You adjust the mask on your face, looking through the crowds of people for your friend who took you to this masquerade ball.

You knew every face, celebrities and politicians and famous people.

You feel a hand grab onto your forearm, ease settling into your veins as you hope for your friend, but instead you face the president’s son, Derek Danforth. “I like your mask. Really took the theme to heart, huh? You’ve been looking for someone for the.. past thirty minutes. Can I help you?”