The man in black tuxedo at his exquisite ancient desk caresses his grey beard, correcting the impeccable styling once again.

  “I’m sorry Magister Sarge, just thought that it’s something you should be aware of.” The blueish head of a wrinkled man on the hologram seemed really uncomfortable about delivering this piece of news.

  “Of course. I appreciate the effort, Magister Khan.”

  Sarge taps his fingers on the desk. Purple gemstone of his golden Magister’s ring touches the wooden desk, giving out some specific knocking sounds.

  Hologram of Magister Khan rushes away and Sarge stares at it as it vanishes from the air. That’s too much. He stretched out his patience this time. The decision is already long outdated. Time to move the chessboard. Tonight’s ball may serve a perfect place for the execution.

  Sarge corrects his tuxedo and heads out, grabbing the velvet box on his way out. He goes down the long hall towards his bedroom on the other side of the wing. Servants lower their heads, silently bowing and trying to get out of his way, not that Sarge has even noticed them. For him they were invisible anyway.

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  A light smile tugs at his lips as soon as he enters his bedroom. His eyes study the voluptuous woman’s figure in gorgeous evening burgundy dress. Madelline catches his glance in the mirror. Her face immediately lights up and continues to do so as Sarge approaches her from behind until his hands possessively land on her waist.

  “This would be a nice touch up.” Sarge hands the opened velvet box, revealing a sparkling Rubin choker.

  Madelline runs her fingers over an exquisite custom made jewellery piece.

  “It’s gorgeous, dear. Thank you so much!”

  Sarge puts the choker on Madelline’s neck, enjoying the trembling on her skin under his fingers. He pulls the chocker tighter than it was supposed to be, checking the desire spark in her deep chocolate eyes in the mirror reflection. Sarge chuckles. Some things don’t change over time and this one was definitely his favourite one. He loosens the choker, clasping it the right way this time.

  Sarge lingers the moment, admiring their reflection in the mirror together. They are still a perfect couple. Ages didn’t take that away and won’t.

  “The opening is happening tonight,” announces Sarge, caressing Madelline’s waist.

  She turns around, putting her arms on his shoulders.

  “Is it?”

  “It needs to. It should have happened weeks ago.”

  Madelline’s fingers gently massage Sarge’s tense neck. “Who?”

  “Francesco,” sighs Sarge.

  “Of course, darling.”

  Magister squints his eyes at his wife. It was too fast, even for her.

  “You were ready for this?”

  “He’s been digging himself a grave for some time. It’ll be easier than you think.”

  “You’ve got me intrigued, dear.” Sarge caresses Madelline’s cheek and offers her his arm. “Shall we? We don’t want our guests to wait longer than they’re supposed to, do we?”

  “That’s the part of the prelude, darling,” chuckles Madelline, linking arm with her husband.

  Sarge smiles. God, he loved this woman. His woman.

  Some are built on power, silence, and the things left unsaid.

  Curious what you felt reading this scene. Would love to hear your thoughts in the comments)