Chapter 77: The Luna Ball (4)

Goosebumps prickled on Ophelia's arms as the intensity of Nikolai's words sank in. She shivered involuntarily, her eyes betraying the confusion and doubt she felt. She raised an eyebrow, silently pleading for him to understand her inner turmoil. “Talk to me,” Nikolai murmured, his voice low and urgent. As if on cue, the music transitioned to a cadence that was both slow and powerful. The beat began with a soaring high before cascading into forceful, rhythmic pulses. Ophelia’s heart skipped a beat as the music enveloped them. The room was filled with hushed murmurs. Ophelia’s gaze drifted to the other couples on the dance floor. She noticed a synchronization among them, their movements flowing in a coordinated dance. Her breath caught in her throat as she realized that this wasn’t mere coincidence. “Focus on me, Ophelia,” Nikolai instructed, tightening his grip on her hand. Ophelia swallowed hard, her eyes momentarily wandering to the couples who were now moving in perfect unison.