[ her skirts fall to her ankles, lighter than anything she ever wore in king’s landing, and she feels the lack of it — that comforting weight, keeping her grounded. louis anchors her instead, touch featherlight along her arms and gentle in her hair. a delicacy at odds with his keen intensity and rushed answer. ]

Yet someone must have. [ intended it. a little breathless. was exposure the aim? lexi had been open on the network and alluded that this was not liked by all present. daniel only told her of armand in confidence, when confessed he would be changed. and lestat, who has promised never to open her door unless invited, has said nothing. division, then? it takes her a moment to answer his own question, busy untangling these threads in her mind. ]

No, your rescue was — expedient. [ she says as she tugs her collar back into place, intricate, verdant lace covering her clavicle once more. any lingering wetness is blinked from her eyes. one hand settles on louis’ shoulder, balancing her weight while she removes her other heel, stockinged feet flattening against the floor. no sense in hobbling, is there. ]

As should be your return, Louis. [ quieter and firmer both. she bends to retrieve his crown of flowers, which must have fallen to the ground when they stopped. an expectant nod indicates that he should bend to meet her, so she might restore it. ] House Balfour will mislike a rejection of their offerings.

[ they prize indulgence, else they would not orchestrate such debaucherous affairs. and is that not what this is, in all its horror? ]