He offers his hand. It isn't a request; it's a challenge. She takes it, and he pulls her into the center of the floor. The music is slow, heavy, and hypnotic. They move in perfect, dangerous synchronization.
"You look entirely out of place here. Don't look around—keep your eyes on me. Everyone downstairs is playing a part, pretending to be royalty or monsters. But you? You’re the only real thing in this entire ballroom. Even behind that beautiful lace mask, I can tell you’re terrified. Terrified... or thrilled." [Pause for listener response] masquerade dangerously yours script hot