King Lucien turned.He did not raise his voice. He did not hurry.
But every instinct in the room sharpened.
"Release her," Lucien said calmly.
Valtherion's smile faltered just slightly. "Your Majesty, I was merely..."
"You were overstepping," Lucien interrupted, his gaze cold and precise. "My servants are not bargaining pieces."
Valtherion inclined his head stiffly, withdrawing his hand. "As you wish."
Lucien's eyes lingered on him for a long moment a promise wrapped in politeness.
Aria stood frozen, heat rushing to her face.
Lucien looked at her then.
Just once.
His expression gave nothing away but something passed between them, sharp and electric, before he turned back to the elders as if nothing had happened.
"Enjoy the ball," he said smoothly.
Aria bowed deeply and retreated, her heart racing.
Behind her, the music swelled again.
The Winter Ball continued—glittering, dangerous, and alive.
And Aria knew with terrifying certainty that she had just been seen.
