[Meredith].
The applause slowly faded as the ceremony came to an end. Then Draven's hand found mine, his fingers wrapping around it firmly. And together, we left the Grand Hall.
The moment the doors closed behind us, the noise of the gathering softened into distant murmurs. Only then did I finally look up at him.
"You planned that," I said, narrowing my eyes slightly.
Draven glanced at me calmly. "I have no idea what you mean."
I almost laughed. "You didn't tell me my name would be announced."
"That was the point."
"You should have warned me."
"And ruin the surprise?" he asked lightly.
I shook my head, though a smile tugged at my lips. The truth was, I had been deeply touched by what he did, so I squeezed his hand gently as we continued walking down the quiet corridor.
"Well," I said after a moment, "the banquet does not start for another three hours."
Draven hummed thoughtfully. "So?"
