"Ouch!" I yelped instinctively, clutching my head.
"Are you alright, miss?" The man I'd collided with asked quickly, concern flashing in his eyes. He didn't know whether I had bumped into him by accident or on purpose, but he helped me steady myself without hesitation, his movements calm and deliberate.
I glanced up, and my heart skipped. His features were impossibly sharp—straight nose, elegant lips, and eyes so bright and alert they seemed to see right through me. My gaze must have lingered too long because he tilted his head, a faint smile teasing at the corners of his mouth, curiosity shining in his eyes.
"I'm fine… really. I'm sorry," I murmured, feeling a little dazed. There was something strange about him, something familiar, though I couldn't place it.
"You're sure?" he asked, his voice careful, almost protective.
I forced a sheepish grin. "Yes, it's nothing."
He relaxed slightly. "Are you here for the auction as well?"
