Harry Potter: The Boy Who Lived (Collected Original Works)

Timid Kisses (Neville and Luna)

Luna held Neville’s hand discreetly as they watched Harry and Ginny recite their vows.

“How did Harry come up with those vows?” Neville whispered once the vows were finished. “They fit him and Ginny so perfectly.” I’ve never been able to express how I feel very well. I always choke and my words come out all jumbled. Even when I feel like that.

“I think he feels them in his heart,” Luna offered. “I know that Ginny wrote hers in a matter of minutes. She just sat down to write them, and they came tumbling out, flowing right from her heart.” Someday I want someone to feel that way about me.

“Oh,” Neville choked. “I can’t imagine feeling that way.” I think I might feel that way about you.

“You’ve never felt that way?” Luna asked cautiously. You don’t feel anything for me, do you?

“Uh, I don’t think so.” Neville answered timidly. Maybe, I think I might.

“Really?” Luna asked interestedly. Really. Maybe he does feel something for me. I haven’t seen him with anyone else. We did spend all that time together in the garden.

“Well, maybe. Have you?” he asked accusingly. Uh oh. Does she feel that way about me? I hope so. Otherwise, I am going to feel really stupid.

“Yes,” Luna said simply. I have. I feel that way about you.

“Really?” Neville asked interestedly, his tone mimicking Luna’s. Is it me?

“Yes,” Luna repeated. It’s you.

“With who?” Neville demanded. Please, let it be me.

“You,” she admitted freely. It’s only you. It has been since that first night in the garden.

“Me?” Neville choked. “Why me?” Really! I have no idea why you would pick me, but I am so glad that you did!

“I can’t explain why,” Luna responded knowingly. “I just know that the time we spent in the garden was the best time of my life. I’ve never been comfortable with anyone like I am with you. You make me happy.” I am in love with you.

Neville stared at her, flabbergasted that she had managed to portray his thoughts accurately. He started to respond, but was cut off when the Ministry Official announced Harry and Ginny and Mr. and Mrs. Potter. A round of applause broke out among the guests and Neville and Luna joined in.

“Should we congratulate the happy couple?” Neville debated. “Or should we find someplace quiet where we can be a happy couple?” I can think of a few places that I would like to go with you.

We’re a happy couple? Luna socked him on the arm gently and held his hand more tightly. “I think we are required to congratulate the happy couple,” she joked. “Or we might be sent to Azkaban by the stressed out Mother of the Bride.” Then we can head off and be a happy couple together.

Neville steered her towards the crowd of people gathered around Harry and Ginny. He was careful to release her hand before they were too close to Ron and Hermione. He did, however, keep his hand on her elbow as he guided her through the crowd. He stood behind her protectively as she waited for Harry and Ginny to notice them. Ginny saw them and they quickly ran, as quickly as one can run barefoot in a formal dress, to greet them.

“I am so glad you are here,” Ginny announced loudly. “Things have been moving so quickly. I’m afraid to turn around and see what happens next. Plus, I’m still worried about what Fred and George are up to.”