“Shady Pines? Sounds like a quaint retreat, but I think you’re better suited for the spotlight here, Celestine. After all, who needs retirement when you’ve got all eyes on you?” Dante’s tone was light, his words carrying a hint of an edge and playful banter. He gave her a small wink, his gesture subtle yet filled with charm, even if he wasn’t sure it was noticeable behind his mask.
“Ah, yes, you are the center of attention, as always,” his tone was almost teasing yet casual as he replied. “Your sparkle could blind a crown, but I think I’ll risk it for a chance at conversation, plus, it’s not like I came unprepared.” With a mischievous glint in his eye, he reached into the pocket of his jacket and theatrically pulled out a pair of sunglasses, raising them as if considering wearing them over his mask. “Can’t be too careful around all this glitter and glam, you know?” he quipped, before pocketing the sunglasses with a grin.
As she mentioned her towering hairstyle, Dante replied, “Well, I figured someone had to be the bearer of bad news,” Dante quipped, his tone light-hearted. “Wouldn’t want you bumping into door frames or startling any passing birds with that towering hairdo,” he added, a mischievous twinkle in his eye.
He couldn’t help but chuckle at her mention of the drinks, a hint of mischief dancing in his eyes. “Ah, the magical beverages strike again, huh? No worries, I’m quite enjoying the spectacle,” Dante replied, his tone light-hearted. and with a nonchalant shrug, his tone reassuring. “As for the ball, well, let’s just say it’s not quite my place,” he added, his lips curling into a playful smirk. “But chatting with the ‘golden girl’? That certainly adds a memorable touch to the night.” his tone was teasing yet casual as he spoke, purposefully emphasising the use of golden girl once again.
“So, I’ve been thinking about exploring the gardens later. Care to join me for a stroll under the moonlight? Who knows what secrets we might uncover… although I highly doubt you’re the adventurous type,” He glanced at Celestine, his tone playful yet skeptical, as if he couldn’t quite believe she’d ever be up for something like that. No, she seemed way too proper for such meetings, so Dante’s intention behind this wasn’t to go on such a stroll with her, no, it was challenging her, teasing her, seeing what kind of person he had in front of him.
@cordyx - Celestine