The banquet hall glittered with gold and firelight, a scene of opulence that could not disguise the rot beneath. Crystal goblets chimed, platters overflowed with roasted pheasant and sugared fruits, and laughter rippled like fragile glass ready to crack.But beneath the music and perfume, tension thrummed like a taut string. Everyone felt it. Everyone knew.Damien sat at the head of the table, his goblet untouched, his gaze sharp and restless. At his right, Aria clung to her role as the ever-devoted lady, pearls woven through her hair, her smile painted on like lacquer. On his left, I sat composed in sapphire silk, every movement measured, every word laced with quiet control.The Prime Minister lounged several seats away, his eyes like blades, watching, always watching.It began with a whisper, Aria’s voice, pitched sweetly but meant to carry.“I hear,” she said lightly, “that the Prime Minister has found a new confidante in
Last Updated : 2025-09-05 Read more