human again / hp.

Chapter 68

A few days after the First Task, I was halfway through breakfast in the Great Hall when a regal black owl swooped down, drawing more than a few glances as it glided toward me. The bird landed gracefully in front of me, dropping a neatly wrapped parcel and a folded note bearing the unmistakable Malfoy family crest.

I hesitated, glancing around to see if anyone was watching, then I made my way to the Common Room. I carefully untied the parcel and peeled back the layers of elegant silver wrapping.

Inside was a dress that took my breath away.

It was a masterpiece of simplicity and elegance, embodying the Malfoy family's refined taste. The fabric was a rich, shimmering silver, smooth as water and catching the light with every subtle movement. The bodice was sleek and structured, with a high neckline that swept into a subtle curve, framing the collarbones. The back dipped low, though not scandalously so, held together by a delicate crisscross of silver threads.

The skirt was a study in contrast—soft and flowing, made from layers of gossamer-thin silk that shifted between shades of silver and icy blue, like moonlight reflecting on snow. A slit ran discreetly up one side, adding just a touch of daring to the otherwise modest design.

Accompanying the dress were a pair of sheer, elbow-length gloves and a silver belt, designed to cinch the waist and add a sleek finish. At the very bottom of the box was a thin, intricately woven chain of platinum, meant to be worn around the neck or threaded through the hair.

It was beautiful. It was cold. It was Malfoy.

With trembling hands, I unfolded the note, expecting my father's clipped tone. Instead, I saw my mother's elegant handwriting.

My Dearest Celeste,
I trust you're enjoying the tournament and that your studies are progressing well. Enclosed is a dress I had commissioned for the Yule Ball, an event I'm certain you will make the most of. Your father and I are proud of the way you represent our family at Hogwarts, and I hope this gown will help you shine on this special occasion.

Remember, my dear, that elegance and grace are your finest allies. Take this opportunity to also enjoy yourself.

With all my love,
Mother

I read the letter twice, feeling a mix of warmth and unease. My mother's affection was always layered beneath reminders of who I was expected to be. Yet this letter felt different, almost like an unspoken permission to let go, if only for one evening.

"Wow, that's stunning," said a voice behind me. I turned to see Parvati Patil leaning over my shoulder, her eyes wide with admiration.

I gave her a polite smile and murmured a thank-you before excusing myself.

I carefully placed the dress back in its box and tucked it under my bed before heading out to meet Daphne. We'd arranged to meet by the lake, where the Durmstrang ship loomed in the distance.

Daphne was already there when I arrived, her expression unusually animated. "Finally!" She greeted me with an excited grin, her green eyes sparkling.

"Well?" she said, her eyes bright with anticipation. "Let's see it!"

I opened the box, then I carefully unfolded the dress and held it up for her to see. Her jaw dropped, and she reached out to touch the shimmering fabric.

"Celeste, this is stunning! Merlin's beard, you're going to outshine everyone at the ball," she said, her voice filled with genuine admiration.

I smiled, though my cheeks warmed under her praise. "Thanks. My mother sent it. I think she's more excited about the ball than I am."