Page 187 of Captive of Secrets and Storms

He could have told me what to expect tonight. He could have been honest instead of allowing me to walk into this evening blind.

But, as a healer, I’ve learned how to read people.

And it’s clear that both Leto and I were manipulated into this situation.

For what purpose? I don’t know.

But I can’t let Leto suffer from circumstances out of his control. I know, all too well, how much that stings.

I place my palm in his.

Relief flows into his handsome features, and his smile turns more genuine as his fingers close around mine.

“Thank you,” he exhales.

Hali mutters a curse under her breath.

“You’re welcome.” I straighten my neck. “Just don’t make me regret this.”

The spark returns to his eyes. “I won’t. Now, how about you and I put on a show?”

35

The ballroom falls silent the second we step inside. Every single soul is eager for this depraved spectacle to begin.

Except for the participants.

Leto’s hand tightens around mine as we follow Hali. The chandelier’s crystals glitter like sharp teeth above our heads as we weave through the large crowd.

Eyes track us, one stare after another.

Someone gasps.

The whispers start.

Anticipation hovers in the air. My palms grow sweaty.

Leto’s grip tightens. I glance at the fire wielder. He gives me a flirty wink. Those who see squeal in delight.

I smile weakly and squeeze his hand back.

There will be no peace for me until this contest is over and my time in Virendrell ends. Until I end Darius’s curse, and I can reunite with my sister.

Oh, is that all?

Inwardly, I scoff, but I call on my experience as a healer and school my features.

No matter what anyone around me says or does, I am determined not to react.

I will go along with this contest. For Leto. For Hali.

For every soul who wishes to escape Virendrell with her, I will play my part.

And I pray to the Gods that I do it well.

The crowd becomes denser as we draw closer to the front of the ballroom.

It isn’t until a group of young men wearing clothing resembling a soldier’s uniform, albeit fancier with shiny gold buttons and fitted seams, parts that I see why.