#convo: kris4

[fairywilds]

“Flattery like that, and you’ll have me offering you VIP treatment." Ezra responded. His gaze flickered around the room for a moment, as if considering her question, before returning to her. “My secret, hm? Let’s just say it’s all about knowing the right mix— ambiance, discretion, and a little dash of intrigue,” he explained like it was some fancy drink recipe he'd made a thousand times before. “...People come here to feel like they’re stepping out of their everyday lives, and I'm more than happy to give them a space to be whoever they want to be for the night," Ezra paused, letting the hum of the lounge fill the silence for a moment. "But, maybe that’s the real secret— this place has a way of finding the right kind of people.” He expressed.

Kris couldn’t help but grin at the subtle compliment, lifting her glass slightly in acknowledgment before taking a sip. “First time, yeah,” she admitted, her tone light and conversational. “Figured I’d finally see what all the fuss was about. I’ve heard this place is kind of a hidden gem.” Her gaze swept briefly over the room, taking in the lively yet intimate ambiance before returning to Ezra. “Gotta say, it lives up to the hype. You’ve got something special here.” She leaned her forearm against the bar, her posture relaxed but with a spark of curiosity in her eyes. “So, what’s your secret? A place like this doesn’t just run on good drinks and great lighting. You’ve got a way of keeping people coming back,” she said, tilting her head slightly. “And I’m guessing it’s more than just making sure everyone behaves.”

[fairywilds]

Ezra took a moment to appraise the newcomer, his sharp gaze sweeping over Kris’s effortlessly cool look. Her appearance spoke of confidence without trying too hard— a combination he found intriguing. “Guilty as charged,” he replied smoothly, a faint smile tugging at the corners of his lips. “Though ‘busy’ depends on the night. Sometimes it’s managing the chaos; other times, it’s just making sure everyone behaves themselves.” He nodded toward her drink. “Seems like you’ve already made yourself at home. I appreciate the good taste, by the way.” Leaning slightly on the bar, Ezra’s tone shifted to something more conversational, though his sharp edge remained. “But, I must admit: I’ve got a pretty good memory for faces, and yours isn’t one I’d forget,” He let the compliment land lightly, not lingering too long on it. “First time here, I take it?” he let the question hang, inviting her to fill in the blank.

Stepping into the Midnight Room, a downtown speakeasy lounge, Kris took in the crowd, all decked out in vintage-like glamour; suits with cufflinks and pocket squares, fringe dresses, and flapper-style headbands. She glanced down at her own look: a sleek black, wide-legged jumpsuit with a deep V-neck, her well-worn leather jacket, a simple gold chain, and small hoops with her hair pulled back in a low bun and bold red lips. It was her first time here so she wasn’t sure what the vibe would be, but she fit right in. Sliding onto a barstool, Kris ordered her drink and was just checking in on Parker when a well-dressed man emerged from a side door. The bartender responded with a quick “yes, boss,” when he approached and Kris raised an eyebrow, glancing his way. “So, I take it you’re the man in charge here?” she mused, stirring her drink. “You got a nice setup here. Bet this place keeps you busy.” @fairywilds