Without waiting for a reply, Demian strode off, leaving Kaiser alone in the long castle corridor surrounded by unanswered questions and a growing sense that he had just been pulled into something far more complicated than a simple party.
And far down another corridor, Valerie paused.
Her hands clenched beneath the folds of her skirt.
She heard Demian's footsteps retreating. Felt the tension he carried, even without turning back.
But this time… she did not return. Did not explain. Did not try to clarify anything at all.
Because for the first time, she was tired of being the only one who had to justify her own existence.
Valerie had just been about to pass through the side door when Demian's hand closed around her wrist.
Not rough but firm enough to stop her.
"Leave," Demian ordered curtly, without looking at anyone but Valerie.
Sera and Lira startled. They exchanged uneasy glances.
"Now," Demian repeated, his tone leaving no room for argument.
