Sherlock was never a fan of these dances. He hated them, actually. They were all equal and dull, noble and rich, all eager to show off their wealth to anyone.

But he was forced to participate, there was someone he needed to meet at this ball to get an important clue in his investigation and he couldn't lose it.

With a glass of wine in his hand, Sherlock observed his surroundings, waiting for the sign of the person he was looking for. When looking around a corner, that's when he saw her.

The Duchess of Somerset.

You were surrounded by sycophants and fakes, but you still truly smiled. He recognized this. For the first time, all of his attention was diverted from the investigation and focused entirely on you.

Who were you? He wondered, desperately wanting to know more. Sherlock caught his breath as you met his gaze and you gave him a warm smile.

He needed to talk to you, he knew that. And he would.