Closed High Stakes

[Louis Alcott]

Louis was feeling pretty nervous about tonight. He had acted like asking someone out for a date was no big deal, but in truth it was kind of scary. Celia hadn't said yes immediately, which just made him want to impress her more. He didn't want her to regret saying yes and think he was boring. He had put on a suit and a tie, hoping that they were fancy enough for Celia's taste. He leaned against the wall next to the entrance to the Great Hall, waiting for her to arrive. He tried to look casual and relaxed, but he was fidgeting with his sleeve, showing his nerves.

 

[Celia Vu]

It was difficult being a romantic and a cynic. Thanks to her love of romcoms and penchant for grand daydreams, Celia had spent the hour before the ball trying to quash the flutter of anticipation in her stomach. She had to remind herself that life — or her life to be more specific — never lived up to fanciful Hollywood stories. In the past three years, she had watched her parents' marriage fall apart and the universe completely upend her life. She wanted to believe in happily ever afters, but experience told her those didn't exist.

It was better, then, to go into this date with no expectations. After one last glance in the mirror to check her hair and makeup, Celia made her way up to the ground floor. The corridor was flooded with people, and she stood back as she looked for Louis. She finally spotted him next to the entrance to the Great Hall, on time and properly dressed. That was a good start. Celia broke away from the crowd and made her way over to him. "Hey," she said, giving him a small smile. "You look nice."

 

[Louis Alcott]

There was a small part of Louis that was starting to wonder if Celia had stood him up, when he finally spotted her to his relief. He realized he had been a bit early, as he doubted Celia was late. He grinned at the sight of her, taking her in for a moment. His grin widened at her compliment. "Thanks. You look great." He told her. "White suits you." He had no idea if the color was what suited her, he just knew it looked nice. But a compliment never hurt. He offered Celia his arm, feeling silently thrilled that she was really here, going with him. He hoped Caleb was jealous of him having a date, especially someone as cool as Celia. "Let's go in." He said eagerly. "I bet there are good snacks."

 

[Celia Vu]

Celia's smile widened as he admired her outfit and returned the compliment. "Thanks, I thought white would fit the weather outside and the theme." It was a bit strange being so cordial to Louis; she was much more used to throwing sarcastic remarks his way. But she figured she should at least be nice to him tonight. Celia took his arm and followed him into the Great Hall, her breath catching in her throat when she saw the decorations. Gone were the orange skies and fireflies, and in their place was gently falling snow — the sight of which made Celia homesick. "I guess they decided to go back to real Christmas weather," she commented, barely able to tear her gaze away from the snow as they made their way to the snack tables.