Arabella sat in the dimly lit library, tracing the patterns on the wooden table as Selene stood nearby, her posture as regal and composed as ever. The flickering candlelight illuminated her sharp features, her golden eyes calm but carrying an unmistakable weight.
"There will be a tea party tomorrow," Selene announced smoothly, setting her book aside.
Arabella perked up slightly, momentarily relieved by the sound of something so normal. "A tea party?" she repeated.
Selene's lips twitched ever so slightly. "Not quite what you're thinking."
Arabella frowned. "What do you mean?"
Selene folded her arms, her fingers gliding over the rich silk of her dark gown. "It's a gathering. A few of my acquaintances will be attending. Ladies of the court, nobles, and aristocrats—vampires, of course."
