#Chapter 266: In Two Directions

Abby Karl leads me onto the dance floor, his hand warm against my back. The soft strains of classical music fill the air, and the elegant masks of the other guests twinkle in the dim light of the ballroom. As we start to move together, his hand wrapped securely around mine, I can’t help but feel a surge of nervous excitement. “You look stunning tonight in that dress and mask, Abby,” Karl says, his voice so low and thick that it’s nearly drowned out by the music. “The color of that dress suits you perfectly.” My cheeks flush with a rosy pink sort of hue, and I’m glad to have the mask covering my face. I glance down at the intricate lacework of my dark blue gown and the delicate Venetian mask that hides my identity. “Thank you,” I reply, my own voice barely more than a whisper as well. “You look handsome as well. I like your mask.” Karl chuckles, reaching up to touch the simple black mask covering half of his face. “You’re sure?” he asks. “I was worried it’s too simple.”