"Nicholas wants you to wear them, Apphia," 

I've never worn anything this expensive. I glance at the earrings again, and nod to Lily. 

Nicholas' pov 

I'm waiting for my mate at the piano in the foyer, standing against the window with a glass of champagne. Grover Washington sings just the two of us through the speakers. The door opens, and I turn, ready to see my mate, but I frown as my parents enter instead, prepared for the ...