What Byron saw as annoyance, Amelia was beginning to see as electricity. Amelia dragged her nails teasingly down Byron’s neck causing a spark of crimson in her eyes. “Just that sometimes, those that anger you the most, you want the most.”

Just as the song finished, Byron turned around, and looked from Alexis back to Katie, whose dance partner was kissing her hand in thanks for the dance.

“I doubt it. Alexis would never love again—I know that. Especially a human.”

“We’ll see.” Amelia smiled.

The next song started and it was a fast number. “Shall we sit? This tempo isn’t quite my thing,” Byron said.

“Even in the twenties?” Amelia joked.

“Even then,” Byron replied.

Sera and Katie appeared at their side, and started to pull Amelia away. Katie giggled, a little tipsy. “We’re here to take the Principessa to dance.”

“Yes,” Sera said, “we’ll take care of her.”

Amelia was almost giddy as they pulled her away. She wasn’t used to this type of family. Uncle Jaunty and Uncle Simon were the best stand-in parents ever, but she’d never had siblings, and that’s what Sera and Katie felt like. Not only did she have Byron, she had a whole new family now.

* * *

Victorija’s car parked at the back of The Sanctuary. She sat in the back seat with Lillian, who appeared extremely nervous.

“Victorija, you’re not going to try to take the Debrek Principessa from under their nose, are you? Remember what happened the last time you fought with them here.”

Victorija leaned into Lillian menacingly. “Do you think I’m a complete idiot? I’m not my father. Amelia will come to us. A little fail-safe I built in the last time I was in her company. I just need you to put a spell of protection around this car, when I have her.”

Lillian was silent, obviously considering her options. Victorija grasped her neck in a flash of speed and pushed her against the back of the car. “Are you quite clear on your role, Lillian?” Victorija drew a finger down her cheek. “I would hate for you to be of no use to me any more.”

“I’m clear. I’ll do what you want,” Lillian said, gasping.

As soon as she said that, Victorija loosened her grip and smiled. “Thank you, Mademoiselle Witch. I knew you would see it my way.”

Lillian caught her breath and they both sat back against the plush back seat. “So, what now?” Lillian asked.

Victorija dipped her hand into her jacket and pulled out her phone. “Wonderful machines these portable telephones, aren’t they?” Victorija grinned. “The mischief I could have gotten up to if I had one of these through the ages.”

* * *