F O R T Y - T W O
The New Year's Eve Gala

"Wow..." Fred wolf-whistled as I came down the stairs of the burrow.

I smirked, fluffing out the skirt part of my dress. Unlike many assumed, I bought a shorter dress—one that stopped just at the middle of my thigh. New Orleans really was the place to get fashion.

The dress was more modern in its style, essentially almost futuristic for the '90s, something someone would wear in my time.

It was beige with rhinestone spikes lining the waist cutting the top off from the skirt. Toward the bottom, dramatic ruffles flowed out giving it the fluffy impression.

Truthfully, it was a beautiful dress, but I also knew it would make me stick out amongst the crowd. Something we weren't going for.

Not even to mention the golden rhinestone spike encrusted stilettos.

"You realize the idea is to not be noticed?" Alastor Moody questioned with a heavy scowl.

I had met Alastor earlier that day. He was a skilled Auror, rough around the edges and yet still a great man.

"Mmm," I hummed bouncing off the last step, standing in between Fred and George who were both wearing impeccable black tuxedos. "Don't worry it's a masquerade no one will recognize us." I waved him off.

Out of the corner of my eye, I could see George tugging at his bow tie. It was apparent these fancy suits really weren't what the twins were used to wearing, nor what they liked to wear.

Though I would admit the suit made them look quite attractive. I wouldn't lie, the twins had a boyish charm about them that no doubt made them a heartthrob at Hogwarts. I'll bet if Fred's girlfriend Angela saw him, she wouldn't be able to keep her hands off him.

"Are you kidding me, right now?" Alastor threw his hands up in exasperation. "Do you take the Dark Lord and his followers as fools? One little mask is not going to hide your identity very well!" He shouted, myself shrugging while handing Fred and George the masks I bought for them.

George took his with raised brows, the twins masks were identical except for the fact that George's was white while Fred's was black.

"I guess we'll just need to remain under the radar then." I clicked my tongue, tying my own golden mask around my face.

Alike to the dress, the mask was gorgeous with beautiful swirls and intricate designs. It was also slightly flashy, it would be all the much harder to slide under the radar with how I was dressed.

Fred snorted motioning to my outfit. "Good luck with that dress and mask. You're like a walking sign reading 'look at me!" I lightly hit Fred's shoulder shaking my head.

"Oh well, I was born to stand out!" I dramatically flailed my arms, Alastor pinching the bridge of his nose.

"You're not tonight, the Dark Lord absolutely cannot see you and if he does he can't know it's you or we lose all tactic of surprise." The Auror grumbled, giving us pointed looks.

Standing there in their masks, the twins would only be recognizable if the person who saw them was very familiar. Luckily, the New Years Gala was only having dark wizards and witches, so they shouldn't recognize the Weasley twins all that well.

"Oh!" We all turned to see Molly coming out of the kitchen her hands covering her mouth. "My boys, you don't have to do this!" The red-haired mother whimpered, pulling both Fred and George into a strong hug causing them to gasp in pain.

Fred awkwardly patted her back with a tight smile. "We want to mother." He groaned, Molly not realizing she was crushing.

"Mum..." George flailed in her grasp. "We sort of need to breathe!"

With a roll of her eyes, Molly let them go causing both to begin breathing dramatically. Turning to me, she smiled softly taking me in a much gentler hug.

"I want you to stay safe too, and if you will, please keep my two idiot sons safe." I laughed at her words, Fred and George both making faces of offense.

Sirius chuckled from the doorway, Arthur clasping his sons on the back.

"Will do, Molly. Will do." She released me with a smile, nodding her head.

With a breath, I handed both Sirius and Arthur a nod before Alastor directed our attention to him.

"Listen up you three, the idea was to go unnoticed, but considering our friend here..." He shook his head motioning to me. "Has decided to wear the most flashy getup possible, that is going to be a bit harder to achieve. All you need to do is stay away from the Dark Lord, he'll recognize Pandora in a heartbeat if he gets his eyes on you all long enough. All you're doing is getting a head count on the amount Death Eaters that show up, that'll give us an idea on how many people the Order is going to need to be recruiting heavily. Don't stay to mingle or party, you get in, get the count, and you're all out, understand?" We nodded at his commanding tone, Alastor grumbling to himself leaning against his walking stick.

Arthur suddenly peaked up, stepping beside Alastor. "Also, stay away from the Malfoy's. Draco an Lucius will no doubt recognize you two." He pointed to the twins, receiving identical nods in return.

"Hold on, how are we getting there? Apparition?" Fred asked, Alastor shaking his head.

"No, powerful wizards and witches can follow you through apparition. We're not risking it in case something goes wrong and you need a hasty escape. You'll be getting there by-" I cut Alastor off, by raising my hand with a smile.

"Me. I can get us in and our in half the time apparition would take and we can't be tracked. It's the safest option." I explained, George smirking almost suggestively.

Over the past couple of days, George and Fred were rather flirtatious when they were around the Burrow. For Fred, it was more in a playful manner, but I had a feeling for George it may have been more.

However, he knew Tom was my soul-bounder and I think it put him off a little bit. Though it didn't change the fact that when they weren't working their shop, they were at the Burrow, an occurrence that apparently didn't happen a lot, but Molly was pleased with.

"I which case, better not waste any more time," Alastor grunted, both twins holding out their arms for me to take.

Using both my arms to link with the twins, I winked. No words were spoken as I teleported us out of the burrow, golden hues dotting out vision before the three of us appeared before a rather large manor.

Wizards and witches dressed in dark fashions walked up the steps and were scattered along the front yard speaking. Our appearance turned a few heads, but luckily not too many noticed.

"That was possibly the smoothest teleportation I've ever had." Fred murmured in George's ear, George nodding along with him.

It was night outside, the darkness covering the already haunted looking house in a cover of darkness. I cringed imagining growing up inside those doors, no wonder Abaraxas was so despondent.

Don't get me wrong, the manor was huge and nice, but it was just so... dark. It gave off eery vibes, like a hundred ghost resided inside. The perfect place for the Death Eaters to have one of their headquarters.

"Shall we boys?" I asked Fred and George, looking at the manor with distaste as well.

It was the complete opposite from the homey and loving walls of the Burrow.

"Yep..." George started, Fred, finishing it off. "Let's do this thing."

Together the three of us walked linked in the arms inside the great house. Inside was amazing, the design was obviously put together magically by the frost sticking across the ceilings and walls.

Alastor was right, every single witch in here was wearing long dresses of dark colors. Thick boas alined woman's necks and curling jewelry adorned their bodies.

"Champagne?" Our attention was brought to a waiter who stood holding a tray of champagne glasses.

"Don't mind if I do..." Fred took a glass from him downing a third of it before George swiped it out of his brother's hands drinking another third.

Shrugging, I took the glass from George drinking the rest of the champagne. Handing the empty glass back to the waiter who nodded before moving onto the next guest, I faced Fred and George.

Fred was scowling at George and me for stealing his drink, myself waving him off. Pulling the twins next to the wall, we conversed in whispers.

"Where do you think Tom is? I don't want to make the mistake of running into him." We all looked around, George shrugging.

"If I had to guess, probably in the area labeled V.I.P..." Fred and I both followed George's gaze, landing on a curtain covered room that was separated from the large ballroom we were currently in.

Two brooding Death Eaters stood outside the V.I.P, hands clasped behind their backs and eyes sharp on the people who entered. Fred and George scowled when we all saw the wizards pulling the curtains aside, allowing a darkly dressed Bellatrix Lestrange within. George was right, my chest felt as if it was tugging me toward that area, Tom was definitely inside.

If I already felt it, I knew it wouldn't be long before felt it. He probably wouldn't realize what exactly it was, but I had no doubt he'd be curious enough to follow wherever his instincts were telling him to go.

"Stay away from that area then, let's split up. Moody was right, the quicker we're out of here, the better. All we want is a count." The twins nodded, for once being serious about this mission.

Fred was the first to leave, George grabbing my wrist before I could spin away. "Be careful, alright." I smiled at his words, nodding.

Slowly, he let go of my wrist, the stilettos clicking as I walked through the party.

"Would you touch me so I can tell my friends I've been touched by an angel!" I turned around wide-eyed seeing George's snickering form along with the eyes of about a dozen witches and wizards.

Despite the blush creeping up on my cheeks, I couldn't contain my smile shaking my head as I walked away from George. Ridding myself of my thoughts, I aimlessly began counting, growing worried at the number I saw.

If Tom had this many at his disposal and this wasn't even including everyone, what did that mean for the order? Tilting my head around the area, my eyes quickly picked up on a figure walking out of the V.I.P. area.

Glaring platinum blond locks with an expensive dark suit. This dude was definitely a Malfoy, though he looked not much younger than me. Probably sixteen or seventeen.

It was the Malfoy boy Dumbledore was speaking about; Draco Malfoy. Curiosity got the better than me, and rather than counting my already large number I was making my way toward Draco Malfoy was walking toward the stairs at a rapid pace.

Something about him struck me, he was different than Abraxas was. No in the sense that he seemed more kind, but rather he seemed less dark. Maybe he was mean, but he didn't exactly hit me as the kind that was trying to kill people, he didn't seem like a Death Eater.

Because of his rapid pace, he didn't notice me approaching from the side giving me the perfect opportunity. I let out a false squeal as I pretended to accidentally run into him, Draco looking startled, stopped.

Twisting my legs dramatically, my hands shot out as I pretended to trip over myself falling to the ground. Surprise engulfed me when Draco actually caught me, pulling me upright.

I met the grey of Draco's gaze with wide eyes, shocked he caught me instead of letting me fall to the ground. Abraxas not only would have let me fall, but he would have taken it one step further by either pushing me or kicking me.

"I'm sorry, I didn't see you." I put on a false flustered appearance, Draco shrugging.

Immediately, I noticed something I hadn't been able to from afar. He was tired. Draco Malfoy looked utterly tired and worn out, something no teenage boy should look like. Purple bags resided under his eyes, a melancholy gaze hidden deep within the depths of his grey pools.

"It's fine..." Worry actually spun within me at his tone, he didn't sound upset. Was this actually a relative of Abraxas Malfoy I was speaking to, it couldn't be, there was no way Abraxas could produce anyone who was less than his level of pig-headedness. "It's really my fault, I should have watched where I was walking." He made sure I was steady before releasing my shoulders and taking a step back.

Smiling, and wanting to see if I was actually talking to a Malfoy, I held out my hand. "Rhiannon Lightly, how do you do?" I nearly cackled at the name, knowing if Draco were to bring it up to the Dark Lord he'd go insane.

Carefully, as if not expecting me to be that kind, he grasped my hand shaking it. I didn't blame his caution, we were surrounded in a room full of the nastiest sort of people. "Draco Malfoy, pleasure is all mine." He smiled tiredly, looking happy at the fact that he had a break from all the chaos.

Letting go of his hand, I popped my hip out. "How old are you, Draco?"

Draco scratched the back of his head, a small blush creeping up on his cheeks. "Sixteen." He said as if embarrassed, clearing his throat. "One year away from being a seventh year at Hogwarts. What about you?"

Licking my lips, I smirked. "Eighteen, graduated from Ilvermorny last year." I explained, Draco's face dropping but still looking hopeful when I told him my thoughts.

Curiosity over Draco's expression consumed me, and I decided to read the surface of his mind.

A real friend?

That was what I picked up, my heart nearly stopping. This poor boy was probably surrounded by the worst sort of friends, he was being deprived of a true friend.

"Ilvermorny?" Draco let out a small chuckle. "I've heard of it, but never actually met anyone who attended. What was it like?"

Not knowing how to reply, I decided to finesse an answer. "Like any other school, I suppose. Same crappy teachers and classes, asshole students, you know the usual." Draco laughed loudly at my words, his face lighting up as he did so.

It was obvious he didn't laugh much, but he had a nice laugh. His face lit up in happiness and it was almost contagious the way he smiled.

"I actually haven't heard that one before, you're so American..." I shrugged, laughing at his words, puffing out my chest proudly.

"Born and raised in Brooklyn, ever been?" Draco nodded at my words, a small smile left on his lips.

"Once, when I was seven. My father had business to attend, the city was amazing. I think I may need to go back sometime soon." I smirked at his words, raising my brows.

"Whenever you do, get in contact with me. I could show you all the best places to go..." I trailed off with a smile, Draco leaning against the staircase railing obviously forgetting wherever it was he was heading before I intercepted him.

"Definitely, maybe even take me shopping. Out of everyone here, it would appear you have the best fashion." He eyed my shorter dress that was much more colorful than anyone else's clothing.

"Obviously," I rose a brow when Draco reached over taking a strand of pink hair within his fingers.

Quickly, I noticed that unlike most of the people in here. Draco wasn't wearing a mask. I wonder why?

"Are you a Metamorphmagus?" He questioned, my head tilting at his tone.

"Nope, just thought pink would look good." He laughed at my answer, nodding his head.

"Well, you thought right. Stands out..." He dropped the strand, taking a step back. "Now, since I won't be able to recognize you from your face, I'll be able to recognize you from your hair. Wild, curly, and pink." I laughed at his words, Draco laughing as well.

My ear perked when I heard a song being played. It wasn't necessarily a muggle nor wizarding song, it was a Christmas song that fell between that labeling. So far, I had only heard wizarding music which I was unfamiliar with, this song was the first I was familiar with.

Mainly because it was a great Christmas song.

"Hark, how the bells,
sweet silver bells,
all seem to say, throw
cares away..."

By Draco's expression, he seemed to recognize the song too. "Christmas music, on New Year's Eve?" It was only after he uttered those words, that my world stopped.

It hit me then and there, why the date was so familiar. Tom's birthday was New Year's Eve. It was Tom's birthday, the Gala was probably not only to gather his followers but also his birthday. My eyes wandered to the V.I.P. section when I realized that was probably where the party part was being held.

Gulping, I looked to Draco with a smile. "Draco, would you like to dance? I truly do love this song." Draco shrugged, linking my arms with his with a smile.

"Sure." We walked to the dance floor, Draco placing his hands modestly on my waist, my own hands gripping his neck as we spun around.

Draco was a great dancer, knowing the proper way to waltz. I knew how to waltz, but I followed after him, Draco raising a brow as our movements seemed to flow together nicely. It was odd, Draco seemed so nice and yet I'd heard not the nicest things about him.

Perhaps if he wasn't assuming I was some rich pure-blood supremacist from America it'd be different.

The short dress spun with me around Draco, my eyes boring into his curiously.

"Do you work for the Dark Lord directly?" I made it a point to call Tom the Dark Lord.

Draco sighed, but put up a tight smile. It was obvious he didn't like this topic much, and for obvious reasons, he couldn't show his distaste.

"Yeah, my family is one of his oldest followers." He had trouble speaking the words, almost like they were poison to his mouth. "I even got the dark mark, it's amazing." He was lying through his teeth, it taking everything in me to not burst out in laughter at his tone.

Nodding his head, I decided to drop the subject. The two of us remained in friendly chatter about the differences between London and New York for the remainder of the song, Draco ending it by spinning me away.

My heart seemed to jump out of my throat when I saw someone who I hadn't seen in a while walking out of the V.I.P. section coolly.

Jet-black hair that was slightly longer than before was combed in neat waves atop his head, his skin still pale as ever. The already Tom Riddle had grown from when I last saw him a few more inches, his legs long. The glaring ice irises looked around the Gala curiously, almost appreciating the way so many people had shown up for him.

As far as I had known Tom, there was never a time had Hogwarts he necessarily looked like a boy. But now, Tom had hit the edge of his puberty and was an extremely handsome young-looking man. However, we all knew that Tom was in no way young, he was in his seventies with an elixir that both slowed his aging and Horcruxes that made him immortal.

Age was just number, especially when the said person looked hot as ever. This version of him was way better than no nose snake face.

A deep midnight black tuxedo adorned Tom's form, the dark wizard holding a glass of champagne in his arms as his eyes scanned the crowd. I knew he had begun to felt it, the pull toward me. He was curious and looking for the cause of his feelings, not to mention he was an unbelievable clever person. It wouldn't take him long to work out the details, and I was determined not to be here when he figured it out.

The entire ball game of the Wizarding war was about to change once Tom figured out that I was actually in his time.

Draco followed my gaze, eyes widening slightly when he saw who I was looking at. "That's odd, the Dark Lord said he wouldn't be leaving the V.I.P. section until the very end of tonight. I wonder why he's out now." I knew why he was out, Tom wasn't moving from the threshold of the V.I.P. entrance.

He was simply scanning his surroundings, looking for the cause of the feeling in his chest.

Pulling away from Draco, I gave a believable smile. "I; unfortunately, need to go. As much as I admire the Dark Lord, I'm also very frightened of him, I'm good with helping from afar." Draco looked sad at my departure, myself seeing the Weasley twins both waiting with scowls at the edge of the dance floor, their gazes flashing between me and Tom who hadn't yet noticed me anxiously.

Yep, it was time to go.

Dang it, I didn't even get to try the dessert yet. I shook my head at my own ridiculous thoughts, smirking at Draco.

"Get in contact with me next time you go to New York. I'll make sure you have a good time." Draco smiled at that, nodding his head.

"Will do, Rhiannon. It was great meeting you." I gave him a thumbs up, walking backward.

"You too, Draco. And also..." I looked to Tom whose gaze was slowly scanning the dance floor. "Tell the Dark Lord I said happy birthday." Draco's eyebrows furrowed.

"What? How did you know-" I cut him off with a wink, disappearing into the mass of wizards and witches.

Tom's eyes landed on Draco a second too late for I was already feet away from him. Draco looked flabbergasted, his eyes moving over to the Dark Lord who watched him in confusion. Tom had noticed the expression on the Malfoy boy's face.

I watched as Tom polished off the rest of his champagne, handing the glass to one of the waiters before making his way to Draco no doubt to investigate. Ripping my gaze away from Tom, knowing that within the next five minutes everything would click into place, I stood in between the twins linking our arms once more.

The second Draco dropped the name Rhiannon Lightly, Tom would go insane, probably putting the Gala on lockdown. Maybe it sounded conceded, but Tom was a possessive person, and he wanted me just as I wanted him.

Once he knows I'm in his time, he'll be sending out Death Eaters to take me to him.

"Did you get the count?" I asked the twins, both nodding their heads keeping their gaze on Tom apprehensively.

"Let's get out of here," George mumbled, Fred, nodding in agreement.

With one last look to Tom who was now in a conversation with Draco, I watched Draco turn his head making eye contact with me in confusion. Allowing my eyes to glow gold, something which was visible through the mask, I winked.

Horror made its way on Draco's face, Tom seeing this look beginning to follow his gaze. Before Tom and I made eye contact, I teleported the Weasley's and I back to the Burrow.