Veil of Ophelias

CHAPTER 5 : A hell of a party

The Harrington common room was a hive of activity, students buzzing around as they set up for the night's celebration. Strings of lights draped across the ceiling, colorful banners announcing the evening's festivities fluttered as the doors swung open and closed with the constant flow of people.

"Are we good on the music?" one student asked, fiddling with a speaker. His voice cracked with excitement.

"Relax, it's all set. We've got everything from classic hits to whatever the girls are into these days," another chimed in, adjusting the playlist on his phone. "Trust me, I've got this covered."

"Hope so," the first guy muttered, looking around nervously. "This party is bigger than usual."

A brunette with a sharp bob rolled her eyes. "Chill, we've done this before. Besides, James won't let it flop. You know he's the mastermind behind all this, right?"

As if on cue, James entered the room, his commanding presence immediately drawing attention. Dressed in his usual effortless style—a black button-down shirt and jeans—he looked every bit the natural leader.

"Everything in place?" James asked, his voice calm but firm as he surveyed the scene.

"Just about, boss. We've got the drinks, music, and snacks all sorted."

"Good. And the guest list?" James pressed.

"Wide open," the brunette replied with a smirk. "Everyone knows about it by now. Though we're definitely putting the spotlight on the girls first—they deserve it."

"Perfect. Let's make this night one they won't forget," James said, his lips curling into a satisfied smile. He clapped the guy on the back, signaling his approval.

Meanwhile, across campus in their dorm room, the girls were in the midst of their own preparations. The room was alive with the sound of giggling, light chatter, and the faint hum of a curling iron.

"Alyssa, pass me the lip gloss, would you?" Elizabeth asked, eyes focused on her reflection in the mirror.

"Here you go," Alyssa said, tossing it to her effortlessly before checking her own outfit in the full-length mirror. "You think this dress is too much? I don't want to overshadow the celebration or anything."

"Nah, you look perfect," Grace said, lounging on the bed, half-dressed but in no hurry. She grinned mischievously, adding, "And it wouldn't hurt if James notices, you know."

Alyssa raised an eyebrow, teasing. "Ah, so that's your game tonight?"

Grace rolled her eyes. "Please. I'm just saying you guys seem solide these days"

Alyssa shrugged, a soft smile on her lips. "He's been good. I think we're in a really nice place. But tonight isn't about us—let's focus on the party."

Liz, that dress is killer," Zoe said, glancing over as Elizabeth slipped on her heels. "I swear Daniel's going to propose tonight if he has any sense."

Elizabeth laughed, a slight blush rising to her cheeks. "You think? I mean, we've been together forever, but he's always so... calculated. I'm not holding my breath."

"You should," Alyssa teased, while pulling her hair into an elegant updo. "It's been what, seven years? If I were you, I'd start hinting at wedding venues."

Grace smirked. "Or just tell him outright. If anyone's due for a ring, it's you, Liz."

"what's holding him back ?" Zoe quipped, crossing her arms. " Seven years is way too long. They're practically married already, and with both of them rolling in money? There's no reason to wait."