The music flowed through the air, soft and enveloping. The glow of the torches cast dancing shadows around the makeshift dance floor.
Kael extended a hand toward me.
“Will you dance?”
My stomach tightened. This wasn’t just any request. Not with him. Not after everything that had happened tonight.
I nodded.
Sliding my hand over his, I let him guide me to the center.
Every step had to be carefully calculated. I wasn’t like the others. I couldn’t simply move and let myself go. Not without effort.
I took a deep breath, focusing on the energy flowing through my legs. I couldn’t afford to falter now.
Kael placed one hand on my waist and took the other firmly. His warmth surrounded me.
The rhythm of the music marked our first movement.
The sway was slow, a controlled balance. I let myse
