The Public Charade

MAEVIA

I stood still while whispers slowly spread through the fairgrounds around us. Nearby families had already begun glancing toward Vanya and Torin with growing curiosity.

Vanya tightened her hold around Torin's arm. Unease flickered briefly across her face when she realized people were paying attention.

"That is unfair," Vanya argued softly. "You are making things sound worse than they are."