Harry Potter belongs to J.K. Rowling, only the Archard family belongs to me. The French words/phrases will be italicized, as well as the spells. Please review!

Chapter 18: The Winter Ball

Esme POV

We landed in an unfamiliar place with a soft crack. It felt unsettling to suddenly go from one place to another; if it wasn't for Maman's hand gripping mine, I would've stumbled. I felt sick to my stomach as bile tried to come up my throat. My eyes closed tight as I forced it back down, unwilling to risk ruining my dress.

"Take deep relaxing breaths, my darlings," Maman advised us as she gently pulled us forward. "The nausea is completely normal and shall pass soon."

A couple of deep breaths later and my stomach did indeed settle. I opened my eyes and could finally take a look around where we had landed. We were standing on a stone path near a circle of stones with visible runes carved into them in the middle of a field. The path was lit by lanterns with green flames burning on the candles. It led away from the circle of stones toward a large mansion barely visible over the tall hedges that surrounded the entire property.

Papa cleared his throat. "Pay attention, children." I turned to face him with the others, letting go of Maman's hand. "While this is a night of socialized frivolity, I expect each and every one of you to conduct yourselves as proper members of this family."

"Yes, Father." "Oui, Papa," We all chorused.

Papa turned to start walking, when there was a tinkling bell noise followed by a faint popping noise from behind us. I turned and saw that an older couple dressed in rich dark purple and black robes had arrived at the Apparition point.

"Lord Archard! Winter's greeting, it is a pleasure to run into you so quickly," The man said as a wide smile appeared on his face. The lady, who was most likely was his wife, also smiled and nodded, "and Lady Archard, a pleasure to see you again." Her eyes then swept over my siblings and I. "These must be your children."

I glanced over at Papa and saw his polite smile (which was barely more than a straight line) was firmly in place, his face remaining as stoic as it always was. He inclined his head toward the couple. "Monsieur and Madame Evernight. It is indeed a pleasure to make your acquaintance so early this night. Before further pleasantries, why don't we adjourn to Malfoy Manor, best not be late or keep our hosts waiting."

Monsieur Evernight laughed and agreed. "Indeed Lord Archard. Please lead the way. I'll admit, Minnia and I are still a pinch nauseous from the trip, but that is the price to pay for such convenient travel."

Maman giggled as well and replied with her usual smile. "We shall see you inside then. Minnia, we simply must speak later, as it has been far too long."

With that, Papa led us down the path toward the manor. Soon we reached an archway made in the hedge wall containing a large iron gate, whose doors were wide open. One by one we followed Papa through the gate and into the front courtyard. In the center of the open space were two elaborate twin fountains with statues of different figures, though we were too far away for me to tell who they were.

We followed the stone path until it connected with a circular driveway that had a few vehicles slowly following each other as they dropped off other party guests. As we approached the steps leading up to the front double doors, Maman moved from the back to Papa's side, leaving me, Fain, and Gérard to bring up the rear.

The enormous dark wood doors opened as Papa and Maman approached, revealing the glittering inside of the manor. As I passed the threshold, the biting cold air instantly vanished, most likely being held back by a shield or ward. My eyes quickly scanned over the entryway. Malfoy Manor was obviously ancient, based on its dark wooden walls and flooring (our old home back in France was the same way), compared to the more modern colors of Heaven's Garden. Despite the dark colors, there wasn't a sense of gloom I had briefly expected, as every inch appeared to be decorated for Yule. Green garlands with silver and gold hung from the large shining chandelier, with wreaths of holly and mistletoe hanging from the walls.

I was broken from my admiration of the sparkling decorations by the Malfoy family waiting to greet their guests just inside the entryway. Lord Malfoy gave a bow to Papa. "Welcome Lord Archard, my Lady Wife and I are pleased you were able to join for this year's Solstice celebrations." He then turned toward Maman and kissed the hand she offered. "Welcome Lady Archard." He then straightened, and gestured to Draco, who was standing at attention at his side. "May I introduce my son and Heir, Draco."

Draco gave a stiff but perfect bow to both my parents as he recited, "I am pleased to make your acquaintance, Lord and Lady Archard."

Papa simply nodded his head to Draco, while I could see Maman smiling brightly down at him.

Lord Malfoy then gestured to Draco's mother beside him. "My Lady Wife, Narcissa.

Papa then kissed Lady Malfoy's hand while Maman gave a simple nod of acknowledgment. Lady Malfoy smiled politely and I admired her dark green velvet dress; the design was elegant and suited her well. "Welcome to our home."

"We are pleased to attend this night festivities," Maman replied.

Papa then gestured to Alaric. "This is my first born and Heir, Alaric." Alaric stepped forward and polite greetings were exchanged between him and the Malfoys. At this rate, I was concerned that we each would have to run through these tedious etiquette greetings. Thankfully, Papa must had deemed any further formal greetings unnecessary; which really made sense since most Lords and Ladies were only concerned with other Lords and Ladies, and their Heirs. "The rest of our children," Papa continued, "Blaire, Carlisle, Dustin, Esme, Fain, and Gérard."

Lord and Lady Malfoy scanned their eyes over each of us briefly, though I noticed that both Lord and Lady Malfoy's eyes seemed to linger and gleam when they met mine. Draco must have spoken of me to his parents, though perhaps Lord Malfoy remembers me from Diagon Alley all those months ago.

"Dobby and Mielle will be able to take your cloaks," Lady Malfoy announced, gesturing us further into the front entryway.

There were then some soft pops and two house elves appeared. I was taken aback when I saw both were wearing pillow cases tied to fit their skinny frames. I was so used to seeing our house elves in their crisp uniforms, that it took me a moment to process that these house elves were not servants; rather they were slaves. I felt unsettled inside, but I sent a short prayer to Mother Magic that these house elves were still treated well despite their enslavement. Dobby and Mielle didn't say a word as they used their magic to gently remove our winter cloaks and float them away to the cloakroom.

After this, we followed Lord Malfoy's directions down the long wide hallway toward the ballroom. Our steps were muffled by the plush green and black hall carpet. The dark wood walls were decorated with old style light fixtures, expensive looking sculptures and tapestries, and various portraits, both moving and unmoving. There was a clear homage to Slytherin House, with snakes appearing in different spots, as well as the continued green, black, and silver coloring. It made sense, I realized, as I remembered Draco mentioning his family had always traditionally been Sorted into Slytherin; and it all blended nicely with the festive Yule decorations.

The further down the hallway we walked, the more I could hear music and the muffled sound of many different voices. At long last, we came to the ballroom. Its double doors were propped open to reveal the brightly lit, enormous room filled with mingling guests in their fancy and colorful splendor. Some witches and wizards matched the many Yule decorations lining the entire ballroom, with their holly and pine wreaths. Others sparkled from the jewels that decorated their dress robes, limbs, and (in some cases) hair.

Maman ushered us inside the ballroom. "Remember to enjoy yourselves."

Papa interjected before we moved further into the room, "But also to conduct yourselves properly should anyone you are unfamiliar with approach you."

We all nodded in acknowledgment and slowly branched out into the mingling crowd, though Blaire snatched Fain and Gérard before they could sneak off by themselves. I loved them dearly, but Blaire was smart to keep them close, in case they were tempted to cause some mischief this evening.

As I moved further into the ballroom, I found it slightly difficult to move around the groups of talking witches and wizards, as everyone was just standing everywhere. As I searched for my friends, I could see house elves circulating through the crowd with floating trays filled with various colored drinks. Since the Malfoys had yet to officially begin the festivities, no one was dancing or enjoying the food laid out on the tables lining the gray stone walls. The only thing guests were indulging in were the drinks.

I continued to wander aimlessly through the crowd and passed by a grand fireplace with a large Yule log burning silver. Despite its raging flames, the heat it gave off was comfortable, and even seemed to warm my magic pleasantly, as it was gently buzzing beneath my skin.

Just up ahead I saw Alaric excitedly greeting Oliver Wood and some others he seemed to recognize around one of the standing tables against the wall. I started moving toward them, thinking I might as well stand with them since I couldn't seem to find my friends. However, before I reached them, I heard my name being called.

I turned around and saw Daphne walking toward me with her parents and sister trailing behind her. I felt a ball of anxiousness form in my chest as I faced meeting Daphne's family for the first time. I ignored it as best I could and I smiled brightly at my friend, accepting the hug she engulfed me in. At the sound of a throat being cleared, we separated, though Daphne kept hold of my left hand and held it up level with my upper arm.

"May I introduce my acquaintance from my Year and House, Esme Archard." Daphne then gestured toward her family. "Esme, please meet my parents, Lord and Lady Greengrass, and my younger sister Astoria."

Since Daphne was still holding my hand, I followed her subtle cue and gave a small dip curtsy to her parents. While etiquette usually only called for pleasantries mixed with polite nodding and the whole hand kissing process, in this setting, young girls such as myself were expected to curtsy to those who held noble titles. While I knew exactly who I would be expected to curtsy to (Maman had us all memorize a list of the noble wizarding families in Britain), I honestly would've forgotten in my anxiousness if it wasn't for Daphne's little reminder. Circe bless her for her intuitiveness.

"Winter's greetings, it's a pleasure to meet you all," I intoned politely as I rose from my small curtsy. I was expecting Daphne's parents to be as politely stoic as Draco's were, but was pleasantly surprised when both freely smiled down at me with obvious warmth shining in their eyes.

Lord Greengrass replied, "Winter's greetings, young Esme. It truly is a pleasure to meet you. Daphne has spoken frequently and highly of you." I felt the knot in my chest vanish into relief as I realized I was worried for nothing.

Daphne spoke up, "Father, may we go to the library with the others now?"

Lord Greengrass smiled lovingly at Daphne. "Of course, Princess. Please take Astoria with you. Socializing with those her own age will make her more comfortable." As Lord Greengrass said this, he had laid his hand on Astoria's head as she slightly hid behind his waist. She seemed even shyer than Daphne had mentioned previously.

"Of course, Father." Daphne easily pulled me along as she swept Astoria up with her other hand. "Come along Tori, I'm sure Sabina and Armin have already arrived." Daphne glanced over at me before refocusing on leading us through the crowd. "With these types of balls, children who aren't made to stay at their parents' sides all gather in whatever manor's library to relax away from the adults. It's also a good way to find each other in crowds; plus, there we don't have to follow all the etiquette rules, since our parents aren't breathing down our necks."

"I see...no wonder I couldn't find anyone, or see anyone younger than my eldest siblings milling around."

We were nearing a double door set on the far wall, which most likely led to the Malfoy's library, when Blaise popped out from between two groups of chatting adults. "Praise Hecate I found you two. Any second longer I had to spend with Mother and her new husband would be too much."

"Blaise? I thought you said you wouldn't be attending," I said in surprise as the three of us stopped to face him.

Blaise made a face of annoyed disgust. "Mother wished to show off Giovanni to everyone, thus forcing me to give up a month of expected warmth of Italian sun."

"I'm sorry you missed out on Italy this winter, but honestly, I'm glad to see you here."

Daphne agreed. "Yeah, Blaise! Now Esme has someone other than Draco and Theo to dance with. At least your mother won't be whispering in your ear about marriage contracts, not with her focus on her new husband."

Something flashed through Blaise's eyes, "Speaking of such things..." He turned toward me sharply with a serious look on his face. "I didn't need a little birdy to tell me this, but Esme, you must be careful around Theo's father, Lord Nott. He hopes to corner you alone and 'inspect' you to determine if you live up to your family name. He has always desired for Theo to make a 'pure' match and you are like a juicy steak hanging in front of a manticore for those of certain mindsets."

I easily understood what Blaise meant, and while I was unnerved to meet such a man, I had no fear of a marriage contact. Papa had not spoken of marriage contracts for any of us, not even Alaric, and Maman had always spoken of us marrying someone we felt sparks of love with.

"Thank you for the forewarning, Blaise, I'll do my best not to be caught unaware; though I doubt I would ever be alone with so many people everywhere."

Any further discussion was halted when Astoria shyly spoke up. "Can we please go to the library now?"

"Yes of course, sorry about that Tori," Daphne apologized to her sister.

Blaise then opened the door for us with a bow, "Ladies first, my lovelies."

Daphne and I giggled at Blaise's usual antics and followed Astoria through the door, who had scurried quickly through, either in her excitement to see her friends or to escape the crowd which clearly bothered her.

I gazed around the library and smiled at how cozy it was. There was a Yule log burning gold in the fireplace, warming the room pleasantly. The walls themselves were lined almost to the ceiling with books, with Yule decorations hanging from the light fixtures and across the ceiling. There were various lounge couches set up around refreshment tables, with groups of children of various ages crowded around and happily chatting with each other.

Astoria made a beeline for a few children sitting on the far side of the room. I blinked when I vaguely recognized the only older girl sitting with them. Daphne whispered in my ear, "That's Mandy Brocklehurst. She's in our Year, though she's in Ravenclaw. Her sister Sabina and Astoria are close friends."

Blaise chimed in beside us, "The boy is actually Millicent Bulstrode's younger brother Armin, though you wouldn't be able to tell if it wasn't for their shared family name."

"He's a sweet boy more often than not, but does have his bratty moments."

I made a humming noise. "I did vaguely recognize her from the Sorting Ceremony, but honestly we have so few classes with the Ravenclaws I really couldn't place her."

Blaise turned his back to Astoria's lounge area to face Daphne and I. "There's no shame in that. You're still new to England, and meeting Merlin knows how many people all the time."

"True...though honestly I don't really feel like I am meeting new people anymore at Hogwarts. I don't know if it's just Slytherin, or just us, but we don't really interact much with the upper Years, and especially not anyone from other Houses."

Daphne had a serious look on her face. "At least for between Houses, it's been like that for decades more or less. My mother once told me that people really stopped interacting with other Houses during the First War, tensions were high enough as is, but there was this group of Gryffindors that terrorized the other Houses, Slytherins especially. Since they were never stopped, students just closed ranks to protect themselves as best they could."

I bet they weren't punished because they were in Gryffindor, that or their family names protected them. I was broken from my thoughts when Daphne seized my hand, "There's Theo!" and started leading me away. Blaise followed behind us over to a collection of couches near the window; where I could see Theo was sadly sitting with the other Slytherins in our Year (minus Draco, who was still greeting guests with his parents).

I internally braced myself for Parkinson's nonsense. I utterly refused to allow her to ruin my first ball with her attempts at cattiness. I felt a squeeze on my hand and realized Daphne was still holding my hand. I lightly squeezed back. Well...if Parkinson does try something, I will enjoy ruining her attempt.

Theo noticed us approaching and made room for us on his couch. "Winter's greetings!" His eyes then lingered on Daphne and I. "You both look very pretty," he complimented.

Blaise wasted no time and plopped down beside Theo, throwing his arm over Theo's shoulder. Blaise pressed his other hand to his chest and with an exaggerated voice said, "I'm feeling a little neglected here, Theo." He then smirked and winked at Parkinson, Bulstrode, and Davis. "Aren't I just dashing this evening."

Davis blushed bright red, though she looked more uncomfortable than anything, while Bulstrode giggled and Parkinson rolled her eyes. "Please~, if anyone looks dashing this evening, it's Draco."

Daphne and I settled together on the other end of the lounge couch from Blaise and Theo. I was careful to settle my skirts so the fabric wouldn't wrinkle or pull. Internally, I rolled my eyes at Parkinson; of course she had to bring Draco into the conversation somehow, even when he wasn't in the room.

She then lifted her face in a haughty way, with her eyes drilling into me. "Speaking of Draco, we're going to be partners for the Fire Moon dance. Who are you all dancing with?"

I didn't know what she was so thrilled about. The Fire Moon dance was just the first dance of the evening and celebrated the light of the moon which warms us through the winter; by no means did it imply romantic intentions. I felt my nose curl at the thought of romance, Parkinson really was too obsessed with boys (especially Draco).

Daphne was the first to respond. "I honestly haven't thought about it. This is the first year we're eligible to even join in."

Theo chimed in, "Just because we are old enough, doesn't mean we have to. Besides, the Blood of the Ancients dance is so much more fun. Father is especially pleased this year since Selestina Warbeck is attending to sing it."

Bulstrode shrieked. "The Selestina Warbeck is here?!"

I lightly rubbed my ringing ear. "That is what Theo said Bulstrode." I turned to address Theo. "I do look forward to at least hearing her perform the Blood of the Ancients."

"It's good you're not getting your hopes up that someone would actually ask you to dance tonight," Parkinson replied, pushing herself back into the conversation.

Before I could snap something back at her, Daphne interrupted in a placating voice, "Pansy, now there really is enough of us to dance with each other. No one will be without a partner tonight." Daphne then smiled at me. "Besides I would love to be your partner for the Blood of the Ancients, Esme."

I smiled back at her. "I would be honored to dance with you." I truly would be honored to dance with my first friend; it was fitting, the dance that celebrated our magical ties with the past, danced with someone I was tied to in the present. I would let this little snide comment from Parkinson go, but if she did one more thing, then I would gladly remind her that she was no match for me.

"Winter's greetings, everyone."

We all fell silent at the loud announcement and turned to the opened library door where Draco stood.

He continued as he moved further into the library, "All guests have arrived and this year's Winter Ball shall commence in a few moments. Anyone wishing to take part in the Fire Moon dance should proceed to the ballroom at this time."

Draco really didn't sound like himself; while his words were dignified, they came across as rehearsed. Still, I followed all those who were Hogwarts age and up out of the library. Though I did notice a few people I recognized from Hogwarts remain behind, most likely to look after their younger siblings.

Daphne and I stuck close to Blaise and Theo as we trickled into the quieted ballroom. The previously existing groups had all moved against the walls of the room, leaving a wide-open space in the center where Lord and Lady Malfoy stood arm in arm.

With a flick of Lord Malfoy's hand, the metal fixtures on all the walls of the ballroom glowed as the carvings of various instruments came to life. They soon began the opening sequence of the Fire Moon dance. Lord Malfoy then twirled Lady Malfoy into his arms and they opened the dance.

Slowly more couples moved forward and seamlessly joined together on the expanding dance floor. Draco did indeed take Parkinson's hand and led her out into the dancing fray. He looked painfully polite as his face remained tightly blank, while Parkinson looked to be barely containing her joy.

Theo even stepped up and bowed to Daphne, asking her to dance. I lightly pushed Daphne towards him, and watched with a smile as the two carefully joined the dancers. I was content to stand watching and just enjoy the soothing melody of the music, but then Dustin appeared to my right, and I couldn't resist accepting his offered hand.

"Best foot forward, petite soeur," Dustin said as he smiled down at me.

I simply smirked back and purposely stepped on his foot as we began to dance. Dustin only winced a little before smoothly guiding us into the stream of dancers. We flowed slowly around the room as we waltzed and moved through the steps of the dance. I couldn't contain my smile as I enjoyed being part of the sway of perfectly moving couples, and the upbeat but resonating music.

Across the room I could see Alaric standing with Wood, as well as a boy around my age that I didn't recognize (though he did resemble Wood), and the same older Hogwarts students from earlier. I blinked in confusion at the fire brewing in Alaric's eyes as he stared fiercely at someone. I craned my neck as I continued to follow the dance sequence and managed to catch a glimpse of what most likely had Alaric's attention.

A bit to my left, Blaire was dancing with a tall and handsome boy. She seemed to be having fun, but I bet ten galleons that Blaire wished she was dancing with George. While I knew the Weasleys were included in Britain's so-called Sacred Twenty Eight, if Ronald's lack of table manners were anything to go by, they were not ones to take part in these sorts of events. This was sad for me - I mean, I was losing out on a fantastic chance to watch Blaire and George literally dance around each other. The light blush across Blaire's partner's cheeks was interesting (and likely why Alaric was looking like a dragon about to spit fire). It seemed George wasn't the only male at Hogwarts to notice how wonderful Blaire was.

I refocused back onto my surroundings when Dustin lifted me up and twirled me around in the air. The next few movements would require my attention as it involved a lot of hand movements between partners. As I grasped Dustin's hands and he began to guide me in a small circle around him, I noticed that he now also had a small frown on his face. Was seeing Blaire dance with some random boy also getting his wand in a knot?

I whispered so only he could hear me, "Am I such unpleasant company, grand frère?"

Dustin lost his scowl and began to look panicked. I giggled softly at him to show I was only teasing. It worked as he calmed down and huffed slightly.

"By no means are you displeasing as a dance partner. Madame Rosé taught you as well as the rest of us."

"Then what is bothering you?"

Dustin released a small sigh before answering slowly, "Our dear cousin Ernie appears to not only be a poor Quidditch player, but a poor dancer as well."

I followed his head gesture and saw Ernie not far from Blaire and her partner. I couldn't help but wince as I watched him be both stiff and unbalanced as he bumbled through the steps with his poor partner, who I recognized as the Abbott girl. Abbott had to be in pain with how frequently Ernie seemed to be stepping into and onto her, yet she had a smile firmly placed on her face. She was either a true friend or determined to get something from Ernie. From what little I knew and gathered about Ernie during the Yule Feast, it was most likely the friendship aspect; it was good for Ernie to have such a caring friend.

I looked back at Dustin and saw him frowning again. I lightly chutted, "Remember to be nice, he is our only cousin, and he likely can't help it."

"It's still embarrassing for someone to be so uncoordinated. Even Carlisle, despite being the adorable klutz he is, still knows how to dance without injuring his partner."

I wanted to defend Ernie, but really, Dustin wasn't wrong.

"Speak of the wizard and he shall appear."

Once again, I followed Dustin's eyes and saw to our far right was Carlisle dancing gracefully with his partner, who was, in my opinion, quite pretty in a pale pink gown that contrasted well with her dark features.

"Who is he dancing with?" I asked.

"Joanna Prince, she's a Ravenclaw in our Year. Smart, and a nice enough girl, but a touch boring to be honest."

Says the boy who seemed to only be able to talk about Quidditch, but I kept that comment to myself. "Carlisle seems to be enjoying himself at least."

Dustin merely grunted in response.

Any further discussion was halted as we entered the final sequences of the dance. One last lift ended with Dustin spinning me in his arms and we were left facing each other. The music ended, and everyone simultaneously dropped into curties or bows to their partners.

I rose after a beat from my curtsy and smiled at Dustin. While I enjoyed dancing with him, the Fire Moon dance was tiring with how long it lasted.

"May I have the next dance?" Dustin asked as he offered his hand.

My smile turned apologetic. "Sorry, but I'll have to decline. I need a break."

Dustin continued to smile as he straightened with a small shrug. "No worries, petite papillon. There is a line of witches waiting to dance." With his own smirk, Dustin sauntered off into the crowd. I giggled at his antics as I exited the slowly filling dance floor and decided to return to the library for the time being.

Oui = Yes

Monsieur = Mr.

Madame = Mrs.

Petite soeur = little sister

Grand frère = big brother

Petite papillon = little butterfly

Extra POVs

Blaire POV

As we made our way down the hallway towards the ballroom, I felt the usual excitement buzzing throughout my body. Though I was only fifteen years of age, I have attended quite the number of balls and parties back home in France. Beauxbatons hosted at least two balls every year, one to celebrate Samhain on All Hallow's Eve and another to celebrate Ostara on the Spring Equinox, and there was a flower festival they held to celebrate Beltane every year.

Despite my excitement, I could not help but feel sad. I missed seeing Aline. Yes I made fast friends with Julie Parkes, but I still didn't feel as close as I did with Aline. George and Fred Weasley have certainly helped fill the void made with Aline's absence. They're almost impish sense of humor often reminded me of her, yet the boys do have their own flair that is entirely endearing on its own.

I wished the Weasleys had been invited, sadly, despite the whole Sacred Twenty-Eight nonsense, they aren't a noble family nor are they considered influential through achievements or in the Ministry. Percy would certainly enjoy the chance to rub elbows with the Elite, and then I could have George and Fred at my side to aid in breaking the ice with all the other Hogwarts students I haven't even met yet.

For all its splendor, Hogwarts really did make it difficult to socialize with others outside your own House. We were separated into our Houses for everything, so unless you bucked up the courage to meet new people while in the courtyard, library, or the corridors, you were left with set groups of friendships from first-year to seventh-year. Well, if I was unable to make conversation with new faces, then I could make myself useful and ensure the jumeaux du diables weren't tempted to cause any sort of incident that would embarrass Father.

As soon as my siblings and I branched out into the mingling crowd, I wrapped my hands around Fain and Gérard before they could sneak off by themselves. "Come along, you two. At these sorts of events, the children are usually sequestered away in the library so they aren't underfoot."

Fain whined, "Ah~ Blaire! We know not to try any pranks tonight."

"Papa made that very clear when we were getting dressed earlier," Gérard confirmed.

I chuckled under my breath as I led them through the socializing groups of older witches and wizards. "I didn't mean it that way. Away from the adults, children are able to have fun without being pressured to follow all the many social etiquettes." I spotted a pair of double doors that most likely led to the library, so I angled our path towards them. "This way you two can meet those of your own age and perhaps even make some friends before the time comes for you two to attend Hogwarts."

Both boys remained quiet as we reached the doors. They suddenly stopped in their tracks and turned to face me simultaneously.

"If we have to talk to kids who talk weird," started Gérard.

"Then you can't hover by us like a ghost," continued Fain.

"Go and dance, we know you want to," they intoned together.

My heart warmed, even as I giggled out loud. I raised my hands in a placating motion. "Bien bien, though I am sure it won't be as bad as you're thinking."

They just grimaced in reply.

"Now, in you go." I opened the door and lightly nudged them through, letting the door close softly behind them so I wouldn't be tempted to follow them in to peruse the books in the Malfoy's library. I had no idea where this hesitance came from, as my youngest twin brothers had always seemed fearless in their energetic pursuit of life. Perhaps this seclusion Father has enforced has made all of us a little too unused to meeting new people.

If that was the case, then it ended here tonight, and besides, my brothers were right. I love to dance and it was time to find myself a partner.

Alaric POV

I was happy when I spotted Oliver standing with Brian and some others not far from the entrance doors, so I didn't have to spend too much time trying to squeeze through the multiple groups of gathered witches and wizards throughout the ballroom. We made eye contact as I approached, and Oliver made room for me at the table they were all standing around.

"Alaric, glad to see you finally made it!"

"There were eleven of us that had to get ready, mind you. That tends to take some time."

"Speaking of younger siblings," Oliver gestured down to the boy who looked around Esme's age standing beside him. "This is my brother Rodger. Rod, this is Alaric, my best mate at Hogwarts, a fif-"

Rodger rolled his eyes as he interrupted Oliver, "He's a fifth year, in Gryffindor, and a Chaser on the Quidditch team. You've only mentioned him every other conversation we've had since you've been home."

I felt my cheeks warm slightly as Oliver sheepishly rubbed the back of his neck and the others standing at the table chuckled.

Brian cleared his throat. "Anyways." Brian nodded to each person around the table as he introduced them. "Alaric, you may not have met them yet since this is their NEWTs year, but this Darrell Laughalot and Henry Swann, from our House. Then this our lone 'Puff Richard Prince, he's a sixth-year and the Captain of the Hufflepuff Quidditch team as one of their Beaters. Axel Davis is a Raven, also a sixth-year, and finally but not least, our dear Kevin Bones a Raven in our Year and the current Seeker for Ravenclaw."

"Oi! What's with the 'current' additive?" asked Kevin, looking offended.

Axel grinned as he nudged Kevin with his elbow from beside him, "He means you suck and will be replaced sooner rather than later by someone with actual hand-eye coordination."

Henry was quick to jump in on the teasing, "I mean come on Kev', Potter's a first-year with only a few months of flying under his belt, and he's a better Seeker than you."

Feeling a little bad for Kevin, I changed the path of the conversation, "Speaking of Quidditch, how are you feeling Ollie?"

Oliver smiled brightly. "I'm back in top form and I'll eat my wand before letting those cheating Slytherins get the best of me again."

Axel chuckled. "Bet you ten galleons you get injured again. You Gryffindors are like a bowtruckle on a doxy's egg when it comes to getting hurt during Quidditch."

My thoughts went back to when Esme declared almost the same thing during one of our family meet-ups. She was so sure that a Gryffindor would get injured during the Gryffindor vs Slytherin game...could she have meant Oliver? No. I shook that thought from my brain. There was no Seer blood in our family tree. I was sure she was joking like Axel was about Gryffindors getting injured, I had just told her how a space had opened up on the team because the seventh-year Angelina Johnson kept getting injured from playing recklessly.

Darrell then interrupted the mounting squabble between Oliver and Axel, "Hold your Hippogriffs guys, no need to get your wands in a knot. Besides, this is a party! No more talk of Quidditch."

Richard agreed. "Now, we're in a room with plenty of charming witches, anyone have anyone in mind they want to dance with?"

As the others began talking about different witches they wanted to try and dance with, my thoughts turned elsewhere, as I had no real interest in dancing with a girl I barely knew. I knew I could count on Oliver to keep me company, as he was rather oblivious when it came to girls trying to flirt with him.

Unlike Blaire, I never had a close friend back in France. Sure, there were plenty of wizards and witches I spent time with, but there was no innate connection. But Oliver just makes things easy, and I can say with complete confidence that I cannot imagine my life without him in it. He never fawned over my last name, and never pressured me to meet my father.

I know I can be a tad...eccentric, but with Ollie I can be myself without shame. I can express all my thoughts, and share parts of myself I usually have to hide from everyone except my family. Plus, he likes Quidditch as much as I do! I can feel the bond that exists between us, and I know I have found a true friend.

Jumeaux du diables = devil twins

Bien = alright

Reviews are appreciated.

Big thanks to my Beta Reader: TheSparkler!