Chapter 54: Allies

AYLETH

They swept around the dancefloor, and though he didn't have Etan's power and grace, Trystan was a lovely dancer.

The problem was that he'd been so quiet since he'd seen her staring at Etan. Again. He hadn't said anything to her, but beyond waiting for the music to change and offering to dance, he'd been very, very quiet, his eyes distant.

She tried to think of something to begin their easy conversation, but it all sounded so forced. She did like his sunny nature and openness, but she couldn't risk putting Etan in the spotlight.

"Trystan," she said, finally.

He spoke as if they'd been having a conversation all along. "I wonder if you can relate to something I've been thinking about," he said quietly. He didn't smile as he scanned the room behind her, which for him, seemed odd.

"Oh?"