Page 154 of Captive of Secrets and Storms

“Come now, darling. We both know that’s not⁠—”

A delicate throat clears behind me.

I turn.

Helen has risen from her seat and now stands close to my back. Too close.

A glance at the top row reveals half of its occupants are gone. Augustus and Jason are at the refreshment table with Daphne and Silas.

Where are Rian and Iris?

Heat scorches through my chest.

Who cares?

My gaze flicks back to Helen’s.

Her stare captures mine, and her mouth curves into a practiced smile. “I hope I’m not interrupting.”

Hali and Leto are quick to stand, rotate, and dip into a shallow curtsy and modest bow, respectively.

“Of course not, Lady Helen,” Leto replies with charm and deference. “It is always an honor to speak with you.”

I rise and mimic the depth of Hali’s curtsy.

“Nonsense, it is my honor to speak with our first contest’s champion.” Helen smiles at Leto, but the pleased expression slips when her gaze slides to Hali. “And you, as well, young Hali.”

“Thank you, Lady Helen,” Hali replies, voice monotone.

Leto clears his throat. “How can we be of service, Lady Helen?”

A jeweled headband weaves through Helen’s thick brown tresses. The wealth of those gems alone would be enough money to feed all of Verdanthia for the cold season.

“Actually, I was hoping to speak with you, my dear.”

I count fifteen jewels at least. Are there more concealed underneath her hair?

Leto touches my elbow. “Elara?”

I drop my gaze, finding Lady Helen’s cool, flat eyes on me.

Damn…

“Forgive me…” I blink. “It’s…it’s been a long day.”

Helen’s answering smile is far from sincere.

“Of course.” She waves a hand to the elevated pathway extending off the viewing box, surrounding the maze below. “May I have a word?”

My gut begs me to say no, but I don’t really have a choice.

More than one stare burns into my back as I shuffle a step in front of the mayor’s wife, taking care not to trip in my tight gown.

Below, servants hurry through the maze hedges, resetting the course.

My stomach twists.

How many more contestants will endure this suffering? And for what?