Third Person's POV.
The grand ballroom was alive with music, laughter, and the clinking of glasses as the night carried on, shimmering with the glow of fairy lights and the flickering candles on every surface. The three families—Potters, Moores, and Diggs—moved through the evening with effortless grace, their conversations weaving seamlessly amidst the lively crowd. The atmosphere was a perfect blend of elegance and warmth, each guest basking in the joy of celebrating Daphne's milestone.
From the corner of the room, Mr. Potter leaned against the wall, watching his daughter with a proud smile. Mrs. Potter caught his eye and gave a soft nod, knowing she shared his feelings—this was a night to remember. Meanwhile, Penelope and Cole were spinning around on the dance floor, their laughter ringing out as they twirled to a lively tune. Percy, on the other hand, seemed a little more subdued, leaning against a side table in the corner, eyes distant and tired-looking.
Daphne, noticing Percy's quiet demeanor, excused herself from a group of well-wishers and made her way across the room. She had always known Percy wasn't one for grand parties or loud gatherings—he preferred quiet moments, the kind that felt more intimate and genuine. As she approached, she saw him standing there, gazing into his glass of champagne, seemingly lost in thought.
"Hey, Percy," Daphne said softly, her voice gentle but warm. She hesitated for a moment before adding, "You look like you could use a break."
Percy looked up, blinking a little as if surprised to see her. "Yeah," he replied simply, his voice a little hoarse. "It's been a long night."
Daphne nodded, stepping beside him. "I get it. These parties can be overwhelming sometimes. I just wanted to check on you." She hesitated briefly, then added, "You seem kind of tired. Do you want to step out for a bit?"
Percy shrugged. "Sure," he said, his answers short, but there was a hint of appreciation in his voice.
They stepped into the terrace, away from the crowds, where the soft glow of lanterns cast a cozy ambiance. Daphne took a deep breath, gathering her courage. She'd been thinking about this moment all evening, the one she'd been waiting for—she wanted to tell Percy how she truly felt.
But just as she opened her mouth to speak, a familiar voice interrupted them.
"There you are, Percy! I've been looking all over for you," Cole's voice rang out, cheerful but with a hint of urgency. He stepped into the quiet corner, glancing between the two of them. "Mind if I borrow him for a bit? We need to do some guy stuff."
Daphne nodded quickly, trying to hide her disappointment. "Go ahead," she said softly, stepping back. "You guys do what you need to do."
Percy offered her a brief, apologetic smile before heading off with Cole. Daphne watched them walk away, her mind swirling with a mixture of fear and uncertainty.
Left alone, she stood in the quiet corner, feeling a bit lost. Her heart fluttered with the desire to say more, to confess everything, but she knew this was just a moment in time—something she could hold onto and perhaps revisit later.
Just as she was about to turn back into the party, she felt a gentle tap on her shoulder. Turning around, she found Penelope standing there, her expression soft and understanding.
"Hey," she said gently. "I saw you talking to Percy. Did you tell him?"
Daphne hesitated, then shook her head. "No, I couldn't. I was too nervous. I think I just… I don't know if I'm ready yet."
Penelope wrapped an arm around her shoulders, offering comfort. "There will be other opportunities. Trust me, everything will work out like it's supposed to."
Daphne took a deep breath, "Thanks, Pen."
"Come on," Penelope said softly. "Let's get back to the party. There's still plenty of fun left for the night."
Daphne nodded, feeling a bit steadier with her friend's reassurance. Together, they turned back toward the bustling party, their steps lightening as they rejoined the lively crowd.
As they made their way back into the heart of the celebration, Daphne's mind still replayed the moment with Percy. Her heart was still fluttering, but now with a little more hope. For the first time since she started liking Percy, she almost told him how she felt. There would be more chances for her to confess her feelings to Percy; she just needs to find the right time.