When the Yule Ball was announced, you had been excited to go to the dance with your boyfriend for a romantic evening, but your hopes were quickly destroyed. You and Cedric had started dating a couple of months before he was chosen to take part in the Triwizard tournament. You had planned to tell people that you were together around that time but it didn't take long until all the contestants were scrutinised by Rita Skeeter and it was just a better idea to keep the relationship a secret until the end of the competition. It wasn't an ideal circumstance. You wanted people to know that you were together, to show your happiness, but Cedric insisted on keeping it a secret, worried about how the reporter and others may treat you if they knew.

Sneaking around to steal kisses and spend time together wasn't the best option but it was okay for now, but the Yule Ball was a different story. Both of you agreed that it may be suspicious if you went to the Yule Ball together, so Cedric suggested to take other people. You hated the idea, but this was his time and you weren't going to get in the way. Both of you found your dates and tried to make the most of your evening.

You saw Cedric and his date dancing and smiling, whilst you had done your best to avoid your date. Although it hurt you, you tried to grin and bear it, but it didn't take long until to you couldn't take it any longer. You had spent too long stood on the side of the room in your gown, watching your boyfriend dancing with another girl, so you took your leave and escaped the room, planning to head back to your dorm.

Once you were up a set of stares and far enough away from people, Cedric made himself known, calling out your name. You hadn't noticed him leave the hall with you, but you couldn't deny that you were glad to see him.

"Where are you going?" He asked.

"I couldn't watch you any longer," you admitted. "I didn't want to ruin your enjoyment, but it isn't any fun to watch you with someone else."

Cedric's expression fell solemn. "I'm sorry. You know that I wish it could have been you that I was dancing with."

You shrugged your shoulders, not knowing what to believe about anything anymore. All you were certain of was that you wanted Cedric back as more than someone to hide your affection for.

"I'm tired of being your secret," you whispered.

He moved his hand to cup your face. "I don't want you to get hurt. Are you willing to risk that in having the world know about us?"

"I'm willing to do anything to be with you."

Cedric smiled down to you softly, sealing the decision in a sweet and gentle kiss.

~*~

Written by Charlotte.