Chapter Fourteen: Christmas

Christmas day had finally arrived, and did not go unnoticed. The numerous occupants of The Burrow were up and about to exchange gifts and greet company.

Percy, Penelope, Bill, and Charlie had come to The Burrow early this morning to be greeted by their family and guests. When everyone was up, dressed and fed, everyone made his or her way into the parlor. Once everyone was sitting, Ginny made her way over to the Christmas tree and began to pass out the gifts.

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There was only three gifts left under the tree, and Ginny didn't hesitate to pass them out. First she passed a very messily wrapped gift to Lavender. Lavender knew instantly that it was from Ron, and quickly tore off the wrapping paper. Her eyes lit up as she saw the beautiful dress he had given her. She squealed with delight and wrapped her arms around Ron giving, him a thank you kiss. Next, Ginny found a small neatly wrapped box, and handed it to Hermione. Hermione carefully unwrapped the little box and was blown away at the present.

"Oh, Harry!" she said as she wrapped her arms around him and gave him a very happy thank you kiss.

"Go on, Hermione, put it on," Ginny commanded.

Hermione smiled with delight as she put on the beautiful bracelet. Throughout this, Harry smiled, pleased with himself for picking something that she liked. The last present left under the tree was handed to Harry. Everyone was intrigued at what it was, but Hermione was very anxious. Harry slowly unwrapped the perfectly wrapped gift and smiled at Hermione, who looked extremely nervous. When he got all of the paper off, he was puzzled at this box. As he looked it over, he noticed the Potter crest engraved in it. 'How could Hermione know what it looked like? I just learned about it last month,' he thought to himself.

He was about to give Hermione a hug when she whispered, "Open it."

He did as he was told and opened it to find nothing but the velvet lining. He looked at her and she said," Pull that tab right there," as she pointed to it.

Once Harry pulled the tab, he was speechless. Everyone who could see it gasped and looked at Harry.

Harry did not make a movement or sound, he just stared at it. Ron, deciding that he should give Harry and Hermione some alone time; got up and left the room. [As the others did the same.]

After several minutes of complete silence, Hermione saw a tear slid down Harry's cheek. Hermione got off her chair and sat down next to Harry, wrapping her arms around him. He turned to her and whispered, "Thank You."

*~*