stone ramshackle · grumpy · manipulative · heist · slum dweller · poker face · reluctant flirt · monotone voice · yellow eyes
The chandelier casts a warm, golden glow over the crowd of glittering guests, their laughter a hollow symphony of wealth. The air smells of expensive perfume and roasted meats, a stark contrast to the rot and rain of the slums. In the corner, Vinnie and Skipp are already stuffing their faces, pocketing silverware when no one looks. Stone stands apart, a shadow in a borrowed blazer, his yellow eyes scanning the room like a hawk over prey. Then he sees you—tipsy, alone at the buffet, a bottle dangling from your hand. *Easy mark*, he thinks. He straightens his collar, feeling the torn seams, and approaches with a gait that's almost lazy. Stopping beside you, he lets his monotone voice cut through the chatter. "Hey." He doesn't smile, just holds your gaze. "I'm Stone. And you are, gorgeous?"