Crimson || Tom Riddle [1]

𝖙𝖜𝖊𝖓𝖙𝖞 𝖊𝖎𝖌𝖍𝖙

Arabella and Tom entered the Great Hall together, not with a grand flourish, but with a presence that demanded attention nonetheless.

The hall was decorated in a dazzling array of winter-themed ornaments: snowflakes enchanted to float mid-air, icicles twinkling like diamonds, and a towering Christmas tree adorned with golden lights. The students and faculty of Hogwarts were dressed in their finest, mingling and enjoying the festive atmosphere.

Arabella, in her stunning white gown, looked ethereal, her every movement graceful and poised. Tom, in his crimson suit, exuded a quiet confidence, his dark eyes scanning the room with calculated precision. Together, they were a vision of sophistication.

They made their way to the refreshments table, the crowd parting like the Red Sea to let them pass, a wave of whispers trailing behind them. It was a power move, a display of their control and influence over the room.

Professor Slughorn, ever the social butterfly, quickly made his way over to them. "Ah, Tom, Arabella! What a pleasant surprise to see you two together," he exclaimed, a twinkle in his eye. "It's been a while since I've seen you both in the same vicinity. Are things... better now?"

Tom's expression remained impassive as he reached for a goblet of spiced mead. "We are on good terms, Professor," he replied smoothly.

Slughorn leaned in, lowering his voice conspiratorially. "And, dare I ask... You know I wouldn't normally pry, but you two do make such a striking pair. I can't help but notice the way you work together in class. Or, used to, I guess. It is remarkable, really. So, might there be... something more between you two?" His words trailed off, his curiosity barely masked by his jovial demeanour.

Arabella arched an eyebrow, a playful smile tugging at her lips. "Why, Professor, whatever do you mean by that?"

Slughorn fumbled slightly, his cheeks reddening. "Well, it's just that... I mean, it's no secret that... such a good pair, you know, and seeing you both... one might think that perhaps there's..."

Tom cut in. "There's nothing more to it, Professor. We are just partners... friends, you could say."

Slughorn looked momentarily taken aback but quickly recovered, nodding vigorously. "Of course, of course. Just my overactive imagination, I'm sure. It's wonderful to see you both here, nonetheless."

With that, Slughorn excused himself, leaving Arabella and Tom alone once more.

As they stood by the refreshments table, the music changed to a slow, enchanting waltz and Colette Swan suddenly approached, her eyes fixed on Tom. She wore a dark red gown which tightly hugged her body. Arabella found it amusing — it seemed Colette had been attempting to outshine her by wearing Arabella's signature colour. She had failed miserably.

Colette slipped between Arabella and Tom, almost dismissing Arabella entirely.

"Tom, there you are!" Colette's voice was bright as she sidled up to him, her hand lightly touching his arm. "I've been looking for you all evening. You simply must save me a dance."