Abby As Damon and I step back out into the bustling party, the sound of music overwhelms me once more. That, and the feeling of Karl somewhere close by. But I know it’s all in my head. If Karl was here, he would have called me. And yet, I haven’t heard from him since he left me that initial voic
“Karl.” His name comes out like a breath on my tongue. When I see those soft brown eyes gazing at me, it’s as if everyone else suddenly stands still, as if the music goes silent and there’s nothing but us twirling in slow motion beneath a single light. “Abby,” Karl whispers as we spin together.
Abby “Is there a problem here?” Damon’s voice is powerful and firm despite the sound of the party whirling around us. His grip tightens around my shoulders, pulling me in closer against his warm body. I stumble a bit in my heels and feel my body press against him in a way that makes me shiver.
In fact, I think I didn’t speak because I was a coward. That was it. And now I need to get away. Damon hands me his pocket square instead of slipping it back into his pocket and rubs my shoulder gently. “Perhaps a little work might do you some good,” he says gently. “But please, if you need to r
Karl “And stay out!” The guard shoves me away with so much force that I nearly pitch forward onto my knees on the front lawn. All around us, curious guests watch and whisper in hushed tones. I turn, dusting myself off, and bow theatrically to the crowd. “Enjoy the show, everyone,” I chide them
Abby “Ahh… My feet are so sore,” Daisy whines as we enter our private chambers. She wanders over to one of the large, plush couches and flops down with a satisfied sigh. “Your feet hurt, but your heart is soaring, isn’t it?” Anton teases. “What a successful party, eh?” I almost laugh out loud
Abby The light of the moon streaming in through the high windows casts a dim blue glow over the corridor. As I step up to the cracked-open door of Damon’s private chambers, however, a flickering orange light mixes in with the dusky blues and grays. “Hello?” I call out softly, knocking twice on t
Once again, I’m a bit taken aback by Damon’s words. I suppose I should expect it by now because of my previous experiences with him, but his questions all feel a bit probing. “I apologize, Damon, but that’s my business,” I say. “I’m not sure if I’m willing to discuss that.” Damon’s eyes flash mo