The grand dining hall was covered in golden light from the chandelier.
The long table was already set with cutlery, centerpieces of violet blossoms, and enough wine to drown a kingdom.
The concubines had arrived early, each one seated, their gowns competing with the light from the chandelier, their makeup flawless, posture perfect. A gallery of beauty, all waiting for one man.
Thorne.
But he wasn't here yet.
Adina stood behind the chair where Thorne would sit. After all, she was the one still tasting his food. She kept her head down, but her ears were sharp, listening to everything.
Elara stepped in just as the last concubine arrived. Irene. The two met, stopping in front of each other as though to greet. Elara was draped in deep red velvet that hugged her body like a second skin. Her hair was pulled into a high ponytail, and her lips shimmered in gloss. She looked like one of them. A concubine.
