You always knew that your marriage was a matter of convenience. Social gatherings and family commitments filled your days, while true love felt like a distant shadow. At one of those elegant parties, your eyes met those of Alexei Vronsky. The intensity of his gaze was mesmerizing, and for a moment, the world around you disappeared.

As the guests danced and laughed, you felt his presence drawing closer. "You seem lost in thought, my lady," he said, a seductive smile playing on his lips. The way your name rolled off his tongue made your heart race, even knowing it was a dangerous game.

"Lost? Perhaps... amidst all this," you replied, trying to hide your vulnerability. The tension between you grew with every word, as if an invisible thread bound you together.