Dancing in the Dark - A Severus Snape Love Story

5 | The Yule Ball

a/n

This is an extra long chapter, so buckle up ;)

I was determined to be the best looking one at the Yule Ball. Now that I had finally grown into my looks, it was time to get my revenge on the years I spent alone and unwanted.

My skinny legs had grown into long stems, making me now reach about 5'10". Though I didn't really have hips, this was disguised with having a smaller waist and a full chest. I stared at myself in the mirror, judging every detail about myself. It took a very long time to love my appearance, but I was making great steps towards it. My long brown hair was twisted into a romantic undo, small curled tendrils framing my heart shaped face. My makeup was on the sexy side with dark cat-eyes, arched brows and a bold lip painted in deep red. It took me a second to realize how I was feeling, but it finally hit me.

I feel beautiful

The thought nearly brought tears to my eyes when I realized I finally liked what I saw in the mirror. Did I look this pretty every day?

I can't believe it, but I'm actually excited for the Yule Ball.

I had gone shopping in London a few weeks ago to find the perfect gown for tonight. The moment I saw the sparkling green dress (see chapter photo) in the window of a muggle store, I knew it was the one. With a flick of my wand, the dress laced itself up around me. I lifted the skirts to step into my black heels and fastened the silver snake choker around my neck. Even though I had graduated, I was still a proud Slytherin.

And if Severus liked it too, so be it.

Finally, the look was complete. With one last once over of myself, I grabbed my black winter cloak and headed for Snape's room.

~~~

Once again, I found myself nervously standing outside of his door. He's never seen me looking this good before. Hell, I've never seen myself looking this good before.

I took one last deep breath knowing it very well may be the last full breath I take tonight and knocked on the door.

"Enter." The monotone voice boomed.

My hand seemed to move in slow motion as I turned the handle to open the door. Inside, I saw Snape was facing away from me, adjusting the collar under his black robes in front of a small mirror. I took him in for a moment while he continued to straighten himself out. He had on shiny, new shoes. Nothing like the old ones he wore every day to class. His robes looked like they had been freshly pressed and... wait a minute...

Did he curl his hair?

I couldn't be sure if he had done something with it or if he had finally washed it. Perhaps his hair had a natural wave to it without all the grease. Either way, it was a good look.

"All ready to go?" I had butterflies just looking at him. He looked good. And I was his date. Severus turned to answer me but stopped suddenly when he saw what was standing in his doorway.

"You-you... You look exquisite Miss Cross." He could barely get the words out. I felt a little relief that he was pleased with my appearance but more than anything I felt myself falling deeper for him.

Snape was not one to compliment.

"Thank you sir. You look quite nice yourself." I blushed deeply and fought to keep my gaze on him. We both did. Snape swallowed roughly and grabbed his cloak hanging on the hook next to me.

"Shall we be going then?" All I could do was nod.

~~~

All the teachers arrived before the students were set to come.