Small Victory

Without hesitation, Eve accepted his hand, her eyes meeting his with a sense of determination. "The honor is all mine, Your Grace," she replied, her voice laced with a polite yet distant tone. As they made their way to the center of the dance floor, the room hushed in anticipation, the guests parting to make way for the Duke and his partner.

"Pay them no mind," Lucius advised, his voice dripping with authority. "Focus solely on me."

Eve nodded subtly, her gaze fixated on Lucius, searching for any trace of the man she once knew. The music began, its melodic notes filling the air, and they moved as one, their steps precise and calculated.

Memories of their past relationship flooded Eve's mind, the times she had protected and cared for him as a brother. But now, a deep betrayal lingered, fueling her resolve to keep her true intentions hidden. Lucius, however, appeared composed, seemingly unaffected by the intensity in her eyes.