A/N First chapter up: Let me know what you think!
The early morning sun cast a golden hue over the Burrow, as Ginny hurried down the narrow staircase, her long red hair tied in a loose bun. She was running late for her shift at St. Mungo's Hospital for Magical Maladies and Injuries, where she worked as a dedicated medi-witch. She grabbed her robes and apparated to St. Mungo's locker room.
"Ginny, wait up!" Hermione's voice echoed from behind her as Ginny towards the break room to grab a cup of coffee before her morning rounds with the patients.
With a chuckle, Ginny turned to find Hermione Granger-Zabini, her best friend since their Hogwarts days, now married to Blaise Zabini, a Slytherin with a kind heart and really poor choice in friends. Hermione hurried towards her, her bushy brown hair slightly disheveled, evidence of her morning rush.
"Busy day ahead?" Ginny asked, a teasing grin tugging at her lips.
Hermione nodded fervently. "Oh, you wouldn't believe the influx of cases flooding in. The hospital's a madhouse!"
Ginny reached for her wand, performing a quick charm to straighten Hermione's hair. "There, that's better. No patients will suspect they're in the care of a frazzled healer," she joked, earning a grateful smile from Hermione.
As they settled in the break room, sipping on cups of steaming beverage, Hermione's expression turned serious. "Ginny, I've been meaning to talk to you about something important."
Ginny arched an eyebrow, curious. "What's on your mind?"
Hermione hesitated before speaking. "Blaise and I received an invitation to the Malfoy ball next week. It's supposed to be a grand affair."
Ginny's eyes widened in surprise. "The Malfoy ball? Wow, it's that time of the year again, huh? I suppose being best friends with the youngest Malfoy makes Blaise, therefore you, VIPs for the event" she teased.
Hermione shrugged. "I suppose, although I can't say I'm very excited with the prospect of attending an event, a ball at that, hardly knowing more than 10 people in attendance! Blaise has connections through work that I can "mingle" with so there's that…"
Ginny laughed, feeling sorry for her friend. Then a thought popped in her head and she narrowed her eyes in suspicion. "Wait, why are you telling me that?"
Hermoine blinked her eyes in innocence, silently confirming all of Ginny's doubts.
Ginny frowned, memories of the Malfoy family's history and her past encounters with Draco flashing through her mind. "Absolutely not. I'm not going to the Malfoy ball! I'm not sure that's my scene, Hermione! Besides, I'd probably be scrutinized under their judgmental gazes."
Hermione placed a comforting hand on Ginny's arm. "I understand, but I also know how cautious you've been ever since your breakup with Harry. It's time to reclaim your boldness, Ginny. You're more than the aftermath of a relationship."
Ginny sighed, her gaze flickering with uncertainty. "I just don't want to attract unwanted attention, especially at an event hosted by the Malfoys."
Hermione's gaze softened as she observed Ginny, her voice laced with genuine concern. "Ginny, you've been playing it safe for far too long. I miss the courageous girl who fearlessly stood up to challenges at Hogwarts. The one who didn't let a broken heart define her."
Ginny's shoulders relaxed, a flicker of vulnerability in her eyes. "It's not easy, Hermione. I've been trying to find my footing again, but it's been a struggle. The press was brutal after our break-up, hounding us for details everywhere we went. Lucky me! I got to relive the death of my relationship many more times after it actually happened. I thought Harry was going to be my forever someone, you know… but the war changed us all. I guess what I'm trying to say is that whole experience has made me very cautious"
Hermione leaned forward, her tone gentle yet firm. "I understand, but hiding away isn't the solution. You're a force to be reckoned with, Ginny Weasley, and I won't stand by and watch you diminish that strength."
A small smile tugged at Ginny's lips, touched by Hermione's unwavering support. "You've always seen through me, haven't you?"
Hermione chuckled softly. "Years of friendship tend to grant me that privilege. But seriously, Ginny, it's time for you to take a step outside your comfort zone. Embrace life's possibilities again."
Ginny nodded, a glimmer of determination in her eyes. "Alright, Hermione. I'll trust your judgment. But how do you plan on helping me blend in at the Malfoy ball without being noticed?"
Hermione's grin was infectious. "Ah, that's where my expertise comes in. Disguises, charms, and a touch of magical ingenuity will do the trick. We'll make sure you're unrecognizable yet absolutely radiant."
Ginny rolled her eyes playfully. "Alright, Granger. I'll let you have your fun. But promise me it won't turn into a disaster."
Hermione placed a hand over her heart. "I solemnly swear this will be an adventure you won't regret. Besides, if it gets too chaotic, we'll just disappear into the shadows like true witches."
The warmth of their banter filled the room, a testament to the unbreakable bond between them. Ginny felt a surge of gratitude for having Hermione as her friend, someone who saw beyond her insecurities and nudged her to rediscover herself.
As they finished their tea, Hermione placed a comforting hand on Ginny's shoulder. "Trust me, Ginny. You're more than ready to face the world again, starting with the Malfoy ball."
Ginny smiled, a newfound sense of determination coursing through her. "Alright then, Hermione. Let's make some magic."
The next morning, in the cozy chaos of the Weasley household, Ginny stood amidst a whirlwind of activity, preparing breakfast while humming a tune.
Ginny had grown into her own since her Hogwarts days. Her path led her to a fulfilling career as a medi-witch at St. Mungo's Hospital, where her compassionate nature and formidable magical skills made her a trusted healer. Living at the Burrow with her family had its chaotic charm, each day brimming with the vibrancy of her numerous siblings. As the only girl among the Weasley children, Ginny often found herself balancing her responsibilities as a medi-witch with the comforting chaos of her family life.
With practiced ease, she flipped a stack of pancakes in the sizzling skillet, the scent of breakfast filling the kitchen. Her mind, however, was preoccupied with the golden invitation lay on Ginny's bed, a shimmering promise of dreams fulfilled. Its edges were embossed with delicate patterns, and elegant calligraphy spelled out the details of the prestigious event. Despite her initial reluctance, the idea tugged at her adventurous spirit.
The Burrow was abuzz with activity as her brothers Fred and George, known for their mischievous pranks, tested their latest creations in one corner. Ron, her youngest brother, shuffled into the kitchen, still rubbing sleep from his eyes, while Harry, her former flame and now a close friend, sat at the table, leafing through the Daily Prophet.
"Morning, Ginny," Harry greeted with a warm smile, breaking the morning silence.
"Morning, Harry," Ginny replied absent-mindedly.
Harry glanced up from the paper, concern etched in his expression. "Everything alright? You seem a bit distant this morning."
Ginny managed a reassuring smile. "Just thinking about work. Busy day ahead at St. Mungo's."
Harry nodded understandingly, returning to his perusal of the paper. Ginny appreciated his concern but found herself withholding her thoughts about the Malfoy ball. She wasn't quite ready to share her plans with anyone just yet. Besides, she knew for a fact that Harry was invited to the ball, him being the-boy-who-lived and all, and she did not want to raise any suspicions.
As the kitchen bustled with the lively chatter of her family, Ginny couldn't shake off the feeling of anticipation stirred by Hermione's proposal. The idea of attending the Malfoy ball in disguise both thrilled and unnerved her. It wasn't just about the event itself, but the notion of reclaiming a part of herself that had been buried in the aftermath of her past relationships.
Her thoughts drifted back to her medi-witch duties, the patients awaiting her care, and the healing magic she would soon be wielding. But underlying it all was the desire for a semblance of adventure, a chance to step beyond the confines of her caution and rediscover the courage that once defined her.
The night of Malfoy ball, in the heart of the Burrow, the scent of brewing potions lingered. Hermione Granger stood before Ginny, a glint of mischief in her eyes. The air hummed with magic, as Hermione prepared to weave her enchantments for the ball, the most prestigious event of the wizarding world's social calendar.
"Ginny," Hermione began, her wand poised delicately in her hand, "let's transform you into the belle of the ball."
Ginny, clad in her plain robes, rolled her eyes at that. "Just enough to disguise myself, Hermoine. I'm no belle of the ball!"
But she watched with a mix of apprehension and anticipation. Hermione's plan was a daring endeavor, a transformation that would cast her into the role of Cinderella albeit not looking for a prince charming, if only for the night. She took a steadying breath, surrendering herself to Hermione's expertise.
With a flick of her wand, Hermione set the magic in motion. Soft, ethereal whispers of spells filled the room as Ginny's appearance underwent a magnificent alteration. Her once vibrant red hair turned a luscious shade of dark chestnut, cascading in elegant waves down her shoulders.
A shimmering gown materialized around her, a vision spun from silken threads and stardust. The dress, an exquisite creation of midnight blue adorned with delicate silver embroidery, draped gracefully over Ginny's figure, accentuating her slender form.
The bodice was tailored to perfection, embellished with intricate designs that seemed to dance under the gentle glow of the enchanted lanterns. The skirt flowed in layers of silk and tulle, billowing with every step, as if whispering secrets of the night.
Upon Ginny's feet, Hermione conjured a pair of breathtaking glass slippers. Each step she took echoed with melody, the glass emitting a subtle, crystalline glow that added an otherworldly allure to her ensemble.
Ginny's reflection in the mirror revealed a transformed woman—an embodiment of elegance and grace. It was still her face, her slightly crooked nose and big brown eyes, but her features glowed with a newfound radiance, her eyes sparkling like stars against the backdrop of the enchanting attire.
Hermione stood back, a satisfied smile gracing her lips as she observed her handiwork. "You look enchanting, Ginny. The epitome of elegance and beauty."
Ginny marveled at her altered appearance, feeling both exhilarated and apprehensive about the upcoming masquerade. "It's... incredible, Hermione. But I'm not sure if I can pull this off. Harry will likely attend the ball, and the brown hair is not going to fool him."
Hermione reassured her with a gentle touch on her shoulder. "You'll captivate everyone at the ball, Ginny and no one will be none the wiser"
Ginny's curiosity was piqued by Hermione's words. Hermione summoned a delicate mask adorned with enchantments. The mask concealed the upper part of her face, framing her eyes while obscuring her identity—an elegant disguise that added to the allure of her transformation.
Hermione stepped closer, placing a reassuring hand on Ginny's shoulder. "Trust me, Ginny. You'll charm everyone at the ball. And who knows? You might just catch the eye of someone unexpected."
Ginny's brow furrowed in curiosity, but before she could inquire further, Hermione waved her wand once again, completing Ginny's look with a small brooch on her gown - a silver phoenix shaped feather with rubies and emeralds on either side of it.
As Ginny stood admiring her transformed appearance, a sense of wonder mixed with trepidation settled within her. Hermione, noticing her friend's contemplative expression, stepped forward with a gentle reminder.
"Ginny, one thing to keep in mind," Hermione began, her tone carrying a note of caution, "the enchantments and charms will only hold until midnight. Make sure you're back here before then."
Ginny's brows furrowed slightly, contemplating the implications of the time limit. "Midnight? Why is that?"
Hermione smiled knowingly. "It's a magical safeguard, Ginny. The glamor and disguise will fade once the clock strikes midnight. You wouldn't want to risk being caught in your true form once the magic wears off."
Understanding dawned on Ginny, a mixture of excitement and urgency coloring her thoughts. "Understood, Hermione. I'll make sure to return before midnight." Her heart raced with anticipation, knowing that her night at the ball had an implicit deadline.
A/N: So? What do you think? Should I continue?
As they prepared to depart for the Malfoy ball, Hermione's knowing gaze lingered on Ginny, a silent acknowledgment of her secret plan. She couldn't help but wonder if the night held the promise of reigniting an old spark between Draco and the transformed Ginny—setting the stage for a potential connection that had lingered in the halls of Hogwarts long ago. Blasie had mentioned something about a spark between Draco and Ginny way back and with a faint smile, Hermione played the role of orchestrator in the dance of fate, setting the wheels in motion for a magical evening.