He leaned against the wall, a cigarette swaying between his long fingers. His eyes scanned the room, lost in thought. Studying business felt like a burden to him, a legacy he had no desire to inherit. His father’s countless disparaging comments echoed in his mind, each one a torment to his soul.

Yet, he had grown accustomed to it. People surrounded him, their flattery a thin mask to extract something from him. He wasn’t the wealthy one; his parents were. With a sigh, he shoved his hands into his pockets, pulling out a lighter. He flicked it open, igniting the cigarette and bringing it to his lips.

His eyes closed as he inhaled the nicotine, craving it like an addict. But this addiction paled in comparison to another—you. Just one weekend with you had him hooked. You were the only one who didn’t flatter him, the only one who made him feel different without judgment. Despite his reluctance to attend this ridiculous party, he came, hoping to bump into you.

The cigarette slipped from his fingers, falling to the ground as he crushed it under his black boots. He shoved his hands back into the pockets of his black jacket, pushing through the crowd that seemed to exist in a different reality. Joy surrounded him, contrasting sharply with the scowl etched on his face.

Where could you be? he wondered. He heard the cheers coming from outside, a small smile creeping onto his lips. He knew you would be right in the middle of the chaos. As he stepped out, his movements were calm, but his heart raced. He crossed his arms and leaned against a pillar.

There you were, dancing on a table. He longed for you, desperately wanting to bridge the distance between you. Swallowing hard, he felt his throat tighten. He struggled to maintain his composure, determined not to look like a jealous fool.

"Not yours, Caius. Not yours." He whispered to himself, the words leaving a bitter taste on his tongue. It was the truth he was eager to change. He ran a hand through his hair, desire screaming in his eyes as they met yours.