Disappointment

Eucali noticed the uncomfortable gaze almost immediately. She looked up in confusion and met Trion's burning stare.

Trion had already put on a smile.

Suddenly, Chloe, who had been curled up in a corner, sprang to her feet. Forgetting herself, she dashed through the hall, colliding with several people in succession before quickly disappearing through the doorway. The guests throughout the hall were baffled, and Trion sensed that something was wrong as well. He hurriedly rose and looked at the girls who had been surrounding Chloe. "What happened?"

"Kovishik is here," Xina said flatly. "He's outside right now."

The people around the long table wore varying expressions. Old Irene looked at Trion with an amused gaze.

"This is outrageous." Trion frowned. Seeing several people follow after them to watch the excitement, he lowered his voice and looked at Fatima. "I'm going out. Keep an eye on things here."

Trion strode after them. Behind him, Fatima raised her wineglass and silver spoon, lightly tapping them together.

"Everyone," Fatima said, rising to her feet, "let's play a game."

As the crowd gathered around Fatima, Hesta quietly slipped away.

Trion chased them to the garden, slightly out of breath. The rain-soaked lawn was drenched, wetting the tops of his shoes. He saw Chloe repeatedly trying to grab Kovishik's arms, only for Kovishik to brush her off or shake her loose every time.

"Chloe!" Trion's anger flared at once. "What are you doing?!"

Her father's roar made Chloe shudder.

"Go back," she heard Kovishik say softly. "I came to see your father today. I've already said what needed to be said..."

"I don't believe you. I don't believe that's how you really feel, Cody—"

"But I never intended to become engaged to you," Kovishik said again. "If I ever did anything in the