The Ascension Of Dorian Blackthorn

er close association with Edwin Whitcombe had spread through the higher circles of society in Silverhaven with the help of the gossipy news websites and word

of the glass and steel of the Emberwood estate with its polished floors and glass walls. Lyla sat across from him, similarly using her phone as though he was the most boring person on the planet, and she couldn't

e air of a man who expected no disagreement from anyone. His tuxedo was immaculate, and the cut of his clot

on." This marriage was not a recommendation-it was an order. You

be described as the most bored look in the world. 'Father, y

ach other's business. It's about perception. The Whitcombe gala tonight is your oppor

to flaunt around with him?" She glanced at Dorian with

ou will carry out this task without any compla

r to the conversation between the two women, dec

orian with a glare that could have sliced through steel

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ufflinks on his black formal dress. The body of the limousine was shining under th

her shoes hitting the tarmac could be heard as she walked towards them, gracefully. "Please don't make me feel uncomfortable today," she said

inging as she typed away on it. Dorian looked at the darkened city through the darkened

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he city skyline. Inside, the atmosphere was filled with the smell of expensive perfumes and champagne. People strol

notorious pair arrive in the room. Lyla, the drama queen that she is, linked her arm in Dorian's and posed for the camera

oy." Dorian stood up, and although he felt like cursing at the Lyla, he tried to look as indiffer

ything she did. When a waiter came round with a tray of champagne She

ard by people at the neighbouring tables. What a

he expressions of humorous condescension. Dorian clenched his fists a

w to embarrass him further. She compared him with Edwin, w

s for a wife to be married to a man with half the charm. Those words hurt, but

d dancing, Lyla snapped her fingers at hi

epped onto the dance floor and started dancing extremely awkwardly. Sud

could only open his mouth to say something when she slapped him on the face. The room w

a result more from embarrassment than from the burn from the slap. Hushed murmurs spread

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r. The whole city was sprawling in front of him; lights were blinking, laughing at his s

ather on the screen. For a few seconds he paused before responding. "Dorian,

rong?" he

aven. Sometimes people disappear-those who dare to cross Emberwoods o

ned. "What d

t warnings. They're a call to action. This is what someone wa

th?" Doria

Emberwoods. They do not want you to know there is so

. Dorian pulled the phone away from his ear, looking at the screen, and then the phone fell from his hand when the