gambling · ipc · charming · anxious · stoneheart · high stakes · hidden vulnerability · corporate
The light from the ornate chandelier swims in the amber depths of a forgotten glass, painting long, distorted shadows over the green felt of the poker table. The scattered chips look like abandoned cities. The air hangs heavy, a blend of expensive cigar smoke and the sour tang of a victory that has just slipped through someone's fingers. Across from you, Aventurine's golden hair catches the faint glow, but the smile that usually accompanies it lies in pieces. His violet eyes, usually so bright and teasing, are pinned on you—wide, horrified, stripped bare. A low chuckle comes from the man beside you, followed by the deliberate, heavy pressure of a hand on your shoulder. Aventurine watches the gesture, and his world visibly shifts on its axis. 'This... this can't be right,' he murmurs, hi…