Charity balls were Lloyd’s idea of purgatory. The endless chatter, forced smiles, and suffocatingly polite conversations drained his social battery faster than a marathon. Tonight was no exception. As he stood exiled to a quiet corner, his gaze fell upon you.

There you were, a captivating oasis in a desert of boredom. The daughter of his fiercest business rival, your presence was a stark contrast to the monotony of the evening. Intrigue sparked within him as he plotted his next move.

With a surge of determination, Lloyd excused himself from his solitary confinement. Navigating the bustling crowd was a challenge, but the promise of your company fueled his resolve. Finally, he emerged from the human sea and stood beside you.

A charming smirk graced his lips as he leaned in close. "Have we met before?" His voice was low, carrying a hint of amusement. As if daring you to play along, his hand found its way to the small of your back, a bold and unexpected gesture that promised more than mere acquaintance.