Danielle Rose Russell And Aria Shahghasemi Novels & Stories

"Oh, we’ll get to the files, Aria. But I find I don't quite trust your word anymore. You’ve become far too attached to that Callahan husband of yours. I need to know that you are fully, completely mine again. I need to see your submission." I looked up at him through a blur of tears. "What do you want?" Ross walked to the center of the room, clearing a space with his foot. He looked like a director preparing a stage. "A ransom. Not in money, but in dignity. You’ve always been so proud, Aria. Even when you were nothing, you carried yourself like a queen. I want to see that pride break." He leaned back against the desk, crossing his arms. "Dance for me."

“Clean. A spar, maybe. Or a scenario where Kael and I have to cover each other to break a circle. No speeches.” “Let them see you coordinate,” Rowan said, “without looking like you rehearsed it for a festival.” “That we can do,” Kael said. Rhea straightened, clapped her hands once. “Good. I’ll go terrorize the volunteers.” She strode out, already barking names. Aria reached across the table, briefly squeezing Rin’s hand. “You don’t owe them fireworks,” she said. “Just competence.” “Competence I can manage,” Rin said. “Fireworks cost extra.”