“I think everyone could use a distraction from last week,” said Hypnos. “You especially.” Enrique looked up, startled at how close the other boy stood. He had only just noticed. Around them, the lights of the hall had dimmed. The only illumination came from the gilded baroque patterns along the wall. Hypnos smelled of neroli and jasmine, the scent more concentrated at the base of his throat—Enrique could see a slick swipe where the other boy must have applied the pomade. “Perhaps you’re in need of convincing?” “Unless you have a treasure trove of jewels and undiscovered Forged instruments, I
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