Page 186 of Captive of Secrets and Storms

“What is the big deal?” I ask, voice wary. “It’s just a dance.”

Hali and Leto’s pitying glances raise the hair on the back of my neck.

I gulp. “Isn’t it?”

She shakes her head slowly. “No, Elara. It’s part of the betrothal contest. The dance is meant to be a test for the betrothed couple.”

I frown. “A test, how?”

Leto runs a hand over his perfectly styled hair. “The winners of the previous contests are meant to seduce the couple. Or try to, at least.”

I gape. “Why in the six hells would they do that?”

“To prove Jason and Daphne’s devotion to one another before they wed tomorrow,” he replies, matter-of-fact.

Emotion is noticeably absent from his tone.

He continues, “The contestants who won a competition this week will be here tonight. And whoever proves to be the most…alluring with their partner will be declared the ultimate winner of the betrothal contest.”

This is insane.

“And who decides that?” I ask.

“Helen,” Hali spits out.

My mouth falls open.

The groom’s mother will decide who best seduces her son?

The situation was already gross, but that makes it even worse.

I snap my lips closed. “Are you telling me that after all the contestants' demonstrations of strength and power, this is how they will decide the winner?”

This is what the mayor and his wife demand of their most powerful citizens in order to earn a favor?

“Yes.” Hali seethes.

“That’s…” I shake my head. “That’s idiotic.”

“Indeed,” Leto replies, shifting the fabric over one of his muscular shoulders. “But it is beyond our control.”

Another series of bells chime, echoing down the hall, bouncing around my head along with my racing pulse.

“That’s our cue.” Leto holds out his hand and curls his lips into what’s meant to be a charming smile: it’s clearly strained. “Shall we?”

I stare at the handsome man. “Do I have to?”

He doesn’t lower his arm. “All my hard work will be for naught if you don’t. I cannot choose another companion this close to the contest.”

A pang pricks my chest.

“This is low, Leto,” Hali clips out. “Even for you.”

A flicker of pain crosses his eyes. And I get the sense that his confident act is just that… An act.

I press my lips together.

Leto withheld the truth from me.