Friends? Fred Weasley x OC

CHAPTER TWENTY NINE

Chapter twenty nine

A few weeks had passed since Amelia's successful potions presentation, and now, the castle grounds were awash in the colors of late October, leaves of crimson and gold scattered around Hogwarts. As the days grew shorter and the evenings chillier, Amelia's excitement grew with each passing day, not only because Halloween was nearing but also because it marked her birthday. Being born on Halloween had always given her an added thrill—this year was even more special because she would be turning 18, and as the oldest in her friend group, she wanted this year's celebration to be one to remember.

The days leading up to her birthday were packed with planning and whispered excitement between her, Fred, and Leora. The trio had been working together on every detail, from decorations to music, and they wanted everything to be perfect. Their plans were set on hosting a lively, unforgettable gathering in the Gryffindor common room after the Halloween feast. The room would be transformed with enchanted spider webs that shimmered in shades of orange and purple, floating candles with a flicker of green flames, and bewitched bats flapping softly overhead. Each of them had a role in making the evening exceptional: Leora was handling the decorations, Fred was working on the entertainment, and Amelia herself had taken charge of organizing the food, which included an assortment of her favorite sweets and drinks.

As they discussed plans in the common room one evening, Amelia shared her vision with her friends. "I can't believe it's actually happening—my 18th birthday, and on Halloween!" she said, smiling as she imagined the party. "I want everyone to really feel like they're stepping into a magical Halloween world. Fred, did you manage to convince the house-elves to make the treacle tarts with pumpkin spice?" Fred grinned, nodding. "Of course! They were happy to oblige. And I may have convinced them to whip up a few extra cauldron cakes with a surprise filling—let's just say it'll be a sweet experience," he winked. Leora laughed. "Only you, Fred, would find a way to turn a dessert into an adventure. But honestly, Amelia, this is going to be amazing! I've never seen the common room look anything like what we're planning."

Amelia leaned forward, excitement bright in her eyes. "I want everyone to dress up and just enjoy themselves. Halloween was already magical here, but with all of us celebrating together and all these fun details, it's going to feel like our own little world."

As the date drew closer, she couldn't help but feel a bit sentimental about turning 18. It marked a transition, a sense of moving closer to her future outside Hogwarts, yet still holding tight to the memories she was making. She shared these feelings one evening with Hermione as they were getting ready for bed. "Do you ever think about how much things will change after this year?" Amelia asked her sister thoughtfully. Hermione nodded, her eyes softening. "All the time. But that's what makes this year so special. And I think celebrating your birthday like this—really going all out—is exactly what we need. Plus, this way, you'll be sending your Hogwarts years off with style!" She smiled, giving Amelia's hand a reassuring squeeze.

Amelia walked into the Great Hall, her arms full of neatly prepared invitations decorated with tiny golden pumpkins and enchanted bats that fluttered gently on the paper. She moved gracefully from table to table, her warm, genuine smile drawing attention as she handed out her invitations with cheerful greetings.

As she approached the Slytherin table, her steps slowed slightly. She knew inviting them might surprise a few people, but Amelia didn't want anyone left out of her birthday celebrations—besides, she had friends there too, and she was determined to make this Halloween birthday unforgettable. Taking a breath, she flashed a sweet smile as she greeted them with a cheerful, "Hey, guys!"

Lorenzo, always friendly, was the first to smile back. "Amelia, what brings you over here?" he asked, looking curiously at the invitations in her hands. She handed him one with a nod. "Well, I'm throwing a party for my birthday on Halloween, and I'd love it if you guys could come! It's going to be in the Gryffindor common room, so bring your best costumes!" Blaise took his invite, raising an eyebrow as he scanned the golden pumpkins that glittered across the invitation. "Halloween, huh? Not a bad night for a party." He flashed her a mischievous smirk, clearly intrigued. "Count me in."