xiii. damsels in distress

ϟ

Despite the very heavy load of homework that the fourth years had been given for the holidays, Matilda had managed to get through it all quite easily, and so she was able to spend the week leading up to Christmas enjoying herself as fully as possible along with everyone else. Ravenclaw Tower was hardly less crowded now than during term-time; it seemed to have shrunk slightly, too, as its inhabitants were brought so much rowdier than usual. It seems as though Fred and George Weasley had great success with their Canary Creams, and for the first couple of days of the holidays, students who bought from them kept bursting into feathers all over the place. Before long, however, students learned to treat food anybody else offered them with extreme caution, in case it had a Canary Cream concealed in the center.

Snow was falling thickly upon the castle and its grounds now. The pale blue Beauxbatons carriage looked like a large, chilly, frosted pumpkin next to the iced gingerbread house that was Hagrid's cabin, while the Durmstrang ship's portholes were glazed with ice, the rigging white with frost. The house-elves down in the kitchen were outdoing themselves with a series of rich, warming stews and savory puddings, and only Fleur Delacour seemed to be able to find anything to complain about.

"It is too 'eavy, all zis 'Ogwarts food," they heard her saying grumpily, as they left the Great Hall behind her one evening. "I will not fit into my dress robes!"

"Oooh, there's a tragedy," said Hermione snappily, as Fleur went out into the Entrance Hall. "She really thinks a lot of herself, that one, doesn't she?"

"You don't like her," said Matilda, having taken notice to Hermione's sour expressions when Fleur is brought up. "Why?"

Hermione turned to Matilda, wearing a look of surprise, "It isn't that I don't like her. She just complains a lot is all. Also, she is quite full of herself."

Matilda shook her head with a chuckle, knowing that Hermione wasn't telling the truth, "So? I complain all the time. And I've been told I'm quite the narcissist."

"It's different with you," Hermione argued.

Matilda didn't carry the topic with Hermione any further. She was smart enough to be able to tell that Hermione wasn't being completely honest. It wasn't only the complaining and conceitedness that made Hermione dislike Fleur, it was the beauty that Fleur had, and the attention that followed. It was the reason many other girls at Hogwarts seemed to dislike her.

Matilda didn't quite like the girl either. Not because of her beauty, which Matilda had taken quick notice to, or the fact that she's a bit conceited. She disliked Fleur for the same reasons she disliked the other Beauxbatons – because they had taken over the Ravenclaw Tower.

And Matilda would be lying if she claimed that she didn't hold an inch of respect for the girl. The only female champion among three boys. Fleur also seemed quite intelligent and was never outwardly rude to Matilda or the other students.

"Hermione – who are you going to the ball with?" said Ron.

He kept springing this question on her, hoping to startle her into a response by asking it when she least expected it. However, Hermione merely frowned and said, "I'm not telling you, you'll just make fun of me."

And she wasn't wrong. If she would tell him who had asked her to the ball, Ron would laugh in her face and refuse to believe a word she said after that. Matilda herself even had a hard believing it when Hermione had told her.

"You're joking, Weasley?" said Malfoy, behind them. "You're not telling me someone's asked that to the ball? Not the long-molared Mudblood?"

Harry, Matilda, and Ron whipped around, but Hermione said loudly, waving to somebody over Malfoy's shoulder, "Hello, Professor Moody!"

Malfoy went pale and jumped backward, looking wildly around for Moody, but he was still up at the staff table, finishing his stew.

"Twitchy little ferret, aren't you, Malfoy?" said Hermione scathingly, earning a laugh from Matilda as they made their way up the staircase.

"Hermione," said Ron, looking sideways at her, suddenly frowning, "your teeth ..."

"What about them?" Matilda asked, becoming defensive.

"Well, they're different... I've just noticed..."

"Of course, they are – did you expect me to keep those fangs Malfoy gave me?"

"No, I mean, they're different from how they were before he put that hex on you... they're all... straight and – and normal-sized."

Hermione turned to Matilda and the two girls grinned mischievously and both, Ron and Harry were now inspecting Hermione's new teeth.

"Well, when I went up to Madam Pomfrey to get them shrunk, Matilda came by to check on me just Madam Pomfrey held up a mirror, and told me to stop her when they were back to how they normally were," she said. "And Matilda suggested I... let her carry on a bit." She smiled even more widely. "Mum and Dad won't be too pleased. I've been trying to persuade them to let me shrink them for ages, but they wanted me to carry on with my brace. You know, they're dentists, they just don't think teeth and magic should – look! Pigwidgeon's back!"

Ron's tiny owl was twittering madly on the top of the icicle-laden banisters, a scroll of parchment tied to his leg. People passing him were pointing and laughing, and a group of third-year girls paused and said, "Oh, look at the weeny owl! Isn't he cute?"

"Stupid little feathery git!" Ron hissed, hurrying up the stairs and snatching Pigwidgeon up. "You bring letters straight to the addressee! You don't hang around showing off!"

"Oh, Ron, stop being so dramatic, will you?" Matilda slapped at his arm. "The poor owl is doing the best it can, and you shouldn't care what others think of him either. Especially, third-years."

Pigwidgeon hooted happily, his head protruding over Ron's fist. The third-year girls all looked very shocked.

"Clear off before I hex all of you!" Matilda snapped at them.

"Here – take it, Harry," Ron added in an undertone, as the third-year girls scuttled away looking scandalized. He pulled Sirius' reply off Pigwidgeon's leg, Harry pocketed it, and they hurried back to the Gryffindor Tower to read it.

Everyone in the common room was much too busy letting off more holiday steam to observe what anyone else was up to. Harry, Matilda, Ron, and Hermione sat apart from everyone else by a dark window that was gradually filling up with snow, and Harry read out:

Dear Harry,

Congratulations on getting past the Horntail, whoever put your name in that Goblet shouldn't be feeling too happy right now! I was going to suggest a Conjunctivitis curse, as a dragon's eyes are its weakest point –

"That's what Krum did!" Hermione whispered.

– but your way was better, I'm impressed.

Don't get complacent, though, Harry. You've only done one task; whoever put you in for the Tournament's got plenty more opportunity if they're trying to hurt you. Keep your eyes open – particularly when the person we discussed is around – and concentrate on keeping yourself out of trouble.

Keep in touch, I still want to hear about anything unusual.

Sirius

"He sounds exactly like Moody," said Harry quietly, tucking the letter away again inside his robes, "Constant vigilance! You'd think I walk around with my eyes shut, banging off the walls..."

"Well, you're not far from it," Matilda shrugged, earning a glare from Harry.

"Thanks, appreciate it, Tilly," Harry rolled his eyes.

"What? I'm not wrong!" Matilda defended herself. "And neither is Sirius. You really ought to have a look at that egg and begin to work out what it means before the last minute and I'm the one stuck having to solve it for you!"

"Exactly!" Hermione agrees with Matilda. "It wouldn't hurt to start theorizing at least."

"Girls, he's got ages!" snapped Ron. "Want a game of chess, Harry?"

When Harry nodded excitedly, Matilda stood from her seat, smoothing out her skirt, with a hash glare directed toward Harry and Ron.

"Well, I'm going to bed," she announced. "Harry, I will not sit around and watch as you waste your time, and allow Ron to aid you in doing so."

"Goodnight."

And Matilda left through the portrait hold with an unpleasant look in her eye. One that made Ron question if he should go after her and ask if he still had a date to the ball.

ϟ

Matilda was the last to wake in her dormitory on Christmas morning. Careful to not wake her up, the three other girls quietly made up their beds and tiptoed down to the Common Room. Matilda stayed, comfortably laid on her pillow until the bright light from outside sprung through the dark curtains and danced across her cheek.

She sat up slowly, rubbing her eyes, taking in her surroundings.

The atmosphere was always different on Christmas mornings. From her room, she could hear the excited chatter of other students as they passed her door on their way to collect their gifts. The smell of the fresh hot chocolate and treats that Flitwick would sit out in the Common Room filled Matilda's nostrils, giving her the motivation, she needed to get out of bed.

Digging through her chest of clothes Matilda quickly chose a large knitted sweater that she deemed festive enough, striped like a candy cane, and over that she pulled a high-waisted, black skirt that fell to her mid-thigh. Having showered the evening before, Matilda only pulled her hair back into a loose ponytail and started down the staircase and into her common room.

"Matilda,"

Luna had been on her way out of the room, her hands full of unwrapped gifts and candies. She had been on her way back to the dorm to drop her things onto her bed before going to breakfast.

"You're awake," she stated happily.

"Yes," said Matilda, wearing a tight-lipped grin. "I see you've had a satisfactory Christmas..."

Luna nodded excitedly.

"Oh, it's been splendid," she said, her eyes bright. "And I've got something for you."

Matilda watched with furrowed eyebrows as Luna dug through the boxes in her arms before handing a small box, wrapped in silver wrapping paper over to Matilda. On multiple occasions, Matilda had told her roommates not to worry about getting her any gifts, as she didn't want the stress of buying them something more than she already planned. But of course, it was unlikely any of them actually listened to her.

"Have a happy Christmas, Tilly,"

Matilda waved as Luna passed by her and started in the direction of their shared room.

Walking over to the large velvet couch that sat across from the fireplace Matilda opened the small box, revealing a pair of golden earrings. They looked to be homemade, which didn't surprise Matilda any, Luna always had a liking to handing out homemade gifts, but they were beautiful, much more than Matilda would have expected.

The earring dangled from the hook as little gold stars ran downward on the chain. The dainty pair of earrings had also been charmed to gleam and sparkle as they moved. With a smile, Matilda placed the pair of earrings back into their box and placed it beside her.

Matilda's other gifts were just as satisfactory. Harry had gotten Matilda a short-chained necklace that spelled her name in cursive writing. She had pointed it out in one of the shops when she snuck into Hogsmeade with him last year. Hermione had got her a set of decorative quills and colored-parchment paper; Padma had filled a bag with glosses and enchanted nail-polishes. Ron had gotten her an entire box of sweets, with a note explaining how he couldn't decide which she'd like best. And for the first time, she received an itchy, blue knitted sweater with a large bronze M sewn in the front, with a tag reading Molly Weasley.

Harper had purchased a few new sweaters and books and for Matilda, something simple, but also knowing they'd be appreciated. Her dad had sent her some of her favorite holiday sweets and a plush blanket. And her mum and David sent the new pair of shoes that Matilda had been hinting at in her letters home, as well a new pair of point shoes for dance, and some skirts.

Matilda had to take multiple trips to carry all of her gifts back to her room. On her last trip back to her room, she was stopped by Bentley Morgenstern who held a small, but neatly tucked bag. He had explained that it was from Daisy and that he was supposed to have put it under the tree yesterday evening but forgot as he had fallen asleep in the library. Matilda, fully understanding, happily accepted the gift and made her way back to her room, where the gifts were laid out across her bed.

So. Much. Stuff.

She didn't even want to put it all away, but she knew if she didn't, it'd spend the rest of the way bothering her. And so, Matilda began neatly putting away all of her gifts.

When she had finished and had started to leave her room with a growling stomach, something laying on her pillow had caught her eye. It was an envelope, plain, no name but hers. Walking back over to her bed, Matilda suspected that she had just forgotten to put it away, but after picking it up, she noticed it hadn't even been opened.

Carefully, with raised eyebrows Matilda opened the envelope, pulling out a silver charm bracelet with shining blue charms dangling from it, and a short piece of parchment. She turned it over, and read the scribbled words.

Matilda,

Brilliant. A brilliant young woman.

Keeping Harry alive could have been no easy task – but of course, you managed to do it. Not that I had any doubts. I never have met a witch as brilliant as you. Never. And I've met plenty in my time. How do I thank you for doing a job I had been supposed to be doing? How do I find the words to express what I need to say? I cannot. But I will continue to thank you.

I should have known it was going to be you. You being the one to keep him alive – to stand by him. I guess history does repeat itself, doesn't it? I hope things are good for you. I hope you're happy and well. Be sure to tell your dad I said hello, it's been a while. And please, stay safe and aware.

Merry Christmas,

Sirius.

A wave of confusion crashed over the raven-haired girl as she read and re-read the short letter. She wasn't going to deny that she was the one keeping Harry alive, but why would Sirius take the time to send a letter thanking her. She didn't get it, but she decided not to question it, as she had met him last year and he certainly wasn't in his right state of mind, perhaps he was still coming down from his temporary insanity.

Matilda's stomach growled once again, bringing her from her thoughts, and reminding her that she needed to eat. And so, after shoving the letter and the bracelet from Sirius in the drawer of her bedside table, she skipped down to breakfast.

ϟ

Matilda met up with Ron, Hermione, and Harry in the Great Hall and spent most of her morning with them in there, where other students were showing off the

In the Great Hall, Matilda met up with Harry, Hermione, and Ron, and they spent most of their morning together. They watched as students crowded around the Great Hall, enjoying their gifts and showing them off to friends. Hermione thanked Matilda for the books that she had gifted her as well as Ron for the newest wizarding chess collection, and Harry for his treats and gift certificate to Quality Quidditch Supplies.

Matilda had even noticed Harper walk in with the new jumper that Matilda had purchased for her. She grinned as Harper waved with a polite smile over at her little sister. The olive-toned sweater brought out her older sister's tan skin and light hazel eyes, just as she hoped it would.

The four of them had stayed in the Great Hall for so long that it became lunchtime and they had only then realized they'd been sitting in the same spot since breakfast. Everyone had already come and gone and was returning for lunch hour. They laughed at themselves as they helped themselves to yet another meal.

They went out into the grounds in the afternoon; the snow was untouched except for the deep channels made by the Durmstrang and Beauxbatons students on their way up to the castle. Hermione and Matilda chose to watch Harry and the Weasleys' snowball fight rather than join in, and at five o'clock Hermione said she was going back upstairs to get ready for the ball.

"What, you need three hours?" said George, looking at her incredulously, and paying for his lapse in concentration when a large snowball, thrown by Fred, hit him hard on the side of the head. "Who're you going with?" he yelled after Hermione, but she just waved, and disappeared up the stone steps into the castle.

Matilda remained in her spot for only a little while longer – just enough to finish the chapter she had started in the book about counter-curses that her dad had sent with his large box of gifts. With a long sigh Matilda closed the book, tucking it under her arm, and stood from the stone wall that she had been sitting upon.

"I should be going as well," she announced.

"We'll see you later, yeah?" Ron asked nervously.

Matilda grinned, knowing that he was only asking this to be sure that she was still planning on going to the ball – and going with him.

"Of course," she shrugged. "You are my date after all."

Ron smiled, already pinked cheeks from the cold breeze darkened as he offered Matilda a wave. And as Matilda entered the large wooden doors, leading into the Entrance Hall, she could heat the teasing from Fred and George to Ron begin.

ϟ

The dress that she had taken from Morgenstern Manor only days ago laid across Matilda's neatly made bed. Matilda stood staring at it while still dressed in the clothes she put on this morning. Thoughts about skipping the ball began to flood her brain. It would be easier to not go and she knew she'd be much more relieved if she decided to stay tucked in her Common Room for the evening – but Ron. Ron would be devasted and embarrassed, and so very angry with her.

So, rolling her eyes, she stopped the conflict happening in her head and decided to just go. Besides, she had already sat through the torture that was Padma doing her hair. Matilda had insisted on a charm, but Padma insisted they be given the full experience of getting ready for a ball. But with the amount of pulling and ripping that had happened while Padma stood behind Matilda with a brush and a hair iron, she was surprised she had any hair left.

Though she was pleasantly surprised as she looked in the mirror after Padma had finished. All of her hair had been pinned up on the back of her head in a messy but elegant looking bun. Loose strands of curled hair fell onto her shoulders. And placed throughout her hair were pins topped with golden stars, matching the earrings that Luna had gifted her.

"Oh, come on, Matilda," Padma whined.

Being drawn out of her head Matilda glanced back to where Cho stood zipping the bottom half of Padma's dress.

"Just put on the dress already," she urged.

Matilda rolled her eyes as she turned back to the dress. She unzipped the black dress bag that it had been put into for safekeeping, revealing the delicate maroon material. She picked the gown up and held it against her body, turning back to Padma, who was just now seeing the dress for the first time.

Padma gasped, as Cho stepped out from behind her.

"Wow."

Cho's eyes went wide and a smile spread across her lips.

"So simple, yet so you," Padma complimented.

Butterflies flew in Matilda's stomach as her roommates complimented the gown. She knew it wasn't much, nothing like the gowns that others would be wearing, but Padma was right, the dress was her. Flattering in all the ways it should be without showing off.

Once Matilda was out of her day clothes and standing in her undergarments she stepped into the silky material and gestured for Cho to come and zip her up. She did so, very gently, careful not to get the zipper stuck on the sheer material.

"Matilda, you look....wow," Padma complimented happily.

Cho took Matilda by the hand and led her to the full-sized mirror that she had on the other side of the dorm. Looking into it she could see what Padma was saying. She had never seen herself look like this. She hardly ever wore makeup, and when she did it was the bare minimum, and her hair was either left hanging on her shoulders, in a braid, or tied into a ponytail. Padma and Cho and each done an excellent job in helping her get ready.

Matilda adjusted the strong on her shoulder and watched as the soft maroon material ran down her body and into the slightly puffed skirt. Her lips twitched into another smile. She couldn't help but to be excited now. She could see why Cho and Padma had been begging her for weeks now to go to the ball. She could see why they were so excited to go to the ball.

And Matilda was excited for Ron to see her.

The three girls walked themselves down to the Great Hall just as the clock struck eight that evening. They each held onto one another as to not fall in her their heels. Matilda had no issue in walking in the pair of heels that she had her mum send to her. She had spotted them in a clothing store over summer and didn't buy them because they were much too elegant and she wasn't sure she'd ever get the chance to wear them. But her mum, after hearing that Matilda had changed her mind about going to the ball, quickly went out and bout the black heels with the golden butterfly wings attached.

Just as the three of them were about to descend the staircase, leading into the ballroom, Matilda's name had been called from behind. Looking back and spotting Hermione, Matilda told her roommates to go on without her and that she'd be sure to catch up with them later.

"Hermione," smiled Matilda.

She approached her friend who seemed almost unrecognizable. Hermione had done something with her hair; it was no longer bushy, but sleek and shiny, and twisted up into an elegant knot at the back of her head. She was wearing robes made of a floaty, periwinkle-blue material, and she was holding herself differently, somehow – or maybe it was merely the absence of the twenty or so books she usually had slung over her back. She was also smiling – rather nervously.

"You're gorgeous," she complimented, unable to find any other words.

Hermione smiled sheepishly, blushing under her rosy painted cheeks, "Thank you. And you look stunning as well."

"Yes well," laughed Matilda. "I did what I could on such short notice."

"I'm afraid to go in there," Hermione confessed.

Hermione's smile fell as she looked past Matilda and into the crowded room of students dressed to their absolute best. Matilda suddenly and surprisingly took Hermione's hand into her own and gave her a stern but comforting look.

"And why is that? You look absolutely stunning, Hermione," she told her, but the nerves were still detectable in Hermione's trembling hand. "How about we walk in together?"

Hermione's eyes widened but she was quick to agree.

"Really?"

"I wouldn't ask if I didn't want to, Hermione."

Hermione gave Matilda a thankful smile as she let out a small breath of relief. Matilda kept ahold of Hermione's hand as the two of them entered the Great Hall. Their presence turning many heads. Though Matilda was sure that the attention was less for her and more for Hermione.

The two of them managed to make it to the bottom of the stairs and Matilda urged Hermione to ignore the stares and whispers from those they passed by. Most of them weren't too bad – everyone was just so stunned. But she did earn unapproving looks from Pansy Parkinson and Parvati Patil whose arm was wrapped around Harry's.

"I'm going to go find Ron," Matilda leaned into Hermione to whisper.

Hermione nodded, gulping.

"You'll be fine, Hermione, I swear it," Matilda encouraged.

"Thank you," said Hermione for what felt like the thousandth time this evening.

"Krum is very lucky to have you on his arm tonight,"

And with that Matilda turned on her heel to go in search of her own date.

Matilda, after searching for just a few minutes found Ron standing near the punch table beside Dean and Seamus. He hadn't noticed her yet and his expression was twisted into a glum frown as he picked at the frills on his dress robes. They were not pretty in the slightest and did nothing to flatter him, but his robes were the least of Matilda's worries.

Dean was the first to notice Matilda approaching them and with wide eyes, he elbowed Ron in the ribs to get his attention. Ron's head snapped upward and just as he went to argue with Dean his eyes caught Matilda approaching him.

"Matilda... y–you showed up," he said sounding surprised.

"Yes, sorry I'm a bit late," she smiled. "There was a damsel needing my help in the hall."

Ron furrowed his eyebrows in confusion but decided to not further that topic. And while looking at Matilda in her flowing gown and with her curled hair pinned up, he became flustered, thinking what to say to her next.

"You look nice tonight, Ron," Matilda lied through her teeth.

She didn't mean it, but she knew he needed to hear it.

"Yeah right," Ron scoffed. "I look like my Great Aunt Tessie."

Matilda couldn't help the laugh that escaped from her lips.

"And you – well you look absolutely gorgeous tonight," he began to rant. "You're absolutely beautiful and me – well I'm just... I'm me I suppose."

A soft smile lay on Matilda's lips after Ron stopped talking. She didn't care what he was going to show up wearing tonight. She didn't say yes to him in hopes that she'd have the best-dressed date. She agreed to go to the ball with Ron, and here he was, that's all she could ask for.

"Ron, I said yes to go with you... not your robes," she told him softly. "I don't care what you're wearing. And besides, those robes, no one here could pull them off the way you're managing to do so right now."

Ron sighed but his glum expression had turned up into a smile as he looked to Matilda. Neither of them could explain it. The attraction that was there between the two of them. Perhaps though it wasn't meant to be explained. And that's what scared Matilda the most. Unexplainable things didn't exist to her – or at least they didn't until Ron.

Once everyone else was settled in the Hall, Professor McGonagall told the champions and their partners to get in line in pairs and follow her. They did so, and everyone in the Great Hall applauded as they entered and started walking up towards a large round table at the top of the Hall, where the judges were sitting.

The walls of the Hall had all been covered in sparkling silver frost, with hundreds of garlands of mistletoe and ivy crossing the starry black ceiling. The house tables had vanished; instead, there were about a hundred smaller, lantern-lit ones, each seating about a dozen people.

Matilda watched amused as Harry concentrated on his feet, careful not to trip. Parvati seemed to be enjoying herself; she was beaming around at everybody, steering Harry quite forcefully, as if he was a show dog that she was putting through its paces. Matilda beamed happily, pointing out Hermione to Ron as she passed by them. He was quite surprised as his eyes widened, watching her walk arm-in-arm with his idol

"Hermione and Krum?" Ron turned to Matilda with a disbelieving look. "I can't believe it."

"I know," Matilda smiled. "That's why she wouldn't tell who she was going with. She knew you'd never believe her."

Glancing over to Dumbledore, Matilda watched as he smiled happily as the champions approached the top table but Karkaroff wore a sour expression as he watched Krum and Hermione draw nearer. Ludo Bagman, tonight in robes of bright purple with large yellow stars, was clapping as enthusiastically as any of the students; and Madame Maxime, who had changed her usual uniform of black satin for a flowing gown of lavender silk, was applauding them politely. But Mr. Crouch, Matilda suddenly realized, was not there. The fifth seat at the table was occupied by Percy Weasley.

When the champions and their partners reached the table, Percy drew out the empty chair beside him, staring pointedly at Harry. Matilda narrowed her eyes at the smug look upon Percy's face.

"What's Percy doing here?" Matilda asked turning to Ron.

Ron shrugged, "Got a promotion, I think. Was sent here on Mr. Crouch's behalf."

There was no food as yet on the glittering golden plates, but small menus lying in front of each of them. Matilda picked hers up quite confused as they've never had this done before. There were no waiters around to take their order either. Dumbledore, however, looked carefully down his own menu, then said very clearly to his plate, "Pork chops!"

And pork chops appeared. Getting the idea the rest of the students placed their orders as well.

When all the food had been consumed, Dumbledore stood up and asked the students to do the same. Then, at a wave of his wand, the tables zoomed back along the walls, leaving the floor clear, and then he conjured a raised platform into existence along the right-hand wall. A set of drums, several guitars, a lute, a cello, and some bagpipes were set upon it.

The Weird Sisters now trooped up onto the stage to wildly enthusiastic applause; they were all extremely hairy and dressed in black robes that had been artfully ripped and torn. They picked up their instruments and prepared to start the song for the Champions' Dance.

Matilda and Ron laughed as Harry tripped over his dress robes while being pulled by Parvati. The Weird Sisters struck up a slow, mournful tune and the Champions made their way onto the brightly lit dance floor with their dates.

"Bet Harry chokes halfway through..."

Fred had come up behind Ron and Matilda, holding his date's. Angelina Johnson, hand. George followed close behind with his own date. He had asked Mandy Brocklehurst a Ravenclaw just a year above Matilda. She was good friends with Cho Chang and Claire Morgenstern and had said yes to George after finding out her ex-boyfriend Roger Davies was going with Fleur. George seemed happy enough to be going with Mandy, even knowing he's likely just a rebound for her.

Matilda rolled her eyes as she turned her attention back to the dance floor. She refrained from saying anything to Fred, knowing he was only kidding, but if it had been anyone else to say anything about Harry in front of her, she would have hexed them without a second thought.

"Matilda," George whistled. "You look amazing. What on earth are you doing here with the like of my brother."

"George..." Ron groaned.

The dance wasn't nearly as bad as it could have been. Though Parvati was clearly leading and pulling Harry along. He made sure to keep his eyes fixed over the heads of the watchful eyes, not wishing to meet the gaze of anyone he knew. It wasn't long though that other students began to walk onto the dance floor so that the champions were no longer the center of attention. Neville and Ginny were dancing nearby – Matilda could see Ginny wince frequently as Neville trodded on her feet – and Dumbledore was waltzing with Madame Maxime.

"Come on,"

Matilda turned suddenly, offering her hand to Ron. He looked down at her hand as though it was something alien, and his eyebrows knitted together in confusion.

"What?" He asked, his gaze lifting up to meet her eyes.

"We're dancing," she informed him.

He looked at her blue eyes, waiting for a hint of amusement – something to tell him she was joking with him. But her eyes iced eyes were completely serious. Ron gulped but took Matilda's hand anyway. As she led him onto the crowded dance floor she could hear Fred and George teasing Ron from afar.

"Have you danced before?" Matilda asked.

Ron shook his head, his nerves becoming more and more visible, "No. Not unless dancing with my Grammy at her birthday last year counts."

Matilda nodded, "Okay, so I'll lead."

With ease, Matilda placed one of Ron's hands on her waist as she put her free hand on his shoulder. Taking notice of the space he had put in between the two of them she stepped closer to him, closing the gap. Before taking the first step she placed a finger under Ron's chin and lifted his gaze to meet hers.

"Just follow my lead," she encouraged him.

Ron nodded and followed each of her steps. He was much better than Matilda had expected. Only having stepped on her toes a few times. She would wince and he would apologize about four or five times, asking her if she wanted to stop. Matilda would only shake her head and show him the correct way to move.

"I didn't know you danced," said Ron.

"Not many people do," she told him. "There's a studio near my mum's house. I started taking lessons years ago. Guess I was quite good at it."

"Doesn't surprise me," Ron chuckled. "Seems that you're good at everything."

Matilda smiled and looked down as she felt her cheeks begin to heat up, "Not everything. I was never good at making friends. And I still struggle with contact and relating to people emotionally."

Ron shrugged, "I think you're doing excellent."

"Thank you."

Matilda heard the final, quavering note from the bagpipe. The Weird Sisters stopped playing, applause filled the hall once more, and Matilda pulled away from Ron. "Let's go see Harry."

Keeping ahold of Ron's hand she pulled him from the dance floor and to a table where Parvati and Harry and sat down. Parvati didn't seem too happy to have been away from all the fun, but Harry's gaze and mind were wondering elsewhere.

"Harry!"

Matilda approached him happily and he quickly stood to pull her into a warm hug. He looked incredibly handsome in his black and white dress robes. Much more suited for the occasion than Ron.

"Tilly, you look beautiful," he told her, pulling away from the hug.

"You don't look so bad yourself, Harry," she praised him. "Who knew you could clean up so well?"

Harry laughed as she looked down at his dress robes sheepishly. Someone else had joined their table but walked right past Harry and toward Parvati, Matilda watched from over Harry's shoulder as he began to talk to Ron. Parvati was grinning from ear to ear as the boy from Beauxbatons whispered something in her ear.

Parvati nodded to the mystery boy and stood from her chair, tapping Harry on the shoulder, trying to get his attention.

"Harry, would you mind?"

Harry, who had zoned out while talking to his friends and forgetting that he had left her sitting at the table alone turned around, eyebrows furrowed in confusion.

"What?"

"Oh, never mind," snapped Parvati, and she went off with the boy from Beauxbatons.

Matilda laughed along with Ron as she watched Harry's date run off with someone else, seeming as though she had no plans on returning to him that evening. While watching Parvati approach her sister and Bentley Morgenstern, Matilda's gaze ran over the sea of students, all smiling and dancing, some crowding around the punch table. All seemed happy except for one.

A familiar blonde stormed away from the crowd. Her cheeks flushed with anger as she ran toward the door. Matilda glanced back to where she left her date standing alone and angry. He was running a hand through his platinum blonde hair, debating if he should run after her or not. When he turned the opposite direction, Matilda found that it wasn't likely he'd be chasing after her.

She began debating with herself on if she should chase after the girl, she could barely consider a friend. But, suddenly becoming empathetic, Matilda let out a defeated sigh.

"Ron, stay with Harry," she said, interrupting the two conversing boys. "I've got to go to the bathroom."

Ron nodded and he and Harry took a seat at the table deep in conversation.

Matilda started for the large double doors following after the ever-so-dramatic Daisy Morgenstern. She followed her down the Great Hall, listening to the sound of her heels hitting the concrete floor. But Matilda could only run as fast as her short legs would carry her. And the heels only proved to make things even more difficult when she got to the rounded staircase.

Knowing that descending the staircase leading into the dungeons was likely to be a safety hazard, Matilda stopped before continuing and pulled the heels from her feet. She did not wish to be the student to be known for taking a tumble down the steps in a ball gown. The silhouette of a girl became visible as Matilda neared the bottoms of the stairs, and from where she stood, she watched as the girl tore her shoes off of her feet and chucked them even further down the staircase.

"You've got quite an arm on you," said Matilda stopping only a few steps above the girl crying to herself. "Ever thought about sports instead of books?"

Daisy rushed to wipe her tears away, tensing up from the unexpected presence, "Oh, hey there... No," she tried to laugh, "Never thought much on sports."

"Me neither... Ugh," Matilda gave a tired sigh as she descended the stairs behind Daisy, flinging her heels around by the straps in hand. "You'll have to give me a moment to catch my breath."

Daisy looked up at Matilda skeptically, "What are you doing here, Tilly?"

"Well, you know," she shrugged, sitting down on the steps next to Daisy and smoothing out the silky material of her dress around her legs. "Got to help a damsel in distress every now and then."

Daisy forced another soft laugh, glancing away to avoid letting Matilda see her reddened and swollen eyes, even though Matilda had already noticed, "Ron know your gone?"

"He'll figure it out," Matilda shrugged, looking at Daisy with raised eyebrows. "I'm too interested in what made you leave Prima-Donna in the middle of the dance floor looking like an idiot."

The ends of Daisy's lips tugged upward at the nickname, "He was being an ass."

"Yes, well, that's just his personality isn't it?"

Daisy sighed, "He's... He's just embarrassing at times."

"I would have been embarrassed to have shown up with him," Matilda shrugged nonchalantly. "That's the difference between you and me. I figured by now, you'd know better. Wherever Malfoy goes, his episodes follow."

Daisy nodded, agreeing with Matilda, "Yeah. Dumb of me to think that I could get one night without him causing a scene..."

Matilda became curious, leaning forwards slightly, "Why do you let him do it?"

A hint of disbelief was clear in Matilda's voice, unbeknownst as to why the blonde harbored obvious growing feelings for Malfoy.

"I don't know," Daisy shrugged, resting her chin against her knees as she stared down the corridor. "Maybe I think one day he'll grow up or that at some point I'll get through to him..."

Matilda scoffed, "Good luck with either of those..."

"Yeah." It was clear that Daisy did not feel like putting up much of a fight defending Draco like she usually would to anyone else, she knew that with Matilda there was no point, he had already made his impression on her. "I don't think all the luck in the world could help me out."

Daisy turned back to look at Matilda, a soft smile tugging at the ends of her lips, "I see lucks been on your side though... You and Ron seemed to be enjoying yourselves up there."

Matilda chuckled, "Yes, well, his dancing could use some work, but other than that it's been a good night."

"You two are good with each other."

Matilda's cheeks began to heat up once more and she hoped the blush Cho had brushed onto her cheeks hid the pink glow creeping onto her cheeks, "Is that so?"

"Just an observation," Daisy shrugged. "At least someone's nights going better than mine."

"You said it, not me."

With a scoff, Daisy looked back down the empty hallway, "Maybe I should lay off the romance novels."

"Maybe you just shouldn't take them to heart," Matilda told her, shrugging. "You can still enjoy your books, just without using them as a how-to-manual."

"You're right..."

"I know that," Matilda's blunt words made Daisy laugh to herself. "Honestly, Daisy, I believe you could do so much better than what you are."

Daisy pondered over Matilda's words, nodding slightly to herself.

Curiously, she glanced back at Matilda, "Why do you care, Matilda?"

"He's vile!" Matilda defended. "And you're not! Why let competent potential go to waste?"

"Thanks," Daisy smiled softly, looking down at her folded hands in her lap.

But both girls knew that in the morning, Daisy would continue tugging at Draco's sleeve and scolding him in hopes of making a change in his arrogant ways.

Matilda groaned in annoyance, looking at the blonde, almost feeling pity for her, "You're too dedicated to his cause aren't you, Morgenstern?"

"I'm fourteen years in, Tilly," she frowned.

"And it's time for a change, Cinderella," Matilda told her. "Because I have a Champion that's basically depending on me for survival at this rate and that takes up most of my time these days. Can't solve everyone's problems this year."

Daisy snickered, "Thanks for the reminder."

"Though, to solve everyone's problem, I could make Malfoy disappear. That would solve so many things and wouldn't take a second," Matilda suggested. "Couldn't bring him back yet, but then again, is that such a bad thing?"

"Tilly." Daisy partially scolded.

"I'm still learning on how to bring things back," she explained. "I still need to bring my cat back..."

"You made your cat disappear?" Daisy asked.

"I was practicing!" Matilda defended. "Though it wasn't actually mine, it was my mum's. Kind of a bratty thing anyway..."

Daisy shook her head, teasing, "Thought we aren't allowed to use magic outside of Hogwarts?"

"Look at you being all punctual," Matilda tucked a piece of hair behind her ear. "It's not like no one else does it anyway."

The sound of someone clearing their throat gained both girls' attention. Matilda's face scrunched up in disgust when she noticed Malfoy walking down the stairs towards them. He was eyeing the pair skeptically, and Daisy rolled her eyes at his distrusting expression.

"Ew," Matilda said, not bothering to suppress the comment.

Draco scoffed, "Good evening to you too, Winters."

"Can't say I reciprocate the gesture, Malfoy," she said, standing up from her seat. "I assume this is my cue to exit."

But before leaving, Matilda stopped and she leaned into Daisy so that she could hear the soft whisper of her voice, "It's important to know that you can't force change in someone who sees no problem in their actions."

Draco glared at the shorter girl while Daisy nodded at Matilda's words and bid her goodbye, thanking her for the company. Matilda, looking over her shoulder, returned the cold stare as she passed by him while climbing the stairs, sneering the word 'idiot' just low enough that only Draco could hear her.

Draco stood before Daisy at the bottom of the stairs, looking down at her with raised eyebrows, "Why was she here?"

"She can still hear you!" Matilda sing-songed, having just hit the top stairwell before rounding the corner out of sight. "And she has a name!"

Matilda stopped at the rounded corner steading herself up against the wall so that she could put her shoes back on. While fastening the expensive heels to her ankle, she could still hear Draco and Daisy's conversation from the bottom of the stairwell.

"I don't want excuses Draco! I shouldn't have expected you to be on your best behavior tonight."

Matilda rolled her eyes. She was already coming up with excuses for Malfoy.

"You talk as if I'm a child!"

Matilda had to keep herself from laughing at Draco's words.

"Then don't act like one! I can't believe I let you charm me into this."

Matilda nodded. Impressed with Daisy's stern tone and loud voice. This is what Malfoy needed to be hearing from her. She couldn't baby him forever.

"Look, I'm sorry."

Matilda's eyes widened so much that she feared they might pop from their sockets. She choked back a cough and rounded the corner, back to the stairwell just to be sure she heard the words that came from Malfoy's mouth correctly.

"Did he just apologize?!" Matilda's voice was shrill and full of disbelief as her head popped back into the doorframe of the stairwell.

"Don't you have a date to run back to?" Draco sneered in annoyance.

"Why don't you–" Matilda went to retort angrily, but sudden realization washed over her. "Oh, my – Ron!"

With that, the Ravenclaw ran off to find Ron who turned out to be very confused as to where she had run off to for so long. Lying, Matilda told him there was an excruciatingly long line in the girl's room, and he easily believed her. Relieved Matilda led him back out onto the dance floor and not worrying about what they looked like, began to dance with him like an idiot to the upbeat music.

They took turns talking to their friends on the dance floor. Dean seemed to be having a good time with Estella, the only Morgenstern to be sorted into Gryffindor, and even Ginny seemed too happy to have gone with Neville, which Matilda thought was adorable. Padma at one point had pulled Matilda away from Ron and to her and a large group of girls. She stayed for a few dances before finding herself back at the punch bowl, watching in complete amusement as Ron danced with a very confused and uncomfortable Fleur, thanks to the workings of Hermione.

"Having fun?"

Hary questioned, coming up beside her and getting him a glass of the pink liquid.

Matilda nodded, before noticing the sullen expression Harry wore, "Why aren't you out there with everyone?"

Harry shrugged, "Not my thing, I guess."

Matilda put her nearly empty cup down on the table and took Harry's and done the same before grabbing his hand and pulling him along with her, "The night is almost over and I'm not going to allow you leave without at least one decent dance."

Harry protested but Matilda wasn't hearing any of it. Ron was dancing with Fleur and so she was taking the moment to share with Harry. She wished he would have asked someone whom he would have enjoyed his time with. Someone like Hermione or Ginny... maybe Cho, who he seemed to the most upset about tonight.

"I'm sorry you aren't with Cho," said Matilda, as she lay her head on Harry's shoulder, swaying to the soft music. "I know that's who wanted to be here with tonight."

"Doesn't matter," Harry sighed into her ear. "I'm feeling better already dancing with you."

Matilda smiled, giving Harry's hand a comforting squeeze, and much quicker than he thought, Harry began to feel a little better at the moment spent with Matilda.

Ron found his way back over to the table when the song slowed to a stop. He didn't seem at all upset over the dance that Matilda and Harry had just shared. In fact, he seemed to still be in too much of a daze to have even noticed the dance.

"Vare is Herm-own-ninny?" said a voice.

Krum had just arrived at their table clutching two Butterbeers.

"I haven't seen her," said Matilda, looking up at the tall Durmstang boy.

Krum nodded, giving the three of them a friendly smile.

"Vell, if you see her, tell her I haff drinks," he said, and he walked off.

"Made friends with Viktor Krum, have you, Ron?"

Percy had bustled over, rubbing his hands together and looking extremely pompous. "Excellent! That's the whole point, you know – international magical co-operation!"

To Matilda's annoyance, Percy promptly took Parvati's vacated seat. The top table was now empty; Professor Dumbledore was dancing with Professor Sprout; Ludo Bagman, with Professor McGonagall; Madame Maxime and Hagrid were cutting a wide path around the dance floor as they waltzed through the students and Karkaroff was nowhere to be seen. When the next song ended, everybody applauded once more, and Matilda saw Ludo Bagman kiss Professor McGonagall's hand and make his way back through the crowds, at which point Fred and George accosted him.

"What do they think they're doing, annoying senior Ministry members?" Percy hissed, watching Fred and George suspiciously. "No respect..."

Ludo Bagman shook off Fred and George fairly quickly, however, and, spotting Harry, waved and came over to their table.

"I hope my brothers weren't bothering you, Mr. Bagman?" said Percy at once.

"What? Oh, not at all, not at all!" said Bagman. "No, they were just telling me a bit more about those fake wands of theirs. Wondering if I could advise them on the marketing. I've promised to put them in touch with a couple of contacts of mine at Zonko's Joke Shop..."

Percy didn't look happy about this at all. Apparently, Fred and George's plans had grown even more ambitious lately, if they were hoping to sell to the public.

Bagman opened his mouth to ask Harry something, but Percy diverted him. "How do you feel the Tournament's going, Mr. Bagman? Our department's quite satisfied – the hitch with the Goblet of Fire" – he glanced at Harry – "was a little unfortunate, of course, but it seems to have gone very smoothly since, don't you think?"

"Oh, yes," Bagman said cheerfully, "it's all been enormous fun. How's old Barty doing? Shame he couldn't come."

"Oh, I'm sure Mr. Crouch will be up and about in no time," said Percy importantly, "but in the meantime, I'm more than willing to take up the slack. Of course, it's not all attending balls –" he laughed airily – "oh, no, I've had to deal with all sorts of things that have cropped up in his absence – you heard Ali Bashir was caught smuggling a consignment of flying carpets into the country? And then we've been trying to persuade the Transylvanians to sign the International Ban on Duelling, I've got a meeting with their Head of Magical Co-operation in the new year –"

"Let's get outta here," Ron muttered to Harry and Matilda, "Get away from Percy..."

Pretending they wanted more drinks, Harry, Matilda, and Ron left the table, edged around the dance floor, and slipped out into the Entrance Hall. The front doors stood open, and the fluttering fairy lights in the rose garden winked and twinkled as they went down the front steps, where they found themselves surrounded by bushes, winding ornamental paths, and large stone statues. Matilda could hear splashing water, which sounded like a fountain. Here and there, people were sitting on carved benches. Her, Harry, and Ron set off along one of the winding paths through the rose bushes, but they had gone only a short way when they heard an unpleasantly familiar voice.

"... don't see what there is to fuss about, Igor."

"Severus, you cannot pretend this isn't happening!" Karkaroff's voice sounded anxious and hushed, as though keen not to be overheard. "It's been getting clearer and clearer for months, I am becoming seriously concerned, I can't deny it –"

"Then flee," said Snape's voice curtly. "Flee, I will make your excuses. I, however, am remaining at Hogwarts."

Snape and Karkaroff came around the corner. Snape had his wand out, and was blasting rose bushes apart, his expression most ill-natured. Squeals issued from many of the bushes, and dark shapes emerged from them.

"Ten points from Hufflepuff, Fawcett!" Snape snarled, as a girl ran past him. "And ten points from Ravenclaw, too, Stebbins!" as a boy went rushing after her. "And what are the three of you doing?" he added, catching sight of Harry and Ron on the path ahead. Karkaroff, Matilda saw, looked slightly discomposed to see them standing there. His hand went nervously to his goatee, and he began winding it around his finger again.

"We're walking," Ron told Snape shortly. "Not against the law, is it?"

A quick laugh escaped from Matilda's lips before she quickly closed her lips tight and rested her forehead on the ball of Ron's shoulder so to hide the growing smirk on her face.

"Keep walking, then!" Snape snarled, and he brushed past them, his long black cloak billowing out behind him. Karkaroff hurried away after Snape. Harry, Matilda, and Ron continued down the path.

"What's got Karkaroff all worried?" Ron muttered.

"And since when have he and Snape been on first-name terms?" said Harry slowly.

Matilda sighed, sounding tired and annoyed, "This is something we'll probably have to worry about, isn't is?"

The two boys nodded.

They had reached a large stone reindeer now, over which they could see the sparkling jets of a tall fountain. The shadowy outlines of two enormous people were visible on a stone bench, watching the water in the moonlight. And then they heard Hagrid speak.

"Momen' I saw yeh, I knew," he was saying, in an oddly husky voice.

The three of them froze. This didn't sound like the sort of scene they ought to walk in on, somehow... Matilda looked around, back up the path, and saw Fleur Delacour and Roger Davies standing half-concealed in a rose bush nearby. She tapped Ron and Harry on their shoulders and jerked his head towards them, meaning that they could easily sneak off that way without being noticed but Ron, eyes widening in horror at the sight of Fleur, shook his head vigorously, and pulled Harry and Matilda deeper into the shadows behind the reindeer.

"What did you know, 'Agrid?" said Madame Maxime, a distinct purr in her low voice.

Matilda surpressed a gag. She definitely didn't want to listen to this; she knew Hagrid would hate to be overheard in a situation like this – if it had been possible she would have put his fingers in his ears and hummed loudly, but that wasn't really an option. Instead she tried to interest herself in a beetle crawling along the stone reindeer's back, but the beetle just wasn't interesting enough to block out Hagrid's next words.

"I jus' knew... knew you were like me... was it yer mother or yer father?"

"I – I don't know what you mean, 'Agrid..."

"It was my mother," said Hagrid quietly. "She was one o' the las' ones in Britain. 'Course, I can' remember her too well... she left, see. When I was abou' three. She wasn' really the maternal sort. Well... it's not in their natures, is it? Dunno what happened to her... might be dead fer all I know..."

Madame Maxime didn't say anything. And Matilda, in spite of herself, took her eyes off the beetle, and looked over the top of the reindeer's antlers, listening... she had never heard Hagrid talk about his childhood before. And by glancing at Harry's curious expression, neither has he.

"Me dad was broken-hearted when she wen'. Tiny little bloke, my dad was. By the time I was six I could lift him up an' put him on top o' the dresser if he annoyed me. Used ter make him laugh..." Hagrid's deep voice broke. Madame Maxime was listening, motionless, apparently staring at the silvery fountain. "Dad raised me... but he died, o' course, jus' after I started school. Sorta had ter make me own way after that. Dumbledore was a real help, mind. Very kind ter me, he was..."

Hagrid pulled out a large, spotted silk handkerchief and blew his nose heavily. "So... anyway... enough abou' me. What about you? Which side you got it on?"

But Madame Maxime had suddenly got to her feet.

"It is chilly," she said – but whatever the weather was doing, it was nowhere near as cold as her voice. "I think I will go in now."

"Eh?" said Hagrid blankly. "No, don' go! I've – I've never met another one before!"

"Anuzzer what, precisely?" said Madame Maxime, her tone icy.

Matilda could have told Hagrid it was best not to answer; she stood there in the shadows, gritting her teeth, hoping against hope he wouldn't – but it was no good.

"Another half-giant, o' course!" said Hagrid.

"'Ow dare you!" shrieked Madame Maxime. Her voice exploded through the peaceful night air like a foghorn; behind her, Matilda heard Fleur and Roger fall out of their rose bush. "I 'ave nevair been more insulted in my life! 'Alf-giant? Moi? I 'ave – I 'ave big bones!"

She stormed away; great multi-colored swarms of fairies rose into the air as she passed, angrily pushing aside bushes. Hagrid was still sitting on the bench, staring after her. It was much too dark to make out his expression. Then, after about a minute, he stood up and strode away, not back to the castle, but off out into the dark grounds in the direction of his cabin.

"C'mon," Harry said, very quietly to Ron and Matilda. "Let's go..."

But neither of them moved.

"What's up?" said Harry, looking at them.

Ron looked around at Harry, his expression very serious indeed.

"Did you know?" he whispered. "About Hagrid being half-giant?"

Matilda scoffed, "Quite self-explanatory isn't it?"

"I didn't know," Harry confessed, making Matilda roll her eyes and how naive he could be. "So what?"

"I'll explain inside," said Ron quietly. "C'mon..."

Fleur and Roger Davies had disappeared, probably into a more private clump of bushes. Matilda, Harry, and Ron returned to the Great Hall. Hermione was once more dancing with Krum. Ron led Harry and Matilda at a table far removed from the dance floor.

"So?" Harry prompted Ron. "What's the problem with giants?"

"Well, they're... they're..." Ron struggled for words, "not very nice," he finished lamely.

Matilda rolled her eyes, disagreeing with Ron, "That's nothing but a stereotype."

"There's nothing wrong with Hagrid," Harry defended.

"I know there isn't, but... blimey, no wonder he keeps it quiet," Ron said, shaking his head. "I always thought he'd got in the way of a bad Engorgement Charm when he was a kid or something. Didn't like to mention it..."

"But what's it matter if his mother was a giantess?" said Harry.

"People tend to believe stereotypes," Matilda shrugged sadly. "People's idiotic beliefs led to Remus having to be let go last year."

"No one who knows Hagrid will care, 'cos they'll know he's not dangerous," said Ron, slowly. "But... Harry, they're just vicious, giants. It's like Hagrid said, it's in their natures, they're like trolls... they just like killing, everyone knows that. There aren't any left in Britain now, though."

"What happened to them?"

"The species was dying out anyway, and then loads got themselves killed by Aurors. They're supposed to be giants abroad, though... they hide out in mountains mostly..."

Matilda explained to Harry, Ron nodding at her words.

"I don't know who Maxime thinks she's kidding," Harry said, watching Madame Maxime sitting alone at the judges' table, looking very somber. "If Hagrid's half-giant, she definitely is. Big bones... the only thing that's got bigger bones than her is a dinosaur."

Matilda stopped their discussion on giants, not wanting anyone to pass by them on their way out and hear something about Hagrid that they shouldn't. And since the ball would be over soon she forced Ron back out of his seat and onto the dance floor, but not without telling Harry that he should pluck up some courage and ask someone to dance.

When the Weird Sisters finished playing at midnight, everyone gave them a last, loud round of applause, and started to wend their way into the Entrance Hall. Many people were expressing the wish that the ball could have gone on longer, but Matilda was perfectly happy to be going to bed. They met back up with Harry at their table so that they could walk out together.

Out in the Entrance Hall, Matilda, Harry, and Ron saw Hermione saying goodnight to Krum before he went back to the Durmstrang ship. She gave the three of them a soft but tired smile, and made her way up the staircase. The three of them followed her, but halfway up the marble staircase, someone began calling Harry's name.

"Hey – Harry!"

It was Cedric Diggory. Harper happily standing by his side.

"Yeah?" said Harry cooly, as Cedric ran up the stairs towards him.

Cedric looked as though he didn't want to say whatever it was in front of Ron. Matilda glanced back as he leaned against the railing looking bored. Quickly, she promised to meet with him in the morning, so that he'd walk away and she and Harry could hear what Cedric had to say. Though, when he turned around a wave of guilt crashed over her.

"Wait!"

Matilda climbed the few stairs separating the two of them and pulled Ron into a warm hug, kissing his cheeks as the two of them began to part.

"I had a wonderful time with you tonight," she assured him.

Ron looked down at his feet, shuffling them nervously, when he raised his eyes to meet hers, Matilda was able to see the redness taking over his cheeks, "Goodnight, Tilly."

Matilda grinned, satisfied with how that had gone, and turned back around to stand next to Harry.

"Alright," Matilda nodded. "Spit it out then."

"Listen..." Cedric lowered his voice. "I owe you one for telling me about the dragons. You know that golden egg? Does yours wail when you open it?"

"Yeah," said Harry.

"Well... take a bath, OK?"

Matilda's eyebrows furrowed in confusion, "Is this a joke? Because if it is I won't hesitate to–"

"– Tilly!" Harper scolded, quick to stop the threat that was bound to come from her younger sister. "You can trust him."

"Take a bath, and – er – take the egg with you, and – er – just mull things over in the hot water. It'll help you think... trust me."

Harry and Matilda stared at him.

"Tell you what," Cedric said, "use the Prefects' bathroom. Fourth door to the left of that statue of Boris the Bewildered on the fifth floor. Password's Pine-fresh. Gotta go... it's been a long night."

He grinned at Harry and Matilda again and turned to walk down the stairs, his arm wrapped tightly around Harper's waist.

"Tilly,"

Harper had stopped Cedric once again before they could get far. Matilda glanced down at her sister.

"You looked beautiful tonight," she smiled.

Matilda's eyebrows raised from the shock, she hadn't expected such nice words come from her sister to her, the two of them were always fighting, but it felt nice, "Thank you. And so did you – you looked lovely."

It was true. The velvet gown that flowed like a sea of purple on her older sister. The diagnol neckline and exposed arms of the dress showes all the muscles that she had gained from her years spent on the Hufflepuff Quidditch team, though showed the daintyness of her exposed chest. Her hair had laid in soft curls, and the dark eyeshadow made her hazel eyes shine.

"C'mon," Harry tugged at Matilda's wrist. "I'll walk you back to your tower."

Matilda nodded and followed beside Harry as they climbed onto the seventh floor and stopped outside of the large, rounded wooden door, separating them from the Ravenclaw Common room.

"So, a bath?"

Harry laughed at how ridiculous the words sounded coming from Matilda. Just as ridiculous when Cedric suggested it.

"I suppose so," he said, shrugging. "You going to be there?"

"In the bath?" Matilda questioned, her eyes going wide. "Harry, I like you and all but–"

"No!" said Harry quickly. "I mean, there to help..."

Matilda nodded, relaxing a little more now that she knows Harry didn't want her to join him in the bath, "I did promise I'd get you out alive, didn't I?"

Harry nodded, "You did, yes."

"I tend to keep my promises, Harry."

The two of them said their goodnights and Matilda made her way to her room where Padma already was. She was still extremely giddy but calm enough to help Matilda out of her gown. As soon as she climbed into her bed and under the soft covers, Matilda could feel her eyelids becoming heavy, and she smiled, happy that she had changed her mind. She never would have thought Ron would have been the perfect date.

And suddenly she found herself falling asleep thinking about the next time she'll see the red-headed boy, and a smile appeared on her face once more before she fell into a deep sleep.  

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VISUALS

Luna's gift to Matilda

Matilda's Christmas day look

Matilda's Yule Ball look

Harper's Yule Ball look

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AN:// finally, an update. Sorry I made you all wait for so long.

Hope you enjoy. Comment your thoughts.

xoxo