Swallow your pride

Christmas party

Sebastian POV

Sebastian followed Ominis into the Gaunt family manor, his eyes widening as he took in the grandeur and opulence. He felt a mixture of awe and unease, knowing the family he was about to meet.
He stuck close to Ominis, his nerves growing.
He looked around, surveying Ominis's home as they stepped inside.
"Nice place," he commented quietly.
Ominis nodded, acknowledging Sebastian's comment. He led Sebastian further into the luxurious residence, his hand gliding over the furniture with practiced ease.
"It's a lot grander than what I think is necessary," he admitted, his voice betraying a hint of discomfort. "My father's taste is... opulent, to say the least."
Sebastian walked alongside Ominis, taking in the luxurious surroundings. He ran a hand over a table, noticing the expensive materials and intricate carvings.
He glanced at Ominis, noting the hint of discomfort in his voice, and suppressed a scoff. "Yeah, 'opulent' is one way to put it," he muttered. "It's like a museum or a bloody palace in here."
Ominis chuckle at Sebastian's comment.
"You're spot on," he said. He reached out and placed a comforting hand on Sebastian's shoulder. "Let's get ready for the stupid party." he sighed. Sebastian felt a wave of relief at the touch of Ominis's hand. He sighed, knowing they couldn't delay this party any longer. "Alright, let's do it. Let's just hope your father doesn't give us a hard time."

Ominis smiled reassuringly,
"Don't worry," he said, leading Sebastian towards a guest room. "My father is more preoccupied with showing off his wealth and status than worrying about us. Just don't do anything to draw his attention, and we'll be fine." Ominis pushed open a door. Sebastian followed Ominis into the guest room, his eyes widening at the sight of the luxurious space. He let out a soft whistle as he surveyed the room, his gaze flicking to the king-sized bed and then to the adjacent bathroom.
"Bloody hell, your dad must really want to impress his guests," he commented, a hint of sarcasm in his voice.
Ominis chuckled,"You could say that," he agreed. "This will be your room for the duration of the party. You can freshen up here."
Sebastian nodded, appreciating the privacy the room afforded him. "Thanks, Ominis. I'll just get myself ready." He watched as Ominis left the room, closing the door behind him. Sebastian took a deep breath, trying to steady his nerves for the upcoming event. He knew it would likely be a long night.

Sebastian stepped out of the bathroom, having taken a quick shower. He noticed the suit laid out on the bed and approached it, running his fingers over the fine fabric. He picked up the suit, inspecting it closely. "Bloody hell, Ominis's dad really spares no expense," he muttered under his breath. After getting dressed, Sebastian took a few moments to check his appearance in the mirror. He ran his fingers through his hair, trying to tame his unruly locks, but they stubbornly refused to cooperate.
"Damn it," he mumbled, messing with his hair some more. "Why does my hair never behave when it counts?"

A house elf appeared in the room, "If Mr. Sallow is ready, he can join the company for the party. Mr. Ominis will join you later, he has a meeting with the house master now." he informed him and disappeared again.
Sebastian raised an eyebrow at the mention of Ominis's meeting but quickly pushed that thought aside.
Straightening his suit, he gave himself a final once-over in the mirror and took a deep breath. "Well, here goes nothing," he muttered, before making his way down to the party.
Sebastian made his way down the stairs, his eyes widening as he took in the swarm of people that had filled the previously empty space. He had known the party would be lavish, but he hadn't expected such a massive turnout. His eyes scanned the room, taking in the extravagant decorations, the expensive outfits, and the chatter of the guests. He felt strangely out of place amidst all this wealth and status.
Sebastian accepted the glass of champagne from the waiter's offered tray. The golden liquid glittered in the light, and he could feel the stares of a few people in the room as he swirled it around in the glass.
He took a small sip, letting the bitter-sweet taste of the champagne dance on his tongue. He felt a slight buzz as the alcohol hit his system.