Just One Yule Night

"Potter! Weasley! Will you pay attention?" McGonagall's irritated voice cracked like a whip through the Transfiguration class on Thursday.

It had been a relatively uneventful class, where we had to convert a guinea fowl into a guinea pig. This had prompted me to consider whether I should start skipping practical classes too. Until now, I had only been skipping the theory ones—except for Snape's, of course, because he was simply insufferable. Honestly, he's just a brat who physically grew up but mentally remains an angsty teenager, convinced the world should burn because he was bullied and didn't get the girl he wanted. Pathetic behavior, really.

I had half-heartedly written down the homework—something about adapting a spell for cross-species transformation—though it was clear I wasn't going to actually do it. It was no secret that I was using the Champion privilege to the fullest.

Ron and I looked up at McGonagall, jolting out of our mock sword fight with the fake wands Fred and George had given us. We tried to focus and figure out why we were being called, noticing McGonagall sending a withering glare in our direction.

"Now that Potter and Weasley have been kind enough to act their age," McGonagall said with an angry look, "I have something to say to you all."

"The Yule Ball is approaching—a traditional part of the Triwizard Tournament and an opportunity for us to socialize with our foreign guests. The ball will be open only to fourth years and above—although you may invite a younger student if you wish—"

Lavender Brown let out a shrill giggle. Parvati Patil nudged her hard in the ribs, her face working furiously as she tried to stifle her laughter. McGonagall ignored them, which I thought was distinctly unfair, given that she had just told me and Ron off.

"Dress robes will be worn," McGonagall continued, "and the ball will start at eight o'clock on Christmas Day, finishing at midnight in the Great Hall. Now then—"

McGonagall stared deliberately around the class. "The Yule Ball is, of course, a chance for us all to—er—let our hair down," she said in a disapproving voice.

Lavender giggled harder than ever, pressing her hand against her mouth to stifle the sound. I could see what was funny this time: McGonagall, with her hair in a tight bun, looked as though she had never let her hair down in any sense.

"But that does NOT mean," McGonagall went on, "that we will be relaxing the standards of behavior we expect from Hogwarts students. I will be most seriously displeased if a Gryffindor student embarrasses the school in any way. An official announcement for the ball will be made this Saturday, and I expect EVERY SINGLE one of you to be on your best behavior."

The bell rang, and there was the usual scuffle of activity as everyone packed their bags and swung them onto their shoulders.

McGonagall called above the noise, "Potter— a word, if you please."

Realizing why she had called me, I waited patiently at the teacher's table. Professor McGonagall waited until the rest of the class had left, then said, "Potter, the champions and their partners—"

"Partners… Dance partners?" I asked. Even in my last life, I had rarely attended events. Most days after Voldemort's demise were spent hunting dark wizards, learning magic, and burying my face in books. It had almost gotten worse than Hermione if I'm being honest.

"Oh yes, dance partners," said Professor McGonagall pointedly. "That's what I'm telling you. Traditionally, the champions and their partners open the ball."

"So, I am supposed to…" I started, but trailed off.

"It is traditional," said Professor McGonagall firmly. "You are a Hogwarts champion, and you will do what is expected of you as a representative of the school. So make sure you get yourself a partner, Potter."

"Of course, Professor," I said, mentally sighing, and gave her a nod.

"Good—Try to get a dance partner not on the last day," McGonagall said, and I winced internally at the memory of my last ball. I hastily nodded.

Finding Ron and Hermione in the Great Hall proved to be an easy task. I settled down beside Hermione, who had sausage rolls on her plate. Ron was on her other side and was eating… well, let's not talk about his eating habits.

I looked around the table and started filling a plate for myself as well.

"Why did McGonagall call you?" Ron asked, his words half-muffled by the food stuffed in his mouth. Hermione wrinkled her nose in disgust.

"Oh, for God's sake, RONALD!" She exclaimed. "Don't speak with your mouth full!"

Ron grumbled incoherently, deflating a little, though he did send a glare her way.

"She said that the champions and their partners will open the ball… So I need to get a dance partner," I explained as I finally completed putting the food I wanted on my plate.

"You got anyone specific in mind?" Hermione asked, almost teasingly. Instantly, my mind conjured an image of the silver-haired witch under the starry sky. A light pink hue tinted my cheeks, but I quickly clamped down my Occlumency shields to dispel it. This, though, didn't go unnoticed by Hermione.

Hermione bit her lower lip, her face showing contemplation. "So you do have someone in mind?" she asked with a smirk. She poked me with her elbow and asked, "Who?"

This sudden teasing side of Hermione caught me off guard, and I became extremely flustered. "Her—Hermione!"

Hermione giggled, and Ron seemed amused as well. After swallowing the food in his mouth, Ron asked, "But really—who is it?"

I decided to focus on my plate instead of answering. Why was I feeling so flustered? Seriously, I'm 19! Can a young body really mess this much with emotions?

The two of them continued teasing me, trying to get a name out of me, but I kept my silence. After a while, Hermione started practicing the Wand-Lighting Charm again, trying to adjust the intensity.

"What's the next class?" I asked after I had finished. My eyes roamed across the hall. There was a layer of excitement shrouding the hall. It seemed that Slytherin and Ravenclaw students had also found out about the ball. In the distance, I noticed Blaise Zabini asking some fifth-year Ravenclaw and getting pummeled by a dozen Stupefy spells.

Ron snorted, and a chuckle escaped my lips. Even Hermione cracked a smile, though she looked slightly repulsed by the violence. She turned back and said, "We have Double DADA next."

Ron's eyes lit up, but I, extremely bored, said, "Yeah, I'm skipping it."

"What?" Ron asked, his neck whipping around in shock and confusion. "Mate—You never skip practical classes."

"I've already practiced the stuff he'll give us today," I shrugged. "I'd rather focus on preparing for the task."

Hermione sighed. It seemed she wanted to argue but remained silent. She was always the more sensible one, the one who didn't wear her emotions on her sleeve. She asked, "Have you figured out the egg yet?"

I looked around and then leaned in a little so only she and Ron could hear. "I've figured out how to do it, but I haven't had a chance to check it yet. I'll do it today."

"Really? Figured it out already? That's amazing! That will give you so much time over the other champions," Hermione gushed, impressed by my confession. I knew why she was so impressed—someone she knew had yet to figure it out.

"Well, it's time," I said, casting tempus to check the time. "I think you guys should head to DADA."

Soon, both of them left, leaving me alone in the Great Hall. I was about to stand up and leave when a shy voice greeted me.

"Um… Harry?" I turned and noticed a golden blonde-haired girl, standing very timidly. She had sharp Aristocratic features and distinctly sharp almost electric blue eyes. She almost reminded me of one of the girls from my year, but I couldn't quite place who.

"Oh, Hey, Miss…?" I said, hoping she would tell me her name.

"I am Green—As–Astoria Greengrass," She fumbled, almost comically. But hearing her name, I finally realized who she resembled—Daphne Greengrass. Astoria was in the Slytherin uniform. In my periphery I noticed a few people's eyes fell in my direction.

"Daphne's sister I presume?" I asked and she nodded, almost too quickly. "Have a seat. What do you wanna talk about?"

Astoria shifted on her feet, clearly nervous. After settling, she opened her mouth to speak but hesitated. "I—" she began, her voice barely a whisper. "I wanted to talk to you… if that's alright."

Not wanting to make her uncomfortable, I gently said, "Of course, Astoria. What do you wanna talk about?"

Astoria glanced around the Great Hall as if worried someone might overhear them. Most of the students were caught up in conversations or excitedly discussing the Yule Ball, but there still were many nosy prying eyes and ears. She took a deep breath, then spoke in a shaky voice.

"I… I know this might sound odd," she started, "but I've been meaning to ask you something. You know, about the Yule Ball."

I know it's tightened in my stomach. I had expected this when she started this conversation, but there was a small hope that she wouldn't, that there was some other motive. Regardless of how I felt, I remained polite towards the young girl and nodded encouragingly.

Astoria took another breath, doing her best to keep her voice steady. "I was wondering if you… if you didn't already have a date, maybe you'd… um, like to go with me?"

Her words came out in a rush, and I could see how much effort it had taken for her to ask. Astoria's eyes were wide, her cheeks now fully flushed, and she looked down at the floor, clearly expecting rejection.

For a second, I was truly impressed by her bravery. I looked at Astoria, seeing how nervous she was and understanding how difficult it must have been for her to approach me, especially given the divide between our houses.

I didn't want to hurt her feelings, but I also knew I had to be honest.

"Um, Astoria," I began carefully, "I really appreciate you asking. I think that's really brave of you. But I… well, I'm sorry, but I've kind of got someone else in mind for the Ball."

Astoria's face fell slightly, but she quickly tried to hide her disappointment. "Oh… I see," she murmured, her voice quiet. She looked as though she was trying her best not to let the rejection sting too much.

Seeing her discomfort, I quickly added, "But really, it's nothing personal. I think you're great, and honestly, I'm really flattered you'd ask me. I just… you know, had someone else in mind."

Astoria nodded, biting her lip as she stared at the floor. "It's okay," she said, though her voice still trembled a little. "I shouldn't have asked."

I immediately shook his head. "No, no! I'm really glad you asked. It takes a lot of guts to do that." I smiled warmly, trying to ease the tension. "I know how hard it is to ask someone—trust me."

Astoria glanced up at me, her expression softening slightly at my words. "You do?"

I nodded and said, "Yeah, I mean, it's not easy. I've been trying to figure out how to ask someone myself."

Astoria gave a small smile, though it was still tinged with embarrassment.

"I'm glad you felt comfortable asking me," I said gently, sensing her growing discomfort. "And I really hope you find someone to go with. You deserve to have a great time."

Astoria gave a tentative smile, finally meeting my eyes. "Thanks, Harry. That… that means a lot."

I smiled back, feeling relieved that she wasn't too upset. "No problem. And if you ever need anything, feel free to come talk to me. I'll always be around."

Astoria nodded, seeming a bit more relaxed now. "I will. Thanks again." She offered me a small wave before turning to leave, her steps a little lighter than before.

I felt a small weight that had slowly built up during the conversation fell off my shoulders. I was happy with how I handled the situation. In my last life I would have probably accepted the offer but right now, I wanted to ask some else—Fleur Delacour.

I couldn't run away from the truth longer; I actually liked her. And I needed to get everything straight. I needed to figure out why I liked her. Because this was just too abrupt for me.

I looked around the Hall again and then stood up to leave.

The rest of the day went on relatively normal. I checked the egg and found that the task was the same as the last life… So I would have to warn Ron and Hermione beforehand too… I also spent many hours just practicing the things I have learnt from Slytherin's Diary. I could cast many things, but I was yet to master many aspects of most spells. Also, no Diabolica, I didn't even know the theory or intent that was needed for them. And those spells literally suck magic from the user's body and can destroy half the country… I needed a way to contact Grindelwald before his death.

Soon Saturday arrived and with it arrived the announcement that was really just a wakeup call for those living under a rock, since most had already found out about the ball. Saturday was a normal day for me, but Sunday was different. Even as I woke up, I felt a pang of thrill, anticipation and excitement for the meeting. It had been a great decision—to ask her to meet just the day after the announcement.

The morning by the Black Lake was brisk, the cold air biting at my skin as I stood waiting for Fleur. The sun was just starting to rise, casting a soft, golden light over the water. I couldn't stop running through different conversations in my head, all the ways this could go. I wasn't nervous about many things these days—not after everything I'd been through—but Fleur was different.

Last night, after the Yule Ball announcement at the feast, I'd tried to catch her eye, but she'd been as unreadable as ever. Now, I was waiting for her at the same spot where we'd spoken after the First Task.

Footsteps behind me pulled me from my thoughts. I turned to see Fleur approaching, her silver-blonde hair catching the sunlight like strands of moonlight. She had that effortless grace about her, like she didn't belong in this world at all.

"Morning," I finally managed to get out, trying not to stare too obviously. "Glad you came."

She raised an eyebrow, those sapphire eyes locking onto mine, her lips curving into a slight smile. "Of course. You asked me to meet you, non?"

"Yeah… yeah, I did." I rubbed the back of my neck awkwardly, glancing out at the lake for a moment to collect myself. "It's… quiet here. Peaceful."

"Oui," she agreed, her eyes following mine to the water, though her expression stayed unreadable. "I like it 'ere. It is different from ze castle."

Her voice was soft but rich, carrying the elegance she wore so effortlessly. Everything about her—from the way her hair shimmered to the grace in her movements—was enough to leave anyone speechless. I'd never met anyone like her.

I smiled, trying to sound a little more relaxed than I felt. "So, you're feeling okay? After everything that happened in the First Task, I mean."

Fleur's eyes flickered with something—maybe surprise—before her lips curled into a faint smile. "I am fine. Merci. You 'elped me. More zan you 'ad to."

"I couldn't just leave you there," I said, my voice softening. "My friends say that I have a 'People Saving thing'."

Her smile lingered as she turned her head slightly, that curtain of silver hair falling over her shoulder like silk. "It was very brave. Not everyone would 'ave done zat."

"I don't know," I said, grinning a bit, trying to lighten the mood. "Maybe I was just showing off."

Fleur let out a soft laugh, her eyes twinkling for just a moment. "You? Showing off? I zink not."

I laughed with her, though my eyes kept drifting to the way the light played on her flawless skin, making it look even more perfect, like marble or something more delicate. Every movement, every flicker of emotion on her face, was graceful—like she was meant to be admired. And I couldn't help but admire her.

"So," I started, after a pause, trying to keep my voice casual, "what do you think of Hogwarts so far?"

Her eyes turned back to mine, and I was caught again by the intensity of that blue—so bright it was almost piercing. "It is… different," she said, considering her words. "Cold sometimes, but zere is a certain charm."

"Yeah," I said, nodding. "It grows on you."

Fleur looked at me for a moment, a small smile playing on her lips. "Zere is something else, yes? Something you are not saying."

I raised an eyebrow, caught off guard by how easily she saw through me. "What makes you say that?"

She tilted her head slightly, her silver hair shimmering again as she moved. "You 'ave a certain look, 'Arry. Like you are waiting to ask something."

I chuckled, shaking my head. "Alright, maybe there is."

She arched an elegant eyebrow, those sapphire eyes watching me closely. "And what is zat?"

I hesitated, glancing away for a moment before looking back at her. "Well, the Yule Ball's coming up…"

Her lips pressed together slightly, a subtle shift in her expression, but she didn't say anything.

"And I was wondering," I continued, my heart beating a little faster now, "if you might want to go. With me."

Fleur's eyes softened, though there was something guarded there too. She folded her arms, her pale, slender fingers resting against her porcelain skin. "Harry… you know zat zis is not so simple."

"I know," I said, stepping a little closer, trying to keep the conversation light. "But it's just one night. One dance. Nothing more than that."

She sighed, her gaze drifting toward the lake again. For a moment, the sunlight reflected off her hair, making it seem like she was glowing. "You are… very sweet," she said softly. "But I worry. You are still… young."

"I'm not as young as you think," I said quickly, my voice low but firm. "I've been through a lot. "

Fleur turned her eyes back to me, and I felt like I was being examined under those sapphire-blue irises."But zere are still things you 'ave not experienced."

I smiled, shrugging a little. "Maybe. But I'd like to experience this—with you."

Her lips quirked up just a little, though her eyes still held that uncertainty. "You are very persistent, 'Arry."

"Maybe," I said, grinning. "But I've always heard persistence pays off."

Fleur laughed softly again, the sound like music in the stillness around us. She turned to face me fully now, her silver-blonde hair catching the light and falling gracefully down her back, and for a moment, I thought I saw her considering it.

"You really wish to go to ze Ball with me?" she asked, her voice softer now.

I nodded. "Yeah. I can't imagine going with anyone else."

For a long moment, Fleur studied me, her sapphire eyes thoughtful. Finally, she sighed, and a small, reluctant smile tugged at the corners of her lips.

"Alright," she said, her voice barely above a whisper. "I will go with you."

I couldn't help the grin that spread across my face. "Really?"

"Oui," she said, though her smile was still cautious. "But remember, 'Arry—zis is not simple. People will talk."

"I don't care what they say," I said, my voice softer. "And you shouldn't either."

She shook her head, her silver hair shimmering as it caught the light again. "You are very brave. And a little foolish."

"I get that a lot," I said, laughing softly.

Fleur smiled, though it was still a little unsure. "We will see, 'Arry. We will see."

As she turned to leave, the sunlight hit her just right, making her look even more ethereal than before. I watched her walk away, feeling lighter than I had in days. One night with Fleur at the Yule Ball—it was more than I could've hoped for, but exactly what I wished.

Author's Note: So, hopefully you guys will like this chapter. This one is more dialogue heavy and... It is really just not that good in my opinion. Grammar is I think good since I used Chat GPT to correct my grammar. It was a good idea I think. Wrote this in like 3 hours, so very surprised honestly. Give me suggestion and reviews please so I can improve. Also 50k words done.

Okay VERY IMPORTANT NEWS-MY HALF YEARLY EXAMS ARE STARTING SO PROBABLY NO UPDATES FOR A MONTH, OKAY?