It was huge, and circular, with a ceiling that had to be at least four or five stories tall and featured a chandelier that probably took up more square feet than Micah’s entire apartment.

Micah didn’t know if it was the unique architecture or the mood lighting, but something about the place made Micah feel more like he was in a medieval cathedral, or even a castle, rather than a posh building in New York.

The marble floors were a warm brown, and the interior walls were made of multicolored brick. Most of the space was taken up by round tables with ornate floral centerpieces, but there was also an area which Micah assumed was meant for dancing, as well as a large podium, which featured a band playing soft jazz music. Of course, there were also two bars on either side of the circular room, which seemed to be popular spots for guests to congregate.

The grand hall also featured multiple archways, which Micah assumed branched off into other rooms, such as lounges and restrooms. He knew one of the rooms must have showcased the items for sale in the gala’s silent auction.

It was one of the ways – besides the ticket prices, which Micah assumed were quite exorbitant – that the gala was raising money for a charity called Dare to Dream – a foundation that helped youth in foster care by offering education and resources for families in need.

One of the only reasons Micah had agreed to attend the gala with Damon at all was because he thought it was a worthwhile cause.

“Alright?” Damon asked, pulling Micah from his reverie. He hadn’t realized he’d stopped walking as he stared, wide-eyed at the grandeur of Gotham Hall.

Micah nodded, allowing Damon to pull him along after the attendant, who was showing them to their table. He didn’t see Beyoncé anywhere, but he did see a head of hair that looked suspiciously like Dolly Parton’s.

“Don’t worry,” Damon assured, his lips tantalizingly close to Micah as he spoke softly in his ear, “we only have to stay for the meal and the results of the auction. Then we can leave.”

As awed as Micah was by the splendor of the place, leaving sounded awesome.

It wasn’t long after they were seated that the rest of the chairs around their table began to fill. Micah wasn’t sure if he was relieved or dismayed to recognize most of the faces.

There was Damon’s Uncle Marco, dressed pristinely in a gray suit a shade darker than his own. He chose to sit in the free chair next to Micah.

Micah was taken off guard to also see Caprice and her husband, Jason – and he wasn’t the only one surprised judging by Damon’s reaction. “Caprice, I didn’t expect to see you here.”

He sounded pissed.

Jason, at least, had the sense to look apologetic.