Page 84 of Heir of Illusion

It takes every ounce of my self-control not to squirm away from his touch as his hand settles on my hip, pulling me closer to his side. Instead of recoiling, I paste a vacant smile on my face.

“May I present Lady Iverson Pomeroy,” he says.

“The famouswraith?” Her eyes dance with delight as they flit back to me. “A pleasure to meet you, Lady Iverson. Your reputation is quite impressive.”

I bow my head politely. “The pleasure is all mine, Your Grace.”

Sneaking a glance at Selim, I find him watching me warily. He opens his mouth to say something right as another man appears on the landing. Whatever strange awareness came over me at the arrival of the two Gods, it doesn’t happen now.

The newcomer’s chestnut brown hair is pushed back, putting his blue eyes on display. I can admit he’s handsome, but there’s something about the smug glint in his eyes that tells me he’s too aware of that fact. It’s as if he’s ready to be adored by all who bear witness to his greatness.

Standing a few feet behind him is another man. Despite his smooth, unwrinkled skin, the way he carries himself makes him appear older than the other one, more mature. The sharp cut of his jaw combined with the coldness of his gaze gives him an air of ruthlessness. He’s definitely not one to underestimate.

“Foley, Heir of Life.” The announcer’s booming voice cuts through the room. “And Leland, Adviser to the God of Life.”

The crowd doesn’t kneel again, since there isn’t a God among their small party, but they do bow their heads as a sign of respect for the Heir.

“Welcome,” Baylor says as they approach the dais, joining Selim and Cassandra. “We are pleased you could make the journey.”

Foley sneers, crossing his arms over his chest as he searches the room for something more interesting. While most Heirs are hidden away from the public, the God of Life has kept his son by his side since the day he was born. Judging by Foley’s attitude, I’d say being raised in a humbler environment would probably have done him some good. For a man slightly older than me, he somehow manages to carry himself with the petulance of a teenager.

“Thank you for inviting us,” Leland responds for both of them.

I imagine Eyrkan sent his adviser along to smooth over any ruffled feathers his son may cause. Based on the not-so-covert nudge he gives the young Heir, Leland is used to such duties.

“Yes,” Foley grumbles, rolling his eyes. “We’re so very honored by your hospitality, King Baylor.”

From the corner of my eye, I notice the vein at Baylor’s temple is pulsing faster. The lack of respect is likely eating him alive, but somehow, he manages to refrain from commenting on it. Thank the Fates for small miracles.

“I see your manners haven’t improved, boy,” Cassandra interjects, having no need for restraint.

Foley turns to the Goddess and sketches an extravagant bow, the movement laced with insincerity. “How wonderful to see you again, Cassandra. Please entertain us all tonight with your little party trick.”

“It’s no trick.” Her voice deepens unnaturally. “Speak to me with disrespect again, and I might tell you what I’ve seen inyourfuture. And trust me, it’s not for the faint of heart.”

Foley scoffs, but judging by the way his face pales, her words had their intended effect. His eyes widen as he notices me standing next to Baylor for the first time. I don’t miss the way his gaze rakes over my body with undisguised interest. Given his reputation as a notorious rake, the reaction isn’t surprising.

Baylor’s grip on my hip turns possessive. “I see you’ve noticed my pet.”

“I imagine that’s the reason you keep her around, is it not?” He reaches for my hand and brings it to his lips.

Biting down on my rising disgust, I keep my face impassive.

“You call her ‘pet?’” he asks Baylor before turning his attention back to me. “I’ve never been fond of animals, my lady, but for you, I would make an exception.”

“You’re too kind.” I smile, but my eyes are full of daggers. My blood boils within my veins as I rip my hand from his grip, unable to stop the words that tumble from my mouth. “Unfortunately, I don’t make exceptions for sniveling brats.”

Fury detonates across Foley’s face, but before he can respond, Cassandra bursts out laughing.

“I like her,” she announces, brushing one of her dark braids over her shoulder. “You’ve done well with this one, Baylor.”

Gratitude swells in my chest. I catch her eye, hoping my small nod is enough to convey my thanks. Secrets twinkle in her golden eyes, and I can’t help but wonder if she intervened because sheknewwhat would happen if she didn’t. Foley doesn’t seem like the type to forgive any insult. Frankly, he reminds me of Kaldar—a little man, never content with what he has, always reaching for more. Still, I need to bite my tongue around him in the future. It would be foolish to make an enemy of a future God, no matter how odious he is.

“Perhaps we should all enjoy the festivities?” Selim interjects, his calming tone smoothing over the situation with an unnatural ease. I’d bet my life he’s using hisgiftsto quell the heightened tension among our small group. As the God of Accord, he’s blessed with the ability to soothe rising tempers. As much as I hate the idea of anyone toying with my emotions, I’m grateful for his interference right now.

“Please, make yourselves welcome,” Baylor calls as they step into the crowd, leaving us alone on the dais.

I watch them go, noting the way Selim glances back at me, his gaze narrowing with something resembling concern. I don’t have time to consider what that means before they are swallowed up by the crowd.

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