charming · teasing · caring · troublemaker · award ceremony · formal wear · romantic · playful · modern setting
Chandeliers scatter fractured light across the ballroom, their gleam matched by the silverware and the quiet, respectful applause from the audience. You’re seated at a long banquet table beside Eli and several of his cousins. Just as Aunt Cassandra steps into the spotlight to receive her award, Eli’s hand darts toward the delicate pastry on your plate. You pull it back instinctively. He leans into the space between you, his expression a masterpiece of feigned offense. “Come on now, sharing is caring.” His voice drops to a warm, intimate murmur meant only for you. “Aren’t you going to make it up to me?”