“ I should”

ELSIDA

I couldn’t take my eyes off him and I hoped it wasn’t painfully obvious to onlookers.

What would they say?

Princess Elsida has eyes for someone who isn’t the Prince?

Good grudges, I didn’t understand why Julien had to be here.

Adrian’s voice snapped me out of my thoughts and I gave him a bright smile as my gaze returned to him.

“May I have this dance Princessa?”

“Of course,” I murmur, my voice low.

Julien’s eyes remain on mine the whole time Adrian and I waltz in the center of the ballroom and I finally manage to force my eyes away from his daunting green hues.

God, this was so wrong.

From my periphery, I spot him walking to whom I assume is his wife; Claudia.

He hands her a golden goblet and presses his lips to her cheek.

Claudia’s pale face turns crimson and I force a swallow.

“You look beautiful tonight Princessa,” Adrian whispers in my ear.

“Thank you. You don’t look so bad yourself.” I give him a half smile.

He swirls me around and in a fluid motion, pulls me toward him.