Moonlit Bonds: The Tale of Moony and Snowy

Chapter 196 - The Perfect Plan

With Valentine's Day behind them and the N.E.W.T. preparations in full swing, the days at Hogwarts were filled with a mix of academic rigor and moments of shared camaraderie. Despite the busy schedule, Remus's mind frequently wandered to Eliza and the future he envisioned with her. The thought of proposing had taken root in his heart, and he knew the first step was to find the perfect ring.

One crisp Saturday morning, as the Marauders sat around their usual spot in the Gryffindor common room, Remus discreetly caught James's eye. James, already aware of Remus's intentions, nodded slightly, understanding the silent request.

"Hey, Prongs," Remus began casually, "fancy a trip to Hogsmeade? I need to pick up a few things, and I could use some company."

James grinned, catching on immediately. "Sure, Moony. Could use a break from all this studying anyway."

Sirius, sprawled on the couch with a Quidditch magazine, glanced up. "What're you two planning now?"

"Just a quick trip to Hogsmeade," Remus replied smoothly. "Need to clear my head."

Sirius nodded, not suspecting a thing. "Bring me back some Butterbeer, will you?"

"Will do," James said with a chuckle as he and Remus headed towards the portrait hole.

As they walked through the bustling village, Remus's nerves began to show. "James, I'm really nervous about this. What if Sirius doesn't think I'm good enough for Eliza?"

James clapped a reassuring hand on his friend's shoulder. "Moony, Sirius thinks the world of you. You've been there for Eliza through everything. He'll see that you're the best choice for her."

They made their way to a small jewelry shop nestled between Honeydukes and Zonko's. The bell above the door tinkled as they entered, and an elderly witch behind the counter greeted them warmly.

"Good morning, dears. How can I help you today?"

Remus glanced at James for support before speaking. "I'm looking for an engagement ring."

The witch's eyes sparkled with understanding. "Ah, a special occasion indeed. Come, let me show you our selection."

They spent the next hour examining various rings, each one more beautiful than the last. James offered his opinions, occasionally throwing in a joke to lighten the mood.

"This one's nice, but it's nothing compared to Eliza's sparkle," James quipped, holding up a ring with a small, delicate diamond.

Remus smiled appreciatively. "I want something that reflects her strength and beauty."

Finally, they found the perfect ring-a simple yet elegant piece with a sapphire at its center, surrounded by small, twinkling diamonds. It was timeless and understated, much like Eliza herself.

"This is it," Remus said with certainty. "This is the one."

James nodded in agreement. "It's perfect, Moony. She'll love it."

With the ring safely tucked away in his pocket, Remus felt a surge of excitement mixed with nerves. "I'll ask Sirius for his blessing soon."

"Take your time," James advised as they left the shop. "You'll know when the moment's right."

As they made their way back to Hogwarts, Remus couldn't help but imagine the future he wanted to build with Eliza. Her laughter, her strength, her unwavering support-they were the foundation of the life he dreamed of. And with the ring in his pocket, that dream felt closer than ever.

Back at the castle, Remus and James rejoined their friends in the common room. Eliza was deep in conversation with Lily, discussing their Potions assignment, while Sirius and Peter were engaged in a heated game of wizard chess.

"How was Hogsmeade?" Sirius asked without looking up from the board.

"Productive," Remus replied, catching James's grin. "We've got your Butterbeer, by the way."

Sirius finally looked up, smiling. "You're a lifesaver, Moony."

As the evening wore on, Remus kept glancing at Sirius, wondering when would be the right time to ask for his blessing. But for now, he decided to wait for a moment when they could talk alone, away from the distractions of their friends and the common room.

For now, the future awaited, filled with possibilities and the promise of a life together with Eliza. Remus was determined to take it one step at a time, with the support of his friends and the love of his life guiding him forward.