youngest.

           Human. That’s all the young boy smelled of. Good. Ruby pools blinked at the brunette and the Chain canted his head. “Are you lost?” He’s seen a lot of faces in his day but he remembers each and every one. He’s never seen this face before.

There was something about the other that didn’t seem quite right, but Benjamin couldn’t put his finger on it. So he dismissed it, as he normally did with those feelings, and nodded in response to the question. “Unfortunately,” he replied with a hint of bitterness in his voice. “Is it that obvious?”

Ⓦ

“Did you really think hiding your cheek bones was going to fool anyone?” “Do I…know you?” “Have we met before?” “Are you sure I don’t know you?” “Your eyes are absolutely captivating.” “I don’t think we’ve met yet.” “May I have this dance?” “You look positively enchanting this evening.” “I’d know those dazzling eyes anywhere.” “These skirts make it so hard to move.” “Some of these costumes are so extravagant. They must have cost a fortune.” “You look quite ravishing in that dress.” “You look quite handsome in that suit.” “Can I see your face?” “I don’t think you want to see my face.” “My God, you could fit an entire circus under her pannier. How’d she even fit through the door?” “Champagne?” “My feet are killing me.” “I never thought I’d see you in something so fancy.” “I feel like I’m rubbing elbows with the queen right now.” “Care to sneak away with me? I doubt we will be missed.” “Can you guess who I am under here?” “I’d compliment your beauty, but I can’t see it under there. You’ll have to accept my compliments to your mask instead, it’s quite lovely.” “I can’t hear you through that mask. Did you really have to choose one that covers your mouth?” “Do you know who I am?” “Do you know who she is?” “Do you know who he is?” “You’re very light on your feet.” “Ow! It’s like you have two left feet.” “I’m a terrible dancer.” “Who cares if you’re a good dancer? Have fun! No one will know it’s you anyway!” “No one’s asked me to dance all night…” “I feel like I’m in a dream!” “Can we please go home? This is torture.” “How did I ever let you talk me into coming here?” “I prefer watching from the sidelines to participating.” “You’ve spent the entire evening at the snack table.” “Can I cut in?” “I have to go.” “I’m not supposed to be here. If they catch me I’m in trouble!” “Please. What is your name? I want to see you again.”

       “ Ben…. What’s your oldest brother’s number? He’s pretty damn attractive and I’m desperate I need help/advice for dealing with some of the paperwork winding up on my desk… ”

“You want Leonerd’s number?” He stared at Lucas in slight disbelief. The way Lucas asked, Benjamin had to wonder if it was only paperwork that the older wanted help dealing with, or whether Lucas wanted to join whatever was done on the desk. He shuddered at the thought. “I refuse. For your safety. He’ll either bore you to death or make you feel so shitty about yourself you’ll regret asking in the first place.”