Sugar Song to Bitter Step

Loud, boisterous laughter competed with the orchestra as the dancers twirled across gleaming marble floors. Elaborate costumes, adorned with rich jewel tones, lace, and precious stones, sparkled in the candlelight.

Tia watched the whole scene with a mixture of intrigue and amazement, even though big events like this had never really been his cup of tea. His mild, almost shy nature meant that he favored more peaceful and quiet surroundings and he would never have set foot in such an exclusive event if it hadn't been for the insistence of a friend. 

And then there he was, hair and ears properly styled, wearing a white suit jacket, white shirt, dark tie, and black pants and shoes.

And a simple plain mask, indicating him as a part of the staff.

The masquerade was quickly finding as an overwhelming event, or rather Rosemond found himself infuriated by his mentor’s constant shepherding him off to the next round of business partners to dance and talk about the company. 

This wasn’t a company dinner, he didn’t see why his freedom time should be completely taken by work. It was all he could do to sneak off when his mentor was turned. He wasn’t under any impression that he could hide, an outfit and mask covered in rose made sure of that and with his chest and legs exposed in his signature style, he wasn’t exactly easy to lose in a crowd.

Luckily he saw a member of the staff and beelined towards the doll. “Excuse me?” His voice was soft.

Tia made his rounds efficiently and discreetly. Thanks to his years running a café, it was almost second nature for him.

While he was busy collecting the glasses and plates from one of the tables, an unfamiliar voice caught his attention, and from the elegant and extravagant outfit of the doll that stood behind him, it was obvious that he was a guest…a very tall guest.

“Oh, hello…can I assist you with anything?” Tia asked politely as he turned to face the guest.

“Not exactly darling, I’m mostly trying to avoid some…unsavory dance partners.” Rosemond laughed softly, reaching up a hand to adjust his mask. “Would you mind a little conversation?”

He also thought that the staff was probably very busy, but he didn’t quite understand how these things worked. A product of having always known money, he didn’t have any experience with the hospitality side of working.

Tia studied the doll in front of him, almost as if reflecting on his request. This kind of behavior would be considered inappropriate and Angora had given all the staff instructions on how to behave in the workplace. 

However, on the other hand....

"Well...we have been instructed to take care of any requests from our guests, so I guess that would be ok..." Obviously, this was a clear loophole in the rules, but that guest was looking for a getaway, and his bleeding heart would make him help.

“If you're looking for a moment of respite from the party, you'll find some tables on the balcony, which is very quiet and private.”

Rosemond smiled, looking a touch relieved as he nodded, “Oh you’re just adorable, trying to help me. Yes, I would like that.” 

Not to mention the balcony meant fresh air and some time away from the warm environment of bodies on a dance floor. 

“I hope your night has been better than mine, or maybe I could cheer you up as well? I like to think I’m good company if you do.”

Tia looked at the guest a little surprised, but soon gave a soft chuckle.

"I think my night has been...normal I guess. I’m here to give a bit of moral support to a friend....." Tia gave a small smile. "Just feel free to go ahead without me, I need to take this tray back to the kitchen."

Rosemond’s voice softened into something more genuine, “How lovely, it’s always nice to support your friends isn’t it?” He certainly wished he had more chances to do so with his friends.

He was quick to agree, “Right, of course, I’ll go find a table on the balcony. Hopefully, it’s quick, I fear I’ll be pulled to the dance floor if anyone catches me.”

Tia went straight to the kitchen to deliver the bowls and dishes that were used.

Upon the tray's emptying, the doll arranged a small ice bucket with a bottle of champagne, an empty glass, and some appetizers on a plate. Quickly, he went to the balcony to meet the guest, who was taking advantage of the pleasant evening breeze. 

“Sorry for making you wait…” the doll said with a small smile while opening the bottle and serving the champagne for the other bun.

Rosemond didn’t waste time walking to the balcony, already rushing towards the doors that lead to an equally decorated terrace. He had to admit Angora knew how to stylize her parties, especially with last year’s decorations.

He was still admiring the area around his table when he heard the server again. “Hush, I’m not troubled by waiting. I even managed not to catch anyone’s eyes on the way here… or at least no one that was looking for me.”

 “I'm glad you were able to take a moment to rest, after all, it's a shame to come to a party like this and not enjoy it.” Tia said as he sat down.

Rosemond looked touched, even going so far as to remove his mask so the other doll could see his smile. “You’re sweet. It comes with the company I keep.” He picked up his champagne glass and took a sip. “But don’t worry, I am enjoying myself between the irritating parts. I love parties.”

Tia was taken aback when he saw the guest remove his mask and even more so when the lust bun realized how charming the other was. His cheeks even warmed for a moment.

“Sounds a bit tiring…” Tia smiled kindly. "Personally, parties in general aren't exactly my cup of tea."

Rosemond felt a bit cheeky to ignore the other doll‘s blush, it might sound selfish but he was well aware he was a man worth looking at.

“I suppose it is but don’t be concerned, I actually do have my free time.” He was comforted by the other’s smile. “And yet you helped your friend? You sound like a very endearing person.”

"Well, not quite..." Tia chuckled as he filled Rosemond's glass as soon as he realized it was empty. 

"She's a littermate, you know? We grew up together...so I guess it's hard to say no...although I also think she takes advantage of that and drags me up and down every time she wants something."

Rosemond seemed happy to have his glass refilled, although he had best sip this one slowly. He was almost embarrassed to admit to how many he’s already had.

“Hmm,” he frowned, “I would be cautious, my dear friend, it’s one thing to be friends but it’s an entirely different thing to be taken advantage of. True friends don’t do such things, especially if it’s far out of one’s comfort.”

Tia gave him a warm soft smile.

The situation wasn't as bad as it seemed. He knew that he could count on his friend at any time when he needed help at the Café, not to mention that she was also responsible for some of the items on the menu.

She was a good friend....a bit lazy, but a good friend nonetheless.

"I'll keep that in mind, thank you..."

Rosemond’s expression softened, flattered by that kinda smile. He didn’t think he said anything too noteworthy, but he liked to think his advice was taken from a good place.

“Oh, of course, one should always be mindful.” He shook his head, feeling a little giddy from a touch of too much alcohol. “Goodness that reminds me of my ex-husband, always a man too quick with his word and not with his heart. Never let anyone take advantage, otherwise you’ll end up throwing a party for your divorce.” He chuckled behind his hand, trying to keep some grace even with what he said.

He looked at the charming doll with astonishment in his eyes, until he burst into giggles at the remark. It was somewhat uncommon to find buns who would choose to get married, but it wasn't uncommon for those who tried to end up changing their minds.

"Sounds like someone a bit hard to be around...." Tia said softly, after moving his mask away for a moment to wipe the tears that had ended up forming at the corner of his eyes. " For how long did you stay together? Of course, if you don't mind me asking."

Tia could hear the sound of the orchestra playing from inside the hall and briefly took a glance inside. More and more couples had gathered on the dance floor and things seemed to have livened up a bit.

Rosemond seemed to brighten with each giggle from the other doll, he did like when others could find humor in the things he joked about. Especially about something as unsavory as his ex-husband and divorce.

He scoffed, “Oh you don’t know the half of it dear, the one and only time I’ll say my mentor was right about who’s a sceil in hiding.” He gave the other doll a glance when he moved his mask. “We lasted two I believe, maybe just under. A waste of my time.”

"I'm sorry to hear that..." Tia replied calmly, more out of lack of response than out of pity. It was clear that the elegant bun would not allow anyone to pity him.

And it was then that the conversation seemed to come to a halt. Neither of them spoke for several minutes, just enjoying the soft music coming from inside, the comfortable silence, and the light evening breeze.

The other doll couldn’t have been more right, there was a person in the burrows that Rosemond would never let pity him. He had too much pride in such things.

Still, the conversation tapered off on a comfortable note, the night air surrounding them only broken by the music coming through the balcony door. 

“What’s your name dear? I think it’s only polite to tell you mine is Rosemond.”

Tia shifted his gaze to the bun, almost as if he hadn't understood the question until he finally had a grasp of the situation. At that moment, his face lit up. Whether it was embarrassment or something else, he couldn't say for sure, but he knew that the staff were invisible at parties like this.

For such an esteemed guest to ask his name...well, he didn't have to say anything else.

"Oh... my name is Tia... it's a pleasure..."Said the bun, a little embarrassed.

Rosemond did wonder about Tia’s reaction, the way his face lit up from something as simple as asking for one’s name. It was all so very endearing, unlike most of the buns he was used to meeting.

“The pleasure is all mine, Tia,” He reached out a hand to fix the other doll’s collar, “Honestly you’re quite the helpful person, I’m glad I was able to meet you tonight, You saved me from a dull night.”

"Not for that!" Tia muttered, still feeling a bit bashful

Another moment of silence fell between them, but this time Tia couldn't help but feel a little uncomfortable. He didn't usually act like this, but for some reason, this evening was turning out to be quite atypical.

"So... is there anything else you'd like help with?" Tia didn't know how long he had been there, but he was sure that it wouldn't be long before another member of the staff would come looking for him.

Rosemond raised an eyebrow, curious about the other doll’s reactions, but he decided to chalk it up to being shy. Beyond that, he was starting to realize he was perhaps taking a bit too long of a hiding away from his responsibilities.

“That’s alright dear, it’s about time I rejoined the party I think.” He laughed quietly, “And I’m sure I’ve been keeping you too long “

"It's okay, I'm always glad to be of help..." Tia stands up from his chair and smiles at Rosemond. "And for the rest of the evening, don't hesitate to look for me if you need anything..."

Rosemond paused then, something catching in his smile for a moment, “You know, it would be a pity tonight to not have a quick dance with a helpful doll.”

He offered his hand, “Would you humor me, Tia? I’d like to enjoy one dance this evening.”

Tia looked at Rosemond, startled. Of all the things the elegant bun could had asked of him, a dance was certainly the furthest thing from his mind. 

"Of course, I would be flattered..." Tia replied, feeling his face start to flush. 

At least now he would be able to say that he had had a good time at the party.

Rosemond seemed delighted, he did think Tia was a kind bun and he certainly did like the thought of spending just a little more time together.

“Wonderful!” He took the other doll’s and lead them both back to the dance floor.

"Oh," said the bun, feeling a bit uneasy. "you're going back inside?”

It was true that he had agreed to dance with Rosemond. But dancing inside, in the middle of everyone, might not work out so well for him. 

After all, he was there to work, not to dance.

Rosemond paused, noticing the other bun’s hesitation and smiled kindly.

“Oh if you prefer to dance here, then that’s perfect with me.”

He laughed quietly, “As long as you don’t mind the music being a little quiet.”

"That's fine with me." Tia smiled softly and took Rosemond's hand.

He had to admit he was a little nervous, as it had been a while since he had last danced.

Rosemond was quick to pull Tia close, pulling him into a simple dance. Nothing too fancy or complicated, just swaying while the music is just barely reaching them with a few quiet notes.

“You know Tia, I think this might be one of the parties I don’t actually mind.”

"Oh, why so?" Tia asked while following Rosemond moves.

Rosemond only grinned, “You have been the most pleasant company, a far cry from what I’m used to here.”

As the two buns continued their slow, pleasant steps, Tia felt a harming sensation in his face as a shy smile spread across his lips. 

Honestly, if working during a party is going to be like this, he certainly won't mind.