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I stand there completely confused while she returns to her husband.

What society? What did she mean by she thought I’d been invited?

My stomach dips. If there is a secret society, why hadn’t I been?

Frowning, I shake my head. Even if Castor is running the best, most interesting society in the realm, I want no part in it. Especially if it entails tying women to strange wooden racks and toying with them until they scream.

My heart flutters at the thought of it. Castor and his friends are sick. Heat builds inside me. It’s plain wrong. I wring my hands together. Women shouldn’t ever let men treat them that⁠—

“Still think William is a rapist?” I gasp as Castor’s voice teases my ear.

“Leave me alone.” I don’t meet his gaze. “I… I have to get back inside.”

“Preparing for tonight?” He grins.

I stiffen. “What’s tonight?” If he’s inviting me to this stupid society, I’m going to say absolutely not⁠—

“The silly ball Lux has insisted on throwing for you.”

“Oh…” How could I forget? He announced it a few nights ago over dinner. A romantic evening with music, my favourite food, and lots of dancing. It sounded wonderful.

Castor laughs. “Well don’t get too excited,” he says sarcastically.

I growl, “I am excited.”

“Of course you are.” Tapping me on the nose, he smirks. “A sweet little ball for a sweet little princess. Perfect for you, isn’t it?”

Snarling, I turn back to the manor. I don’t have to take this anymore. But before I can leave, Castor grabs my wrist. “Ah ah ah, we’re not finished yet.”

“What more could you possibly have to say to me?” I grumble as he pulls me closer.

His hand slides down my side. “You didn’t wear red for me.”

I shudder. “So?”

“I’ll give you a pass for the other day because you said you weren’t feeling well,” he murmurs against my ear. “But tonight at the ball, you will wear red for me.”

“And if I don’t?” My lips form a tight line. “What will you do? Tell Lux that I threw myself at you?” He won’t listen to him. I wasn’t sure a few days ago, but after last night I’m certain he’ll be on my side.

The brothers are close, but not as close as Castor wants me to think they are.

“No,” he purrs. “You’re going to wear red because otherwise I will assume you would like for me to treat you in the same way sweet Charlotte was treated last night.”

My insides flip. “I don’t want that,” I say, but my voice comes out all wrong.

Castor chuckles. “Then wear red, dear princess. The choice is yours.”

“Eden?”

I jump away from Castor to see Lux across the lawn. Relief washes over me as his smile meets mine. He either didn’t see Castor's hands against my hips or he could tell I didn’t want them there. Either way, I race towards him.

“Eden?” he laughs as I grasp his arm like my life depends on it. “Are you alright? Your cheeks are flushed.”

Wincing, I cup my face. “It’s just cold this morning. Winter is on its way.”

Lux nods, brushing his thumb over my cheek. “Of course it is. Let’s get you inside and into something warmer. You’re covered in goosebumps.” He leads me towards the manor while I lean against him. But as I nuzzle against his shoulder, my head turns and I see Castor watching me through the crowd, a dangerous glint in his eyes.

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