It's nearing the end of the ball. I'm sitting in a chair against the wall, ready for this to be over so I
can head up to bed. I'm starting at the floor, lost in my own thoughts about homework and such,
when a shadow crosses my feet.

"Do you want to dance?"

I look up and meet his green eyes.

"Sure."

He smiles, grabs my hand, and leads me onto the floor.

I turn to him, placing my arms around his neck as his go to my waist. We stare at each other,
moving to the music.

Nothing has ever felt as comforting as being in his embrace right now. The weight of my worries
about NEWTs and Voldemort fall off of me, onto his shoulders. His arms have been my stability
in fear, my lifesaver in danger, my appeasement in anger, and my delight in sorrow. But none of
those things compare to the feeling I have now.

I lay my head on his shoulder; he turns and kisses my cheek. I dance on, longing for these few
moments to last for eternity, not wanting to face what lies ahead. But I know that I can carry on,
because I'll always be able to find solace.

In his arms.