I wonder.
“Not officially,” he says distractedly.
Something about the prince feels dangerous. A dark aura rolls off of him and curls around me like an exotic snake ready to devour its prey. I can’t break my stare, and as if my thoughts summoned his attention, he stares directly into my eyes. He holds my gaze too long to feel casual, and I finally break away, turning to Zadyn.
“I think I need some air,” I tell him.
He nods his head and we start weaving through the thicket of gorgeous fae. Their collective beauty, combined with the intoxicating music and romantic candlelight suddenly feels overwhelming.
We approach a pair of French doors leading out onto a stone patio. Just before we pass through, Zadyn is stopped by Lord Gronwen and a petite fae female with golden curls and a devastating heart-shaped face. He pries Zadyn from my grip to introduce him to some “ people he should know. ” Swallowed by the small group, Zadyn strains his neck to keep eyes on me. I smile and wave him off, pointing to the door. He nods and resumes his conversation while I step out into the glorious night.
The air is perfect. Mild but not cold. I wonder about the seasons here and if they have them. I picture the grounds with a light dusting of snow over the massive trees and sprawling lawns. It would be beautiful.
The star constellations look completely different here. They dangle a bit closer to the ground. Shine a tad brighter. But the moon steals the show, a glowing orb that dazzles all who look upon it. I brace my hands over the smooth stone railing and breathe deeply as the dull roar of the crowd and the music thrums behind me.
“Who might you be?” purrs a voice like silk. I turn to face Prince Kai.
Up close, he’s truly devastating. Black hair that falls perfectly around his ears without any detectable styling, ocean blue eyes, and high cheekbones. He has a small scar under his left eye, but it just makes him look ridiculously sexy.
“Sorry, I don’t talk to strangers.” Tossing my long hair over my shoulder, I turn back to face the flawlessly groomed hedge maze below. A dark chuckle and the sound of footsteps coast toward me as he takes up a spot at my side, assuming my exact posture. I do my best not to look at him, but the pull is strong.
“Tell me your name, and we won’t be strangers anymore.” His voice is pure, unadulterated flirtation.
“Alright, I’ll start.” He angles his body to face mine, leaning on the railing with one elbow. Amusement twinkles in his hypnotic eyes.
“Hello. My name is Kai. I don’t believe I’ve had the pleasure. Your turn.” He gestures with a hand for me to speak.
“You’re the queen’s son,” I say.
“Is that a statement or a question?” He smirks darkly, a singular dimple appearing on his cheek.
“Neither. It was an observation.”
“Really? And have you made any other observations tonight?” He takes a step closer, and I fight the urge to inhale his scent.
“Perhaps how all eyes are on you this evening when they should be on me. It’s my party, after all,” he says with a teasing whimper in his voice.
“I had not noticed that.”
“I did. My eyes were among the admirers.”
“Your eyes tell me a lot, actually.”
A fire ignites in those sea-colored orbs as his voice lowers. “And what do they say?”
“That you are highly presumptuous.” He bites his lower lip as he stares at mine unabashedly. “And pompous,” I add.
He leans back, chuckling. “Maybe I, too, am merely observant. ”
“Is that so.”
“Yes. In fact, I observed you staring at me inside. I observed you walking out onto this patio. I’m observing the very look on your face right now.”
“We’ve just met, and you claim to be able to interpret my facial expressions? My, my, you must be a mind reader.”
“No, I’m just an expert on body language.” His gaze travels down my entire length and back up. I can feel my body heat under his stare. He reaches out tentatively, with enough slowness that I can move out of reach if I want to.
I don’t want to.
His fingers tilt my chin up, angling my face to his. Time moves a touch slower.
“Do you really believe I’m going to kiss you right now?” I whisper against his lips.
“I’m just testing your restraint,” he whispers back, a secret smile in his voice. “You’re doing exceptionally well. Most females in your position would have dropped their panties to the floor by now.”
My hand shoots up to grip him by the face, chasing the lusty, glazed look from his eyes and replacing it with pure shock.
“I’m not like any of the females you know. I’m a woman .” I release his face only to bring my palm across his cheek. The slap makes a satisfying sound, though I know I didn’t hit him hard enough to actually hurt. The shock on his face as he rubs the spot I struck melts into admiration, then respect, and then circles back to lust. “You’ll ask before you touch me next time.”
He bites his lip to stifle his growing smirk.
A deep sense of satisfaction washes over me as I fight my own smile and start toward the door.
“I didn’t get a name,” he calls after me, his voice lighter. Amused .
“You didn’t earn it,” I shout back, facing the party. I gather my skirts in my hands when I see Zadyn on the other side of the glass door, his face pale. He pulls the door open for me.
“What did he want?” he asks tightly.
“A kiss, most likely.” I shrug.
“Of course,” Zadyn says. “You shouldn’t be alone with him.”
“I’m not even going to attempt to explain to you how fundamentally problematic that statement is.”
“No, I mean”—Zadyn shakes his head—“he’s a siren.”
My look of confusion prompts him to elaborate.
“He is High Fae,” he explains. “But each bloodline has its own set of unique gifts. His line, Queen Ilspeth’s line, is descendant of ancient fae water nymphs, also known as sirens.”
“And what do they do? Lure people to their watery graves?”
“In some cases, yes. Their power lies in their ability to influence. They can seduce you with a single thought. Bend you to their will without lifting a finger. They’re dangerous.”
It makes sense. Everything about him made me want to run screaming and also tear his clothes off and lick him head to toe at the same time.
“Relax.” I pat Zadyn’s chest. “I didn’t fall for it. We have sirens back home, too. We call them narcissists.” I chance a look toward the patio, but Kai is already gone.
The rest of the night passes quickly. I people-watch from Zadyn’s side, occasionally locking eyes with Jace and cursing myself every time I do. But then again, he isn’t helping, looking all brooding and beautiful in his sharp uniform with his hair brushed back off his face to show off those elegant, proud lines and liquid gold eyes.
Ugh, I have to stop .
“I need a drink,” I mutter to Zadyn and head toward the refreshments table. Turning too quickly, I nearly collide with a bouncing sister-princess .
“Cousin,” she says excitedly. “I want you to meet someone. This is our special guest, Prince Kai of Vod.” Her arm is crooked through his as she beams up at him terrifically.
Kai’s eyes have a deviant glint in them. He bows low, gently lifting my hand to his lips. My body shivers in pleasure. His answering smile tells me that it was no mere coincidence.
“Is there something wrong with your eyes?” I ask innocently, batting my lashes. This knocks his concentration, halting whatever siren magic he was trying to work on me.
The princess giggles, a delicate hand over her pouty pink lips. “Forgive me, my Prince. This is my dear cousin, Lady Serena Accostia. She’s just arrived at court from the north.”
“The pleasure is mine, Lady Serena . I hope I will be blessed with the opportunity to get to know you over the course of my stay.”
“Kai, I absolutely forbid you from monopolizing her.” She pulls her arm from his, only to slide it through mine. I look down at her, an inch or two shorter than me. It’s nearly impossible not to like this version of my sister. “She is, after all, my kin—it’s only right that I be the first to have her all to myself.”
“Have no fear, Princess, I’m a patient male.” He gives me another shark smile.
“I will, however, spare her for a dance. You are our guest of honor, after all,” Sorscha quips.
“A charming welcome gift indeed.”
The princess gives me a gentle shove and an encouraging smile. Good dancer, she mouths to me, then turns to Zadyn to pour her honey in his ear. Kai wordlessly tows me to the dance floor and wraps his arms around me.
“I’m not your welcome gift,” I clarify as he pulls me tightly into his warmth.
“I wouldn’t dream of objectifying you in such a way.” He knits his eyebrows together, his lips curled slightly in amusement.
“I know what you are,” I warn him as the music picks up. It reminds me of a polka—lively, fast-paced, and exuberant.
“I’m many things, my love. You’ll have to be more specific.”
“A siren. I know that you’re a siren, so I would appreciate it if you would stop with that seductive eye thing you’re doing.”
“I’m not trying to seduce you.” Leaning in so that his lips skim my ear, he whispers, “But when I am, you’ll know.”
Before I can protest, he’s whipping me across the floor, the air leaving my lungs so fast I struggle to keep up. He lifts me and tosses me around like I’m a feather, and I suppress a laugh because, honestly, it’s kind of fun. The princess was right. Kai’s dancing skills make the grace of the other fae look second-rate.
By the time the dance is finished, people have stopped to watch him and his impressive maneuvers. That’s when I notice we are the only two left on the dance floor. I can feel my cheeks heat under the gaze of a thousand foreign eyes. And when the last note of the song plays, triumphant and final, he pulls me to a stop and lifts our joined hands high in the air, presenting me. The crowd erupts into wild cheers and whispers of awe. Kai beams at his adoring public.
Without sparing me a second glance, he jerks me forward into another spin and releases me, walking in the opposite direction and leaving Jace to catch me around the waist before I hit the ground face-first.
“Impressive,” he says sarcastically as I struggle to right myself. “Did you keep hitting the Poison after I told you to be careful, or are you always this uncoordinated?”
“Let’s hope for your sake I’m not. You’re the one who’ll be training me come tomorrow morning.”
“I’m positive I have my work cut out for me.”
He sets me upright, and I’m aware of every place our bodies connect. His hand around my waist, his shoulder beneath my palm, my elbow brushing his forearm. I swear I feel him glide his thumb up my hip where his hand rests.
“There you are,” the princess lilts from behind me. For a second, I think she’s talking to me, but then I notice her eyes are fixed on Jace. Her three ladies stand behind her with Zadyn in tow, dwarfing them all with his height. “We’re about to retire to my chambers for the after-party.” She winks at me.
“Invite only.” The gorgeous blonde, Cece, smiles beatifically.
“Did someone say after-party? Thank gods, I’m getting harassed by every female here. Your court has grown insufferably handsy since the last time I came to visit, Princess.” Kai sidles up to her, eyeing me up like a crocodile.
“Oh, please, Kai.” She rolls her eyes affectionately and turns to me. “Are you coming?”
I’m sure I look as shocked as I feel. I open my mouth to answer, but Jace does it for me.
“Lady Serena has a tutor coming early tomorrow morning.” He glances from me to her. Sorscha looks suspicious but doesn’t ask any follow-ups.
“Very well,” the princess says, her hands folded in front of her. “Perhaps you’ll join us next time.”
She smiles and turns to lead her entourage from our sight. Kai peeks back only to wiggle his fingers at me in farewell.
I turn to Jace angrily.
“You don’t speak for me.”
“You’re not going to the after-party. You have to get up at dawn tomorrow and every day after that. I doubt that’s something you're used to, witch. It’s already past your bedtime.”
I dare a step closer.
“Do not make the mistake of infantilizing me again. ”
“Is someone sad she’ll miss the fun?” he mocks me. “Don’t worry, I’ll give you a full recap in the morning.”
“Why do you get to go?” I huff, crossing my arms.
“Who am I to refuse the princess? Besides, I enjoy her little gatherings.” That stupid smug smile on his face has me glaring up at him.
“He’s right, you do have an early day,” Zadyn says. I groan in frustration.
“Not you, too.”
“I know what I’m talking about. It’s already late. Don’t think I’ll go easy on you because you’re tired,” Jace says sternly and steers me toward the door. “Come on, I’ll drop you off on my way to the party.”
“I don’t need a chaperone. Besides, I have Zadyn—he’s worse than a guard dog.”
“I don’t trust you not to get around him. And I definitely don’t trust him to say no to you.”
“You’re a dick,” Zadyn says from my other side. I throw my head back and laugh loudly. He shrugs, glancing down at my surprised face. “You live around a bunch of uncivilized humans for thirty years, you pick up a few things.” He smirks proudly.
We reach our rooms, and as Zadyn and I pass through my door, Jace leans in.
“Dawn. I mean it,” he warns, disappearing around the corner. A moment later, he pops his head back in. “Oh, and leave the guard dog. No distractions in the ring.”
He leaves without so much as a glance at Zadyn. I look at him and shrug apologetically.
“You’ll have to find some other way to occupy your morning,” I tell him, unclasping my earrings and tossing them onto the vanity.
“Sleep sounds like a pretty good use of my time after the week we’ve had.” He stands with his hands in his pockets, looking around the room. I kick off my shoes and groan with relief as I flex through my arches. Zadyn watches me for a moment, then moves to one of the shaggy ottomans in front of the window seat and perches there. “Come here.”
I take a seat in the alcove across from him, and he reaches down.
“What are you doing?”
In answer, he picks up my foot and begins kneading the sore muscles.
“Oh my god, that feels so good,” I groan. He laughs and shakes his head.
“You know you don’t have to do that,” I tell him after a moment of watching his skilled hands work. “I don’t think foot massages are in the job description of familiars.”
“I know I don’t have to.” He looks up into my eyes. “But I want to.”
I quietly consider his statement.
“You have to be on your game tomorrow. Can’t do that with crippled feet. Jace is tough. He’s going to be hard on you, you know.”
I sigh. “He’s already hard on me. I just don’t understand why he’s so hostile toward me all the time.”
Zadyn gives me a look, and I can almost hear him saying, don’t play dumb.
I shoot him a look back that says, I’m not. I genuinely don’t understand.
He huffs a mirthless laugh.
“It must be hard,” he says after a while. “To be around him.”
I don’t answer right away. “It’s hard to be around all of them.”
“You still love Jack,” he says, studying me. It’s not quite a question.
“I don’t know,” I answer honestly. “I don’t know anything right now. He’s—he’s not Jack. I try to remind myself of that every time I see him. They couldn’t be more opposite.” I marvel. “Same with Sam—or Sorscha. Here, she’s this flouncy little party princess, impossible not to love. My sister is cold and removed, just like my mom.”
“And the king?” Zadyn asks, hitting a pressure point. I wince. “Sorry.”
“It’s fine. Umm…the king, I’m still figuring out. I just never thought I would see my dad’s face again.”
“For what it’s worth, I think you’re doing great. You’re handling everything considerably well.”
“Thanks,” I say flatly, thinking of all the ways I could be handling things better than considerably well. Zadyn’s hands still.
“You should probably get some rest,” he says finally.
“Put my foot down, and I will,” I tease.
He releases it quickly, and we both get to our feet. Giving my shoulder a gentle squeeze, he heads toward his suite, pausing in the threshold.
“In case no one told you tonight—” His brown eyes roam over me, warming my body. “You looked beautiful.”
Before I can say a word, he’s closed the door, leaving me alone to contemplate the faerie tale I’ve fallen into.
* ? Cue: Cruel Summer by Ana Done