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T he moment she steps through the doors, I see her. Even in a room full of people, she stands out. The red dress, the silver mask—it’s like she’s begging to be noticed, yet completely unaware of just how many eyes are on her. But mine are the ones that matter. I clock her instantly, my heart beating just a bit faster, but I don’t move. Not yet.

I hang back, letting her take in the room, letting her feel the weight of the night. She doesn’t know where I am, doesn’t know who I am, and that’s exactly how I want it. There’s a thrill in watching her, in knowing that she’s here for us, but has no idea who’s pulling the strings.

She hesitates for a moment, her eyes scanning the room, before she makes her way toward the bar. I smirk as I see Raven already in position, casually leaning against the counter like he owns the place. He catches her eye as she approaches, and I can see his smile under his raven mask, charming and inviting, even from where I’m standing.

I move a little closer, hovering just within earshot, but staying in the shadows, out of sight. I want to hear their exchange, to see how she reacts when Raven turns on that smooth charm of his.

As she reaches the bar, Raven greets her with a knowing smile. “Red, right?” he asks, his voice low and warm, the kind of voice that puts people at ease. She nods, maybe a little too quickly, and I can tell she’s still trying to get her bearings.

“What can I get you?” he asks, already reaching for a glass.

“Something strong,” she replies, her voice steady but with a hint of the nerves she’s trying to hide.

Raven chuckles softly, shaking his head. “Only one drink,” he says, sliding the glass toward her. “Just enough to calm your nerves.”

I watch as she takes the glass, her hand trembling slightly as she lifts it to her lips. Raven’s eyes never leave her, and I can see the subtle way he’s reading her, gauging her reaction, her comfort level. He’s good at this—too good sometimes—but that’s why he’s here.

She takes a sip, and I can see the tension in her shoulders ease just a fraction. But she’s still on edge, still trying to figure out what’s going on, what’s going to happen next. That’s exactly where I want her—off balance, uncertain, but still intrigued.

I stay where I am, watching, waiting. The night is still young, and there’s no rush. For now, I’m content to let Raven play his part, to let her settle into the atmosphere. But I’m always watching, always ready. She doesn’t know it yet, but this night belongs to me. To us.

I take a step back, blending further into the crowd, my eyes never leaving her. There’s no need to rush—she’s here, she’s ours, and the night is just beginning.