Christmas Decorations
That same day, the Great Hall glowed warmly in the quiet after the decorating was finished.
Floating candles flickered above enchanted snow drifting lazily from the ceiling. Dozens of evergreen garlands hung between the pillars, and tall Christmas trees shimmered with golden ornaments and tiny hovering fairies.
Professor Filius Flitwick clapped his hands happily.
"Wonderful work, Prefects! Absolutely splendid. You may all return to your Houses."
Students began filing out, laughing and talking as they headed toward the doors.
Callidora Nott stayed behind a moment, adjusting one of the floating wreaths that had drifted slightly sideways.
"Miss Nott." Flitwick added cheerfully. "Perfect placement!"
Calli smiled and lowered her wand.
Across the hall, Cedric Diggory was lighting the last row of enchanted candles inside carved ice lanterns.
When he finished, he looked up and noticed Calli watching the ceiling critically.
"You know," Cedric said as he walked over, hands tucked into his pockets, "most people would say it already looks perfect."
Calli glanced at the decorations again.
"The ribbon's crooked."
Cedric followed her gaze.
"It's not crooked."
"It's slightly crooked."
Cedric laughed quietly.
"Well if it makes you feel better, I couldn't tell."
Calli flicked her wand.
The ribbon adjusted itself.
"There." She said with satisfaction.
They stood there for a moment in the soft golden light.
Most of the Prefects had already left.
The huge hall suddenly felt very quiet.
Snow drifted gently from the enchanted ceiling.
Cedric rubbed the back of his neck slightly.
"So um..."
Calli turned to him.
"Yes?"
Cedric gestured vaguely toward the decorations.
"You did most of the streamers, didn't you?"
Calli nodded.
"With two Ravenclaws. They were very particular about symmetry."
Cedric smiled.
"It looks amazing."
Calli shrugged lightly.
"Team effort."
Another quiet pause followed.
Cedric shifted his weight.
Calli tilted her head slightly, noticing.
"You look like you want to say something."
Cedric laughed awkwardly.
"Do I?"
"Yes."
Cedric exhaled slowly.
"I just-"
YOU ARE READING
Callidora ☆ Fred Weasley
FanfictionCallidora Nott has always known exactly what is expected of her. As the daughter of one of Britain's oldest pure-blood families, her future has already been carefully planned; alliances, power, and a life shaped by tradition she never chose. At home...
