It was a lovely evening in the glittering city of Velaris, where the streets glowed under crystal lamps and the sea breeze smelled faintly of roses. The world seemed peaceful—except inside Tina's mansion, which was always its own brand of chaos.
"There's no time, Miss Tina—we really have to go now."
Elijah called.
"Yeah, yeah, hold on a minute."
She bounded down the staircase, her white hair bouncing, and found Andrew lounging on the couch, sipping tea from his favorite mug.
"You've been talking about this outing all week."
He said, trying to sound nonchalant but his curiosity betrayed him.
"Where are you guys even going?"
"You mean where are 'we' going?"
She corrected, grinning.
"Mama's launching a new perfume line, and Mom's throwing a banquet to celebrate. Theme: A Royal Ball."
"…Right. But wait—we?"
"Yep. We're going together."
"I don't remember agreeing to this."
"Well, now you are."
"No."
"What?"
"I'm not going."
"But why?"
