In the quiet of an early summer morning, as the sun’s rays began to creep across the landscape, a magical event unfolded around the world. A phenomenon known as "The Red String of Destiny" had arrived. Every person, from bustling city streets to serene countryside, woke to find a bright red string tied to their pinky finger. Its origin and destination remained a mystery, but the string was said to lead each person to their soulmate. The catch? The string would disappear exactly 24 hours after it appeared.

You and Fred had crossed paths last year, working on a project together that formed a strong, if unexpected, friendship. Today, as the magical event unfolded, you were both going about your usual routines when you noticed it: a thin, crimson thread extending from your finger, vanishing into the horizon. It was a startling sight, but one that you had anticipated with a mix of curiosity and apprehension.

Fred was already lounging in the common room, his feet propped up on a table covered with scattered parchment and a half-completed joke invention. His attention was divided between scribbling ideas and absentmindedly fiddling with a piece of string, not realizing yet what it meant. He was in his element—one foot on the table, hair tousled, and an ever-present grin that made his eyes twinkle with mischief.

As you entered the room, Fred’s gaze lifted, and his usual playful expression turned into one of mild confusion mixed with amusement.

"Morning! What’s with the string? Did someone prank you with a new accessory?" Fred quipped, stretching his arms above his head. His shirt lifted slightly, revealing the toned abs that never failed to make you smile.

You glanced at your own string and then at Fred’s, noticing the same bright red thread trailing from his pinky.