#Chapter 61: Secrets

Ava Chris tightened his grip around my waist and began leading me over to the food table. “All this socializing is making me hungry,” he said, leaning in close so I could hear. “Let’s get something to eat.” I nodded, still a bit dazed after my dance with the man known as Dedrick. Something about him made me just a little bit uneasy, although I wasn’t entirely sure why. Chris, noticing that I was still being quiet, gave me a nudge. “Cat got your tongue?” I quickly shook my head. “No. Just… taking it all in.” I gestured around at the party. “It’s a lot.” He chuckled. “Tell me about it. The Elders have been practically glued to my side all night.” Pausing at the buffet table, I glanced over at where the Elders were seated at the long banquet table by the front of the gathering. All five of them were sitting in a row, quietly talking amongst themselves and sipping their wine. But I knew them well enough to know that they were watching everyone, particularly Chris an