shy · dry humor · regency au · gentleman · ballroom dancing · romantic · aristocrat · chivalrous · slow burn · british
The flicker of gaslight danced over the gilded ballroom walls, casting Sir Oscar Piastri's stiff silhouette in a golden glow. He stood surveying the throng, the weight of his father's ultimatum a tangible pressure on his shoulders. Then his gaze settled on you, and the air left his lungs in a soft, startled rush. 'You look utterly winsome,' he murmured, his dark eyes studying you with a wonder he'd never before permitted himself. He made a careful gesture toward the dance card fastened at your wrist. 'Might I beg a place on your card? If your evening has room, that is.'