Page 42 of Rite of Unity

He watched me, nodding gravely.“But I want you all to know, we had a clear winner among our candidates.One who showed great forethought and, as far as we know, was the first ever to create a community service act exclusively serving our little girls.”

Warmth spread through my chest, and my vision grew blurry.

Elias looked at me again.“Maryn.You are our Trial Two winner.Your act of service displayed all the virtues of a Covenant woman.”

Elias spun me as the room cheered.

“Now.”He grinned.“This is a party.Let’s dance!”

Music blared to life, and Elias tugged me into his arms, moving us effortlessly.

I didn’t have time to consider the woman who lost her life to this Rite.The music had swallowed her name completely.It had taken less than a minute.

“I’m proud of you,” Elias said as he leaned closer.

I nodded, unable to find the words.

“And we’re going to make your act a regular community service rotation.”

I stepped back.“What?”

A smile split his face.“I thought you would be happy.”

“Happy.I’m...I’m...”I blinked rapidly.

“Shhh.It’s okay.See what good you can do when the camera is on?”

I nodded, letting him lead as my chest heaved.

When the song ended, Elias didn’t release me, pulling me with him to Ruth.I looked to her right, at the man standing beside her.“Mr.Silva.It’s good to see you.”

He beamed with barely contained joy, but he wasn’t looking at me.He dipped his chin to Elias, who returned the gesture, and cleared his throat.

“Can I have all of your attention?”

My gaze moved to Elias, who squeezed my hand but said nothing.My fingers twitched with the urge to pull free, but I stilled them.

Then Josh was kneeling, tugging a blue ribbon from his pocket, and Ruth burst into tears.

I looked to Elias.He caught my eye, and the corner of his mouth lifted slightly.

“Ruth.I’d like you to be my first match.”

Tears rolled down Ruth’s cheeks as she held out a shaky hand, and Josh moved unsteadily, tying a neat bow around her slender wrist.

Elias released my hand, slapping Josh on the back.“Great work, man.Come.Let’s celebrate.”

Josh stood, a grin splitting his face as Elias dragged him away.

I swallowed hard.“Ruth.”

She faced me, tracks running down her face.“I can’t believe it.”She threw her arms around me and squeezed.

Chapter 13

Maryn

Thedoorbuzzed,andI glanced at Mama.She shook her head and returned to her sewing.