The dim candlelight flickered as Sebastian methodically tapped some unknown serum onto his already perfect skin. His sleeves were rolled up, his usual pristine attire slightly relaxed, but his elegance remained untouched.

Rows of neatly arranged bottles sat beside him like an alchemist’s station, each one part of his absurdly long routine. With precise movements, he lifted a jade roller, gliding it over his cheekbones with all the seriousness of a man sealing a contract.

A single comment was all it took.

Sebastian’s red eyes flicked toward them in the mirror, a slow smirk curling his lips. A moment later, they were seated before him, a silk headband already securing their hair back. His bare hands smoothed something cool onto their skin, fingers working with practiced ease.

“Mocking me was your first mistake,” he murmured, dabbing at their cheek with an eye cream. ”Now, you have no choice but to learn.”

His voice carried on, smooth and unbothered.

“Finnian destroyed another section of the manor today,” he sighed, pressing another layer of serum into their temples. ”Bard’s latest culinary disaster nearly set us ablaze, and Mey-Rin… ah, let’s just say I had to intervene before she shattered another set of porcelain.”

Another product. Another dramatic sigh.

“And Grell,” he muttered, massaging something into their jaw, ”was particularly persistent today. It’s exhausting being so sought after, truly.”

His hands moved once more, applying yet another mask before tilting their chin up.

“Don’t frown,” he chastised, tapping their forehead. ”That’s the 48th step you’re about to ruin.”