The bar glows with warm light as the three women gather, flutes of champagne clinking between them. Behind them, the gala continues to whirl with music, clinking glasses, and quiet laughter.
Elsuana sips carefully, eyes darting around like she's trying to spot gossip. "Vaela, I just want to say… you're terrifying. Like, in a gorgeous, world-devouring kind of way."
Lilith hums and leans against the bar, swirling her drink. "I agree. But also, we need to keep your gorgeous, world-devouring rear in check." She casts a glance across the room toward a shadowy corner. "Virgil's watching you… and not like an admirer."
Vaela raises an eyebrow, lips curving into a slow, sly smile. "Oh, I know. I can practically feel his fangs on my neck," she whispers, finishing her drink in one luxurious sip. "But I'm not running."
