The Right by Parks and Fiction Chapter 30 The second floor of
Pansy's shop was absolutely unrecognisable.
Every space other than the carefully curated set where the
photographers were testing lighting was taken up by hair
and makeup stations, racks of clothes, privacy screens or
tables sagging with food and beverages.
In addition to 26 DA members, there were over a dozen magazine
staff members between Marjorie Orson and the other producers,
photographers and hair and makeup team.
Daphne ruled the latter with an iron fist.
She'd already taken over Katie Bell's makeup after one of the
poor witches tried to use the wrong eyeliner on her.
While he wasn't technically part of the shoot, the producers had
asked for Draco's presents. Pansy and Draco both knew
exactly what that meant. Even though it wasn't part of
her Commission, Pansy designed an outfit for him to perfectly
compliment Hermione's for the inevitable photographs of the
Gryffindor, Muggleborn, Golden Girl, and the Slither in pure
blood air. The last two weeks had been the
busiest of her career. Pansy had to close the shop to
any appointments that weren't fittings for the photo shoot.
Information about the shoot had leaked and her schedule was
booked into mid June already. Over the course of the two
weeks, she'd managed to have at least one fitting with every
single DA member and finished all their outfits except one.
She examined Ginny's second outfit now, marking the places
she needed to fix. It was passable as it was, but
she wasn't building a business off passable, not for someone
who was going to be splattered across the pages of this article
as much as Ginny Weasley. Potter, All right, should be
easy enough. Pansy said.
You can change back into the first outfit.
Ginny rolled her eyes. I'm sorry we couldn't make
something work to get you in for a fitting.
Pansy had sent a dozen owls to Ginny, even offering to come to
her home any evening. The only response was that
Ginny's schedule was booked all those times.
But please see the attached measurements from Madam Malkins.
The day she received that letter, she stormed across the
street straight to Weasleys Wizard Wheezes.
They hadn't even opened for the day, but the door was unlocked,
so she let herself in anyway. Ron, for whatever reason, was
there with George. Having two Weasleys to compare
would actually be to her advantage.
Which of you 2 have her closest to your sister?
They both stared at her as if she'd gone insane, but
thankfully Angelina was there. Mourns the Orangist of the
bunch, but George and Ginny are nearly identical.
Perfect. She forced the two of them into
a bright window and started holding up fabric swatches.
Ron glanced at his brother and back at her.
Can I ask what's going on or are we just going with it?
Pansy immediately rejected the first Swatch and flipped on to
the next. The producers want you all in
house colours for next week. For people who promised her full
creative control, they had been rather pushy about a few things.
Nice, Ron said. Pansy rejected the two choices.
Not when I have 3 redheads in red, one of whom is part of the
Golden Trio and the other married to the Chosen One.
She said. You are going to be all over
that spread and I'm not going to have you clashing with my
clothes. I know my fitting is tomorrow,
but can you please promise me that photos of me in a shapeless
bag won't be in every home in Britain?
Angelina asked. The pathetic excuse for what
passed his maternity clothes in the wizarding world was the bane
of Pansy's existence. Muggles had so many better
options that flattered figures, even emphasising baby bumps.
Angelina was probably daring enough to wear one of the body
fitting styles that were currently so popular in the
muggle world, but even a dress with a fitted bodice and an
empire waist that flowed into a loose skirt would look better
than what she currently had on. Don't worry, I have ideas.
Pansy was down to her last 6 red swatches.
They were getting closer, but still not right.
Angelina brightened. Like 1 noise dress for the photo
shoot ideas or rest of my pregnancy ideas?
She looked away from the swatches to smirk at her.
Both. She beamed.
You'll have to wait for me to start the rest of the wardrobe
until after the shoot. Pansy said.
Your mother-in-law might not approve of some of them.
It was George's turn to smirk. No, I like the sound of that.
Pansy finally settled on a shade closer to burgundy than a true
Gryffindor red. The producers approved it with
relatively little fuss, especially when she went with
cobalt blue for the Ravenclaws and dark golden yellow for the
Hufflepuffs. Luckily, Angelina was right
about George and Ginny's hair. The shade looked amazing with
Ginny's complexion and complimented her hair rather
than clashing with it. Even though Ginny had no say in
the dress, thanks to her own refusal to meet with Pansy, she
tried to design something she thought Ginny would like based
on photos of her previous fashion choices.
The long sleeve fitted dress with a mock neck hugged her
curves and dropped to her knees. Navy piping at the waist cuffs
and seams and running down the skirt on each of her thighs
complemented the burgundy and Navy tartan fabric.
It was, if Pansy said so herself, admittedly gorgeous
Ginny didn't say anything about her feelings towards the dress
one way or another, which Pansy took as a glowing compliment
from her. Potter and even the Weasel both
booked appointments with her, so she didn't understand what Ginny
was still protesting. Both had even apologised and
seemed truly genuine about it for what happened the last time
they were at her shop. Potter had even gone so far as
to awkwardly tell her that he was glad she was involved in the
project. Fucking Gryffindors were
exhausting. Some days it can be so
disappointing when someone books up their schedule for no good
reason, can't it? Jinny asked, her voice sickly
sweet with patronisation. Pansy swallowed back what she
actually wanted to say and forced to smile.
Well, if your schedule does ever open up and you want me to do an
outfit for you, let Daphne know and I'll make an opening.
She scoffed. Save it for the cameras,
Parkinson. Long bottom.
Her smile turned patronising. Right.
Her gaze flicked across the room where Neville was currently
chatting with Hannah Abbott. He had his hands in his pockets,
casually leaning up against the wall.
Hannah waved her hands as she told her story, while Neville
listened with a small, fond smile on his face.
The kind that could mean nothing or everything.
Pansy pulled her gaze away in time for Jinny to flash her a
smirk before she walked back behind her screen to change back
into outfit one, which luckily needed no altering.
Pansy marched off, checking everyone's outfits as the
producers lined them up. Potter realised what was
happening first. It's the original Order of the
Phoenix. He looked around, a small smile
taking over his face. Whose idea was that, Pansies?
Orson said. Ron and George, we have you.
Where the Pruitt brothers stood, no one moved.
Everyone was too busy gaping at her.
It had seemed fitting, since the DA was largely inspired by the
original order, which had been full of so many of their family
members. When she'd discussed the idea
with Neville, he'd loved it, even allowed her to borrow a
number of his dad's jumpers to dress people.
He was wearing the exact 1 Frank wore for the original photo, a
grey and blue knit that was one of her favourites from the
collection. Did you get the idea from the
photograph you stole from Harry after you turned it over to
Umbridge? Ginny asked.
Harry got that photo from his godfather and would like it
back. Any idea what happened to it?
Her smile and tone were sweet, but Pansy heard the edge
underneath. Everyone else in the room could
too, especially the producers and Marjorie, who watched with
interest. This was what they wanted,
beyond just the exclusivity contract she had with Hermione.
Drama, intrigue. Pansy wasn't going to be the one
to give it to them. She turned to Potter.
I'm sorry for the loss of that picture, she said.
I know it won't make up for the one your godfather gave you, but
Alice Longbottom has multiple copies of the photograph.
I'll make sure one is sent to you by the end of the day, as
well as any other she has of your parents or Sirius.
Augusta had mentioned gifting some to Hagrid to give to Potter
years ago, but Pansy didn't know how many or which ones.
The look on Potter's face reminded her of Neville when his
Gran and Mcgonigal had reminisced about Frank and Alice
at Christmas, a heartbroken longing for whatever scraps of
information he could get about the people he only got to know
through photographs and stories. Are you in a position to give
away Alice Longbottom's photographs?
Ginny asked. Yeah, Neville said, his voice
firm. She is.
Potter glanced at him and then back at her.
Thank you, Pansy, he said. I really appreciate that.
She nodded and turned back to Orson, who waited a few
heartbeats to ensure there was no more drama to observe before
he returned to positioning everyone.
Most of the DA members had family they could stand for,
like Ron and George for their Pruitt uncles.
Others filled the gaps of people who were lost during the war
based on their physical appearance.
There was one position she'd fought the producers on that
they refused to budget because once all of the women had been
assigned to the most obvious positions, there was only one
blonde woman left. Alice Longbottom was blonde,
therefore Hannah Abbott stood in her place.
When the producer called her out.
Hannah turned to Pansy as if to check for permission first.
Pansy forced a smile. We thought it would fit because
you're both blonde. Neville gave Hannah an easy
smile as she walked over to stand next to him.
And like Frank and Alice, the 2 did not hold hands.
Terry Boot watched the two of them from where he stood with a
narrow eyed focus. Hey Potter.
Draco called. Before you left for Hogwarts,
did your Mughal schools ever teach you the story of Oedipus?
Dean Thomas, Justine Flinch, Fletchley, and Dennis Creevy all
started laughing. Hermione looked like she was
struggling not to join them. Potter flipped him a two finger
gesture, but Draco only laughed. Mr. Potter, we do run a family
friendly magazine. Orson called, though he was
smirking as well. We all know there's no relation,
but some men, myself, George, Ron and Neville included, fall
in love with women who don't happen to look like our mothers.
Draco said. Everyone who didn't know the
story of whatever muggle Draco was talking about had now caught
on and were laughing at Potter. Daphne flashed A smirk at Pansy.
Draco was being about as little as a freight train, but she
supposed around this brash lot and it was necessary.
She didn't need it, of course, not when in another year Neville
could come clean and go back to Hannah like she knew he wanted
and had wanted at this time last year.
Their body language gave very little away.
Ginny has darker hair and brown eyes, not green.
Potter said Draco smirk spread. You've put a lot of thought into
this. The lady doth protest too much,
me thinks just in flinch. Fletchley said.
Hermione burst into laughter before slapping a hand over her
mouth. I didn't get that reference,
Harry said. Hermione gasped.
You've never read Hamlet? And of course not, he said.
How many 11 year olds read Shakespeare?
Don't answer that, we know you did.
The flash of the bulb went off as they teased.
All right, let's keep this going.
Olson kept calling out different instructions as the cameras
flashed. Pansy slipped to the back to
alter Jenny's dress. So much for Madam Malkin's
perfect measurements. They were off in both the hips
and bust. She finished around the time the
photographer did and the shop was a flurry of activity again
as everyone changed into their second outfits.
These were where everyone had a chance to truly show off their
personality. Forcing everyone into house
colours felt trite, but at least they all chose unique looks.
A touch of Navy in every outfit tied it all together rather than
having a dozen conflicting patterns.
Pansy limited selections to solid colour or tartan, but the
resulting look was both cohesive and reminiscent of their school
days in Scotland. She was grateful the Muggle fall
fashion lines had just come out in February during the Big Four
fashion weeks, offering her all sorts of new inspirations.
Magical folk were used to layers, so the fall and winter
lines adapted the easiest to wizard styles, and the Prada
fall line had been particularly inspirational.
In the end, she'd never been more proud of the collection.
Designing 26 outfits that photographed well was
challenging enough as it was, but throwing in the vastly
different fashion preferences of George Weasley, Luna Lovegood
and Parvati Patil only added to it.
But as everyone milled about comparing their looks, she could
already tell the photos were going to be amazing.
The look on the magazine star's faces proved it.
Without speaking to the producers about it, she made a
black arm band for each of the fallen DA member.
George wore one for Fred, Dennis for Colin, and Pavati for
Lavender. The most ridiculous thing
insisted upon by the producers was that they wanted gold in
Harry, Ron, and Hermione's outfits.
The implication was an entire article of clothing in gold
fabric, but there was a reason they focused on words and not
aesthetics. Plus, Pansy knew both Hermione
and Potter would refuse to wear anything ostentatious, so she
settled for subtle nods. Potter wore a burgundy suit with
a Navy shirt. The double breasted suit coat
had gold buttons on it as his nod to the Golden Trio.
Ron's suit was Navy, but Pansy had him layer a Navy shirt and
burgundy jumper underneath his double breasted coat with gold
buttons. Hermione wore a Navy Tulip skirt
that ended just below her knees. Her burgundy surplus top had
Bishop's sleeves and was cinched at her waist with a gold belt.
Perched on a stool between her two best friends, Hermione was
absolutely glowing. She didn't need the flashy
golden dress the producers had wanted.
She's shone all on her own. Rather than reprint the same
things everybody knew, the interview was more about
relationships, about who had helped shape the three of them,
the bonds they formed that led to the creation of the DA, the
inspiration from Black and Lupin, and the generation
before. Marjorie pulled Neville, Luna,
and Ginny into the conversation for relevant parts, both where
they discussed the Battle of the Department of Mysteries and the
Battle of the Astronomy Tower. She didn't bring up the
Inquisitorial Squad or Draco's tasks.
Six year. While it should have been
reassuring, it only put Pansy Moore on edge about when the
inevitable questions would come next.
Marjorie focused on the infamous Horcrux hunt, how it tested
their bond, what the three of them faced.
The conversation turned to what it was like at Hogwarts that
year. What Neville, Ginny, and Luna
did to lead the DA. The ways they fought back
against the Carrows, how they hid and protected whoever they
could. Marjorie asked a few questions
about the battle, what everyone felt like when Harry returned to
Hogwarts, the conflict they have been preparing for since 5th
year, who used what spell Harry taught them and when.
You know who returned to the castle thinking he was
triumphant. That's not something any of us
are discussing today. Hermione said, cutting her off
with a polite but firm tone. Harry is alive and well and
Voldemort was defeated and that is what we prefer to focus on.
Marjorie accepted this with a quiet nod.
You and Ron Weasley dated for several months after the battle,
she said. The relationship itself began
drawing the battle correct. Our relationship began with
friendship our very first year at school, Hermione said.
For a while, we both believed it was blossoming into something
more, but despite our love for one another, it became clear
that it was just a deep platonic love.
Very clever to have Hermione handle that minefield.
It wasn't enough for Marjorie. Do you agree with that, Mister
Weasley? She could almost feel the
tension from the group. Jeannie pressed her fingers into
her temples, cringing. Minnie wasn't my first
girlfriend, but she was my first love.
Weasel said. The two exchanged a small smile.
And you don't forget that, especially after everything
we've been through together. He laughed once.
I mean, how hard should it be to keep a kid with glasses alive
for seven years? Potter smirked ruefully as
everyone laughed. I'm glad we dated because I
think a part of us would have always wondered what would have
happened between us if we hadn't.
He continued. But now we know that we're just
better off as friends, the best of friends, and that it's OK for
your first love not to be your true love.
Pansy's gaze flicked out to the crowd, she could see Neville's
face from her angle, but he was looking down at Hannah Abbott as
she stared up at him with a small smile.
Anything to add, Hermione? Marjorie asked.
Pansy turned her attention back to the Golden Trio.
Hermione beamed. Couldn't have said it better.
Marjorie turned the conversation to what it was like for them to
separate after the battle when Hermione went back for her 7th
year while Potter and Weasel went straight into aura
training. How the three of them stayed
close even during Hermione's mastery until they were all back
at the Ministry together. It was when she asked Potter and
Weasel if they hoped to remain partners until retirement that
things got interesting. Potter and Hermione turned to
Weasel, who deeply inhaled. Actually, I'll be retiring from
the DMLE at the end of May. None of the DA members looked
surprised by his announcement. After.
After everything I've been through.
Since first year, you know I'm ready to take a step back from
life and death situations, he said.
Lee has been George's partner for seven years, but he's ready
to move on to his own plans. I'm going to step on as George's
partner at Weasley's Wizard Wheezes.
That explained what he'd been doing at the shop last week.
And you, Harry? Marjorie asked.
Will you be getting a new partner or stepping away from
the DMLE as well? I'm staying in the department,
but I'll be taking a step back from active duty on a daily
basis. He said.
I will be teaching in the Aura training program, bringing us
full circle into your role in the DA.
He grinned. Hermione, any career updates for
you? I just received a promotion, she
said. I'm very eager to see where it
takes me and how I can continue working alongside the Wisengemot
to help make our society as just and equitable as it can be for
all. Pansy wanted to roll her eyes,
but she couldn't help but be at least a little bit proud of her.
All right, let's get a few pictures of the Potters.
Hermione and Ron slipped away. Potter beamed as Wieselt
strutted up to meet him. The photographers caught their
quick kiss before they started posing, looking every inch the
perfect Gryffindor power couple. They answered all of Marjorie's
questions with poise, coy when they needed to be, but had her
utterly wrapped around their fingers.
All right. Neville, Ginny and Luna next.
Luna's outfit had been the trickiest to get right, but
they'd settled on a cobalt a line dress with a Navy bolero
jacket and an elbow length bell sleeves.
The jacket was embellished to look like it was covered in
feathers, giving Leona an ethereal look that was perfect
for her. Then it was Ron and Padma.
They got questions about the Hue Ball and they reconnected years
later. Padma answered the question with
easy grace. Even the weasel managed to be
charming in a self deprecating yet lovable way.
They'd clearly been practising. Next was the Patil twins
delicate questions to Pavati about Lavender and the loss of
her best friend. After that was Denis Creevy and
everyone stood for his interview, a silent show of
support for the brother he lost. They took individual shots of
each person, as well as every couple and every imaginable
grouping. The Hufflepuffs, the Ravenclaws,
the Gryffindors, the Weasleys, Johnson, Bell and Spinette,
Potter, Weasel, Thomas, Finnegan, and Neville.
It turned into quite the affair, everyone laughing and telling
old jokes and stories, half of which Pansy had never heard
before. Pansy was just starting to enjoy
herself when the producers made the next announcement.
Hermione and Neville. Pansy glanced over at Draco, his
eyes met hers and he lifted his chin with a small nod, as if to
remind her to keep hers up. They both had known this was
coming. At least now they didn't have to
wait for it anymore. You know Draco, while you're
here we should get a few pictures of you and Hermione.
The producer said after they got the photos they wanted of
Hermione and Neville, the attempt at subtlety was rather
weak. Neville, don't go too far.
Daphne slid over to Pansy, touching up her hair and makeup
as swiftly as she could, replying.
The lipstick Daphne had found was the perfect match for the
burgundy red that Neville wore. It was more subdued than her
usual red, but it fit the theme of the day.
Someone nearby scoffed, but Pansy ignored them.
Out of the corner of her eye, she watched Hermione laugh and
pose with Draco, forcing one of those smiles he only gave to
her. Pansy had dressed him in AV neck
jumper underneath a double breasted suit coat.
The entire outfit was charcoal, complementary to the outfit
Hermione wore, but without any of the nods to his house or the
Navy that tied the rest of the group together.
Neville, why don't you join them again?
He shot a confused look before following instructions.
Pansy, let's get you in on this as well.
It was like someone had charmed all the laughter right out of
the room. Still, Neville's easy smile and
Daphne's quick hand squeeze gave her the boldness she needed to
strut straight up to him. She put him in a fitted burgundy
suit and a layered Navy knits waitcoast over a burgundy and
Navy tartan shirt. He looked good enough to eat.
No one was allowed to wear any of the outfits until after the
magazine was published, but Pansy assumed that only meant
him public. The things she wanted him to do
to her while wearing it weren't fit for public anyway.
Like Draco, Pansy had dressed entirely in charcoal.
She kept it simple with a half sleeve, a line dress, 5 inch
Navy heels. Even with them, she barely came
up to Neville's chin. He beamed at her in a way that
made her heart skip as he took her hand.
Ever since the right, any time she was close to him, that part
of her magical core bound to his almost started to sing.
Unable to resist herself, she adjusted his cufflinks.
The moment she saw the familiar silver, her head snapped up.
He smirked. I was told that accessory is a
perfect place to show off a little quirk or elevating outfit
from merely fashionable to truly stylish.
She grinned right as the flash went off.
Clearing her throat, she ignored the fluttering that she got from
Neville, choosing the Mimby cufflink she gave him for
Valentine's Day over the provided Gryffindor Crest ones.
She was no stranger to posing for photographs or portraits,
but Neville seemed determined to make her break at every chance.
From the sounds of Hermione's giggles, Draco wasn't faring
much either. Hermione and Neville, the two of
you, were both leaders of the DA at various points.
Marjorie said as the flashes wound down.
Hermione, the idea was yours. In Neville's, you took up
Harry's mantle 7th year, correct?
With Ginny and Luna? Yeah.
Neville said, who were also original members when you
initially formed against Dolores Umbridge.
A gleam sparked in her eyes. Of course, you weren't up
against just her, were you? There was another student
organization that year. Out of the corner of her eye,
Pansy saw Hermione stiffen. A rival organization of which
two former members are present today.
The rest of the DA all drifted closer to watch the bloodbath,
refreshments and side conversations entirely
forgotten. In fact, one could argue,
Marjorie continued. The two members most responsible
for bringing down the DA. Hermione let the silence hang
for several long heartbeats. Do you have a question for
Neville or I, or are you just monologuing?
Marjorie gave her a small smile. Stating my curiosity.
Hermione arched an eyebrow. Surely before either of you
began your relationship with your current partner, the past
hadn't to be addressed in order for reconciliation to occur, let
alone romance. She said.
Jaco Malfoy's efforts to apologise are well documented
now. Ever, I think.
Neville said loudly, cutting her off.
What's everyone is always so quick to forget is that every
single one of us were children. Hermione turned to him.
Marjorie sat back, equally observant.
Our rules in this war were determined as much by who our
parents and family were and the choices they made before we were
even born as anything we chose for ourselves.
He said. And that goes for everyone
present. She could feel the weight of the
stares at her from all around the room.
She fucking hated being the centre of attention.
Not like this anyway. Voldemort was literally living
in Draco's home. Neville continued.
He and the other children of Death Eaters saw the true depths
of evil to which Voldemort and his followers aspired.
They were never given the freedom of choice, not when they
knew exactly what disloyalty would mean for them and those
they loved, leading to the near deaths of Ron Weasley, Katie
Bell, and everyone who fought on the Battle of the Astronomy
Tower that led to the death of Albert Dumbledore.
Marjorie pointed out Alba Stumbledore was dying before he
ever stepped foot on that tower that night.
Potter said cutting her off. His death was a prearranged
mercy killing with Snape. Marjorie turned to him.
Do you speak for Ron Weasley and Katie Bell as well?
It's not like Draco was trying to kill me, Ron said.
Harry saved me and I got to miss a week of class.
Moors were under the bridge. Marjorie turned to Katie.
I have also forgiven Draco. She looked like she was fighting
a smirk. Kind of had to when my revenge
plot worked entirely against me. Hermione's eyes narrowed.
What are you talking about? Draco looked equally confused.
Well, when Draco came back from Egypt and needed to be assigned
to a department for his internship, I happened to
suggest the department and supervisor I thought would piss
him off the most. Pansy slapped her hand over her
mouth and tried to muffle her laughter.
Hermione gasped. That was you, Katie.
You've both since said it's the best thing that's ever happened
to you 2, so you're welcome. She said, rolling her eyes.
Hermione's hand tightened around her wand.
I asked you if you knew who planned that with the clear
intention to cause them bodily harm.
Katie said. Of course I lied, and anyone who
wasn't sniggering was full of Han laughing now.
Draco gaped at Katie. You said you forgave me.
I did, she said. I also thought it would make me
feel better to watch Hermione torture you for a year, which
from the sounds of it was a different type of torture than I
was expecting. But all three of us got what we
wanted in the end. Potter bent over double in near
hysterics. Pansy was about to join him.
Shot it, Potter, Draco muttered, but he was fighting off a rueful
grin. How exactly would the three of
you define your relationship? Marjorie asked.
Potter, Draco, and Weasel, friends, acquaintances who
tolerate each other because of Hermione Granger.
Potter and Weasel traded a look. Draco and I never got along from
the moment we met, Potter said. Why it was nice to you.
You were the one who refused to shake my hand, Draco said.
Yeah, because you were being a total git, Potter said.
His mouth rose in a smirk. He didn't bother to deny it when
he apologised to all of us when he returned from Egypt.
Man was ready to put everything behind us and move forward,
Potter continued. I didn't necessarily see us
becoming friends, not until I saw how much he'd changed and
how much he and Hermione care for each other.
But I'm glad we are now. And for you, Ron?
Marjorie asked. He rubbed the back of his neck.
For a while, it seemed like Drako and I were destined to be
enemies. He said Our families hated each
other. I mean, our dads got into a fist
fight in a bookstore when they were shopping for school
supplies before second year. Pansy had completely forgotten
about that. Draco had been mortified, Blamed
it all on Arthur Weasley, of course, but he'd been disgusted
with his father all the same, brawling about like a muggle
with a blood traitor in public. Even before I grew to like
Draco, I knew he was different from his dad, and that if I
wanted, I could set a different example to my own kids.
Draco glanced over at him. It took me longer than Harry or
Hermione to forgive Draco, but the two of them help me see how
different he is from the person we knew in school.
Ron flashed him a smirk. And he's going to marry one of
my best friends, so he stuck with us whether he wants it or
not. Marjorie turned to the crowd.
Would you say that Draco's willingness to apologise to each
of the people he's wronged was a large factor in each of you
being able to not simply forgive, but also befriend him?
Jinny met Pansy's gaze across the room, mocking spite in her
eyes. The smile she turned on Marjorie
was sickly sweet. Of course, she said.
Not only is apologising the basest level of human decency
after you've wronged someone, but it showed us that you
actually changed, playing right into where Marjorie was going
with this. How do each of you feel towards
former rivals who have not only shown their unwillingness to
apologise, but refuse to admit their wrongdoing?
Pansy's lips curled into a smirk as everyone glanced towards her.
That's enough. Neville's voice cut through the
room, harsh and firm. His hand moved to the small of
Pansy's back, the gentle pressure reminiscent of the feel
of his magic, bound to hers. Marjorie didn't so much as
blink. It doesn't bother you?
She asked. That she tried to give up the
friend you were so willing to die to protect.
Perhaps the only person capable of defeating Voldemort, an
action for which she, to my knowledge, has refused as much
as to state her regret, let alone apologise.
Everyone was staring at Neville now, the past ten months of
doubts and questions and betrayal that he'd chosen her
echoed across their faces. The smile he gave them all was
tight, hard. I am proud of her for what she
did. The already quiet room became
deathly silent. Pansy's stomach rolled and her
heart pounded. If he even thought about
betraying her. To all these people in this
setting. For those of us in the DEA who
grew up in the magical world, we were doing what those who raised
us taught us, he said that if we were strong and brave, that good
would prevail over evil, like it did before.
Neville's thumb moved in a small comforting circle on the small
of her back, a gentle reassurance of his presence, his
promise to be there for her. Most of us never believed that
we would lose the war, he said. We believed in the Order and in
whatever Harry, Ron and Hermione were doing that we would
ultimately triumph, just like our parents generation did in
the first war, Not without cost. Von Neville knew all too well
Pansy and Draco are Slytherins, he said.
Not because of who their families are, but because they
are cunning, resourceful, and determined and pragmatic to
their cause. To the rest of the group, that
might have been akin to an insult.
Draco, however, was practically preening at his words.
Catching Pansy's eye, Draco winked With a small smirk.
She returned. Because of their parents.
They knew exactly what would have happened to each of us had
we lost the battle that night. Neville's words immediately
sobered her up. The once hateful looks his
fellow DA members shot her were now filled with a hint of doubt,
confusion, and disbelief. After helping Harry, Ron and
Hermione and Luna at Easter, Draco had very little goodwill
or standing left. He said.
Pansy, however, was playing six moves ahead of a game we didn't
know we were in so that she could position herself to save
two of the closest friends I have from horrifically
unspeakable fates. Hermione's head snapped up to
Draco and then over to her. Pansy avoided her gaze, unable
to watch her brilliant mind work it out.
What do you mean? Marjorie asked.
That's all I feel comfortable saying on the matter because the
rest of it is between Pansy and those two people.
Neville said across the room. Potter pulled off his glasses
and rubbed his face with a quiet fuck.
But I will never let anyone degrade Pansy for the choices
she made that night, not when I know the truth about them.
Marjorie sat back, absorbing this.
How do you think your parents would feel about you marrying a
daughter of a non blood supremacist?
Were they with us? Pansy couldn't help her small
gasp. Neville straitened.
My parents are with us, he said. To imply anything else is
incredibly offensive. Half of the DA looked at her and
disgust. Forgive me, Marjorie said.
I only meant to ask what you believe your parents might think
of her if I already know exactly what my parents think of her, he
said. My mother adores Pansy, has made
it clear every single time she sees her that Pansy is one of
her favorite people in the world.
Marjorie sat back, obviously trying to formulate the question
she wanted to ask without insulting Neville again.
He didn't give her the chance. My family is incredibly grateful
to the remarkable care that Saint Mungo's has provided my
parents over the past 20-3 years, he said.
However, there are gaps that can only be filled by family.
From the moment she met my mum, Pansy noticed one of those gaps.
Humiliation burned through her as she stood her ground in front
of those people who had judged her the harshest for the past
seven years. 14, if she was honest, flayed bare as Neville
revealed some of her deepest vulnerabilities and secrets, not
just to her friends, but to the entire wizarding world.
And yet no one had ever spoken up for her, tried to defend her.
She had always, always been on her own, and she knew how to
handle it, how to build walls and protect herself.
But Neville was standing up for her to each of his friends, to
Harry fucking Potter, risking his reputation.
Marjorie and the rest of the producers could cut and change
his words to be whatever they wanted, and no one who wasn't in
the room would know the difference.
Neville's hand was steady on the small of her back.
Pansy blocked her schedule 4 times a week during some of the
most desirable appointment times to visit my mother and provide
the care that only a daughter could.
Something clenched in her gut at that word.
My parents do gnaw Pansy. He said.
It's why they love her. Hushed whispers caught her ear.
She couldn't catch a word, but Maisie Reynolds was frantically
whispering something to Pavati and Padma while Wieseltt
listened in, freckled face pale. Marjorie took in the faces of
the DA, who were obviously hearing all of this for the
first time before she turned to Pansy.
You haven't spoken in your defence before, she said.
Why now planting a spark of doubt in their minds that
anything Neville said was actually true?
Neville spoke for her. Because Pansy doesn't owe anyone
anything, least of all the people who judged her without
giving her a chance to explain. And perhaps the families of the
fallen, including those present. You do not speak for the
families of the fallen. Denis said, his voice sharp.
Or their friends? Pavati snapped.
Children of Death Eaters are not their parents unless they choose
to be. Denis said it makes those who
rejected their parents teachings and fought for what was right,
whether we saw it or not, as brave as, if not braver than
anyone in this room. She knew that that was about
Tory and yet it warmed something in her that it wasn't just
Neville who saw her. You were tortured by one of your
professors as a second year because of her, Marjorie said.
Each of us was tortured by a professor because the ministry
was so intent on suppressing the truth and trying to assert
control over Hogwarts, that mad woman was put in charge, Dennis
said. I hold those adults far more
responsible than a 15 year old girl who turned a list of our
names over. Marjorie sat back.
You've become quite the defender of Miss Parkinson Longbottom, he
said. And yeah, you tend to do that
when you see the length someone is willing to go to for someone
you love. What is that?
Daphne and Katie were both shooting him looks, but there
was no need. He crossed his arms.
I have to admit, I'm confused about what this has to do with
the article. He said this is supposed to be a
reunion piece about the DA. Surely a discussion about your
biggest rivals. Drago and Pansy weren't our
biggest rivals, he said. Anyone who thinks that is
ignorant and missing what this is really about, which was
children having to prepare themselves for war.
Heavy silence hung in the room. My father, a muggle milkman,
spent months on the run with Colin and I, hiding from Death
Eaters and Snatchers because we were muggle born Wizards, he
said. Voldemort was our biggest rival.
Blood prejudice was our biggest rival, not two teenagers,
despite the fact that they were both outwardly supporting the
regime in order to remain alive, they should have been our
biggest rivals, he said. We never should have had to
worry about more than the Ponzi git of a Slytherin prefect
catching us sneaking out of bed for a prank.
Several members were fighting smirks or sniggers at Draco, and
Draco and Pansy should have never had to worry about
anything more than us trying to retaliate for putting red eye in
Draco shampoo or hexing Pansy with antlers.
More laughter bubbled up from the crowd.
Pansy frowned. As far as she knew, they'd never
been successful in colouring Draco's hair, but the antler
thing still rankled her. I still want to know who did
that. No one confessed, but more of
them laughed. Denis waited a moment.
Our years in school should have been about discovering ourselves
and who we are, he said, not turning children into child
soldiers whose sides were chosen by who their parents were.
The brief moment of levity died out with his words.
I wish Draco and Pansy had been our biggest rivals, he said.
My brother would still be alive today if that was the case.
He died with a wand in his hand, fighting against bigotry, and he
wouldn't have had it any other way but God.
He closed his eyes for a moment, composing himself.
Voldemort rose to power because he capitalised on the fears of
blood supremacists and bigots. He said the Potters and the
Longbottoms and the Pruitts and so many others risked everything
to fight him. The first time we fought against
him as children, The second time before Voldemort, there was
Grindelwald. Their history was littered with
painful examples. We as a society need to ask
ourselves when this stops, Dennis continued.
How many generations of children will be forced to grow up before
their time and fight in a war they didn't create?
How many more children will be left orphans or near orphans?
How many 16 year old boys will never get to grow up?
He brushed the moisture off his cheeks.
Blood of supremacy needs to be eradicated in every form, he
said. There are people like Hermione
fighting it from a legislative level, and there are people like
Pansy fighting it on a cultural level.
Both matter, both are important, and both deserve to be
celebrated because it is the only way we will move on.
Neville stepped closer, sliding his hand around her waist and
giving her a gentle squeeze. Hermione stepped forward,
smoothing her skirt. Well said Dennis, she said.
In fact, I can't think of a single thing I have left to say
that would be more powerful than that.
She turned to the others. Anyone else?
She was met with a chorus of nose and shaking heads.
Very well, Marjorie said. One last group photo in these
outfits. Orson said.
Pansy fled the set as far as she was able.
Daphne caught Dennis pretending to adjust his hair.
Full moment is tomorrow. Just chilled off.
Pansy caught him whispering back before he went to join the
others. They were positioned in the
exact spots they stood in, the sole picture of the DA from 5th
year. The places where Fred Weasley,
Lavender Brown, and Colin Creevy stood were left open, a silent
testimony to their loss. There were no smiles, no
laughter, just a sharp, triumphant fierceness.
If it wasn't the cover photo of the magazine, Pansy would sell
her shop to Charlie Weasley and take his place in the dragon
sanctuary. The tense air only started to
dissipate as the final shot was taken and the crew started to
break down the set. Pansy trailed around the room,
trying to make sure each piece of every outfit was accounted
for. Dennis strode up to her, handing
over his outfit. Thanks, she said.
I'll mail it back to you on the second.
Sounds good. Her eyes narrowed at the smirk
on his face. What, Still want to know who
gave you antlers? 5th year?
That was you. She didn't give a fuck.
The new moon was tomorrow and the punishment would only last
for a day. He was losing access to her
wards that minute. He shook his head.
Colin, a Gryffindor, hexed me in the back.
His smirk only spread. I thought it had to be a
Ravenclaw or a Hufflepuff too. He held up his finger.
He said. Can't say bad words about the
dead and it's not respectful. Really.
She deadpanned. You're going to play the dead
brother card? George Weasley walked over,
holding out his outfit. It would be a dishonour to their
memory not to use it. He shot Dennis a smirk, but
there was a bittersweet look in both their eyes as they grinned
at each other. Pansy marched around them.
I believe your temporary reprieve from being banned from
my shop has now expired, Creevy. Whether it was gallows humour or
shock at her banter with the two, everyone else seemed
uncertain how to act around her. Maybe even Neville's little
speech was making them question if she was evil personified or
not. She gave it a week at most
before some remembered yet another crime she committed or
faux pas she unknowingly made, and they could all safely
despise her again. Here.
Neville approached her as everyone else was beginning to
trail out, his normally expressive face guarded.
She went back to sorting the giant pile of clothes.
We're going out for dinner. She smirked.
I pity the poor servers at whatever restaurant you pick,
you should come. She exhaled slowly, counting to
10. I don't think that's a good
idea, Bansi. You deserve a fun night out with
your friends, she said. I'll see you tonight.
She felt his eyes on her. Oh, we.
Oh, we OK. She flashed him a smile.
Of course he didn't look convinced.
She went back to work. I have a lot left to do here
anyway, she said. You might even beat me home, Can
I help? No, she said.
Enjoy your dinner, Bansi. She finally glanced up to meet
his eyes. He looked like he was about to
say something, then changed his mind.
He bent down and brushed his lips against her cheek,
lingering for a moment longer than necessary.
See you at home. He moved away, giving her
breathing room. She looked around to see what
she missed. Hannah Abbott was watching her
carefully from where she stood. As soon as Pansy met her gaze,
she turned back to the other she was chatting with.
The sooner everyone was gone, the better.
When it was finally just Pansy and Daphne left, she sagged
against the edge of the table, rubbing her temples.
Want to talk about it? Daphne asked.
Fuck no. She stood and went back to
putting outfits on hangers. She could feel Daphne's eyes on
her as they worked, so obviously one of them was Grainger, she
said. Just promise me that the other
wasn't Wieselt, because I swear obviously not, Pansy said.
I would have enjoyed watching her suffer.
Hmm, she said. Lovegood then daf yes, I'm not
playing this game with them and I'm not playing this game with
you, she said. Shut the fuck up.
Daphne tossed A scarlet tartan dress.
As she shook it out a bit, she realised it was Jinny's.
Whatever you say, Pans. Pansy sipped her glass of wine,
watching the fireplace. The crack of apparition made her
flinch, but her face was back to neutral when Neville stepped
through the door. She'd considered going to bed
early, but he'd been sleeping in there more nights than not as of
late. The conversation needed to
happen no matter what, so there was no sense in putting it off
here. He said, his voice soft.
You're home earlier than I expected.
He gave her a rye grin. Most of us have to be up for
work in the morning. Fair enough.
I'm not sorry. Her gaze flicked up.
I am if you feel like I betrayed your trust.
He said. But I'm not going to apologise
for standing up for you. I'm not going to sit by while
anyone I know is attacked for something they don't deserve,
especially after everything you are going to do.
She rotated her wine glass, marching the liquid trail down
the interior. She doubted anyone had left it
at what he'd said during the interview.
Did they quiz you about what you said?
He leaned against the wall. I told them it wasn't my place
to tell. And did they let it go?
The corner of his mouth rose. Eventually, he said everyone's
attention was split between Dennis, too.
She almost smirked, and Betty enjoyed that.
Is it Katie? She almost spit out her wine.
Katie. His eyes narrowed.
And she's in on it, At least. She smiled.
We'll all find out about it before long.
He crossed his arms. Yeah, it's apparently in
Sunday's profit. She sighed.
Well, if there's a picture along with whatever is published, I
hope the clothes look nice. Hmm.
He said, a hint of humour in his voice.
Any signature style I should look for?
I'm always fond of the blending of muggle and pure blood
fashions. He cocked his head.
Pure blood, huh? She grinned.
He shook his head. Merlin, they were all in for the
shock of their lives. She couldn't wait.
Neville cleared his throat. Are we, are we OK?
What do you mean? After all that stuff?
During the interview he said you told me not to tell anyone, and
I didn't say specifics. But I wasn't going to let them
attack you, and I'm not sorry for that.
But I am sorry if you feel betrayed.
She turned back to the fire. I don't, Bansi, really, she
said. I know what you were trying to
do, and I appreciate it. She could practically feel him
hovering. She turned back to face him.
We're good, she said. I promise.
He studied her. Is there something else going
on? She took a long drink of her
wine. Nope.
She drew out the word, the pea popping just a bit.
He clearly didn't believe her. Time for a new topic.
My period started this morning. It took him a moment, then
relief flooded his face. Oh, good.
Uh, that's, that's great. She swallowed the last of the
wine in her glass. It was a large drink, but it
didn't burn half as much as the look on his face.
Yeah, she said. No harm done, he was a free man.
He cleared his throat. How are you feeling?
Crampy. Cranky, she said.
I'm tired, but that could be from the stress of the past two
weeks. Yeah, you put in a lot.
He said the outfits looked amazing today.
Thank you. Everyone thought so.
She flashed him a smile. I'm going to head to bed, OK?
He said. Ma'am beat 2.
Once they were both ready, he slid into bed next to her,
pulling her close. Really proud of you Pans.
He whispered, kissing her cheek. She swallowed past the lump in
her throat. Bansi.
Thanks Longbottom, she said. Good night.
Night. Moments later he was breathing
deeply. It took her far longer to
finally drift off.