“That sounds perfect for you,” I say, and I do mean it, even if it’s for selfish reasons. The further away she is, the better for us.“It is,” she agrees. Her eyes meet mine once more, and there’s a flash in them—whatever it is, it sets me off. I can’t quite put my finger on it, though. Does she kno
IrisThis Solstice event is far more extravagant than the public ones I attended as a child. It’s held at the estate of some wealthy Ordan family or another, overlooking the city far below the hill the mansion is positioned on. Rows upon rows of expensive sports cars line the pebbled driveway, and t
“You’re always spoiling me with these nice dresses,” I muse as I slip into the gown.My mother grins as she laces up the back. When it’s cinched in like that, especially with the voluminous skirt, it makes my waist look slender and perfectly curved.“I’ve got to make up for lost time. But… something
Iris“Hold still. I don’t want to burn you.”I make a face at my reflection in the vanity mirror but obey my mother’s command, stilling my fidgeting hands in my lap. We’re in my bedroom at my parents’ house, which has been transformed into a styling headquarters for the day.“Are you sure about this
I look up sharply. “Leaving?”“She’s going away. A year-long residency in Bo’Arrocan. She accepted it specifically to remove herself from the equation.”I sit back in my chair, processing. Veronica is voluntarily stepping aside? Removing herself from the country so Arthur and I can live in peace? It
IrisWhen Arthur said we needed to talk, I expected to go home, or maybe to his office, or even a quiet coffee shop somewhere.I did not expect the fanciest restaurant in Ordan—the very same place he rented out for my exhibition afterparty, towering over the entire city.“What is this?” I ask as the