The Yule Ball
Part 2
Summary: Harry has asked Ginny to be his date for the ball. Now, the next task is the ball. Will it be a night they both will remember?
Lily carried the garment bag out of her bedroom. She had flooed Molly that morning for a quick catch-up. During their conversation, Molly mentioned Ginny's letter telling her Harry had asked her to the ball. Lily took the opportunity to tell Molly she had a dress Ginny could wear for the ball.
"It's a dress I've had for a couple of years. It's just hanging in my closet. I think I wore it to a Ministry function three or four years ago." Lily smiled. "It would have been heading to a charity shop anyway. I think the colors would suit Ginny."
Harry's dress robes were black with hints of green. James had picked them and thought they would suit Harry the best compared to the other options in Harry's size. The dress was emerald green with hints of gold and silver. A few alterations, and it would fit Ginny perfectly.
James brought both the dress and dress robes when he came last weekend. The dress robes were Ron's replacement for the ones Molly sent him. The dress robes were old, like Lily's dress, but more modern compared to the ones Molly had sent. James had them hanging in his closet, and like Lily's dress, it would have eventually gone to a charity shop.
When Molly asked how the alterations for Ron's dress robes were going, Lily explained the material came apart when she tried to alter them. Really, she did them a favor. She burned them.
Lily quickly added, "James has some dress robes Ron could borrow. It's no trouble at all. I can alter them to fit Ron. Actually, he can keep them after the ball. They would be heading to a charity shop too."
"If you're sure," Molly said.
"I'm sure."
Lily asked Molly if she wanted to be the one to tell Ron. Molly told her it was okay for her to tell him. She got her chance later the same day. Ron came down to her quarters later that day with Harry. Harry had come to collect the potions homework she checked and his Charms book.
In response, Ron hugged her.
"Thank you, Lily," He said.
"You're welcome."
Lily left her quarters and headed for the Transfiguration classroom. Minerva had asked her to assist with dance lessons. She had been teaching Harry over the last couple of weeks. He has shown improvement since their first lesson. To her surprise, Harry had been the one to ask her to teach him.
"I don't want to make a foul of myself," He admitted over a cup of hot chocolate. "I don't want to disappoint Aunt Minnie and be an embarrassment to the school."
He even said as much to Minerva. She pulled Harry into a hug, whispering assurances in his ear.
"You will never be an embarrassment."
She walked into the Transfiguration room as Mr. Flich brought in the Gramophone. A few Gryffindor students were already in the classroom. Most of them were fourth-year students and older. But there was a few third-year girls. Ginny was among them.
Minerva approached her as she made her across the room.
"Thank you, again, for helping, Lily," She said.
"You're more than welcome."
"Does Harry know you're helping?"
"Yes, he does."
She told him over the weekend. He was staying in her quarters because James had come for the weekend.
"I would have asked James to help, but the man has two left feet."
Minerva chuckled. "I know."
Lily walked around, conversating with the students. She was walking around the classroom when a voice behind her said, "Hi, Mum."
She turned around to find her son standing there.
"How was your day?" She asked.
"It was fine," Harry said. "I got an Exceeds Expectations on my potions essay."
Lily smiled. "Good job. I was impressed. I didn't need to mark a lot of corrections this time."
"Professor Snape even admitted it was the best of my essays he had seen."
Lily chuckled. "Put that memory in the Pensive. I know your father will want to see that."
"And Sirius and Remus," Harry added.
"Especially Sirius," Lily noted. "I need you and Ron to meet me in my quarters after this. Bring Neville too."
"Okay, Mum."
Harry wandered over to where Ron and Neville were talking with Seamus. When he approached, he leaned in between them. He must have told him what she said. They nodded, and Harry sat down in the seat beside Ron.
"Who is Neville going with?" Lily asked Minerva.
"Luna Lovegood."
When the last of the Gryffindors arrived, Minerva closed the door.
"If I may have your attention," She called. The chatter quieted down. Everyone turned to face their head of house.
"Thank you. As I said before, the Yule Ball has been a tradition of the Tri-Wizard Tournament since its inception. As representatives of the host school, I expect each and every one of you to put your best foot forward. For over ten centuries, the house of Godric Gryffindor has commanded the respect of the wizarding world," Minvera paused to look over the crowd of students. "I will not have you over the course of a single evening besmirching that name by behaving like a babbling, bumbling band of baboons."
"Today, we will be doing dance lessons."
Some of the boys groaned. Lily noticed Harry, Ron, Neville, Fred, and George were among the handful of boys not bothered.
"Silence," Minerva called. "I repeat what I said. I will not have any of you embarrass the house of Godric Gryffindor. Am I clear?"
There was a chorus of "Yes, Professor McGonagall."
"Good. Now to dance is to let the body breathe. Inside every girl, a secret swan slumbers longing to burst forth and take flight. Inside every boy, a lordly lion prepared to prance."
She looked over the crowd of students. "Now, do I have a volunteer?"
Harry checked to see if Lily was paying attention. When the coast was clear, he sneaked his hand over behind Ron's back. He tickled the back of his neck, causing Ron to jerk up.
"Mr. Weasley?"
"Yes?"
"Will you join me?"
Harry gave him a gentle shove. Neville leaned over his seat to whisper, "He's going to kill when he finds out it was you."
Fred and George were standing behind them. Ron wouldn't know it was who tickled the back of his neck.
"He won't know," Harry replied.
George whispered in Harry's ear, "Remind Fred and me never to get on your bad side."
"Now, place your right hand on my waist," Minerva directed.
"Where?" Ron asked. Harry was sure Ron's eyes couldn't poke out of his head if he tried. Harry leaned forward, covering his mouth with his hand. He and Neville both were trying to keep from laughing.
"My waist," Minerva repeated. A wolf whistle came from somewhere in the crowd. Ron knew it was one of his brothers. She guided his hand to her waist and took his hand. "Bend your arm."
When they were in the correct positions, she turned to Mr. Flich.
"Mr. Flich, if you please."
Mr. Flich took that as his cue to turn on the Gramophone.
The wizarding waltz began to play. Minerva began the steps, counting them.
"Alright, now, everyone, pick a partner. Boys, up on your feet!"
Ginny stood up among the group of third-year girls. She was looking around for a partner when Harry approached.
"Shall we?" He asked, offering her hand.
"It wouldn't hurt to practice," Ginny noted.
They joined a few of the others as Minerva and Ron separated. As Minerva walked around, Ron found Hermione.
"Can I have this dance?"
"Yes, you may, Ronald," She replied.
"Say, Hermione, do you have a date?"
"No, do you?" She asked.
"No. Would you like to go with me?"
Hermione was silent, thinking. Then she smiled softly. "I would love to."
Ron smiled.
Neville, meanwhile, was looking for a partner.
"Need a partner?"
He turned to the voice to find Lily. Blushing, he nodded.
Minerva walked around to the partners, correcting them if needed. She nodded approvingly at Harry and Ginny.
"Good job," She said as she passed them, patting Harry on the shoulder.
Dance lessons lasted about an hour. Since it was close to dinner time, some students decided to hang out in the Transfiguration room. Others headed on to the Great Hall. Ron, Harry, and Neville followed Lily to her quarters.
"Ron, I finished your dress robes. James had bought a new shirt. I want to make sure it fits. Neville, I need to check the length of your trousers and see if I need to cut off more. Harry, I finished yours. I'll ask Dobby to bring them to your dorm."
"Thanks, Lily."
"Thank you, Lily. Gran wants to know what's your charge."
"I'll talk to Augusta myself. There's no charge, Neville."
"Okay."
As they entered Lily's quarters, Neville headed to Harry's room to change. Ron went into the bathroom.
"I talked to Dad. He's going to come here for Christmas. He'll go home before the ball starts."
"Is that why you asked for me to come down here?" Harry asked.
"Yes. Dad would stay for the ball. We're doing Christmas on Boxing Day. So Dad will go home to start getting things ready."
"Okay. What about our Christmas?"
"We're doing that Christmas Eve. We'll go to the feast in the Great Hall and then come down here. We'll open a few presents here, then open the rest at home."
"Okay."
Lily knew this Christmas was going to be different. They would be celebrating at Hogwarts, Harry's first one. She was happy James was coming to spend Christmas with them. He had never missed a Christmas with Harry yet.
It was going to be different this year. They will look back on this Christmas with fond memories. It will be a Christmas they will talk about for years to come.
OoOoOoOoOoOoOoO
"So, you finally asked her," Harry said, turning to Ron. He, Ron, and Neville were in the fourth-year boys' bathroom, getting ready for bed. Harry had just finished brushing his teeth, and Ron had just changed into his pajamas. Neville was already in the bathroom when Harry and Ron came in. He had brushed his teeth and had stepped into the toilet stall. The door was cracked enough for him to have privacy and to hear Harry and Ron's conversation.
Sometimes Harry, Ron, and Neville would be in the shower. No one commented on when they would shower at the same time. They would converse with each other from their stalls, shouting over the sound of running water.
Neville had just gotten back to the tower from working in the Greenhouse. He had taken an interest in Herbology over the summer. He had volunteered to help Professor Sprout with some replanting. He headed straight for the shower when he got to the fourth-year boys' dorm.
"I did," Ron confirmed, picking up his toothbrush. "Can I borrow some toothpaste?" Molly was sending a care package with new toothbrushes, toothpaste, and other toiletries with their presents. It hadn't arrived yet.
"Sure." Harry handed him the tube, making a mental note to tell Lily he was about out. He needed to tell her he was almost out of shampoo, too. "I'm just surprised. I didn't think you would ask her."
Ron shrugged. "Who else would I ask? Hermione and I are friends. I know I could have asked someone else. After the Fleur fiasco." Ron paused when Harry snorted. "Shut up."
"I get it," Harry murmured.
A toilet flushed. Neville stepped out of the toilet, approaching the sinks.
"What happened?" He asked.
"Ron asked Hermione to the ball," Harry informed him.
"About time."
Ron spit the foam out of his mouth. "Were you two waiting for me to ask her?"
"We thought you might," Neville said, washing his hands.
Harry bumped Ron's shoulder. "I saw Viktor Krum hanging around Hermione in the library. He was sitting across from her the other day. He did try to move her bag one time. It was sitting in the chair beside her. She told him she was saving it for her friend. I took that as my cue to go over and sit with her."
Ron looked at Harry in the mirror. "Does he flirt with her?"
"Depends on what your definition of flirting is," Harry replied.
The three boys walked into the dorm, approaching their beds. Ron continued their discussion.
"What do they talk about?"
"He asks her about school work, mainly. I heard him talk to her about his Quidditch career.
"She sighs when she listens to us talk about Quidditch," Ron noted.
"Yeah, she had her 'bored' face on."
"Hermione has a bored face?" Neville asked.
Ron nodded. "She does. We've only seen it when we're talking about Quidditch."
"So," Harry began. "We'll keep an eye on Hermione. He could be harmless, but it wouldn't hurt."
Ron nodded again. "Agreed. And Harry?"
Harry turned to his best friend. "Yeah."
Ron hit Harry in the face with his pillow. "That was for earlier. I knew it was you, you git."
OoOoOoOoOoOoOoO
Fred and George had had great success with their Canary Creams, and for the first couple of days of the holidays, people kept bursting into feathers all over the place. Before long, however, all the Gryffindors had learned to treat food anybody else offered them with extreme caution, in case it had a Canary Cream concealed in the center. George confided to Harry that he and Fred were now working on developing something else. Harry made a mental note never to accept so much as a crisp from Fred and George in the future.
Snow was falling thickly upon the castle and its grounds now. James told Harry about the snowball fights he, Sirius, and Remus would have.
"Remus joined in on the snowball fight?" Harry asked, talking to James over the mirrors.
"Well, it wasn't really his choice."
Remus's head came into view. "It wasn't my choice when you and Padfoot pelted me with snowballs!"
"But did you have fun?" James asked. Remus couldn't argue with him there.
Ron and Harry smashed themselves in the dormer in between their beds. They watched the snowfall out the window.
"Wonder if we can have a snowball fight like your dad and his friends used to have," Ron pondered.
"Who do you want to hit with a snowball?" Harry asked.
"Besides you?"
"Git."
"Boys, it's time to head down to lunch," Hermione called. Not needing to be told twice, Ron and Harry slipped on their shoes and headed down to meet Hermione.
They made small talk as they headed down for lunch. On the way, they bumped into Malfoy.
"What's this I hear, Weasley? You asked the Mudblood to be your date to the ball."
Harry and Ron both whipped around, ready to hex him. Hermione waved to somebody over Malfoy's shoulder.
"Hello, Professor Moody!" She called loudly.
Malfoy went pale and jumped backward, looking wildly around for Moody, but he was still up at the staff table, finishing his stew.
"Twitchy little ferret, aren't you, Malfoy?" said Hermione scathingly, and she, Harry, and Ron went up the marble staircase laughing heartily.
After lunch, the boys managed to talk Hermione into going out into the snow. She found she couldn't say no when they gave her the puppy dog eyes. When they added the pout, she definitely couldn't say no.
They bundled up in their coats, hats, and gloves before heading out to the winter wonderland the Hogwarts ground had become. The snow crunched under their feet. Ron found Fred and George building snowmen. He decided to leave them alone for now. But he did decide to make a snowball and throw it at Harry. It hit him in the back.
Harry stopped, turning around to face Ron.
"Oh, it's on Weasley," He said.
And the snowball fight began. Harry and Ron pelted each other with snowballs. Most of the snowballs missed Harry or Ron, landing past them on the snowy ground. When one Ron threw hit Hermione, they stopped.
Calmly, Hermione bent down, gathering snow in her hand. She made a snowball and walked a few steps closer. She smirked at Ron as she threw the snowball. Ron tried to dodge it, but it hit him in the side of the head.
Harry threw his head back and laughed. He was still laughing when he was hit with a snowball.
Hermione laughed.
"This is war, Granger."
The three of them threw snowballs at each other, laughing, and were having a good time.
Up at the castle, Lily watched from a hospital wing window. Madam Pomfrey and Nurse Wainscott were cleaning the hospital wing. They decided to take advantage of the holidays and deep clean the hospital wing. It was one of three times a year they deep cleaned the hospital wing. They cleaned again at the end of the school year and before the new school year.
Madam Pomfrey fluffed the pillows, noticing Lily was looking out the window.
"What are you watching?"
"Harry, Ron, and Hermoine. They're having a snowball fight." She said.
She watched as Hermione was hit with not one but two snowballs. Chuckling, she watched Hermione pick up a snowball and throw one at Ron. Picking up another one, Hermione threw it at Harry. The one she threw at Ron hit him in the shoulder. But the other one missed Harry, barely.
She tried again, this time, she hit him in the back.
Lily cracked open the window for a brief moment to hear the laughter from the three teenagers.
"It is getting stuffy in here," Nurse Wainscott commented.
Madam Pomfrey opened a second window. She looked out over the grounds, watching the other students enjoying time in the snow.
"When was the last time you saw Harry like this?" Madam Pomfrey asked.
Lily paused. The question had made her think. She couldn't recall when she had last seen her son without a care in the world. Then she realized when.
"Before his name came out of the Goblet of Fire," She said. Harry carried a lot of pressure on his fourteen-year-old shoulders. He shouldn't have to.
When she left the hospital wing, she headed to her quarters. As she approached the portrait of Nurse Helga, Harry, Ron, and Hermione turned the corner.
"Did you have fun?" She asked.
"Did you see us?" Harry inquired.
"I did. And I assume you're here for some hot chocolate."
"If it's no trouble," Hermione said.
"No trouble. I was thinking of having some myself." She said the password. Helga opened, allowing them entrance.
"Thanks, Lily," Hermione and Ron chorused as they walked in.
"Thanks, Mum."
"You're welcome. Get the biscuits out of the cupboard. I want to hear about the snowball fight."
She started making the hot chocolate, warming the milk in a pot. Harry set the biscuits on the table as Lily poured in the powder.
"I could have made it, but," Harry stopped.
"There's no microwave here," Lily finished.
"And it tastes better when you make it," Harry added.
Lily smiled. Harry said that about a lot of things.
When the hot chocolate was ready, she poured it into four mugs. She flicked her wand, sending three of them to the table. She picked up her cup and sat down at the table.
"So, tell me, how was it?"
OoOoOoOoOoOoOoO
Harry woke up very suddenly on Christmas Day. He had opted to sleep in his quarters before joining James and Lily down in her quarters. They had opened a few presents the night before, saving the rest for when they were home.
Wondering what it was that had awoken him, he opened his eyes. Two large, round, green eyes stared back at him in the darkness of the dorm room. So close they were almost nose to nose.
It was Dobby.
"Dobby!" Harry yelled. He had jumped, almost falling out of his bed. "Don't do that."
"Dobby is sorry, Sir!" Dobby squeaked anxiously. He jumped backward, his long fingers over his mouth. "Dobby just wanted to wish Harry Potter 'Merry Christmas' and bring him a present. Harry Potter did say it was okay for Dobby to come and see him sometimes!"
"It's okay, Dobby," Harry soothed, still breathing faster than usual. He felt his heart rate return to normal. "In the future, just prod me or something, all right. Don't bend over me like that. I get jerked awake like that by Padfoot enough."
Harry pulled back the curtains around his four-poster bed and picked up his glasses from his bedside table. He put on his glasses to find Ron, Neville, Dean, and Seamus peering through the gaps of their own curtains, heavy-eyed and tousled-haired. Ron yawned.
"What happened?" He asked.
"It's just Dobby. Sorry guys, go back to sleep."
Seamus realized it was morning. "It's Christmas! Presents!"
Neville jumped at his shout. "It's too early for this," He muttered. He picked up a wrapped package, noting the tag said it was from Lily and James.
Ron and Dean followed suit. Now that they were awake, they might as well open presents too. Harry turned back to Dobby. He was now standing next to Harry's bed. Dobby stared at Harry, worried he had upset him. He had a Christmas bauble tied to his tea cozy.
"Can Dobby give Harry Potter his present now?" Dobby asked.
"Of course, you can. I have something for you too."
Harry had found a pair of James's knitted socks when he came home for a weekend visit. They were ones Lily had bought James years ago, and he never wore them. James had added them to the donate basket in the laundry room. Harry asked James if he could have them.
Lily found out, agreeing Dobby would like them, and added a knitted hat to go with the socks.
Dobby was utterly delighted with his presents.
"Socks are Dobby's favorite, sir. Favorite clothes!" He said, ripping off his old ones and pulling James's knitted socks. "I has seven now, sir."
His eyes widened as he realized how warm they were.
"So warm," He said.
"Here, Dobby. This will make you eight pairs." Ron tossed him a package. "And you can have this." He tossed a wrapped package to Dobby. Harry knew it had Ron's knitted sweater in from Molly. There was a small rip on the side of the package. It was big enough to see what is inside.
"Maroon?" Harry guessed.
"Yes, it was maroon. Again."
Dobby meanwhile looked overwhelmed.
"Sir is very kind," He squeaked, his eyes brimming with tears again. He bowed deeply to Ron. "Dobby knew sir must be a great wizard, for he is Harry Potter's greatest friend. But Dobby did not know he was also as generous of spirit. As noble, as selfless..."
"They're only socks," Ron murmured. He had gone slightly pink around the ears but looked rather pleased.
"Wow, Harry." He had opened his present from Harry. It was a Chudley Cannon hat. "Cool!" He jammed it onto his head, where it clashed horribly with his hair
Dobby handed Harry a small package. Inside was socks.
"Dobby is making them himself, sir! He is buying the wool out of his wages!"
The left sock was bright red with a pattern of broomsticks. The right sock was green with Snitches.
"Thank you, Dobby," Harry said, putting them. Dobby's eyes leaked with happiness again. Ron watched, amused.
"Dobby must go now, sir. We is already making Christmas dinner in the kitchens," Dobby said, hurrying out of the dorm, waving to Ron and the others as he passed.
"We'll need to let Hermione know we gave Dobby his presents," Ron noted.
"I didn't want to tell him. He seemed like he was overwhelmed with what we gave him." Harry picked up a package from Hermione. "And by the way, the hat was green. Again."
"I get maroon sweaters. You get green hats. How many does this make you?"
"Five."
Hermione had gotten Harry and Ron a book called Quidditch Teams of Britain and Ireland. She put a note inside so they knew which copy belonged to who. Sirius had sent Harry a present. It came with a note saying even though they were postponing Christmas until Boxing Day, Sirus wanted Harry to unwrap something from him on Christmas. It was a handy penknife with attachments to unlock any lock and undo any knot. Hagrid had given Harry some of his favorite candy. Molly sent him this year's sweater, green with a picture of a dragon.
Harry assumed Charlie had told her about the Horntail.
Dean and Seamus left after changing to head down for breakfast. Neville passed Harry's bed, asking, "Is Lily cooking?"
"She's making breakfast. I'm to bring you two and Hermione."
"What is she making?" Ron asked.
"Of course, you ask," Harry murmured. Then he answered, "Her egg, cheese, and sausage bake. She's also making pancakes."
"Have I mentioned I love your Mum?" Ron asked.
"You have," Harry replied.
They changed and met Hermione down in the common room. Harry told her the breakfast plans, and she followed three boys out of the portrait hole to Lily's quarters.
Lily greeted them with hugs and a 'Merry Christmas. She kissed her son's head.
"Merry Christmas, Sweetheart," She murmured softly.
"Merry Christmas, Mum."
Breakfast was ready when the teens arrived. James served orange juice to everyone, ruffling his son's head as he passed him.
"So what did everyone get?"
Lily observed from her place in the kitchen, watching the teens talk with James. She listened to their conversation. Sometimes Lily wondered what it would be like if they had more than one child. But then she realized how fortunate she was to have the one she had.
"Thanks for breakfast, Lily."
"You're welcome."
She met eyes with James. They smiled at each other, thankful that this is their life.
They could have missed this.
"Hey, Dad?"
"Yeah, Son?"
"We're going out to play in the snow. Do you want to join us?"
"Do I want to join you?" James asked. "Of course I do." He turned to his wife. "Is it okay?"
Lily chuckled. "James Potter, you would go out even if I said no. Just remember you're not young anymore."
James made a face at his wife. "Oh, Hogwash."
"Go on, have fun."
"We'll meet you down here?" Harry asked.
"How about in the entrance hall, in front of the Great Hall," James suggested.
"Alright."
Lily watched as her husband rushed to her bedroom to get ready. She decided to walk down with him to meet the teens. They were coming down the stairs when they made it to the entrance hall.
"Have fun," She said. "Harry, where's your hat?"
"In my pocket."
"Put it on when you go out," She directed.
She watched them go out the door, and Harry put his hat on. She stood there until the oak doors closed.
"Did James go out with Harry and his friends?" Minerva asked.
"He did."
"How about some tea, Lily?"
Lily smiled at her former head of house. "That would be wonderful."
"Come on. We'll go to my quarters."
As they walked, Lily thought about her discussion with James when they found out Harry would need to stay at Hogwarts over Christmas.
"We'll make the best of it," James said.
And they sure did. This would be a Christmas they would talk about for years to come.
OoOoOoOoOoOoO
They spent the whole afternoon on the grounds, playing in the snow and having snowball fights. James noticed the snow was untouched for the most part. There were a few deep channels by the Durmstrang and Beauxbatons students heading towards the castle.
Ginny joined them for the snowball fight while Hermione opted to watch.
Lily came out to check on them around four o'clock. Hermione asked her the time.
"When should we head in?" Ginny asked.
"In an hour," Hermione replied.
When it reached five o'clock, Hermione and Ginny headed back inside to return to Gryffindor tower.
"What, you need three hours to get ready?" Ron called, looking at Hermione confused. "Why do they need three hours to get ready?"
With Ron distracted, George threw a snowball at Ron. It hit him in the back of the head.
"Why does it take women three hours to get ready?" Ron asked.
"Ron, men have asked that question for years. I don't even have the answer," James replied.
"What time should we head in?" Harry asked.
"Six thirty should give you boys plenty of time."
They headed back in around six o'clock, stopping at Lily's quarters. There was no Christmas tea today, as the ball included a feast. Lily had made the boys sandwiches to tie them over until the feast.
"Thank you, Lily," George said.
"These are really good," Fred commented.
"Thank you, boys. Do you need anything else?"
"No, thank you," they replied in unison.
They thanked Lily again for the sandwiches and left to get ready. Harry, Neville, and Ron stayed a few minutes longer.
Harry opted to get ready in his dorm rather than Lily's quarters. They headed back to the tower at six-thirty to get ready.
Dean and Seamus were stepping out of the bathroom when they came in. Without a word to each other, Harry, Ron, and Neville headed into the bathroom. They showered. Harry washed his hair in an attempt to tame it. By the time he stepped out of the shower stall, Ron and Neville were done and getting dressed.
The boys got ready in silence. No one spoke unless it was necessary.
"Where are you meeting, Ginny?" Ron asked.
"In the common room," Harry replied. "I should warn you both. Dad brought Mum her camera."
"Are we to be included in pictures?" Neville asked.
"If I have to go along with Mum's pictures, so do the two of you," Harry deadpanned.
Harry, Ron, and Neville walked down to the common room, where Harry and Ron would wait for the girls. Neville headed on to meet Luna down in the entrance hall.
"Good luck," Ron called.
"Thanks. Good luck to you, Harry."
"On what?"
"Didn't you say the champions open the dance?" Neville asked.
Harry had forgotten that little detail. He cursed.
"Thanks, Neville."
Neville wasn't gone long before Harry and Ron heard footsteps on the stairs leading to the girls' dorms. Hermione peeked around the corner before coming down the final five steps. Ron approached, cautiously offering his hand.
Hermione's dress was periwinkle blue, a little off her shoulders. Her hair was pulled back in a twisted bun with strands curled along her face. She wore a little makeup on her face.
She smiled at Ron as he approached her.
"You look nice, Hermione," Ron commented.
"Thank you, Ronald." She turned to Harry. "Ginny will be down shortly."
Harry nodded. "Thanks. Go on. We'll catch up."
Ron led Hermione to the portrait hole. Once they were gone, Harry said, "You git. I should have smacked you upside the head." He shook his head. "She was more than nice. She was..."
He stopped when he heard footsteps on the stairs. Ginny came downstairs, holding onto the rail.
Upon seeing her, Harry swallowed. He hadn't told anyone, but he was beginning to have feelings for Ginny. She was beautiful in Lily's old dress. The green suited her. The color made her red hair stand out even more. Her hair was lightly curled, pulled back in an half up, half down do. She wore a little bit of makeup on her face. Harry thought she was beautiful without it.
Harry approached the stairs, offering his hand as she reached the bottom steps.
"You look beautiful," He said.
"Thank you," Ginny replied, blushing.
"Shall we head down?"
Ginny nodded. As they left Gryffindor tower, Harry told her about opening the ball.
When they reached the entrance hall, Harry found Lily talking with Minerva. James had stayed to see Harry and watch the first dance. He was wearing his Auror dress robes. Lily was wearing a dress Harry remembered her wearing at the St. Mungo's Christmas Gala. They weren't staying the whole night. Just for the feast and to watch the first dance.
James tapped Lily's shoulder, motioning to Harry and Ginny.
Minerva smiled at the couple as Lily approached them.
"Don't you look handsome," She said, straightening Harry's hair. "And you look beautiful, Ginny."
"Thank you."
Ron, Hermione, Neville, and Luna came over while they waited for the doors to the Great Hall to open. When it was time for pictures, Lily lined them up with their dates. She took a few group shots. Then she took a few of the girls together and the boys together.
"There's my boys," She whispered as she took a picture of Harry, Ron, and Neville. She handed the camera to James. "Harry, stay," she directed. "I want one of just me and you."
James took the picture. When they were done, he handed her the camera. "When you develop them, get copies," Lily told him.
"Of course."
"Champions over here, please."
Lily put her hand on Harry's shoulder. "Good luck, Sweetheart."
"Thanks, Mum."
James patted his shoulder as he and Ginny walked by.
The chattering parted to let them through. Minerva was wearing red tartan dress robes. Her usual black hat was on top of her head.
She told them to wait on the other side of the door while every else went inside. They would enter the Great Hall in a procession when the rest of the students sat down.
Harry and Ginny were at the back of the procession. Fleur and Roger Davies were at the front. Krum and his date were next. Cedric and Cho were in front of Harry and Ginny.
Minvera checked to see if all of the champions were present. She nodded approvingly, smiling at Harry as she passed, noticing he was in the back.
When everyone was settled in the Great Hall, Professor McGonagall led the champions in with their partners. Everyone in the Great Hall applauded as they entered and started toward a large round table at the front of the Great Hall. The judges were already waiting.
The walls of the Great Hall had been covered in a sparkling frost, with hundreds of garlands of mistletoe and ivy crossed the white ceiling. The House tables had vanished. They were replaced by a hundred small tables, with enough space for dozen people at each one.
Harry, meanwhile, concentrated on not tripping over his feet. As he and Ginny approached the head table, he found Ron, Hermione, Neville, and Luna at one table. Neville and Ron gave him a thumbs up and a fist as they passed.
Professor Dumbledore smiled happily as the champions approached the head table. Karkaroff, however, wore a soured expression on his face. Harry briefly wondered if he ever smiled. Ludo Bagman, wearing robes of bright purple and yellow stars, clapped just as enthusiastically as the students. Madame Maxime wore a gown of lavender silk, a change from her usual black satin. She applauded politely. In the last chair, instead of Barty Crouch, was Percy Weasley.
"Can we not sit near my brother? Ginny whispered.
Harry leaned in to whisper to Cedric. "Do we have assigned seats?"
"No," Cedric whispered. "Cho and I will sit near Percy."
"Thank you."
Minvera was confused when she noticed Harry and Cedric whispering to each other. When she saw the head table, she knew why.
"Percy," She said. "Of course."
She knew Ginny wouldn't want to sit near her brother. Percy could carry on a boring conversation. Harry opted for the seats opposite Cedric and Cho, away from Percy. But he was now next to Ludo Bagman.
Harry wondered how they were going to have dinner. On the glittering gold plate were small menus. Unsure, Harry picked his up and looked around. Dumbledore then carefully looked down at his menu. Then very clearly, he said, "Roast beef."
Roast beef appeared with all of the usual sides. Understanding, the rest of the table placed their orders with their menus. Harry and Ginny opted for the roasted chicken with potatoes and carrots.
"Tell me, Potter. Have you considered a career in Quidditch?" Bagman asked. He was still impressed with Harry's flying skills from the first task.
"Well, considering I'm only a fourth year, I haven't really thought about it," Harry said.
Bagman nodded.
Harry and Ginny made small talk in between listening to other conversations.
Karkaroff and Dumbledore were talking about the secrecy surrounding Durmstrang's location. Fleur was comparing everything from the food to the decorations at Beauxbatons. Roger Davies watched her talk. He kept missing his mouth with his fork. Harry guessed that Davies was too busy staring at Fleur in a daze.
It was unclear if he was taking in a single word she said.
OoOoOoOoOoOoO
All too soon for Harry, the feast was over, the dishes were cleared away, and Dumbledore announced the first dance. At this announcement, the champions made their way to the dance floor. This time, Cedric led them.
They walked to a corner of the dance floor and waited for the music to start. Harry took Ginny's hand and placed his other one on her waist.
"Is this right?" Harry mouthed. She nodded.
Harry sighed, then took a deep breath. He glanced around to find his parents sitting next to Minerva. James gave him a thumbs-up while Lily mouthed, "You can do it."
Harry took another deep breath before the music began to play. Professor Flitwick tapped the podium and signaled for the band to play.
As the first strains of music began to play, Harry confidently led Ginny into the waltz, the same one they had practiced a week ago. Ginny followed suit, and together they danced. They meshed together, getting into the flow. Harry twirled with Ginny matching the moves with the other champions.
Applause from the audience told Harry everything was going well. He breathed a sigh of relief when the music began to slow. When it stopped, they were standing where they had started. Applause broke out, and the champions bowed.
The first dance was over.
The music started to play again, and Harry and Ginny flowed across the dance floor.
When the second dance ended, Harry and Ginny headed to the refreshment table for drinks. James came over to tell Harry he would see him tomorrow.
"I'm going, have fun," He said. "Mum's going to stick around for a moment."
"Okay, see you tomorrow, Dad."
When James left, Harry and Ginny took their drinks to a table. They found Ron and Hermione sitting at a nearby table, having drinks themselves.
"It's hot, isn't it?" Hermione asked.
"You mean you danced, big brother?" Ginny asked.
"I did. She made me," Ron pointed to Hermione.
"Having a good time?" Hermione asked Ginny.
"Yes, are you?"
Hermione nodded. "Will your Mum make copies of the pictures for everyone?"
"She can. I'll ask her," Harry said.
"Did you know Percy was coming?" Ginny asked her brother.
"No, I didn't." Ron looked around the room.
"Is that why you and Harry switched?" Hermione inquired.
Ginny nodded. "Harry asked Cedric to switch with us."
The Weird Sisters began to play again. Harry and Ron led the girls back out to the dance floor.
Lily watched from the corner of the room, smiling as Harry led Ginny back onto the dance floor. She was proud of her son and how well he was doing. She watched Harry twirl Ginny. The smile on her face made Lily smile.
She waited until Harry and Ginny stepped off the dance floor to let Harry know she was going. It was evident he would be here with Ginny until the end.
"I'm going back to my quarters. I'll see you later."
"I'm going to walk Ginny back to the tower, and then I'll come down. My stuff is in my room."
"Okay. See you later. Have fun."
After Lily left, Harry got Ginny another drink.
"Are you having a good time?" Harry asked Ginny as he handed her a cup.
"Yes, I'm having a great time. Thank you for inviting me."
Harry smiled, feeling himself blush. "You're welcome. I'm glad you're having a great time."
Ron and Hermione joined them at the table with drinks and snacks. It felt good to sit down for a moment to Harry. When the girls headed off to the restroom, Ron moved to a chair next to Harry so they could talk.
"Krum came over and asked Hermione for a dance. She declined, saying she was with me."
"What do you think he wants with Hermione?"
"I think he's trying to get information on you. I mean, you are one of his competitors. He probably thinks since Hermione is friends with you," Ron trailed off.
"That he could get information on me," Harry finished. "I haven't figured out what the freaking egg says. Don't tell Hermione."
"Secret is safe with me."
The girls returned from the restroom as Fred and George walked by with Angelina and Alicia.
"Having a good time, Firecracker?" Fred asked.
"Yes, I'm having a good time."
"Okay. We'll see you guys later."
The music began to play again. Hermione asked Ron if he wanted to dance more. He countered by asking her if she wanted to go on a walk. She agreed.
"I'll make sure Ginny gets back to the tower," Harry told Ron.
"Thanks, mate." As he passed his sister, he patted her on the head. "Behave."
"You behave," She countered.
Harry swallowed, realizing he was alone with Ginny.
"Do you want to dance some more or something else?" Harry asked.
"Let's dance this one, and then we'll go for a walk."
"Okay," Harry agreed.
As he danced with Ginny, she leaned her head against his shoulder. He wondered what it would be like to date her. Ron, George, or Fred didn't know he had feelings for their sister. Of the three, Ron's reaction was the one he most dreaded. All of her brothers were protective of her. Ron, George, and Fred the most.
They were still trying to make up for not looking out for their sister her first year.
The band announced they would be playing the final song. Ginny decided she had enough dancing for the evening.
"Can we go for a walk before we head back to Gryffindor tower?" She asked.
"Sure," Harry replied. They headed towards the doors to leave the Great Hall. Neville and Luna were still dancing as they passed them.
"I'm going to walk Luna back to Ravenclaw, and I'll be up."
"Mum and I are going home. I'll be back the Sunday before term starts."
"Okay, see you then."
Harry led Ginny out of the Great Hall. They walked in silence, deciding to enjoy the quiet winter night.
Ginny looked up, noticing how clear the sky was. The moon shined brightly, casting a light glow on the snow-covered ground.
"I had a great time. Thank you again for inviting me," Ginny said.
"You're welcome. I had a great time too."
"I don't see what the fuss is about, Igor."
Harry and Ginny stopped walking, realizing the voice they heard belonged to Snape. Harry took Ginny's hand and pulled her behind a pillar.
"Servus, you cannot pretend this isn't happening!" Karkaroff's voice sounded anxious. He was speaking so low it was evident he didn't want to be overheard. "It's been getting clearer and clearer for months! I'm seriously concerned. I can't deny it."
"Then flee," Snape said curtly. "I will make excuses for you. I, however, will remain at Hogwarts."
Snape had his wand out. He was blasting rosebushes apart.
Squeals came from many of the bushes as dark shapes emerged from them.
"Ten points from Ravenclaw, Fawcett!" Snape snarled as a girl ran past him. "And ten points from Hufflepuff, Stebbins!"
"Let's go," Harry whispered. "Before he decides to deduct points from Gryffindor." Ginny nodded.
Ginny nodded and followed Harry past where Karkaroff and Snape were standing. They stopped their conversation as they passed.
"Move along, Potter."
"We're just heading back to Gryffindor now," Harry said.
Once they were away from the two, Ginny asked, "What is Karkaroff worried about?"
"And since when are he and Snape on first name bases?" Harry pondered.
Harry walked Ginny back to Gryffindor tower. As they approached the Fat Lady, they noticed she was in her friend Violet's frame. They were asleep.
As they entered the common room, they were greeted with Ron and Hermione in a blazing row. They stood ten feet apart from each other, yelling at each other.
"Thank you for walking back with me, Harry. Have fun with your family."
"Thanks. I'll see you later."
Ginny stood on tiptoes and kissed Harry's cheek. Then she turned, heading up to her dorm. Harry smiled, touching his cheek.
Sighing, he turned to his best friends. He was so used to their rows that he tuned them out. Ron would tell him about it when he got back.
"OI!" Harry called. "I'm leaving. Mum and I will be back Sunday before term. Whatever your rowing about, have it worked by then, huh."
Harry turned around and left the common room, leaving a stunned Ron and Hermione in his wake.
OoOoOoOoOoOoO
It was after two in the morning before Harry went to bed. Lily had already gone to bed half an hour ago. James waited up for them. He greeted them with a hug for Harry and a kiss for Lily.
Harry will tell them about the Yule Ball tomorrow. It saved Harry from repeating everything three or four times. Remus and Sirius were coming over and spending the night tomorrow night, and they would want to hear about the Yule Ball too.
Laying in his bed, Harry thought back over the night's events. He did have a great time and was happy Ginny enjoyed herself. At least he didn't step on her feet. Sighing, Harry turned to face the wall, wondering when he would get enough courage and ask Ginny on a date. He knew there was a Hogsmeade weekend coming in January.
Would he actually do it, though?
Then there was the conversation he and Ginny heard between Snape and Karkaroff. He decided to talk with Sirius about it first, then James. He just stumbled upon it. It wasn't like he had gone looking for it.
Harry sighed, deciding he would think about that tomorrow. He knew he needed to get some sleep. He found a comfortable spot and closed his eyes. Slowly, he fell asleep, dreaming about the Yule Ball.
On March 6th, 2015, I published the first chapter of Harry's Life with Parents. How little did I know what this series of a life we all wish Harry had would grow? Let alone still going eight years later. Thank you to everyone who has followed along with this series. Thank you for the follows, the favorites, and the reviews. To everyone who has loved and enjoyed this series, thank you. I've truly enjoyed writing it. All because I imagined Harry and Sirius going to the movies and James and Lily were alive was how this all started.
Stay tuned, as there is more to come.