Page 65 of A Dagger in the Ivy

“Yes, of course.” Torbin puts his hand on his chest. “Idecided it would be even more thrilling to jump the stone quarter wall at the edge of the estate.”

Dante, who has been listening intently, raises an eyebrow. “Did you make it?”

“Well,” Torbin says, laughing, “Celeste’s horse did just fine. But mine? Not so much. I ended up tangled in a bush on the other side, while my horse trotted off like nothing happened.”

Nadya giggles. “I remember Celeste telling me about it in the morning. She couldn’t keep a straight face. I thought for sure you two would be found out somehow.”

“I thought so too,” I admit, smiling at Torbin. “But we were never caught.”

Torbin raises his glass in a mock toast. “To our reckless childhood adventures and not getting caught—most of the time.”

Dante joins in the toast, smirking at me. “To not getting caught.”

“What about you, Brother?” Torbin reaches over and playfully slaps him on the shoulder. “What kind of trouble did you get into before you graced me with your presence?”

Dante cuts his gaze toward him, tilting his head slightly. “I’d much rather keep those tales to myself.”

Torbin narrows his eyes, but his smile remains. “No, no, Brother. I know that look. You can’t glamour your way out of this.”

“Why not?” Dante slowly swirls his drink in the air.

“Because, you can’t just use your magic on people whenever you feel like it. It’s not fair play.”

“Sure, I can. I’m the bastard, remember? That means I can do pretty much whatever I want.”

Torbin’s smile widens. “I think you’re just trying to make me envious.”

“Usually, the situation is reversed.” Dante’s eyes meet mine for the smallest of seconds.

“Ah, the truth comes out.” Torbin chuckles and then takes a quick sip of his drink. “You know what, Dante? I believe this is the longest we’ve ever gone without you insulting me.”

“Well, I hate to disappoint. Let’s give it a minute.”

The drinks flow and the conversation carries on. By the time the candles shrink down to small stubs, my body feels light and my vision sways.

I put my hand on Nadya’s arm. “I hate to break up the fun, but I know my limit. I need to turn in.”

“What? It’s so early.” She holds her glass out for a refill.

“It has been a tedious day. I spent the entirety of it in the council chambers going over treaties, debating trade routes, and finalizing the troop deployments for the northern borders.” Torbin pours a bit more liquid in Nadya’s glass, then turns to me. “I’m ready to turn in as well. But I will escort you to your room first, Celeste.”

“That’s not necessary,” I say.

“Wouldn’t want you stumbling around the castle, getting lost trying to find your way to your room.”

“I’m fine.” I stand, and the room spins.

I don’t even realize I’m teetering until Torbin catches my arm.

“Sure you are.” Torbin chuckles.

“I forgot to mention that Celeste is a lightweight,” Nadya teases.

Torbin retrieves his sabre and sheathes it before he returns to my side. He turns back to his brother and Nadya. “Help yourself to the rest.”

He twirls me toward the door, and I have to steady myself so I don’ttrip.

I look over my shoulder. “Good night, Nadya.”

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