Till the lights flickered out, we dance with the moon, then I'd just fade into you

-Sam Palladio & Clare Bowen

~~~

Early in the month of October, late on a Friday night inside the Gryffindor Common Room, a laid-back birthday party for a student with many friends was being held. Ariana Cove, a smart, kind, and beautiful soul had a knack for bringing people from different social circles (and houses) together.

Everyone enjoyed the proud Gryffindor's company, even a decent amount of her Slytherin peers couldn't ignore the infectious smile she bestowed upon everyone.

Yes, she had many friends, but her best friend by far was a sweet Hufflepuff, whom she had met on the train to Hogwarts their very first year. Michaela Peralta And Ariana Cove discovered they were akin to appear as long-lost sisters, their personalities being very much alike.

Both girls were extremely empathetic towards creatures of all species, shared a hilarious sense of humor and a love of romance novels, pop music and super hero comics. Their differences, though, made them unique. Ariana was a blonde haired, light blue eyed beauty. Tall but graceful. Very athletic which helped her become a chaser for her house quidditch team. She was confident and bold which made her an excellent addition to the Gryffindor's, but also modest, kind and loyal enough to have almost been placed in Hufflepuff along side her best friend. Almost.

Michaela had long, dark auburn curls with sea green eyes. She stood a little shorter than her friend, at only 5'2. Though not as athletic or graceful as her confidant, she was blessed with charming curves and a desirable figure.

Even though her looks made her alluring to men and women alike, she was somewhat oblivious to the effect she had on people.

Her personality was perfectly suited for Hufflepuff. She cared for her friends and family, and has on many occasions put others needs before her own. Her great love for animals just about matched the intensity of the Hogwarts gamekeeper, Hagrid.

But by far one of the most interesting things about her was that, even though she was going to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry in Scotland, she was actually an American. Once her family learned she was in fact a witch at the age of 9, (the magic being passed down from her father who was out of the picture) her great aunt Charlotte demanded that she come live with her in London so she could attend the school her father had grown up at.

Moving at such a young age to another country, and having eyes on her whenever she spoke because of her slightly southern American accent, caused her to be more shy and less talkative to those around her. In school, she had a very small group of friends, but was still highly regarded and accepted as she was close to Ariana. She was only vocal around her friends, and very rarely spoke up unless called upon or talked to by her professors and fellow peers.

That being said, attending large social gatherings was low on her list of enjoyable activities. She would much rather be curled up on the comfy chair in the corner of the Hufflepuff common room next to the fireplace, with her favorite fuzzy blanket and a cup of coffee, along with a good book. But having been enlisted to plan a birthday party for her closest friend, she was obligated to go. But she would do anything for Ariana, so she could bear a few hours just for her. Sneaking 12 other non Gryffindor's into the Gryffindor's common area had been a feat. But having previously researched a strong silencing spell to drown out the noise from the music and laughter, and successfully convinced a 7th year to sneak in a couple crates of fire whiskey and other beers, the party went off without a hitch. 30 minutes in and everyone was already slightly buzzed and having a good time. Ariana was radiantly happy which only helped Michaela enjoy the party with more ease. Ari's favorite treats and a large cake was presented at the beginning of the festivities and purple balloons and streamers were decorated throughout the cozy room.

~~~

"Michaela, you know you're the best, right?!" Ariana squealed with happiness. "I can't believe you and Tess pulled this off. I don't think anyone will be able to top this party. All of my closest friends are here. I love you!"

"I'm still pinching myself. I'm surprised with how smoothly the planning went to be honest." I chuckled and hugged my best friend. "It's like it was fate or something."

"Well, nevertheless, I'm excited. The music and food are amazing too! I love this mix. It has all of our favorite songs. And if anyone had any doubt of there being an American present at Hogwarts, there's proof now. I don't think this music has been released around here yet." Ari mentioned. "Yeah, that's true," I said while laughing and taking a sip of my drink. "I have a pretty sweet hook up. My brother sent me a care package recently of some new albums that were just released back home."

"Oooooo, speaking of handsome Lucian, do I get to spend Christmas break with you and your family this year? My parents have to go to a mandatory work retreat in Australia. I so do not want to spend my holidays in the heat. The snow in Tennessee would be much more preferable."

"Well, of course. Mom already offered last night in her letter but I haven't had a chance to mention it." I said with a smile. "But don't be expecting a lot of snow. We might get a dusting but it's normally just rain and ice this time of year. It's much more scenic here at school I think. Also, keep the googly eyes to a minimum around my brother this Christmas, please? I'd like to be able to hold down food that entire week, thank you very much." I said jokingly.

"I solemnly swear to TRY to keep my eyes to myself. It's not my fault your family genes are fantastic." She playfully smacked my butt and gave me a wink. "Ari! Dude, people already think we're into each other. That didn't help!" I almost fell out of my chair with laughter. That only added to Ariana's amusement. "Wow, this fire whiskey is definitely legit. Hey! Maybe tonight we'll both meet some new love interests that are worthy of breaking up our rumored relationship?" Each girl stared at one another for a beat before dissolving into a fit of giggles.

Our loud laughter helped catch the eye of another one of Ariana's crushes, a cute Ravenclaw guy named Ryan, who made his way over to us. "Hey Ari, happy Sweet 16. I was wondering if you wanted to dance with me?" He said with a blush on his cheeks. The music was playing one of her favorite tunes, and she nodded and took his hand. Before making it to the middle of the room with a few other dancing couples, she threw an excited look back my way and mouthed the words, "holy shit!"

I grinned widely and gave an exaggerated fist pump to show my support. Suddenly feeling a little awkward from being alone, noticing my few other friends were busy, I decided to go get a refreshing beer to counter the fire whiskey which was making me feel a little too warm. I enjoyed the feeling in my stomach but I didn't want to become too drunk. I knew that could cause a number of unwanted problems at a party and I wanted to keep a level head.. to an extent. It being our 6th year, studying was becoming more stressful and I also realized I needed to let go and relax a little as well. My goal was to be a little less anxious and more.. adventurous in my last two years at Hogwarts.

After grabbing a beer I walked around the room until I came to a corner that held an antique floor length mirror. I quickly checked my reflection to see if anything was out of place. My long hair was loose tonight, the natural curls flowing free and a little wild, but in a good way. I felt better with my hair down. I dressed up a little more since it was a special occasion. My make up was done and I had on a cute muggle outfit. A tight fit lavender sweater that showed off my shoulders kept me warm, and I paired it with a short, black, plaid skirt that came down to mid thigh. Long thigh high black socks with a little lace on the top that was hidden but almost visible when my skirt moved and a pair of heeled boots completed my outfit. My black choker and silver moon pendant and earrings added a little to the look. I loved fashion, clothing being a way to express myself. It made me stand out a little sometimes because what's popular in the states and in the muggle world isn't normally kept up with in the wizarding world. After adjusting my socks, I decided to walk and take a seat on the stairs that would lead up to the dormitories. It was out of the way but I could still see everyone else having fun while I sipped my drink and relaxed a bit. Little did I know, I was being watched from across the room..

~~~