DELGADO || Sebastian Sallow (Hogwarts Legacy)

Part 32 - Gowns and Courts

ꕀꕥ〡~𐀔~〡ꕥꕀ

❝ Your smile, you look like you're about to fall in love with me❞

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The gala had officially begun.

As the grand doors of the Gaunt Manor opened, a wave of elegantly dressed guests streamed in, their invitations in hand. Those without one were swiftly turned away by the security guards, some leaving quietly, others arguing until they were escorted out.

Inside, the guests shed their coats at the wardrobe exchange before stepping into the ballroom, their voices filling the space as they admired the extravagant decorations and lavish spread of delicacies.

I stood beside Marvolo, positioned on his left, with Ominis at my right. His parents stood next to him, greeting each guest with poised smiles and firm handshakes.

I felt like a fraud.

Eyes lingered on me, whispers buzzing behind painted lips as people took me in with curiosity—or judgment. My spine stiffened, my hands clasped in front of me, trying to appear composed.

Every time Mr. Gaunt introduced me with "That young woman is Marvolo's partner," I flinched internally.

A warm hand suddenly pressed against my lower back, pulling me slightly into an embrace. Marvolo's lips brushed my temple as he whispered, "Smile, princess. Everyone is watching you."

Then, he turned his attention back to the group, his expression effortlessly charming.

I forced a smile, but my mind was elsewhere.

After my meeting with Sebastian, I hadn't had time to speak to Marvolo about what I had learned. I wanted to tell him it was all a misunderstanding—that I never intended to be courted in this way. I just wanted to be his girlfriend, not his future wife.

But instead, I had been pulled into a last-minute lesson from his father on etiquette, guests' names, and the importance of making a good impression. He had shown me pictures of high-profile attendees, drilling their names into my memory.

Ominis had tried to intervene, insisting I should be allowed to enjoy my first event without pressure. But Mr. Gaunt dismissed him. He was certain I could handle it.

I glanced at the grand clock. It was nearly 8 PM.

Time for the ceremonial first dance.

Marvolo would dance with me, Mr. Gaunt with his wife, and Ominis with Anne. Everyone knew Anne was Ominis's best friend—not his partner. So why couldn't I be given the same consideration?

Not every couple needed marriage to be valid. My parents never married, yet their love had been just as real.

The guests continued filing in, handing off their coats and making their way toward the Gaunts out of respect. Their dresses shimmered under the chandeliers, their tailored suits undoubtedly worth more than my entire closet. Polite conversation and laughter filled the hall.

But my focus shifted elsewhere.

To someone else.

At the wardrobe stood the Sallow twins, arm in arm, waiting for their turn to enter.

Anne wore a stunning emerald gown that perfectly matched Ominis's tie and waistcoat. But it was Sebastian who stole my breath.

I had never seen him in formalwear before.

And, Merlin, he looked good.

The black suit hugged his frame in all the right places, highlighting every sharp angle of his body. Polished patent shoes, fitted trousers, a tight black belt—every detail was precise. His waistcoat and buttoned-up black blouse contrasted with the deep emerald tie at his throat. His jacket was neatly tailored, a silver watch chain peeking from his pocket.