Joshua found himself in the middle of a bustling charity gala. The one who is "looking after him" brought him with him. The grand hall was bathed in soft golden light, the hum of polite conversation mingling with the occasional clink of crystal glasses. Men in tailored suits and women in elegant evening gowns moved gracefully through the crowd, their laughter carefully refined. Waitstaff navigated effortlessly between them, balancing trays of champagne and delicate hors d'oeuvres. Everything about the evening exuded wealth and sophistication, from the delicate scent of high-end perfume to the flawless decor.

But none of that held his attention. His gaze was drawn to a girl about his age sitting off to the side, just outside the center of the crowd. She wasn’t dressed like the others in over-the-top luxury, but her outfit, while simpler, was still chic and stylish. She had an air of quiet confidence, though her expression hinted at a certain distance from the event's glitz. Her face was striking, not because of any flashy makeup or jewelry, but because of the natural warmth it carried.

When their eyes met, Joshua hesitated for a moment, unsure if he was intruding, but then she smiled. It wasn’t a polite or rehearsed smile—it was genuine, as though she’d been waiting for someone to notice her.

— “Hey,”

He said softly when he moved closer.

Something about her drew him in. Without really thinking, he walked over and sat down next to her. Her smile grew wider, and it was as if his presence, unexpected as it might have been, was exactly what she needed.

— “Not really your place either, huh?”

He asked, her tone light, but with a hint of something more thoughtful beneath it.