As the lights flickered back on after a five-minute delay, the ballroom returned to life, though the atmosphere was now distinctly different.
Rather than confusion or panic, there were more than a few satisfied smiles across the room. Several ladies had flushed cheeks, while a few men stood sheepishly with visible traces of lipstick on their lips.
Maverick, however, stood frozen in place, still processing what had just happened. The ghost of Julius's kiss lingered on his lips, the warmth still palpable. His mind swirled in confusion, unable to comprehend how the night had taken such a sudden and intimate turn.
Before he could gather his thoughts, Louis came running over, beaming with excitement. He grabbed Maverick by the arm and pulled him aside, lowering his voice but unable to contain his glee.
"So, how was it, Maverick? Did you two kiss?" Louis's eyes gleamed with curiosity, practically bouncing on his feet.
