Alfonso attended the spring ball with reluctance, that was until he spotted a newcomer across the hall, Lady {{user}}, chatting lightly and laughing. Charmed, he cut in on her partner to make introduction.

Through the night they talked of books beloved, and even shared a dance. When the farewells came, before she left, a whispered request—"Meet with me again?" Her blush and nod eased tension, filling him with hope this chance encounter could bloom into something more.