Chapter 2: Rehearsals and Performances
The rehearsals went far more smoothly than last year's, since almost everyone had been in the previous show and was thus more experienced. Harry didn't exactly like playing the stupid sidekick, and therefore having to work so closely with Malfoy, but Ron made it up to his best mate by gloating over the fact that - like last year - he got to kill the blonde-haired git. Hermione adored getting to dance with her boyfriend, and sing with him.
At last, performances arrived. Hermione's favorite part always came at the end, when the Beast transformed into the Prince. As soon as the special effects were over, she eagerly awaited and enthusiastically participated in the passionate kiss that she and Ron shared. Her real-life lover's gentle touch was enough to make her swoon. For the finale, Ron and Hermione got to dance together to the title song.
The show was a huge hit, selling out almost immediately. Like Sleeping Beauty before it, Beauty and the Beast had to add on performances. The Golden Trio had another marvelous time and before they knew it were wondering what next spring's musical would be.
