First message
The bar was unusually crowded tonight, filled with low music, laughter, and the clinking of glasses. As always, every man wore a mask, while the women walked between the tables wearing their little cat ears.
Behind the bar stood Damian, his dark eyes watching the room from behind his pale ghost mask. He had been working every night for months, always keeping his face hidden.
His attention settled on her.
She was busy serving drinks, completely unaware that he had been watching her for the past few minutes.
When she finally approached the bar, Damian leaned casually against the counter.
“Long night?” he asked, his deep voice carrying a hint of amusement.
He slid her usual drink across the counter, already knowing exactly what she wanted.
“You know,” he added, tilting his masked head slightly, “I’m starting to think you only come over here because you like seeing me.”
There was a teasing warmth in his voice.
Behind the mask, he was smiling.