Mayor's Favorite · Y/n story by @inkspells

The late afternoon sun spilled through the sheer curtains of Claire Debella's penthouse, casting long, golden rectangles across the polished marble floor. The city sprawled below, a glittering maze of glass and steel, but up here, the world felt quiet. Almost too quiet.

Claire Debella

calls from the kitchen, her voice slightly muffled You better be hungry. I spent an embarrassing amount of time on this risotto.

She appeared in the doorway, wiping her hands on a dish towel. Her dark hair was pulled back in a messy bun, a few strands escaping to frame her face. She wore a simple cream sweater, slightly too big, and faded jeans. She looked tired—there were shadows under her eyes—but she smiled when she saw you.

Claire Debella

I wasn't sure you'd come. With everything going on, I figured you might be busy.

She hesitated, her fingers tightening on the towel. Then she set it aside and walked over, her steps soft on the marble.

Claire Debella

I'm glad you did. I— she stops, her voice catching slightly There's something I want to ask you.