Domain of Power-The Dreamer (Book 3)

Chapter 21: Silent Prey

I was still awake in the carriage, rattling with every crack and bump in the road. I peered over the partition, its wooden edge grazing my shoulder, while the warm breeze whipped my curls. The turning spokes blurred together as I contemplated the daring leap I would have to make. The only thing stopping me from leaping was how much it would hurt if I missed my footing.

I slumped back in my seat when I realized Maximus and Athena were staring at me with bewildered grins as if I were one of the caged animals I saw in the market stalls, clawing at the bars to escape. Maybe I was being unduly fearful. But I had no way of knowing how much Gaius shared with his son. I dared not ask without exposing my hand. So, the best I could do now is play coy.

As we slowed to a stop, Maximus directed my attention to the grand theater ahead, its majestic presence enhanced by the rolling hills nestled behind it. Taking in the scene, I observed the bustling central courtyard in front of us, filled with patrons socializing and preparing to enter through the many arched entrances that encircled the ground floor. So far, no sign of Gaius. Yet.

"Priscilla!" Athena exclaimed. I squinted in the direction her dainty finger pointed. A young lady wearing her black hair in an updo turned towards our carriage. A blue gem sparkled from her neckline in the sunlight. 'Priscilla,' I mouthed.

Athena was the first to make her way off the chariot. The only thing keeping her from running was the long purple stola that she had to hold up to keep from tripping. Athena crossed the courtyard to greet Priscilla with quick pecks on each cheek. Titus, who was chattering with one of the Aurelius brothers, stopped to greet us when he sensed our presence. My jaw tightened when we made eye contact.

"Looks like someone has found their perfect match!" Athena gushed. "Congratulations on your engagement!"

Priscilla thanked Athena in a subdued voice before squeezing her necklace.

Athena flicked her head back, turning her upturned nose in the air. "Please do share all the details of your upcoming wedding," she said, batting her eyelashes.

Priscilla flashed a sheepish grin when our eyes met. "You know me very well in that I always wanted a spring wedding like my parents."

Titus rolled his eyes. "She wants to wed in April," he added. "But it is too late for a spring wedding this year. We would have to wait for next spring, which would not be sensible if you asked me." I could barely stand to look at Titus after he made a tasteless joke about me at the baths. If he were coming to the theater, I might as well excuse myself now. Maximus, who stayed behind to converse with our driver, came over to greet us. But he was not alone.

Maximus gestured at the three young men accompanying him. "I believe we have all met." He must have sensed my apprehension because he continued. "This is Caius and his younger brother Cassius. And this is their cousin, Romulus."

They extended a formal greeting to me as they took turns shaking my hand. I did not recognize the older two, although the younger of the three looked the most familiar. I had seen him in passing at the baths. They seemed well-mannered, at least. A far cry from what happened at the baths earlier.

Maximus offered Titus and Priscilla the opportunity to join us in the theater, but Titus politely declined his offer. I secretly rejoiced that I would not have to see him snuggling next to Priscilla for the next hour or two.

Before they departed from our group, Priscilla leaned in to embrace Athena. "I wish I could join you, but Titus wants me to join his family for dinner instead. I am trying my best to please him."

Athena smirked. "Should not be too hard to do. Men are simple creatures." They shared a laugh.

"Well, most are," Priscilla added before Titus grabbed her hand to pull her away from the line.