Cedric Diggory could also be a rival. He's known for being charming and popular. He might notice Gabrielle and Harry having a good time and decide to try and steal Gabrielle away from Harry, using his own charm and good looks to his advantage.
There's also a possibility that it's a new character created specifically for this fanfiction. This new character could bring a fresh perspective and allow the author to explore different aspects of Harry's gentlemanly behavior at the Yule Ball.
One idea could be that Gabrielle is initially shy at the Yule Ball but Harry helps her come out of her shell. They share a dance and start a friendship that might develop into something more in the future.
Draco Malfoy and his cronies could be antagonists. They might try to disrupt Harry and Hannah's time at the Yule Ball out of jealousy or just to cause trouble. For example, they could spill drinks on Hannah's dress or try to steal Harry's dance partner for a dance just to annoy them.
In this fanfiction about the Yule Ball, there are many possibilities for Harry and Cho. They could be initially hesitant around each other. However, the Yule Ball is a special event full of magic and wonder. Maybe they find a quiet corner to talk, away from the noise and the crowd. During their conversation, Cho might open up about her feelings for Cedric, which could lead to Harry comforting her in a new and deeper way, strengthening their bond.
Well, in the 'Harry and Padma Yule Ball fanfiction', perhaps Padma is really excited to go to the ball with Harry. But Harry is distracted by his ongoing battle against Voldemort. However, Padma manages to draw him into the moment. They share a beautiful dance and during the ball, Padma gives Harry some valuable insights about the wizarding world outside of Hogwarts which makes Harry see things from a different perspective.
Well, perhaps in this fanfiction, Daphne has a secret mission at the Yule Ball. She's supposed to spy on Harry for some Slytherin plot. But as she gets closer to Harry during the ball, she starts to have second thoughts. Harry, on the other hand, is just looking for a nice evening after all the Triwizard Tournament stress. They end up having a long conversation during a slow dance and start to develop a friendship that could potentially turn into something more.
Perhaps Pansy would be all dressed up in a beautiful, dark - colored gown for the Yule Ball. When she sees Harry, she decides to approach him in a very different way than she usually does, with a bit of shyness. Harry, being the gentleman he is, is polite to her. And they might share a dance that surprises everyone at the ball.
One possible plot could be that Tonks, using her Metamorphmagus abilities, disguises herself as someone else to secretly attend the Yule Ball with Harry. They share a few dances and have deep conversations about the wizarding world's future and the challenges they both face. Harry is initially confused by her disguised appearance but later realizes it's Tonks.
Luna Lovegood would make an interesting main character. She could go to the ball with her unique style, wearing something really out - of - the - ordinary. And she might see things at the ball that others don't, like magical creatures that are attracted to the celebration. Neville Longbottom could also be a main character. He could be nervous about going to the ball, but then gain confidence as the night goes on, especially if he has a kind partner who encourages him.
Harry could comfort Hermione by giving her a small gift at the Yule Ball. It could be something he made himself, like a simple charmed flower that never wilts. This would show Hermione that he values her and wants to make her feel special. She would be touched by this gesture and it would help her forget about any negative feelings she had.