Work Text:
Every year, New York’s oldest families reunite for a night where rivalries are put aside. Not just any families, however, only the ones with … certain gifts. Because underneath their differences, they need to stay united. Regular humans cannot learn of their existence, so they all need to work together about the biggest challenges their communities face.
Not all the gifted families are invited, either. Only the oldest ones and a few select others with a lot of influence. They all take turns organising the ball, and this year the Barnes are hosting.
The ballroom is bright, with crystal chandeliers sending sparks of artificial light in every direction. The walls are shiny white, as are all the tablecloths. The only sources of colours are the finely decorated floor, the bouquets of flowers scattered over the entire place, and the stage on one end of the ballroom.
Well, that and the guests. Members of New York’s oldest families mingle, in formal wear and faces adorned with masks. Some are reuniting with family members they only see during these balls, there are groups of young people who hang with each other on a daily basis, others are trying to conclude deals with other families, some elders are talking under their breath - about the state the city is in, maybe, or already planning weddings and alliances between families…
Suddenly there is a presence near him. If not for his senses, Steve knows he wouldn’t have felt it. Curious, but not wanting to appear rude, he doesn’t turn around, only twirls his flute in his hand.
He doesn’t have to wait for long, though, because a few seconds after, the person behind him is close enough to make his hair stand up on end. Then, the voice that greets him sends a shiver down his spine.
“Good evening, Steven.”
Low timbre, sultry voice with a confidence completely justified. Steve briefly closes his eyes and breathes in deep, hoping the other won’t notice. He turns around and finds the man he had been seeking out in the sea of bodies earlier.
The brunet is dressed with a navy blue suit, opened just enough to reveal a ruby shirt that matches a finely crafted mask. He catches Steve’s gaze running over his body and smirks, eyes sparkling. Oh, but how Steve would love to watch these icy eyes turn to black, and feel that mouth on his neck…
Chasing the thoughts from his mind, Steve smiles in turn.
“Good evening, James.”