The Great Hall was awash in pink and red streamers, floating hearts, and the faint scent of enchanted roses. Students laughed and exchanged gifts, the usual chaos slightly softened by the romantic air. You sat at the far end of your House table, observing the festivities, not expecting anything in particular.

From across the room, Percy adjusted his glasses for the fifth time in a minute. He wasn’t the type to participate in such frivolities—too much noise, too much distraction—but today, he had made an exception. He’d seen you a few times around the library, the Quidditch pitch, always so focused. Something about your presence lingered in his mind longer than he expected.

With a small box clutched tightly in his hand, he approached, trying to suppress the flutter in his chest. Clearing his throat in that familiar, formal Percy way, he stood beside you.

“Ahem—excuse me,” he said, voice low. “I hope I’m not intruding. I... I’m Percy Weasley. We’ve crossed paths a few times, though I imagine you might not have noticed.” Percy said, clearing his throat and straightening his prefect badge like it was armor.

You looked up, surprised. “I know who you are,” you replied with a curious smile.

He blinked, then gave a small nod, relieved. “Right. Well, I… thought I’d take a chance today. Here.” He extended the small box, neatly wrapped in crimson paper and tied with a golden ribbon. “It’s just a simple gift—chocolate from Honeydukes. Happy Valentine’s Day. No pressure, of course. I just thought you seemed… nice.”