The Cannons

Aurora forced herself to wake up extra early on Saturday. Even though she was usually an early riser, Oliver's routine made her look like a late sleeper. She wanted to surprise him with coffee and a pastry to thank him for their wonderful night together.

She had fallen asleep in Oliver’s Quidditch jersey, and as much as she would love to, she couldn’t go out in it without attracting attention. Instead, she opted for a pair of joggers and a Chudley Cannons hoodie that she borrowed from Oliver’s closet. It was the next closest thing that would draw less attention.

As she walked to the café, her mood was buoyant, reminiscing about the night before. However, her cheerful demeanor was abruptly interrupted by a group of girls chatting animatedly at the café. Aurora almost walked past them, but their conversation caught her attention.

“That lucky bitch. I would love to be making out with Oliver Wood in the middle of London,” one of the witches, around Aurora’s age, said loudly.

Aurora's heart sank as she turned her head to see them. The witches were standing in line, holding copies of the Daily Prophet. Her stomach dropped as she realized what they were discussing. She quickly picked up her coffee and pastries, hurrying to the nearest newsstand without making eye contact.

She threw a few coins on the counter and immediately grabbed a copy of the Daily Prophet. The headline blared: "Oliver Wood and His Secret Lover Caught Again This Time in Muggle London." Aurora's pulse raced as she scanned the page, her eyes locking onto the photograph beneath the headline.

The picture captured a moment from their walk the day before. It showed Oliver pulling her hood over Aurora’s face, but more strikingly, it captured Aurora kissing him with evident passion. The image was candid, showing the tail end of their embrace and Oliver deepening the kiss. The shot painted a vivid picture of their intimate moment in the bustling streets of London, making it look as if they were caught in a passionate make-out session.

Aurora’s hands trembled slightly as she clutched the newspaper. She felt a pang of anxiety and self-consciousness, realizing that their private moment had been exposed. She glanced around the stand, her mind racing as she tried to process the invasion of their privacy.

With a deep breath, Aurora headed back toward Oliver’s apartment, her thoughts swirling as she considered how to approach the situation.

As Aurora made her way back to Oliver’s apartment, her mind was a whirlwind of emotions. She kept glancing down at the Daily Prophet, trying to steady her racing thoughts. The image on the front page was a stark reminder of how their private lives had become public fodder. She couldn’t shake the feeling of vulnerability and frustration.

When she finally arrived at Oliver’s flat, she took a moment to compose herself. She wanted to be strong for him and avoid any hint of distress. She took a deep breath, reminded herself of her purpose, and walked up to the door.

Oliver was already up and sitting in the living room.

Aurora entered, trying to mask her unease with a bright smile. “Good morning, Oli!” she said cheerfully, setting the coffee and pastries on the kitchen counter.

Oliver turned, a smile spreading across his face when he saw her. “Morning, Rory. You’re up early.” He walked over to give her a quick, affectionate kiss on the cheek.

Aurora’s smile faltered slightly as she reached into her bag and pulled out the Daily Prophet. She handed it to Oliver with a hint of tension in her voice. "Oli, read this."

Oliver took the newspaper from her, his expression initially light-hearted. He leaned against the counter, still smiling as he unfolded the paper. His grin remained as he scanned the headline and the accompanying photograph, though it slowly started to fade. Aurora could see that he wasn’t reacting as she’d expected.

“I don’t see any problems,” Oliver finally said with a shrug, handing the paper back. “Your face isn’t in it, so there’s no harm done.” He smiled, trying to lighten the mood. “But if you’re looking for something to be upset about, let’s be mad that they’re no longer calling you ‘alluring’ or ‘mysterious’.”

Aurora’s frustration bubbled up, and she shook her head, her eyes narrowing in exasperation. “Oliver, that’s not what I’m upset about, and you know it.”

He gave her a teasing grin, clearly attempting to defuse her rising tension. “Rory, you and I will continue to make headlines—it's annoying, sure, but you’re dating the hottest Quidditch player out there. As unfortunate as it is, it's something you'll have to get used to.” He wrapped his arms around her and pulled her close, kissing the top of her head.

Aurora leaned into the hug but couldn’t help rolling her eyes. “You’re so full of yourself,” she muttered, half-serious, half-joking. She hugged him back, allowing herself to relax into his warmth for a moment. The scent of his cologne mixed with the lingering smell of coffee, grounding her in their shared space.

“I think I’m going back to my place tonight,” Aurora continued after a pause, pulling back slightly. “I haven’t been there in a while. I’ll probably invite Pansy over for dinner. We have things to talk about.”

Oliver raised an eyebrow, his expression turning playful. “Aurora, are you having Pansy over in order to ‘kiss and tell’?” His tone was teasing, his eyes dancing with mischief as he watched her reaction.

Aurora swatted him lightly on the arm, a smirk tugging at her lips. “And so what if I am?”

Oliver chuckled, leaning down to kiss her forehead again. "Just make sure you tell Pansy I’m fantastic in all aspects. We can’t have her thinking you’re dating a man who only knows how to fly around a pitch."

“It will also be nice to talk to her about George and Gianna. They have their date tonight, and I'm so happy for her,” Aurora smiled. “And maybe I'll send the Prophet photographers after them so we can stay off the paper for a minute.”

“If you really want to send the photographers after someone, just wait until Pansy and Fred get their shit figured out,” Oliver suggested playfully.

Aurora laughed, her eyes twinkling with amusement. "Oh, don't tempt me. Fred and Pansy would make quite the headline. 'Slytherin Princess Caught in Weasley Web' or something ridiculous like that."

Oliver grinned, leaning back in his chair. "I can already see Fred hamming it up for the cameras while Pansy tries to hex every photographer in sight."

Aurora swatted at him again playfully. “Exactly! I don’t think the Prophet’s ready for the chaos those two would bring. But honestly, I can’t wait to see what happens with them. There’s always been something brewing between them, even if Pansy’s too stubborn to admit it.”

Oliver raised an eyebrow. “You think Fred could handle her? Pansy's pretty fierce, and Fred’s… well, he’s Fred.”

Aurora smiled, her thoughts drifting to her friend. “Fred’s exactly what she needs. He’s the only person who can match her wit and charm without backing down. Plus, he’ll keep her laughing, which is no small feat. I think they’d be perfect together—if they ever stop dancing around it.”

“I got it,” Oliver looked like he’d coaxed a master plan. You have Pansy over. I’ll cook. I’ll say I invited Fred over so that you girls could have some time alone. We will create a very romantic atmosphere. They are bound to fall. Aurora, I’m a genius.”

Aurora's laugh filled the room, a melodic sound that always seemed to brighten the space around her. She tilted her head, giving Oliver a playful, knowing look. “A romantic atmosphere, huh? You’re really going all in on this matchmaking scheme, aren’t you?”

Oliver’s grin widened as he leaned forward, his eyes gleaming with excitement. “Absolutely. I mean, think about it! Soft lighting, some nice music, maybe a little wine… I’ll cook something impressive—something that’ll make Fred think twice before pulling any pranks. We can get Pansy relaxed, drop a few hints, and bam—they’re bound to notice the sparks.”
Aurora shook her head, still laughing but clearly intrigued. “You’re ridiculous, you know that? But I can’t deny it might actually work. Pansy would never admit it, but she’s got a soft spot for Fred. And Fred… well, I think he’s already smitten.”

She could picture it now: Pansy walking in, her sharp eyes scanning the scene, suspicious at first but slowly letting her guard down as Fred worked his usual charm. She could imagine Fred’s playful teasing slowly breaking through Pansy’s icy exterior until her sarcasm melted into laughter.

“Alright, let’s say we do this,” Aurora mused, leaning her elbows on the table. “What’s on the menu, oh master chef? You know Pansy has ridiculously high standards.”

Oliver rubbed his chin, pretending to contemplate deeply. “Something that says 'I’m a culinary genius' but also ‘I’m not trying too hard.’ Maybe a roasted lamb with rosemary? Or a classic steak dinner with all the fixings—Fred loves a good steak, and Pansy’s got a taste for sophistication.”

Aurora raised an eyebrow, impressed. “Look at you, pulling out all the stops."

Aurora clapped her hands together, eyes sparkling with excitement. “Okay, I’m in. We’ll make it subtle enough that they don’t feel cornered but romantic enough that they can’t help but notice each other.”

Oliver chuckled, running a hand through his hair. “I promise. This is going to be the dinner that seals the deal. Pansy and Fred won’t know what hit them.”

Aurora stood up, crossing the room to grab her bag. “I’ll write Pansy and make it sound like a casual hangout."

Oliver leaned against the kitchen counter, watching her with a grin. “And if Fred brings one of his pranks, we’ll just have to outsmart him. But you know he’s going to sense something’s up. He’s too sharp to let us get away with it easily.”

Aurora, laughing. “That’s why we have to play it cool. If we act normal, he’ll be too busy enjoying the food and flirting with Pansy to notice anything else.”

After they finished their coffees Oliver headed out to the shops to gather the ingredients for their master plan while Aurora took the Floo back to her own house. Stepping into the familiar space, she was immediately hit with a strange feeling. Although the house was uniquely hers, filled with her own personal touches—the soft rugs, the collection of vintage books on her shelves, and the calming scent of lavender, she always loved—it no longer felt like the haven it once was.

She stood in the middle of the living room, her eyes scanning over the space. It was neat and organized, just as she liked it, but something was missing. The walls that once brought her comfort now felt a little colder, emptier. She realized that Oliver’s place had started to feel more like home lately. The way his laugh echoed through the rooms, the warmth of his cooking filling the air, the casual messiness of his Quidditch gear scattered around—it all felt alive in a way this house didn’t anymore.

Aurora sighed and walked over to the window, looking out at the quiet street below. She loved her independence and cherished the space she had built for herself, but it was hard to ignore the growing sense that home wasn’t a place—it was a feeling. And that feeling was more and more tied to Oliver.

She felt a warm flush bloom across her cheeks at the thought. It was as if the corners of her world had softened whenever he was near; even when he wasn’t, her thoughts were often drawn to him.

Shaking herself out of her musings, Aurora turned back to the task at hand—setting up for tonight’s dinner. She had no time for sentimental thoughts, not when there were things to organize. The living room was a little cluttered, a few pillows scattered about from her last cozy reading session, and the kitchen had a faint smell of herbs from the tea she had started to brew. With a renewed focus, she tidied up, straightened the cushions, and put away the odds and ends that accumulated.

Oliver arrived at Aurora's flat with his arms full—several bags balancing precariously on one side—and a beautiful bouquet of wildflowers bursting with vibrant colors in his other hand. The flowers looked freshly picked, a mix of daisies, lavender, and delicate greenery that seemed to capture a bit of nature’s charm.

As he stepped through the door, his eyes immediately found Aurora, who was just putting the last touches on the dinner table.

He gave her a warm smile, his gaze softening. “Thought these might brighten your day after the prophet.” He handed her the bouquet with a playful wink.

Aurora’s eyes lit up, and she took the flowers, bringing them to her nose to inhale their fresh scent. “They are lovely,” she said, setting the bouquet in a vase she had nearby.

Oliver shrugged, setting the bags on the kitchen counter. “It’s the least I could.” His voice had a playful undertone, though his eyes held a deeper appreciation as he watched her arrange the flowers.

She walked over to him and kissed him quickly on the cheek before glancing at the bags he had brought in. “What’s all this?”

“Just a few things for dinner. There’s a homemade pasta kit in here, some fresh vegetables, and a dessert that I may or may not have spent an hour picking out because I couldn't decide,” Oliver said, clearly proud of his effort.

Aurora laughed, feeling a rush of excitement as she peeked into the bags. “I love that you’ve thought of everything. You really didn’t have to go all out like this.”

Oliver looked at Aurora with a mock-serious expression, his hands resting on his hips as he surveyed the kitchen. “Believe me, I will not let my cooking be anything short of spectacular this evening. It’s crucial that everyone loves their meal so they can fall in love.”

Aurora raised an eyebrow, chuckling at his determined tone. “So, you’re not just cooking to impress me, then? You’re on a full-fledged matchmaking mission?”

Oliver gave a theatrical nod, his face full of earnest intent. “Absolutely. Tonight’s dinner isn’t just about food; it’s about creating an atmosphere where magic happens. If I can’t charm Pansy and Fred into realizing they’re meant for each other, at least I can ensure they have a meal they won’t forget.”

Aurora laughed, shaking her head in amusement. “Well, I have to say, I’m impressed by your dedication. If anyone can pull this off, it’s you.”

“The homemade pasta will take a while to dry, so I'm going to get started now,” Oliver said with a smile, already moving toward the kitchen counter where he began laying out the ingredients.

Aurora hesitated for a moment, then asked, “Can I help?” Normally, she was more of a spectator in the kitchen, perched on the counter with a glass of wine, enjoying the view of Oliver’s culinary skills. But tonight, she was feeling adventurous.

Oliver raised an eyebrow and grinned. “Sure, you can ‘help’—you can sit on the counter right there.” He made air quotes as he spoke, clearly enjoying the banter.

“No, I mean actually help,” Aurora said, crossing her arms and giving him a mock-serious look.

Oliver’s eyes widened in mock horror. “You mean actually help as in using your own hands? Are you sure? The kitchen is a dangerous place!”

Aurora rolled her eyes playfully. “I’m serious. I want to contribute, even if it’s just a little. Besides, I promise I won’t burn anything down.”

Oliver chuckled, shaking his head. “Alright, if you insist. But let’s set some ground rules. No experimenting with the spices and definitely no trying to create new dishes on the spot.”
Aurora nodded enthusiastically. “Deal. What do you need me to do?”

Oliver took charge in the kitchen with his usual enthusiasm, carefully setting up a designated area for Aurora to join him. The space he created for her was thoughtfully arranged, with a clean surface, rolling pin, and all the ingredients neatly laid out. He even placed a small apron on the counter, just in case Aurora wanted to wear it.

“Well, the pasta and the sauce will take the longest,” Oliver said, pulling out a pot and setting it on the stove. “I’ll handle the sauce; you can tackle the pasta.” He flashed a confident smile as he began to chop vegetables for the sauce. “So, this is your workstation,” he said, pointing to the area he’d prepared for her. It was set up with a bowl of flour, eggs, and a dough scraper.

Aurora laughed softly, feeling a bit like a student in a cooking class. “You’ve really gone all out, haven’t you?”

Oliver grinned, clearly relishing his role as the chef instructing his eager apprentice. “Just trying to make sure you have a great experience. So, here’s how it goes: Mix the eggs and flour together to form the dough. You’ll need to knead it for a while, so let me know if your arms start to get tired.”

Aurora laughed, playfully rolling her eyes. “Oliver, don’t be so silly. I am, after all, the dough expert. My arms don’t get tired.”

“Okay, love, if you say so.” Oliver chuckled, his eyes sparkling with amusement as he watched her get started.

Aurora approached her workstation, trying to suppress her smile. She cracked the eggs with practiced ease and added them to the flour, mixing the ingredients together. The dough was a bit sticky at first, but she worked it with determination, her hands getting covered in a light dusting of flour.

Oliver, stationed at his sauce-making station, kept glancing over at her with an encouraging grin. The aroma of his cooking wafted through the kitchen as he added a splash of wine to the sauce, letting it simmer to perfection. Every so often, he called out tips or offered gentle advice, his voice a reassuring presence amidst the clatter of utensils.
As Aurora kneaded the dough, her initial confidence began to waver. The repetitive motion was starting to take its toll, and she couldn’t help but let out a playful groan. “Okay, okay, maybe you were right about the arm thing. This dough is tougher than it looks.”

Oliver, who had been busy chopping vegetables on the counter, noticed her struggle and moved over to her side. He gently placed his head on top of hers, a soft touch that made her shiver with surprise and delight. His warmth enveloped her, and she could feel his breath against her hair.

He reached his arms around her, his hands gently guiding hers as he took over the kneading. “You’re doing great,” he murmured, his voice a soothing balm to her frayed nerves.
Aurora’s heart fluttered at the close proximity. The warmth of his body against hers, combined with the tenderness of his touch, made her feel as though time had slowed down. Her fingers pressed into the dough alongside his, and she could feel the strength of his hands blending with hers. The sensation was comforting and exhilarating, a reminder of their shared connection.

As Oliver continued to knead the dough, his hands brushed against hers occasionally, sending tiny shivers up her arms. Aurora closed her eyes for a moment, savoring the intimate closeness and the way his presence seemed to make everything feel right.

Aurora and Oliver continued to prepare the meal together, their movements synchronized in a comfortable rhythm. The kitchen was filled with the rich, savory smells of the pasta cooking and the gentle sizzle of vegetables being sautéed. Oliver's focus was on the sauce, while Aurora handled the salad, the two of them exchanging playful banter and stolen glances.

As the evening progressed, Aurora felt a buzz of excitement about their secret plan—a carefully orchestrated surprise dinner for their friends, Pansy and Fred. She knew it was going to be a fun evening filled with laughter and maybe a bit of mischief, and it made her anticipation even more palpable.

Pansy arrived precisely at 7, her impeccable punctuality a testament to her sharp sense of time. Her outfit was understated yet striking: a pair of sleek black trousers that hugged her figure just right and a beautiful cream blouse with delicate lace details along the neckline. Aurora knew that this was about as casual as Pansy ever got—she had a reputation for always dressing with a touch of sophistication, no matter the occasion.

Aurora welcomed Pansy into her flat with a warm hug, her excitement barely contained. The cozy atmosphere of the apartment was enhanced by the soft glow of the candles she had lit earlier, setting a romantic and inviting ambiance. Aurora’s attention was drawn to Pansy’s sharp gaze, noticing the subtle skepticism in her friend's eyes.

“Oh, Pansy, I’m so glad you’re here,” Aurora said brightly, trying to mask her slight nervousness. “Fred should be arriving any minute to keep Oliver company, and then you and I can have some much-needed girl time.”

Pansy’s eyes narrowed slightly as she raised an eyebrow. “Fred is joining us tonight? You didn’t mention that.” Her tone was casual, but the look she gave Aurora suggested she could see right through the pretense.

Aurora’s smile wavered for a moment before quickly recovering, her cheeks flushing slightly. “Oh, it must have slipped my mind,” she said, forcing a cheerful tone. She busied herself with straightening the few remaining decorations on the table, trying to avoid Pansy's probing gaze.

Pansy wasn’t easily fooled. She tilted her head slightly, crossing her arms over her chest. “Really? Because it seems to me like you might have had something else in mind.”
Aurora let out a nervous chuckle, attempting to keep the situation light. “I swear, Pansy, it was an honest mistake. I just thought having a little extra company tonight would be nice.
Just then, the sound of the doorbell rang through the apartment. Aurora’s heart skipped a beat at the sudden arrival and the thought of Pansy’s impending reaction to Fred’s presence.
“I’ll get it,” Aurora said, moving toward the door. As she opened it, Fred stood there with his characteristic grin, holding a small bouquet of flowers and a bottle of wine. His eyes sparkled with mischief as he saw Pansy standing behind Aurora.

“Evening, ladies,” Fred greeted, stepping inside with a flourish. “I come bearing gifts and a whole lot of charm.”

As Fred made his way further into the flat, Oliver appeared from the kitchen, wiping his hands on a towel. He greeted Fred with a friendly pat on the back and a warm smile. “Fred, good to see you. Just in time for dinner.”

Oliver’s presence seemed to ease the tension slightly, and the group settled into a comfortable rhythm as they gathered around the table. Aurora had arranged a spread of delicious dishes, including creamy pasta with mushrooms, a fresh salad, and garlic bread that filled the air with mouthwatering aromas.

Fred’s eyes widened with genuine appreciation as he looked at the table. “Blimey, Oliver, you’ve outdone yourself. This looks fantastic.”

Oliver’s grin broadened. “Thanks, mate. Hope it tastes as good as it looks.”

Aurora took her seat next to Pansy, who was still eyeing Fred with a mix of curiosity and guarded interest. “So, Pansy, what’s new with you?” Aurora asked, trying to steer the conversation toward neutral ground.

Pansy took a sip of her wine, her gaze flickering between Fred and Aurora. “Oh, you know, just the usual work stuff. The magazine’s keeping me busy.”

Fred leaned in, clearly enjoying the chance to tease. “And how about you, Pansy? Any new conquests or, dare I say, secret admirers?”

Pansy’s eyes narrowed playfully. “Well, if I did have any admirers, they’d probably be a bit less... chaotic than you.”

Fred laughed, his eyes twinkling with mischief. “Ah, come on, Pansy. You know you love the chaos.”

Aurora, sensing the growing camaraderie between Pansy and Fred, couldn’t help but feel a bit of satisfaction. She glanced at Oliver, who gave her a small, encouraging nod, clearly pleased with how the evening was unfolding.

Pansy quickly turned her attention to Aurora. “As much as I hate to change the topic, we should talk about Thanksgiving. It’s next week, so I figured we could all meet at my house around 5 and-”

“Oh, actually, Pansy, I was going to ask if you all would join us at our Thanksgiving dinner. Bill, Charlie, and Percey can't make it this year, and Hermione and Ron are on their honeymoon still. So my moms feeling a little down about not having a full enough house, so George and I don’t want to leave her hanging”

Pansy quickly turned her attention to Aurora. “As much as I hate to change the topic, we should talk about Thanksgiving. It's next week, so I figured we could all meet at my house around 5, and—”

“Oh, actually, Pansy," Fred interrupted with a casual grin, "I was going to ask if you all would join us at our Thanksgiving dinner. Bill, Charlie, and Percy can't make it this year, and Hermione and Ron are still on their honeymoon. Mum's feeling a little down about not having a full enough house, so George and I don’t want to leave her hanging.”

Aurora noticed the flicker of disappointment in Pansy's eyes. Pansy loved hosting events, and it was clear she had been looking forward to bringing everyone together at her place. But then, almost instantly, Pansy softened, realizing she wouldn’t want to take the Weasley brothers away from their mother during the holiday. “That sounds perfect, Fred,” she said with a weak smile, her enthusiasm dampened but sincere. “What should I bring?”

Fred gave her a warm look, clearly sensing her shift in mood. "Oh, my mum doesn’t need you to bring anything. She loves the whole cooking aspect. Taught Oli here everything he knows," he added with a wink, trying to lift the atmosphere.

Pansy managed a chuckle, though her eyes still held a trace of wistfulness. Fred, noticing her response, gently wrapped an arm around her. “Besides,” he teased, “it’ll be a great time for you to meet my parents.”

Pansy gave him a side-eye, amused but not entirely fooled by his attempt to cheer her up.

Aurora knew Pansy would be disappointed by the Thanksgiving shift, but she trusted Pansy would come around in time. As the conversation continued, she placed her hand on Oliver’s and asked curiously, “So, Oliver, Mrs. Weasley taught you to cook?”

Oliver smiled, enjoying the memory. “I’d say so. Molly Weasley is one of the best cooks in the wizarding world—maybe in the whole world,” he said proudly. “I spent a lot of my summers at the Weasleys'. They have this incredible way of making everyone feel welcome. When Ginny was younger and didn’t like cooking yet, I’d help Mrs. Weasley with lunch or dinner. It felt like my way of saying thanks for letting me stay and eat all their food.”

Aurora smiled warmly, loving how nostalgic Oliver seemed. Her thoughts briefly drifted to their plan to set Fred and Pansy up, which now felt slightly sidelined by the sudden Thanksgiving plans. She knew Pansy enjoyed hosting events, and when she caught a flicker of sadness on her friend's face, Aurora sympathized.

After dinner wrapped up, the boys cleared the table and started cleaning up in the kitchen, leaving Aurora and Pansy to settle into the cozy living room. They sank into the couch, the warmth of the fire flickering nearby, and the soft hum of conversation from the kitchen faded into the background.

Aurora turned to Pansy with a playful smile. "Pansy, I have some news to share," she said, her voice hinting at excitement.

Pansy raised an eyebrow, always quick to catch onto Aurora’s mood. "Aurora, darling, what have I told you?" She leaned in, her eyes glinting with mischief. "You have to make sure they’re at least close to death before you even think about marriage. It’s the fastest way to get their inheritance." She laughed, her sharp sense of humor ever-present.

Aurora chuckled, shaking her head at Pansy’s dramatic flair. “It’s not quite that!” she replied, her cheeks flushing slightly.

Pansy’s laughter softened, and she tilted her head, studying Aurora more closely. "Alright, alright, I’m listening. What’s this news then?"

Aurora hesitated for just a moment, savoring the suspense. She took a deep breath before grinning widely. “Oliver and I had sex last night. We decided it was time.”

Pansy’s eyes widened as she grabbed Aurora’s hands, her excitement bubbling over. “No way, Aurora! Good for you! And?”

Aurora’s cheeks flushed as she recalled the night. “It was absolutely amazing,” she confessed, her voice full of warmth.

Pansy gave her a playful shove. “I’m so jealous! You have no idea how hard it is to find good sex these days.”

Aurora giggled before lowering her voice as if speaking too loudly would break the moment. “Pansy, it wasn’t just the sex. He told me he loved me last night.”

Pansy had no intention of keeping her excitement to herself. Practically shouting, she grabbed a pillow from behind her and playfully whacked Aurora with it. “You’re so lucky! I swear, I’m going to shrink you and keep you in my pocket,” she exclaimed, her voice filled with playful envy.

Aurora laughed, clutching the pillow defensively, her cheeks flushed from both the teasing and her own excitement about the conversation. The room buzzed with their lighthearted energy when, not long after, Oliver and Fred entered the living room, each balancing two glasses of wine.

Oliver made his way to Aurora first, handing her a glass before leaning down to kiss her softly. She accepted both the wine and the kiss with a smile, their moment of tenderness contrasting with the earlier playfulness.

Fred, grinning and clearly inspired, approached Pansy with her glass of wine. He handed it to her, his eyes twinkling as he leaned in, waiting expectantly for his kiss in return. Pansy looked up at him, amused by his attempt to imitate Oliver, but she didn’t leave him waiting long. With a smirk, she leaned in and gave him a quick, playful peck on the cheek.

Fred straightened up, pretending to act satisfied. "Close enough," he teased, glancing at Oliver.

Pansy, still holding her glass, nudged Fred with her elbow. "Oh, come on, Weasley, if you're expecting more, you're going to have to work for it," she teased, sipping her wine. Her lighthearted challenge was met with Fred's exaggerated gasp.

"Work for it?" Fred placed a hand over his heart in mock offense. "I thought showing up with wine was effort enough!"

Pansy rolled her eyes, though a smile tugged at her lips. "Please, that’s bare minimum effort."

Aurora and Oliver both laughed at the exchange, the banter between Pansy and Fred taking center stage. Oliver leaned in closer to Aurora, his hand finding hers again. "Think they’ll actually get together?" he whispered quietly, his breath warm against her ear.

Aurora shrugged with a grin. "At this rate? Maybe by Christmas. But they'll keep us entertained until then," she whispered back.

As the evening continued, Aurora settled into the warmth of Oliver’s embrace, her head resting comfortably on his shoulder. She felt a deep sense of contentment and peace, the stresses of their busy lives fading away in the cozy ambiance of the living room. The soft glow of the fireplace cast a gentle light over the room, creating a backdrop for the laughter and camaraderie that filled the space.

Fred and Pansy’s banter grew more ridiculous as the night went on. Fred, ever the competitor, was determined to earn a "real" kiss from Pansy. His efforts involved a series of exaggerated gestures and playful compliments, each one more over-the-top than the last. Pansy, though initially resistant, found herself laughing harder with each of Fred's antics. Her resistance started to wane, and her smiles grew wider and more genuine.

Oliver, ever the enabler of good times, made sure neither Fred nor Pansy ever had an empty glass. Every time one of them finished their drink, he was quick to refill it, his own glass never far behind. Aurora, noticing the effect of the wine on their evening’s entertainment, jokingly suggested that maybe they had enough.

With a mischievous glint in his eye, Oliver responded, “Drunk words are sober thoughts.” His words seemed to ring true as the night went on. Aurora observed with amusement how Pansy’s laughter became more frequent and her jokes more elaborate. It was clear that the wine was loosening her up, and the playful atmosphere between Fred and Pansy only grew more vibrant.

It was close to 11 o'clock when Aurora’s fireplace roared with green flames, signaling Gianna’s arrival. Gianna stepped through with a beaming smile, her eyes sparkling with excitement. Her cheeks were flushed, and there was a palpable buzz of energy around her.

“Guess who’s back!” Gianna announced, her voice carrying an infectious enthusiasm as she surveyed the room. She quickly made her way to the couch, slipping into the spot between Aurora and Pansy with a sense of eager anticipation.

Sensing Gianna’s excitement, Aurora moved closer to Oliver to make space on the couch. She smiled warmly at Gianna, curious about the details of her date. Oliver, catching on, shifted slightly to ensure everyone was comfortable, his hand finding Aurora's waist as he settled beside her.

So, how did it go? You look like you’ve had a fantastic time.” Pansy eagerly asked.

Gianna’s eyes lit up even more. “It was amazing! George had planned this incredible magical cooking class for us. We spent the evening learning how to make enchanted dishes, and it was both fun and delicious. Then we Had a picnic under the stars”

Aurora leaned in, her curiosity piqued. “That sounds wonderful! Did you enjoy the cooking class?”

Gianna nodded vigorously. “Absolutely! George is amazing.”

Fred, who had been listening intently, raised an eyebrow with a playful smirk. “I bet you both had a great time.”

Gianna grinned, her excitement unabated. “Oh, we did! And the best part was how thoughtful and considerate George was. He made sure everything was perfect.”

Pansy looked at Gianna with a mixture of admiration and curiosity. “So, are you thinking about seeing him again?”

Gianna's expression softened, a touch of romance in her eyes. “Definitely. We had such a great connection. Oh, Merlin, and the best part—” she paused for dramatic effect, her cheeks flushing slightly, “—we kissed. It was perfect.”

The room erupted with a mix of teasing and genuine enthusiasm. Fred, who had been lounging with a casual air, straightened up with a mock frown. “You’ve got to be kidding me. Everyone seems to be getting kisses except me. What’s a guy gotta do around here to get a little romance?”

Pansy rolled her eyes playfully at Fred’s dramatic display but then stood up with a determined look. “Fred, do you ever stop talking?” she asked, though her tone was light-hearted. Without waiting for a response, she walked over to where Fred was sitting on the armchair. In a bold move, she leaned in and kissed him. It wasn’t a quick peck but a genuine, lingering kiss that seemed to catch everyone off guard.

Aurora, Gianna, and Oliver’s eyes went wide with surprise. Gianna, clearly taken aback, turned to look at them, her expression a mix of shock and amusement. Aurora quickly broke the silence. “I think Pansy has had a bit too much to drink tonight,” she said, trying to keep her tone light despite the astonishment.

Fred, still in a daze from the unexpected kiss, looked at Pansy with wide eyes. His surprise was evident, and he struggled to regain his usual composure. Pansy, on the other hand, casually sat back down as if nothing had happened. Her expression was cool and composed, but a faint blush colored her cheeks.

Oliver leaned in to whisper in Aurora’s ear, his breath warm against her skin. “Definitely before Christmas.” He set his chin on her shoulder, his presence close and comforting, not backing away after his whispered words. Aurora felt a shiver of excitement run through her at the intimacy of the moment.

Still puzzled by the sudden turn of events, Gianna looked at Aurora with a curious expression. “What is going on in here?”

Oliver was quick to jump in, his voice light and casual. “Pansy is just really happy about Fred inviting us all to have Thanksgiving with the Weasleys this year.” He flashed a reassuring smile, trying to steer the conversation back to safer ground.

Gianna's eyes widened in realization, and she gave Pansy an enthusiastic thumbs up. “That sounds amazing! It’s so nice to be included in family traditions. I bet it’ll be a fantastic time.”
Pansy, now more at ease with the conversation shifting, nodded in agreement. “Yes, it will be great. Fred is being very generous. I’m looking forward to it.”

Aurora looked with huge eyes at Oliver, knowing that only a few hours ago, Pansy was not happy with the idea.

Pansy rested her head on Gianna’s shoulder, “Aurora, I'm rather tired, can I sleep in your room.”

“Of course, Pansy,” Aurora spoke gently.

“And Aurora, will you stay with me, I hate being alone when I've had this much to drink,”

Gianna not understand the situation but wanting to get in on the fun, “Maybe Fred will stay with you Pansy?”

Aurora glanced at Oliver with wide eyes, her mind racing as she recalled that just a few hours earlier, Pansy had been quite resistant to the idea of spending Thanksgiving with the Weasleys. The change in attitude was noticeable, and Aurora couldn’t help but feel a mix of surprise and amusement.

Pansy, feeling the effects of the evening’s festivities, rested her head on Gianna’s shoulder. “Aurora, I’m rather tired. Can I sleep in your room?” Her voice was soft, and she seemed genuinely worn out from the evening.

“Of course, Pansy,” Aurora replied gently, offering a reassuring smile. She could see the tiredness in Pansy’s eyes and understood the need for comfort after a long night.
“And Aurora,” Pansy added, her voice tinged with a hint of vulnerability, “will you stay with me? I hate being alone when I’ve had this much to drink.”

Gianna, not fully understanding the situation but eager to be part of the fun, chimed in with a playful suggestion. “Maybe Fred could stay with you, Pansy?”

Still in a daze from the surprise kiss and looking increasingly unsettled, Fred glanced over with a pale expression. Gianna's playful remark seemed to push him further into his shell.
Gianna, seizing the opportunity to tease Fred, added with a mischievous grin, “What’s the matter, Fred? All talk, are we?” Her teasing tone was light-hearted, but it only seemed to deepen Fred’s confusion and discomfort.

“It’s alright, Pansy. I’ll stay here with you tonight,” Aurora said reassuringly, noticing Fred’s reaction.

“Gianna, let’s lay off him for a bit,” Aurora continued, her tone softening as she looked over at Fred, who was now visibly uncomfortable. “I think Pansy might have broken him.” She couldn’t help but chuckle softly as she saw Pansy’s serene expression, clearly at ease with her head resting on Gianna’s shoulder. “I don’t think he’s ever been this quiet for so long.”
“I don't want to move!” Pansy’s sudden outburst startled Aurora, who had been focused on Fred’s reaction. She looked over to find Pansy clinging to the spot on the couch, and her voice tinged with a mixture of stubbornness and exhaustion.

“That’s okay, Pansy. You can sleep here,” Aurora said soothingly, trying to maintain the calm atmosphere. “Oliver and I will sleep in my room. Gianna, did you want to stay since it seems like everyone is moving in?” Aurora glanced over at Gianna, who had been observing the situation with a bemused smile.

“Yeah, I’ll stay out here with Pansy. I’ll sleep on that chair over there,” Gianna said, pointing to an armchair across the room. Aurora nodded, grateful for Gianna’s willingness to help keep things settled.

“Fred?” Aurora asked, grabbing spare blankets from the cupboard. She handed one to Fred, who took it with a grateful nod. Aurora took this as a sign that Fred was willing to stay as well. She hoped that after everyone slept off their alcohol, they’d return to their usual selves, ready for a fresh start in the morning.

Luckily the next morning was Sunday breakfast for the group and their comfortable banter and teasing came back with ease, and Pansy and Fred had found their flirting rhythm again by the end of the breakfast.