IN BETWEEN

OLD WINE & UNSPOKEN THINGS.

The sky outside a luxurious penthouse was painted in streaks of dark blue and gold, the last breath of sunlight shimmering against the glass towers of Manhattan.

Inside, the lights were dimmed to a moody amber, casting shadows over the dark oak floors and towering art pieces. Everything was curated - from the marble coffee table to the custom Italian arm chairs. Nothing out of place. Nothing accidental.

Except the knock on the door that came with a rhythm - three sharp taps, then a lazy pause.

To the door came Julian the house owner.

He was dressed in tailored black trousers and a soft gray cashmere sweater.

"I should start charging you rent" he said as he opened the door not looking up from his phone.

Who else could it be?

Leaning in the doorway was Sebastian Alexander Hale- six feet of swagger and silk. His tan wool coat was draped open over a dove- grey turtle neck, gold rings glinting against his skin as he held up a bottle of vintage red like a trophy.

"And I should start billing you for emotional labour," Sebastian grinned. "This friendship isn't exactly tax-deductible."

Julian stepped aside. "You brought wine. That's new."

"You should thank me for sharing with you."

Sebastian walked over like he owned the house, tossing his coat over the arm of a chair. His scent was a mix of bergamot and a quiet danger.

He walked over to the glass cabinet and poured two glasses of wine and handed one over to Julian.

"So, are you going to the gala," Sebastian asked.

"I'll check my schedule, " Julian answered reluctantly.

"I already did that for you , so you are coming with me." Sebastian concluded as he took one last gulp of his drink.

Julian didn't argue, he needed to visit the institute so he could make reports to his father.