Chapter 35

As the music faded and the applause filled the hall, I stepped back, catching my breath. August, as expected, was immediately surrounded by women eager to dance with him. I understood this, of course, but watching him talk to a guest to the next left me feeling unexpectedly alone.

On the other hand, while the men around me were polite and respectful, none seemed bold enough to ask the Empress herself to dance. Whether it was due to my status or their scared to dance with me in front of August, I wasn't sure. Either way, I was left standing off to the side, watching the festivities unfold as a quiet observer.

I sighed softly, sipping from my glass and pretending not to notice the couples twirling across the floor. Despite the lively atmosphere, I felt like an outcast. After drinking the fifth glass of wine that I had, I was slightly a bit tipsy so I decided to leave the party but that's when I heard a familiar voice.

"Nerina, would you like to dance with me?"

I turned around, surprised to see Glenn standing there with a warm smile on his face. I hadn't expected him to come, let alone ask me to dance. He extended his hand, and without hesitation, I placed mine in his, feeling a surge of excitement.

"Of course, with pleasure!" I replied, my voice a little more enthusiastic than I'd meant. Maybe it was the drinks or just the relief of seeing a friendly face.

He led me gracefully to the edge of the dance floor, careful not to draw too much attention to us, as if understanding that I wanted to be away from the crowd for a moment.

The lively music shifted into something more graceful and steady. Since Glenn had been the one to teach me how to dance, our movements were perfectly in sync. Our breathing matched in rhythm, and I found myself relaxing more with each turn. Dancing with Glenn felt comfortable, and I found myself smiling, the tension that had built up throughout the night easing away.

"You still remember everything I taught you," he said, a teasing grin on his lips.

"How could I forget?" I replied, my smile widening. "You're a very strict teacher."

Glenn laughed softly, his eyes sparkling with a hint of mischief. "Only because you needed it." He twirled me smoothly before pulling me back, close enough that I could feel the familiarity and comfort in his presence.

As the dance ended, I felt the ground beneath me shift slightly. I couldn't help but laugh at my own unsteady steps. Glenn's hand was quick to steady me, holding me in place with a firm but gentle grip.

"How much did you drink?" he asked with a raised eyebrow, though there was amusement in his tone.

I giggled. "Maybe… a bit too much."

Glenn chuckled, shaking his head. "Come on, let's take a breather first. Let's go outside on the balcony for some fresh air."

I nodded, letting him guide me toward the balcony, the cool breeze hitting my face as soon as we stepped outside. The noise of the banquet hall faded behind us, replaced by the quiet of the night and the sound of distant music.

"Better?" he asked, leaning against the railing beside me.

I took a deep breath, feeling the cool air clear my head a little. "Much better." I glanced at him, grateful for the moment away from the party, away from everything. "Thanks, Glenn."

Glenn nodded, but I could sense the concern in his gaze. He stepped closer and grab both of my hands and for a brief moment, it felt like the world around us slowed down.

"Are you happy, Nerina?" he asked, his tone gentle but with an edge of sincerity. The question caught me off guard, and I turned to face him fully, meeting his steady gaze.

"Well-"

My voice was cut off when someone spoke behind us. 

"Get your hands off of my wife or shall I cut it off for you instead?" His voice was cold and terrifying while glaring at Glenn.