Consequence

Chapter 13

April 29, 1813

We waltz in perfect sync as I allow Nik to lead me across the ballroom floor. I'm surprised by his eloquent dancing, it's not what you'd expect from such a strong and well built man.

It's weird to say, even in my thoughts, that he's more graceful than me. But it's the truth and I'm sure everyone else can see it too.
This is so embarrassing!

I also can't help but feel an overwhelming sensation to get even closer to Nik as our hands mold together. His grasp is slightly warm and reassuring like he would catch me if I were to fall.

Suddenly, the song slows down as our footsteps meet its pace. The world around us feels so distant and time seems to drag on slowly.

"Was I just dancing with the...king?" I ask in a low mumble already knowing the answer.

"Angel, you cannot speak to him for he is far worse than I." he whispers into my ear before spinning me out of his grasp and disappearing. How convenient, now I can't ask the questions that are buzzing around in my head. What a headache!

So, is the king a vampire? How is that even possible? I refuse to believe that. But what reason  would Nik have to lie to me?

Maybe he was jealous of him! He did dance with me! Usually, if not the father, the groom has the first dance with the bride.

"Eva!" I snap my head to see Vera waving me over, where she is talking to a group of pristine girls around our ages.

"Hello." I smile once I'm standing next to Vera.

They all stare as Vera introduces me. "This is Evangeline Klein, as you know, the wife of my brother. Eva, this is Margaret Charles, Polly Johnson and Fiona James."

They each look me up and down before resuming the conversation like I wasn't even there. Classic, pompous, rich girls. 

Vera shoots me an apologetic look before joining in on the conversation. Not liking how isolated and betrayed I felt, I walk towards an empty hall to escape the herd of dancing and endless chatter.

"Angie." A voice calls to me as I take a seat on a marble bench in the wide hallway. I look up expecting to see Nora, Nik's mom, but I'm surprised to find the King standing before me leaning against a marble column.

Why was he calling me Angie? I didn't tell him to or anything. We barely exchanged a few words, let alone any nicknames. Maybe he knew the same woman Nora knew, who had my name.

With what Nik said still fresh in my mind I start standing up to avoid a long encounter. I give him a small nod and bow before attempting to make my way back to the ballroom.

But a firm grip on my arm pulls me back into the hallway and seats me at the bench once more.
The King then takes a seat beside me, his figure was so tall that it hid my entire body from view.

Now no one will know I'm here...great. I subconsciously roll my eyes knowing this isn't going to end well if Nik finds out.

I meet his stern gaze and open my mouth to speak but quickly shut it when his face looks angry and...hurt?

"Why do you not wish to speak to your King?" He asks with mock sadness.

"I was instructed not." It slips from my mouth before I could stop myself.