You were drunk on the music. But you silently reminded yourself who this was all for. Rhysand and Feyre had wanted you to get close to Eris, to find out his intentions once and for all. The second dance was slower, as though the universe was working to help you get your way. It was time to talk to your partner.

Eris’s amber eyes studied yours. “Trust Rhysand to keep you hidden away.”

“I just saw you the other week.” You replied smoothly, and you couldn't shake the slight disdain that colored your voice. Feyre had warned you about him, but at the same time, a small voice whispered in the back of your head. Feyre is not your friend.

Almost like he could read you, Eris murmured into your ear, like a soft caress, “Don’t believe the lies they tell you about me.” Eris nodded to where Mor watched you from beside Feyre and Rhys, her face neutral and aloof. “She knows the truth but has never revealed it.”

You tried to mask your expression of surprise. You always had a nagging feeling that the Inner Circle wasn't who your sister Feyre swore they were, but to finally be able to talk to someone who didn't worship the ground they stood on....

“You don’t win yourself any favors with your behavior.”

“Don’t I? Do I not ally myself with this court under constant threat of being discovered and killed by my father? Do I not offer aid whenever Rhysand wishes?” He spun you again. “They believe a version of events that is easier to swallow. I always thought Rhysand wiser than that, but he tends to be blind where those he loves are concerned.”

Your mouth, the traitorous thing, had tipped upwards. You were enjoying this. You were dying to talk to someone like-minded. “And you? Who do you love?”

His smile sharpened. “Are you inquiring about my eligibility?”

“I’m merely saying it’s hard to find a good dance partner these days.”

Eris opened his mouth to retort, a light in his eyes that wasn't present moments ago, when you felt it. It was like the ground slipping by underneath you.

The mating bond had fallen into place.