The Cannons

As Aurora stepped out of Oliver’s apartment, she took a deep breath, feeling a slight tug of sadness at leaving him behind but also excitement for the evening ahead.

The restaurant exuded warmth and sophistication, with dim lighting and soft music that set a relaxed tone. Arriving first, Aurora requested a table near the window and sat down, the glow from the candlelight catching the sparkle of the simple silver bracelet on her wrist. The server approached, and Aurora ordered a delicate-looking lavender cocktail, the floral scent mixing with the aromas of the food being prepared in the kitchen.

As she sipped her drink, she glanced over the menu, her thoughts briefly returning to Oliver and how much she missed him, even for a short while. She couldn’t help but wonder if the twins were driving him crazy or if they were all just lounging around watching TV.

Pansy arrived a few minutes later. She tossed her long, straight hair over her shoulder and slid into her seat across from Aurora. Not long after, Gianna walked in. As the girls settled into their dinner, their outfits reflected their distinct personalities, adding flair to the conversation. Aurora wore a flowy, deep green dress that complemented her complexion. Her hair, loosely pinned up, had a few strands escaping to frame her face, giving her an elegant yet relaxed vibe. Pansy, ever the fashion-forward one, sported a sleek black jumpsuit with gold accents, her sharp heels tapping lightly against the floor whenever she shifted in her seat. Her hair was pulled back into a high, polished ponytail, showing off her perfectly contoured cheekbones. Gianna, usually more understated, opted for a soft cream blouse tucked into tailored trousers, her look professional yet relaxed. Her curly hair was tied into a loose bun, wisps falling around her face, softening her look.

They exchanged greetings, their usual teasing banter already in full swing by the time they ordered appetizers—light and elegant choices like goat cheese-stuffed figs and arugula salads with pear slices. Gianna ordered a glass of wine while Pansy went for a strong martini.

Ever the professional, Gianna took a moment to ask about Oliver’s condition. "So, how’s Oliver doing? How’s the recovery coming along?"

Aurora’s face brightened with a smile. “He’s doing well. His bed rest is over tomorrow, and honestly, I’m most excited to be able to share a bed with him again.”

Pansy raised an eyebrow playfully. “How selfish of you, Aurora. To be looking forward to that when Oliver’s just getting back on his feet.”

Aurora laughed, shaking her head. “I suppose I am a bit selfish. But unselfishly, I did leave him in the capable hands of the twins, probably pranking everything in the apartment." She chuckled, imagining what chaos she might return to later.

Pansy’s lips curled into a knowing smile, and Gianna’s cheeks flushed a delicate pink. Aurora noticed and raised an eyebrow, her curiosity piqued.

“That is the ultimate sacrifice,” Pansy teased. "If I were you, I’d be expecting neon shampoo and a magically-locked wardrobe by the time you get back."

Aurora’s eyes sparkled with mischief. “They wouldn’t dare. If I had to walk around with neon hair, the twins wouldn’t be walking around at all.”

Gianna’s blush began to fade as she joined in on the playful banter. “Those twins can’t stay out of trouble to save their lives,” she said, shaking her head with a small, amused smile.

Pansy nudged Gianna gently, a teasing glint in her eye. “Oh, Gianna, you’re acting as if you wouldn’t love to be caught up in George’s trouble. I’ve seen the way you look at him.”

Gianna’s cheeks reddened once more, though she tried to maintain a casual demeanor. “It’s not like that. We just get along well. And besides, I think the twins are more interested in causing chaos than anything else.”

Aurora grinned, leaning in with a playful smirk. “Oh, don’t be coy, Gianna. George clearly adores you. You tick all his boxes—you're a girl, you value Quidditch, and you let him cause all the chaos he wants.”

Gianna looked at her friends with a mixture of curiosity and amusement. “You guys really think so?” she asked, genuinely interested in their perspective.

Pansy nodded, her eyes sparkling with certainty. “Oh, for sure. It’s pretty obvious. He can’t ever keep his eyes off of you. It’s like he’s constantly drawn to you.”

Aurora raised an eyebrow, a smile tugging at her lips. “Pans, I hate to be the one to break this to you, but Fred does the exact same thing to you. I’ve seen him sneak glances at you when he thinks no one’s watching.”

Pansy laughed softly, shaking her head. “We flirt a little, but it’s just what we do. He just likes to hear himself speak. It’s all in good fun.”

Gianna, who had been quietly listening, chimed in with a thoughtful expression. “Not to intervene, but when I first met Fred, I thought for sure you two were sleeping together. The way you interacted made it seem like there was more to it.”

Aurora watched as Pansy’s expression softened, her gaze reflecting a mix of contemplation and hesitation. The air around them seemed to shift, the conversation taking on a more thoughtful tone.

Pansy sighed, twirling her fork thoughtfully. “Fred’s always been a bit of a flirt, but he’s a good friend. That’s just his charm,” she said, though her eyes betrayed a flicker of doubt. She lifted her martini, sipping slowly as if gathering her thoughts.

Aurora tilted her head, leaning in slightly. “I get that, but what if there’s more to it? Would you ever consider giving him a chance?”

Pansy’s lips curved into a faint smile, though it didn’t quite reach her eyes. “I don’t know. I haven’t really thought about it. You know me, Rory—I’m not big on relationships. They always seem to come with so much pressure. Men often have these expectations, like they want me to be this perfect, conventional person who’ll just sit still and have lots of babies. That’s not what I want. I love my work at the magazine, and I love my freedom and my friends. That’s who I am, and I don’t want to change that.”

Aurora reached across the table, placing a reassuring hand on Pansy’s. “Pansy, you’re being a bit silly. Fred’s not like that. You know he wouldn’t expect you to quit your job or give up your friends. He’s gotten to know you for who you are and wouldn’t want you to become something you’re not. You’re incredible just as you are, and he sees that.”

Pansy’s eyes softened at Aurora’s words, the tension in her shoulders easing a little. “Maybe you’re right. It’s just... I’ve been so focused on my career and my independence that I haven’t really allowed myself to think about what I want in a relationship. I guess it’s a bit daunting.”

Aurora squeezed Pansy’s hand gently. “It’s okay to be unsure. Until then, we can keep an eye on Gianna and George,” she teased.

Gianna, who had been quietly listening while nibbling on her garlic bread, suddenly sat up straighter, her cheeks flushing a deeper pink. “There’s really nothing to know,” she said quickly, though the faint smile playing on her lips suggested otherwise.

Pansy, always the instigator, chimed in with a playful smirk. “Well, let us know if you ever seriously consider dating him.”

Gianna laughed, a bit embarrassed. “Of course, I’d consider it. He’s gorgeous, tall, funny… I don’t see why he’s still single, and that’s what scares me. What if there’s a reason all these women don’t want him?”

Aurora laughed softly, sipping her cocktail. "Maybe it’s because he’s chaos incarnate. He’s got this twin connection that can’t be broken, and yeah, the whole Quidditch obsession… But honestly, that just makes him more interesting."

Gianna chuckled, shaking her head. "Quidditch obsessed? What word are we using for Oliver, then? Insane?"

Pansy grinned, leaning back in her chair. "Oliver’s his own category. You’re talking about a man who would marry a broomstick if he could." She took a sip of her martini, her eyes twinkling with amusement. "But honestly, Gianna, George adores you. He’s not the type to play games, and if you’re even a little interested, it’s worth giving it a shot."

Gianna's eyes softened, her earlier hesitation giving way to thoughtfulness. "You really think so?" she asked, glancing between her friends.

Aurora nodded, her tone encouraging. "Absolutely. And it doesn’t have to be serious from the get-go. Just go on a date and see where it leads."

Pansy grinned, tapping her fork against her plate. "And if things go well, you’ll have us to thank. I’d say we deserve credit for this potential match."

The mood lightened again as their main courses arrived—delicate plates of roast chicken with truffle risotto for Aurora, seafood linguine for Pansy, and a perfectly grilled steak for Gianna. The food was exquisite, each bite a harmonious blend of flavors. Between bites, they continued to laugh, joke, and delve into more lighthearted topics.

As the meal finished and all the girls started saying goodbye, Aurora thought of the mess that had probably been made in the house. Aurora knew that it wasn't her house, but because Oliver couldn't clean, she had started doing it for him. However, if the twins had made this mess, she was sure to see that they cleaned it up.

When Aurora Apparated to Oliver’s front door, her hand hesitated just inches from the knob. A sense of dread crept over her—imagining the chaos Fred and George might have unleashed in her absence. After a deep breath and gathering the courage, she slowly turned the knob, bracing herself for the worst. Instead, she was met with a surprising sight: the three boys, peacefully asleep on the couches, the soft glow of the TV flickering in the room.

It wasn’t even 9:30, yet they were all sound asleep, their heads resting at odd angles, completely tuckered out. Empty takeout containers and crumpled napkins littered the coffee table, remnants of the feast they had enjoyed. With a quiet flick of her wand, the containers folded themselves neatly and floated off to the trash, disappearing with barely a sound.
Aurora smiled softly to herself as she tiptoed across the room, careful not to wake them. She switched off the TV and retrieved a few blankets. Gently, she draped one over Oliver, who shifted slightly in his sleep but didn’t stir. For Fred and George, she pulled out the oversized, purple knit blanket they always teased her about—“The blanket of doom,” Fred had once called it as if it might swallow him whole. With a smirk, she tucked it over the twins, who curled deeper into the couch, oblivious to her presence.

After softly kissing Oliver’s forehead, Aurora flicked off the lights and padded into the bedroom. She changed into her favorite pajamas—some old shorts and one of Oliver’s Gryffindor Quidditch shirts, which was ridiculously small for him now but just right for her. Despite having a growing collection of her own clothes at his place, she always opted for his shirts when he wasn’t there. They smelled like him and offered some comfort when she couldn’t curl up beside him.

The bed felt emptier without him there, and though it took her a while, she finally drifted off to sleep.

Aurora woke the next morning to the familiar and comforting smell of breakfast wafting through the apartment. A smile crept onto her face before she even opened her eyes—this was one of her favorite things about staying with Oliver. Stretching lazily, she didn’t bother to change out of his shirt as she made her way toward the kitchen, where she could hear the soft murmur of voices.

When she walked into the living room, she saw Oliver—standing, no longer confined to bed rest—busy at the stove. Fred and George were perched on the stools by the kitchen island, sipping coffee and munching on some toast. The sight of the three of them together made her heart warm.

Aurora slid into one of the stools without saying a word, leaning against the counter with a sleepy smile. Fred, ever the joker, slung an arm over her shoulder. “I always knew you were gorgeous, but in Gryffindor red? Merlin’s beard, it’s a whole other level.” He grinned, eyes twinkling mischievously as he glanced at Oliver’s shirt draped over her small frame.

Sensing the teasing, Oliver turned around from the stove with a smirk. “Oi, mate, that’s my girlfriend you’re talking about,” he said, pointing a spatula in Fred’s direction, though his tone was more playful than serious.

Aurora suddenly felt a wave of embarrassment, realizing she hadn’t asked Oliver if she could borrow his shirt. She tugged at the hem of it self-consciously, her cheeks flushing. “Sorry, I didn’t—”

Oliver shook his head, cutting her off with a soft chuckle. “You don’t need to ask, Rory. I kind of like seeing you in my old Quidditch shirts.”

Fred groaned dramatically, leaning back in his chair. “Ugh, the two of you are too cute. It’s sickening.”

George, who had been quietly watching, grinned. “Yeah, mate, I think we need to keep them separated. Otherwise, this place is going to be one big, cozy love nest.”

Aurora laughed, the embarrassment fading as the warmth of the morning filled her. She took a sip of the tea Oliver had poured for her, feeling completely at home in the easy banter of the group. Breakfast together felt like the perfect way to start the day, and as she watched Oliver move around the kitchen, she couldn’t help but feel a little proud of how far they had come.

Sitting between Fred and George, Aurora marveled at how natural and comforting this felt—this sense of family. She took a bite of toast, watching as Oliver moved around the kitchen with ease. The boys chatted and joked, the atmosphere light and familiar, and the whole scene gave her a feeling of contentment she hadn’t expected.

“So, Ollie,” George said, his mouth half-full of bacon, “when’s the next big game? You’ve been out of commission for a while, but the team’s not sinking, are they?”

Oliver shot him a look, though his grin betrayed his amusement. “Nah, they’re still afloat. But I’ll be back soon. I’m actually meeting with the team’s healer tomorrow to check on my recovery.”

Fred leaned back in his chair, already halfway through his second plate. “Good. We need our favorite Keeper back on the field. Can’t have the Cannons doing well without their star player.”

Oliver laughed, shaking his head as he flipped another pancake. “Star player, huh? That’s high praise coming from you, Fred.”

Fred smirked, leaning over to nudge Aurora. “He’s humble, isn’t he? We’ve only heard about his Quidditch record a hundred times.”

Aurora smiled, giving Fred a playful nudge in return. “You know he’s the best, Fred. Don’t act like you’re not secretly a fan.”

Fred raised his hands in mock surrender. “Alright, alright. I’ll admit it. Oliver’s good at his job. But don’t let that go to your head, Wood.”

Oliver chuckled, turning around with a plate of pancakes and setting them in the center of the counter. “Trust me, with you lot around, I’m not in any danger of getting a big head.”

As they all started to eat, the conversation flowed effortlessly. The twins recounted stories from their latest joke shop experiments, talking about the new products they were developing and how business was booming. Aurora listened, amused, as they described a new line of enchanted sweets that would change your hair color based on your mood.

“You should come by the shop sometime, Aurora,” George said, his eyes gleaming with excitement. “We’ve got some prototypes you might want to test out. Though… I’m not sure Oliver would appreciate you showing up with bright green hair.”

Aurora laughed, imagining herself with wild, ever-changing hair. “I’m game, as long as you promise not to turn me into a walking advertisement for your shop.”

Fred grinned. “No promises.”

Oliver, who had been quietly listening, shook his head with a grin. “As long as you two don’t rope her into one of your more dangerous experiments. I’d rather not spend another week in bed because of one of your pranks.”

Fred gave him a mock serious nod. “George, make a note to keep the exploding cauldrons away from Aurora.”

The banter continued, lighthearted and fun, but an undercurrent of warmth and friendship tied it all together. Aurora felt a sense of belonging in this little group like she was part of something bigger than just her relationship with Oliver. The twins had welcomed her into their fold, and she appreciated how natural it all felt.

As the breakfast plates slowly emptied and the morning grew brighter, the boys grew more animated. They planned a future group outing to Hogsmeade. They tossed around ideas for a day trip, maybe even a weekend getaway to relax before the next big Quidditch match.

Aurora leaned back in her chair, her heart full as she watched Oliver, Fred, and George laugh together. It was hard to believe how quickly everything had changed in the past few months. Her life with Oliver had started as a whirlwind, and yet now, sitting here in his apartment, surrounded by his friends, it all felt like it had always been this way—like this was where she was meant to be.

She caught Oliver’s eye across the table, and he gave her a small smile, the kind that made her feel like they shared some unspoken understanding. Despite the jokes and the lightheartedness of the morning, there was something solid and reassuring in that look. They had found something special together, and no matter how much the twins teased or how chaotic things could get, Aurora knew they would figure it out.

Oliver pushed his chair back and stood, stretching. “Alright, I think I’ve had enough of sitting around. How about we go out for a walk later? Fresh air might do me some good.”

Fred looked over at him, incredulous. “A walk? Mate, you’ve barely just gotten off bed rest. You sure you want to be out and about already?”

Oliver shrugged. “I’m not saying we go run a marathon, but a little stroll wouldn’t hurt. Besides, I’m going stir-crazy cooped up here.”

Aurora smiled, “Sounds like a good plan. I could use some fresh air, too. I'll come back around during lunch, and we can go for a walk.”

George raised an eyebrow. “Alright then, but no wild adventures. We can’t have you pulling another injury before you’re back on the field.”

Oliver rolled his eyes playfully. “I’ll try to keep the wild adventures to a minimum.”

After breakfast, Aurora busied herself tidying up the kitchen while Fred and George helped clear the counter, though their definition of “help” involved more banter than actual work. Still, Aurora couldn’t help but smile as the two brothers teased each other relentlessly, their antics filling the room with lighthearted energy.

Now feeling more like himself, Oliver leaned against the counter, watching Aurora with a quiet appreciation. He still found it remarkable how easily she fit into his life, how seamlessly she had become a part of his world, even with Fred and George’s chaotic influence. He wasn’t sure how he’d managed without her before.

As Aurora placed the last dish in the sink, she felt Oliver’s arm slip around her waist, pulling her gently toward him. She glanced up at him, and he gave her that crooked smile she loved so much.

"Thanks for this morning," he said softly, his voice just loud enough for her to hear. "I know it’s been a bit much lately, with the injury and everything. You’ve been amazing."

Aurora leaned into him, resting her head against his chest. "I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else. Plus, it’s been fun having Fred and George around the house, even if they do turn every moment into a comedy show."

Oliver laughed softly, pressing a kiss to the top of her head. "That’s the twins for you. You’ve handled them better than most."

Fred, overhearing, popped his head up from across the room. "Oi! We heard that. We’re delightful company."

Aurora laughed, feeling the lighthearted atmosphere around them. She hesitated momentarily but couldn’t stop as the words slipped from her lips. “Speaking of being sappy, George, what's going on with you and Gianna? There’s no denying the way you look at her.”

Oliver, who had been close to Aurora, gasped, his eyes widening in surprise. Aurora immediately felt a flash of guilt—maybe this wasn’t the best time to bring it up, especially with the easygoing mood they were all in. But it was out there now.

George caught off guard, rubbed the back of his neck and sat up a little straighter. “Uh… well, since you ask," he started, clearly trying to play it cool, though a faint blush crept into his cheeks. "I’ve been thinking about making things a little more… romantic between us. I’ve considered asking her out on a proper date."

Aurora couldn’t hide her excitement, her grin stretching from ear to ear. “That’s great news, George because she said the exact same thing about you!”

George's eyes widened, a mixture of shock and delight crossing his face. "She did?" he asked, his voice full of genuine surprise.

Fred, always eager to stir the pot, leaned forward with a cheeky grin. “Look at you, Georgie! Already making progress, and you didn’t even know it.”

George gave his twin a playful shove, but there was a spark of hope in his eyes. “Well, maybe I’ll ask her out sooner than I thought,” he said, his voice carrying a newfound confidence.
Aurora clapped her hands together, unable to contain her excitement. “Oh, you should! You two would be so great together.”

Oliver, watching the scene unfold, couldn’t help but smile. “Looks like we’ll have to start planning a double date,” he joked, squeezing Aurora a little tighter.

Fred leaned forward dramatically, always quick to turn any conversation back into humor. “Well, now that Georgie’s practically got a girlfriend and Ollie here is all domesticated with Aurora, I suppose I’m the last of a dying breed. A lone, romantic bachelor in a world full of relationships. What a tragic figure I’ve become.”

Aurora rolled her eyes but laughed. “Fred, you’re the least tragic person I know.”

Fred grinned mischievously. “I’m deeply misunderstood.”

Oliver chimed in with a smirk, squeezing Aurora gently. “Mate, if you’re trying to be tragic, you’ll need to be a lot more brooding. Maybe start wearing black and staring out of windows thoughtfully.”

Fred gasped, clutching his chest in mock pain. “That’s exactly it! I’ll become a poet. The world simply hasn’t appreciated my depth.”

George groaned from his spot. “Merlin, don’t encourage him.”

But Aurora noticed the slight shift in Fred’s expression. Beneath all the jokes and his carefree exterior, there was something more going on. Maybe he wasn’t quite as “tragic” as he made himself out to be, but there was a certain vulnerability when it came to Pansy that she hadn’t seen before. She made a mental note to check in with him later—Fred’s bravado might be hiding something deeper.

“Anyway,” George cut in, steering the conversation back, “you two,” he pointed at Oliver and Aurora, “really are becoming disgustingly domestic, aren’t you? What’s next? Matching house slippers and weekend trips to the countryside?”

Aurora laughed a playful glint in her eyes. “I mean, we’ve already got a whole routine going, haven’t we, Ollie? I think we’re just one step away from a cottage with a garden.”

Oliver raised an eyebrow at her, a grin tugging at his lips. “Cottage with a garden? Who knew you were such a romantic?”

Aurora shrugged innocently. “I’ve got layers.”

Fred groaned dramatically. “Merlin, save us all. They’re going to start baking bread and knitting scarves.”

“Don’t knock it ‘til you try it, Fred,” Aurora teased. “I’m sure Pansy would love a hand-knitted scarf.”

Fred’s cheeks flushed just slightly at the mention of Pansy, and he shot her a mock glare. “Oi, less about me, more about George and his blossoming love life.”

Aurora grinned, leaning into Oliver’s side as he wrapped an arm around her waist. “You’re not getting out of this one so easily, Fred. George spilled his guts, so now you have to spill yours. It’s only fair.”

Fred shifted uncomfortably on his chair, his usual confidence wavering slightly. “Alright, alright. What do you want to know? I’m an open book.”

“Hmm,” Aurora said, tapping her chin thoughtfully. “Let’s start with something simple. What’s your ideal date? And don’t give me any of that cheeky nonsense. I want the real deal.”

Fred hesitated, glancing at George for support, but his friend was busy fiddling with the TV remote, clearly enjoying Fred’s discomfort. “Fine,” Fred said with a sigh. “Ideal date... I guess it would be something where I can actually have a decent conversation. I like the idea of a quiet dinner where we can just talk and get to know each other without all the fuss.”
Aurora raised an eyebrow, clearly pleased with the answer. “See, that wasn’t so bad. It sounds like you’ve got a bit of a soft side after all.”

Fred grinned, shrugging. “What can I say? Even the most charming prankster has a soft spot. Now, can we get back to George and Gianna? I’m getting a bit of a complex here.”

“No, we may not, but thank you for asking.” Aurora’s expression turned more serious, her gaze fixed on Fred. “Fred, I need you to be serious. Are you just hitting on Pansy for the fun of it, or would you like to be with her? She’s my best friend. I have a right to know.”

Fred’s playful demeanor faltered, and he looked down at his hands for a moment before meeting Aurora’s gaze. There was a flicker of sincerity in his eyes. “ I’ll be honest. I do like Pansy. She’s clever and interesting, and she’s got this way about her that’s just magnetic. I’ve enjoyed the banter and the flirting, but it’s not just for fun. I genuinely like her and would be interested in seeing where it could go. But I don’t want to mess things up, especially because she means a lot to you and you mean a lot to Oliver, who means a lot to me”

Aurora studied Fred carefully, her expression softening as she processed his words. “Thank you for being honest, Fred. I appreciate it. Pansy’s been through a lot and deserves someone who genuinely cares about her. I think you’re a good person, and if you really do have feelings for her, then it’s worth pursuing.”

Fred looked relieved, and he gave Aurora a small, grateful smile. “I just hope I don’t screw things up. I know I have a tendency to be a bit of a fool sometimes.”

Aurora smiled back, her tone warm and reassuring. “We all have our moments. Just ask Oliver or me—we’ve had our fair share of foolishness.”

Oliver, catching the end of the conversation, glanced over at Fred with a knowing smile. “Isn’t that the truth? We’ve had our own share of blunders, but here we are, happier than ever.”
Fred chuckled, his usual bravado softening as he looked at Oliver and Aurora. “Well, if you two can make it through your fair share of chaos and still come out on top, then maybe there’s hope for the rest of us.”

Aurora’s eyes sparkled with affection as she watched Oliver. “It’s not about being perfect. It’s about finding someone who makes you want to be better, even when you’re at your most foolish.