Sacrificial Serpent {Tom Riddle}

twelve

The next morning, Tom and Lyla woke up feeling more refreshed and lively than they had in days. The weight of the previous weeks had lifted, replaced with a sense of calm and contentment after their long rest. The soft morning light streamed through the curtains, bathing the room in a warm glow as Lyla stretched lazily in Tom's arms, her body feeling wonderfully relaxed and at ease.

Tom was the first to stir, his eyes blinking open as he took in the sight of Lyla nestled against him, her hair spread out like a halo on the pillow. He couldn't help the smile that tugged at his lips as he watched her, his heart swelling with affection. But something else flickered in his eyes—a glimmer of excitement, as if he had been waiting for this very moment.

Suddenly, Tom pulled away from her, moving quickly as he rolled out of bed. Lyla, still half-asleep, looked at him with a confused expression as he hurriedly began dressing, throwing on his usual Slytherin uniform with the practiced ease of someone used to early mornings.

"Where are you going?" she mumbled, her voice thick with sleep as she sat up in bed, rubbing her eyes.

Tom paused for a moment, glancing back at her with a mischievous grin. He leaned down and planted a quick, soft kiss on her lips, leaving her even more puzzled.

"I've got something I need to take care of," he said cryptically, his eyes twinkling with that familiar spark of mischief. "I'll see you later, Lyla. I promise."

Before she could ask him any more questions, he was out the door, leaving her sitting there in bed, thoroughly confused and more than a little curious. Lyla sighed, shaking her head with a small smile. Tom was always full of surprises, and she had a feeling today was going to be no different.

She took her time getting ready, still pondering what Tom could be up to as she made her way back to her dorm. As she entered, she found Pansy already dressed and waiting, an enormous grin plastered on her face that immediately set off alarm bells in Lyla's mind.

"Morning, Lyla," Pansy greeted her, her tone dripping with an excitement that she didn't even bother to hide. Her eyes sparkled with the same knowing look that Tom had given her earlier, and Lyla couldn't help but raise an eyebrow in suspicion.

"What are you so happy about?" Lyla asked, narrowing her eyes as she studied her best friend.

"Oh, nothing," Pansy replied innocently, though the grin never left her face. "I just had a feeling today would be... special."

"Special?" Lyla repeated, tilting her head to the side. "Pansy, if you know something, you'd better tell me."

Pansy just laughed, shaking her head as she moved over to Lyla's wardrobe. "You'll find out soon enough. Now, let's get you dressed, shall we? I have the perfect outfit in mind."

Before Lyla could protest, Pansy was rifling through her clothes, pulling out a dress that was far more formal and elegant than what Lyla typically wore to class. It was a deep emerald green, the colour perfectly complementing Lyla's eyes. The dress was simple yet stunning, with delicate lace detailing around the neckline and sleeves, and a flowing skirt that brushed just above her knees.

"Pansy, this is way too fancy for class," Lyla protested, though she allowed Pansy to help her into the dress anyway.

"Nonsense," Pansy replied, her tone firm but playful. "Trust me, you'll want to look your best today. Now, let me do your hair."

Lyla sighed but relented, sitting down in front of the mirror as Pansy began to expertly style her hair. She couldn't help but feel a flutter of anticipation in her stomach, her mind racing with possibilities. What on earth was going on today?