Page 298 of The Wishing Game

"I hate people," Ze grumbles when a couple scurries away, careful not to breach thedangerzone. All the while, the man warns his datenotto look at Ze—loud enough that even I can hear him.

"I think I hate people too," I mumble, once more incensed on his behalf.

"Do you want more chocolate?" he asks when he notices my almost empty plate.

"No. I'm full," I add absentmindedly as he takes the plate from me.

He nods slowly, but he doesn't take his eyes from me.

"Would you like some ale or wine?"

I shake my head, the taste of alcohol immediately inundating my mouth.

"No. I'm good," I mutter, doing my best not to retch.

"Juice?"

I shake my head again.

"Water?" he continues.

"No, thank you."

"Hot chocolate?"

Now, that gets my attention. And not because I want some—I've had enough chocolate, thank you very much. But because Ze is being odd.

Turning to look at him, I note his brows bunched together as he studies me.

"What do you want then? Tell me and I shall get it for you."

"I don't want anything."

"Youmustwant something. Tell me. Whatever it is, I will get it for you." He lays his hands on my shoulders in assurance.

"I'm serious, Ze. I don't want anything. But thank you for asking."

"Not even a cow from your world? I could get you one—just the meat this time. It might take me a bit longer to go to your world and return, but I can bring it to you in...ten minutes?"

"Ze." I blink. "What's wrong with you? Why are you suddenly bent on getting me something?"

He pauses, watching me with trepidation as he bites his lower lip.

"You do not want anything?"

"No. I told you."

He takes a deep breath before he nods, turning away from me.

"Ze. Can you tell me what brought this on?" I ask as I pull on his sleeve, willing him to face me.

He doesn't, merely staring ahead. But slowly, he signals around us with his hand, pointing to thedangerzone. It takes me a few moments to realize what he means.

My heart is in my throat, my mouth suddenly dry.

He was trying to distract my attention from the fact that people are openly insulting and avoiding him.

Just at that moment, the orchestra changes its tune, going into a melody that resembles a waltz as Wyn and Cer slide onto the dance floor, their feet moving gracefully to the sound of the music. Far from the tense look he sported previously, Cer is gazing upon his sister with brotherly adoration.

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