Disclaimer: I do not own Harry Potter. This story is meant purely in tribute to the original work.
Neville did not think he had ever felt so terrified before in his life. He recalled his first flying lesson on a broom so many years ago. Dangling high above the ground and wondering how much pain he would experience smashing to the ground. That was peanuts compared to this. Neville remembered facing Voldemort and his army of followers. He remembered locking eyes upon that ghastly visage. He recalled feeling almost a physical force repelling him under the malevolent gaze of so many dark wizards and witches. That felt like just a flesh wound now. This was a challenge unlike any other. Neville was sure that if he allowed himself to stew in this any longer his mind would melt and drain out his ears.
The London Eye is not your average, everyday Ferris Wheel. The massive structure takes 32 ten ton capsules up to a height of 135 meters (443 feet) at a rate of 0.9 kilometers (0.6 mile) per hour. Under ideal conditions, one can take in a breathtaking view of about 40 kilometers (25 miles). The attraction is very much a landmark in London and a very popular tourist destination. This is one reason why Neville considered himself extremely lucky that there were only three other people in the capsule he and Luna were riding in. He dreaded the thought that they might be stuck in a crowded, noisy capsule. Neville had no idea if Luna liked Ferris Wheels or if she had ever even been on one. However, she had not shown any reluctance when Neville suggested they visit the London Eye and she seemed to be enjoying the experience. He was glad for that since he was nervous enough already. Neville's throat seemed impossibly dry and he was sure his heart was beating so loud that Luna could hear it from where she was standing. As he watched Luna taking in the view, he noticed The Eye had reached the apex of its revolution. The Thames River wound its path into the distance and Palace of Westminster lay in front of them. "This is it.", Neville thought, "This is the moment." He took a deep breath and prayed that his voice would not fail him. Neville reached into his pocket and fumbled for a moment to bring out a black, velvet-covered box. He then dropped to one knee beside her. "Luna?", he began in a voice that barely belied his nervousness.
Luna turned, glancing up to meet Neville's voice. She looked down a split second later, surprised to find him at a level below her height. "Yes Neville? What are you doing down there? Is the view better there? Should I kneel too?" Neville, to his relief, managed to catch her hands before she could move. He looked into her inquisitive eyes and was immediately consumed with the thought of how much he loved just having her in his life.
How he treasured their friendship.
How she seemed to shrug off those who thought she was "loony" so easily.
The way she would twirl a stray lock of hair around her finger when she was engrossed in her reading.
The way her eyes would light up at the thought of new discovery.
The way her eyes would brighten even more when she returned from travelling or he returned from work.
The way she could melt away the stress and tension of the day in him with a simple touch.
The way she could giggle at his clumsiness and it was not insulting.
How beautifully she could sing, in tune even though she did not have the strongest of voices.
How she didn't care if she knew all the lyrics to a song, she would make some up on the spot to follow the melody.
The way she managed to keep her wand behind her ear for hours at a time.
The way that she danced like no one was watching.
The way that she danced even when she knew people were watching.
The fact that she still danced with him even though he had stepped on her toes a few times.
The way she held him close with her arms, legs, and her entire body as she encouraged him to reach that wonderful peak while they were making love.
That unique smile she would direct only at him, that only he could tell was different, that let him know it was just for him, that told him she loved him.
That distinct musical quality to her laughter.
The way she would patiently listen to his stories about work or herbology.
The way he knew she was being sincere in her interest because she paid close enough attention to ask questions.
The way she could still make him feel afflicted by wrackspurts.
How she would never admit that she was a "pudding snob" and her favorites were the ones she made herself.
The way that she still liked to go barefoot even though no one was stealing her shoes.
The way she could make him feel warmth that spread from his heart out to his extremities with a just a look.
"Yes", Neville thought, "This is definitely what I want." He opened the black, velvet covered box to reveal a rose gold ring set with a square, velvet black stone, flanked by a sapphire on either side. Tiny sapphires twinkled along the band to disappear into the velvet in which the ring was nestled. "Luna Lovegood", Neville began with a slight tremor to his voice, "Will you marry me?"
Luna's eyes widened and her mouth dropped open in surprise as her hands came up to her lips. She looked from Neville's face to the ring and back again as if to reassure herself that this really was happening. "Yes, this IS real!", her brain confirmed a split second later. This was quickly followed by Luna feeling a pleasant warmth in her cheeks as she thought of how much she loved just having Neville in her life.
How she treasured their friendship.
The way he was so courageous and dedicated to his duties.
The way he was so modest about the great things he had accomplished.
The way that no matter how hard he tried, the hair on the rear, right quarter of his head could never quite be completely tamed.
The way he would twirl his wand like a drumstick in his hand when he was deep in thought, yet he somehow lacked the dexterity to catch anything thrown to him.
The fact that he remembered to put the toilet seat down (Luna surmised that his grandmother had him well-trained).
The way he still said, "See you in my dreams" to her whenever either of them had to travel.
The way he swept her up in a bear-hug, picked her up, and twirled her around when they were reunited.
The way he would patiently listen to her stories about magical creatures.
The way she knew he was being sincere in his interest because he paid close enough attention to ask questions.
That distinct, goofy quality to his laughter when he found something absolutely hilarious.
The fact that he had a perfect sense of rhythm even though he could not carry a tune in bucket.
The way he tried so earnestly to hold on long enough for her to reach that wonderful peak while they were making love.
The way he snuggled with her afterwards.
The way he was so careful with her when they danced (Luna had long since forgiven him for stepping on her toes).
The way only one of his eyebrows would rise when she said something he found completely off-the-wall.
The cute way in which he would subconsciously rub the back of his neck with his hand when he felt embarrassed or self-conscious about something.
The fact that whenever she was troubled with the feeling, "Why would a guy like him be with a girl like me?", he made her realize, "Bollocks to that question."
The way he could make her melt on the inside when he told her or showed her that he loved her.
Luna suddenly realized Neville was still waiting for answer, although he was already looking quite anxiety ridden. She chalked that up to Neville being Neville and not to her surprise. "Yes", Luna thought, "This is definitely what I want." Luna knew she needed to answer the man patiently kneeling before her and she somehow managed to find her voice again. As she brought her hands down from her mouth, Luna nodded and spoke in a soft voice, "Yes." Neville released a sigh of relief as he broke into a wide grin. "Yes, I will marry you Neville Longbottom."
"I…I am s-so relieved. I felt so nervous! I mean, I thought there'd be a good chance you'd say yes but there is always that voice of self-doubt. I kept on rehearsing it over and over in my mind until I-"
Neville found his increasingly incoherent babbling interrupted by Luna's lips on his own. "You were very brave Neville. My dear, true Gryffindor."
"I was so afraid I would drop the ring, or stammer too much, or just do something to mess it all up."
"You were perfect Neville." Luna's eyes drifted downward to the box in Neville's hand. "It's absolutely beautiful."
"Oh right!", Neville mentally shook himself back into action. He pulled the ring from the box and took Luna's hand to slide the ring onto her finger. He stood, taking both of her hands into his. "Thank you for making me the happiest and luckiest man in the world Luna."
"Thank you for having me Neville. And thank you for planning all of this."
At that point, the two of them became aware of the applause coming from the few other people in riding in the capsule with them. They had no idea who these strangers were and they, likewise, had no idea who Luna and Neville were. It was obvious that none of that mattered at the moment as there were smiles all around. The newly engaged couple found themselves shaking hands and being congratulated by their fellow riders.
Some Time Later
Neville took in a deep breath. He knew he shouldn't but he could not help himself as he edged toward the door. It was not that Luna was in any real danger but he still felt as if she were in some sort of peril. Neville knew the notion was logically absurd but emotions paid no heed to logic. He knew what Luna was facing, which was why he felt some anxiety on her behalf. Neville knew that his grandmother, Augusta Longbottom, was a formidable figure and his beloved fiancée was now facing her at his grandmother's request. She had only said that she wanted to talk with Luna…alone. Although there was nothing to indicate anger in her tone, Neville knew that look in her eye. Augusta was going to wring Luna's mind out like a wet rag until she heard all that she wanted to know. Neville knew it was futile but he had to at least make an effort at mounting a rescue mission should things go horribly wrong. "I'm being an utter fool!", he thought, "What could possibly happen?" Neville was suddenly struck with a vision of the kitchen in flames, holes in the walls, and Luna and his grandmother dueling like Bellatrix Lestrange and Molly Weasley. He shook off the vivid image and strained to listen in on the conversation going on behind the closed door.
"So my grandson finally worked up the courage to ask you to marry him."
"Yes, it was very sweet. He proposed to me on The London Eye. Have you ever been on it?"
"No." Augusta answered in a clipped tone. "Did he ask for your father's blessing to have your hand in marriage?"
"No."
"Hmmm…."
"Neville didn't need to. My father won't mind. He's not one for traditions like that."
"….hmmmmmm….."
"Besides, it is my decision and not my father's."
Augusta's expression did not change as she took a sip from her tea cup. "I remember you decided to end your relationship with my grandson some years ago."
Luna looked down briefly at her own tea cup cradled in her hands. "Yes. It was my fault. I had thought we were not going to work out in the long run. I was wrong. I should have believed in us more. I am very fortunate that Neville did. And that he did not give up."
"Yes. Neville has recently displayed a tendency to stand up for what he believes in. I must say that I have been pleasantly surprised."
"I have seen Neville do that for several years now. I've always thought that a part of his character."
Augusta's gaze leveled directly at Luna. "I sincerely hope that you do not have a change of heart in future as you did in the past."
Luna noticed that Augusta's tone had not been overly sharp but it did not have to be. The point was clear. Luna met Augusta's determined gaze as she spoke, "Mrs. Longbottom, I do take my promises very seriously. I would not have given my word to Neville if I had any doubts or thought otherwise. I cannot change the past but I give you my word about our future."
Augusta noticed that Luna's tone had matched her own. Neither of them were aware of a soft popping sound Neville was certain he had heard in the back of his skull. He was certain the sound was the result of several of his synapses fusing due to his listening in on the conversation. Augusta eyes glanced down to Luna's hand before speaking again. "That is a beautiful ring Neville selected."
"Thank you, I like to think so as well."
"Black diamonds are a rather unusual choice for an engagement ring."
"They are. Neville said that they represent those who are independent-minded and usually don't follow the crowd. I think he was quite thoughtful to pick out a ring like this."
"Indeed. I don't think I have met many who have your stalwart independence and determination to forge your own path, regardless of what others think. You would do well to remember that in the future. That ring will serve as a good reminder."
"I like to think Neville is a good reminder of that as well. I consider myself blessed to have him in my life."
Augusta's expression softened almost imperceptibly. Had Luna not been watching her so intently, she was sure she would have missed it. "I think he is equally as blessed to have you in his life." And with that, Luna knew she had passed some sort of test in Augusta Longbottom's book. She intended to marry Neville with or without his grandmother's blessing but she admitted that this did make things a bit easier. Augusta smiled for first time since they had sat down across from each other. "I know at times that I may seem harsh to my grandson but I do care deeply about his happiness. I do believe with all sincerity that you do make him happy. Welcome to the Longbottom family Luna!" Luna smiled broadly at Neville's grandmother. "And with that, I think we've kept my grandson waiting long enough." Augusta flicked out her wand with practiced ease and the door to the kitchen suddenly swung open to dump Neville unceremoniously to the floor. Luna had to admit that she was not surprised to see her fiancé on the floor. Augusta pretended not to notice as she spoke, "Neville, would you be dear and refresh our tea cups please?"
Later
Neville was not surprised that Xenophilius Lovegood asked to speak with him in private much like his grandmother did with Luna. What he was surprised with was the actual conversation itself.
"So my daughter accepted your proposal of marriage?", the older man half-asked, half-stated.
"Yes. I'm sorry I did not ask for your blessing first.", Neville answered.
Xenophilius waved him off and smiled. "No need for that, I've never put much stock in that tradition. I do have one important question however."
"Yes, Mr. Lovegood?"
"It's Xeno or Xenophilius if you must, remember? Or Dad or Father if you really insist on some sort of formality. My question is, you're still an auror correct?
"Yes."
"And you will be in that profession for the foreseeable future?"
"Yes."
"Are you now or have you ever been a member of or party to The Rotfang Conspiracy?" The smile faded from Xenophilius' face and his tone became serious.
Neville was glad this was not the first time he had heard this subject. Otherwise, his reaction would most likely have been inappropriate. "No."
Luna's father broke into a wide smile. "Well, that's good enough for me! Welcome to the Lovegood family my future son-in-law!"
Neville's relief lasted all the way to dinner. Xenophilius insisted on filling Neville's plate and hefted the platter of roasted chicken pieces in one hand. "So Neville, which do you prefer, leg or breast?" Neville was struck silent for a moment as he looked to Luna. Her smile remained on her face and it seemed as if she did not even hear the question, let alone pick up on the subtext. As Neville looked up to his future father-in-law's face, he noticed the man seemed to be examining him like a new species of human…or insect.
Neville took a moment to gather himself before answering. "Wing, please."
It was going to one of those types of relationships.
Some Months Later
Not many people visited this part of the coastline. Indeed, Luna reflected that she only knew the place because Bill and Fleur Weasley's residence was only a few kilometers away. That is what made this location so aptly named. The Wayfarer's Chapel is located in a grove of Cornish elm on a rather lonely cliff overlooking the Cornwall coastline. Neville had pointed out that Cornish elms were, ironically, no longer actually found in Cornwall. The local magical residents had managed to preserve some to keep some of the trees in their native land. Neville had managed to look sheepish after rattling off that information, as if he had said too much. It was one of the things Luna found endearing about him and her smile told him that he had done nothing wrong. As soon as Luna and Neville had laid eyes on the chapel, they knew this was the place. The chapel itself was constructed of glass for as much of the structure would allow. A few beams and frames in the walls and roof were all the wood that was used in the structure. The doors were also wood and ornately carved. The floor and pews were all made from the same type of stone while the altar was carved from white marble. A few stone buildings and a modest garden rounded out the rest of the property. The wide, glass panels in the walls and ceiling of the chapel allowed for breathtaking views of the elms, sky, and coastline below the cliff. The only drawback was that the chapel itself was quite small but neither Neville nor Luna wanted a large wedding. They could think of no better place to seal their union than in a place that symbolized their bond with flora and fauna, respectively.
"I must say Nev, your color is looking far better than Ron's was before his wedding.", Harry observed.
"I have fair skin. The curse of a redhead.", Ron protested.
"I think that's because I've been waiting for this day for longer than I can remember. I just may not have known it the entire time.", Neville answered as he tried to straighten his tie for the umpteenth time since he tied it.
"Well, it sure beats losing your stomach multiple times.", Ron dryly observed as he moved Neville's tie back to its proper place.
Seamus Finnegan walked in to the room serving as the groom and groomsmen's dressing room. "Alright Nev, it's time. Ready to go mate?"
"Thanks Seamus. I'm as ready as I'll ever be. Let's go!" In his enthusiasm, Neville managed to trip over the leg of a small table. To the former classmates' collective horror, the burning, scented candles on the table tumbled to the carpet. Four wands flicked out and four shouts of "Aguamenti!" rang out.
*FWOOSH*
"Bloody hell!"
"You've got to be kidding me!"
"Drochrath air!"
"What the bloody hell does that mean?"
"Really? Is this really the time for that?"
Meanwhile
Luna smoothed out an imaginary wrinkle on her wedding dress. Ginny was slipping on her shoes when her face took on a curious expression. She reached into her handbag and pulled out a small pocketwatch. She watched as a hand on the watch swung in one direction and then suddenly back to its original position. Ginny frowned for a moment and then shrugged, placing the watch back into her handbag. Luna looked on with concern for her old friend. "Are you alright Ginny?"
Ginny looked up to face Luna and smiled. "Just fine! I just had…a funny feeling…"
"About what?", Hermione asked, pausing in her final adjustment of the flowers in Luna's hair.
"Nothing. I'm sure it's nothing. I have to admit Luna, I was little skeptical at first, but green suits you.", Ginny observed while changing the subject.
"I briefly considered white but then I found this dress and I absolutely loved it."
"I'll admit Luna, I'd be surprised if you did pick white.", Hermione observed and then thought better of her answer. "Not that I mean it that way! I mean that I'd actually be surprised if you went the traditional way." Hermione's brow furrowed as she struggled verbally, "I mean-"
Luna smiled at her friend. "I know what you mean Hermione. No harm done."
As Hermione smiled with relief, there was a knock on the door. "Come in!", Luna called out.
George Weasley poked his head in, looking distinctly uneasy. "Hello ladies! Umm, just wanted to let you know that the guys are just a bit delayed. Nothing big! Everything's alright! Just a bit delayed, that's all."
Hermione wasn't fooled. "George, what's wrong?"
"Nothing's wrong! Nothing at all, just running a bit behind schedule, that's all. I think I hear Mum calling! See you soon!" The door clicked shut as George slipped away.
"I don't think I heard Molly's voice, did you?", Luna calmly observed. She and Hermione turned to face Ginny.
Ginny offered a weak smile. "So…what made you pick green again Luna?"
Author's Note: First, I want to send a big Thank You very, very, very much to Acacia Carter for graciously allowing me to use a ring design she created. I was unable to create one myself and I thought her's was absolutely gorgeous. I cannot thank her enough for allowing me to use the design.
The Wayfarer's Chapel does exist. It is located not far from where I grew up in California. The design is almost exactly as I described it in the story. The chapel is an extremely popular wedding venue. It is not uncommon for local girls to dream of having their wedding there ever since they were children. The waiting list for the chapel is often about one year out. I was married in The Wayfarer Chapel's sister chapel in Missouri. The design is much the same but glass is not used in the ceiling. The frequency of hailstorms there would end up destroying the ceiling.
"Drochrath air" is the Gaelic equivalent to "Damn it" in English. I have no idea if Seamus speaks Gaelic or not. Given that this is Seamus, it's a fair bet that even if he's not fluent, he would know that phrase.
I had a very difficult time writing Neville's conversation with Xenophilius. But I felt there had to be one so I kept at it. I also figured that if Molly Weasley has an enchanted clock, it would not be too far a stretch of the imagination for Ginny to have one as well.
Thank you to everyone who is still reading, favoriting, adding to alerts, and reviewing. I think a few more chapters and I'll have this wrapped up. Thanks for staying with this story everyone. A special thanks to The Sixth Sense's review. I had that thought a few times myself. I'm glad you brought it up as it has helped keep a check on my writing. I have to make a conscious effort at times to make sure I am not drawing too much on that genre and that I am trying to develop their characters within their realm.