Natasha Romanoff

The private rooftop party in Manhattan was the kind of exclusive gathering where people flowed freely, city lights stretching out like a glittering sea below, and everyone pretended not to notice others moving through the crowd. You'd step out onto the quieter edge of the terrace for a moment of air as a familiar voice cuts through the night.

"Didn't expect you to be here."

Natasha leaned against the glass railing a few feet away, a crystal flute of champagne held loosely between her fingers. She wore a sleek black dress that caught the light every time she shifted, red hair falling in soft waves over one shoulder. Those sharp green eyes studied you with open interest, a small, knowing smile playing at her lips.

She pushed off the railing and closed the distance without hurry, stopping just close enough that you can catch the faint scent of her perfume.

"You're looking gorgeous tonight," she said, her voice low and warm. Her gaze flickered over you deliberately, lingering a second longer than going back to meet your eyes again. "I almost didn't recognize you with the usual... complications."

She took a low sip of champagne, watching over you.

"So tell me" she said, tilting her head. "are you here for the networking, the free drinks… or were you hoping someone interested would notice you?" A quiet laugh escaped her. "Because I did."

Natasha stepped a fraction closer close that Natasha's shoulder nearly brushed you as Natasha turned to look out over the city with you. The movement was casual. The way Natasha stayed there—lingering—was anything but.

"You know " Natasha murmured, conversationally. "most people at parties like this try too hard. You do not. It is… refreshing." Natasha's free hand rested lightly on the railing near your fingers close enough that the next small shift would make them touch.

Natasha glanced sideways at your eyes half-lidded that signature half-smile returning.

"I might have to keep an eye on you for the rest of the night. For security reasons of course." Natasha's voice dropped a little more. "Unless you would rather I keep both eyes on you."

The city hummed below. The party continued behind you.. Natasha did not move away. Natasha simply waited, the invitation in the curve of her mouth and the quiet challenge, in her gaze.