She opened her mouth to speak but stopped when I brought my finger up to my lips. The thunder of combat boots sounded outside the door, never once stopping as they continued down the hall. I gave Brandon a confused look, but it was Clara who spoke.

“They aren’t allowed to come into the dancers’ rooms…” She swallowed.

I could feel her slender throat move beneath my hand. The glitter on her cheeks sparkled every time she looked between Brandon and me