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Josie made the decision to attend the party, even though she anticipates it could be tiring. She prefers feeling tired over being left out for not going. She braids a few strands of her hair while waiting for Dorcas, who is taking longer than usual because Marlene will be at the party.
As Josie plays with one of her rings, she finds herself wondering which girl Regulus will be with tonight. She feels a twinge of guilt at her own thoughts, did I just...slut shame him?
Brushing that aside, she refocuses her mind on Regulus. Lately, their interactions feel strange. Whenever she sees him, butterflies flutter in her stomach, and she can't deny feeling jealous when he is with someone else. Could it be that she likes Regulus Black?
The thought frightens her a little. What would happen if she does have feelings for him? Realistically, she believes nothing will come of it, as there is no way he will reciprocate. So, even if she does like him, she convinces herself that nothing will change.
Oddly enough, this thought brings her some comfort. It is strange how the idea of nothing happening actually makes her feel better.
Her thoughts are interrupted when Dorcas emerges from the bathroom.
"Ready?" Dorcas asks, pushing her hair back.
Josie smiles and replies, "You look amazing."
Dorcas returns the smile, and they head out.
"Just a heads-up, there might be some odd guys at the party, but I'm sure you can handle yourself, and I'll be there too," Dorcas cautions.
"Thanks for letting me know, Cas."
They make their way to the dungeons and approach the Slytherin common room door, where Evan awaits them.
"Josette! I see you've decided to join us," he greets her with a smile.
She nods. "Yes, Evan, but I might leave early. I'm feeling tired."
Evan whispers the password, and the door swings open.
Undoubtedly a Slytherin party...
While students from other houses are present, Josie can easily discern the nature of this gathering. She cringes as people bump into her, narrowly avoiding a couple engrossed in a passionate kiss.
Swiftly maneuvering around them, she follows Dorcas to a corner where Marlene stands.
Marlene embraces Dorcas, and Josie's eyebrows lift.
"Hey, Jo," Marlene greets her with a smile.
"Hey, Marlene."
Marlene and Dorcas wander off, leaving Josie to scan the room for familiar faces. The music blares, and some individuals dance energetically.
Approaching the table with alcoholic beverages, Josie winces at the overwhelming assortment.
She turns her head and spots Regulus engrossed in conversation with a girl. Their interaction seems flirtatious as they lean in and whisper to each other.
