The Crowns Choice

❦ Chapter Twenty Six: Charlotte ❦

Kaius and I exchange a glance as we navigate through the throng of guests. The ballroom is a sea of opulence—gilded chandeliers casting a warm glow over the polished marble floors, the air thick with the scent of roses and the soft murmur of conversation. But all I can think about is getting to the drinks table. The sooner I can dull the edges of this night, the better.

We reach the table and pour ourselves a drink, our movements in sync like we've done this a hundred times before—because we have. These events, these balls, have become a ritual for us, a dance of pretence and survival. The taste of the liquor is sharp on my tongue, but it brings a familiar warmth that spreads through me, loosening the tension in my shoulders.

Kaius clinks his glass against mine, his grin lopsided. "To surviving another night."

I laugh, a genuine sound that feels strange in this setting. "To surviving."

We drink, and the familiar buzz begins to set in, softening the edges of my anxiety. I let my eyes wander across the ballroom, taking in the scene. The remaining contestants are scattered around, mingling with the other guests, their navy suits making them stand out against the crowd.

"Sebastian's working the room like he owns it," I remark, nodding towards him as he charms a group of nobles with his easy smile and confident demeanour.

Kaius chuckles, following my gaze. "He's got that politician's air. Knows exactly what to say to keep everyone on his side."

"Oliver's not far behind," I add, spotting him in conversation with an older couple. "He's good with people. Makes everyone feel like they matter."

"Yeah, he's got that relatable thing going on," Kaius agrees. "He knows how to connect."

I nod, my gaze drifting to Jameson, who's leaning against a column, looking effortlessly composed. "Jameson's different, though. He's grounded, real. Doesn't put on a show."

Kaius raises an eyebrow, a smirk playing on his lips. "And Atlas?"

I feel my stomach flutter as I spot Atlas across the room, his posture a mix of confidence and discomfort. "Atlas...he doesn't belong here, and that's what makes him stand out. He's real, too. But in a different way."

Kaius gives me a knowing look, his smirk widening. "You've got a soft spot for the underdog, don't you?"

I roll my eyes, but I can't help the small smile that tugs at my lips. "Maybe. He's just...different."

"And Jasper?" Kaius asks, his tone shifting slightly.

I scoff, not even bothering to hide my disdain. "He's a Two. And that's the nicest thing I can say about him."

Kaius laughs, the sound loud and carefree, drawing a few curious glances from the surrounding guests. But we don't care. This is our moment, our small rebellion against the weight of expectations.

We continue our banter, the conversation flowing easily between us. It's a distraction, a way to avoid thinking about the decisions I'll have to make, the consequences that will follow. But the reprieve is short-lived.

"Princess," a voice interrupts, and I turn to find Alexander standing behind me, a polite smile on his face. "May I have this dance?"

I hesitate for a moment, glancing at Kaius, who just gives me an encouraging nod. With a sigh, I place my hand in Alexander's, and he leads me to the dance floor.

The music swells around us, the soft strains of the orchestra filling the room. Alexander is a skilled dancer, his movements fluid and confident as he guides me through the steps. The conversation is light, easy, and for a moment, I allow myself to relax.