Fashioned For Sin

Chapter 28

The day passed in a blur of preparations and final touches for the masquerade ball.

By noon, my phone buzzed, a call from Daniel. He asked for my address, and within the hour, he showed up at the door.

As soon as Blair saw him, I could see her tense up, a clear discomfort settling over her. Daniel had that effect on people—his presence seemed to draw out a certain unease.

I noticed her body stiffen slightly, her smile fading. I read it all over her face, the subtle shift in her stance. I didn't blame her; there was something about Daniel that made you want to keep your guard up.

I pulled him aside, my voice low but firm. "Remember what I said, Daniel," I warned, handing him a spare key. "You fuck something up, you’re out. No second chances." 

Daniel just grinned, that same crooked smile he always wore, as if life were some game and he was always winning. "Got it, boss," he said, pocketing the key with a casual shrug. 

But Blair and I had more pressing matters tonight. The masquerade ball was set to begin at nine, and we had invited all the right people—key players in business, influential figures, and Blair’s friends, of course. It was an open event, but we made sure to send special invitations to those who mattered, even those outside New York. The venue was prepared, a grand hall filled with mystery and elegance, perfect for the masquerade theme.

I got dressed in my black velvet tuxedo, the material rich and dark, paired with a black and gold mask intricately designed with swirls and flourishes. The mask was both commanding and elegant, with just enough embellishment to stand out without overshadowing my suit. Blair had opted to get ready with Karissa, so I drove to the venue alone, my thoughts wandering to how the night would unfold.

Blair texted me when she arrived. I stood outside the venue, waiting, my eyes scanning the crowd. And then I saw her.

Blair stepped out of the car, and for a moment, time seemed to stop.

She wore a dress unlike any I’d ever seen before—sleek, black, and shimmering with countless tiny beads that caught the light with every step she took.

The top of the dress was draped in a soft, sheer fabric that fell effortlessly around her shoulders, giving her an ethereal, almost otherworldly look.

The bodice hugged her figure perfectly, and the skirt flared out slightly, adorned with black feathers that swayed gently with her movements.

Her mask, a perfect complement to her dress, was a masterpiece of gold and silver filigree, with delicate curves and subtle horns that added a touch of intrigue and allure. She looked like a queen—no, a goddess.

I felt my breath hitch, and when she drew closer, I couldn’t resist. “You’re going to be the death of me, Blair,” I said, my voice a low rumble, enough for her to hear. 

Blair’s lips curled into a teasing smile. “Oh, is that so?” 

Karissa, standing beside her, rolled her eyes playfully. “Alright, Romeo, keep it in your pants until after the ball,” she quipped, a grin spreading across her face as we walked into the venue together. 

The hall was already bustling with guests, a sea of masks and elaborate gowns. The chandeliers overhead cast a warm, golden glow, and the sound of a string quartet filled the air, adding to the ambience.

I noticed Blair quickly becoming a point of interest, catching the eyes of many, and she was soon surrounded by admirers and potential business partners.

High-profile fashion magazines approached her, eager to get her into their pages.

I watched her handle each conversation with grace, her smile never faltering, and I couldn’t help but feel a swell of pride. She was in her element. 

After an hour or so, I made my way to the small stage set up at the front of the room. The crowd began to quiet down as I approached the microphone. I cleared my throat, feeling the weight of their gazes. 

“Ladies and gentlemen,” I began, my voice carrying over the quiet room, “thank you all for coming tonight. This ball is not just a celebration but a chance to make a real difference. Tonight, we are here to raise funds for several charities that do vital work in our great city of New York. These organizations work tirelessly to provide for those in need, and tonight, we can help them continue their incredible work.” 

I paused, scanning the room, gauging their reactions. “But of course,” I continued, a hint of a smile tugging at my lips, “what’s a masquerade ball without a bit of mystery and fun? So, tonight, we have a small game for you. Hidden throughout the venue are several golden masks, each one corresponding to a special prize—dinner at the finest restaurant in New York, a weekend getaway to a private estate in the Hamptons, and even a personal styling session with one of the top designers in the city.” 

There were murmurs of excitement from the crowd, a few people glancing around as if trying to spot the masks already. 

“And all proceeds from the entry fee for this game will go directly to the charities we’re supporting tonight,” I added. “So let’s have a good time, raise some money, and make a difference.” 

The room broke into applause, and I stepped down from the stage, the energy in the room buzzing with excitement. The game seemed to be a hit; people were already scouring the hall, looking for the hidden masks.

I caught a sight of Blair, our eyes locking, her body turns gently as she makes her way to a quieter place, I follow her, the crowd no longer in sight.

She's been driving me crazy all damn night. I watched her closely, and she knew I was watching, she looked at me as she flirted with some interviewers, giving them the same eyes she gives me when she sucked my fucking dick.

She is playing with fire. Pushing my buttons.

She drank earlier with Kari, maybe a bit too many drinks. When I reached her I could see that the alcohol boosted her confidence.

She greeted with a sultury smile, her eyes sparkling with a mixture of mischief and desire, her pupils dilated from the alcohol. "Leonardo." She purred, her voice seductive.

"You've been pushing my buttons all night Blair." I say, my fingers tracing her jawline, I notice her swallow.

Blair's lips curled into a teasing smirk, "you know I love to tease you." Her soft hands grip on my velvet tie, tugging at it, making me clench my jaw.

I could feel the heat between us as I drew her closer. The dim lighting casting shadows that danced across her face. "Careful, Blair," I said, my breath brushing against her ear. "You're playing a dangerous game."

Her breath quickens, "I've gotten used to danger Leonardo, I thrive for it." Her hand slides up my chest, "it's been a long time since I've seen how dangerous you can get."

"I want to play with you, baby." She whispers into my ear.

God fucking help her.

Because my dick hurts from how hard it is.

"First of all my beautiful baby," I continue to say as my hand grips her face firmly and I kiss her forehead, "Are you sure?" I say, searching her eyes for an answer, "you've been through a lot, babydoll, I don't want to do anything if you're not ready."

"I love how you think of me, for consent, but yes, I wouldn't allow this if I didn't want it." She replies, her lips curling into a small cheeky smile.

"Okay then, drop down like a good girl, and I'll fuck you like a bad one." I said, before my hand gripped her throat, smashing my lips onto hers.

I could feel her pulse quickening beneath my hand. Blairs laughter mingled with soft gasps as she responded to my touch. Her body arching into me with anticipation.

Just when things were starting to finally heat up between me and Blair, after weeks and weeks of being patient. The sound of footsteps broke the spell.
Karissa comes in. "So sorry to ruin your mood, but Leonardo, there's a man asking for you."

The interruption was a jolt, pulling us back to reality, but our bodies still craved one another. I turned to look at Blair, her expression a mix of disappointment and lingering desire.

"We have plenty of time after the ball." I said, a bit disappointed myself. "Come on."