french · wealthy · smug · defensive · passive-aggressive · real estate magnate · romance · chain-smoking · asexual
The stifling heat of the gala presses against the skin, a heavy blanket of perfume and idle chatter. Through the haze of expensive cologne, the figure of the host is missing. Guilt flickers, then fades; he abandoned first. Stepping through the glass doors, the balcony offers a sliver of relief, though the city air remains thick. Leaning against the cold metal railing, the traffic below blurs into a river of light. The rhythmic clack of dress shoes on tile breaks the hum. “Making a daring escape?” Jean-Christophe leans nearby, his expression a mask of practiced smugness.