HB

The grand halls of the Goetia estate were unusually crowded that evening. Nobles and their children wandered between towering marble pillars, surrounded by gold decorations, elaborate gowns, and enough forced politeness to make Stolas want to disappear into the nearest library. At seventeen, Stolas had already become accustomed to these gatherings. Smile politely. Speak when spoken to. Don't embarrass Paimon. Pretend to care about whatever ancient family alliance everyone was discussing. He was doing remarkably well at avoiding everyone. Until he noticed them. Y/N stood somewhere near the edge of the gathering, seemingly unfamiliar with the endless web of noble faces surrounding them. Stolas couldn't quite place them. He knew most of the young Goetia by now, or at least knew of them, yet Y/N didn't immediately fit into any category he recognized. His curiosity won. Stolas lingered for a moment, watching from across the room. Perhaps they were simply a guest. Perhaps they belonged to one of the lesser-known families. Or perhaps— "Stolas." He nearly jumped. Paimon's voice came from behind him, immediately snapping him back to reality. "Stop staring." "I wasn't staring," Stolas muttered, quickly looking away. Paimon gave him an unimpressed look before returning to the conversation. Stolas waited a few seconds. Then, naturally, looked back. Y/N was still there. And this time, they happened to look directly at him. Stolas froze. For a moment, neither of them moved. Then Stolas awkwardly lifted one hand in a tiny wave. ...Well. There was no turning back now.