Page 140 of Sadistic

Mikhail goes first, keeping it short and professional.

Then Dalla, who manages to be both threatening and touching.

"My sister," she says, raising her glass, "is the strongest person I know. She's making a choice today that I don't fully understand, but I trust her. And Doran," she looks directly at me, "you'd better be worth it."

"I'll try," I promise.

My father's toast is elegant, talking about family and legacy without mentioning the blood that binds us.

Runes is more direct. "Many years ago, I made a promise," he says, voice carrying across the room. "Today, that promise is fulfilled. My daughter has honored our agreement." He pauses."Doran, she's your responsibility now. Don't make me regret this."

The threat is politely worded but clear.

"To the bride and groom," he finishes, and everyone drinks.

Dinner is served—five courses of expensive food that I barely taste.

Revna picks at her plate, probably still processing everything. "Dance with me," I say when the band starts.

"Already?"

"Always."

Our first dance is to something classical, not the traditional choices.

She follows my lead, surprisingly graceful given the dress.

"Where did you learn to dance?" she asks.

"Mother insisted. Said a man who couldn't dance had no business in society."

"She was right."

"She usually is."

We turn, and I catch sight of someone near the terrace doors.

Someone who shouldn't be here—my little brother, Olyvar.

"What's wrong?" Revna feels my tension.

"Nothing. Just thought I saw..." I scan again, but Oly is gone. "Nothing."

The song ends, and others join us on the dance floor.

I dance with my mother, she with her father.

The reception continues—speeches, laughter, the careful balance of two violent families pretending at civility.

During a break, I find Revna on the terrace, needing air.

"Overwhelmed?" I ask.

"Processing." She looks out at the gardens. "This morning I was single. Now I'm a Volkolv."

I mean, she wasn’t single—she was my fiancee, but whatever. I’m picking and choosing my battles with her now.

"Regrets?"