It was all very polite between them. Which was fine. But not what Elias wanted. However, tonight was their betrothal ball.
Tonight we will dance. We’ll touch, and I will make him adore me!
Elias had thought getting his future husband to at least tolerate him would be easy. But how could Elias show how charming and affable he could be if Prince Gerard kept up such a respectable facade and wouldn’t let down his walls even a little!
Colette bounced on her feet beside Elias, craning her neck back and forward. She wore a rather puffy violet dress that matched her eyes.
“Spotted your young dragon yet?”
She giggled. “He’s notmyyoung dragon.”
But then her eyes lit up, and she smiled. She waved at the nineteen-year-old Lord Wolf. Based on the way he returned her wave and smile, he seemed to have as much interest in Colette as she did in him.
“Just remember to not reveal too much of yourself,” Elias warned.
Her mouth fell open. She blushed. “Elias! I would never behave so scandalously. I’m a lady!”
Elias almost laughed. “I meant be careful what you say to him. Don’tshareanything you shouldn’t.” He stared meaningfully at her.
“Oh! Oh! Right. Of course! I would never.” She lifted her chin.
“Good.” He squeezed her hand, and off she dashed.
He watched the two of them. He’d not seen anything inappropriate or anything that worried him. So far, they seemed to just enjoy flirting, talking, and being in each other’s company. As long as Colette remembered to not share any vital secrets, they should be fine.
Still, he watched them for several minutes.
A trumpet blew. Everyone turned towards the centre of the ballroom where a herald stood. “I present King Alaric and Queen Consort Adelina of Draconia. I present Emperor Hugo Storm and Empress Emmeline Aella of the combined Kingdoms of Voltaria and Zephyrias.” The herald bowed and walked to the side of the marble dance floor.
The king, queen consort, emperor, and empress glided to the centre of the ballroom.
King Alaric stared out over the crowd. “Tonight, we are gathered to celebrate the upcoming wedding between Prince Elias Storm and my son, Prince Gerard Drachen.” His voice boomed.
Emperor Hugo smiled. “Theirs will be one of the eight marriages that will seal the peace treaty.”
Then the empress looked straight at Elias. She grinned. His skin crawled, and his muscles tensed.
Why is she so pleased?
“They will be dancing ‘The Flight of the Dragons,’” the herald announced.
Elias blinked but otherwise did not move an inch.
That is not the song we agreed upon!
He glanced at his father, who still fucking smiled. Then Elias looked at the musicians, who sat holding their instruments poised. They did not appear shocked by the announcement of the song.
Seems everyone knew about the song change but me.
Exhaling, Elias strode forward as the king, queen consort, emperor, and empresses vacated the dance floor. Prince Gerard met him in the middle.
“Prince Elias.” He nodded, briefly meeting Elias’s gaze before fixing it over his head. “I hope you are well this evening.”
So polite. So proper. And so not what Elias wanted.
“Thank you. I am.” Elias stepped in close. A little closer than necessary. Only half a breath separated them.
Prince Gerard held out his hand. Elias took it and placed his other hand on the man’s shoulder. He squeezed.
