Chapter 22
The next morning, they visited the Louvre Museum. Petunia and Lily were captivated by the grandeur of the museum and its vast collection of art. They stood in awe before the Mona Lisa, discussing the mysterious smile and the artistry of Leonardo da Vinci. Henry, ever the history enthusiast, guided them through the exhibits, sharing tidbits he had read about the artifacts.
Later, they strolled through Montmartre, exploring the quaint streets filled with artists sketching portraits and painting vibrant scenes. Violet couldn't resist purchasing a delicate watercolor of the Sacré-Cœur Basilica as a keepsake. Lily and Petunia, meanwhile, indulged in macarons from a charming patisserie, marveling at the colorful confections.
One of the highlights of their trip was a visit to the magical community in France, Hidden within a bustling arrondissement of Paris, this enchanted neighborhood "Place Cachée" was the French equivalent to Diagon Alley. was accessible through a secret entrance in the back of a bookshop. As they stepped through the enchanted doorway, the air filled with the scent of freshly brewed potions and magical herbs. Shops lined the cobblestone streets, their windows displaying everything from enchanted jewelry to rare potion ingredients.
Lily and Petunia were particularly fascinated by a store called "L'Atelier des Rêves," where the walls were lined with enchanted snow globes. Each globe contained a miniature scene from famous magical locations. Petunia purchased one that depicted the bustling streets of Diagon Alley, while Lily chose one showing a serene view of the Beauxbatons Academy.
As Yule approached, the Evans family returned to their cozy hotel suite, which was decorated festively with garlands . On Yule morning, Violet and Henry excitedly handed out gifts. Petunia and Lily unwrapped packages filled with stylish clothes, beautiful bags, and new shoes. Their parents' thoughtfulness and generosity left the sisters beaming with gratitude.
"There's more," Henry said with a grin, handing them envelopes containing additional monetary gifts. "For your adventures in Place Cachée that you told me about ."
"Thank you, Dad," Petunia said, hugging him tightly. "I'll make sure to find something special."
After the family exchange, Petunia turned to her pile of gifts from friends. She picked up Severus's gift first, unwrapping it to reveal a stunning snow globe. Inside, a miniature Hogwarts castle stood atop a snowy hill, its windows glowing warmly. Tiny enchanted snowflakes swirled inside, giving the scene a serene and magical feel.
"This is beautiful," Petunia murmured, holding it up for Lily to see.
"Sev always picks thoughtful gifts," Lily said with a smile.
Next, Petunia unwrapped Emmeline's gift: a comprehensive book on herbology, bound in green leather with embossed golden lettering.
Pandora's gift was a small glass terrarium, complete with miniature magical plants that glowed faintly in the dark. "A portable garden," Pandora's note read. "I thought you'd like it." Petunia smiled, already imagining where she'd place it in her dormitory.
Finally, she hesitated before opening the last gift, which was from Sirius Black. Inside, she found a delicate necklace with a purple gemstone shaped like a petunia flower, surrounded by intricate silver leaves. The craftsmanship was exquisite, and the gemstone shimmered with an otherworldly light.
"This is too much," Petunia said, frowning. "It looks expensive. I should send it back."
"You don't even know his address," Lily pointed out, laughing. "Just thank him when school starts."
Petunia sighed, placing the necklace back in its box. "I'll return it to him then. It's… not like we're close."
"Maybe he has a crush on you," Lily teased, winking.
"Don't be ridiculous," Petunia retorted, though her cheeks flushed slightly. She set the necklace aside and joined her family as they prepared for a special Christmas dinner.
The family dined at a renowned Parisian restaurant, its opulent interior decorated with glittering chandeliers and garlands of holly. They savored a multi-course meal, including rich French onion soup, coq au vin, and delicate pastries for dessert. Over dinner, their parents asked about life at Hogwarts.
Lily enthusiastically shared stories about her classes, her favorite being Charms, and funny anecdotes about her Gryffindor roommates. Petunia spoke about her new friends in Ravenclaw and her love for Transfiguration, though she admitted that she missed her family terribly at times.
"We miss you both so much," Violet said, her eyes glistening. "That's why we wanted this trip to be so special."
"It's been perfect," Lily said, smiling at her parents. "Thank you for everything."
The rest of the evening was spent wandering the streets of Paris, admiring the festive lights and creating cherished memories. As the holiday drew to a close.