Finally, the girl ahead of me went up. This was it. I was next—no turning back. If my soul mate was eighteen or older, and they were also on the sacred grounds of the Court, I would be able to read their mind, and they would be able to read mine. Once I drank from that cup, I would be fully Awakened. My hands trembled and my heart pounded, telling me to run, but my stubborn head told me that I was not a coward—that I had made my decision and I should stick to it.

The girl in front of me drank from the cup and stepped aside. It was finally my turn. I looked over one shoulder to see Kris beaming at me. The cupbearer, a guy only a few years older than me, refilled the chalice and brought it forward, ready to hand it to me so I could take a sip. Bracing myself, I reached for the cup and brought it to my lips. I shut my eyes as I drank, letting the rich, sweet, fermented grapes mix with a slight bitterness as the liquid rolled over my tongue and down my throat. Almost as soon as I swallowed it, I started coughing.

The cupbearer looked at me with an odd expression on his face, as if it was the first time he’d witnessed someone choke. I wanted to tell him how sorry I was, but my throat felt weird. In the end, I could only give him a regretful nod, and walked to the line of those who had had their share, standing behind the girl who’d drunk right before me.

After everyone had finished drinking and the Golden Chalice was safely stashed away, the queen bid her farewell, wishing all the best for us, and ascended the stairs just as gracefully as she descended them earlier. The organizers informed us about the after-party. I wanted to go back to my room to change and continue reading my Agatha Christie book. I was dying to find out the resolution of And Then There Were None, and I didn’t want to be worried about tripping and breaking my neck while walking in this dress anymore.

Over the crowded space, my eyes found Kris. I knew how excited she was and that she wanted me to stay. Seeing the glint in her jade-green eyes and the smile forming on her beautiful heart-shaped face, I realized my wishes would have to wait.

Chapter Five