Trust in Her Tricks

Chapter 8: Halloween Surprise?

Halloween at Maplewood High was always a big deal. Students arrived in their most creative costumes, and the entire building was transformed with fake cobwebs, jack-o'-lanterns, and flickering LED candles lining the hallways. This year was no different—except for Ethan, who had a special plan.

Ethan stood nervously in front of his mirror at home, adjusting the final pieces of his outfit. The purple and black robes felt heavier than they looked, and the headpiece—an intricate replica of Xiao's mask—sat just right on his head. He had spent weeks preparing, piecing together different parts of the costume, and even practicing Xiao's signature poses. Today, he was going to surprise Eris by dressing up as her favorite Genshin Impact character, hoping it would make her smile and maybe even bring them closer together.

Arriving at school, Ethan quickly noticed his classmates' reactions. A few stared, some laughed, and others approached with wide eyes, exclaiming, "Ethan! That's awesome!" He grinned, hiding his nerves as he navigated through the crowd, looking for Eris.

He spotted her near the entrance to the gym, surrounded by friends. Her hair was tied up with icy blue ribbons that perfectly complemented the white and blue robe she wore. She had come as Shenhe, another Genshin Impact character—a perfect match for Xiao. Ethan's heart swelled; it felt like a sign.

"Eris!" he called out, trying to sound confident.

Eris turned, her eyes widening at the sight of Ethan in his Xiao costume. A stunned expression crossed her face before she broke into a broad smile. "Oh my god, Ethan! You're Xiao! I can't believe you actually did it!" She rushed over, her eyes sparkling with excitement.

Ethan grinned. "Well, you're always talking about him. I figured I'd bring him to life for you today," he replied, striking one of Xiao's battle poses.

Eris laughed, clapping her hands in delight. "You look amazing! Seriously, this is so cool." She moved closer, inspecting the details of his costume. "You even got the talisman right!"

He shrugged with a playful smile. "Had to do it justice. Can't have Xiao looking anything less than perfect, right?"

Before Ethan could say more, a familiar voice joined in. "Wow, Ethan. Xiao, huh? That's a bold choice."

Ethan turned to see Lucas, dressed in an elaborate Zhongli costume—another Genshin Impact character, known for his dignified demeanor and deep voice. The golden and black robes fit him well, and he held a tall prop staff, completing the look with ease. Ethan felt his stomach drop. Of course, Lucas had chosen a character from the same game.

"Zhongli!" Eris exclaimed, eyes widening. "Lucas, you look fantastic! Did you plan this?"

Lucas smiled, his gaze flicking between Ethan and Eris. "Not exactly, but it seems we're all on the same wavelength today," he said, his tone light. "Besides, it's fitting, right? Xiao and Zhongli... they're sort of like mentor and student."

Ethan forced a smile. "Yeah, fitting," he muttered, trying not to feel overshadowed.

Eris beamed at both of them. "I can't believe it! This is like a Genshin Impact dream come true. My two favorite characters!" She turned to Ethan with a playful grin. "So, Xiao, do I still get that dance?"

Ethan's heart lightened at her words. "Of course, Shenhe. Anything for you," he replied with a confident smile.

Lucas chuckled. "Hey, can Zhongli cut in later? I think I deserve a dance too," he said, his eyes lingering on Eris.

Eris laughed, a slight blush coloring her cheeks. "Sure, but only if you promise to behave," she teased.

The rest of the day flew by for Ethan. He felt a mix of excitement and nerves, the competition with Lucas adding a layer of tension. But he refused to back down.

That evening, the Halloween party filled the gym with costumed students, loud music, and colorful lights. Ethan watched as Eris and Lucas chatted near the snack table. When Eris caught sight of him, she waved him over.

"Xiao!" she called with a grin. "Come on, I owe you a dance, remember?"

Ethan moved through the crowd, his pulse racing. "Would you care to dance, Shenhe?" he asked, extending his hand with a mock-formal bow.

Eris giggled and took his hand. "I'd love to, Xiao."

As they danced, Ethan felt lighter than air. Eris seemed genuinely happy, her laughter infectious. She leaned in close, whispering with a smile, "Thanks for this, Ethan. You really made today special."

He smiled back, his heart racing. "Anything for you, Eris."

From the edge of the dance floor, Lucas watched them, his expression unreadable. Ethan knew he wasn't out of the woods yet—Lucas wasn't the type to give up easily. But for now, as he held Eris's hand and spun her around, everything else faded into the background. For tonight, at least, it was just the two of them.