Second Chance || Harry Potter x Reader

₊˚.༄ | Lessons and Decisions

Y/N's POV
∞༺♥༻✧

The excitement of the upcoming Yule Ball was palpable throughout Hogwarts. Students were bustling about, discussing dates, outfits, and the festivities that awaited. As I woke up the next day, the anticipation hung heavy in the air, and I felt a mix of excitement and dread. Today was the day for dance lessons, and I had to face my fellow Ravenclaws once again.

I got dressed and headed to the common room, where I found a few of my housemates discussing their dance partners. Anthony Goldstein, who had danced with me during our last lesson, gave me a friendly nod. I managed a small smile in return, but my mind was elsewhere. I couldn't stop thinking about the strange encounters I'd had recently, the whispers from Nagini that kept me awake at night, and the weight of the unbreakable vow that loomed over me.

As we made our way to the Charms classroom, where Professor Flitwick was waiting to instruct us, I noticed Harry and Ron walking ahead, deep in conversation. I sighed, knowing I had to focus on the task at hand and not let my thoughts wander.

"Alright, everyone, pair up!" Professor Flitwick called out as we entered the room. "Today, we'll be practicing the waltz."

I looked around, hoping to find a partner quickly. As usual, most of the students had already paired off, leaving me standing alone. Just as I was about to give up, Anthony approached me.

"Hey, Y/N," he said with a kind smile. "Want to be my partner again?"

"Sure, Anthony," I replied, grateful for his company.

We took our positions and began practicing the steps Flitwick demonstrated. Anthony was a good dancer, and he made me feel at ease. As we danced, I tried to push aside the thoughts of Nagini and focus on the present moment.

"How are you holding up?" Anthony asked quietly as we danced.

I shrugged, trying to keep my tone light. "As well as can be expected, I guess. The Yule Ball is a bit overwhelming."

He nodded in understanding. "It is. But it's also a chance to have some fun. You deserve that, Y/N."

After the lesson, I decided to take a walk around the castle to clear my head. I wandered through the corridors, lost in thought, when I heard familiar voices coming from around the corner. Curious, I approached quietly and peeked around to see Harry and Ron talking.

"She's nice, sweet, and really pretty," Harry was saying. "I just don't understand why no one talks to her."

Ron shrugged. "People can be cruel, mate. But if you think she's worth it, maybe you should ask her to the ball."

I felt a lump form in my throat as I listened. Could Harry really be talking about me? I quickly backed away, not wanting to eavesdrop any longer. My mind was racing as I made my way to the Great Hall for lunch.

As I sat down at the Ravenclaw table, I couldn't help but glance over at the Gryffindor table, where Harry was sitting with his friends. He seemed deep in thought, his gaze occasionally drifting towards me. I quickly looked away, focusing on my meal. Despite my efforts to blend in, I could feel the eyes of my housemates on me, their whispers and glances making me feel more isolated than ever.

After lunch, I decided to visit the library to catch up on some studying. As I walked through the corridors, I couldn't shake the feeling of being watched. It was as if the walls of Hogwarts held secrets that were just out of reach, waiting to be uncovered.

When I reached the library, I found a quiet corner and settled down with my books. The silence was comforting, allowing me to lose myself in my studies. But my peace was soon interrupted by the arrival of Severus Snape.