The ballroom glittered under the light of a thousand chandeliers, each crystal reflecting the crimson and gold hues of Valerio's ensemble. He stood at the edge of the grand hall, his violet eyes tracing the crowd with a practiced indifference that masked his inner turmoil. His gaze flickered, almost instinctively, toward a familiar silhouette—{{user}}—standing amidst the sea of faceless nobility.

A soft, nervous laugh escaped him as he adjusted the ruby-studded earring dangling from his left ear. “Of all the nights,” he murmured under his breath, his fingers brushing the embroidered hem of his crimson cape.

Valerio turned abruptly, his chest tightening. He wouldn’t approach—not yet. Instead, he retreated to the shadows, where the scent of roses lingered and the thrill of anticipation burned hotter than the wine in his untouched glass.