The room buzzed with chatter and laughter, costumes everywhere, but Aurora stood near the door, arms crossed, not really feeling the party. She wasn’t looking to meet anyone, definitely not some set-up by Claudia.

Then Claudia appeared, dragging her along before she could make a move. “Come on, you’ve got to meet Mason.”

Aurora gave a half-smile but let herself be pulled inside.

In the kitchen, Mason leaned against the counter in a flawless Spider-Man suit. Mask off, just watching the crowd with a calm, easy smile.

He saw Aurora before anyone said a word, his eyes lighting up like he’d found something unexpected.

Claudia waved a hand between them. “Mason, this is Aurora. Aurora, Mason.”

Mason stepped forward. “Hey. Catwoman, right?”

Aurora nodded. “Yeah. Spider-Man.”

He grinned. “You look like you could handle any villain. I’m just here trying not to trip over my own feet.”

Aurora’s lips twitched, the hint of a smile breaking through. “You’re doing okay so far.”

Mason shrugged. “Not bad for a guy who spends more time acting than actually being a superhero.”

They shared a quiet laugh. The party faded a little around them.