The Game | D.M

13

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'Kiss'

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Aria Zabini

(one month later)

A month had passed since my opulent birthday celebration, yet the memories of that horrid night still lingered in the corridors of my mind.

As I strolled through the cobblestone streets of Hogsmeade, my steps light and purposeful, I couldn't help but reflect on the whirlwind of events that had unfolded since that fateful night.

Draco's absence had become increasingly conspicuous, his once frequent presence now reduced to fleeting glimpses and uncomfortable silences whenever our paths crossed. I however, found myself surprisingly unperturbed by his dwindling appearances.

Maybe because I had been a little busy messing around with Laurent. He had surprisingly captured my attention in ways I had never thought possible.

Beside me, Pansy radiated with anticipation as we made our way to the bustling heart of Hogsmeade. The Celestial Ball loomed on the horizon, an event of unparalleled grandeur and elegance that promised to set the night ablaze with magic and mystery.

"I can hardly contain my excitement," Pansy exclaimed, her eyes alight with anticipation as we approached the ornate facade of Madame Everglow's Emporium.

My lips straightened into a fine line, I have never been found of the ball, ever. The Celestial Ball was more than just a social affair; it was for pureblood parents to show off their children like trophies. Especially, the girls.

The moment we stepped into the opulent boutique, the air hummed with the whispers of silk and satin, each garment a testament to the artistry of its creator.

I twirled a strand of my hair between my fingers as I wandered through the aisles of the elegant dress shop, my eyes dancing over the array of colors and fabrics.

Pansy trailed close by, occasionally picking up a dress and holding it against herself with a critical eye.

"Look at this one, Ari," Pansy called out, holding up a sleek black gown adorned with intricate lace detailing. "It would look absolutely stunning on you."

I glanced at the dress and offered a polite smile. "It's lovely, Pans, but I don't think it's quite what I'm looking for."

Pansy sighed dramatically. "You're too picky, Ari. We've been through half the shop, and you haven't found anything that catches your eye."

I sighed softly, my gaze scanning the racks once more. I couldn't quite put my finger on it, but there was something missing – a certain spark, a touch of magic that would make me feel truly enchanting.

And then I saw it.

Sitting on a hanger that was in a row of elegant evening gowns, there it was – a dress unlike any I had ever seen before. It was puffy and extravagant, its fabric shimmering like liquid gold under the soft glow of the shop's lights.

"Pans," I whispered, my voice barely above a breath. "Look at this."

Pansy turned to see what had captured my attention and gasped audibly as her eyes fell upon the golden dress. "Oh, Ari," she breathed, her voice tinged with awe. "It's magnificent."

Without a second thought, I reached out and gently pulled the dress from its hanger, holding it up to the light as though examining a precious gemstone. The fabric felt soft and luxurious against my fingertips, and I could almost imagine herself gliding across a ballroom floor, the envy of every eye in the room.