Page 75 of Kiss of Fire

“Will you be there?”

“I haven’t been invited.” He eyed her curiously. “You don’t seem very excited.”

“I don’t like being the centre of attention.”

“You’ll be fine. And Lord Shadeed will be by your side. He’ll look after you.”

“I guess.”If he doesn’t lose his temper at me for being nervous and tongue-tied.

Tor studied her closely.

“Is everything all right, Raya? Between you and Lord Shadeed?”

She knew she shouldn’t say anything. Tor worked for the Vulcani. Shade had made it clear she was to keep up the charade of their betrothal in front of him.

But she liked Tor. And she didn’t have anyone else to talk to. Nevertheless, she chose her words carefully.

“Sometimes I think he only asked me to get engaged to secure the support of the Vulcani,” she said quietly.

“I don’t believe that’s true. Look at what he just did for you. Finding that rose. He cares for you, Raya.”

“I think he cares more about getting the throne than me.”

“How do you feel about him?”

Good question. Jury’s out on that one.

“Look, forget I said anything. And please don’t tell Loris what I said.” She gazed at Tor imploringly. “It’s the one thing Shade asked me not to do.”

“I would never betray your confidence.”

“You’re a good friend.”

Tor wasn’t so sure. He couldn’t deny his heart had lifted a little when she confessed her doubts about Lord Shadeed. The memory of that kiss, that all too brief kiss on his cheek, had somehow got under his skin.

“How about coming to the Melae tomorrow?” He kept his voice casual. “It’ll give you a chance to relax.”

“I don’t know. What would Shade think?”

“He’s not going. I asked Pasha. And no-one will knowyou’rethere either. Everyone will be masked.”

An incognito street party. It was perfect. And Tor was right. Shedidneed to relax.

“Okay, I’ll go. But only if you’re going.”

“I’m going. And I should warn you, I will insist on a dance.”

“I would be honoured. It’s the least I can do. I owe you a big thank you for helping me with my power.”

He raised an eyebrow.

“Would that be the same kind of thank you as before?”

Raya realised he was flirting but she didn’t mind.

“Only one way to find out. Tomorrow?”

“Aye then. Tomorrow.”

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