You're not still waiting for Quinn, are you?

Alaric felt like an idiot. He'd spotted Elowen looking bored in the crowd earlier. The only reason she'd come to this party was for Heath, but as luck would have it, Heath was out of town on business. Now Elowen had no one to focus on.

Alaric knew that if he asked Elowen to dance now, she'd definitely say yes. But suddenly, he didn't want to. He was tired of always being Elowen's second choice. As Lysander had once said, even if you're a doormat, you've got to draw the line somewhere.

So he ignored Elowen's gaze and turned away, only to see Vespera getting up to leave. Without hesitation, he walked over to intercept her. She was his only chance to save dignity and not look like he was running away with his tail between his legs.

Alaric looked down at Vespera's smiling face and said, "I'm being ridiculous, aren't I?"

Vespera paused, then shook her head. "There's nothing ridiculous about liking someone."

Alaric's mood lifted instantly. He danced with Vespera, then gently held her hand a