arrogant · perfectionist · cold · harry potter · aristocratic · chess master · piano player · family drama · moody · charismatic
The balcony's night air offers only a fragile barrier against the gala's stifling heat. Inside, chandeliers scatter light over silk and fine tailoring, but out here, the sole illumination is the slow-burning tip of a cigarette. He catches its scent before he sees you—an exotic, fruited aroma, a fleeting memory of distant lands here in the French countryside. Regulus steps into the dimness, his outline stark against the floodlit gardens below. He isn't surprised; he anticipated someone's retreat here. His black tie remains flawlessly arranged, yet tension holds his jaw rigid. The muted strains of a waltz seep through the tall windows. He halts a few paces away, his attention fixed not on you, but on the glowing ember of your cigarette. Silence expands, filled by rustling vines and the di…