In third-year halls, their paths first crossed,
A Raven boy, a Blonde girl lost.
"Stay out of my way," she warned with a glare,
But something lingered in the frosty air.
Crimson with his scar and fame,
Emerald with her secrets untamed.
Two worlds ap...
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The night of Slughorn's Christmas party had arrived, and the air was electric with festivity and excitement. Aria stood before the mirror in her dormitory, adjusting the final details of her dress—a stunning, form-fitting white number that clung to her curves in all the right places. The dress was elegant yet bold, with puffed sleeves that added a touch of vintage charm, buttons running down the front, and a tasteful slit that hinted at a daring side. The smooth fabric shimmered subtly under the dim lighting, making her look ethereal and sophisticated.
Theo arrived to escort her, looking sharp in his dress robes, but he couldn't help the slight hesitation in his expression as he caught sight of her. "You look... incredible," he said, his voice filled with quiet awe.
"Thanks," Aria responded, offering him a small smile, though her mind was already spinning. She wasn't going with Theo to enjoy the night—she was going to be seen. Specifically, she wanted Harry to see her.
They arrived at the party, stepping into the lavishly decorated room where Hogwarts students and Slughorn's numerous important guests mingled. The room was bathed in soft, golden light, the tables adorned with enchanted snowflakes that floated lazily above, and an orchestra played a charming melody in the background.
As they entered, Aria immediately felt the eyes of several people on her, but there was only one gaze she was searching for. And sure enough, across the room, standing with Luna Lovegood by his side, was Harry. Their eyes met, and for a brief, heart-stopping moment, it felt like the world had fallen away.
Harry was staring at her—his green eyes wide, and the expression on his face was one of barely concealed shock. He looked as though he couldn't tear his gaze away, but Aria refused to let her heart soften. She tore her eyes from his and smiled at Theo, linking her arm through his.
She had expected Harry to bring someone to the party, and though she didn't know who, seeing Luna Lovegood standing next to him still stung. Luna was dressed in her usual eccentric style, looking carefree and whimsical. The sight of Harry with someone else, even if it was just Luna, stirred something bitter in the pit of her stomach.
Theo, sensing the tension, gently steered her further into the crowd, where they were soon greeted by Professor Slughorn himself. The potions master beamed when he saw her, his round face lighting up as he took in her appearance.
"Miss Hilton!" Slughorn exclaimed, his booming voice drawing the attention of several nearby guests. "Absolutely radiant tonight! Ah, but where is Mr. Potter? I thought for certain you two would arrive together."
Aria's smile faltered for just a moment before she forced it back into place. "Harry and I... had an argument," she said simply, hoping to avoid further probing.
