Chapter 24 · Dance of Light and Shadow

"Smile, Sera. You look like you're heading to your own execution, not a gala," Nora whispered, her voice a sharp contrast to the radiant, saintly beam she was projecting for the crowd.

Sera stiffened, her back arching as Nora’s hand slid firmly around her waist, pulling her flush against a gown that cost more than Sera’s last three bounties combined. The fabric was silk, cold and slippery, but Nora’s palm was searing through the thin material.

"Maybe because I am," Sera shot back, her voice low and jagged. "Give me one reason why I shouldn't trip you right here in front of the High Archon. Let's see how the 'Golden Girl' handles a face-plant in front of the entire city."

Nora didn't flinch. Instead, she tightened her grip, her fingers digging into the soft curve of Sera's hip. It wasn't a romantic gesture; it was a leash. "Because if I go down, I'm taking your little secret with me. One word from me, and you're not a rogue hunter anymore. You're a fugitive in a gilded cage."

Sera glared at her, the gold chandeliers of the Solis ballroom blurring into streaks of obnoxious light. "You're a monster, Nora. A fake.