Page 101 of Rite of Unity

His eyes never left mine as the crowd burst into loud applause.

My grip tightened around his, but I pasted a smile on my face.

Chapter 24

Elias

Marynwasglowing,hersmile more beautiful than the moon’s reflection on the lake.

Tonight would cost me, but it would be worth it.I thought she’d understood.I thought I had made it plain, but just as Sera’s father had found August’s pressure point and squeezed, Sera had found mine.

I hadn’t known how much Maryn’s disappointment could hurt until I was on the receiving end of it.But I was tired of playing the Cannon family’s game.They may have more sons, buttheydidn’t run this nation.

I released Maryn’s hand, letting her go stand with the other matches as I faced the crowd once more.They were exuberant, as enamored with my girl as I was.

“And now, the results.”

I turned to face the wall as a drone flashed on, projecting the stats of Trial Six.I had already read them; it was why I’d chosen Phoebe as my second dance partner.I wanted a chance to talk with her, to let her know she would find someone great to match with.Even if that wasn’t me.

When the screen went black, I spun to face the room once more.“Phoebe.”

She approached, a single tear streaking down her face.She held up her hand as I untied the bow and tucked it into my pocket.

In the hush of our audience’s held breath, waves brushed the dance floor, a hypnotic sound that lulled my racing heart into submission.“Thank you, Phoebe.It has been an honor getting to know you.”

She dipped her chin and turned toward the exit.

When she was gone, the music resumed, and I searched for the head of hair so black it reflected the moonlight.

***

At home, Blight and Ruin rushed to the door.

“Sit,” I commanded.

They did, and I held out my hand, letting them sniff.

I moved through the foyer, toward the small living room at the back, where my mother spent most of her nights.

“Elias.A word.”

I halted, spinning to face my father.His brows, more gray than blond, were low slashes across his face.I had known he would be angry.Better to get it over with now—my night would be restless otherwise.

“What was the meaning of that speech tonight?”

I laced my hands behind my back, widening my stance.“I didn’t see you there, Father.Did you make an appearance at my ball?”

His hand flew faster than I could have dodged it.Not that I would have.Dodging a blow only meant something worse followed.My eye watered, but I held myself stiffly in place.

He’d never left a visible mark before.I’d finally tipped him over the edge.Who would have guessed it would be a Middle girl?

“You think you have it all figured out, don’t you?”He curled his hand into a fist at his side, and I pressed my shoulders back.“I heard from Sera’s father, whowasat your little party.”

The muscles in his forearm bunched.His gaze fell to my shoulders, to the arms held behind my back.

“It’s time for you to get your hands dirty.I’ve coddled you too long.”

I said nothing, waiting for the next punch.