Usual disclaimer: I don't own them and make no profit, except at their expense.

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I'm sorry for taking so long to update. I've been taking part in the HarryPotter_LAS competition on LJ. If you have a LJ and would like to read and vote you can do so here: http:/ community. livejournal. com/ harrypotter_las/ Hope you enjoy the story. Muse willing the next chapter *should* be SS POV. :)

Chapter Eleven: Boxing Day Sales

Ginny decided I needed to take advantage of the after Christmas sales in Diagon Alley. I'm glad we decided on Wizarding shops instead of trying the Muggle High Streets elsewhere; especially London! I don't think I could've handled the jostling and hassle, regardless of magical ability. It's funny, how I was so sure that Harry and Ginny would announce their engagement, and so far, no news. Perhaps this is for the best with Molly nagging at me to get married for the sake of my child...

I was so wrapped up in my thoughts that I didn't notice when we made our way to Madam Malkin's. Ginny apparently pre-ordered a set of dress robes on my behalf for her and Harry's Hogmanay party. Why they're having a Hogmanay party in the middle of London was beyond me, until Ginny explained that they really wanted to end the year with a bang! The set of robes she chose for me is a black lace bolero with an emerald green, sleeve-less empire waist dress, with black lace sash between the bust and bump. Its suck a lovely floaty, yet opulent looking set of robes. They were very flattering and fit perfectly. I can't wait to wear them!

After purchasing the new robes we decided to make a stop at Fortescue's newly reopened Ice Cream Parlour on our way to George's shop. Nothing's quite as nice as eating ice cream in front of a roaring fire, or so Mum used to say when I was younger. When we were leaving the Ice Cream Parlour Ron spotted, and decided to join us on our walk to the shop. Ron was on his way back to the shop from his lunch break. He apparently just completed what he hoped was a successful interview to enter the Auror Training Programme next year.

The day was going very well, until I stopped to eye a display in the Wee Witches and Wizards shop near Gringott's. As I turned to continue down the street, I started to trip and Ron caught me. Just as I was setting myself to rights, and about to set off I saw him coming out of Gringott's. For a brief minute our eyes met. His eyes were unreadable, and before I could call out to him, he Disapparated.


AN: If you're interested in Hermione's dress you can view it here: http:/ www. tiffanyrose. com/ maternity/ clothing/ EMR. html