I stood near the edge of the ballroom, sipping the champagne Faruk had handed me earlier, my eyes wandering around the extravagant scene. The live orchestra that sat on a platform played beautifully their music filling the air. The elegance was overwhelming, and each detail was meticulously arranged to impress the noble guests who filled the space. Everything felt surreal as if I were watching from outside my body. I looked at the throne that sat on another high platform and imagined Lucien sitting there.
Faruk was engrossed in conversation with a group of men—business, no doubt, judging by their serious expressions and clipped tones. His attention was elsewhere, so I took a moment to let my guard down, allowing myself to take in the beauty of the party.
“Mind if I steal you for a dance
