Chapter 42- It's that time of year again
"The first semester is almost over" Ginny cheered as they watch McGonagall take up names for people staying during the holidays.
"I'm glad they are allowing this Christmas dance" Inna said to Alana.
"They didn't have this before?" Alana asked.
"I think they are trying to give the students as many distractions as possible during this time" Harry said sitting next to her.
"I see" Alana said as she felt Harry put his arm around her waist.
"The dance is going to be on the 13th once two weeks before Christmas" Hermonine said.
"I don't know, it's all this formal wear stuff. We haven't done that since the Yule ball" Ron said as Alana laughed.
"Well McGonagall said yesterday that the it's not supposed to be like the Yule ball. The dress is suits for the guys and dresses for the girls" Alana said.
"That's even worse" Ron exclaimed.
Alana felt Harry's hand go from the side of her shirt to the side of her bare waist as the group talked.
"I wonder if Lynn can come to the dance, I know she isn't a student maybe I can get someone to ask her" Alana said to Harry as he walked her to history of magic later in the afternoon.
"Michael" Harry suggested.
"I don't about that one, I think he still likes Cho" Alana said.
"Well at least I don't have the problem on figuring out who my date will be" Harry said giving her a kiss goodbye.
"Bye" Alana said as Harry watched her walk away.
"Come on mate" Ron said noticing the way Harry was looking at his girlfriend.
Ron grinned at his friend and laughed.
"What?" Harry said as they entered the common room.
"You want her, there's a look of lust in your eyes" Ron said dramatically.
"Keep it down. Ron you know I love her" Harry said.
"That doesn't mean you can't have lust the best of both worlds" Ron said.
"It is harder now that I told her that I love her" Harry admitted.
"It would be very weird if you didn't want her" Ron tried to say carefully.
"I told you the first two times that we almost, the close calls" Harry said.
"It's different this time, there's more emotion involved. I'm not going to push her" Harry said.
"I admire the both of you" Ron said.
"I can't even tell Hermonine that I want to be with her, so many times I tried" he said sadly.
"We noticed, you just have to say it, things will be so much better when you do" Harry said.
"I'm going to ask her to the dance" Ron said sternly getting up.
"Now" Harry said.
"Yes she'll be in the libarary" Ron said leaving the common room.
Harry grinned and thought about his dilemma. "I need a nap" he thought.
"Did you hear the great news, Filch is leaving for the next three weeks starting tomorrow!" Justin exclaimed running into Alana and Inna in the hallway. "Really?" Alana said happily. "His mother wants him back for the holidays" Justin said. "He has a mother" Alana said as they laughed. "I'm spreading the good word around" Justin said happily. "He's happy" Inna said. "Well my friend Becky is coming next week for the dance, that's part of it" Alana said as they walked into the great hall. "You and Harry looked cozy this morning" Inna said. "Yea" Alana said slightly blushing.
"Can I ask you something?" Alana said.
"Go ahead" Inna said.
"Have you and Todd ever" Alana said as a first year walked passed them. "Ever?" Inna asked.
"Make cupcakes" Alana said raising her eyebrow.
"Oh, making cupcakes" Inna said as Alana nodded.
"Well yes a few times, we taken a break from that" Inna said as Alana eyes widened.
"You have your only 14" Alana exclaimed.
"Well that's was one of the main reasons we stopped" Inna said.
"I see" Alana said calming down.
"Have you and Harry?" Inna asked.
"Well the cupcakes got burned the first two times" Alana said as Inna laughed.
"So your thinking about it?" Inna said.
"Yes, well I am thinking about it a lot" Alana answered.
"I'm sure you know all the risks" Inna said seriously.
Alana was amused at the fourth year's experience on the subject.
"I'm already on the birth control potion because of the times I used the thrill potion" Alana replied.
"Then there's nothing really stopping you" Inna said with a smile.
Alana laughed and said "Thank you"
"No problem, don't worry you'll like it, it's fun" Inna said.
"Ok we're talking about something else" Alana said as the fourth year giggled.
"Ron just asked me to the dance" Hermonine said walking to the girls looking very shocked.
"That's good right" Alana said looking strangely to her friend.
"And I said yes" Hermonine said sitting down.
"That's great" Alana exclaimed hugging her friend.
"The weekend trip to Hogsmade is dress shopping!" Inna said as the girls began to talk about the dance.
A few hours later in the common room, Harry, Alana, Ron and Hermonine are in their pajamas finishing their homework.
"I finished awful Snape's homework. I'm almost done on that paper of grandmother for Lupin's class" Alana said crossing the items out of her organizer parchment.
"I have it all up here" Harry said pointing to his head closing his textbook.
"So mate we have to come into this dance with some style" Ron said as Hermonine sat closer to him. "It's right downstairs in the great hall" Harry said. "I mean our arrival, I say we come in an hour late" Ron said. "We will do no such thing, I hate being late" Hermonine said hitting Ron's shoulder laughing.
"Think about Monine, no one would be there till the first hour" Ron said.
"He's kind of right" Alana said to Hermonine.
"They don't pick our dresses right" Hermonine joked.
"I'll buy your dress if you want" Harry said to Alana.
"I want it to be a surprise" Alana said.
"I'll give you the money" Harry protested.
"It's ok" Alana said as Harry pretended to pout.
"I'll use the money for something else" Harry said as an idea popped into his head
. "Like what" Alana asked.
"I want it to be a surprise" Harry said imitating his girlfriend.
"Whatever Harry" Alana said as Harry wrapped his arms around her.
"I should head to bed" Hermonine said getting up.
Ron got up with her. "Goodnight Ron" she said softly kissing him on the cheek.
"Nite Monine" Ron said blushing from the kissed walking to the dormitory.
"I'm glad they're finally getting together" Alana said as Harry nodded.
"Come here" Harry said motioning Alana to come closer.
Alana smiled as Harry kissed her. Alana sat on Harry's lap and returned the kiss.
He noticed what she was wearing, a white tank top and black shorts.
"I see you like what I'm wearing" Alana said resting her arms on his shoulders.
"Very much" Harry said as Alana kissed him.
"I think I'm gaining weight" Alana said.
"Your just fine, more than that" Harry said pulling her closer.
Alana took a deep breath as he did this. Harry kissed the right side of her neck putting his hands under her shirt.
"All students saying for the holidays must let the headmaster of that house know buy tomorrow afternoon" McGonagall's voice said through the loudspeaker.
Harry and Alana moved away thinking someone entered the common room. Alana rolled her eyes realizing it was McGonagall through the loudspeaker.
"We need to find a place where we can be alone" Harry said holding Alana's hand.
Alana nodded as Harry stroked the right side of her face. Harry sighed and put his arms around his girlfriend as they looked at the fire.
Two weeks later
"Looking for a suit is going to be boring" Ron said getting his wallet.
"I know" Harry said thinking the reason was because of money.
"I've been saving up mate, and Fred and George gave me some money, well me and Ginny a lot for Christmas" Ron said.
"I already have my dress picked out" Ginny said handing Alana a picture from witch weekly.
"Nice" Alana said looking at a blue strapless dress with a spaghetti tie belt, sewn on to the belt was a flower.
"All of you ladies are welcome to join that mad house in Gladrags, I already have it reserved" Ginny said as the girls glared at her.
"That was a good idea, let's hurry up so we can be the first ones there" Hermonine said putting her sneakers on.
"The guys section will be more relaxed than the girls section" Harry said as he spotted Alana and the girls walking in front as McGonagall took names.
"We will be leaving Hogsmade at 7 pm which leaves all of you 6 hours" McGonagall said.
"In a rush" Harry said giving his girlfriend a kiss.
"Sort of I want to get to Gladrags before well it turns crazy" Alana said.
"We should of went during the break, on Tuesday. Could of used my cloak" Harry said.
"It's ok, Lynn is so lucky. She went into London and just got a dress. I can't believe this bet her and Michael have on each other" Alana said.
"It's only so they won't have to admit they like each other." Harry said.
"By betting who can fall in love with the other" Alana said shaking her head in amusement.
"I am going to win that bet from that cousin of yours, her ego needs to come down a noch" Michael said.
"Yea, I guess you would know that" Alana said with a laugh.
"Funny" Michael said.
"Lynn will be in Hogsmade helping Carly out with the construction for the coffee shop" Alana said raising her eyebrow.
"Good, I have to give her the invitation" Michael said.
"She got her dress already" Alana said. "
I know I saw it" Michael said.
Harry looked at Alana and said "He saw his date's dress"
"That is a totally different situation Harry and you know it" Alana said with a laugh.
"Question Mike how are you going to pick up Lynn from Hogsmade" Alana asked. "
That my dear is my little secret, she's not going to know what hit her" Michael answered as the group entered Hogsmade.
"I'm going to go with the girl's to the woman's section of Gladrags." Alana said to Harry.
"I'll be in the men's section and be out by the next hour" Harry said as Michael laughed. Alana narrowed her eyes and kissed him goodbye.
Harry grinned as Michael and him starting walking over to the rest of the guys.
"How are you going to pick up Lynn" Harry asked.
"Well a few days ago she told me that her favorite book it's a muggle book called Cinderella and in the book she goes to the ball in a pumpkin carriage. So I am going to recreate that." Michael said.
"You found a spell to create a pumpkin carriage?" Harry said amused at the lengths Michael would go to win this bet.
"Yes, I tested it twice" Michael said as the guys entered the clothes shop.
Girls were chatting and giggling loudly from the women's section.
"Glad I'm in this section" Ron said looking at an all black tie suit. "Not a bad price either" he said as he took it into the fitting room.
Dean and Seamus took two classic black and white tuxedos into the fitting room. Harry kept looking around he spotted a black tie suit. He took it off the hanger and saw the vest that came with it.
"Give it a try potter" Harry thought going into the fitting room as well.
"Ginny got her dress" Pavarti exclaimed as Alana tried to push her way through some girls. "
Where's Hermonine?" Alana asked Luna.
"Trying on a dress" Luna said holding a two toned orange and red strapless gown.
Alana groaned noticing her friends find their perfect dress.
"Your Alana Deerr?" a saleswoman asked.
"Yes" Alana said miserably.
"Oh let me take you to this tailored section" the saleswoman said leading Alana out of the madhouse.
"You should of called that's what your cousin did, but the dress she wanted was only made in London" the sales woman said opening the door.
"Wow" Alana said walking into a pink room filled with dresses on moving mannequins.
"If you need help I'll be in the office" the woman said as Alana nodded.
"Inna didn't find her dress yet" Alana thought.
"Miss, I just want to bring my friend up here, I'll be back" Alana said.
"No problem, just one though" the woman said.
Alana walked downstairs and spotted Inna looking at a few dresses.
"Inna" Alana tried to whispered.
"Where have you been" Inna said Alana motioned her to come over.
"Where have you been" Inna said again.
"Just come" Alana said leading her downstairs. "
Wow" Inna said.
"That's what I said" Alana replied.
"Come on, I'm sure we'll find something" Alana said as the girls looked through the racks.
"That was easy" Ron said as Harry, Michael and him walked out of Gladrags.
"Yea" Harry said as he spotted Hermonine and Ginny walking to Lynn.
"Where's Alana?" He asked.
"Still inside" Ginny answered.
"Hello there" Michael said as Lynn smiled. "
Got your tux Mike" Lynn said.
"Yes, you won't be able to resist me in it I'll tell you that much" Michael said as Lynn laughed.
"The ego on you is the size of great Britain" Lynn said as she noticed Cho looking over at her.
Lynn grinned as Michael turned around and saw Cho.
"I'll tell you this much, I'll make a better date than well whatever you call that. You all really had a crush on her.
There are girls in Salem that are first years that look better than her" Lynn said as Dean and Seamus laughed.
"I found it" Inna exclaimed picking up a white dress.
"It looks very greek goddess like" Alana said smiling.
Inna smiled and ran into the fitting room. Alana continued to search.
"No, no" she said.
"No luck yet Ms.Deerr" the saleswoman asked.
"No" Alana said.
"How about this one?" The woman said holding a satin V-neck white gown.
"I don't know it looks too sexy" Alana said.
"Just give it a try" The woman said as Inna came out.
"That's your dress Inna" Alana said looking at her friend in awe.
"Really?" Inna said looking in the mirror. "How much?" Alana said out loud.
"Whoa it's a little pricy" she said looking at the price tag.
"I'll help you get it, I need to start spending Deerr money anyway" Alana said as she took the dress into the fitting room
"She's very picky" Inna whispered to the saleswoman.
"I heard that" Alana said putting the dress on.
Alana walked out of the room. Inna and the saleswoman gasped.
"What!" Alana exclaimed looked at herself in the mirror.
"Wow" she said realizing how beautiful the dress actually was.
"You look beautiful" the saleswoman said adjusting it for her.
"It just needs to be adjusted a little bit" she added taking out her wand and pointing at Alana's sides.
"That's better, it fits like a glove" The woman said doing the same thing to Inna's dress.
"Alana turn around" Inna said looking at her back.
The back of Alana's dress was a crossback with draped detail.
"I'll take it" Alana said happily not wanting to take off the dress.
"Harry is going to, he's going to love you in that dress" Inna said as Alana smiled.
"There they are" Hermonine said watching Alana and Inna leave Gladrags.
"That took long for you two" Hermonine said holding her wrapped dress.
"You can say that" Alana said as Inna grinned at her.
"Let me see your dress" Lynn said trying to open it.
"No you'll see it next week" Alana said. Lynn rolled her eyes.
"Hey it's payback for not inviting me to London and not tell me about the tailored room" Alana said raising her eyebrow.
"You found out for yourself anyway" Lynn said as Hermonine and Inna laughed at the cousins.
"Rosmerta would you consider it, I mean Fudge rented out the place so I can certainly do it as well" Harry said as Rosmerta sighed.
"Harry you know that you could, it's just that your all 16 not adults yet. And I doubt Dumbledore and McGonagall know about this" Rosmerta said.
"Well hostess's and the waiter's will be here and it's about 14 to 18 people that's all.
Alana's cousin will be a few door's away" Harry said.
"We just want a place to hang out after the dance. There is one thing that I want also" Harry said.
"What's that?" Rosmerta asked.
"A room" Harry said confidently. "
Harry" Rosmerta said.
"If there is any damage I will pay for it that's how confident I am about this" Harry said. "Well alright" Rosmerta said.
"Here you go" Harry said handing her a bag of Galleons.
"Thank you Harry" Rosmerta said giving him a peck on the cheek. Harry walked happily outside.
Harry spotted Alana and walked up to her.
"You got your tux" Alana asked.
"Well my suit" Harry replied looking at the wrapped dress.
"So secretive" he said dramatically.
"You'll know why when you see my dress" Alana said noticing where he was walking from.
"You'll know next week too" Harry said putting his arm around his girlfriend as they walked around town.
Chapter 43-The Christmas dance
"Alana" slender black girl said struggling to hold her suitcase.
"Becky" Alana exclaimed meeting her friend near the entrance.
"I'm here" Becky exclaimed holding a suitcase.
"You let your hair grow" Alana said getting a better look at her friend.
"I brought curlers by the bunch your godmother sends her regards.
"She gave me enough for half the girls in your dorm" Becky said.
"You like my hair?" Becky asked looking at her hair.
"I like it" Alana said.
"Where's Justin" Becky asked as they entered the great hall.
"In class doing a make up exam" Alana replied.
"This is insane" Becky said looking at the ceiling.
"I know" Alana said.
"Where is crazy Lynn at?" Becky asked.
"In Hogsmade it's not far from here, that's a long girl talk story later when we get ready" Alana said as Becky laughed.
"And where is your boyfriend?" Becky said.
"I really don't know he was in the library last time I saw him, he's been running back and forth from Hogsmade saying it's a surprise later. You and Justin are invited after the dance ends at midnight" Alana said.
"Mysterious" Becky said smiling not noticing Justin walking towards her holding a carnation.
"Hi" Justin said as a huge smile appeared on Becky's face.
"Justin" Becky exclaimed giving her friend a huge hug.
"You look great" Justin said smiling.
"So do you, thank you for inviting me" Becky said.
"I'll pick you up near the astronomy tower at 7 I'll give you a tour of Hogwarts before the dance actually starts, Alana will tell you where it is, I have to get going" Justin said about to walk away. He took a deep breath and gave Becky a kiss on the cheek.
"Aww" Alana said as they walked towards the astronomy tower.
"The girls in your dorm are not going to have a problem right" Becky asked.
"No I told them about you, you and Lynn might have problems with one girl, but she's really a good person at heart" Alana said.
"Oh no, I'll brace myself" Becky said.
The girls ran right into Harry and Ron. "Hi there" Harry said giving Alana a kiss.
"You must be Becky" Harry said.
"Yes and your Harry" Becky said giving him a hug.
"This is my best friend Ron" Harry said as Becky smiled at Ron.
"Password" the fat lady said. "Candy Cane" Ron answered.
"When do you think your going to be ready" Harry asked before Alana and Becky walked to the girls dormitory. Alana just smiled at him. "I'll talk to you by parchment then" Harry said with a laugh giving his girlfriend a kiss.
"Harry is so cute" Becky said as they entered the dormitory.
"I know" Alana said.
"Hey" Hermonine said wearing a bathrobe, trying to dry her hair.
"This is Becky, Becky this is Hermonine" Alana said.
"Hi" Hermonine said shaking her hand.
"Do you need help" Becky asked putting her bags down.
"I'm trying to find my Sleekeasy's hair potion" Hermonine said trying to look for it.
"Dry your hair, we'll find it" Alana said looking around the dorm for it.
"Found it" Becky said moving a pillow out of the way and handing it to Hermonine.
"Thank you so much Becky" Hermonine said rushing to the bathroom.
"Do you need to get here?" Hermonine said as Becky looked at the bathroom.
"Yea I have to curl my hair" Becky said taking out her curlers and her Sleekwasy's hair potion.
"Good you can tell me more about the school's in the states" Hermonine said.
Alana smiled glad that the girls were getting along. "How am I going to style my hair" she thought.
"We don't have to do anything till 6:00 Seamus said putting a corsage next to the window.
"The girls are making this into a production" Dean said lying on his bed.
"Alana has the best looking friends, Justin is a lucky man" Seamus said.
"Your going with Lavender!" Ron said.
"She's not my girlfriend, I'm just speaking the truth" Seamus said as Harry laughed.
"So there's an after dance thing going on?" Dean asked.
"Yea not a word only a few people know, I rented the three broomsticks for a few hours tonight." Harry said.
"Wait we know Filch is gone but how are we going to get there without no one noticing we're gone" Dean said.
"With the marauders map and everyone going and leaving Hogsmade at the same time" Harry said.
"I'm in" Seamus said happily as Dean nodded.
"Salem sounds a little like Hogwarts just the scheduling times are different" Hermonine said.
"Yea, I would love to go here though, so much freedom" Becky said as Pavarti walked in.
"Where is Alana?" she asked.
"Downstairs helping the fourth years with their hairstyles." Hermonine said.
Pavarti got a better look at Becky and said "Who are you?"
"I'm Alana's friend, Becky" Becky replied.
"Alana told us she was going to stay here for the holiday's remember" Hermonine said.
"Oh yea, how long are you going to be" Pavarti said.
"I'm done knock yourself out" Becky said leaving the bathroom rolling her eyes.
"Sorry that took so long" Alana said trying to catch her breath. "It's cool" Becky said looking at a issue of witch weekly. "You met Pavarti" Alana said. "Yea, she's something else" Becky said sarcastically as Alana laughed. "Well I was talking about her, she isn't that bad once you get to know her" Alana whispered. "I'm here to have fun, I like Hermonine a lot, Lynn will be here. Lynn is not going to like that girl" Becky whispered. "I know, but her twin sister is so nice you'll love her as much as you love Hermonine" Alana said as Becky smiled.
"It's 6:00" Ron said walking into the bathroom.
"Already" Seamus said waking from his nap.
"Good, I was getting bored" Dean said following Ron.
"This is going to be a memorable night" Seamus said to Harry.
"Becky you are probably going to be ready before all of us" Alana said,
"That was the idea' Becky said putting on a little make up in the mirror.
Pavarti looked at her while she did this. "Is there a problem" Becky said forcing a smile.
"No" Pavarti said surprised.
Alana looked at her friend who smiled.
"You should start getting ready" Hermonine said looking at Alana still in her sweatpants from this morning.
"It's only oh no! 6:30!" Alana yelled and ran into the bathroom. The girls laughed and continued getting ready.
"That was fast" Ron said as the six year boys entered the common room in their suits.
Harry put his blazer near the chair and said. "We have 90 minutes to go before our dates are ready" Harry said as he saw a fourth year girl running from downstairs.
She looked around the common room and grabbed a brush. She ran back upstairs.
"Girls get the speed of light when it comes to these things" Dean said as Todd walked downstairs wearing a tuxedo.
"Can I join you guys, the guys are arguing upstairs on who their date actually is" Todd said. "Sure" Harry said.
"Alana I'm going to go" Becky said getting her red purse. "Wait let me see' Alana said holding a towel on her head. "Aww" she said. "Wait I need to show you here the tower is" Alana said. "I'll find it, just get ready" Becky said. "You can't miss it" Hermonine said. "You look very nice" she added. "Thanks, see you later" Becky said walking down the stairs.
"Fighting over a date" Seamus said as the boys laughed.
"Yea, it looked ugly" Todd said as they heard footsteps.
"One of the girls probably forgot something" Ron said as Becky walked down wearing a scarlet colored A-line dress, with a deep V-back with a flower at the centerback.
Her hair down in curls focused on her face.
"Wow" Seamus said as Dean hit his shoulder.
"Hi" Becky said nervously. "Hey Becky your early" Harry said.
"Not really I'm supposed to meet Justin at the astronomy tower" Becky said.
"I'll walk you" Harry said opening the door for her.
"Thanks Harry" Becky said as they walked.
"What's the update upstairs?" Harry asked.
"Well Alana just really started getting ready, she was helping the fourth years earlier, while me and Hermonine were in the bathroom" Becky said honestly.
"Ok" Harry said as Justin spotted Becky.
"You look incredible" Justin said handing her a corsage.
"It goes with my dress" Becky said happily.
"I'll see you guys later" Harry said walking back into the common room.
"It's seven o clock do you know where your dates are?" Seamus joked.
"The update is that there about to put on their dresses, except for Alana who is doing her hair" Ron said as Harry groaned.
"Hair is done" Alana said fixing her bun and putting a crystal lion hair pin on the side. "Make up" she said putting on her diamond studs. She looked at her dress "Ok only blush and lip gloss" she said as Hermonine agreed.
"Let me zip you up" Alana said walking over to her.
"There, how do I look" Hermonine said turning around to Alana.
Hermonine was wearing a black strapless a-line gown with bow detail at the side front hem. Her hair was sleek like the Yule Ball wearing crystal droop earrings.
"Beautiful" Alana said happily to her friend.
"Good now let me help you it's already 7:20" Hermonine said sitting Alana down on her bed.
"This is gong to be a great night" Alana said as Hermonine took out a compact of pink blush.
"I know, I can't wait" she said.
"Close your eyes" Hermonine said taking mascara out.
"You don't need any make up Alana" Pavarti said crossing the line between nice and bitter. "Thanks Pavarti" Hermonine said finishing. "Get your dress on" Hermonine ordered Alana. Alana ran over to the dresser where it was hanging. "I get to see it finally" Hermonine said as her, Lavender and Pavarti gathered around her. "Here it is" Alana said as the girls gasped. "It's beautiful so simple" Lavender said. Pavarti reluctantly nodded. "I know" Alana said walking into the bathroom.
"Todd I'm ready" Inna yelled walking down. Inna was wearing a Grecian style rolled shoulder straps off white gown, with ruffles in the front.
"Hi" Inna said happily entering the common room.
"Wow" Seamus said as Harry shot him a look.
"You look gorgeous" Todd said taking her hand.
"Ok this isn't cool where are the six year girls, the six year boys are waiting for you" Seamus yelled.
"Seamus be quiet" Ginny said walking down. Ginny was wearing a strapless light blue gown with a spaghetti strap belt. Attached to the belt was a pink butterfly. Her hair was in a French braid.
"Whoa" Dean breathed out as Ginny took a seat.
"They are somewhat ready give them a few minutes" Ginny said as the guys cheered.
"Alana we have to get going" Pavarti said.
"I'm coming out" Alana said walking out of the bathroom fixing her dress. The girls gasped looking at their friend.
"You look beautiful, that's not even the word for it" Hermonine said.
"This dance is going to be awesome" Lavender said in her blue taffeta dress with a draped neckline. Her hair was in a bun like Alana's but a blue Hygrenga was on the side. "I'm heading down' she said happily.
"You look beautiful Pavarti" Alana said getting a better look at what she was wearing it was a deep read floor length dress with shirred shoulder straps and stramers down back. Her hair was finally down from the pigtail Alana usually sees her in.
"Thanks" Pavarti said walking down. Alana looked at herself in the mirror and put on some lipgloss.
"You look fine let's go" Hermonine said taking her black clutch. Alana nodded and grab her white clutch as well.
"Wow" Seamus said as Lavender walked down.
"Hey date" Lavender said as Seamus put the corsage on her wrist.
"Hey, you look wow, amazing" Seamus said as Lavender smiled. Pavarti walked down and smiled at the group.
"I have to meet Wayne near the astronomy tower" She said walking out.
Hermonine walked in next. "Hey Ronald" she said sweetly. Ron just started at her. "Ron?" Hermonine said amused by his reaction.
"Stunning" he said.
"What" Hermonine asked.
"You look stunning" Ron said as she smiled.
Harry sighed becoming more impatient for Alana to come down.
"She's coming" Hermonine said as she heard footsteps.
Harry stood up as Alana walked into the common room.
"Whoa" Harry said looking at his girlfriend.
"I'm sorry I took so long" Alana said. Harry continued to look at his girlfriend.
"What?" she said.
"Nothing, your beautiful" Harry said as Alana smiled.
"We're all here let's head to the dance" Seamus said as the group agreed
. Harry offered Alana his arm, she smiled and took it.
The group walked downstairs towards the great hall.
"Who is sitting where?" Ron asked Harry.
"Becky and Lynn are sitting with us" Alana said quickly.
"Of course" Harry said assuring her.
"You look wonderful" Harry said giving her a kiss.
"You look very handsome" Alana said looking at Harry's suit.
"I don't feel like taking pictures" Seamus groaned, looking at the line.
"I guess we'll just wait here" Harry said as Becky and Justin walked over to the group.
"Look at you" Becky exclaimed giving her friend a hug.
"I want to take a picture" she said taking out a small camera.
"You and your pictures, Becky wants to be a photographer" Alana said to Harry.
"Oh" Harry said as Becky took a picture of the couple. Alana handed Becky her camera to take another picture.
"My turn" Alana said taking Becky's camera.
"You guys look so cute" Alana said as Becky and Justin pretended to groan.
"Where is Lynn" Becky said looking around.
"They should be here by now" Alana said as Hagrid and Lupin walked over to the group.
"Look at all of you all grown up" Hagrid said.
"You look sharp professor Lupin" Alana said.
"You look lovely Alana" Lupin said as she smiled.
"We'll clear the traffic for pictures, enjoy the dance" Lupin said as the men walked away.
"So that's the professor Lupin you told me about" Becky said as her friend nodded.
"He's one of the nicest people I ever met" Alana said looking in her purse for the Christmas card she wanted to give him.
"What in the world is that" Justin said pointing outside.
The group walked outside and saw a pumkin carriage coming to the front entrance. The carriage stopped, a short man with white hair who Alana thought looked like George Washington opened the door.
Michael stepped out in an all black tuxedo, he took a deep breath and offered his hand. Lynn stepping out of the carriage, wore a charcoal colored taffeta ballroom gown with a pewter wrap sash. Her hair was in a blown out half ponytail. She had diamond studs on similar to Alana's. She looked up and saw a flash go off.
"Becky!" she yelled. Alana started to laugh.
"You look like a princess" Becky said giving her friend a hug.
"You really pulled this off" Harry said looking at the carriage.
"Of course" Michael said looking at his date.
"The both of you look like something in a storybook" Alana said as the couple stood together.
"They both have dark hair, that's why" Becky said as the group walked back into the castle.
"Come on the picture line has cleared" Hermonine yelled. Her and Ron were next.
"Ron sweetie you have to look at the camera" Lynn said as Ron looked at Hermonine. "
Your cousin has the biggest mouth doesn't she" Michael said as Lynn grinned.
"That's because she sings" Alana said. Lynn gave her an angry look.
"Really, the weird sisters are playing tonight maybe you can sing after" Michael said.
"No way, I'm just a guest" Lynn said.
"You two are next" the photographer said pointing to them.
"I am not singing" Lynn said smiling for the camera.
"I guess Ms.Kurth is scared" Michael said putting his arm around her as the camera flashed.
"I think they're falling for one another" Becky said.
Alana nodded and said "Yea, I've been saying it all along"
"Next" the photographer said. Becky and Justin walked into the Christmas background.
"Can you use a different flash, this background and that flash can make us look yellow" Becky said.
"And how would you know that" the photographer asked.
"Well that's the projector 500 and its supposed to be for beach type background" Becky said.
"That's right" the photographer said impressed by her knowledge, switching the flash.
"Next" the photographer said as Harry and Alana.
"Aww" A few girls said on the side.
"Oh please" Seamus said as the group laughed. Harry stood behind Alana putting his hands on her waist. Lupin looked over at the couple and smiled.
"She went with that creep" Ron said watching Cho and Roger Davies waiting on line. Cho was wearing a strapless, bright red satin floor length gown.
"Who's the guy" Alana asked.
"Roger Davies he was Ravenclaw captain last year, he plays with Krum" Harry said.
"Well good for her" Alana replied. Cho got a glance at Michael and Lynn entering the great hall.
"Wicked" Alana said. The great hall was transformed, instead of the usual house tables, they were replaced by round tables. The tablecloths were white, the china was silver and gold. There were four Christmas trees placed on four corners of the castle.
Harry, Alana, Ron, and Hermonine found an empty table in the middle.
"This place looks beautiful" Lynn said as Michael pulled her seat out for her.
"Where's Becky?" Alana asked. She saw Becky and Justin talking to Wayne and Pavarti.
"Becky can't stand Pavarti" Hermonine said.
"I know" Alana said shaking her head.
"When you left to help Inna, Pavarti was asking her all these questions, but you know how Pavarti asks questions" Hermonine said.
"Yea" Alana said.
"Wait we don't like Pavarti?" Lynn asked.
"Not that she's just well, she's hard to deal with at times. Lynn give her a chance" Alana said.
"I didn't do anything" Lynn said.
"I know you" Alana said.
"I'll do my best" Lynn said as Becky and Justin walked to their table.
"Did you guys try the butterbear" Dean said holding a champagne glass filled with it. "
They have it in different flavors" Ginny said sitting down.
Dumbledore stood up from the head table "Welcome, welcome, to the first annual Christmas dance"
"This is a celebration of the ending of the first semester and the start to a wonderful holiday. Enjoy tonight, all of deserve it" he said as music started to play. Alana started looking at the trees.
"Do you want to take a closer look" Harry asked. "Yes" she said happily as they got up.
"For the holidays, grandmother and Kay would take us to New York. We would live like muggles and stay at the plaza hotel. We visit this huge tree in Rockefeller center and we would ice skate on Christmas Eve. These trees are so much bigger" Alana said as they walked to one that was decorated in silver.
"The holidays was big in your house" Harry said holding her hand.
"Well that's when everyone didn't blackmail, cheat or steal from one another. And it's the holidays everyone lightens up. I bet the Dursley's did" Alana said
. "No" Harry said grinning as he shook his head.
"No way, you got a gift at least" Alana said
"No, come on I told you about the Dursley's" Harry said as Alana looked down.
"That's awful, I'm sorry" Alana said.
"Well that's over, look where I am now" Harry said looking around the great hall. Alana smiled and kissed him.
"Oh no" Alana said looking at who was talking to Michael and Lynn.
"What?" Harry said. The couple watch Cho and Roger talking to Lynn and Michael. Harry and Alana walked back to their table.
"Hi Cho" Harry said. "Harry, Alana" Cho said flashing a fake smile.
"Harry good to see you again" Roger said shaking his hand.
"You must be Alana" Roger said.
"Nice to meet you" Alana said dryly sitting down.
"Cho that is such a nice dress, I remember getting one myself a year ago, I almost got the same dress when I got this little ensemble in London. Imagine how silly we both would look wearing the same dated dress" Lynn said taking a sip of water.
Cho laughed and looked over at Roger
. "I guess you should be heading back to your table" Lynn said offering Michael her hand to dance.
Alana and Harry smiled as Cho and Roger walked away.
"Good thing the both of you came, it looked like it was going to be a fist fight between Roger and Michael" Hermonine said looking at her menu.
"Over Cho?" Alana groaned.
"No Roger insulted Lynn, asked her why she wasn't spending time in the states where she's from" Ron said.
"Anyways to more important things, what is this surprise" Alana asked her boyfriend.
"It's a surprise" Harry said taking a sip of his butterbear.
"I already showed you my dress" Alana said trying to reason.
"Yea because it's the dance" Harry said.
"But" Alana said as Harry kissed her.
"Hey your friends are still here" Ron said as the couple broke the kiss
. "He does that to shut me up, it works every time." Alana said.
Harry nodded in agreement.
"I'll be quiet about this because I want to dance" Alana said as a slow song started to play. Harry smiled and led her on the dance floor.
Alana smiled as the couple found a place to dance. Ron and Hermonine followed them. Alana put her arms around Harry's neck as she felt his hands wrapped around her waist. He lowered his head towards hers for a kiss.
"What are you thinking?" Alana asked.
"This has been one of the best nights of my life" Harry said holding her tighter as they danced. Alana kissed him on the cheek.
"I love you so much, Alana" Harry whispered in her ear.
"I love you too" Alana whispered.
The song ended as the bell for dinner rang.
"Are they going to put on some actual dance music not all this slow dancing" Lynn said blushing as her and Michael sat down. "I'm sure they will" Alana said amused as dinner appeared.
"Look at Malfoy and Parkinson" Ron said looking over at the Slytherin table. "She actually looks pretty and not like a pug" Ginny said noticing what Pansy was wearing. Pansy wearing a strapless white dress with black embroidery. Her hair was in finger waves. "I hear that they're finally dating" Justin said. "Who cares" Alana said as faster music started to play. "We're dancing" Lynn exclaimed grabbing Alana's and Becky's hand.
The three girls ran to the dance floor which was completely empty.
"There a wild bunch aren't they" Ron said as the girls motioned Hermonine, Justin, and Ginny to get up and dance. Harry smiled at his girlfriend dancing and turned back to the table.
"Everyone, meet near the antechamber at 12:30" Harry said.
"That's an half and hour after the dance" Seamus said.
"I know, the professors will be upstairs by then" Harry said.
"That was fun" Alana said to Hermonine catching her breath. She spotted Lupin looking out the window. "He looks almost sad" Alana thought walking back to her table. "Worked up a sweat" Harry said jokingly as his girlfriend narrowed her eyes at him. "Your dancing the next song, but I have to do something first" Alana said taking a sip of water and getting her purse.
"Merry Christmas Paige" Lupin whispered softly looking out the window.
"Professor" Alana said.
Lupin turned around and smiled. "Hello Alana, I saw you dancing earlier" Lupin said.
"Merry Christmas" Alana said handing him a Christmas card.
"Thank you Alana" Lupin said touched by the card.
Alana smiled and said "I guess I'll see you here for Christmas. I'm staying, my cousin is also. It's going to be the first time we're away from the family" Alana said.
"Well hopefully it will be a happy one" Lupin said.
"It already is" Alana said giving Lupin a kiss on the cheek.
"Merry Christmas Alana" Lupin said as she started to walk away.
Lupin opened the Christmas card and notice a gift certificate to Flourish and Blotts. He put it aside and saw the front of the card that had a father and daughter decorating the tree. Lupin smiled and opened the card.
"I hope your holiday is filled with happiness during these dark times. I have learned a lot from you during my first semester in defending the dark arts but also the type of person I want to be. What I'm trying to say is thank you for the support you gave me during this semester. I noticed that you like to read so I hope my gift to you adds to a very happy holiday. Thank you again Professor. Merry Christmas
Yours truly,
Alannis Emera Deerr"
Lupin very touched looked over at Alana and Harry dancing.
"Why does she remind me of Paige" he thought noticing Alana's facial features.