Chapter 5
As the weeks unfolded, Pansy faced her new reality. Cut off from her family’s support, she had to navigate the challenges of everyday life at Hogwarts. Though difficult, it brought her closer to Harry, who was unwavering in his support. Harry helped her find ways to make ends meet. They studied together, and he introduced her to friends who were willing to accept her for who she had become. It was a hard adjustment; she felt the weight of judgment from many of her peers, but slowly, some began to see the courage it took for her to stand against her family's expectations. They saw it as proof of her dedication to Harry and his values.
One evening, as they sat in the common room with Hermione and Ron—who had finally started to soften toward Pansy—Harry spoke up. “We need to plan something for Pansy. A way to show everyone that she’s not the same person they think she is.” “What do you have in mind?” Hermione asked, her curiosity piqued.Pansy’s heart raced at the idea of being celebrated rather than judged. “I don’t want to make a fuss. I just want to move on.” “No, you deserve this,” Harry insisted. “Let’s organize a party! A welcome celebration to show everyone you’re one of us now.” Pansy’s cheeks flushed at the thought, but the warmth in Harry’s gaze made her nod. “Okay, let’s do it.”
As the date for the celebration approached, Pansy found herself filled with both excitement and dread. She had never been one to draw attention to herself, and the thought of being the center of focus made her anxious. But Harry was there every step of the way, encouraging her and reminding her of how far she had come.Finally, the day arrived. The Griffindore common room was transformed, adorned with colourful banners and shimmering fairy lights. As students filed in, Pansy felt a rush of anxiety. What if no one showed up? What if they mocked her instead of celebrating? But as the room filled, she was overwhelmed by warmth. Gryffindors, Ravenclaws, and even some Hufflepuffs came together, all eager to support her.
When it was time for the speeches, Harry stood up, his voice ringing out across the room. “Everyone, can I have your attention?”The room fell silent, and Pansy’s heart raced. She felt a mix of nervousness and pride as Harry continued. “We’re here tonight to celebrate Pansy. She’s shown incredible strength in choosing her own path, and we all have so much to learn from her journey.” A ripple of applause spread through the room, and Pansy felt warmth blooming in her chest. She looked around, seeing familiar faces, and even a few Slytherins who had come to show support. “I know it hasn’t been easy,” Harry continued, “but Pansy is more than just her house. She’s a friend, and she deserves to be recognized for her bravery.” As Harry finished, he stepped back, and the applause grew louder. Pansy felt tears prickling her eyes, overwhelmed by the acceptance surrounding her.
The evening unfolded with laughter and camaraderie. As students mingled, Pansy found herself sharing stories and laughter, feeling a sense of belonging she had never known. She had built her own family, one that embraced her for who she truly was. Later in the evening, as the festivities continued, Pansy found a quiet corner where Harry joined her. “What do you think?” he asked, his expression filled with hope.“It’s incredible,” she said, her voice thick with emotion. “I never thought I could feel this way, especially after everything with my family.” “You deserve all of this, Pansy,” Harry replied, taking her hand. “You fought for your happiness, and now you’re reaping the rewards.” Pansy smiled, her heart full. “I couldn’t have done it without you, Harry. You’ve been my rock.” “And I always will be,” he promised, leaning in to place a gentle kiss on her forehead. “We’re in this together.” As they stood side by side, watching their friends celebrate, Pansy realized how far she had come. She was no longer just the girl trapped by expectations. She was a person with her own dreams, her own desires, and a future she could shape on her own terms.