Page 134 of A Reign of Chromes & Shadows

“Erm… we should finish before the others kill us for stalling.”

Jay flushed scarlet and dropped into the slide, wincing as he twisted. Rain followed, catching him at the bottom and hauling him upright. He linked their hands and dragged him toward the platform.

The team erupted into cheers, pulling them into a group hug.

“We did it!” Emily squealed. “We came second!”

Jay paled. “Oh no—did I cost us first?”

Wren and Jasmine laughed.

“No! Purple finished before Rogan even made it across,” Jasmine said. “We’d have been second anyway. Your little hanging smooch didn’t change anything.”

Thomas elbowed Rain. “Pretty impressive, though. I’d have fallen to my death the second someone kissed me mid-air.”

“Well, they don’t call me the promiscuous prince for nothing,” Rain joked, sticking his tongue between his lips.

After confirming their invitation to next week’s games, they went to find Snow.

Julian had beaten them to her, leaning over the railing, deep in conversation. Rain climbed the rail and dropped into the seat beside her, pretending to be fascinated.

Julian sighed dramatically.

“Why must you always show up and ruin the mood?”

“Now, now, Tyrian,” Rain drawled. “We both know my face brightens your every day.”

Julian scoffed and straightened.

“I heard a rumour. Care to clear it up? There should be no secrets between allied nations after all.”

Rain yawned theatrically. “Do spit it out.”

“A little red birdy told me something precious was taken last night. Four very precious somethings.”

Julian’s smugness was nauseating.

Rain leaned forward, voice low and dangerous.

“Watch your words, ally. But please—tell me more about this little birdy. I’m very interested in your connection to our rivals at such a pivotal time.”

Julian froze.

Realisation dawned in his eyes.

He’d said too much.

“Surely,” Rain continued softly, “after we so generously forgave your kingdom for stealing our beloved betrothed, you’re not also fraternising with the enemy. Are you, Julian?”

“How dare you? You are the definition of fraternising with the enemy!” Julian snapped, pointing at Jay. “Or do mortal playthings not count?”

Rain surged forward, but Snow pressed a hand to his chest.

“Enough!” she snapped, rising to her feet. A cold wind curled around her ankles. “My brother is right. Where do your allegiances lie, Julian? Because your attitude is despicable. Are we friends or foe?”

Rain smiled—slow, cruel, razor-sharp—his glare pinning Julian in place.

“I… Snow, my issue is with Rain, not you.”