The Forbidden Fruit

𝕿𝖜𝖔

"Now don't be unpleasant to our guests because of your sour attitude Narcissa, most of the guest I have invited are those from high-ranking positions in the Wizarding World" rolling her eyes in the slightest Narcissa follow's Lucius down a grand staircase. "Oh please Lucius, I am not incompetent, I'm sure I'll be able to recognize such faces and act appropriately" chuckling Lucius guides Narcissa down the last few steps, holding onto her hand a bit longer than he should. "But on the contrary my dear, after a few drinks, everyone starts looking the same" he says with a grin. Narcissa raises an eyebrow, her dark eyes glinting with a mix of amusement and annoyance. "Well if that's the case, then perhaps I should have a few drinks myself. It might make the evening more bearable" she says with a sly smile, gently pulling her hand away from Lucius's lingering grasp. Lucius smirks at his wife's remark, appreciating her wit "Feel free, my dear. Just remember to keep up appearances" he teases but despite the playful nature of his words, he truly meant it.

Finally the guests arrive, Lucius greets them accordingly as they file into the Manor. As the well dressed guests flood in they take the short distance from the grand front entrance into the well decorated Ballroom with all the fixings. Elegant tapestries line the tall walls with individually lit candles scattered along the many tables creating an elegant and intimate glow within the large space. Despite the elaborate masks and fancy attire, Lucius spots a few familiar faces in which he greets them in a more friendly manner. As the elegant party begins, everyone has received a glass of champagne as they mingle with a live string quartet playing in the background. As he talks with a few familiar faces, Lucius looks across the room noticing Narcissa being particularly playful with a younger gentleman. Letting out a sigh he takes a long sip from his glass seeing a glimpse of how this night will be going forward.

As the hours pass, the Ball has begun to feel a lot more playful. People were dancing and chatting much louder than the start of the party. In fact, plenty of people have been indulging, including Lucius who had found himself sipping on his tenth glass tonight. Sitting at a lone table, Lucius's eyes have been fixated on one specific party-goer. A tall man dressed in dark turquoise robes that flow elegantly behind him. A faint pattern of waves can be seen on his coat making him glimmer in the candle lit lighting. The Dark contrasting suit pairs wonderfully with the dark seafoam green that the pattern is made of, creating a harmonious yet mystique nature to the person wearing it. The party-goer tied his whole ensemble together with a masquerade mask crafted from delicate dark turquoise lace, adorned with shimmering seafoam green gemstones along the edges. Along with an intricate design reminiscent of swirling waves and intricate filigree.

Deciding to introduce himself to this enigmatic stranger, Lucius stands up, nearly stumbling over his own two feet before sauntering over with a slight wobble. "May I bud in?" Lucius says with a slight slur in his words, a small smirk growing on his lips. Reaching out with his free hand, the other being occupied by a rather improperly full glass of champagne, Lucius introduces himself. "Lucius Malfoy.. but I'm certain that you already knew that" he teases shaking the hand of a very confused but slightly amused Severus Snape. "Are you that intoxicated Lucius to not even recognize a familiar face?" Severus says in his usual monotone voice, shaking Lucius's hands out of courtesy. Brushing back his unkempt hair Lucius stands straighter, taking a drink from his glass "I don't believe we've met before.. though it is quite bold of you to assume you know me, I find that rather attractive" Lucius says leaning in a bit close. Taking a step to create some distance between them Severus looks Lucius up and down with an amused smirk "I never would have thought someone like yourself, Lucius, would let himself be seen in such a way. Especially not during such an event.." Severus says, a hint of interest in his tone not knowing where is came from. 

Observing him for a moment Severus clears his throat "You know I was surprised you sent an invite my way Lucius.. you know me well enough to know I am not fond of such things.." Severus mentions, knowing part of him wanted to attend for a deeper reason. Smiling Lucius finishes off his glass, setting it on a nearby table as they continue to chat. "Well.. I invited everyone I deem important enough in my life and we've been close for quite a few years now wouldn't you say?" Lucius says finding his composure, finally realizing who is talking to. Nodding, Severus smiles, finding it flattering that he was deemed important by Lucius. Tucking his hands behind his back comfortably, Severus looks Lucius up and down "You are looking rather.. well- I would say dashing but, you're worn for wear at the moment" noticing his unkempt garb Lucius flushes slightly. "I guess I have become too comfortable in the last few hours, please, excuse me for a moment.." Lucius says awkwardly before leaving in a rush out one of the entrances to the Ballroom.

Finding himself in one of the smaller powder rooms in the Manor nearest the Ballroom, Lucius looks at himself in the mirror as he touches up his attire. "He came.. he actually came.." he says with a proud smirk as he adjusts his cravat. Letting out a short, nervous breath, Lucius gives himself a once over before saying some encouraging words "No need to be eager here Lucius.. just be yourself.." he says as he puts on his mask, leaving as he faintly hears the music changing pace knowing what is in store when he returns.

To Be Continued...