Page 156 of Gift from the Source
“I remember. I was so clumsy. You constantly had to catch me.”I close my eyes, letting the memory comfort me.
“He’ll catch you as well. You look beautiful, by the way, filia mea.”
“Thank you. I’m so happy Elementra let you see this moment.”
“My presence is needed.”He doesn’t expand any more than that. Before I can say anything else, Keeper clears his throat.
“I’ll warn you, I’m a tad clumsy,” I say as I open my eyes and meet his hopeful stare.
“I’ve got you, Adored.”
My shrill morphs into a laugh as he whisks us across the floor so fast everything around me is a blur. My feet move right along on top of his, but I couldn’t even begin to tell you what we’re doing.
“Is this really how you all dance in the Keep?”
“Yes. Granted, everyone is moving like this, but we do know how to go slower,” he says as his speed descends to match everyone around us.
“I’d say that would be fascinating to watch, but I don’t know if I would be able to keep up.”
“If you were to come to the Keep, we’d put on a royal show you’d be able to watch.”
“If? You mean when. I have every intention of us visiting you in the Keep. You won’t be losing us when you go home,” I say, squeezing his hand.
“You are a treasure, Willow Vito.”
“As are you, Dericko Keeper,” I whisper.
Another voice clears and the two of us turn at the noise. “I’d like the opportunity to twirl my granddaughter around.”
I grin as Keeper helps me off his feet and passes me over to Gaster. They bow to each other dramatically and I shake my head at how these ancient men act like children together.
“He’s a showoff,” Gaster teases as we start our dance.
“He’s a grand ol’ time.” I laugh.
“If you say so.” He rolls his eyes playfully before his brow smooths out. “How are you enjoying your first ball?”
“It’s wonderful,” I say.
“That was very unconvincing, and your aura flashed,” he scoffs, calling me out.
I hum, thinking about how I want to put this into words. I really am having a wonderful time. Aside from the bullshit with the five, it’s been a magical night just like I wished for.
I’ve laughed so much my cheeks hurt. The looks and touches I’ve been receiving from my men constantly just add to their reddening.
Watching my best friends and all the other girls here get twirled around like princesses as well has been a beautiful show to see.
“Much like every day here lately, it seems to be flying by. There’s been moments that will go down in my memory as the funniest and most enjoyable I’ve ever had. I had a magical dance with my men like I wanted.Reached a new level in sisterhood. Confronted some adversaries. And have spent time with all my family.”
“But?” he presses.
“But…I feel like there’s something I’m missing.”
“Well, it’s a good thing the night is still young. Plenty of time for more fun, child.”
Plenty of time.
I give him a grateful smile and lean my head on his chest as we continue to twirl around. My chest shakes with laughter as Corentin, Aurora, and Cas spin into my sight. She’s forcing both to dance with her.
