Lost Devotion // Sebastian Sallow

Girls, Girls, Girls

"Have you figured out what you're going to wear? You have been standing there staring at that pile of clothes for the past twenty minutes." Imelda's voice broke through my deep pondering.

"Huh? Oh um I'm not sure really...I can't--"

"Ok that's it! I will decide for you and whatever I choose what what you wear, got it?" 

With an air of annoyance, she stomped towards my bed, sifting through all my belongings until she discovered a black corset, a matching long sleeve blouse, and a black skirt. I observed as she delicately placed the ensemble on my bed, while forcefully shoving the rest of my clothes back into my trunk.

"Am I going to a funeral?" I asked, eyeing the choice of color for it all.

"You might as well be because if you don't hurry up then I'm going to--"

"Okay Okay! I got it, I will hurry...you look really pretty by the way. I love that red blouse on you."

I changed out of my everyday clothes and began to put on the outfit she had picked out for me. It's not that I dislike the color black, but this outfit really accentuated my figure and revealed more than my typical sweaters.

"Thank you for the compliment. It think you will look great in that ensemble so don't worry."

Her words were reassuring and gave me a bit of a confidence boost to stop worrying so much. I mean really what did I care what anyone thought about how I looked or dressed? It's my choice and my bod, besides she was right, I did look really good. 

The mirror reflected back an image of myself, and I couldn't help but feel a pang of frustration at my unruly hair. Realizing that my efforts to style it were in vain, I made the bold choice to let it down completely, embracing the natural cascade of soft, wavy curls that adorned my back. With a sigh of contentment, I gently brushed a hint of rouge onto my lips and cheeks, enhancing my features with a touch of color.

"Why are you sighing? We haven't even left yet." Imelda was now standing a few steps behind me.

"I'm annoyed because I can't find my green velvet ribbon that I usually tie my hair back with. You haven't seen it have you?"

She shook her head side to side. "No but I do know the one you're talking about. If I see it I can let you know."

With a nod to her, I turned around proudly, revealing that I was completely ready. This time, there were hardly any nerves in my stomach, knowing it was just going to be a girls' night of fun and hanging out.

No boys, no drama.

No Sebastian.

"Damn you look hot, girl." She looked me up and down and whistled slightly. 

"Stop it before I change my mind." I elbowed her as we headed out into the common room. 

As I descended the bottom stair, I couldn't help but notice Ominis sitting all by himself near the fireplace. The room was still buzzing with activity, with several students engrossed in their own affairs. It was early enough that the place hadn't emptied out completely yet.

With Imelda practically pulling me along, it was clear she couldn't wait to leave the common room. However, I insisted on having a quick conversation with Ominis before we departed. As for Sebastian, it was no surprise that he was nowhere to be found, especially if Ominis was in the picture.

"Hello Ominis, we are just heading out. Imelda and I will be meeting up with Poppy." I said it to him in a reassuring way.

"Ah that's right, she did tell me about this. Please be safe alright? If you need anything at all you know where to find me." Ominis spoke out, his head turned in my direction.