/
/
The final days leading up to Christmas Eve were busy, to say the least, not only for Harry, as the preparations for George and Angelina's wedding and Christmas culminated.
Harry spent his days at the Burrow, and his nights at Andromeda's, always with his godson in tow.
Hermione and Ron also found themselves quite split between the Burrow and an additional location, Hermione with her parents, and Ron at the joke shop, trying to keep up with the wave of last-minute holiday shoppers.
Along with every Weasley staying in the house, including Percy, Charlie, Bill, and Fleur, Luna and Neville also stopped by the Burrow each day to assist where they could.
Needless to say, the Weasley household was a flurry of activity, comings and goings, and some really spectacular magic, the highlight of which was a grand invisible marquee in the Weasleys' garden, impervious to the elements, that took everyone present in order to cast, to serve as the setting for the ceremony and reception.
Hermione was glad for all the activity, as it served as a much needed distraction. Even though Mrs. Weasley, much to Hermione's dismay, insisted on containing her activities to those that did not require the use of her legs, narrowing her duties to favor-making, flower decorating, and placard writing, Hermione had no trouble keeping busy.
In fact, when Harry was otherwise engaged, Hermione willingly took most of the responsibility of looking after Teddy while at the Burrow. Hermione hadn't ever really looked after a child before, but she found herself truly enjoying it, learning more about his personality and metamorphamagi abilities, watching him grow and change with each passing day.
Plus, staying busy to the point of exhaustion kept her out of her own mind, and helped her get a bit more sleep.
Harry felt much the same, finding himself plummeting into bed at the end of each day.
Christmas Eve, the day of the wedding, dawned overcast, and still. A heavy snow had fallen overnight, blanketing the Burrow and the surrounding landscape in white.
Packing his dress robes into a bag, Harry peered out his foggy window, and watched as a small flake drifted haphazardly, as if a piece of paper dancing through the air.
Looking around his room, he considered what else he might need. He saw the unopened photo album still on his desk, and shoved in unceremoniously into his bag.
After packing up Teddy's things, and Teddy himself, Harry apparated them both to the Burrow.
Not seconds after arriving, Angelina greeted him cheerfully, wrapped in a fuzzy white dressing gown.
"Harry! Oh, it's so good to see you!" Angelina hugged him.
"Hi Angelina, yeah-"
"Is that Harry?!" Harry heard another female voice call, followed by the sound of multiple hurried footsteps hurtling down the stairs.
It was Alicia Spinnet and Katie Bell, also dressed in similar fuzzy dressing gowns, though theirs were red. They hugged Harry quickly in greeting as well.
"And who is this handsome man?" Alicia cooed, taking Teddy from Harry's arms, which were still full of his and Teddy's things.
His three former Quidditch teammates then proceeded to act as if Harry no longer existed, directing all their attention on Teddy. Harry didn't mind.
Teddy's eyes were wide, and his hair began to change to match the color of Alicia's.
"Don't worry, Harry, they'll give him back… eventually," Ginny said, shuffling into the room and stifling a yawn. She was noticeably more disheveled than Angelina, Alicia, and Katie, but she was wearing the same fuzzy red robe.
Noticing Harry looking at the matching robes quizzically, she explained, "It's a bridesmaid thing, I guess."
"Oh, don't act like you don't love that robe," Katie Bell said, "you wasted no time putting it on when Angelina gave them to us this morning."
Ginny smirked, "Maybe."
"What, nothing for the men then?" Ron said with mock surprise, appearing with George by his side.
"I see no men here… oh, hey there Harry, I take that back," George joked.
Ron rolled his eyes.
"C'mon little brother, being in our wedding is gift enough," George grinned, "although I still don't see why we need anyone but us in our wedding," George directed his comment as his soon-to-be wife.
"Because it's fun. And here I was, thinking I was marrying George Weasley, not Percy Weasley," Angelina proclaimed, as everyone proceeded to laugh at George's expense, not that he was complaining.
He looked at Angelina not like she was the only one in the room, but the world.
"Breakfast, everyone!" Mrs. Weasley called from the kitchen, interrupting the moment.
Everyone clamored into the kitchen, and Harry saw that Katie and Alicia had Teddy giggling. He reverted to his typical appearance, now comfortable with his companions.
"He's so cute!" Katie exclaimed.
"He's all right," Harry joked, helping himself to some eggs.
"Eat up you lot, busy day ahead!"
George and Angelina sat close to one another, sharing the same plate.
Mrs. Weasley shook her head, "I still don't understand why you two couldn't wait until after the ceremony to see each other."
"We see each other every day!" Angelina informed.
"Yeah mum, you want me to give her the chance to run off… she's already talking about marrying Percy."
Angelina sputtered on a slice of bacon, and Mrs. Weasley scowled.
"Things are different now, mum," Ginny explained, laughing, "be happy we've all agreed to be in the wedding… even Percy."
This seemed to mollify her, and she was a flurry of activity again.
"Hermione coming later?" Harry asked over a bite of toast.
Ron nodded. "Yeah, with her parents."
Soon, the rest of the Weasleys joined them for breakfast, including Arthur, Percy, Charlie, Bill, and Fleur. It always surprised Harry how easily Mrs. Weasley was able to prepare enough food for such a large group.
Having finished his breakfast, and seeing that Teddy was still making the rounds from person to person at the table (he now rested in Fleur's arms), he and Ron retreated to his room to drop off his things.
On the way, they decided to get in a bit of Quidditch, before their absence was noted. Sneaking outdoors, brooms in hand, Harry asked Ron, "So you're in the wedding?"
Ron nodded, "Yeah, me, Bill, Charlie, Percy… Lee's best man," Ron chuckled, then turned somber.
"Would've been Fred, of course…"
Harry didn't know what to say. He figured there was nothing he, or anyone as a matter of fact, could say or do to ease the pain of Fred's absence, especially today.
Harry clapped Ron on the back and said, "Race you to Luna's."
This seemed to perk Ron up, and they were off, and back again in no time. As they neared the Burrow, they saw Ginny, Alicia, Katie, Angelina, and George joining them on brooms.
"Mum's going to kill you!" Ron called to George.
"Doubt it!" George called back, "Not after all the work she's done for this wedding."
"Oi!" A familiar voice called from below, and everyone looked down to see Lee Jordan racing to catch up, his hair bobbing wildly about his head, "Room for one more?!"
"'Bout time!" Ron called.
"Best man duties, y'know, had a speech to finish and all," Lee said as he rose to meet them mid-air.
"Good to see you, Harry, you our seeker today?"
"Same to you, Lee. Dunno, probably too rusty."
"Harry Potter, best seeker Hogwarts may have ever seen… rusty? Hold on… is that a Firebolt X Ginny's got? Ohh Potter, forget what I just said," Lee said quickly, then raced to get a closer look at Ginny's broom.
"Let's start!" Ron called, trying to gain everyone's attention, which was now fixed on his sister.
"Patience, little brother, patience… what, you have a wedding or something to get to? First Percy, now my baby brother… that woman," George joked, and flew to examine his little sister's broom as well.
"How'd she get one of those?" Ron asked, looking to Harry.
"Uh…" Harry debated telling Ron, but figured Ginny's secret was out now, "She got drafted. She asked me not to tell, but it looks like she's telling everyone now," Harry explained, thinking that Ginny's letter seemed like two years, not less than two months, ago.
"Drafted?!" Ron exclaimed.
"Yeah, the Holyhead Harpies. I guess they have a contract with Randolph Spudmore-"
"The guy who invented the Firebolt!?"
"Yeah…" Harry said tentatively, knowing what he was about to tell Ron might knock him off his broom, "and Ginny told Spudmore about me, I guess, and he said he'd fit me with one… a Firebolt X."
"But, but… those are only for professionals- ah whatever, Harry, that's fantastic. You'll let me have a go, right? Although it probably won't work right because they're specially fitted-"
"I wrote him and asked if you and George could have your own too."
Ron was silent, visibly holding his breath.
"He wrote back, said absolutely not, only for the Chosen One," Harry grinned at his own pathetic joke.
Ron was immediately put out. Harry was unsure how how his friend could've taken him seriously.
"Ron, you dolt, 'course he said you and George could have your own too!"
Ron's joy was palpable, "That's fantastic! Merry Christmas to me! When do we go?"
Harry laughed, "Not sure, gotta figure that out."
"How about tomorrow?" Ron asked, in all seriousness.
Harry only grinned, shook his head, and flew off to join the others, Ron barely taking a breath in between sentences.
The group wasn't long into their scrimmage when Molly arrived, beckoning them with some very colorful language from the ground below.
"Honestly, George, I wonder if you even want this wedding," Molly chastised as they made their way back toward the house.
"Now that you mention it, mum, I wanted to elope, but my dear Angie…"
"I wasn't going to let that happen!" Angelina informed.
"Well, thank Merlin you're marrying someone with more sense than you," Mrs. Weasley affirmed, beaming at Angelina.
"Doesn't take much, I'm afraid," Lee joked. George proceeded to swing at his best man with his broom.
The rest of the morning and early afternoon were spent in preparation. Mrs. Weasley had put Teddy down for a nap.
It wasn't long before Angelina's father and the Grangers arrived.
"Sorry we're a bit late," Hermione explained to Ron and Harry, placing wrapped Christmas gifts under the Weasleys' tree. She was dressed plainly, planning to get ready closer to the start of the ceremony.
Her parents were busy at work with Arthur and Angelina's father, outside in the invisible marquee, arranging ceremony programs and last minute decorations. A band and caterers were also busy at work.
"McGonagall came to my house. She… she offered me the position of Charms' professor," Hermione spoke as if she could not believe her own words.
Harry grinned. He'd forgotten that McGonagall mentioned she had a plan in store for his best friend. He never imagined it would be this, but hearing it now, it made perfect sense.
Hermione will be an amazing professor, Harry thought.
"What about Professor Flitwick?" Ron asked.
"He wants to retire in the next few years," Hermione explained.
Ron nodded, "S'pose he could. It's hard to tell how old he is."
"He wants to do more traveling," Hermione continued.
"Blimey," Ron said in shock, "That'd probably make you the youngest professor ever."
Harry was reminded of Voldemort, who, as Tom Riddle, had been denied a teaching position, in part for being too young.
"Actually, in 1558, Professor Fortinbras began as assistantship during her seventh year-"
"Okay, okay, how about the youngest in living memory. Better?" Ron chuckled.
Hermione ignored him. "I'd just be starting an assistantship, anyway, with Professor Flitwick. He's not ready to retire just yet. Doesn't mean I'd get the job in the end, either."
Ron scoffed and Harry rolled his eyes, shaking his head.
"Of course you will!" Ron exclaimed.
Harry considered maybe Hermione didn't want the job. He asked, "D'you want the job, Hermione?"
"Yes! At least I think so… I- I need to think it over."
"Ron!" The trio heard Lee Jordan call from upstairs. "Get your arse up here!"
Ron scowled, "Well, can we think it over later? I'm being summoned… bloody usher business. Harry, you should come too."
Suddenly, an explosion followed by raucous cheers emanated from upstairs.
Harry chuckled, "I think I'll pass for now…"
Even though he was reluctant to leave his friends, Ron made his way upstairs, suddenly more intrigued by his usher duties.
"We should get ready, too, Harry. I imagine guests will start to arrive soon."
"Right. But Hermione, I really think it's great… you being Charms' professor. I mean- you'll be great."
Hermione smiled, "Thanks. I can't believe McGonagall and Flitwick are even considering me… but I don't know if it's what I want. I mean, I've never had a job before. Most professors work for the Ministry first… get experience, you know?"
Harry considered Hermione's statement for a moment. Could the Ministry possibly provide experiences that were more preparatory than what they'd been through? Surely, he, Ron, and Hermione were not typical Hogwarts' graduates.
"Yeah, but, think of everything you've done and been through, Hermione. It's got to count for something. Plus, I'm sure you've thought about what you wanted to do after you graduated."
Hermione shrugged. "I did, a lot, before sixth year. But after that… I didn't really think about it anymore. I kind of figured-"
"We might not make it that far?" Harry finished.
Hermione nodded solemnly.
"Strange, huh?" Harry said. Hermione looked at him questioningly.
"We spent so much of our time at Hogwarts, and the last two years, just trying to make it through… but we never really let ourselves think about what we'd do after."
"I think you're right- I tried not to think about it" Hermione ventured shyly, but then it all came pouring out. "It hurt too much to think that we might not make it, all the things we would miss out on."
Harry nodded, and understood he'd done the same.
"It's okay now though, to think about those things. To want things for yourself."
Hermione looked at him, impressed with his insight.
"I should say the same to you, Harry, it's okay to want things for your own future and happiness."
"We need to be better at taking our own advice," Harry laughed, "we're pretty rubbish at it."
Hermione laughed too, as the Weasley family clock struck three.
"I've really got to get ready," Hermione said, realizing the time.
"Meet you back here? I think we're on our own for the ceremony," Harry explained, knowing that both Ron and Ginny were in the wedding party.
Hermione smiled and nodded, "I can get Teddy ready," she offered.
/
On his way to Ron's room, Harry poked his head into George's. There, he found George, his brothers (excluding Bill), and Lee already in their dress robes.
Percy was sitting sourly on George's bed, arms crossed tightly over his chest. Lee Jordan was down on one knee, as if preparing to be knighted, while George held a particularly intricate funnel, the end of which was safely secured by Lee's mouth, while Charlie merrily poured perhaps the largest bottle of Butterbeer Harry had ever seen directly into the mouth of the funnel.
Ron was nearby, cheering his comrades on.
George caught sight of Harry, and called, "Oi, finally, Harry! Get in here, you're next!"
"After me, you mean!" Ron called. "C'mon, Harry!"
"Lemme get my robes!" Harry said, and everyone in the room booed, even Lee, who then proceeded to choke on the Butterbeer now spilling from his mouth.
As Harry hurried into Ron's room to change, he heard another explosion, this time followed by clearly female cheers. Harry smirked, hoping Hermione was also joining in on the fun.
Although George and Aneglina's wedding hadn't technically started yet, Harry mused how different Fleur and Bill's wedding had been.
Different time, I guess, Harry shrugged. It had been a different time, before the war. After Bill and Fleur's wedding, Harry hadn't been too sure weddings were really his thing, but he found himself starting to reconsider.
As he hastily reached for his robes, Harry stumbled upon the photo album Dudley sent him. He held it in his hands for a moment, then placed it on the bed.
Later, he thought.
By the time Ron chugged a Butterbeer of his own via funnel, Harry rejoined the others, and he could see, out the window, wedding guests steadily arriving.
"Nearly time, boys," Bill said as he entered the room, cracking open a Butterbeer of his own and clapping George on the back.
"Anyone keep tabs on Angie? Still in the building I hope," George joked, but Harry could see he was a bit nervous.
"Better be, she can't miss out on my speech later," Lee said, attempting to straighten his robes in the mirror.
"Yeah, sure… that'll keep her around… a speech," George said sarcastically.
"She'd be crazy to leave," Charlie ventured.
"Or really sane," Ron said, "but then she'd be all wrong for you." Ron's comment made everyone, especially George, laugh. He put his arm around his brother in a rare display of affection.
"You've got some competition, Lee," George informed.
"And after all that Butterbeer I chugged, this is the thanks I get."
"I think we should head down now," Percy said, finally smiling, and rising from his seat.
"Now or never," George said, and led them all downstairs.
Harry and Ron followed behind.
"Hermione said she'd meet me here," Harry explained as he slowed to a stop by the Weasleys' Christmas tree.
"Thank, Merlin, Harry, don't let her sit next to Aunt Muriel… or anyone who looks like they could be related to me."
Harry laughed, and watched Ron head outside to join the others. Harry could hear the muffled din of guests outside, beginning to find their seats. The sun was beginning to set, dark and orange on the horizon, and the snow was picking up again, casting a clear blue glow over the Weasleys' garden.
Moments after Ron left, Hermione joined Harry, as promised, with Teddy in her arms. Andromeda had picked out a black onesie with a faux bowtie for the baby boy. He matched Harry's black dress robes quite well, not that Harry noticed.
He was looking at Hermione, who wore a long, navy blue dress, with a moderately low neckline, and a subtle slit up one side of the dress' skirt. Her sleeves were long and lacy. Her hair was curled and swept to one side.
"You look great, Hermione," Harry said truthfully, offering her his arm. "Hey there, Teddy, sleep well?" Harry asked the boy, tickling his side.
Hermione smiled, "Thanks, Harry, you do too… but not as good as this one," Hermione said, gesturing to Teddy, and tickling him as well.
The little boy squealed in merriment.
"I'm just happy I can go as myself this time," Harry said, referring to Bill and Fleur's wedding, when he'd taken Polyjuice potion to disguise himself as Ron's cousin.
Hermione looked him over briefly and said, "Me too."
While the world around the invisible marquee was cold, blue, and growing dark and silent, inside was warm, bright, and buzzing with life. Nearly all the guests had arrived by then, and most had found their seats. Harry mused there seemed to be double the amount of guests, compared to Bill and Fleur's wedding.
The aisle down the center of the semi-circle of rows of translucent chairs was covered with white flower petals, as if snow. Tall arrangements, made of branches, white flowers, and frosted green and light brown dried reeds from the marshes around the Burrow, enchanted with warm, flickering white lights, stood at the head of the aisle, where George and Angelina would say their vows.
Similar arrangements were scattered about the marquee, and along the long, rectangular tables that would be used for the reception, giving the feeling of being in a wintry forest.
As Harry and Hermione stepped inside the marquee, Harry looked upwards, and saw tiny, floating white lights overhead highlight the gradual disappearance of the falling snow from outside, as each flake neared the ceiling perimeter.
He felt like he was in a snow globe.
"Harry," Hermione said as they entered the marquee, "My dress, it's green now."
Indeed, Hermione's dress had changed from navy blue to emerald green. Harry looked around the room and saw that all the men were wearing black, and all the women were wearing red or green.
"It's a charm," Hermione informed, also noting the homogenous attire of the other guests.
"Harry, Hermione, dears," Mrs. Weasley greeted them kindly, but hurriedly, "we're about to start, there are seats at the front there… don't worry about the petals on the aisle, they're enchanted not to move."
Harry and Hermione saw the only seats left vacant were a few in the second row, by the center of the aisle, where Mr. Weasley and Angelina's father were sitting. Harry spotted Andromeda there as well.
Harry also saw that George, Lee, Ron, Charlie, Bill, and Percy were lined up, standing at the front.
As Harry and Hermione made their way, still arm in arm, down the aisle, Teddy bundled to Hermione's side, Harry couldn't help but notice the glances, stares, and whispers from some of the guests as they passed.
Harry was thankful when he caught sight of Oliver Wood and Neville waving enthusiastically to them from their seats. Harry waved back.
"Is there something on my face?" Harry whispered to Hermione, wiping at his cheek.
"No…" Hermione whispered back, "I think some people are wondering about Teddy."
Harry didn't notice that Teddy's eyes had turned green, matching Harry's. His hair had also turned as dark as Harry's, but no one could see that, as the baby wore a knitted hat. The baby looked more like Teddy Potter, than Teddy Lupin. Apparently, Teddy was as uncomfortable with all the attention as Harry was.
"Oh…" Harry said, still not understanding, but he didn't have time to ask, as they took their seats. Hermione passed Teddy to a waiting Andromeda. Ron gave them a little wave from the front, which Hermione returned.
"Thank you," Andromeda whispered to Harry and Hermione, just as the music in the room changed, and Harry saw Katie Bell walking down the aisle, where he and Hermione had just walked themselves.
Katie was followed by Ginny, then Alicia, all wearing huge smiles, and long, black dresses. They held bouquets of white, and stood in a line at the front of the room.
The officiant then asked all the guests to rise, and Angelina appeared, in a fitted white dress, also carrying a bouquet of white. The warm lights in the room reflected off of the subtle, yet intricate, gold and silver lace woven into her gown.
As Angelina reached George at the head of the aisle, the couple were beaming. By the way they looked at each other, Harry figured they probably wouldn't even notice if all the guests happened to suddenly disappear.
The ceremony was short, but sweet, and Harry found himself able to pay more attention to George and Angelina's ceremony than to Bill and Fleur's. He really listened to the couple's vows, his mind clear of the worries of horcruxes, and Voldemort, and the war.
He heard Andromeda and Hermione sniffling on either side of him, and this time around, he began to understand why. Anyone could appreciate the specialness of George and Angelina's ceremony, a symbol of the hope that love still wrought, even after so much pain and loss.
He gently nudged Hermione and smiled at her brightly, a smile which she returned.
As the ceremony concluded with George and Angelina's kiss, every guest stood and cheered in honor of the newlyweds, to start off their new life together from a high point. The wedding party, including Ron, disappeared down the aisle, and George and Angelina, hand in hand, followed.
Guests began to leave their seats and disperse amongst the marquee when, suddenly, the band started playing an upbeat tune. George and Angelina immediately proceeded to an open, white dance floor, illuminated by floating lights, for their first dance as husband and wife. Somehow, Angelina's long dress had shortened, the hem now above her knees, allowing her to move more freely.
The ushers, including Ron, had mysteriously vanished, but Ginny, Alicia, and Katie were dancing themselves, beckoning guests onto the dance floor. Many guests joined in the fun, and Harry looked to Andromeda, his smile broad.
"Go ahead, Harry, I've got Teddy."
"C'mon, Hermione!" Harry said, leading his best friend toward the dance floor. He hadn't forgotten his promise to her, or the way he'd imagined dancing with her at this wedding, and if he were forced to admit it, he was quite caught up in the celebration- he wanted to dance with Hermione.
Hermione followed a bit reluctantly, "But, what about Ron? Where did-"
"He'll find you!" They'd made it to the dance floor, and Harry put one arm around her waist, the other he used to hold her hand. Hermione put her free hand on his shoulder, and they began to dance simply, doing their best to keep up with the beat of the tune.
"But you don't like dancing!" Hermione said, laughing now. "Are you drunk?"
Harry laughed, "One Butterbeer and you're all suspicious of me, that hurts!" Harry retorted over the music. He certainly wasn't drunk, but he mused that the singular Butterbeer he'd enjoyed (he managed to avoid the funneling) with Ron and his friends hand't hurt.
One jovial song blended into the next.
"Remember this?" Harry said, and before Hermione could protest, he swept her into a spin, outwards, then back to him. Then, he placed both hands on her waist and lifted her gently off the floor. He knew how uncoordinated it must've looked, but he didn't care. He was having fun.
Her feet back on the ground, and holding onto Harry a little more tightly, and closely, Hermione laughed, "The Yule Ball dance? I'm surprised you remember!"
"I have my moments," Harry grinned.
"Nice move there, Harry," Neville called, dancing with Luna beside them, "do I recognize that from the Yule Ball?"
"That's the one!" Ginny interjected, dancing with a man Harry didn't recognize. "Krum would be impressed… or very unimpressed, now that I think of it," she continued, looking pointedly at Hermione.
"Krum?" The unnamed man asked, "Viktor Krum?"
"I'll explain later," Ginny said to her partner, "I think there's about to be a show."
Without warning, the sky exploded into light- gold, and silver, and sparkling. The band erupted into Christmas music as the guests continued to dance and look on in wonderment.
"So that's where they got off to," Ginny said over the noise, "I saw Charlie's old room full of mysterious packages… it'll take the lot of them to set those off."
"I hope Ron comes back with his eyebrows," Hermione joked.
The rhythm of the music had slowed, but Harry noticed Hermione still clutching him quite closely.
"You okay?" He asked, looking down at her, taken by the reflection of the fireworks in her eyes.
She nodded, "I just feel a bit weak still… sorry," she looked away, and retreated from him a bit.
He wrapped his arm around her waist more firmly, drawing her back to him, "Don't be… I may be rubbish at dancing, but at least I know I won't let you fall."
"Remember you danced with me last year? In the forest? I thought you used up all your good moves then," Hermione joked, trying to change the subject.
"What? Like this one?" Harry asked, then displayed his most "choreographed" dance move.
Hermione played along, laughing.
Harry felt… free.
"Wotcher, Harry," Neville said as the final firework exploded into a downpour of gold and silver glitter that gleamed sublimely against the falling snow, "You're going to take her eye out."
The band's song faded into the chatter of the crowd, and the lead signer announced it was time for the guests to find their seats for dinner.
Harry was seated next to Hermione and Andromeda. A highchair was set up for Teddy next to his grandmother. Harry was happy to also be joined by Luna and her father, Neville, and Hermione's parents, who seemed quite giddy, champagne in hand.
As the first course was served, Ron, Lee, Bill, Charlie, and Percy entered the marquee to much applause. Harry whooped. Charlie led the way, appearing quiet burnt, as was his typical appearance, but Harry immediately saw the rest of the group shared similar looks.
Harry could've sworn the ends of Percy's hair were smoking.
Ron plopped himself next to Hermione, grinning. "That was amazing, wasn't it?!" He shouted.
Everyone in earshot winced. Harry laughed.
"Glad you made it back with your eyebrows," Harry joked, and shot a wink at Hermione.
"Not sure about my hearing, though," Ron said, again very loudly, rubbing his right ear.
"I can fix that!" Luna announced cheerfully, then tapped Ron's ears with her wand.
By the sudden look on Ron's face, he was taken aback by the sudden influx of sound.
He covered his ears and whispered, "Thanks, Luna."
"That was amazing, though, Ron," Mr. Granger said, "I'm not sure I've ever seen anything like it."
As everyone finished up their first course, the lead singer of the band handed a microphone over to Lee Jordan.
Harry could tell the former Hogwarts' Quidditch broadcaster was in his element. Harry laughed, thinking, I wish McGonagall were here to see this.
"Good evening, good evening, ladies and gentlemen, if I do say so myself, what a superior evening," Lee began.
"For those of you who don't know me, I'm- well hold on, for those of you who don't know me, please leave immediately. No, no… only joking… I'm Lee Jordan, George's best man."
"But I'm certainly not the best man this evening, that would be George himself, and I've got to say, what a man he is- the most loyal, funny, and thoughtful friend a guy could ask for… at least that's what he told me to say."
George booed in jest, and all the guests laughed.
"The best thing about George, though, by far, is Angelina. She's funnier than her new husband here, and Merlin is she attractive, people, and, even though she debatably prefers red hair and freckles to this gorgeous complexion and style of hair," Lee motioned to his own face and hair, "I hear she's wicked intelligent too…"
"And anyone can see George and Angelina are perfect for each other… they make each other laugh more than anyone else, even me."
"Here, here!" Someone called.
"But I would be remiss if I didn't mention how honored I am to be George's best man. Which I am. But I can't say I'm surprised, with my broadcasting skills being beyond reproach and all… Now, I'm not trying to dampen the mood here, but it wouldn't be fair of me not to mention that I know I wasn't really George's first choice for best man… that would've been Fred."
The marquee was silent as Lee continued.
"Now I know some of you may think it's in bad taste for me to bring up my other best friend, Fred, who gave his life to make our world better, but then you must not have known Fred very well. He'd be upset if we didn't talk about him at his twin brother's wedding. In fact, I bet Fred is cursing up a storm that he wasn't mentioned in those vows earlier… and that we didn't hang some kind of banner with his wonky face all over it, but, I hope I'm doing him proud. Let's all take a moment to raise a glass in memory of the better looking Weasley twin, the best man of all, Fred Weasley."
All the guests joined Lee in his toast as he lifted his glass and cheered,"To Fred!"
"I hope you all enjoyed the finest of Weasleys' Wildfire Whiz-bangs earlier, put on by me and the boys, but I have one last gift for my best friends, the newlyweds…"
Lee gestured upwards, and the sky again erupted into sparkling light and sound, even more magnificent than the last set of fireworks, the most impressive of which was an explosion of gold, silver, red, and green stars that spread broadly, then downwards, slowly losing speed. Just as it seemed the stars would disappear, they rearranged themselves in the sky to read 'George & Angelina.'
The guests looked on in wonder and merriment, clapping and whooping.
"I helped him with these!" Ron shouted over the noise, "Was almost impossible to keep it a secret from George!"
"They're great!" Hermione said.
"Brilliant!" Harry agreed.
Harry tore his eyes away form the display, and saw George and Angelina hugging Lee simultaneously. Harry suddenly wondered how Lee must feel. Not only had he recently lost Fred, one of his best friends, now, in a way, he was losing his other best friends, George and Angelina.
Harry glanced at Ron and Hermione, who were now sitting down to enjoy the main course that had magically appeared at every guest's seat.
I wonder if that will be me someday, Harry wondered, imagining himself in Lee's shoes. As much as the happiness of his two best friends brought him joy, imagining himself in Lee's shoes made Harry feel lonely and uncomfortable.
Harry contemplated what it would be like for him if his two best friends got married, and considered some of the recent moments he and Hermione had experienced together… leading her in a dance, talking until dawn, walking arm in arm. He wondered if he'd still be able to do those things, if she and Ron were married.
"All right, Harry?" Hermione asked in concern, nudging his elbow. He was unknowingly pushing food around his plate, not eating.
"Me?" Harry asked, his reverie broken, "Yeah, just not that hungry, I guess."
"Even after all that dancing?" Andromeda smirked.
"Is that what you call it?" Neville added.
Harry grinned, and popped a bite of food into his mouth, "Ron'll take over now."
"What'd I miss?" Ron asked.
"I've never seen a waltz like that before," Luna said, smiling.
"Harry and Hermione were dancing," Andromeda informed a bemused Ron.
"Oh, really, Harry?" Hermione joked. "I didn't know my dancing skills suddenly aren't good enough for you anymore."
Everyone at the table laughed.
"It seems Harry here paid a lot more attention to McGonagall's dance lessons than we thought, Ron. That move he pulled earlier did him in," Neville added.
"What move?" Ron said, his eyes wide.
"You're so right Neville, I do have to retire now. There's no besting my spin and lift," Harry said in mock seriousness, ignoring Ron's question.
"That's too bad, Harry" Luna said from across the table, "I was hoping we could dance later."
Hermione looked at Harry and said, "That is a shame…"
Even though Hermione said it sarcastically, she did feel it would be a great loss if she never got to dance with her best friend again, tonight, or at any future event that called for dancing.
As it turned out, Harry's dancing days were not behind him, as he offered Luna his arm once the plates were cleared. Hermione and Ron joined them on the dance floor.
After his dance with Luna, which had been wholly more eclectic than his dance with Hermione, Harry went in search of a Butterbeer.
En route, he was delayed by Ginny and the man she'd danced with earlier, who Harry quickly discovered was none other than Randolph Spudmore.
"It's great to finally meet you, Mr. Potter! Can I call you Harry? Ginny here tells me it's all right," as Spudmore shook Harry's hand with exuberance, his words tumbled out of his mouth faster than one of his Firebolts soared through the air.
When Ginny had written to him, explaining who Spudmore was, Harry envisioned a much older man. With his straight yet ruffled sandy hair and energetic limbering frame, it was clear Randolph Spudmore was no older than twenty-two.
"Er- yeah, just Harry. Great to meet you too, thanks for offering those custom brooms-"
"Thank me? I should be thanking you! What, for everything you've done for the wizarding world… this is the least I can do. Plus, full disclosure, Harry, it'll be great if the 'X' gets your approval and the public gets wind of it!"
"Slow down there, Spud," Ginny said as she hastily plucked three Butterbeers from a passing tray, offering one to Spudmore and Harry each, reserving the third for herself, "you're going to scare Harry away."
Spudmore laughed and wrapped his arm around Ginny's shoulders, "Didn't scare you away, did I?"
Harry raised his eyebrow and did everything in his power not to sputter on his drink. Ginny grinned forcefully, then shot daggers Harry's way.
"I'm sure it's going to be great Spudmo-"
"Randy, call me Randy."
"Randy. I doubt your brooms need my approval anyway."
"Couldn't hurt, Harry! Everyone knows you're a great seeker, and any team in the UK, any team in the Confederation actually, would love to get their hands on you… any interest in playing professionally?" Spudmore responded, in one breath.
Harry had certainly considered trying out professionally, but the thought of continuing to live his life in the spotlight was very, very unpleasant. His conversation with Spudmore, although the man was generally well-intentioned, reminded Harry of that.
"No… Harry was too afraid he'd have to face off against me," Ginny joked.
"No blame there, Harry, Ginny's really something special on the pitch," Spudmore grinned broadly at Ginny, and she blushed.
Harry held up his hands in mock defeat, "Got me there."
"So when can I expect you at my shop?" Spudmore asked enthusiastically.
"What shop?" Neville interjected unexpectedly, joining the conversation. He unceremoniously plucked the Butterbeer from Ginny's hand as she attempted to bring it to her lips.
She scowled at her friend playfully, and he took a swig, smiling. Harry chuckled at the exchange.
"Finally got that Butterbeer, eh Neville?" Harry asked.
"Yeah, no thanks to you," Neville joked.
Ginny plucked the bottle back from Neville and took a sip herself, "No thanks to me either, thank you very much."
"So when will you and your friends be coming by my shop Harry? Soon, I hope?" Spudmore continued, as if he hadn't noticed Harry, Ginny, and Neville's exchange.
Ginny rolled her eyes and turned to Neville. "Let's go," she commanded, taking his arm and leading him to the dance floor.
Spudmore didn't bat an eye, as he continued to exuberantly attend to Harry.
"Uh… soon," Harry said, unsure. He hadn't really thought about when he might take up Spudmore's offer until earlier that day.
"Soon I hope," Spudmore repeated, rubbing his hands together, "so many new toys in production, not just the 'X,' would love to get your input on them… your friends, too. I hear you keep the company of a pretty talented crew, if Gin is any indication."
Harry was amazed at the man's lung capacity.
Harry nodded, thinking of Hermione. Even though the extent of his best friend's interest in brooms and Quidditch was that of a last ditch means of travel and spectating her friends' matches, he figured Hermione's knowledge of charms, and magic in general, could no doubt be useful to Spudmore.
"I'll bring them along. Maybe January?" Harry offered.
This seemed to appease Spudmore, as he smiled broadly and clapped Harry on the back. "January it is, Harry! Perfect! Send an owl when you know the date… now, where did my date run off to?"
Spudmore scanned the room, and saw Ginny dancing with Neville. "Best go tend to that, eh Harry? That Weasley's a quick one, no doubt."
Before Harry had a chance to respond, Randolph Spudmore was bounding onto the dance floor, animatedly interposing himself between Ginny and Neville. Harry laughed, watching his friends making it purposefully difficult for Spudmore.
Andromeda passed by Harry then, and he plucked his godson from her arms.
"My dance partner!" She exclaimed.
"Mine now!" Harry said, and joined his friends back on the dance floor, bouncing Teddy to the music.
The evening continued in much the same way, with dancing, food, and general merriment. Harry found himself without a shortage of pressing conversation or dance partners, speaking at length with Oliver Wood, Dean Thomas, and Seamus Finnigan, and dancing with Mrs. Weasley, Andromeda, Luna again, Katie and Alicia (they came as a pair), and Teddy. He didn't get another chance to dance with Hermione, who seemed rather monopolized by Ron.
It was very late by the time Andromeda found Harry to let him know she was heading home, and bringing Teddy with her.
Harry looked around, and saw that, although his friends continued to dance (and drink) with vigor, many of the guests had already left. As much fun as he was having, in truth, Harry had been looking for a means of respite for a while.
"Let me come with you," Harry offered, "I'll put Teddy to bed, and then I'll come back."
"Don't be silly, Harry, you stay with your friends," Andromeda said, stifling a yawn.
"I want to," Harry said truthfully, "it's his first Christmas."
Andromeda smiled gently, and after saying her goodbyes to Molly, Arthur, and the newlyweds, she apparated home with Harry and Teddy.
After Harry settled Teddy into bed at Andromeda's, he apparated back to Burrow, intent on changing out of his dress robes.
As he turned to enter the room he shared with Ron at the Burrow, Harry saw Fleur, whose dress had been charmed green this evening, sitting on his bed, looking through the photo album Dudley had sent him.
The emerald green of her dress contrasted sharply, but beautifully, with her white-blond hair. She looked like she could be Draco Malfoy's sister, or a member of Slytherin House, at any rate.
She noticed Harry in the doorway with a start.
"Oh! 'Arry, I am so sorry!" As Fleur jumped up, she clutched her abdomen with one hand, and the album fell to the floor.
Fleur's accent had not changed much over the years, even though she'd been living in England for quite some time.
"Oh…" she said again, suddenly turning pale. Sitting gingerly back on the bed, she lowered herself slowly, eyes closed, and brought her free hand up to her forehead.
Harry rushed to her side.
"Are you okay? Let me go get Bill-" Harry urged, gently placing a hand on her shoulder.
She silently shook her head no. Harry noted she kept the palm of her right hand over her abdomen.
"Are you ill?" Harry asked softly.
She smiled, "I was… but it seems to come and go quickly. The dizziness, too. You see, Harry…" she paused.
"I am pregnant."
Harry stood, stunned, and suddenly felt horribly shy.
She opened her eyes, and seeing Harry's expression, she smiled.
"You are not happy for Bill and I?"
Fleur's words broke through Harry's stupor, "No- I mean yes! Congratulations!" Harry smiled earnestly, and gently sat next to her on the bed.
"I didn't know," he continued.
"Only Bill and Gabrielle know, at least right now… it is still early, you see. And we did not wish to take away from George and Angelina's happiness."
Harry nodded, thinking that was incredibly considerate of Fleur.
Harry wondered how it must feel to know you would be bringing a new life into the world, to know that you would soon be a parent.
"It has been wonderful, so far," Fleur said, as if reading his thoughts, "but for my sickness, and fatigue. That is why I came up here, to be alone, to get a bit of rest."
"Oh… is there anything I can do?"
"That is very sweet of you, but no. Just promise you will keep our secret?" Fleur entreated.
"Of course!" Harry said, perhaps too eagerly.
Fleur laughed, "War has not changed you too much, I see, not the parts that matter."
"I hope not," Harry joked.
"I am sorry I looked through your album, that was very… how you say, nosy, of me."
'It's all right," Harry said truthfully, "I haven't even looked inside yet."
"Why not? There are some lovely photos inside… your mother, in some, if I am not mistaken." Even though Fleur had never seen a photo of Harry's parents before, anyone would recognize the likeness between Harry and Lily's eyes.
"I- I can't. I keeping thinking about it, over and over, but I can't."
Harry sighed, and looked to the floor.
Fleur lightly touched his arm and sighed as well.
"The past… it used to frighten me too, you see. Always nightmares of the Dark Lake, and the maze… and Cedric…"
"After what happened to Bill, I said, no more. Non. I would not let the past frighten me again, because I learned, Harry, the past only has power over us if we ignore it."
He watched Fleur's feet as she stood, then slowly leaned over to pick the album up off the floor. She placed it in his lap.
Harry hadn't looked up yet, so he didn't notice Hermione now standing silently in the doorway.
"But we cannot go forward alone, Bill says."
"He's right," Hermione said softly, startling Harry.
"I was just leaving," Fleur said, gesturing for Hermione to sit where she had been, "I know Bill must miss me."
As Hermione sat next to Harry on the bed, Fleur smiled kindly at the pair. Fleur knew she had changed over the years, had grown more empathetic, more thoughtful, but she continued to pride herself on her unwavering, impeccable taste.
The sight of Harry in his dark robes, his hair disheveled, as usual, but handsomely so, next to Hermione, in a fitted dress the color of Harry's eyes, her long hair curled and swept to one side, pleased Fleur greatly.
"And speaking of the past… you two brought tears to my eyes tonight… you remembered the Triwizard dance… how fun, how young we all were then."
Harry blushed, and Hermione beamed.
Fleur nearly gave some advice to the pair, who she knew had unknowingly and unintendedly drawn the attention of many wedding guests, and likely some jealousy, that evening; however, she thought better of it.
Although it was certain to her that Harry and Hermione looked to be the perfect couple, it was not her place to comment, particularly as she recalled Bill mentioning something between Hermione and his youngest brother.
They are still young in the ways of the heart, Fleur thought.
Fleur gracefully turned on her heel to exit the room, but stopped midway and said, "And remember, 'Arry, shhh," Fleur put a finger to her lips before she glided out of sight.
Hermione looked at Harry questioningly.
"You'll find out soon enough, I think," Harry informed, smiling.
"You okay?" Harry asked, wondering why Hermione was inside the house.
Hermione hesitated, then said, "I had to sneak away from Ron, he hasn't let me out of his sight. I'm exhausted."
Harry smirked, "He trying to make up for missed dances?"
"Merlin knows," Hermione said, blowing a piece of stray hair out of her eyes. She placed her hand on the photo album.
"What's this?"
Now's a good a time as any, Harry thought.
"It's a photo album my cousin Dudley sent me."
"Dudley?" Hermione said in surprise.
"Yeah… he sent it a few months ago, with an apology letter. He said my aunt left the album behind… it's from when she was a kid."
"Oh…" Hermione breathed, understanding Harry's hesitation.
"We don't have to look through it."
"I know," Harry said, "but I think it's time."
Harry lifted the cover, and began to slowly flip through the pages. Noting his aunt's name printed inside the front cover, there was no doubt that this was Petunia's photo album, and based on the messy, handwritten labels of 'Me' beneath many of the photos, it was an album she'd started as a child.
The photo album was organized chronologically, and as Harry turned the pages, he and Hermione observed a homely-looking baby transform into a homely, twiggy-looking child. There were some photos of adults Harry assumed were his grandparents, or great-grandparents. There were also photos of a young Petunia with other children Harry didn't recognize. Some were labelled with names like 'Sally' and 'Susan.'
"Her friends, probably," Hermione offered.
But what interested Harry and Hermione most were the photos of his mother, Lily, before she was Lily Potter, and, judging by how young she appeared in the photos, before anyone knew Lily was a witch.
Looking at a picture of his mum, beaming brightly, standing with her sister and her parents, made Harry smile. There was a time when his mother and her sister got along.
Hermione gently touched a darker, empty spot on the page, where it was clear a photo used to be. As Harry turned the pages, the number of these empty spaces increased, and the number of photographs with Lily decreased sharply.
"Petunia must've removed a lot of the photos," Hermione said quietly.
After turning a page filled with pictures of a teenaged Petunia and the girl named 'Sally,' Harry and Hermione came upon a page with only one photo.
The page was clearly damaged. It was covered in haphazard red and black marks, and the edges were wrinkled and torn. The corners of the page looked singed by flame. The page contained no labels. Rather, in handwriting that in no way matched the handwriting in the rest of the album, the photo itself was labeled with three names, 'Lily,' 'Severus,' and 'Muggle.'
Among Petunia's other photographs, this photo was as unusual as the page it made its home. The people in the image moved. It was a magical photograph.
"Harry…" Hermione breathed, "…is that-"
"Snape? Yeah, it is."
In the photograph, Lily, Petunia, and Severus Snape were no older than fifteen or sixteen. Severus and Lily stood side by side, smiling and laughing, an arm wrapped around the other's shoulders. Petunia stood quite separately, glaring at Snape, arms crossed tightly over her chest.
"He and my mum grew up in the same town… they were friends. Best friends, I think. Snape and my aunt hated each other."
Watching the image of Petunia attempt to scratch out Severus' name from the photograph, anyone could see that. Seeing Lily and Severus continue to laugh and joke, it was just as clear to Hermione, if not more so, that the two were close friends.
The image reminded Harry of the photograph he'd seen of himself, Ron, and Hermione on Hermione's desk. He shivered.
Harry touched the singed edges of the page with his fingertips and smirked, "Looks like Petunia tried to get rid of this page."
"Definitely. She wasn't very successful… How long have you known, about Snape and your mum?" Hermione asked.
"After Snape died…"
"His memories," Hermione finished, needing no further explanation.
Harry turned the page, but the rest of the album was blank. He closed the book, and looked up at Hermione. He appreciated the quiet, and he remembered a similar quiet he'd shared with his best friend, standing in a snowy graveyard in Godric's Hollow, one year ago.
"Will you go somewhere with me?" Harry asked.
Hermione nodded, "Of course."
He took her hand in his, and they disapparated.
/
/
"Harry, where- where are we?"
For a moment, Harry considered maybe he apparated them to the wrong location.
As his eyes adjusted in the dim light, revealing the muddied outline of identical rows of narrow, brick homes, overshadowed by the looming presence of a towering, dysfunctional industrial chimney, he knew he'd apparated exactly where he'd intended.
As Harry stepped forward to walk down the snow-dusted lane, Hermione squeezed his hand and gave him a look, still searching for an answer. A bleary street sign overhead read Spinner's End.
"Cokeworth," he replied, offering no other explanation.
Hermione only nodded, trusting Harry.
Although the lane was coated with a thin layer of freshly-fallen snow, it did little to mask the wear and grime of the gnarled bricks and cobblestones underfoot, of the monotonous gray-brown facade of the grim buildings.
A gust of wind encircled Harry and Hermione in a cloud of snow, and, without word, Harry draped his robes over Hermione's shoulders.
"Thanks," she whispered, then cast a warming spell over them both. She didn't remove his robes from her shoulders, though.
By the amount of snowflakes covering his black robes, Harry could see the snowfall was picking up, and he was glad for it.
The less I see of this place, Harry thought, the better.
Harry led them down the gradually sloping lane. It was silent in Cokeworth, but for the call of the wind and the distant barking of a dog.
As the ground leveled, the lane gave way to an icy, sullen riverbank. The river itself was narrow, nearly frozen over, lined with gnarled shrubs and underbrush that, covered in snow, looked like stone.
Harry and Hermione followed the riverbank slowly until they came to the twisted, black trunk of a willow tree. The tree was old, towering over the riverbank, the tips of its farthest branches skimming the other side of the river.
Harry and Hermione took shelter beneath the arched canopy of frost.
"I think my mum and Snape used to play here, I saw it in his memories," Harry said quietly, his breath rising in puffs of white.
Even though her spell had not faltered, Hermione pulled Harry's robe around her more tightly.
"They were friends… and Snape, he- he loved my mum. They got into an argument, and stopped being friends at Hogwarts, but he never stopped loving her. He hated my dad, but he still tried to protect her… and when he failed, he tried- no he did, he protected me."
Hermione's mind was racing, remembering all of their interactions with Snape during their time at Hogwarts, especially Harry's interactions with the potions master, how confused their professor's behavior had often left her. She remembered the way Snape had looked into Harry's eyes as he lay dying.
Dumbledore always trusted Snape, Hermione thought, now understanding why that trust was valid.
"I was so cruel to him," Harry said, kicking at a bit of ice by the water's edge.
"You didn't know, none of us knew. And he was never exactly… kind to you. I don't think he would blame you, Harry."
Hermione was right, of course, and Harry acknowledged that.
Looking down at the icy black water reminded Harry of the night Snape used his patronus to lead Harry to the sword of Gryffindor.
Harry exhaled, closing his eyes. He allowed his mind to empty, then fill with a memory, the very recent memory of Hermione waking from her withdrawal.
"Expecto patronum," Harry said firmly, but quietly.
Harry opened his eyes to the glowing blue light of his stag. Hermione watched the stag graze at the edge of the river, its blue light emanating all around them, under the frozen willow tree.
She idly wondered if her patronus was the same. It had been so long since she'd casted it.
"Snape's patronus was a doe, like my mum's. He used it to help lead me to the sword of Gryffindor, to destroy the locket."
Harry stared at his patronus, "And when he gave me his memories… he explained everything he'd done and why, and helped me see what I had to do, to defeat Voldemort. Hermione, he…"
Hermione stepped closer to Harry, and placed her hand on his arm.
Harry met her gaze, "…he helped me accept death. Seeing what he'd lost and sacrificed, it helped me make my own sacrifice."
Tears slowly fell from Harry's eyes, freezing as they made contact with the ground.
Harry and Hermione embraced, and he buried his face in her shoulder. It was the first time he'd really processed his thoughts and feelings surrounding Snape's actions and memories, the implications of it all, the first time he'd allowed himself to grieve for the man he'd misunderstood.
"I think he'd be glad, Harry, that you lived, that he was able to protect you, Lily's son, in the end."
Harry wiped his eyes and nodded. His stag hadn't faded yet; it nuzzled its nose against his side. Harry felt its comforting warmth.
Hermione knelt by the base of the willow tree, and in much the same way she'd conjured a wreath for his parents' grave last Christmas Eve, a full bouquet of white lilies appeared, pure and glowing, propped against the dark trunk.
Harry's patronus followed Hermione and knelt beside her, sniffling lightly at the flowers before fading into the night.
Somewhere, a clock tolled midnight. It was Christmas.
"Let's go, Hermione."
/
/
When Harry and Hermione arrived back outside the invisible wedding marquee at the Burrow, they saw a few people remained inside, talking in hushed tones at nearly empty tables, or dancing slowly to the band that continued to play.
George and Angelina, Bill and Fleur, Lee and Alicia, and a couple Harry didn't recognize were revolving on the dance floor. Charlie, Neville, Oliver, Ginny, Luna, and Katie chatted at a table littered with empty Butterbeer bottles. Ron was nowhere in sight.
"One more dance?" Harry asked Hermione, offering her his hand as they entered the marquee.
Hermione smiled, "Sure, but only because it's a slow one."
As Harry put his hand on Hermione's waist, the song changed. It was slow, and halting, and beautiful.
"This is our last song tonight, folks. Merry Christmas to all, and congratulations again to George and Angelina," the singer of the band announced smoothly.
Harry and Hermione danced in silence for a short while, leaving Cokeworth behind them for now, before Hermione asked, "So what did you think of the wedding?"
"Brilliant," Harry replied, "you?"
"Beautiful… although I'm not sure if green's my color," Hermione said, looking down at her dress.
"I think it looks just right on you," Harry said honestly.
There was a brief pause in conversation before Harry asked quietly, "So we agree these wedding things are pretty great… d'you think- d'you think you want to get married some day?"
It was not a question he ever imagined himself asking anyone, let alone Hermione, but he found himself wanting to know what Hermione thought.
"Yeah… yeah, I may not know much about what I want for my future, but I think I would… to be married some day," Hermione smiled, "why… are you asking me?"
"Not sure how that would go over with Ron," Harry smiled back, "or your parents. Not that I would ever ask you like this anyway."
"Oh, so you've given this some thought? Harry, this is so sudden," Hermione teased.
Why is my heart racing? Hermione wondered.
"I may be pretty daft sometimes, Hermione, but if- if I'm going to ask someone to be stuck with me forever, I know I better figure out some way to really sell it, y'know? Not much to offer here, really," Harry continued the ruse.
Hermione rolled her eyes. "You have a lot to offer, Harry, more than anyone I know."
"You have to say that, you're my best friend."
"That's exactly why I don't have to say that," Hermione said.
Harry conceded with a gesture of his head, "Suppose so. Thanks for the confidence boost, though, not that a wedding is anywhere in my near future."
"Good," Hermione said in mock firmness, "I'm not ready for that."
As they continued to dance, they both found themselves wondering not what it would be like if they dated, but what it might be like if they were married, if they promised to stand by each other forever.
Harry realized his heart was racing. What's going on?
"This song sounds familiar," he said, trying to gain control over his mind and emotions.
Hermione listened intently.
"You're right, but I can't place it."
Harry and Hermione didn't realize, but the song the band played was the same one they'd danced to last year, alone in a tent in the forest, sometime after Ron had left.
"You should ask Lee," Neville said, appearing beside them, dancing with Ginny, "his request."
"Spud's gone?" Harry asked.
"A while ago, had work to do, he said," Ginny shrugged, "he loves his work, that much is for sure."
"Where've you two been?" Neville asked, just as Bill and Fleur glided toward them. Over Hermione's shoulder, Harry saw Ron enter the marquee.
"'Arry, 'Ermione," Fleur said loudly and abruptly, "Did Teddy get to sleep all right? I told Hermione's parents that two sets of hands were needed tonight." Harry saw that she glanced quickly at Ron.
Hermione looked at Harry quizzically, but he recognized that Fleur was covering for their disappearance. They'd been gone over an hour.
"It took a while," Harry responded, also louder than necessary, seeing his best friend watching, and listening, intently, "I'm glad Hermione helped me."
Harry saw realization dawn on Hermione's face, and, ensuring no one but Harry and Fleur could see, Hermione mouthed 'Thank you' to Fleur. Harry saw Fleur wink in response.
Harry made a mental note to thank Fleur more fully later. Her quick thinking certainly saved him from more than one uncomfortable situation tonight.
No sooner had the song ended when Ron was at their side.
"You should've told me you were going to Andromeda's," Ron said to Harry and Hermione, not unkindly, as they stepped apart, "I could've helped, too."
"Sorry, Ron, Teddy was being a handful," Harry replied.
Harry considered how easy it was for him to lie to Ron in this moment, and was surprised at his lack of guilt.
Harry couldn't help but think again that there were now some things, things he could only share with Hermione.
"Yeah, we almost had to call for backup," Hermione smiled. Apparently, the same held true for her.
"Oh, and Ron, happy Christmas," Harry said sincerely.
He was happy he'd be able to spend this Christmas with Ron and the Weasleys, as they'd done for so many years before the war, but, as he pictured Hermione's bouquet of lilies in his mind, Harry was even more appreciative of tonight, of a night he made her smile, of an unspoken weight now lifted from his shoulders, of a slow dance to a forgotten song, of an hour or two he'd spent alone in her company.
/