Things around Hogwarts had been pretty quiet recently, which wasn't a bad thing at all. Normalcy was always welcome. The students had been told that, that morning at breakfast a special announcement would be given. Rumors and whispers had gone like wildfire already. Finally, Professor McGonagall stood up to the podium.

"Good morning, children. I'm sure you've heard by now that a special announcement is called to be made. Well, here it is. Next month a spring formal will be held on the second Saturday in the great hall. The other teachers and I decided to let you all have a little fun and relaxation before exam stress really kicks in. That's all for now, have a good day of lessons everyone!"

There was uproar, most everyone was excited. Neville looked across the great hall to Hannah and gave her a small grin, which she returned. Dean, Seamus, Ginny, and Hermione all grinned at each other but they all knew they felt the same. It was exciting that there was a formal, but also it was a little disappointing because more likely than not, none of them would be able to go with the people that they wanted.

"Oh, cheer up guys." Hermione reassured them. "We'll still have fun!"

"She's right." Ginny nodded. "And anyway, why can't you two go together? I mean really, if anyone has a problem with it they can have a word with me." Ginny told Dean and Seamus. Both of them chuckled.

"It's alright, Ginny." Dean said. We would go but," He got quieter. "We just don't want the entire school knowing just yet. We'll tell everyone eventually."

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That afternoon after classes, Hermione and Ginny both went up to Hermione's head girl suite. Both of them seemed off and quiet. Both of them flopped down on her bed and exhaled.

"Well, what's wrong with you?" Hermione asked.

Ginny chuckled. "I could ask you the same question."

"I assume we both wish Harry and Ron could be here for the formal."

"I'd venture to guess that you assumed correctly."

"Why are we being so down, Ginny? I mean, we've never been girls to mope over guys…not outwardly at least."

"I'm not really sure. It's not that bad, it's just one of those things. Maybe it's because on years passed we were always with them and now we just expect that."

"I bet you're right."

"It'll still be fun though!" Ginny assured her. "Maybe we can go with Dean and Seamus. I'm sure they're not too happy either. Then it would be easier on all of us."

"Swell idea, we can ask tomorrow!" Hermione replied.

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In the boy's dorm, Dean and Seamus were cuddled on their bunk while Dean sketched in his art book. It was a peaceful night for the most part.

"Dean…are you excited about the formal?" Seamus asked quietly, with his head on Dean's shoulder.

"Um…I guess so. Sort of."

"Why sort of?"

"Well, it won't be as fun, will it? We won't be able to go together and I'm sorry but any other date besides you wouldn't be as enjoyable."

Seamus smirked. "Right." His face got serious now. "…but why couldn't it be me?"

Dean shot him a look. "What do you mean?"

"You heard me right. Why don't we just go together? I couldn't really care less what anyone thinks now. I mean, the year is almost over isn't it? Why not wind it down with something fun? I really want to go with you."

"You're barking mad, Shay." Dean scoffed.

Seamus jumped out of the bed quickly and stood in front of Dean. "Why is that, huh? I thought we passed this? I thought we said we were going to open up more now? It's the perfect opportunity."

"You're right, but I said slowly." Dean told him, becoming impatient.

"I'd say we've been plenty slow…and that says a lot coming from me. The one who didn't want to tell you in the first place."

"That doesn't make a difference. We both have to agree on it."

"I just wanted to have a special night together…"

"You think I don't? You think I like this hiding out act we're doing?"

"Then let's just go! There's no law saying that-"

"NO!" Dean yelled, throwing his sketch book across the room. It barely missed Seamus. He immediately regretted the action once he saw the hurt in Seamus' eyes. "Shay…I'm…I'm sorry. I didn't mean-"

"Save it." Seamus said shortly. "I see how you really feel."

"It's not like that…"

"No, no. Perhaps you're right, Dean. I'll be going with someone else." He strode towards the exit, but turned right before he left. "Maybe we just shouldn't talk at all until the formal. Wouldn't want to let anyone find out."

With that, he was gone.