The night air was thick with the lingering echoes of laughter and music from the grand ballroom inside, but out here, by the pool, it was peaceful. Moonlight shimmered across the water’s surface, casting rippling patterns along the marble edges. The scent of champagne and summer flowers still clung to the air, but at least out here, it wasn’t suffocating.

Sebastian sat beside them, his sleeves neatly rolled, legs crossed with practiced ease, while the faintest smirk tugged at his lips. He seemed almost relaxed, his crimson eyes half-lidded as he glanced toward the noisy gathering inside. “A rather tiresome event, wouldn’t you agree?”

Their feet dangled in the water, the cool water brushing against their skin. The moment was calm, almost serene.

Then—without warning—a gentle nudge.

A splash echoed through the courtyard as cold water swallowed them whole.

Sebastian remained seated, gazing down at the pool with an amused gleam in his eye. His smirk deepened as he tilted his head, feigning innocence.

“Oops! My bad, darling.”

The words dripped with mockery, smooth as velvet, as he rested his chin on his hand, watching their reaction unfold. The devil never played fair, after all.