Well Beyond

19*

Later that evening, I prepare for the party, choosing an outfit that's both elegant and alluring. The thought of seeing Emma again, especially in the context of one of Jasper's wild gatherings, sends a rush of excitement through me.

At exactly 9 PM, I wait by the Castle gates. The night air is cool, and the distant sounds of music and laughter drift from the grand halls. Soon, Emma appears, looking stunning in a form-fitting red sparkly dress that accentuates her curves. Her glasses are now gone from her face, allowing me to see her freckles in their entirety. Her curls look more refined than when I saw her a few hours prior. I can't help it as I shamelessly admire her.

"Wow," I breathe out as she approaches. "You look incredible."

"Thank you," she says, twirling playfully. "Shall we?"

We walk through the gates together, the anticipation building with each step. The Castle looms above us, its lights glowing warmly against the night sky. I guide her to the private ballroom door. The sounds of sultry music trickle from under the door. I turn to her. 

"These parties aren't to everyone's taste," I say carefully. "You are free to leave at any time, honestly. Just let me know." 

She tenses slightly before whispering. "Are they really that wild?"

I nod as we enter, the energy of the party hits us immediately—laughter, music, and the clinking of glasses filling the air. Emma looks around, her eyes wide with amazement. 

"This is amazing," she says, taking in the opulent surroundings, not noticing some of the other amenities of the party. 

My eyes instantly find the similar lounging furniture. Two women are adorned on it, kissing each other passionately. A crowd is slowly growing around them in anticipation for the show ahead. I cast a look to Emma, who has yet to notice anything too explicit. 

I lean over to her, whispering in her ear. "Want to get a drink?"

"Absolutely," she grins back at me, her eyes twinkling with excitement.

We make our way through the crowd, the lively energy of the party buzzing around us. The grand ballroom is filled with people, all engaged in animated conversations or dancing to the music. Crystal chandeliers hang from the ceiling, casting a warm, golden glow over everything.

We reach the bar, and I signal the bartender. "Two glasses of champagne, please."

He nods and quickly pours the sparkling liquid into two flutes, handing them over with a polite smile. I take one and pass it to Emma, who accepts it with a playful wink.

"To new friendships and wild nights," she toasts, raising her glass.

"To new friendships and wild nights," I echo, clinking my glass against hers. We both take a sip, the champagne's bubbles tickling my nose as we stand at the bar.

Emma leans in closer, her voice low and intimate. "You know, this place is even more incredible than I imagined. I can't wait to see King Alaric. I've never seen him in person."

"I'm sure he will be around here somewhere," I say, scanning the crowd for Jasper, but failing to spot him.

Suddenly, I feel a firm body press against my back. One of his hands cups my hip, pulling me closer. The man sweeps my hair off my shoulders, kissing down my exposed neck softly. I don't have to see him to know it's Jasper.

"Looking for me, baby?" Jasper murmurs against my skin.

I glance over at Emma, who stands frozen, staring wide-eyed at us in disbelief. I grin at her.