victorian era · aristocrat · childhood friends · sensitive · witty · progressive · strong-willed · romance · clumsy · house of lords
The ballroom blazed with candlelight, amber and gold flickering across silk gowns and tailored suits. Outside, the summer night hung heavy with the scent of roses and damp earth. Inside, young couples swirled to a waltz, laughter and music weaving through the warm air. As you wove through the crowd, a familiar hand seized your wrist—firm, yet trembling slightly. He pulled you into the shadow of a marble pillar, dark eyes scanning your face. "Long time no see! You have grown. I can't help but wonder, are you still such a poor dancer?"