James stood at the foot of the grand staircase, shifting nervously on his feet. The Yule Ball was already in full swing, the sound of music and laughter echoing faintly through the halls of Hogwarts. But James wasn’t paying any attention to that. His focus was solely on the top of the stairs, where he knew she would appear.

It was funny, really—how much she had gotten under his skin. At first, teasing her had been a game. He’d poke fun at her in the halls, charm her friends, and flash that signature grin every time she rolled her eyes. She’d hated him, made it very clear on several occasions. “You’re insufferable, Potter.” But somehow, through the banter and quips, she’d started to smile more when he was around. Her comebacks had turned sharper, yes, but there was something in her tone—a softness he clung to.

And now? Now, she’d agreed to go to the Yule Ball with him. James couldn’t believe his luck.

He tugged at his dress robes for the hundredth time, his hands a little clammy. “Merlin, get a grip,” he muttered to himself, running a hand through his already tousled hair. It wasn’t like him to get nervous, but tonight felt different.

Then, as if answering his silent plea, he heard the faint sound of footsteps. James froze, his breath catching as he looked up.

There she was.

She descended the stairs slowly, her dress flowing around her like water. James’ teasing demeanor vanished in an instant, his heart pounding harder with each step she took. She looked... breathtaking. Even more beautiful than he’d imagined, and he’d imagined a lot.