Selene’s POV
The hall was lit with silver and gold chandeliers. Everything sparkled. Everything reeked of excess.
Of control.
The table was long, but only two of us were seated. Me, at one end, wearing a gray dress I hadn’t chosen, my back straight—more from pride than protocol.
Aedrian, at the other end, relaxed, cutting pieces of red meat with slow, almost lazy movements.
There was soft background music. String instruments played by invisible musicians.
And meticulously served dishes.
But I didn’t eat.
I only took small sips of dark wine, just enough not to be forced to drink more.
Aedrian spoke politely. He asked about my childhood. About books. Places. Packs. He feigned interest with the skill of a seasoned actor. Every phrase was more of a dance than a conversation.
I gav
