Golden Strings

Elara had always thought of herself as a homebody. She preferred the comfort of her cozy apartment and the scent of old books over extravagant events. But, life had a funny way of pushing people out of their comfort zones.

"You have to come, Elara! It's a once in a lifetime event!" Sienna insisted, dramatically clutching Elara's arm as they walked across campus.

Theo, who had been walking beside them, laughed. "You say that about every social gathering."

Sienna huffed. "This is different. It's not just any party. It's a charity gala. Important people will be there and the whole department is invited! Professor Langford personally requested our attendance."

Elara's eyebrows shot up. "Professor Langford? Since when does he care about us attending social events?"

Sienna smirked. "Since our department is co-hosting it. It's an opportunity, Elara! Free food, good music, and maybe... some romance?" She wiggled her eyebrows suggestively, flicking her gaze between Elara and Theo.

Theo rolled his eyes. "Don't start."

Elara laughed, but deep down, she felt uneasy. A gala meant dressing up, making small talk with strangers, and worst of all, the chance of making a fool of herself in front of Theo. But, it also meant spending time with him outside of their usual routine. Maybe... it wouldn't be so bad.

++++++++++

The night of the gala arrived faster than Elara expected. She stood in front of her mirror, smoothing out the fabric of her dress. Sienna had practically forced her into it, claiming it was "the perfect blend of classy and stunning." Elara wasn't sure about that, but she had to admit, it wasn't terrible.

A knock on her door startled her. "Ready?" Theo's voice came from the other side.

She took a deep breath and opened the door.

Theo stood there, dressed in a well-fitted suit, looking unfairly handsome. For a moment, they just stared at each other.

"Wow," Theo finally said. "You clean up well."

Elara laughed, trying to ignore the warmth spreading to her cheeks. "You don't look too bad yourself."

++++++++++

The gala was a blur of elegant decorations, clinking glasses, and soft music playing in the background. Elara stuck close to Theo and their friends, trying to avoid unnecessary conversations with people she barely knew.

"This is actually nice," Theo admitted as they stood by the refreshments table. "Not as boring as I expected."

Elara chuckled. "I'm just here for the food."

Before Theo could respond, a familiar voice called out. "Theo! Elara! There you are!"

It was Callie, one of their classmates, looking slightly tired. "Professor Langford wants to introduce us to some of the benefactors. He said it's a good networking opportunity."

Elara groaned. "Networking. My worst nightmare."

Theo smirked. "Come on, let's get this over with."

As they made their way through the crowd, Elara felt Theo's hand brush against hers. It was a brief touch, but it sent her heart racing. Maybe, just maybe, this gala wasn't such a bad idea after all.