326 The Gathering (3)

Darcy had been yearning to attend this gathering. Not out of a fondness for social events, but due to the torturous solitude at the castle, particularly the absence of Ephraim. The depth of her desire to see him was almost alarming. How she had missed him. As she made her entrance, her eyes instantly sought him out in the crowd.

Soon enough, her gaze locked with his smoky amber eyes. A wave of emotion swept over her at his sight. Had he always been this breathtaking, or had her longing for him accentuated his appeal? His gaze mirrored hers, holding her with an intensity that remained unbroken even as the dancers occasionally obscured her from view.

Ares approached to welcome them, pulling her attention momentarily away from Ephraim. Several guests registered the presence of the king and his entourage, their eyes widening with surprise and curiosity as Ares made the introductions.