Shadows & Serums

Chapter 2: Gloomy Mornings

Gloomy mornings didn't stop Farrah from getting the day started. The overcast sky cast a grey pallor over the castle grounds, but inside the Ravenclaw Tower, Farrah moved with her usual quiet efficiency. She dressed quickly, Lennox watching her with his keen eyes from the foot of her bed.

The common room was still mostly empty as she made her way down to the Great Hall for breakfast. She preferred the early morning quiet, a chance to gather her thoughts before the bustle of the day began.

As she entered the Great Hall, she noticed a group of students huddled around a noticeboard. Curiosity piqued, Farrah walked over and read the new announcement.

"All students are to report to the Great Hall immediately after breakfast to practice for the Yule Ball next week," the notice read. Farrah's heart sank. The Yule Ball was another thing she had been dreading. She wasn't particularly fond of social events, and the thought of dancing in front of the entire school filled her with anxiety.

She took her usual seat at the Ravenclaw table, helping herself to a piece of toast and a cup of tea. Her housemates chatted excitedly about the upcoming ball, their enthusiasm contrasting sharply with her own apprehension.

Just as she finished her breakfast, Professor McGonagall's voice rang through the hall. "All students, please make your way to the gymnasium for Yule Ball practice," she announced, her tone brooking no argument.

Farrah sighed and stood up, following the crowd out of the Great Hall. The gymnasium was already filling up by the time she arrived, students milling about in various states of excitement and trepidation. She found a spot near the back, hoping to blend in and avoid drawing attention to herself.

Professor McGonagall stood at the front, her stern gaze sweeping over the assembled students. "The Yule Ball is a longstanding tradition, and I expect all of you to conduct yourselves with grace and decorum," she began. "Today, we will be practicing the waltz. Partners will be assigned at random to ensure everyone has a chance to practice."

Farrah's heart sank even further. The thought of being paired with someone she didn't know, or worse, someone who would mock her awkward attempts at dancing, was almost too much to bear. She shifted uncomfortably, her gaze fixed on the floor.

"Miss Chutney," Professor McGonagall's voice snapped her out of her thoughts. "You will be partnered with Mr. Malfoy."

Farrah's head shot up, her eyes wide with surprise. She could see Draco across the room, his expression unreadable. He made his way over to her, the crowd parting for him as usual.

"Looks like we're partners again, Chutney," he said, a hint of amusement in his voice.

Farrah managed a weak smile. "It seems that way."

Professor McGonagall clapped her hands, and the students began to pair off and find space to practice. Farrah and Draco moved to an open spot, the awkwardness between them palpable.

"Have you ever waltzed before?" Draco asked, his tone surprisingly gentle.

Farrah shook her head. "Not really. I... I prefer to watch from the sidelines."

Draco chuckled softly. "Well, it's not as difficult as it looks. Here, let me show you."

He took her hand in his and placed his other hand on her waist. Farrah felt a flush of warmth spread through her at the contact, but she did her best to focus on his instructions.

"Just follow my lead," Draco said, his voice low and calm. "One, two, three. One, two, three."

Farrah did her best to match his steps, her movements stiff and uncertain at first. But as they continued, she found herself slowly relaxing into the rhythm. Draco was a surprisingly patient teacher, his usual arrogance tempered by a genuine desire to help her.