Harmony

All three of the girls stare at you, waiting for your answer. The atmosphere of the room feels heavier than it did moments ago and you are afraid you may be turning red at having been backed into a corner.

"I was thinking of asking Harmony." You finally tell them.

Audry raises an eyebrow, clearly skeptical of your answer.

"Oh, the adorable Ashcroft girl?" Briana's mouth twists into a grin while she glances at the dark-haired girl. "I told you the rumors were true, dear Audry."

"Just because he says it, doesn't make it true." Audry dismisses the House Senior.

"I have to agree with Audry. His feelings are not a reflection of hers." Rosette joins in with confidence, her previously shy nature seemingly melted away.

"The two of you doubt both our darling Ice Queen's cruel indifference and her validity as a lady. If the Ashcroft girl wasn't interested, the sweet boy wouldn't believe he had a chance. The only reason he would think as much is if that cold heart of hers was shown to warm." Briana, convinced of her logic, sips her tea.

"Well, has her heart warmed to you?" Audry looks to you, her dispassionate manner makes the question feel impersonal.

"It's hard to say." You admit. "Sometimes, but currently she seems upset with me."

"Aw, you poor thing." Briana's voice is thick with sympathy. "Spurned by the very object of your affection."

"He hasn't even said why he thinks she might consider it. Maybe, he's attracted to commanding women." Rosette stands, placing her hands on the table to lean towards you. Her eyes narrow with judgment as she slightly tilts her head to look down at you. "Is that what you like? Women, that challenge you?"

You are taken aback by the surprising shift in the white-haired girl's nature. Only moments ago her exquisite features added to her sweet character but now they enhance an overall directness. Your brow furrows as you prepare yourself for a confrontation.

"Don't mind her, darling. Rosette is just jealous and wishes you all to herself." Briana laughs, breaking the tension. "But she does raise an interesting question. Why do you think Miss. Ashcroft has taken to you?"

Rosette takes her seat and her face returns to its softer appearance. A flirtatious smirk mixed with a hint of craving in her eyes makes you question if there is any truth to the blond senior's teasing.

"She stopped by my room the other night. Then invited me back to hers. It's little things, here and there." You begin to explain, not wishing to say too much.

"Being invited back to a girl's room usually isn't a little thing, dear." Briana smiles suggestively.

"I'm still not convinced." Audry states.

"Look, I appreciate the tea but I really need to get going." You tell them, standing from your chair.

"Please don't go. We're all having such a wonderful time." Briana pleads, extending a hand across the table.

"I still have flyers to put out." You tell the House Pegasus Senior, ready to move on.

"Allow me to show you out." Rosette rises from her own seat with a smile. Entwining her arm in yours, she walks you to the door.

"It was lovely chatting with you, darling. Please come see us again sometime." Briana says as you go.

Rosette opens the door and the two of you exit the tower. Now alone under the afternoon sun, she continues to walk with you across the courtyard.

"Don't be too upset with us, we only like to keep up with the school's current events." She tells you. Her original sweet tone had returned, despite dropping the shy act. "If things don't work out with the Ashcroft girl, you know where to find me." She leans in to whisper in your ear, her soft lips brushing against your cheek "I think it could be mutually beneficial for the both of us."

You pause for a moment, thinking about what she could mean. "I'll think about it." You say hesitantly, looking into her blue eyes.

You turn to enter the school and leave the white tower behind. With only one stop left, the girls of House Pegasus took up more of your time than you had wanted. It's a little past noon but the Common Dining Hall should still be serving lunch if you hurry.