As the night wore on, Tahira found herself growing more and more comfortable in her role as Lady Natalia. She had always been a skilled actress, and she was able to convincingly play the part of a vampire noblewoman.
But despite her growing confidence, Tahira couldn't shake the feeling that she was being watched. She caught glimpses of a tall, dark-haired man lurking at the edges of the ballroom, his eyes fixed intently on her.
Tahira's instincts told her that this man was trouble, and she made a mental note to avoid him. But as the night wore on, she found herself drawn to him again and again, their eyes meeting across the crowded room.
Finally, as the clock struck midnight, the dark-haired man made his move. He strode across the ballroom, his eyes locked on Tahira's, and bowed low over her hand.
"May I have the pleasure of this dance, Lady Natalia?" he asked, his voice low and husky.