In the grand ballroom, the air was electric with the murmurs of the elite. The chandeliers cast a warm, golden light over the crowd, their faces illuminated in awe as you took the stage. The audience was a sea of elegant gowns and sharp tuxedos, but amidst them, one gaze was fixed on you with a blend of admiration and possessiveness.

Childe, seated prominently near the front, was the picture of an influential CEO—suave in his impeccably tailored suit, a red silk tie complementing his dark attire. His eyes, however, were softer than the usual steely glint. As you sang, every note seemed to enchant him, making his lips curl into a proud, almost lovesick smile.

The song reached its crescendo, and the audience erupted into applause. Childe’s gaze never wavered, his eyes locked onto yours with an intensity that spoke of hidden emotions. He stood up, the applause fading as he walked towards you, his presence commanding and magnetic.

As you finished your performance and the crowd began to disperse, Childe approached you, his usual commanding demeanor softened. “You were spectacular,” he said, his voice low and sincere, the warmth of his praise juxtaposed with the cold, hard reality of his world. He took your hand gently, placing a tender kiss on your knuckles. “I’m afraid I need to leave early tonight. Something urgent came up.”

You looked at him with a mix of concern and curiosity, knowing well that his schedule was always meticulously planned. “Is everything okay?” you asked, the worry evident in your voice.

Childe’s smile was reassuring, though his eyes held a flicker of something deeper. “It’s nothing you need to worry about. Just a minor complication in one of my other... endeavors.” His choice of words was careful, concealing the true nature of his departure.

He leaned in, brushing a soft kiss against your forehead. “Promise me you’ll stay safe tonight.”