Page 12 of Upon Shattered Bonds

“As your sovereign, I wish you only the greatest happiness together. As your sister, I’ll endeavor to support you as you both so deserve.” She beamed with an affection that was as tangible as the glass she raised toward the couple. “To my brother and my best friend: may your lives together be as wonderful as you both.”

A chorus of agreement trumpeted through the air as wine was sipped and hugs were exchanged. The emcee, the title fittingly given to Nina’s lieutenant Xavier, launched into the list of activities for the night.

That was when Xavier announced that Nina was on deck with a solo serenade on the piano.

“What now?”

Zeke’s attention snapped toward Nina once more, noting immediately the look of bewilderment that pinched her eyebrows together and her lips pout. For a woman who’d seen the trials of time and never come out wanting, the expression made her look young and innocent.

And completely unaware of what Xavier had just announced.

From beside her, Blair cackled. “Oh, you didn’t know?”

Nina turned her attention from Xavier to the vampire beside her, a vexing glint in her eye. Even across the room, the pair’s low voices could plainly be heard.

“When were you going to tell me?”

“Now.” Blair shrugged. “If I’d asked you earlier, you’d have said no.”

“And what, exactly, will I be singing for everyone?”

Kaien’s lips tugged up in a smile. “Sheet music’s on the piano. It’s our wedding, Nina. You can’t say no.”

“Is that true?”

A single eyebrow shot upward, revealing the mischievous nature of the woman they’d prodded into action. With a disgruntled, but obviously humorous, shake of her head, Nina rose from where she sat.

“It’s a good thing I love you.”

Xavier, taking it as his cue, eagerly urged the captivated audience into welcoming her to the stage. Clearly perturbed at his involvement, Nina cast the emcee a narrowed glance before taking a seat at the grand piano amid a thunderous round of applause.

After studying the sheet music for less than ten seconds, Nina’s hands rose to delicately rest against the keys. Zeke had never heard his would-be mate play—nor sing—and every cell of his being was riveted to the scene before him.

What he heard was the most enchanting serenade he’d ever had the pleasure of appreciating.

Against the dazzling backdrop of her masterful piano skills, her voice was without equal. Rich, dynamic melody entranced, the sound of her vibrato soothing a piece of his soul he’d never known was wanting. Zeke couldn’t bring himself to tear his eyes away from the woman who’d irrevocably given him the greatest gift he’d ever received in his life: her exquisite voice. Nothing and no one could have prepared him for the simple beauty of her extraordinary talent.

Every immortal in the audience had stilled around him, appreciating the show for what it was: a once in a lifetime experience.

And as Zeke listened, awestruck, he knew he’d never be the same.

When the melody ceased, he found himself on his feet, his hands thundering together in an applause meant for her ears alone. Around him, the other immortals were still entranced.

For that split second when Zeke alone had the wherewithal to praise her, her eyes locked with his, and everything about her expression softened.

The moment wasn’t meant to last.

Seconds later, the boom of the ballroom broke their connection, as it swelled with commendations and whistles of appreciation.

Kaien, who’d certainly known of his sister’s remarkable talent, happily came to stand beside her. Taking her hand, he presented her to the audience. Giving a subtle bow of her head at the continuing applause, Nina shyly retreated to her chair beside Blair.

The bride, looking entirely too pleased with herself, clutched Nina in a tight hug and whispering something in her ear. Before Zeke could catch the response, music began pouring from the speakers.

Before long, couples were swirling together on the dance floor, the thump of contemporary and classic music thundering through the air. Though Zeke had no desire to participate, he enjoyed their enthusiasm.

Seeing Nina dance was nearly as enchanting as listening to her sing. She sashayed with long, graceful movements, the lace tulle of her dress swaying belatedly with each step. His appreciation was only tempered by a bitter taste of jealousy because Nina wasn’t dancing alone. Nero had stolen her hand and was currently whirling her around the dance floor, both sovereigns glowing with joy.

Clenching his jaw, Zeke purposefully turned away.

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