DUMBW 07

Chapter 7

Dance Partner at the Ball
Bookmark

The academy’s grandest event — the Founding Anniversary Ball.
It was a dazzling night that drew high-ranking nobles and influential figures, serving as both a celebration and a social gathering.

But for me, it was nothing short of hell.

“It’s tradition for students to attend with a teacher or guardian escort,”
they explained during the event briefing — and the moment I heard it, I had a very bad feeling.

And sure enough—

“Your escort will be me♡ Looking forward to it!”

The one who cheerfully extended his hand… was that flamboyant teacher.

“Wh–what’s there to look forward to?!”
“Well, we’re engaged, aren’t we? It’s only natural, right?”

Around us, students began whispering, “Wait… engaged?”
My face burned so red that I couldn’t even muster the strength to deny it.

The night of the ball.

Under the glittering chandeliers, the orchestra played, and colorful dresses swirled across the dance floor.
I was forced by my mother into a sapphire-blue gown, though I’d secretly wrapped my chest with a sarashi for easier movement — or so I told myself.

“Oh my♡ You look so much more beautiful than usual, my lady.”
“Ugh…!”

I stared at the teacher’s outstretched hand, my heart giving an awkward, startled jump.

His tone might have been playful, but the earnest look in his eyes as he took my hand—
for some reason, I couldn’t pull away.

As the next song began, I was led onto the dance floor.
Normally, I was confident in noble dance etiquette, yet tonight my feet felt unsteady.

“Just leave the lead to me♡”

He moved with effortless grace, and I struggled to keep up.
Before I knew it, our eyes met… and the distance between us closed.

“H-how are you this good?!”
“Controlling magic and following rhythm are the same, darling♡ It’s not about forcing power—it’s about harmony.”

His words brushed against my ear, and my chest grew warm.
…There it was again.
Even when I wanted to be annoyed, he always said something undeniably right.

The music ended, and applause filled the hall.
I quickly pulled my hand away and tried to steady my breath.

“I—it’s not like I enjoyed that or anything!”
“Fufu♡ Then you won’t mind dancing the next one too, right?”

“Wh—who would?!”

Blushing furiously, I yelled back, while Saphir-sensei laughed in delight.
And that smile—
for just a moment—made my chest flutter in a way I’d never admit to anyone.