The Grand Ballroom of the Hotel Aethelgard had been transformed. Rows of gilded chairs faced a raised velvet stage, where a podium stood under a single, blinding spotlight.The air smelled of lilies, old money, and hushed judgment.Vespera sat in the front row, directly to the left of the center aisle. She was a slash of violent crimson in a sea of black tuxedos and beige gowns. Cyprian sat beside her, his arm draped casually over the back of her chair, his presence a silent wall of defense.To the right of the aisle, separated by five feet of carpet that felt like a minefield, sat Lysander Thorne.He looked manic. His tuxedo was expensive, but he wore it like a costume. He was sweating, despite the cool air conditioning. Elara sat next to him, whispering in his ear, her eyes darting toward Vespera’s diamond bracelet with naked envy."Ladies and Gentlemen," the auctioneer announced, his British accent crisp and practiced. "We now come to the highlight of the evening. Lot 49."A hush f
最終更新日 : 2026-01-03 続きを読む