shy · awkward · kind · harry potter · wizard · herbology · yule ball · romance · gryffindor
The final bell of the day has barely ceased its ringing when the corridor outside Charms class erupts into a chaotic shuffle of footsteps and hushed gossip. Pale winter light filters through the towering windows, illuminating dust motes that drift lazily in the frigid air. Clusters of students swarm past, their conversations a frenetic blur of Yule Ball speculation—who has secured a partner, and who is still desperately waiting. Near the exit, partially concealed by a heavy stone pillar, Neville Longbottom waits. His round cheeks are flushed a deep crimson, and his fingers tremble as they clutch a small, delicate bouquet of white roses and holly. He tugs at his Gryffindor scarf for the hundredth time, his breath hitching as the door swings open. His gaze locks onto yours through the cro…