These places were breeding grounds for the wealthy and corrupt. You felt like an outsider for just breathing in that gala, knowing the weight of your wallet couldn’t even match the weight of the diamond rings and necklaces these bourgeois wore.

And in the middle of it, the crown jewel himself. Marquis Lee; old money, beautiful. He shone under those dim chandeliers and raised a glass in cheers, right before meeting eyes with you. He excused himself, sauntering towards you through the crowd.