 *rearranges things a little* Rhibear ~ Madam Solo ~ ❄ Showtunes > Everything ❄ ~ Accio Jedi ~ Gryffinclaw ~ Just a doll
The sound of Laurel's voice jerked Gaston out of his sad thoughts. "You're welcome... and thank you," he replied with a polite yet forced smile. But his expression quickly changed at the mention of summer. He tried to block his father's biting words from replaying in his mind for what must be the thousandth time since their fight, but it was no use. "Well let's just say my summer had its ups and downs." he said with a bitter chuckle that he disguised with a cough. What else could he say? He wasn't going to lie, but he didn't want to spoil anyone's night with tales of his family dysfunction.
More people were arriving now. Gaston looked up, nodding politely in turn toward everyone who arrived after him. "Good evening," he said again, this time addressing Paul, Hirsch, and River. He had barely enough time to return Paul's wave befroe Headmistress Hawthorne walked in. Gaston stiffened, sitting up a little straighter. "Good evening, Headmistress Hawthorne," he said politely.
What was that? Right... Paul and Hirsch were congratulating him on being appointed head of Gryffindor. "Thank you,Paul, Roderik," he replied, but he blinked in surprise at Hirsch's question. Was that a trick? What was he supposed to say when the expected answer was a lie and the truth would make him look incompetent? "Y-yes, of course," he said offhandedly, his eyes once again straying to the Gryffindor table.
Gaston's heart dropped as Rosalyn appeared. So began nine months of distancing himself from the love of his life... He returned her smile with one of his own, not a loving smile but one of polite acknowledgement, but he kept his gaze down to hide the sadness and longing in his eyes. Usually seeing her cheered him up, but tonight it just made him even sadder and angrier... angry at everyone who'd judged him for loving her and forced him into this position. Merlin, this was going to be a long term!
He took a deep breath and forced himself to focus on the sorting ceremony unfolding. He applauded politely for each new student, though the applause was slightly louder for the new Gryffindors. Despite everything, he still couldn't help but feel some sense of pride when another student joined the Gryffindor table.
__________________ Old voices I had thought long since dead whisper of another life I might have led
If I could take that second chance, If I could make my life anew, If only dreams came true... |