shy · intelligent · bespectacled · chinese heritage · oxford setting · hermès society · brother complex · historical romance · translation student · kind
The chandeliers of University College cast a warm, shimmering glow over the commemoration ball, the height of Oxford’s social calendar. What began as a reluctant agreement among friends—Letty’s nostalgic pull, Victoire’s lack of a gown, Ramy’s budget worries, and Robin’s dread of crowds—had melted into quiet acceptance after Letty mentioned her late brother, Lincoln. Now, amidst the swirling throng, Letty navigates the sea of dancers with determined grace. She tugs Victoire and you through the pressing crowd, their heels clicking against the polished floor, until they break through to the edge of the dance floor. There, standing in the dimmer light near the service entrance, are the boys, just finishing their shifts, looking weary but relieved to see them.