Emperor of Annihilation

FORTY SIX

I step in front of him, mustering up the confidence to ask, "Want to dance?" My voice comes out stronger than I expected, but I embrace the feeling. After all, there's a first time for everything, right?

His eyes meet mine, and I quickly avert my gaze just in time to catch a slight tilt of his head, his eyes narrowing slightly as they glance past me. Nervously, I intertwine my fingers together, fidgeting as a way to distract myself from the fear of potential rejection. Before I can reconsider, I part my lips to retract my offer, but to my surprise, his words cut in before mine can escape.

"Sure, I don't see why not," he responds, his voice holding a hint of curiosity as he accepts my invitation.

As he takes my hand in his, a jolt of electricity courses through me, and he leads me confidently towards the center of the ballroom. Along the way, we pass Ezekiel, and I can feel his gaze boring into me like a laser. When I dare to glance in his direction, his expression is one of pure venom, his eyes narrowed into slits, his jaw clenched tight. It's a look that could pierce through steel, filled with a mixture of anger, jealousy, and resentment, leaving me feeling like I've crossed some invisible line.

This is only half of what he deserves. I feel no guilt.

Once we're settled in the center of the ballroom, his hand finds its place on my hips, and I respond by wrapping my arms around his neck, pulling him in closer. He's not my usual type, not by a long shot. In fact, he's practically the polar opposite of Ezekiel in terms of appearance. With his blonde hair, piercing blue eyes, and pale skin, he couldn't be more different.

As we sway to the slow rhythm of the music, he breaks the silence that hangs between us with his question. "So why did you come up to me out of all people and ask to dance?" he inquires, his voice carrying a note of curiosity.

I obviously can't tell him the truth otherwise I'd just come off as a jerk. So I came up with another not so obvious lie.

"You just looked lonely by yourself, so I wanted to introduce myself." I say as I hold my hand out. "Clementine."

There's a pause before he reaches for my hand, his gaze wary as he speaks. "I know who you are," he says, causing my breath to hitch in anticipation. Thoughts race through my mind, wondering how he could possibly know me.

"Your family ranks above mine. To not know you would be a sign of disrespect," he continues, his tone tinged with a hint of reverence.

Oh.

I smile. "What's your name?"

"Grayson." He replied.

His hand brushes over my shoulders before squeezing down. I use this opportunity to seek a glance over my shoulder at Ezekiel. My eyes fell onto the blonde right next to him, desperately seeking his attention with the way she was holding onto his arm, pushing her perky breasts onto him.

A surge of jealousy rushed through my blood and I fought the urge to run over there and push the bitch off.

I took a deep sigh. No, I really shouldn't.

Autumn and I made a promise not to start any drama tonight. However, given the fact both Mia and Amorėt were present in the same room as us, I doubt this night would pass without any drama.

At least the two didn't make an attempt to disturb me. I have to give thanks to Kenzo and Atticus for keeping them busy, and by that I mean not allowing the two out of their sight even for a minute.

Especially Atticus. He had an arm wrapped around Amorėt's waist, holding her close despite her quiet protests.

"As much fun as this has been, I'm afraid we have to part ways for the rest of the night," he said, his hand slowly slipping away from mine. My heart sank. "Why?" I asked, feeling a bit confused. I thought we were having a great time.