The Semi-Finals
New Year's Eve came around way too quickly for Aurora. The thought of returning to their busy work schedules in the coming week loomed over her, even though she knew both she and Oliver were passionate about their careers. The time they had spent together over the holiday season had been a cherished reprieve, and she found herself wishing it could go on forever. The prospect of returning to the grind was bittersweet, as she couldn't help but want to spend all her waking moments with Oliver.
They were gearing up for a celebration at an exclusive party that Blaise had managed to get them all into. The event was set to be one of the most glamorous of the season, held in a stunning venue with a view of the city skyline. Aurora was particularly excited about the prospect of dancing the night away. The thought of twirling under the glittering lights and losing herself in the rhythm of the music was invigorating.
Oliver, too, was looking forward to the evening, but for a different reason. He knew that Aurora’s happiness was closely tied to her enjoyment of the night’s festivities, and seeing her excited and dancing joyfully was a source of immense satisfaction for him. The way her eyes sparkled when she talked about the party or the way her laughter would fill the room when she was excited was enough to make him look forward to the event, even amidst the busy schedule that awaited them.
As they prepared for the evening, Aurora chose a stunning midnight blue gown that shimmered subtly, reflecting the twinkling lights of their apartment. Oliver looked dashing in his tailored black suit, the epitome of elegance. They spent the day getting ready together, exchanging playful glances and light-hearted banter. The anticipation for the party added a layer of excitement to their preparations, and they both reveled in the opportunity to start the New Year in style.
When the time came to head out, they shared a quiet moment in their apartment, their excitement palpable as they prepared for the night ahead. Aurora, in her stunning midnight blue gown and sparkling with anticipation, leaned in to give Oliver a quick, loving kiss. They were about to apparate to the party, and she was thrilled at the thought of the evening ahead. As they appeared at the venue, Aurora looked around, but it seemed they were the first to arrive among her friends.
As they walked into the opulent venue, with its glittering chandeliers and festive decor, Oliver suddenly turned to Aurora with a thoughtful expression. “Have I ever told you about the time I first fell for you?” he asked, a hint of nostalgia in his voice.
Aurora raised an eyebrow, a playful smile tugging at her lips. “If you’re bringing up the blouse, I’m still mad about it.”
Oliver chuckled, shaking his head. “Actually, it was a few months before that.”
Aurora looked at him, puzzled. “But we hadn’t met before then?”
Oliver smiled, his eyes twinkling with a mix of fondness and mischief. “I know, but I saw your picture in the Prophet a few months earlier. It was a photo of you at Pansy’s birthday party.”
Aurora’s eyes widened as she tried to recall. “Wait, you’re not referencing the picture of me and Pansy, sloppy drunk, standing on the bar, are you?” Aurora remembered seeing the picture in the Prophet—she was just in the background, but clearly, Oliver had noticed her.
Oliver’s grin widened. “Yes, that’s the one. But you were not sloppy. You looked so carefree, as if your only job in life was to dance.”
Aurora felt a blush creep up her cheeks as she remembered the picture. It had been a wild night, and she could only vaguely recall the events. “I don’t remember much of that night,” she admitted, laughing softly.
Oliver’s gaze was filled with deep, earnest affection. “Even though you don’t remember, that’s how I remember you from that photo—just full of joy and abandon. I fell for you then, before I even knew you.”
“Than again, the night after we met officially when we were at that club, you were the same way, carefree and born to dance; it was then I knew for sure,” he spoke
Aurora chuckled, her cheeks still warm. “Again, I don’t remember much of that night. Maybe you only like me when I’m stupid drunk,” she teased, raising an eyebrow playfully.
Oliver shook his head with a smile. “Aurora, you managed to make me feel things in minutes that I had never felt for Penelope in years. It wasn’t about being drunk; it was about who you are—your spirit, your joy. You’ve always been that way, and it’s one of the things I love most about you.”
Aurora’s heart melted at his words, and she leaned in to give him a soft kiss. “I’m glad you see me that way, even if I don’t always remember all the details.”
Oliver pulled her closer, resting his forehead against hers. “I see you, Aurora, and I fall for you all over again every day.”
“There you two are!” Pansy shouted over the bustling crowd, her voice cutting through the lively chaos of the party. Fred, George, and Gianna followed closely behind her, each of them looking somewhat out of their element in their formal attire.
Aurora and Oliver laughed as they spotted their friends, their faces lighting up with relief. The party, with its glittering decorations and crowded dance floor, was starting to feel even more vibrant with their presence.
“Thank Merlin, I thought you guys weren’t coming,” Fred said, his voice a mix of playful annoyance and genuine relief. “I would have hexed you if you forced me into a suit and then ditched me.”
George chimed in, glancing around with a wry smile. “Yeah, I’m not sure the high-class suit-and-tie look is really our style, but we’re here. Though I might need a drink to ease the discomfort.”
Gianna, looking slightly less uncomfortable in her sleek dress than the twins but trying to make the best of it, gave a small, appreciative smile. “We’re just happy to be here.”
Pansy rolled her eyes playfully at Fred. “You’re just grumpy because you had to wear something other than your usual casual gear. Deal with it.”
Fred grinned and shrugged, his eyes flicking appreciatively over Pansy. “Guilty as charged. But seeing you in that gown makes it all worth it,” he flirted, his tone warm and teasing.
Pansy was wearing a stunning long black gown that hugged her body snugly, accentuating her curves and flowing elegantly around her legs. The gown’s deep neckline and intricate beading sparkled under the party lights, making her stand out even more in the crowd.
She smirked at Fred’s compliment, a soft blush coloring her cheeks. “Well, I’m glad you approve. I’ll take that as a win.”
Oliver made sure everyone was settled, grabbing a round of drinks from a nearby table and handing them out with a practiced ease. He scanned the room, his brow furrowing slightly. “Where are the other boys?”
Aurora glanced around and shrugged, a playful smirk on her lips. “Oh, forget them. They’re probably off talking business somewhere. These events are just a formality for them. They’re used to this sort of thing.”
She knew that Draco, Theodore, and Blaise had been raised in a world where formal events and high society gatherings were the norm. They were comfortable in their tailored suits and polished shoes, but often found themselves drifting away from the more social aspects of such events. For them, the true focus was usually on networking or discussing business rather than fully enjoying the festivities.
Oliver chuckled, shaking his head. “Sounds about right.”
As the night went on, Aurora made a conscious effort to demonstrate to Oliver that she could be carefree and fun without relying on alcohol. She sipped her champagne slowly, enjoying the light, bubbly taste while maintaining a lively and engaging presence.
As the clock neared midnight, Aurora felt a flutter of excitement in her chest. She had suggested to Oliver that they step outside for a bit of fresh air, but her real intention was to find a quiet spot where they could share a private moment as the New Year approached. She was eager to kiss him at the stroke of midnight without the crowd’s attention stealing away the intimacy of the moment.
Pansy had caught on to Aurora’s plan and was equally appreciative. She didn’t want her and Fred's enthusiastic celebrations to become fodder for the Daily Prophet the next morning. With a knowing smile, Pansy subtly gathered Fred, George, and Gianna, leading them outside to join Aurora and Oliver on the balcony. They were careful to keep the atmosphere light and casual, giving Aurora and Oliver the space they needed while still enjoying the festivities from a distance.
As the countdown to midnight began, Aurora and Oliver stood close together, their fingers intertwined. The city lights sparkled below, and the crisp winter air seemed to amplify the magic of the moment. Pansy and Fred, along with George and Gianna, engaged in lighthearted banter to keep the mood relaxed and jovial.
As the final seconds ticked away, Aurora could feel the electric buzz of anticipation. Pansy and the others joined in the countdown, their voices blending together in a cheerful chorus. “Ten, nine, eight…”
Aurora took a deep breath, her heart racing. She and Oliver leaned in, their foreheads touching gently. The world seemed to hold its breath as they reached “three, two, one…”
At the stroke of midnight, they shared a soft, tender kiss. It was a sweet and intimate moment, a perfect expression of their love and commitment to each other. Aurora’s heart swelled with joy, and she felt a profound sense of contentment as they pulled away, their eyes still locked.
Nearby, Pansy and Fred, as well as George and Gianna, also embraced their partners in kisses that were equally heartfelt and full of promise. The synchronization of their affection made the moment feel even more special, as if the entire group was celebrating not just the arrival of a new year, but the deep bonds they shared.
The night erupted into cheers and laughter from their friends. Fred and George, grinning broadly, let off a few party poppers, showering the balcony with a cascade of colorful confetti. The confetti sparkled in the moonlight, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Pansy, holding her glass high, raised a toast to the New Year. “To new beginnings and cherished memories!” she declared, her voice ringing with genuine warmth.
The group clinked their glasses together, their spirits high and hearts full. The air was filled with the sounds of celebration—laughter, the soft clinking of glasses, and the occasional whoop of excitement. As they continued to celebrate, Aurora felt a profound sense of gratitude for the close-knit circle of friends and the love that surrounded her and Oliver.
When the holiday season ended and everyone, including Oliver and Aurora, returned to work, Aurora couldn’t help but feel a pang of sadness. The joy of their time together had made the prospect of returning to their busy lives feel a little more daunting. The days spent wrapped up in each other’s company, with nothing but cozy evenings and laughter, seemed like a distant memory as their routines took over.
Oliver, determined to lead his team to victory, quickly immersed himself in a grueling practice schedule. With the Quidditch final just a month away, the pressure was on for him and the Chudley Cannons. The final was not just any game; it was the culmination of a season where the Cannons had performed exceptionally well this season and Oliver was part of the reason.
The intensity of the final was palpable. For Quidditch enthusiasts, especially those who played, it was the pinnacle of the sport. It was a chance for Oliver to make his mark and fulfill a lifelong dream. The rigorous training sessions, strategy meetings, and constant focus on improving their game meant long hours away from Aurora. While She knew how important this was for him, the reality of being apart from him more often weighed on her.
Aurora made every effort to be supportive of Oliver during the intense lead-up to the Quidditch final. Even though she was busy with her own work during the games, she would try her best to stay focused on oliver. She even started to understand the game and often cheered and booed with the cannon fans alike.
She had heard from a colleague that this was a particularly exciting season for the Cannons. Her coworker, who had followed the quidditch closely, mentioned that the Cannons had a genuine chance of winning the championship this year. They hadn’t secured a win in decades, and this season’s performance was making waves in the Quidditch community. The team’s impressive run had built a buzz of hope and anticipation among fans, and Oliver was seen as a key player in their success.
Aurora was both thrilled and anxious. The thought of the Cannons possibly clinching the championship was exhilarating, but she was also concerned for Oliver. She knew how much this final meant to him—not just as a player but as a culmination of years of hard work and dedication. The stakes were high, and the pressure was immense.
The excitement of the matches was matched by the constant media buzz surrounding the Cannons' success. News articles, interviews, and fan forums were abuzz with speculation about the team’s chances and Oliver’s pivotal role in their performance. Aurora often found herself reading these articles, trying to stay informed.
One of the stranger aspects of the Quidditch season for Aurora was witnessing the wave of adoration and attention that Oliver received from fans. It was surreal to see other women at the games proudly wearing jerseys with Oliver’s number on them, their faces alight with excitement and admiration. Their enthusiasm was palpable, with some even bringing large posters emblazoned with his number, hoping to catch his attention.
During matches, Aurora would often spot groups of enthusiastic fans sporting the Chudley Cannons’ colors, and it seemed like Oliver’s jersey number was particularly popular. They cheered loudly, their shouts blending into the collective roar of the crowd, while their eyes followed every move Oliver made on the pitch. It was clear that Oliver was enjoying the attention; he would often fly through the crowds, eager to show his fans that he saw them and appreciated their support.
The phenomenon wasn’t limited to the games. Off the pitch, women would eagerly approach Oliver, asking for photos or autographs. They would often hang out in groups, their excitement palpable as they gushed about how much they admired his skills and dedication. The attention was constant, and Aurora noticed how some women would touch his shoulder or make comments about how attractive or fit he was.
Aurora felt a twinge of jealousy each time a beautiful woman approached Oliver. It wasn’t just the physical contact that unsettled her but also the way some of these interactions seemed to flirtatiously emphasize Oliver’s allure. Despite her mixed feelings, she knew that Oliver handled these situations with grace. He was always polite and respectful, and would gently redirect their hands or steer the conversation away from personal comments. He was keenly aware of Aurora’s presence and made an effort to ensure she was comfortable with the interactions.
Oliver’s awareness of Aurora’s feelings and his attempts to keep things respectful were reassuring. Yet, despite his best efforts, it was difficult for Aurora to fully shake off the discomfort. The attention and admiration from fans were a constant reminder of the unique challenges of dating someone so publicly celebrated. Nonetheless, Aurora tried her best to stay supportive and focus on the joy and pride she felt for Oliver’s achievements.
One evening, after a particularly intense match, Oliver and Aurora found themselves relaxing at home. The quiet of their apartment was a stark contrast to the frenetic energy of the games. Aurora sat on the couch, her legs tucked under her, while Oliver paced the room, his mind still racing from the day’s events.
“Did you see the way those fans were today?” Aurora asked, her tone a mix of curiosity and exasperation. “It’s like every game turns into a full-blown spectacle.”
Oliver chuckled, rubbing the back of his neck. “Yeah, it’s been quite the ride. I appreciate their support, but sometimes it feels like the pressure just keeps building.”
Aurora looked at him, her eyes filled with empathy. “I can only imagine. I’ve been trying to stay positive and supportive, but it’s hard not to notice the way some of the interactions can be… intense.”
Oliver walked over and sat beside her, taking her hand in his. “I know. It’s not always easy, and I hate that it’s causing you any discomfort. I want you to know that no matter how many people are cheering from the stands, you’re the one who really matters to me.”
Aurora squeezed his hand, appreciating his reassurance. “I know, Oliver. I just wish there was an easy way to manage all of this. I want to be there for you, and I want us to enjoy this time without the added stress.”
Oliver smiled softly, leaning in to kiss her forehead. “We’ll get through it together. And when this season is over, we can focus on our own time, away from all the craziness.”
As the days passed, Aurora and Oliver continued to support each other, finding solace in their shared moments of downtime. They would often spend evenings at home, watching movies or cooking together, moments that reminded them of the strength of their relationship amidst the whirlwind of Oliver’s Quidditch career.
As the semi-finals approached, the excitement in the stadium was palpable. The stands were packed with fans, their cheers and anticipation filling the air. Aurora sat in her seat, her heart racing with a mix of excitement and anxiety. She wanted nothing more than for Oliver and the Cannons to win, but the thought of his growing fame and the implications for their relationship weighed heavily on her mind.
Oliver’s performance had been outstanding throughout the season, and his star power had only grown with each game. It was exhilarating to see him succeed, but the constant attention from fans, particularly women who seemed enamored with him, was starting to take a toll on Aurora’s nerves. She couldn’t help but worry about the future—if Oliver’s fame continued to soar, would their relationship be scrutinized even more?
The idea of making their relationship public had been on their minds recently, but the decision was fraught with uncertainty. On one hand, they wanted to be open about their love and not hide it. On the other hand, Aurora feared that coming out publicly might only intensify the media’s focus on their relationship, potentially causing more stress and unwanted attention.
As the game unfolded, Aurora watched Oliver with a mix of pride and anxiety. Each time he made a remarkable play or stopped a goal, the crowd erupted into cheers, and the cameras zoomed in on him. It was exhilarating to witness his talent and the way he captivated the audience, but each flash of the camera and every enthusiastic cheer also reminded her of the intense scrutiny he faced.
The semi-finals were a high-stakes affair, and Oliver's performance was nothing short of spectacular. The Cannons were giving their all, and Oliver was at the center of it, leading the charge with his usual determination and skill. The stadium roared with approval every time he made a crucial move, and Aurora could feel the tension in the air as the game reached its climax.
As the final whistle blew, the stadium erupted in jubilation. The Chudley Cannons had secured their place in the finals, and Oliver was swarmed by teammates and fans alike. Aurora stood up, clapping and cheering, her heart swelling with pride for Oliver’s incredible performance. Yet, amidst the celebration, she couldn’t shake the underlying anxiety that had been growing.
Oliver’s fame had brought with it a flurry of media attention, and Aurora had noticed an increase in intrusive questions and speculation about his love life. The reporters seemed more interested in their private lives than in the game itself, adding an extra layer of pressure.
When Oliver finally made his way over to where Aurora was standing, he looked both elated and exhausted. His face was flushed with victory, and his eyes sparkled with the thrill of the win. He wrapped her in a tight embrace, lifting her off her feet in a jubilant hug.
“You did it!” Aurora exclaimed, her voice filled with excitement and relief. “You were amazing out there!”
Oliver grinned, his eyes shining with happiness. “We did it. I couldn’t have done it without the support from everyone, especially you.”
As they made their way out of the stadium, the crowd’s cheers and chants still echoing in their ears, Aurora felt a renewed sense of determination. She knew that the upcoming final would be even more intense, both on and off the pitch. She was resolved to stand by Oliver’s side, to be his source of strength amidst the media frenzy, and to support him through every challenge.
Back at their apartment, they ate their takeout slowly and quietly, Oliver clearly tired from the game. The soft hum of the refrigerator and the occasional clink of utensils on plates were the only sounds breaking the silence. Oliver seemed lost in thought as he methodically picked at his food, his exhaustion evident in the way he moved.
“I want to go public,” he said suddenly, his voice barely above a whisper, but his tone was resolute. He spoke the sentence and then continued eating like he had said nothing at all, his gaze fixed on his plate.
Aurora’s voice was soft but earnest. “If we can just wait until after the Quidditch finals, that’s all I ask. It will take some of the stress off of the whole thing. We’ll be able to handle it better without the added pressure of the games.”
Oliver’s eyes softened, and he nodded slowly. “I understand. It’s important to me that you’re comfortable with this too. I just don’t want to keep hiding us anymore.”
Aurora reached across the table, gently touching his hand. “We’ll do it together. But let’s make sure it’s right for us, not just something we rush into because of external pressures. After the finals, we’ll find the right moment.”
Oliver squeezed her hand in return, a small smile tugging at his lips. “Alright, we’ll wait. But thank you for understanding. It means a lot.”
They resumed their meal, the conversation flowing more easily now, their decision made with mutual respect and understanding. The silence between them was more comfortable, filled with the promise of their future together.