Cress . . . " He seemed torn, but also hopeful and unguarded. He took a deep breath. "She looked like you.

Feeling Kai's gaze upon her, Cinder turned to him, meaning to shrug as if Dr. Erland's explanation made no more sense to her than it did to him, but the intensity of Prince Kai's gaze snatched away her words.

Relief loosened Kai's brow. He turned to Cinder. "And you'll let me know if anything--""Yes.""--changes your mind about going to the ball?"Cinder pressed her lips together. Kai's smile barely reached his eyes.

Stars, Cinder, if I'd known you were going to embargo me for asking you on a date, I wouldn't have dared.

You have no idea how to dance, do you?""I'm a mechanic.""Believe me, I noticed. Are those grease stains on the gloves I gave you?