Harry and Seamus escorted their beautiful dates to the Great Hall, where the ball was taking place. They opened the double doors to screams of girls who ran over to Hermione, and yells of boys who called Harry over. The girls surrounded Hermione, asking her how she had pulled her stunning look off.
Hermione was wearing a blue, satin dress and matching sapphire jewelry: a choker, dangling earrings, and a bracelet. She had straightened her hair and pulled it up into an elegant twist. Lavender had also done her makeup. Hermione wore silver heels, the most beautiful she found. To Harry, she was beautiful. To Ron, she was an angel.
Harry was with the boys, talking so much that he did not realize that Ron, the bachelor of the ball, was sitting alone, unwanted, and uncomfortably. A slow song started, and everyone watched as Harry strode over to Hermione, took her hand, and led her to the dance floor. Hermione smiled as he pulled her close, but, Ron noticed, it did not meet her eyes. They seemed sad, and as she glanced over Harry's shoulder at Ron, Ron could see that she wanted him. He couldn't take it anymore, and Ron got up and stormed outside, next to the rose bushes. The song was soon over, and everyone went back to their groups.
"So," a voice said, "did you miss me?" It was Hermione leaning against the doorway. "I can't take this anymore, Hermione," Ron said, turning around to face her, "Harry needs to find out. I need to be with you, but in public. I can't keep this a secret much longer." I know, I know," she replied, embracing him in a hug, leaning her head against his broad shoulder, "But I don't want to hurt him." Ron looked down at her, and decided on giving her the surprise he had planned. "I have something for you," he said playfully, pulling out a small jewelry box. He opened it, and Hermione gasped at what it contained. It was the smallest, yet most precious, diamond ring she had ever seen. It was exactly what she had wanted from him. "Oh Ron! Where did you get the money for it!" Hermione exclaimed. "Never mind that," said Ron, slipping it on her finger-no not the left ring finger. Hermione examined it on her hand; it was beautiful. Just then, Harry appeared at the door, "What are you two doing here alone?" Hermione hid her hand behind her back. "Hi Harry!" she said cheerfully, fidgeting with the ring. "Hey, Ron! You look like you could borrow my date," Harry joked, as a slow song started. "Sure, why not?" Ron said, offering his arm to Hermione as she hid the ring in her hand.