AT THE SAME TIME
THIRD PERSON POINT OF VIEW:
The couples were separated swiftly, ushered into different wings of the castle by well-meaning servants who barely allowed them a word of protest. It was all done under the guise of 'preparations' for the next stage, but the lingering looks shared between partners were enough to communicate the rising tension.
Isabella's fingers slipped from Michael's grasp as two servants politely but firmly guided her down a candlelit hallway, her eyes wide with confusion. Michael turned back, his jaw clenched, but a hand on his shoulder stopped him. He spun to find Gregor there, the old man's expression solemn.
"Not to worry, lad." Gregor said with a nod. "This is part of it. The System likes its theatrics."
Michael swallowed hard, his fists flexing at his sides.
"Yeah, but why separate us?"Michael asked.
Gregor's eyes twinkled with a mixture of humor and something darker.
