Page 33 of Secrets and Shadows

“Hey, are you all right?” Savina’s voice slices through the storm in my mind, pulling me back to the present.

Her perfectly sculpted eyebrows arch in concern as she settles gracefully onto the sofa beside me, effortlessly making herself at home. I don’t usually spend much time in the Predator common room, always trying to avoid any awkward run-ins with Vaughn. But after overhearing him and Simon talking about doing some research in the library, I’m seizing this rare opportunity to be out of my room without the usual tension of his presence looming over me—or the playful, teasing banter that never fails to leave me both flustered and utterly confused.

It doesn’t help that our... close encounter at the party keeps replaying in my dreams. It’s bad enough that I need a cold shower every time I wake up, and even when he’s not here, I’m still irritated.

A sigh slips from my lips as I try to push aside all the problems in my life that seem to start with the letter V, and focus on Savina’s question. “Yeah,” I murmur, “just... a lot on my mind.”

With a graceful flick, she tosses her long, black curls over her shoulder—a movement so effortless, I’d never hope to replicate it. “Is Vaughn bothering you again?” she probes, her tone light but curious. “You know, if he’s being a pain in the ass, feel free to curse him. Trust me, it’s quite therapeutic.” Her lips curve into a sly smile, a mischievous glint sparkling in her dark eyes. “And if you need help, I’m more than happy to assist. Cursing is sort of a specialty of mine.”

A small smile tugs at the corners of my mouth despite myself. As much as Vaughn gets under my skin, he’s not the source of my current turmoil. Savina continues to watch me closely, clearly fishing for more, but I don’t have anything else I can give her. No matter how much I want to confide in someone, I can’t.

“No, it’s not him,” I finally admit. “It’s... other things.”

“Other things?” she repeats, her tone playful, but her eyes betray her concern. Shit. “Like what?”

I hesitate, the question hanging heavy in the air. “When do you think we’ll be able to contact the outside world again? Or at least talk to someone outside the academy?”

Savina’s eyebrows shoot up, genuine surprise crossing her face. “Is that what’s on your mind right now?” she asks, incredulous. “Lilith, tonight is the annual masquerade. That’s literally all anyone is talking about! Have you even picked out your dress yet?”

I let out a sigh. Fuck, she’s right.

The annual masquerade ball, followed by the infamous Shadowing after-party, is the highlight of the year at the academy. Everyone raves about it, calling it the best night of their lives. Ishouldbe excited, Ishouldbe preparing for it, but my mind is elsewhere. As much as I know Savina means well, she wouldn’t understand. No one here would.

And that only makes me feel more alone.

“I know, I know,” I mumble, the words feeling empty.

“Try not to worry too much,” Savina says, her voice soothing. “It’s different every year, depending on a million factors. But if something’s weighing this heavily on you, maybe try leaning on someone within these walls.” She gestures around us with a playful smirk. “Granted, there’s not many of us to choose from in the Predators’ dorms, but I’m always here if you need me.”

Warmth spreads through me at her offer. I love Tony’s company, but it’s comforting to have another female friend—especially in a group as male-dominated as the Predators.

“Well, actually,” I begin, a flush of embarrassment creeping up my neck. “I could use some help.” I gesture toward my hair, which is still a tangled mess from this morning’s training.

Savina’s eyes light up with excitement. “Say no more,” she declares, already moving with purpose. “I’ve got this.”

Savina wasn’t kidding—shedefinitely knew what she was doing. In just the last couple of hours of getting ready, she somehow managed to make me feel genuinely excited about the masquerade. My heart beats in a frantic rhythm, but with Tony by my side, it doesn’t feel as overwhelming.

He looks nice tonight, though there’s a certain awkwardness in the way he fidgets with his suit. The sleek dark fabric, with its subtle silver details resembling a starry night sky, gives him a bit of elegance, even if he doesn’t seem entirely comfortable in it.

His mask is simple but thoughtful, a dark fabric edged with silver filigree that circles his eyes like constellations. It’s clear he put effort into the look, even if he’s unsure about pulling it off. As he nervously runs a hand through his hair, the mask slips a little, and he quickly pushes it back up, his fingers fumbling slightly.

As we make our way toward the grand hall of the academy, I take in the sight of the other attendees—anonymous Preys and Predators, all dressed in their finest. Shiny suits and sleek dresses are everywhere in the halls, and the masks add a layer of mystery.

Tonight, anyone can be whoever they want to be, and for once, I don’t feel like the odd one out.

Lost in thought, I stumble, but Tony’s quick reflexes save me from a complete faceplant. “Thank you,” I murmur, still surprised but grateful for his quick catch.

“No, thankyoufor being my date tonight,” Tony chirps, his smile infectious. It’s hard not to feel a little lighter around him, his genuine excitement lifting my mood in spite of everything.

Even though it’s just a friendly date, I’m grateful to have him by my side tonight.

“There’s no one else I’d rather be here with,” I tell him sincerely.

And that’s the truth. The masquerade istheevent of the year, with students from other academies joining, turning it into a massive ball that will no doubt be talked about for months. The anonymity creates a unique sense of camaraderie, where everyone sheds their designations, forgets their school loyalties, and simply enjoys the night.

So, I probably should too.

As if reading my thoughts, Tony grabs my hand and spins me with a playful grin, his usual awkwardness melting away for a moment. The crimson fabric of my dress flares and sways around me, billowing out in a cascade of red, briefly merging with the haunting memories of that night in the forest.

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