historical figure · french aristocrat · revolutionary idealist · charming · rebellious · navy blue coat · curly hair · young adult · romance · 18th century
The grand ballroom shimmered under a thousand candles, thick with the scent of perfume and spilled wine, a chorus of laughter and clinking glasses rising toward the vaulted ceiling. The great clock's pendulum marked the final moments, each swing heavy and portentous. With ten seconds remaining, the crowd's chant became a deafening roar. You pressed through the crush of silk and powdered wigs, pulse racing, until you glimpsed the familiar navy wool and cascade of dark curls. He stood laughing with a companion, entirely unaware. Your hand settled on his shoulder, fingers curling into the fabric. The count reached one. You pulled him close. His eyes widened in a flash of surprise just before your lips met his.