Don't think of the danger.

“Siona,” he whispered, smiling, “That’s a very lovely name. I like it.”

A small sigh escaped her lips at the momentary accepting of the fake name, but she relaxed too soon. Several instruments were added to the soothing sound of the music, transforming the pattern of dancers around her and Larkin. There was no choice but to conform, and she suddenly found herself spinning quite fast, the Shrike the only thing that wasn’t a blur to her. He laughed suddenly, and she was dropped into a dip.

“I’m sure your real name is even lovelier.” He was also sure that she didn’t come alone, but very unclear on why she was keeping that fact from him. Did he have an enemy out there somewhere?

Lifting her back up, Larkin’s smile became a cruel and frightening grin. And as if she might try to run from him, he held her tight against his body, dancing her through the crowd of people. He shook his head at her as she opened her mouth to say something, lips pursing as he said, “Shh. Don’t speak unless you’re going to tell the truth.”