Song Of The Guardians

Show Stopper

Hermione came out of her bathroom wrapped in a towel after her shower. She sat down on her bed, her eyes fixed on her trembling hands. Harry's birthday celebration was that evening and she would have to put on a believable performance. She had spent her day in her rooms, trying to remain as calm as possible. She wasn't sure how she would get through this.

Andy entered her bedroom as if he owned it and immediately swept her up in a hug. "You're going to be amazing," he assured her. "Now let's get you dolled up."

Without another word, Andy got to work. He jerked the towel from her body, ignoring her startled gasp. He got her dressed and did her hair and make up carefully, determined to do his part in making Hermione feel confident in herself. When he was finished, he nudged Hermione toward her mirror with a satisfied smile.

Hermione examined her appearance in amazement. Andy had tamed her curly hair into soft waves and he had lightened the color a bit. Her eyelids were now smokey gray and her eyelashes looked long and full. Her cheeks were rosy and her lips were dusky pink and shimmering. She was wearing tight blue jeans that accentuated her hips. Her top was made of shimmering dark blue fabric that clung to her lush curves enticingly. "Wow," Hermione said softly. "I look sexy."

"That was my goal," Andy said smugly. "Now for the shoes." He helped Hermione get into a pair of high heeled black boots that went over her jeans, up her calves and stopped a few inches below her knees. He had kindly used some cushioning charms to protect her feet. He looked her over carefully, pleased with the results. "They won't know what hit them," he told her with a wicked grin.

#$

The Ministry had set up the celebration at an old camp ground, using spells to keep muggles away. A massive stage had been set up along with a dance floor. There were tables laden with amazing foods and colorful decorations everywhere.

Severus was eyeing the garish decorations with distaste. Harry chuckled and said "My thoughts exactly."

To start the celebration, the Minister of Magic, Kingsley Shacklebolt, made a brief speech. Harry was urged to the stage to say a few words as well. Once he'd finished, he welcomed everyone to enjoy the festivities. There were games for the children and many people took to the dance floor as the music began to play.

"You were wonderful," Ginny said, kissing Harry's cheek affectionately. She looked toward the stage with a slight frown. "How long before they go on?"

"Not long," Harry said, running his fingers through his messy hair. "Andy's going over all the details with them. You will stay near your family," he reminded her sternly.

Ginny nodded, wanting to help the other Guardians, but knowing she had to stay with the baby. Harry wouldn't be able to focus on the task at hand without knowing that she had James safe.

"I don't like this Harry," Ron said anxiously. "Luna has had an awful headache all day and she says this is really dangerous."

"It'll be fine," Harry said, feeling much less confident than he sounded.

Severus was standing nearby wearing his customary scowl and his hands were clenched into tight fists. Draco noticed this and moved a little closer. Severus met his eyes briefly before looking away. "This is idiotic," he drawled.

"Of course," Draco responded with a shrug. "But there is a ridiculous number of Gryffindors in our group. We should have expected something like this sooner." He paused and added "She'll be fine. We'll be there to save her."

Severus was saved from making a response when his attention was drawn to the stage. The curtain had been drawn back to reveal Andy, dressed in dark blue jeans and a black dress shirt that was unbuttoned to the middle of his chest. Severus rolled his eyes when he heard catcalls and whistles coming from many of the women in the audience.