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Valentine’s Day was Romilda Vane’s favourite day; sadly, she felt she couldn’t participate.
After returning to Hogwarts post-war, despite having fought in the Battle, old rumours resurfaced. The love-potioned debacle was still a hot gossip, and this reputation left her without a date for the upcoming Valentine's weekend.
While everyone else seemed paired up and excited, Romilda felt left out.
“My girlfriend is in France, so I’ll be here.” Bethany Adkins, her best friend, tried to cheer her up.
“Yeah, but you still have a valentine.”
“Oh, don’t mop about this; let’s walk a bit. Weather is nice.”
This was when they stumbled upon Ron Weasley clumsily cutting flowers with a spell.
Watching the poor wilts in his hand, Romilda said, “If you’re giving them to someone, you shouldn’t crush them in your hand.”
Blue eyes looked up with a frown. "Oh well, that’s a loss, innit? How’s a bloke supposed to get flowers now? This is shite,” he eyed the flimsy stalks in his hand, and his shoulders dropped, “Never mind, d’you know where I can get heart decorations, something Valentine-themed?"
“Planning something special?” Romilda asked.
“Yeah, for my girlfriend.” Ron’s ears pinkened. “Thought it would be nice.”
“A romantic picnic? That’s so sweet!”
The tall ginger shrugged, “Hope so. If I can pull it off.”
“I have lots of valentine themed stuff.” A thought just occurred to her, “Hey, I can help!”
Beth chimed in, “We can help!”
Ron pursed his lips, “I appreciate it, but I want it to be… from me?”
Romilda quickly proposed a trade. “How about this? You give us some Quidditch coaching in return. Beth’s been wanting to try out for Keeper.”
Beth shot Romilda a grateful smile. Ron tilted his head momentarily before extending a freckled hand, “Quidditch for a romantic setup? Deal.”
The chosen spot was a secluded hillside near the library, offering a picturesque castle view. Romilda and Beth transformed it into a romantic haven with fairy lights, a white rug, plush pink pillows in varying tones, cute balloons, and blossoms.
“Quickly, I can see them coming!”
They hid behind a ledge and watched as the anticipated duo approached the spot. Ron led, hair combed and wearing an olive shirt. Hermione’s eyes were covered. She wore a pink floral dress with her hair loosely plaited. When he revealed it, Hermione gasped in delight.
“Oh, it’s beautiful!”
“Had a little help." Ron smiled. “Happy Valentine’s Day, sweetheart.”
She turned to him, and they both shared a tender kiss.
“Should we go now?” Beth whispered.
“Not yet, I want to make sure everything’s perfect,” Romilda murmured; maybe she was a little invested in the happy couple, sue her.
They settled down to enjoy their picnic. Romilda and Beth, with Noddy, the house elf’s help, prepared the food. The couple chatted and stared into each other's eyes.
Near the drinks, a pink music box caught Ron’s eye. When he opened it, a troll ballerina in pink attire popped out and began twirling to a melodious tune.
Both Ron and Hermione froze at first.
Romilda’s heart sank—had she mucked it up?
But then, laughter erupted from the couple, falling into each other and talking enigmatically. Romilda exchanged a puzzled but amused look with Beth. A private joke?
Ron waved his wand; the music box hovered in the air. He pulled Hermione to sway in an embrace beneath it.
Beth nudged Romilda, grinning, "Looks like our job here is done."
“Yeah.” At least romance was alive for someone.
Walking back to the castle, Beth draped an arm around Romilda's shoulders. "Happy Valentine’s Day, Romilda."
Romilda smiled, leaning against Beth’s, "Happy Valentine’s Day, Beth."
