Chapter 76
“Victoria, dear. You’re welcome to keep staring, but after a certain point I usually charge a fee.” “Sorry.” I blink and look away, and find myself locking eyes with the Scholar, who is watching me intently. Shiara smiles, this time with a nasty edge, and slips off into the crowd. Olite touches my arm. “Did I miss something?” “Just … the wine. Or whatever it is. It’s been a while since I had any.” “I think that means you need a bit more,” he says. “Not just yet.” I look around for Meroe, surreptiously pulling myself free of Olite’s grip. “Do you—” “Do you think I could have a moment?” It’s the Scholar, stepping forward, his cane rapping sharply on the deck. “I suppose,” Olite mutters. “I will have another glass of wine, at least.” He turns back toward the table, leaving me at the f
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