Music began to play in the grand hall.
The sound of wine glasses clinking and chattering voices echoed in the hall.
Esteemed guests dressed in their finest gowns and suits filled the hall. The host took the stage and began to speak.
The music stopped.
Host: Hello, everyone.
Everyone's attention fell on him.
Host: I can tell everyone is having a great time. Am I right, or am I right? Senator?
Senator: Hahaha, you are right.
The senator raised his glass in approval.
The crowd roared in laughter.
Host: I thought so, haha.
Anyways, it's wonderful that you all were able to honor the invitation handed to you.
As it's done every year, we are all gathered here to celebrate the Carnevale di Venezia. Even though this celebration takes place every year, you all never disappoint.
Just take a look at Mrs. Sanchez. I mean, DAMNN!
Crowd: Hahahahahaha.
Host: Ok, settle down. Before we begin, we have a special guest with us tonight. The main man, the eye-swayer, the ladies' man, your beloved and distinguished Eugene... Giordano!!!
Crowd: Ouuuu!
The crowd was wild with cheers.
The curtains backstage opened up, revealing a dashing man in a polished black tuxedo and a black mask that covered almost all of his face. Everything about him screamed elegance.
He walked majestically onto the stage with a straight expression and without a care in the world.
The crowd cheered even louder.
Lady 1 in the crowd: He's just so breathtaking.
Lady 2 in the crowd: I know, right? He's perfect.
Host: Here you go, sir.
The host handed over the microphone to Eugene and rushed offstage.
Eugene: Thank you.
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Rose: We are so late.
Tracy: No, we aren't. Don't think about it.
Put on your mask.
Let's see, mhmmhh... Perfect. Now let's go.
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Eugene searched through the crowd as if looking for something or someone.
Lady 2 in the crowd: Is he looking for someone?
Lady 1 in the crowd: What do you mean?
Lady 2 in the crowd: Look at him. He's definitely searching for someone.
Lady 1 in the crowd: But who? I never thought anyone could pique his interest.
Lady 2 in the crowd: Well, he is a man after all. I wonder who it is.
Just then, the door to the entrance opened.
Crowd: Gasps!!
Host: Now that's one heck of an entrance.
Mrs Sanchez: Honey, who are those two?
Mr. Sanchez: I have no idea, love.
Rose and Tracy stood still, with their feet glued to the floor, unable to move. All eyes were on them.
They looked like princesses in those stunning gowns.
Tracy wore a yellow one hand gown with intricate flowery designs on it. The dress fitted her perfectly. Her hair was tied in a bun showcasing her neck and she wore gold earrings that matched the dress. The icing on the cake was the golden mask which held everything together. She looked extravagant.
Rose on the other hand wore a red gown with yellow patterns and a golden shimmers. She was glowing. Her hair was tied up in the bridal style and she had a golden hairpin that held the hair together. Her mask was red exactly like her dress. She looked like a goddess.
No one could tell who they were because of their masks. In their eyes they looked too glamorous and distinguished to be messed with.
If only they knew.
Rose: Ermm, Tracy, are we at the right place?
Tracy: I believe we are.
Ok, Rose, we have to blend in. Remember, they can't see our faces because of the masks. We are here to have fun, ok? Follow my lead.
Tracy started walking into the crowd, exuding utmost confidence. Rose followed suit. But unbeknownst to them.
Eugene had his eyes locked on them, on Rose to be precise. He couldn't keep his eyes away from her.
Eugene:[I definitely made the right choice of color]
A smirk appeared on his face.
Before they could get to the middle of the crowd. Eugene left the stage.
Lady 1 in the crowd: Wait, where is he going?
The crowd shifted their gaze from the two ladies to that of the gentleman walking towards them.
Eugene now stood in front of Tracy and Rose. He alone recognised them. Afterall he handpicked those dresses himself.
Eugene: I'm glad you could make it.
Tracy: Wouldn't miss it for the world.
Rose: ...
Tracy, you know this man.
Tracy: Yep.
And Rose, I'm going to leave you two.
Rose: Huh?
Tracy: Don't worry, you are safe, ok?
I'll be just over there. If you need me, just ring me up, alright?
And you... I got my eyes on you.
Eugene: .....
Even though Tracy had her own reasons for keeping an eye on Rose, she had grown fond of her and actually started caring for her. She knew Eugene wouldn't harm Rose, but she still wouldn't let her guard down. Not even a bit.
But unbeknownst to her, Eugene felt the same way about her.
The crowd was confused and wondered what was happening. They couldn't hear anything that was being said and just stood there watching the trio.
The host, realizing the tension and confusion, suddenly got back on stage.
Host: Alright everyone, let the party begin. MUSIC!!
Eugene: Hi
Rose: Ermm Hi. Do I know you?
Eugene: Yes you do.
Rose: Really?
Eugene: Yes.
Rose: So? What's your name? And how do you know me?
Eugene: You'd find out soon enough but for now , May I have this dance?
Rose: Hmm Mischievous.
Eugene: 'Smirk' I'd take that.
Rose: 'Giggle' It'd be an honour to dance with you, your majesty.
Eugene: Your majesty?
Rose: I've read it in books. And besides, you look like royalty.
Eugene: Oh really? hahahaha
Well, you look like a princess.
Rose: Are you making fun of me?
Eugene: Don't you believe you look like a princess?
Rose: Well, no, I mean, yes, I mean, uh, forget it. You are just like him.
Eugene: Who?
Rose: Ermm, a friend of mine.
Eugene: Hmm I see.
Rose: ....
Tracy could see the two dancing from the bar. She got a drink and made herself comfortable as she looked at the crowd dancing.
Rose' eyes locked on hers. She raised her glass and smiled at Rose assuring her that she is around.
Rose: How do you know Tracy?
Eugene: She is working for me.
Rose: What?
You are her boss?
Eugene: Well, you could say that.
Rose...!
Rose: Mmmhm
Wait how do you know my name?
Ah lemme guess Tracy told you.
Eugene: I guess.
Tracy turned to get another glass. She couldn't believe her eyes when she returned her gaze back on them.
Tracy: Huh?
Mom: We shared a passionate kiss.