[ It’s nice, Gale realises, to have a companion at his side. Although he can feel the weight of eyes on him, someone or multiple someones in the crowd, he needn’t go beyond their world of two, instead watching Astarion’s mouth wrap around a tease. It’s only when he tips his head to allow Astarion closer that he unintentionally catches a familiar courtier’s eye. She watches him with obvious interest, eyes sparkling over the rim of her glass as the music swells.

Pink dusts his cheeks, either from the compliment or the implications. The attention at his side or up ahead. Blood orgies, ridiculous soirées, gods below. Perhaps he should marry and be done with it all. ]

Ah — I suspect your teeth will be more than enough for me. [ Gale turns his head inward to avoid the other woman’s gaze, nose brushing Astarion’s cheek. His pulse quickens. ] But I wouldn’t underestimate the sharpness of your present competition, even in these early stages. [ A member of said competition is already venturing towards them, so Gale tugs Astarion’s toward the floor. ] In fact, we’re overdue a dance.

[ And inviting challenge by delaying it any further. ]