The moon hung at its very peak by the time Kira slipped out of the hall, spilling pale silver light across the palace grounds.
She stopped just past the doors and scanned the open space. Guests loitered here and there in little clusters, drinks in hand, laughter drifting on the night air. The flower hedges stood dark and neat along the paths. Garlands swayed gently in the breeze.
But no Brian.
She moved further out, her eyes sweeping over every shadow, every gap between the tall hedges. She walked a short way down the garden path,
Where did that slimy snake disappear to? she thought, frustration bubbling up. He practically dared me to follow him, and now he's playing hide and seek? Typical.
She turned to head back toward the hall.
And there he was.
Brian stood directly behind her, hands tucked casually in his pockets. Kira stopped short, her heart lurching.
"Looking for me?" he asked, that smirk firmly in place.
