This is Just Pretend

[Cassander Howard]

Cassander usually preferred to attend these types of events alone so he could walk around and see what he could get up to, but this year he had a new idea. He had decided to ask Kira to the ball as her date because it seemed obvious she liked him, and he liked the attention she gave him. He knew he would never actually date her, but stringing her along was fun for now and it didn't hurt to at least enjoy her company for the time being. She wasn't so bad even if he liked to pretend she was in front of her to give her a hard time. Cass donned a black tie with a gold accent knot which he thought made his classic black suit stand out just a little more. He even smeared some eyeliner under his eyes, not caring what others would think, because he knew ultimately it would make him look good and get others attention. He and Kira were in different houses so he had asked her to meet him at the entrance of the Great Hall, where he stood now with his hands behind his back, patiently waiting for her.
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[Kira Wolf]

Kira had been more than a little shocked when Cassander had invited her to be his date to the Yule Ball. She had accepted, of course, writing home to Tyra almost immediately to tell her. Her older sister had not disappointed, sending a dress for the ball in a matter of days. She had also sent specific instructions on how Kira could do her hair and makeup to match the dress. It had taken her a bit and she was running late, much to her embarrassment. She hurried as fast as she could in the silly heels Tyra had sent her.

She spotted Cassander and slowed, trying not to look nervous. She had never been on a date before, and she didn't want to make a fool of herself. She was still surprised he had even asked. Kira had been sure that Cassander had much higher standards. She walked up to him, her heart pounding. "Hi," She greeted breathlessly. "Sorry to keep you waiting."

 

[Cassander Howard]

Cass should've known he would have to wait a little while for girls to get ready and for one small fraction of a second he wondered whether Kira would stand him up, or maybe just chicken out? But as he saw more and more couples going in together, he turned and finally saw her approaching. He grinned at the sight of her, not used to seeing her so dressed up. She seemed to have gone all out with her hair done as well and Cassander chuckled as she greeted him. "Hello," he replied, "It's okay, the wait was worth it, you look great!" he complimented her eagerly. He pulled out a white rose from behind his back and said, "This is for you," with a charming smile.
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