Chapter 10

“Wait,” Beyta said. “He has a surprise for you.” She beckoned to Reve waiting in a few steps away with Cillian’s chest. He brought it to Cillian and then retreated.

Cillian raised the lid and pulled out the glass heels. Itha’s hands flew to her mouth as she sucked in a breath.

“Oh!” she exclaimed. “They’re beautiful!” She took them from him and removed her slippers, kicking them aside, despite their fragility. Itha stepped into her new shoes.

Cillian glanced at Prince Pari, who was staring back at him intently. There seemed to be a hunger behind his brown eyes. Cillian turned his attention back to the princess, showing off her new shoes to the crowd. The people applauded and shouted platitudes, which the princess appeared to relish. She motioned to a young woman standing behind the chair she just vacated.

“Please take him to my chambers,” she demanded. “I want to give him a token of my appreciation.”