Beneath The Crimson Gaze

The announcement of the annual school dance had created a buzz of excitement at Arbordale High. Posters adorned the corridors, students whispered about their outfits, and Alishia found herself swept up in the excitement. For the first time in years, she felt genuinely excited about a school event. But her enthusiasm wasn't just about the dance — it was about the challenge she'd set for herself.

She was determined to get Arthur to attend.

Arthur, however, was less than thrilled when Alishia brought it up. "A school dance?" he said, arching a skeptical eyebrow as they sat in the small park near their apartment complex. "Not really my scene."

Alishia crossed her arms, fixing him with a determined look. "You said you wanted to step out of your comfort zone, remember? This is the perfect opportunity."

Arthur sighed, running a hand through his snowy white hair. "I don't know. I'm not exactly a 'dance' person."

"You don't have to dance," she countered. "Just come and experience it. You might even enjoy yourself."

Arthur's crimson eyes narrowed, studying her. "And I suppose you're not going to let this go?"

"Not a chance."

He chuckled softly, shaking his head. "Fine. But don't expect me to show up in some tacky suit."

The evening of the dance arrived faster than either of them expected. True to her word, Alishia helped Arthur prepare. She'd insisted on picking out his outfit, dragging him to a boutique downtown the day before.

The result was nothing short of transformative. Arthur wore a tailored black suit with a deep crimson tie that complemented his eyes. His hair, usually left to fall naturally, was neatly styled, framing his sharp features. A sleek black mask added a touch of mystery, completing his look.

When Alishia saw him step out of his apartment, her breath caught in her throat. "Arthur…" she began, her voice barely above a whisper.

"What?" he asked, adjusting his cuffs nervously.

"You look…" She paused, searching for the right word. "Incredible."

Arthur's cheeks flushed faintly, though he quickly looked away. "You're exaggerating."

"I'm not," she insisted, smiling. "No one's going to recognize you."

The gymnasium had been transformed into a glittering wonderland. Strings of fairy lights hung from the ceiling, and the floor sparkled with golden confetti. Students milled about in their finest attire, laughter and music filling the air.

When Arthur and Alishia entered, all eyes turned to them.

Or rather, to him.

Arthur's presence was magnetic. The way he carried himself, the quiet confidence in his stride, and his striking appearance left everyone wondering who the mysterious boy was. Whispered speculations rippled through the crowd.

"Is he new?"

"I've never seen him before."

"Do you think he's someone's date?"

Alishia couldn't help but smile as she led Arthur further into the gym. "I told you no one would recognize you," she whispered.

Arthur smirked, his crimson eyes glinting behind the mask. "I feel like I'm undercover."

"Just enjoy it," she said, nudging him toward the refreshment table.

It wasn't long before Luke spotted them. His sharp eyes immediately locked onto Arthur, narrowing suspiciously as he approached.

"Alright," Luke said, crossing his arms as he came to a stop in front of them. "Who are you, and what have you done with Arthur Virelith?"

Arthur chuckled, the sound drawing even more attention. "Nice to see you too, Luke."

The realization hit Luke like a freight train. His jaw dropped, and he pointed an accusatory finger. "No. Freaking. Way."

Arthur shrugged nonchalantly. "Way."

Luke's reaction caused a stir among the nearby students. Conversations halted, heads turned, and a wave of recognition swept through the crowd.

"Wait… that's Arthur?"

"No way. It can't be."

"It is! Look at his eyes!"

Within moments, Arthur became the center of attention. Students crowded around, bombarding him with questions and compliments.

"You look amazing!"

"Why don't you dress like this all the time?"

"Are you really Arthur Virelith?"

Arthur handled it with surprising grace, his usual awkwardness replaced by an easy confidence that left even Alishia impressed.

Luke, ever the joker, leaned closer to Arthur and whispered, "Dude, you're like a completely different person. It's actually kind of terrifying."

Arthur smirked. "Maybe I've been hiding in plain sight all along."

As the night wore on, Arthur found himself relaxing. He even allowed Alishia to drag him onto the dance floor for a slow song.

"You're not half bad," she teased as they swayed to the music.

"Thanks," he said, his voice soft. "For making me come."

Alishia smiled, her blue eyes meeting his. "I told you it'd be worth it."

For a moment, the rest of the world faded away. It was just the two of them, moving in perfect harmony, the music a distant echo.

And in that moment, Arthur realized something.

He didn't feel like an outsider anymore.