The banquet passed in serene peace, and I felt relieved when it was over. After Eugenia took her leave, I freshened up and stared at my reflection in the dressing mirror.

I wasn't sure what I'd gotten myself into, but I didn't feel at ease. Elijah's scowling face kept flashing through my mind. Maybe he was the source of this relentless tension in my life.

Why does he keep glaring at me when I've done everything he told me to do? I didn't pick a fight with Elena; in fact, I think I handled it elegantly. Isn't that the kind of Luna Elijah wants? A queen who has poise, dignity,...