The music swelled as Evelina and Cael stepped onto the dance floor. All around them, couples continued their waltzes, spinning and turning in a kaleidoscope of jewel-toned gowns and dark coats.
But as Evelina and Cael moved deeper into the crowd, the whispers began, quiet at first, then spreading like ripples in a pond.
"Did you see how the emperor looked at Lady D'Arclight when he announced the betrothal?" a young noblewoman murmured to her partner as they turned together.
"Everyone saw it. She was his first choice. Everyone knows it," her partner replied, guiding her through a spin.
"But instead, she chose to get with the son of a marquis." She laughed lightly as she came back into his arms.
"A marquis's son who's just as dangerous as his father with magic."
"Still. Turning down a crown prince for... that."
"Look at him. Look at them." He dipped her low, and her gaze followed his toward Evelina and Cael. "Then ask yourself if she made the wrong choice."
