#Chapter 93 - Accusations

Lila Another night, another ballroom. I lingered near the edge of the hall, just inside the arched entrance, not quite part of the celebration. My dress—a deep forest green that Emma insisted brought out my eyes—felt too tight across the chest. I kept adjusting the neckline, checking my braid, my posture, anything to keep my hands busy. Damon wasn’t here. Again. I tried not to care. Tried not to let the absence dig into me like a missing piece. He had duties, obligations. I was used to being second to politics. But tonight, I felt it more than ever before. Emma appeared at my side with a drink I hadn’t asked for and a smile that didn’t quite reach her eyes. “If you’re going to stand here brooding, at least hold something to keep your hands busy.” I took the glass. “I’m not brooding.” “You’re vibrating like a rabbit before a thunderstorm,” she said gently, awkwardly offering to loop her arm through mine. “It’s just a party.” I accepted the offer and was grateful that at