Grace and Fury (Grace and Fury #1)(74)

The Superior stood up, his skeletal body moving slowly but precisely. He did not wince or pause. The quiet harp music provided by his Graces ceased.

“Good evening, my illustrious guests,” the Superior began, extending his bony hands in an expansive gesture. “I am honored to have you here on this special occasion, the twentieth birthday of my son and heir.”

Nomi glanced at Asa. His silver mask hid his expression.

The Superior continued. “Malachi has distinguished himself as an intelligent and conscientious man, one who has the skills and steadiness to one day take my place as the Superior. In the meantime, I welcome his larger role in the running of this country. I believe Viridia will benefit from his insight.”

Beside Nomi, Cassia shifted restlessly. Maris didn’t move.

“And now,” the Superior added, swinging his arm toward the doorway, “my son shall formally accept his first Graces.”

Cassia led the way onto the dais. Nomi followed her, with Maris bringing up the rear. They stopped and faced the dance floor, and Nomi bit back a gasp.

There were so many people: Graces, courtiers, and dignitaries. Servants moved through the crowd, carrying trays laden with food. And everyone, even the servants, wore masks.

How could she possibly find Renzo?

Nomi curtsied in tandem with the other girls, and the crowd applauded. The movement set dresses to sparkling. Nomi was nearly blinded.

What was she going to do?

Malachi bowed to the audience and then, to her surprise, he extended his arm to her. He was choosing Nomi for his first dance. Cassia’s face fell.

The music started again. Malachi led Nomi onto the dance floor. He didn’t remark on how wooden she was in his arms. As they began to move, for the first time she really studied his face. His mask hid his cheeks and nose, but his sharp jaw, dark eyes, and full mouth were still on display.

He knew she could read, but he hadn’t turned her in. He’d kissed her only once, and he’d never punished her for running away… or for any of the defiant things she’d said to him.

She kept waiting for him to be the horror Asa said he was, to break her. But had he ever really tried? He stared back at her, his intensity carving a hole into her heart. Over his shoulder, Asa smiled at her. A chill snaked down her spine.

Where was Renzo?

Malachi spun her around. Her gown dragged at her shoulders. Her corset clenched her ribs. “Nomi,” he said. “You look absolutely miserable.”

Her eyes flew to his face. “I’m so sorry, Your Eminence,” she said, trying to school her expression. “I’m just nervous.”

A flush crept up his throat. “No. I’m the one who’s sorry. After you left yesterday, I couldn’t stop thinking about what you said.”

Her eyes widened. What had she said? She couldn’t remember.

He continued, softer, so only she could hear. “Of course you feel lost here, especially without your sister. And it’s my fault. I chose you without thinking it through. I should have done my duty. Your sister prepared for this. She wanted to be a Grace. You never did, and I forced it upon you.”

Nomi found herself saying, “I’m sorry,” again, as if somehow her lack of enthusiasm was her fault. It was better than saying, Yes, you should have picked my sister, you stupid man. But she was so confused, so turned around. Why was he saying this to her? Why was he apologizing?

And where was Renzo?

She kept looking over Malachi’s shoulders as they spun, but the rest of the dancers were streaks of light and color. No features, no faces clear beneath their masks.

“I’ve no desire for an unwilling Grace,” Malachi said, so softly she almost missed the words. “I will force you no longer.”

Her mouth opened, but no sound came out. Suddenly, the problem of Asa and Renzo and Serina fell away. “What are you saying?”

“I’m saying I will free you from your obligation to me.” His eyes darkened with something like sadness. “You may leave if you choose.”

The words left her speechless.

His lips parted, and the warmth climbed from his neck to the skin beneath his mask. “But I hope you’ll stay.”

At that moment, something caught the corner of her eye.

Beyond Malachi, in the crowd… a figure in a red mask, black pants, and red-threaded jacket paused, head angled in her direction. She could tell in an instant, just by his height, the tilt of his head.

Renzo.

Malachi spun her again, and her brother disappeared into the crowd.

Across the room, the Superior was getting up. Asa was walking beside him, away from the party.

Panic exploded in Nomi’s chest.

“Your Eminence, I can hardly account for the honor you show me. May I have some time to consider your offer?” she asked, already stepping away, closer to where her brother had stood.

“Of course.” His hands drew her imperceptibly closer, as if he was reluctant to let her go. She wondered what his decision had cost him.

Just then, the song ended with a flourish, and Malachi leaned her back into a graceful dip. For an instant, their lips were a breath apart. Then he straightened, drawing her up with him. “Thank you for the dance.”

Nomi curtsied, breathless, and pressed through the crowd, searching frantically for Renzo. She studied every masked face, felt the press of bodies, and didn’t see her brother anywhere.