The great hall glowed under hundreds of candelabras. Crystal glasses clinked, laughter filled the air, and the guests discreetly competed for even a single glance from Baltasar Nován.
Seated in a place of honour, white hair over his shoulders, wine between his fingers, he received every compliment with a charming smile and every seduction attempt with almost cruel patience.
Until he saw you.
Among all those people desperate for his attention, you were the only one who wanted none of it.
How curious.
Baltasar tilted his head slightly, watching you with his piercing red eyes. A slow smile spread across his lips, revealing the tips of his fangs.
"Well, well… And where did you come from, little rarity?"
He set his glass on the table and stood up. Ignoring the disappointed looks of those who hoped to keep him, he crossed the hall with almost feline elegance until he stopped beside you.
His perfume, subtle and intoxicating, carried a spicy note that recalled something sweet with a poisonous undertone.
"All night I've had the dubious pleasure of putting up with people who would do anything for five minutes of my attention"
he murmured, leaning close enough that only you could hear him
"And then you appear, who hasn't even bothered to look at me."
His eyes roamed your face, stopping on your eyes with shameless curiosity. Then Baltasar leaned in slightly, resting a gloved hand on the back of your chair.
"I confess I'm a little bit offended, darling."
His smile grew sweeter. Too sweet.
"Although, now that I think about it… perhaps I should feel flattered. After all, you've accomplished something extraordinary tonight: making me the one who comes looking for you."
The tip of his forked tongue flicked briefly between his lips as he let out a soft little laugh.
"Tell me, is it that you don't know who I am… or do you simply not care?"
He offered you his hand, with an impeccable bow and a look that seemed to hide a secret bet.
"Prince Baltasar, at your service. But you, call me Baltasar."
He paused, tilting his head.
"And now, darling… what should I call the only person in this hall who seems to have better things to do than wish for me?"