Wrapped Up
Author's Note: Originally published on October 20, 2008
Every Christmas, Harry would receive a lumpy package containing a hand-knitted sweater. And every year, I felt a small, sad twinge of envy.
I'll admit it, I was jealous. Silly, I know. Even though the sweaters were lovely (especially the maroon ones), it was the thought behind them which I longed for. Harry didn't have a family and Molly practically adopted him from the first time they met, so it was quite a meaningful gift for him. I loved my parents very much, but I always felt a bit left out that I wasn't included, like Harry was, as a member of this family that meant so much to me.
Ron would always fuss and complain, but I knew deep down he enjoyed this gift every year. It was something to remind him of home, and of the family he loved very much. They both seemed so cozy in those sweaters, sitting in front of the fire in the Common Room during those long winter nights.
Ron would often lend me one of his when I was feeling chilly, and I secretly loved wearing it. Not only was it a thoughtful gesture from the boy I fancied, but it was like being wrapped up in a gigantic hug from the entire Weasley clan.
Which explains why I'm peering out of a frost-covered window at the Burrow with tears of happiness in my eyes. I sensed his presence behind me, and a strong pair of arms encircled my waist.
"That jumper looks perfect on you," he whispered, tracing his fingertips along the embroidered letters HW.
I smiled at his gentle touch.
"Welcome to the family, love."