Nova looks up at me, those gold-flecked eyes wide and questioning. Her cheeks are flushed, wisps of dark hair escaping her elegant updo. There's straw caught in the hem of her dress, and a smear of something on her shoulder that will probably ruin the fabric forever.
She's never been more beautiful.
When I pull her to her feet, she comes willingly. Her body trembles against mine---from the chill or from emotion, I'm not sure. Don't care. I just need to feel her, taste her, remind myself that this is real.
I cup her face in my hands. "My father sees weakness where I see strength. He thinks love makes you vulnerable. Makes you breakable." I press my forehead to hers. "But watching you tonight, krasavitsa... I finally understand what true power looks like."
Nova's fingers curl into my shi
