...was invited to dance

A man in a tiger mask approached, dressed in a fine black suit. “Forgive me, señorita,” he said, his voice a deep purr, “but I couldn’t help but notice you standing alone. May I have the honor of this dance?”

Isabella hesitated, her mind racing. Declining might draw attention, and blending in was her priority tonight. She glanced at the other masked figures twirling gracefully under the glittering candle light, then back at the man. His outstretched hand was steady, confident.

She placed her hand in his, letting him guide her toward the dance floor. His arms wrapped around her, his hand resting on the small of her back. She could feel the warmth through the thin fabric of her dress, his fingers pressing against her skin. The orchestra struck up a sultry waltz, the music weaving through the chatter and laughter of the masquerade. Isabella could smell his cologne, a spicy scent that made her head swim.

The tiger-man swept her into the rhythm of the waltz with practiced ease. His movements were precise, his posture commanding, but there was a lightness to his steps that made it impossible for her not to follow. For a moment, the weight of the evening faded, replaced by the hypnotic pull of the music and the graceful swirl of their steps.

“You dance well,” he said, his tone casual but tinged with curiosity. “Not many at these gatherings still bother to learn the classics.”

“I’ve had practice,” Isabella replied, her voice measured.

“You carry yourself with an air of mystery,” he continued, his golden mask gleaming as he tilted his head. “Not like the others here. You’re not one to indulge in meaningless chatter, are you?”

“Perhaps I prefer to listen,” she said lightly.

“Wise,” he replied, his lips curving into a smile beneath the mask. His eyes lingered on hers, making her heart race. She could feel the heat rising in her cheeks, his touch sending shivers through her body. He leaned in closer, his voice low and husky.

"What do you think of your first taste of a masquerade, beautiful stranger?"

"It's... interesting," she breathed.

"And how would you feel about... a little more than just a taste?"

The waltz ended, the notes of the final refrain lingering in the air. The tiger-man released her, his fingertips brushing against her waist. She shivered, her pulse quickening.

"I... I should go," she said, her voice shaking.

"Are you sure?" he asked, his eyes glittering behind the mask. "You seem to be enjoying yourself. Why not let loose, and enjoy the evening without inhibitions? There is a room upstairs. We can go there, and no one will bother us."

She swallowed, her throat dry. Her heart hammered against her chest, her palms damp with sweat. His hands were on her arms, his touch sending waves of pleasure through her.

"Come, let me take you there," he purred, his voice a deep rumble. "You will enjoy yourself, I promise.