Despite Varen’s best efforts to lift my spirits during the ball, Mr. Renfield’s words echoed in my mind throughout the night. As unsettling as they were, I couldn’t deny their truth. If I managed to secure a position within the negotiation squad and have my name signed on the peace treaty, it would solidify my standing in the vampire world. The real issue, however, was that Selene’s name would be right there beside Hadrian’s—because, for all intents and purposes, she still held the title of queen and remained the vampires’ legal representative.
When I finally returned to my chambers, I found myself even more restless.
“God, this is so frustrating!” I shouted at my reflection in the bathroom mirror.
Even after washing my face and preparing for bed, I already knew sleep would evade me. My
