Disclaimer: This story is based on characters and situations created and owned by JK Rowling, various publishers including but not limited to Bloomsbury Books, Scholastic Books and Raincoast Books, and Warner Bros., Inc. No money is being made and no copyright or trademark infringement is intended.
Door #10
It was a huge tree, towering several feet up and almost brushing the ceiling of the parlour. I studied it critically. I loved to decorate it and to make the whole house look special but this year, I wanted to outdo myself. A difficult task but I had an idea in mind.
I heard footsteps clatter down the stairs and into the room. Grey eyes went wide at the sight of the giant pine.
"Can I decorate it, Mother?"
I didn't know what to say. How could he know the joy I got from the simple task of decorating the Manor from top to bottom? The dedication in planning and ensuring it all looked perfect? The one thing I could do and truly do well?
"Draco, it's a large tree." I started doubtfully.
"I can do it, Mother, I'm not a child any more." He tried to draw himself up in a vain attempt to prove his worthiness but only succeeded in emphasising his youth. His small face turned up to me, shining with hope and excitement. How could I deny my son anything?
He hustled me out of the room, declaring he needed peace and quiet to work in, but also that it was to be a surprise. I got a glimpse of his face set in concentration, small tongue sticking out of the corner of his mouth before the door closed and I resigned myself to waiting.
"Mother? You can come in now." I entered the room with much trepidation. My heart sank when I saw the tree; it didn't match my vision at all. Clumps of snow threatened to fall off the ends of branches, lopsided baubles that seemed to float in midair in a mishmash of colour, something stringy that I presumed should have been tinsel shone in elaborate loops and whirls.
"Mother?"
I took one look at the tree, one look at his face shining with pride and I smiled at him.
"It's perfect."