After the war, life slowly started to regain some sense of normalcy. You had found your way to a place that felt like home—working with George at Weasleys' Wizard Wheezes. The shop was buzzing with energy as usual, and every day was filled with laughter, new pranks, and the occasional disaster when an experiment didn’t go as planned. But, for the most part, you were content. George had become like family, helping you heal after the chaos that had been the war.

But there was something else that kept happening, something you couldn’t quite ignore. Ron. He seemed to show up at the shop almost every day, and it was always when you were working at the counter, mixing potions, or organizing the newest products. He’d enter, as casual as ever, with a smile that didn’t quite reach his eyes. He’d say the usual, "Just picking up a few things," or "Wanted to check out the latest products." But you knew better.

At first, George had raised an eyebrow, but didn’t question it. After all, it wasn’t unusual for Ron to drop by. But after the tenth time that week, George finally spoke up, his grin wide.

—"You sure that’s all he’s after?" George asked, his voice teasing.

You glanced up at Ron, who was currently pretending to be very interested in a new joke item, but you knew he was listening.

—"Probably," you said, though you couldn’t hide the small, knowing smile that crept onto your face.

George chuckled.

—"Right. Well, don’t say I didn’t warn you. He’s not fooling anyone."

You didn’t know what had changed, or when it had happened. But over the past few months, Ron’s visits had become more frequent, and more noticeable. It wasn’t just about products anymore—it was about him looking for an excuse to talk to you. To be near you.

One day, while working behind the counter, you caught his gaze. There was a tension there, something unspoken. And for a moment, you wondered if he was starting to realize it too.

That evening, after the shop had closed, you were cleaning up when George shot you a sideways glance.

—"Maybe you should ask Ron what he really wants," George said casually, his smirk giving away that he knew exactly what was going on.

You didn’t say anything right away, but that night, when Ron came in to visit again, you were ready. You watched him approach, waiting for him to say something other than the usual. And just like that, he did.

—"I... I was hoping we could talk," Ron said, looking suddenly unsure of himself.