The Great Hall was resplendent with festive decorations as Christmas approached. The ceiling, bewitched to reflect the sky outside, now showcased a gentle snowfall that sparkled in the candlelight. Garlands of holly and ivy, adorned with golden berries that seemed to glow from within, festooned the edges of the grand tables. At the Hall's far end, a colossal Christmas tree stood as a testament to Yuletide magic. Its branches, laden with twinkling lights and shimmering ornaments, created a dazzling spectacle, while delicate strands of tinsel danced and shimmered in the gentle drafts.

Jane and Lily were nestled together at the Hufflepuff table, a vibrant collection of yarn and knitting needles spread out before Jane. The gentle clinking of silverware and the low hum of cheerful chatter filled the hall as students ate lunch. Jane's fingers flew across the yarn, her hands a blur of motion as she meticulously crafted gifts for her friends and housemates. The rhythmic clicking of the knitting needles provided a soothing alternative to the internal turmoil that still lingered.

There was a strange brew of concern and curiosity that simmered on Lily's face, her emerald eyes searching Jane for any sign of distress. "Jane, you've seemed a bit distant lately," she observed softly. "Is it because of Snape? He's been hovering around you a lot."

The knitting needles stopped mid loop as Jane's hands faltered momentarily, the yarn slipping through her fingers before she regained her composure and resumed her knitting. "It's nothing to worry about, Lily," she assured her friend, her voice steady but tinged with a weariness she couldn't entirely conceal. The rich, enticing aromas of roasted meat and freshly baked bread filled the Hall, but they offered little solace to her troubled mind.

"I can handle it," she insisted.

Lily's upturned lips slid into a frown, her worry deepening. She scanned the hall, taking in the carefree atmosphere before pressing her friend. "Are you absolutely sure, Jane? If Snape is causing you trouble, we can talk to someone about it. Professor Sprout or Professor Dumbledore, perhaps."

"I'm fine really. If I need their help I promise I will ask for it."

This seemed to siphon the unease from the redheaded witch, pulling her just far enough off the edge before she fell into a pit of anxiety over Jane. Trying to change the topic so that her friend's focus was no longer on her, Jane asked if Lily was going to attend the second Hufflepuff Christmas party.

Lily's face lit up like a Christmas tree. "I absolutely will be there. It was so groovy last year! You'll be there right?"

With a strained smile and a new focus on her knitting, Jane nodded. "Of course, Lily." She cringed inwardly. Her tone was too bright for how she felt and she hoped Lily couldn't see right through her. "I'm looking forward to it. It'll be a nice break from everything."

"It's going to be so much fun. I can't wait to pick out a new dress for it. I know I wore red and white last year. Maybe I should get a green one." Lily had pulled out a small muggle diary and began looking for the best Hogsmeade shop to purchase a new outfit.

"Yes, it's our new little house tradition. We're decorating the common room with handmade ornaments, having a feast with all our favourite treats, and even doing a Secret Santa gift exchange. It's going to be wonderful. Luckily for me, the second year I have for the gift exchange has yet to get a Hufflepuff scarf. So I figured I would make him one." Jane's face lit up with a practised enthusiasm that felt almost mechanical.

Lily's eyes sparkled, her cheeks flushed with the warmth of the hall. "That sounds absolutely amazing!" she exclaimed. "I love how Hufflepuff always feels like such a close-knit family. You all take such good care of each other. You're going, right? If so, can I find you a date?"

Once again, Jane's fingers paused momentarily, the rhythmic click of her knitting needles falling silent. The texture of the soft wool under her fingers was a small, grounding sensation. "I'm not sure yet," she mumbled, trying to keep her tone casual. "I might have a lot of work to catch up on."

"Jane, you've been working yourself to the bone," Lily began, her furrowed brow looking like small scrunched caterpillars on her pale skin. "You deserve a break. The holidays are a time to relax and recharge, to spend time with friends and forget about your studies for a while. The party would be the perfect opportunity to unwind and have some fun. Please, promise me you'll go."

Sighing, Jane let Lily's worries settle heavily upon her. The festive atmosphere around them seemed to exist in a distant realm, disconnected from her own reality. "I appreciate your concern, Lily. But I just... I don't know if I'm up for it."

Lily's hand settled gently on Jane's arm, her touch conveying a warmth and reassurance that was both comforting and insistent. "You need to take some time for yourself, Jane," she said softly. "You've been working incredibly hard, and it's important to put yourself first. Besides, everyone is looking forward to celebrating with you. The party won't feel the same without you there."

A lump formed in Jane's throat as she met Lily's brilliant green eyes, the look on her friend's face almost too much to bear. She knew Lily was right, but the prospect of immersing herself in the festivities felt overwhelming. The general cheerfulness in the air only served to mock her. Despite the numbness that blanketed herheart, she managed a small, forced smile. "Okay. I'll go to the party."

Lily's face lit up, her smile so wide that Jane couldn't help notice how white her teeth were—her parents would have loved that. Lily gave Jane's arm a reassuring squeeze, "That's fantastic news, Jane!" she exclaimed. "It's going to be far out! And I'm sure it'll help you feel better. I'll make sure of it."

Nodding, Jane began to pack up her bag to prepare for her next class. Despite the shadows that clung to her, the warmth of Lily's unwavering support offered a glimmer of hope. The oppressive force that was Snape's presence, the haunting spectre of her nightmares, and the constant strain of vigilance from Dumbledore seemed slightly less burdensome in the face of Lily's friendship. For now, she would focus on the upcoming party, praying to Merlin it would provide a much-needed respite from the encroaching darkness.

Days turned into a whirlwind of anticipation as Lily's dedication to making the Hufflepuff Christmas party unforgettable for Jane only intensified. Winter's icy grip had settled over the castle, the crisp air now filled with the sweet tang of frost. Students, bundled in warm scarves and gloves, their breath forming ethereal clouds, hurried between classes, their conversations a lively tapestry of excited holiday plans.

Lily's note, brimming with party plans and ideas, found its way to Jane in a constant stream, slipping across desks during classes, hidden within meal trays, and even tucked between library books. In the Potions classroom, the air was thick with the earthy scent of bubbling concoctions and the soft hiss of simmering cauldrons. Lily passed a note across the table, its edges slightly frayed from being folded and unfolded multiple times. Jane unfolded it to reveal Lily's neat handwriting: "How about you and Remus go together? He's free, and you two have great chemistry."

Jane glanced at Remus, who was busy stirring, the flickering candlelight casting shadows on his concentrated face. Jane had half a mind to say yes but thought otherwise. She scribbled a quick response. "Remus is great, but we're just friends."

Lily's face twisted in annoyance, upset that her first choice failed before she continued her matchmaking efforts. Later, in the bustling Great Hall, the air was filled with the mouth watering aromas of roasted potatoes and pumpkin juice. A redhead witch made her way from Gryffindor to Hufflepuff with a look of pure determination. Leaning in, Lily whispered conspiratorially, "How about Peter? I know he's been hoping to find a date, and I think you two would really hit it off."

Sighting and forcing a smile, Jane shook her head. The magical winter sky painted across the ceiling seemed a world away from the storm brewing within her. "Lily," she began with gentle weariness, "I truly don't need a date. It's just a casual party."

"But it's not just a party, Jane. It's about having fun and making memories. And you deserve to have some fun."

Lily's nose scrunched with disgust. "Last year you didn't have a date and I made you dance with Snape! So sorry about that."

"Lily, it's really no big deal," Jane insisted. "It was just a dance. You just didn't realise he's such a total nightmare back then."

A measly sixteen hours later Lily truly escalated. The tension in Professor McGonagall's classroom was not due to the students trying to conjure nettle wine but rather a battle of wills dueling on small scraps of parchment.

Lily, ever the instigator, would write a name on some parchment, then pass it to James, who would pass to Sirius, who would pass to Eleanor who would pass to Jane. Once Jane responded with her own two letters, it would go back through the chain to Lily. This had gone on for more than twenty minutes of class so far and Jane was beginning to suspect that the Deputy Headmistress was bribed into pretending not to notice.

The Ravenclaw Beater with the dimples.

No.

Chuck.

No.

Robert O'Malley. The Gryffindor who looks like he just sucked on lemon.

No.

That one 5th year Hufflepuff who faintly smells of cheese.

No.

I think Peter has a cousin, he's a bit young, 3rd year I think. But he could work.

NO.

This continued for the rest of class. By the end, Jane had taken no notes for the day nor earned her house a single point.

Two days and fourteen hours later, the library offered Jane a serene escape. Surrounded by towering bookshelves and the gentle rustle of pages, she found a temporary refuge from her growing unease. The intoxicating scent of old paper and ink filled the air, anchoring her amidst her worries. But even this peaceful haven couldn't shield her from Lily's insistence.

"Alright, alright, no date," Lily conceded with a dramatic sigh. "But we can't let you go to that party looking like a mangled bookworm! How about a new dress? Something absolutely amazing to turn heads?"

Running her fingers through her unruly mane of curls, the strands feeling like straw from all the stress, Jane fought to roll her eyes. "I can just transfigure something from my wardrobe. No need to spend money on a new dress."

Lily's face fell, her enthusiasm dampened. "Jane, come on! You can't just transfigure your clothes for the party! You wore a dress transfigured from trousers last year. You deserve to feel amazing. Please, just this once?"

Jane looked at Lily, seeing how badly her friend wanted this for her. She knew Lily meant well, but with everything—the nightmares, Snape's relentless presence, her own exhaustion—it was crushing her spirit. "Lily, I appreciate it, really. But I just don't have the energy for it. The dress from last year is fine. I'll remake it."

"You know what, Jane? Forget the transfigured dress. How about you wear my dress from last year? The white one with the red trim? It'll look amazing on you." Lily crossed her arms and put her weight on one leg, popping her hip and giving a no nonsense look.

Hesitating, Jane was taken aback by the suggestion. She remembered Lily's dress vividly—it was beautiful, festive, and undeniably eye-catching. The memory of Lily twirling in it at last year's party, her laughter echoing through the room, was still fresh. "Lily, I can't wear your dress. It's too much."

The Gryffindor shook her head vehemently, her fiery red hair catching the light. "No, it's not. It's perfect for you. And I want you to have it. Please, Jane. It would make me so happy to see you in it!"

Jane's heart ached at the sight of Lily's earnest plea. She wanted to feel excited, to share in her friend's enthusiasm, but everything felt numb and distant. The thought of wearing Lily's dress, of trying to fill the joyous shoes of her wonderful friend, seemed overwhelming. "Okay, Lily," she finally said, resigning to her fate. "I'll wear your dress."

Lily's face brightened with relief. It was evident that she was giddy that one part of her plan panned out. "Thank you, Jane. You're going to look stunning, I promise."

As the days passed, Jane received more notes from Lily, each one filled with things she loved about Jane and how much of a great person she believed the Hufflepuff was. Jane tried to muster genuine excitement, even to believe Lily's words, but the numbness persisted, making it difficult to see past the fog.

In the quiet moments, alone in the Hufflepuff common room or the library, Jane found herself reflecting on her friendship with Lily. She was everything any witch could wish to be: beautiful, kind, and truly talented. Lily was the type of witch you wished you could hate, fueled by a petty jealousy born from their undeniable perfection. But you couldn't bring yourself to. All because basking in just some of their light was infinitely better than any self-worth petty dislike could bring you. And then there was an undeniable perk to having Lily around: Snape seemed to vanish whenever she was nearby.

Four days before the party, a gentle snowfall transformed the Hogwarts grounds into a pristine winter wonderland. Inside the Hufflepuff dormitory, Jane stood before her mirror. Dressed in Lily's white dress with striking red trim, she presented a softer image than usual. The white of the dress was a stunning contrast against her rich dark skin, making her blue eyes seem to sparkle with an inner light. The fabric felt gentle against her skin, a comforting contrast to her usual attire. As she turned slowly, admiring the way the dress moved, a glimmer of something positive stirred within her. This night, she realised, might hold something more than she anticipated.

When she descended the staircase, the intoxicating aroma of pine and cinnamon wafted up, a prelude to the festive cheer to come. Laughter and animated chatter spilled from the common room. Jane took a deep breath, letting the pure christmas joy seep into her bones. The common room was a whirlwind of activity as her housemates busied themselves with piles of decorations.

Lily was waiting at the bottom of the stairs, her face alight. When she saw Jane, her smile widened in admiration. "You look absolutely stunning," she breathed, pulling Jane into a warm embrace. "Thank you for doing this."

Jane returned the hug, squeezing Lily with all her might. "Thank you, Lily," she whispered, doing her best not to cry. "For everything."

Surrounded by the perfect imperfection that was Hufflepuff, she gradually found herself relaxing. Laughter bubbled up naturally, and the load that had been pressing down on her shoulders seemed to lighten. For the first time in weeks, she allowed herself to truly be present, to savour the moment, and to feel an avalanche of gratitude for Lily.

The day of the dance dawned with a flurry of activity. The wind whirled around the snow, making it hard to see more than a few metres out the window. Inside, the castle buzzed with excitement. Jane spent most of the afternoon helping set up for the Christmas party. The Hufflepuff common room was once again transformed with twinkling lights and festive decorations.

Jane was tasked with the unenviable job of enchanting the dance floor. Olivia had insisted that a slightly bouncy floor would enhance everyone's dancing experience. With a resigned sigh, Jane set to work, her wand casting soft, golden sparks as she muttered incantations. The floor beneath her feet responded with a gentle, rhythmic pulse. While she would have preferred to spend the afternoon lost in a book, she couldn't deny Olivia and so she toiled away, transforming the ordinary into the extraordinary. She had always struggled to say no to her friends.

The common room door burst open, revealing a whirlwind of excitement, as Jane put the finishing touches on her enchantment. Lily, her cheeks flushed from the cold of the dungeons, led a group of first-year Hufflepuffs into the room, their eyes wide with wonder.

"Jane! Come on, it's time to get ready!" Lily exclaimed. She grabbed Jane's hand and tugged gently, pulling her away from the newly built dance floor.

"Lily, I still have a few things to finish—"

Lily shook her head firmly, her red hair bouncing with the motion. "Olivia and the others can handle the rest. You've done enough. Now, let's get you looking fabulous for tonight."

Allowing herself to be dragged upstairs to the Hufflepuff dormitory, Jane tried her best not to trip on any of the stairs. Lily wasted no time, setting to work on Jane's hair with a determined glint in her eye. The whirring of the blizzard outside provided a soothing background as Lily deftly transformed Jane's frizzy curls into smooth, defined ringlets. Jane could smell the floral scent of the hair potion Lily used to style her hair with. Jane could have sworn she mentioned something about how James Potter's parents had invented the miracle product.

Next came the makeup. Lily applied foundation with gentle strokes, evening out Jane's complexion. She brushed on blush to bring a soft glow to her cheeks, then added a hint of shimmer to her eyelids. The precise flick of eyeliner and a coat of mascara made Jane's eyes stand out, and a touch of rosy lip colour completed the look.

As Lily painted Jane's nails with a deep, festive red, Jane couldn't help but ask, "What about you, Lily? Don't you need to get ready?"

Lily waved off her concern with a dismissive flick of her hand, careful not to spill any polish. "Oh, I'm fine. James will be there, so I'm guaranteed to have a dance partner," she said with a mischievous twinkle in her eye. "Tonight's all about you, Jane."

"Thank you, Lily." Jane had never been this pampered and she was doing her best not to be overwhelmed by it.

"Anything for you, Jane. Now, let's get you into that dress."

Easing into the dress, Jane's cheeks reddened as she tried to maintain a semblance of modesty with her friend nearby. The barely familiar fabric draped seamlessly over her skin, and as she turned to face the mirror, she was met with the reflection of a stranger. The dress, with its exquisite cut and tailored fit, transformed her silhouette, accentuating curves she hadn't known existed. Her newly styled hair and carefully applied makeup complemented the ensemble, creating a striking and unexpected image. With a hesitant twirl, she watched as the dress swirled around her, a vibrant halo of colour that seemed to illuminate her entire being. In that moment, a wave of self-confidence washed over her, a sensation as foreign and exhilarating as the dress itself.

Clapping her hands together, Lily's face lit up with pride. "You look absolutely breathtaking, Jane!" Her voice was filled with genuine admiration.

"I can't believe how amazing that dress looks on you. You're going to turn heads tonight. Are you ready to knock everyone's socks off?"

Jane felt a surge of confidence she hadn't experienced in years. A shy smile crept across her lips as she replied, "Ready as I'll ever be." She couldn't help but twirl once more, the fabric of the dress whispering against her skin. In that moment, she felt like a different person, one that might even call herself pretty.

Hand in hand, they descended the winding staircase, the anticipation of the evening growing with each step. The Hufflepuff common room unveiled itself like a magical winter wonderland. Garlands of holly, their berries glistening like ruby droplets, adorned the stone walls. While strands of fairy lights transformed the familiar space into an enchanting and somewhat romantic dreamscape. A crackling hearth cast an inviting glow, its warmth dancing on the faces of the students gathered within. The room was abuzz with excited chatter, the scent of oranges and freshly baked treats filling the air.

A sea of vibrant colours filled the common room as students, decked out in their finest attire, mingled and laughed. The room pulsed with energy, a lively soundtrack provided by a talented group of students who had traded their wands for instruments. Their music filled the space, a captivating blend of traditional carols and modern tunes that inspired spontaneous bursts of dancing. The rhythmic tapping of feet and the clinking of glasses added to the festive ambiance, creating a magical atmosphere that promised a night to remember.

Jane and Lily waded through the cheerful throng, their arms linked as they navigated the bustling crowd. Friends called out greetings, their faces alight with genuine joy. With each warm embrace and shared laugh, Jane felt the her worries lift just a bit more. Everything about the atmosphere of the Hufflepuff common room provided a much-needed respite from the stresses of the past few weeks.

Lily remained steadfastly by Jane's side, a constant source of support and encouragement. She effortlessly maneuvered through the crowd, introducing Jane to a colorful array of students from different houses. A devious smirk appeared as Lily attempted to play matchmaker, suggesting once again that Jane and Remus Lupin would make a perfect couple. Jane's cheeks flushed with a mixture of amusement and embarrassment as she gently declined, explaining that their friendship was too precious to risk. Lily, ever the optimist, simply grinned and promised to try again later.

Refusing to give up on her matchmaking mission, Lily soon turned her attention to Peter Pettigrew. Why she had was a mystery to Jane. The witch knew Jane's answer, she had already given it. Alas, less than two minutes later, she tried to subtly pair Jane with the quiet Gryffindor. Jane, ever the gracious friend, declined with a smile, teasing Lily about her unwavering need to play cupid.

Lily laughed, "I just want to see you having a fantastic time, Jane," she insisted. "Imagine a handsome wizard sweeping you off your feet."

"I know you're just trying to look out for me, Lily," she said softly. "And honestly, I'm having an amazing time. This is exactly what I needed. No bloke will tonight any better."

As Jane savoured another goblet of frothy butterbeer, a shy fourth-year Hufflepuff approached her table, his face painted with nervousness. Gathering his courage, he extended a trembling hand and asked, "Would you like to dance?" He was barely audible over the lively chatter of the room.

Jane nodded graciously, hoping to appease Lily's persistent matchmaking attempts. She placed her hand in his and allowed him to lead her onto the dance floor. The boy's nerves were evident as he stumbled through the steps, his face turning a deeper shade of crimson with each awkward manoeuvre. Despite the clumsy dance, Jane managed to maintain a pleasant smile, determined to make the most of the situation.

Lost in the rhythmic sway of the dance floor, Jane was caught off guard by a strong hand descending on her shoulder. Her heart skipped a beat as she turned to find Snape standing behind her, his dark stare fixed on her with an intensity that chilled even the merrier in her bones. He had the look of a man going to war for Helen. The music seemed to fade into the background as their attention became fixated on each other, and the enchanted atmosphere of the common room suddenly felt stifling.

"May I have this dance?" Snape's voice cut through the music, low and insistent. Before she could think, he took her hand. His hold was firm as he guided her away from her bewildered dance partner.

Anger flared within Jane. "No," she resolutely replied. She tried to pull her hand free, but his grip tightened, forcing her to remain where she was.

"I believe we have unfinished business, Jane." Snape purred in her ear as he pulled her close. His fingers wrapped around her waist, moving her into the proper position.

His movements were precise as he led her through the waltz, a juxtaposition to the timid steps of her previous dance partner. The music seemed to blur into a distant hum as Jane found herself completely absorbed by the intensity of the moment.

Frustration simmered beneath Jane's skin. "You won't leave me alone, will you?" she hissed, her words slicing through the music. She stared him down, a challenge in her expression.

Snape's face remained an impenetrable mask as they moved in perfect synchronicity across the dance floor. If anything, his movements seemed to grow even more graceful in response to her growing agitation. "I am merely looking out for your well-being," he advised with a hint of condescension.

"You're suffocating me," she retorted. "I don't need your protection or your advice. Leave me alone."

His grip tightened momentarily before he relaxed it, his lips twitching ever so slightly. "You underestimate the dangers that surround us," he warned.

"Enough, Snape," she snapped, making another futile attempt to break free from his hold, her patience wearing thin. "I've had enough of your interference. Let me enjoy this evening in peace."

Before Snape could reply, a familiar voice bellowed over the music. "Leave her alone, Snape." Pushing through the dancers, Sirius Black emerged, his usual broad smile hardened into a sneer as he focused on Snape with undisguised hostility. "Is there a problem here?"

Snape's lip curled into a sneer. "Just a private conversation, Black," he replied icily, releasing Jane's hand reluctantly.

"Snivellus, old mate," Sirius sneered, emphasising the last word mockingly, "I didn't know you had a thing for interrupting perfectly good dances. Shouldn't you be lurking in the shadows or stirring your cauldrons?"

His spidery eyes flashing with anger, Snape kept his voice steady. "I was merely having a conversation with Jane," he replied tersely.

"A conversation?" Sirius scoffed. "More like a stranglehold. Come on, Jane, let's get you away from this gloomy git." Sirius offered Jane his arm, a protective gesture that didn't go unnoticed by Snape.

Jane felt a sharp pain shoot through her temples, a sudden headache piercing her thoughts. She clenched her jaw, trying to push past the discomfort. The noise and tension in the room seemed to amplify the throbbing in her head.

As Snape and Sirius squared off, Jane's headache pulsed in rhythm with their escalating tension. Sirius stood tall, his posture exuding a casual defiance that contrasted sharply with Snape's rigid composure. The dance floor seemed to shrink around them as other students discreetly watched the brewing confrontation.

Snape's jaw clenched, but he maintained a controlled demeanour. "I'm not here to entertain you, Black," he shot back sharply.

Sirius chuckled mirthlessly, crossing his arms. "Right, because eavesdropping on private conversations and whisking away unwilling dance partners is just your way of being the life of the party, I suppose."

Now standing at the edge of the dance floor, Jane rubbed her temples, trying to ease the throbbing pain. She felt torn between frustration at Snape's persistence and relief at Sirius's intervention. The growing tension between the two boys was making her headache worse.

"Snivellus," Sirius continued, dropping to a low, dangerous whisper, "you're not fooling anyone. Jane doesn't need your 'protection'—she needs you to leave her alone."

Snape's fists clenched, a flicker of something unreadable passing over his face before he spoke again, his words colder now. "I suggest you mind your own business, Black. Jane is capable of making her own decisions."

Sirius took a step closer, his presence looming over Snape, he was just taller than the Slytherin. "Funny," he remarked with a smirk, "I don't recall Jane asking for your opinion."

Before Snape could retort, Jane turned and quickly made her way through the crowd, her headache intensifying with each step. She needed to escape the rising tension, to find solace away from Snape's relentless scrutiny and Sirius's protective but overwhelming presence.

As she reached the quieter corridors leading to the girl's dormitory, Jane leaned against the cool stone wall, closing her eyes briefly to steady herself. The pulsing ache in her head began to subside, replaced by a weariness that settled deep within her. She couldn't shake the feeling that tonight's confrontation was just the beginning of something larger, something that threatened to disrupt the fragile peace she sought to maintain at Hogwarts. A sense of dread washed over her as she considered the possibility of more encounters with Snape, and the inevitable fallout that would likely follow.

A/N: Just a fun little chapter because the only thing the wifi is letting me do is edit. So now a bunch of chapters are ready to go. Also if your any of my new discords friends *waves*