“Ave, are you okay?”

Worry lines formed on Kris’s forehead and I quickly gave her a reassuring smile. “I’m just a bit tired. Where’s Adrian?” I had texted him numerous times before I left my suite, but he hadn’t replied—calling his phone had only sent me to voice mail.

“I haven’t seen Adrian, perhaps he’s at the bar,” she said.

Domenico returned and handed Kris her drink and then one to me. Their eyes met and there was that lovey-dovey look all over their faces. I knew to excuse myself from their moment. “Okay. I’m going to wander a bit. You guys have fun.”

Kris’s hand caught my arm as I was turning to leave. “Ave, you don’t look okay. Do you want me to come with you?”

“No, I’m fine.” I placed my hand on top of hers and squeezed a little to add more reassurance. “I’m going to find Adrian.”

As I walked toward the bar, I downed the root beer Domenico had given me, letting the carbonated bubbles fizzle down my throat. I went up to the bar and ordered another one.

As I waited for my drink, I watched Kris and Domenico. I was glad they seemed to be enjoying the party. I nodded my thanks when the bartender came back with my order, and alone I watched the party as my muddled mind dulled a little with the noise.

Was I acting normal enough? Was I being watched by Court Guards or by a member of the Faction . . . or both?

I took the last big swig of my root beer and headed to the bathroom, which was at the end of a long, narrow hallway. And of course, the hallway was filled with couples making out, thinking somehow that this was more private than the dance floor. I squeezed my way through, trying my best to make my body as small as possible while ignoring various moans and groans. I couldn’t help but cringe. As usual, the ladies’ room had the longest line in history.

Twenty freaking minutes later, I walked out of the bathroom and pressed my way back through the crowded hallway. I was about to turn the corner when someone grabbed my wrists and pushed me up against the wall.

“Adrian—”

A pair of sensual lips pressed against mine with so much hunger. His hands wrapped around my waist, and he pulled my body toward his. As if in a trance, my lips responded to his kiss as my body responded to his touch. It was as if my brain had caught on fire and the warmth spread throughout my entire body. Just then, my senses came back to me and I put my hand on his chest, pushing him away with all my might. He stumbled back.