ression did

an," she said, her voice cool. "Wh

r my... overzealous actions. A public apology, a fine. But know this: if you eve

p, ignoring the protes

a harsh laugh escaping hi

devotion to Julian. This absolute trust. Where does it come from? Af

g. "Yes. I trust Julian implicitly.

was like a p

mundane food poisoning and her own violent overre

was

lara's assistants h

awake and asking for you.

oftened. A small, relieve

o Ethan, she turned an

orway, Ethan spoke, h

come when you realize the truth, and yo

n't loo

ical wounds healed, but a

l event, one he usually endured rather than enjoyed. Thi

Julian across t

ing his mask, offering him a drink, h

ers whi

them. So

the infirmary? She practically

put Vanderbil

a struck up

ve son, called out, "A talent di

an! You played that incredible guitar piece at last spring's ma

aw Clar

osity. It was the first time he' d seen her look at him with anything ot

uched Ethan's lips. A

id, his voice carrying

e small stage where i

hing his chest dramatically. "

llar, his face contorted in a

his side, all thoughts of Ethan'

face a mask of anxiety. "A

reathed, leaning heavily on her. "Per

ediately. "Of co

ory glance, as if his agreeing to play

n from the ballroom, h

ting a fleeting, triumphant smirk

moment, and his chance, had