Page 60 of Blood and Roses

"I couldn't say. They were a gift from El... Prince Bleddyn," Rosa answered with a smile. She really would have to find a way to thank him for the night. She doubted if any human had seenso many fae in a thousand years. None that had lived to tell the tale.

The faerie lady touched a pin with a long finger. "Oh, yes, I'm definitely right. They are made from distilled night tears. An excellent gift."

Rosa hadn't seen the final preparations to the ballroom, but Cecily and the others had pulled it all together spectacularly. The roof was hung with buntings of leaf and vine so that it looked as if they had stepped under a canopy of greenery. The fairy lights twinkled amongst the leaves and complemented the huge crystal and candle chandelier. Around the walls were magnificent tables of food, flowers, drinks, and elaborate centerpieces. Musicians positioned themselves on a small stage as a few of the fae produced instruments and began to join in until the melodies were swelling up around them.

"The honor of the first dance shall go to my esteemed guest, Lord Ryn," Eli said jovially.

The faerie smiled graciously and looked about the room for a partner. Rosa didn't think such theatrics existed in the real world.

You are in a ballroom filled with the fae and Gwaed Gam. I don't think this qualifies as real life.

Then the crowds were parting, and Ryn Eurion was standing in front of her with a smile before bowing low to her. Rosa watched Balthasar go pale next to Eli, who whispered something to his son.

"My lady, would you do me the honor?" Ryn asked softly.

Rosa felt herself take his hand before she could question it. "I should warn you, my lord, I'm not a very good dancer."

"Do not fear. I'm a very good dancer, so follow my lead." The musicians started a slow waltz, and Rosa allowed Ryn to glide her about the floor with practiced ease. Within a couple ofmoments, Eli lifted his hand and signaled everyone else to join in.

"I must admit I'm a little surprised to find a human in these proceedings," Ryn said as he pulled her closer. "Who are you, little rose?"

"I'm a friend of Prince Bleddyn's. He invited me here to witness such an important moment in history," Rosa said confidently.What had Celyn already told him?

"I don't normally pay attention to humans. Their lives are such guttering candles, but there is something strikingly familiar about you. Are you sure we have not met on another occasion?" He spun her out before pulling her back in close. The pendant hidden in between her breasts started to burn painfully.

"I think that I would remember such a fortuitous event," Rosa answered breathlessly.

"Excuse me, may I cut in?" Balthasar's voice was like cold water drenching her burning mind. Ryn turned to frown at the interruption. "Lord Bleddyn would like a word with you, Ryn."

"Of course, Leiddiad. I barely recognized you not covered in the blood of my people. Do try to treat my lovely partner with care. I'm not finished with her this night." Ryn smiled, but it was sharp and feral. "Until we meet again, little rose."

Rosa curtseyed but didn't offer him her hand, not after Celyn's kiss. Balthasar took her about the waist, gripping her firmly to him. Rosa's pulse raced as his hand wrapped around hers. She wanted to hang on to him like a child who had just escaped stepping on a snake.

"I see you are causing a minor stir already," Balthasar said softly. "Are you okay? Nobody has tried anything on you?"

"I'm fine. Not a hitch. I think Ryn was attempting some kind of compulsion. My necklace is still burning, and I feel like my brain is about to turn to mush."

"You are wearing it?" Balthasar's eyes went to her breasts appreciably, and she blushed.

"Of course I'm wearing it. That doesn't mean I'm silly enough to show it off."

"Good. There are some here that would try to hurt you just for having the guts to wear it to such an event." Balthasar's thumb ran over the back of her hand. "You look incredibly beautiful tonight. I wish we were alone so I could show you how much I appreciate this dress. Eli does know my taste well."

"You don't look half bad yourself. What was that word Ryn called you?"

"Leiddiad. It's my title amongst the fae. It means assassin."

"Your reputation precedes you even into Faerie."

"It wouldn't be a good reputation if it didn't." Balthasar turned so her back was pressed against him. "Does it frighten you?"

Rosa looked over her shoulder at him. He was so close, she could have kissed him. Her lips ached to taste his, but she resisted, knowing it could expose them both. "You don't frighten me, Regardless of what your reputation is." He moved her out of the circle of dancers to a quiet corner out of sight.

"Eli told me about Celyn's hex. I can't help but wish that Eli had sent you away to keep you safe.”

"You can't lock me away forever. I'm a part of this world now whether you like it or not. I would risk a thousand sleazy Celyns to see you in this tux. I would risk a hell of a lot more to get you out of it later tonight." He touched her neck slowly with his fingers.

"What I wouldn't give to kiss you right now," he whispered, leaning close to her.

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