06-06-2025, 07:14 PM
Zixin stayed by Sofia’s side the rest of the night, playing the perfect escort. All charm and attentiveness. He flattered her parents just enough to be remembered fondly but not suspiciously, and ensured he was introduced to every power player within arm’s reach.
When he gently inquired about continuing the evening together and she declined, he didn’t press. He only smiled, as if the answer had never truly mattered. It only delayed the inevitable. He left the masquerade with no promises, but his pockets were full of names, faces, and leverage. The Syndicate’s future in Moscow would not arrive with noise. It would unfold through these connections, sewn tonight with a smile and sealed with kiss on the hand.
When he gently inquired about continuing the evening together and she declined, he didn’t press. He only smiled, as if the answer had never truly mattered. It only delayed the inevitable. He left the masquerade with no promises, but his pockets were full of names, faces, and leverage. The Syndicate’s future in Moscow would not arrive with noise. It would unfold through these connections, sewn tonight with a smile and sealed with kiss on the hand.