The dance is slow and intimate, with the music drifting gently through the air. Leon is acutely aware of every brush of Atlas's hand against his back, the warmth of his touch spreading through his body. It feels like a magnetic force, pulling him closer. Atlas leans in slightly as they move, his breath warm against Leon's ear as he murmurs, "I thought I told you not to reveal what happened at the temple."
Leon looks up at him, cheeks flushing. "I haven't," he whispers. "But I still don't understand what—"
"Later," Atlas interrupts softly, tightening his grip on Leon's waist. "There are too many eyes on us."
The dance ends, but the tension lingers. Atlas doesn't let go immediately, his fingers lingering at Leon's waist. Before Leon can respond, Atlas steps back, his expression unreadable. He gives Leon a small nod, then turns to leave, blending seamlessly into the crowd.
As the evening wears on, Leon decides he needs fresh air and slips out to the palace garden, finding a secluded spot surrounded by tall hedges and fragrant flowers. He leans against a marble bench, taking deep breaths to calm his racing heart.
Suddenly, he hears footsteps approaching. Atlas appears, having followed him out. "You looked like you needed a break," he says, his voice softer than before.
Leon can't help but smile wryly. "I thought I was doing a good job hiding that."
"Not from me," Atlas replies. He steps closer, his gaze intense. "There's something I need to know."
Before Leon can ask what Atlas means, the young duke reaches out, brushing his fingertips across Leon's cheek. The touch is so gentle that it makes Leon shiver. Their eyes lock, and without another word, Atlas leans in, pressing his lips to Leon's in a tender, searching kiss.