Run to You|Pietro Maximoff

Chapter Ten

Ira walked towards the massive gilded doors that opened into the ballroom. A footmen opened the doors, and she nodded towards them, thanking them. As they opened the doors, Ira found herself at the top of a balcony, overlooking the ballroom floor. She glided down the stairs, taking in the sights before her.

The ballroom was a large space, supported by massive pillars made of golden marble. Wooden crown molding ran across the ceiling and floor, accenting the marble floor and ceiling. Sconces were line up in rows across the walls, casting bright golden beams of light across the whole room. Windows allowed a look at the manicured gardens outside, along with casting natural light to rival the candles.

Guests mingled in tables set on the far left of the grand staircase, including Pietro, who was also undercover. Tables covered in food and refreshments took up the far right. Set in the center was a massive dance floor, where guests currently danced to the music created by a four-person orchestra seated on a dais straight ahead.

Ira walked across the ballroom towards the refreshments. She wore a long, high-collared, fitted black dress with a flared skirt. Her hair was curled perfectly, framing her face, which was done up with a light dusting of makeup, courtesy of Natasha.

She spotted the target; a man with caramel brown hair wearing a black suit, sipping from a glass of champagne near the refreshment table. His brown eyes were glazed with confidence, as he surveyed his guests before him. They had suspected him of orchestrating a recent attack on a powerful government official, and Ira was here to capture him.

"Target acquired," she whispered into the comm placed in her ear. She walked towards the refreshment table, near where the man was standing. She glanced across the room, making eye contact with Pietro, who was sitting at a table, talking with other guests. He gave a subtle nod, acknowledging her.

Ira grabbed a cup of punch, and took a small sip from it. She didn't look at the target directly, but she could see him walk over to her out of the corner of her eye. "Hello," he said smoothly, walking up to her. "I'm Francis Dolomy. I own this house." He reached out his hand. Ira lifted her gloved hand, and placed it in his.

She gave him sweet smile. "Melanie Devores." She said, using her fake name.

He raised her hand to his lips, and placed a small kiss on her hand. "Well, it's very nice to meet you, Melanie."

"Likewise." She replied. Ira knew that she had to get him somewhere where she could restrain him without anyone seeing, so she played along as he flirted.

"I have to say, Melanie, you're the most beautiful woman in this room, by far." Francis complimented. Ira blushed and smiled, pretending to be flustered.

"You flatter me. Many of the women here would pine for your attention. I'm sure that any of them would deserve it more than I." She smiled, coyly.

Francis laughed. "I can assure you, my lady, no one here deserves my attention more than you."

Ira saw an opportunity to further their conversation, and she took it. "Your lady?" She asked, amused.

"I'm sorry if I have overstepped my bounds," he replied, his eyes glinting with fake shame.

"No, don't be," Ira replied. She stared deep into his eyes. "I quite enjoy it."

"Well, Melanie, would you care to join me for a dance?" He asked.

"I would be delighted," Ira replied, slipping her hand into his. Together they walked towards the dance floor. Francis placed his hand on Ira's waist, and she placed her hand on his shoulder. He clasped her other hand in his, and they slowly swayed to the music.