THE TOWER AND THE STAR - Pansy Neville (HP)

Pansy could barely contain her excitement as she danced around the living room, her steps light and joyful. The moment she'd received the owl with the news, she had let out an ecstatic squeal that startled Lady Lemongrass, sending the pug into a confused frenzy of snorts and tail wags. Luna had given birth. Baby Lysander was here, healthy and perfect. The announcement had filled Pansy's heart with warmth and an overwhelming sense of joy for her dear friend.

"Luna's had her baby!" she exclaimed, her voice bubbling with excitement as she twirled around the room. She grabbed Lady Lemongrass and spun her in the air, laughing as the pug squirmed, completely unbothered by her owner's theatrics. "A beautiful, perfect little boy, and they've named him Lysander. Can you believe it, Nevie? Our Luna is a mother!"

He, who had been tending to his herbology notes, looked up from his work with a wide smile. He loved seeing Pansy like this, her energy infectious, her joy palpable. It was one of the reasons he adored her—when she felt something, she felt it deeply, without holding back. He set his quill down and crossed the room, wrapping his arms around her waist as she continued to bounce with glee.

"Lysander… I like that name. Strong, full of life," Neville said, leaning down to press a kiss against her temple, his affection for her grounding her wild energy just a bit. "Luna will be an amazing mother, and Theo… well, I bet he's already wrapped around that little boy's finger."

She turned in his arms, her eyes gleaming with delight. "Theo? Oh, absolutely. That man's going to be completely smitten. You know how serious he always is, but just wait until Lysander flashes his first smile—he'll melt like chocolate in the sun. I can already picture it! And Luna…" her voice softened with affection for her long-time friend. "Luna will be a dream. She's been waiting for this, you know. The love she has to give... that baby boy is going to grow up surrounded by so much magic, and I don't just mean spells."

Her eyes shimmered as she imagined the whimsical world Lysander would be raised in, the wonder and adventure that would surround him every day. She imagined Luna's gentle spirit nurturing her son with stories of magical creatures and mysteries hidden in every corner of the world. Theo, once stoic and reserved, would become a soft and protective father, completely captivated by the tiny human who had already stolen their hearts.

She pulled out her wand and waved it with a flourish, conjuring a flurry of pastel-colored streamers that spiraled around the room, mimicking the celebration she wanted to throw for her friends. "We have to go see them immediately, Nevie! We need gifts—oh, I have to pick out something fabulous for Lysander. Something that screams he's part of this fabulous circle of ours."

He chuckled, pulling her close. "Why don't we let Luna rest for a bit first? We'll visit soon enough, but for now, we can celebrate with just the two of us."

She grinned, resting her head on his chest, her excitement not dimmed but softened by his calming presence. "I know. You're right. But I just want to do something to show them how happy I am, how much love I already have for that little boy."

He stroked her back, smiling as he looked down at her. "There will be plenty of time for that, love. We'll make sure Lysander knows he has the best Godmother and Godfather around."

She beamed up at him. "You better believe it! That kid is going to be spoiled rotten, and I'm going to make sure he has impeccable taste from day one. None of that boring baby nonsense."

He chuckled again, pressing a kiss to her forehead. "I'm sure Lysander will appreciate your efforts."

As they swayed together, her mind raced with ideas—extravagant gifts, grand celebrations, and countless memories waiting to be made with little Lysander and his proud parents. The excitement of Luna and Theo becoming parents was enough to send her heart soaring. But at the core of it all, beyond the excitement and plans, was a deep sense of gratitude for the friendships that had carried them all through so much, and now, they were entering a new chapter together, one filled with love, life, and new beginnings.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

 The Nott estate, nestled comfortably in the rolling green countryside, seemed to exude warmth despite the cool air. Blooming roses, their fragrance sweet and heady, painted vibrant splashes of color against the backdrop of the manor's grey stone. A rare moment of tranquility settled over them, a welcome respite from the whirlwind of emotions that had dominated their lives recently.

With each step, she felt a mix of excitement and nostalgia. It was hard to believe that just a short time ago, she and Neville had been consumed by the turmoil surrounding their friends and the challenges they faced. But today was different. Today was a day for celebration, a day to welcome the newest member of their family.

Pansy arrived with Neville in tow, carrying their own happy child, Lady Lemongrass, wearing a dress that matched Pansy's stylish outfit, trotted ahead, her little legs moving eagerly as she sniffed around the unfamiliar surroundings. Pansy couldn't help but chuckle as she watched the pug's antics.

"Come on, Lady, don't get lost!" she called out playfully, but the pug was too busy investigating a particularly interesting patch of grass.

Neville followed closely behind, his hands occupied with a beautifully wrapped gift—a small wooden toy that he had crafted himself. He had spent hours whittling it down, ensuring it was safe for a baby, while she had contributed by meticulously painting it in vibrant colors. "I hope he likes it," he murmured, glancing down at the package with a mix of pride and nerves.

She smiled up at him, her heart swelling with affection. "Lysander will love it, just like he'll love all of us. Besides, he's probably going to be spoiled rotten today."

As they stepped inside the manor, the warmth enveloped them, and Luna greeted them with a warm smile, Lysander nestled comfortably in her arms. His tiny face peeked out from the soft blankets, his little fingers curling instinctively. "Pansy, Neville, so good to see you again. Come in, come in," she said, her voice a soothing melody that resonated with happiness.

Pansy beamed, allowing Lady Lemongrass to roam free as she excitedly bounded into the living room, eager to explore. "Luna, you look radiant. How's my little godson doing today?" she asked, her voice dripping with affection as she approached Luna, reaching out to gently touch the baby's cheek.

"He's doing wonderfully," Luna replied, glancing down at her son with eyes full of love. "I think he's finally settling into a routine, although it changes daily! But he's learning to appreciate his visitors." She smiled, revealing a hint of pride.

He placed the gift on a nearby table and approached Luna, a gentle smile on his face. "He looks so peaceful. I think he's used to all the attention by now," he added, leaning closer to catch a glimpse of the baby's small features.

"Speaking of attention," Theo said, joining them from the kitchen with a playful smirk on his face as the pug sniffed at his shoes. "I see you brought the annoying one, Parkinson. It's good to have everyone here."

She shrugged, her eyes twinkling with mischief. "Well, we couldn't leave her at home. Besides, she's here to help Lysander get used to having a pet around." She glanced over at the pug, who had taken a sudden interest in Theo's shoe, probably searching for leftover crumbs.

"Just make sure she doesn't try to eat him," Theo replied, arching an eyebrow, but his tone was light and teasing.

"Oh please, she's a lover, not a fighter," she retorted, playfully swatting at Theo. "You should know that by now. Besides, Lady has a soft spot for babies."

Just then, Lady Lemongrass pranced back over, tail wagging with excitement. Pansy knelt down to scoop her up, cradling the pug in her arms. "See? She's already practicing her babysitting skills," she said, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm.

Luna laughed, her laughter melodic. "I can just imagine the two of them—Lysander and Lady, the best of friends. We should start thinking about playdates for them, don't you think?"

"Absolutely!" she exclaimed. "They'll be the most adorable duo. I can picture it now: two little ones getting into mischief together."

As they settled into the cozy living room, the atmosphere filled with laughter and warmth, the chatter of friends and family enveloped them like a soft blanket. Theo moved to pour tea while Neville set up the toy he had crafted, demonstrating it for the eager eyes of his godson.

"Look, Lysander, it's a little dragon! It can breathe fire!" he said, making a whooshing sound that caused the baby to coo, his tiny fingers reaching for the colorful toy

"Quite the performance there, Neville," she teased, watching him with admiration. "I think you're in the wrong profession. You should be an entertainer!"

He chuckled, a hint of blush creeping into his cheeks. "Maybe I'll add it to my list of skills," he replied, smiling at Luna, who was watching with amusement.

Inside, the manor hummed with a comforting bustle. Laughter and warm light emanated from the living room, beckoning them forward. Luna, ethereal in a flowing white dress that seemed to shimmer with the afternoon sunlight, stood waiting at the door. Her ever-present smile widened as she spotted them, her blonde hair cascading down in a halo of gentle curls.

The grand hall, once a space that might have felt intimidatingly vast, now radiated a welcoming ambiance. Forest-colored banners, adorned with glittering silver creatures that resembled Nifflers, hung from the rafters. Balloons, in shades of emerald and gold, bobbed playfully in the gentle breeze that drifted through the open windows. The air buzzed with a low hum of conversation and laughter, a symphony of joy that warmed Pansy from the inside out.

Her keen eye, ever the observer, noted the handmade decorations that festooned the room—intricate paper owls perched on mantelpieces, miniature mandrake cakes nestled amongst bowls of sugared plums, and lanterns casting soft light that danced across the walls. It was as if the essence of the Wizarding World had been distilled into this one space, wrapping everyone in a sense of wonder and delight.

Just then, Hermione and Draco entered, their presence instantly recognizable amidst the merriment. As they made their way further in, Hermione spotted Blaise and Pansy deep in conversation near a table overflowing with brightly wrapped gifts. A smile tugged at the corners of her lips, and she gave a small wave in their direction.

"Look at all of this," Hermione whispered to Draco, her voice tinged with awe as her eyes swept over the room. "It's truly magical."

A warmth bloomed in Draco's chest, mirroring the festive spirit that filled the hall. "Indeed," he agreed, his lips curving into a genuine smile. "Luna's outdone herself. The decorations are quite… whimsical."

Luna, ever the gracious hostess, led them towards a cozy corner where a small group had gathered. Seated on a plush armchair was Neville, his face lit with radiant joy as he cradled a sleeping baby in his arms.

Nestled in a miniature, hand-stitched crib, the tiny form of Lysander seemed peacefully oblivious to the excitement surrounding him. As they approached, Neville looked up, his smile widening as he recognized them.

"Hermione, Draco! So glad you could make it," he exclaimed, his voice brimming with excitement. His gaze then shifted to the bundle in his arms. "This little one here seems to be saving all his energy for the real celebrations."

Even in slumber, a faint resemblance to both Luna and Theo was evident. He possessed her delicate features and wispy blonde hair, but the smattering of freckles dusting his nose was a clear nod to Theo's heritage. A chorus of soft coos and hushed whispers filled the air as the group fawned over the sleeping child.

"Isn't he just perfect?" Pansy said warmly, nodding towards the sleeping baby.

"He really is," Hermione agreed softly, her heart melting at the sight of the tiny baby. "Congratulations, Luna, and to you too, Theo."

"Thank you," Luna replied, her smile widening as she leaned in closer to admire her son. "He's brought so much light into our lives."

Draco stepped closer, unable to resist the urge to peer at the baby. "Lysander Nott," he murmured, a hint of awe coloring his tone. "The most beautiful baby boy I have ever seen."

Luna chuckled lightly. "You're just saying that because he's your 'nephew' to spoil, Draco," she teased, but her eyes sparkled with gratitude.

As they all gathered around Neville and the sleeping baby, the laughter and chatter in the room began to swell, filling every corner with a joyous warmth. Pansy felt a surge of happiness wash over her as she watched Neville gently rock Lysander, his expression a perfect blend of pride and tenderness. It was a sight she would treasure forever.

"Can I hold him?" Hermione asked, her voice soft and reverent, almost as if she feared waking him.

"Of course! Just be careful," Neville said, carefully transferring the baby into Hermione's arms.

Hermione cradled him close, her heart swelling as she looked down at the tiny face that was so peaceful and innocent. "Hi there, little Lysander. I'm your Auntie Hermione," she whispered, her eyes shining with affection.

Pansy moved closer, peering over Hermione's shoulder to catch a glimpse of the baby. "You're going to be the most spoiled baby in the world, you know that, right?"

Lysander stirred slightly at the sound of her voice but remained peacefully asleep. "Look at him! He's so relaxed," Pansy remarked, a grin spreading across her face.

Draco leaned in closer, a proud glimmer in his eyes as he surveyed his friends surrounding the baby. "I never thought I'd see the day when Neville Longbottom would be so effortlessly charming with a child," he teased, earning an exaggerated huff from Neville.

"It's all thanks to you lot. I've had the best examples," Neville said, glancing around at the gathered friends. "And speaking of spoiling, we should get to the gifts before he wakes up and demands attention."

"Good idea! Let's see what treasures everyone has brought," Luna chimed in, her enthusiasm infectious.

As they settled into a circle on the plush rug, the atmosphere shifted into one of eager anticipation. Hermione gently passed Lysander back to Neville, who cradled him with practiced ease.

One by one, they began to present their gifts—colorful packages wrapped in ribbons and adorned with sparkly bows. Pansy had brought a soft blanket, magically imbued to keep Lysander warm on chilly nights. Draco presented a silver rattle shaped like a dragon, its eyes sparkling with enchanted light.

Luna laughed as each gift was unveiled, her joy palpable as she watched her friends celebrate the arrival of her son. It felt surreal to her, surrounded by love and friendship, all woven together in this moment.

As the day continued, laughter and playful banter filled the room, with Lady Lemongrass occasionally interrupting the festivities with her eager barks. The atmosphere buzzed with a palpable sense of joy, a shared celebration of life and love that seemed to deepen their bonds.

Pansy watched the scene unfold, a warm glow enveloping her heart. This was what life was about—the connections they formed, the joy they shared, and the promise of new beginnings. With friends like these, she knew their lives would always be filled with laughter, adventure, and above all, love.

As the afternoon unfolded, Hermione and Draco mingled with the guests, sharing stories and laughter. Draco found himself engaged in a lively conversation with Theo and Blaise about the trials and triumphs of parenting. Their banter was filled with playful jabs and shared experiences, each man finding common ground in their newfound roles as fathers. Meanwhile, Hermione caught up with Luna and Pansy, exchanging updates on their latest adventures and life changes, their voices mingling in a harmonious blend of excitement and camaraderie.

Across the room, Ginny was bubbling with enthusiasm, her cheeks flushed with joy as she presented a basket filled with homemade cookies and a selection of adorable baby clothes. "I couldn't resist bringing these! They're all enchanted to grow with him, of course!" she exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with excitement. The atmosphere was one of pure delight, a celebration of new beginnings and cherished friendships.

For now, Ginny would hold onto this moment, a sweet glimpse into a potential future that filled her with hope. She smiled to herself, knowing that every day was a new opportunity to nurture the love she was building with Blaise, one step at a time.

Later, as the sun began to set and the guests started to leave, Hermione stood with Luna by the window, watching the golden hues of twilight spread across the sky like a watercolor painting. "Thank you for inviting us, babe. This was really wonderful," Hermione said sincerely, her heart full as she admired the scene before her.

Luna smiled warmly, her expression radiant in the soft light. "I'm so glad you could be here, Mimi. It wouldn't have been the same without you."

Just then, Theo's worst nightmare came true when he spotted Lady Lemongrass leaping onto the crib, determined to join Lysander for an afternoon nap.

"BEAST, get off immediately!" Theo's voice sliced through the warm atmosphere, sharp with alarm as he strode over, his heart pounding in his chest. But the pug merely gave him a bombastic side-eye, her expression one of pure defiance, before snuggling even closer to the sleeping baby.

Theo's frustration bubbled over as he reached for Lady Lemongrass, but Luna's gentle hand on his arm stopped him. "Theo, look," she whispered, a soft smile tugging at her lips. "She's just being protective."

Taking a deep breath, Theo watched as Lady Lemongrass curled up beside Lysander, her little body radiating warmth and comfort. Though he remained uneasy, Theo couldn't help but feel a swell of affection at the sight. It seemed that even their stubborn pug had been charmed by their son, her loyalty evident in her sleepy embrace.

Returning to the garden, Theo vented his frustration to Pansy, who was enjoying the festive atmosphere. "Parkinson, your creature is disturbing my son. Make her stop snoring," Theo complained, his annoyance clear as he gestured towards Lady, who was blissfully oblivious.

She raised an eyebrow, her lips curving into a smirk. "What's got your knickers in a twist, darling? Afraid Lady will have a bestie?" she retorted, her sassy attitude shining through, her eyes sparkling with mischief.

Theo rolled his eyes, unable to suppress a small grin despite himself, as Pansy's witty banter and Lady Lemongrass's antics lightened the mood. "I just want him to have a peaceful nap. Is that too much to ask?" he huffed, the corners of his mouth betraying his irritation.

As the meal came to a close, Luna stood up, her eyes shimmering with gratitude as she surveyed the room filled with friends and loved ones. "Thank you all for being here today. Your friendship means the world to us, and we're so grateful to share this day with you."

Theo nodded in agreement, his arm protectively wrapped around Luna's waist. "You've all been there for us through thick and thin. Today, as we celebrate our new addition, we want you to know that you are our family, and we couldn't have asked for a better one."

The group raised their glasses in a toast, the sound of clinking glass echoing softly as the sun dipped lower in the sky, casting a golden hue over the gathering. It was a moment of pure joy, a memory they would all cherish for years to come. Laughter mingled with the fading light, a fitting end to a day filled with love and celebration.

As the last of the guests trickled out, Hermione lingered, casting one last glance at the joyful chaos of the afternoon. She felt a warmth in her heart, knowing that these moments were what truly mattered. With her friends by her side and love blossoming in her life, the future looked brighter than ever.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The sun rose on the day of Pansy and Neville's wedding, casting a golden hue over Parkinson Manor, where the estate's sprawling garden had been transformed into an opulent dreamscape. The morning light spilled across the grounds like liquid gold, illuminating the scene with a radiance that felt almost otherworldly. Every inch of the vast garden had been painstakingly curated to reflect the grandeur and elegance that Pansy insisted upon—a perfect balance between extravagance and nature's beauty.

Towering floral arches marked the entrance to the garden, constructed from intricately intertwined roses, orchids, and peonies, all imported from exotic locations. The flowers, in deep shades of crimson, blush pink, and ivory, cascaded over the arches, their heady scent perfuming the air. Each archway was draped with silk ribbons in hues of emerald green and pearlescent ivory, fluttering softly in the gentle breeze. The paths were lined with gold-trimmed lanterns, their delicate frames glinting in the morning light, promising to illuminate the space with a soft, romantic glow as the sun began to set later in the day.

A grand aisle stretched through the center of the garden, the grass beneath replaced by a luxurious white carpet embroidered with the Parkinson and Longbottom family crests in shimmering gold thread. Alongside the aisle stood towering arrangements of white lilies and hydrangeas perched atop crystal vases, their sheer scale designed to impress every guest who stepped foot onto the grounds. Above, hundreds of enchanted fairy lights twinkled like stars, even in daylight, casting a magical ambiance over the entire affair.

At the far end of the aisle, the ceremony space had been framed by a canopy of silvered branches and cascading wisteria, creating a fairytale-like setting for Pansy and Neville to exchange their vows. The altar itself was carved from white marble, veined with delicate gold, and adorned with rare blooms that shimmered with an ethereal glow—enchanted just for the occasion. Behind the altar, a shimmering fountain of crystal-clear water flowed into an elaborate pool, reflecting the entire garden in its mirror-like surface, making the scene feel infinite.

Gold and silver chairs with plush velvet cushions were arranged in perfect symmetry, each tied with elaborate bows of satin ribbon. The guests would sit surrounded by beauty, luxury, and the serene sounds of a harpist playing soft, romantic melodies nearby. Exotic birds, charmed to sing the sweetest songs, were perched in delicate golden cages hung strategically throughout the garden, their melodies harmonizing with the ambient music.

No expense had been spared—Pansy had ensured that her wedding would be remembered as one of the most extravagant affairs in recent history. Chandeliers made of enchanted crystal hung from towering trees, casting soft prisms of light that danced across the garden as if the very air had come alive. At the edge of the estate, where the garden met the manor, an open-air pavilion had been erected for the reception, its roof of translucent glass enchanted to shimmer like the night sky once darkness fell.

It wasn't just a garden; it was a masterpiece—a stunning fusion of nature's beauty and human craft. Every detail, from the lavish floral arrangements to the sparkling fountain, reflected the opulence and luxury that Pansy had envisioned. Yet despite all the grandeur, there was an undeniable intimacy to the setting, as if the garden itself was wrapping its arms around the soon-to-be-wedded couple, cradling them in a world of magic and love.

It was, in every way, perfect. The stage was set for the union of two souls who had found their way to each other, and in this garden—under the golden light of the sun—their journey would continue, bathed in the splendor of a day that was nothing short of extraordinary.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Inside her suite, Pansy stood amid a whirlwind of activity, her heart racing with a mix of anticipation and disbelief. The air was thick with excitement, and the atmosphere crackled with the energy of her closest friends, who had gathered to celebrate this monumental day with her. Laughter and chatter filled the room as her bridesmaids flitted about, adjusting the delicate folds of her gown—a stunning phthalo green creation that flowed like liquid silk. The color, reminiscent of emeralds glistening under sunlight, made her feel vibrant and alive, the intricate lace detailing and shimmering beading catching the light just right, creating an ethereal glow around her.

"Pansy, you look absolutely radiant!" Hermione exclaimed as she stepped back, admiring the way the gown hugged her figure. Hermione's voice was filled with genuine awe, and Pansy couldn't help but smile at her friend's enthusiastic support. The two had been through so much together, and in this moment, it felt as if all their shared memories had led them here, to this beautiful culmination of love and friendship.

" Just wait until you see her from the front," Ginny chimed in, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "I can't believe Neville is going to be the luckiest man alive!" She adjusted Pansy's veil, making sure it fell perfectly in place, a gesture that made Pansy's heart swell with gratitude.

"Let's not forget," Luna added, her voice soft yet melodic, "that this isn't just about the gown or the decorations. This is a celebration of love, and you are surrounded by people who adore you." She smiled, her dreamy expression adding a touch of tranquility to the chaotic energy of the room. Luna's words resonated with her, grounding her amidst the excitement and reminding her of the love that brought them all together.

As she caught a glimpse of herself in the ornate mirror, Pansy felt a whirlwind of emotions crash over her—exhilaration, nervousness, and an overwhelming sense of happiness. "I'm getting married," she whispered to herself, the reality of the moment sinking in. It was a thought so monumental that it felt almost surreal, as if she were a character in a dream rather than the bride standing on the cusp of a new life. She took a deep breath, her chest tightening with the weight of the moment.

"Are you ready?" Hermione asked, her voice tinged with excitement and a hint of anxiety.

"I think so," she replied, trying to quell the butterflies fluttering wildly in her stomach. "I just… I can't believe it's finally happening."

"Of course it's happening!" Ginny said, placing a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "You and Neville are perfect for each other. It's time to celebrate that!"

"Plus," Luna chimed in, her eyes sparkling with a mixture of enthusiasm and mischief, "think of all the wonderful adventures that await you both."

The anticipation of the ceremony weighed heavily in the air, and the friends shared knowing smiles, each one reflecting the love and support they had for Pansy.

"Just imagine," Hermione said, her eyes sparkling, "you'll have a beautiful home filled with laughter, love, and maybe a few new plants, courtesy of Neville."

She giggled at the thought, imagining their cozy home filled with more vibrant greenery and the warmth of shared memories. "I can already see it," she said, her heart swelling with hope.

The time flew by as they continued to prepare, laughter and joy intertwining like the delicate lace of her gown. With each passing moment, her nerves began to dissipate, replaced by a sense of peace and excitement. She could feel the love surrounding her, wrapping her in a warm embrace that reassured her that she was making the right choice.

As the moment to leave approached, she turned to her friends, her heart full of gratitude. "I couldn't have done this without you," she said, her voice thick with emotion. "You've all been my rocks."

Hermione stepped forward, pulling Pansy into a tight hug. "We'll always be here for you, Pansy. No matter what."

Ginny joined in, wrapping her arms around them both. "Absolutely. This is just the beginning of a beautiful journey."

Luna beamed at them, her eyes misty. "You're stepping into a new chapter, and I can't wait to see what the future holds for you."

She felt tears prickle at the corners of her eyes, overwhelmed by the love and support from her friends. She pulled back, wiping her cheeks with the back of her hand, a smile breaking through her emotions. "Alright, enough of that! I don't want to ruin my makeup before the ceremony!"

As the last touches were made—a spritz of her favorite perfume, a delicate adjustment of her veil. The warmth of that thought filled her heart with a profound joy, igniting a spark of excitement for the beautiful day that lay ahead.

At that moment, Pansy felt overwhelmed with gratitude for the support surrounding her. She glanced at the ornate mirror, her heart racing as she took in the reflection of a woman ready to embark on the most significant journey of her life. As her thoughts drifted to Neville, a soft smile crept onto her lips. He had always been her rock, steady and unwavering.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Meanwhile, in a nearby room, Neville paced nervously, fiddling with the cufflinks of his dress robes. He looked dapper in phthalo green, perfectly complementing her gown, but the mirror reflecting his image didn't quite match the turmoil brewing inside him. The vibrant color, meant to symbolize new beginnings, felt like a stark contrast to the storm of anxiety swirling within him. With every passing minute, the reality of what was about to happen weighed heavier on his chest. "What if I trip while walking down the aisle?" he muttered to himself, his voice barely above a whisper. "What if I can't find the right words during the vows? What if I forget everything I've planned to say?"

He took a deep breath, attempting to steady his racing heart. The sound of laughter and joy filtered through the walls, a stark reminder of the celebration happening just beyond his reach. Each laugh felt like a distant echo, emphasizing his growing unease. He imagined Pansy standing in the grand hall, radiant and stunning, while he stood awkwardly, fumbling over his own nerves. What if she looked at him with disappointment? The thought sent a fresh wave of anxiety crashing over him.

His mind darted through a flurry of possibilities. Would he manage to keep his composure? What if he forgot to breathe? Just then, Theo entered the room, a teasing grin plastered across his face, breaking through Neville's spiral of worry.

"Relax, Longbottom," Theo said, the playful tone in his voice cutting through the tension in the air. "You're marrying the love of your life. Just focus on her, and everything will be perfect." He slapped a hand on his back, the gesture both grounding and reassuring. The warmth of Theo's presence helped ease some of the tightness in Neville's chest.

"Easier said than done, mate," he replied, running a hand through his hair in frustration. "What if I mess it all up? What if I'm not good enough for her?"

Theo shook his head, stepping closer. "Listen, Parkinson loves you for who you are, not for some idealized version of yourself. She's not looking for perfection; she's looking for you. You've fought alongside her through thick and thin, and now you're taking this incredible step together."

Just then, Draco strolled in, his demeanor calm yet confident. He arched an eyebrow at the two of them, a smirk dancing at the corners of his mouth. "What's all this fuss about? You're not backing out, are you?" he teased, though his tone held an undercurrent of genuine support.

" No way!" he exclaimed, straightening up. "I just… I want everything to be perfect for Parky. She deserves that."

Draco stepped forward, crossing his arms with a knowing look. "Listen, mate, perfection is overrated. What matters is the love you share. Pansy will see the sincerity in your eyes when you speak your vows. Trust me, the moment you lock eyes with her, everything else will fade away. You'll be in your own little world."

He nodded slowly, absorbing the wisdom in their words. "You really think so?" he asked, his voice softer now, the doubt beginning to fade.

"Absolutely," Theo affirmed, his eyes bright with encouragement. "You and Pansy have something special—something that can weather any storm. It's not just about the wedding; it's about the life you'll build together afterward. And I know you'll make her happy."

Feeling the reassurance of his friends surrounding him, he took a deep breath, letting it out slowly. The nerves were still there, but now they felt more manageable, like butterflies preparing to take flight rather than a suffocating weight pressing down on him.

"You're right," he finally said, his voice stronger now. "I just need to remember that today is about us."

Draco clapped him on the shoulder, a proud grin on his face. "That's the spirit. Now let's get you ready. The last thing we need is for you to be late to your own wedding."

With their support bolstering his confidence, Neville took one last look in the mirror, straightening his tie and adjusting his robes. Today marked the beginning of a beautiful adventure with Pansy, one that he was determined to embrace fully, nerves and all. Together, with his friends by his side, he stepped toward the door, ready to embark on the journey of a lifetime.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Finally, the moment arrived. As the music swelled, guests turned in their seats, eyes fixed on the entrance. Pansy, heart pounding, took her father's arm, her breath hitching as she caught her first glimpse of Neville standing at the altar, his face awash with emotion. Time seemed to slow, and all her doubts melted away. This was it—her forever.

As she walked down the aisle, she felt a wave of love and support enveloping her. The garden, vibrant with blooming flowers and laughter, seemed to fade into the background, leaving only Neville in focus. When their eyes met, it was as if the entire world fell away, leaving just the two of them.

"I can't believe this day is finally here," he murmured as she reached him, his voice thick with emotion.

"I've always dreamed of this moment," she replied softly, her heart swelling with happiness.

The ceremony unfolded beautifully, with heartfelt vows exchanged under the wisteria-draped arch. Each word spoken was laced with love and promises, sealing their commitment in front of family and friends. The moment he kissed her, the world erupted into applause, and she felt as if she were floating, weightless in a sea of joy.

As the reception began, the garden transformed into a magical wonderland. Twinkling lights illuminated the night sky, and laughter filled the air as guests mingled and celebrated. They danced their first dance as a married couple, moving effortlessly in sync, lost in each other. The melody enveloped them, a beautiful reflection of their love.

"We did it, Sassy," he whispered, twirling her around, his eyes sparkling with happiness. "We really did it."

"Yes, we did, my love. And this is just the beginning," she replied, beaming at him.

As the night wore on, friends and family filled the dance floor, laughter echoing through the air. Ginny spun around with Blaise, while Theo and Luna swayed nearby. The atmosphere was electric, a celebration of love and unity.

Pansy couldn't help but feel a profound sense of belonging. Surrounded by their closest friends, she realized how fortunate they were to have such strong bonds. With each clink of glasses and laughter shared, the foundation of their new life together solidified.

Later, as they stood at the edge of the garden, gazing at the stars, he took her hand in his. "I promise to always take care of you, to always be by your side, no matter what."

She looked into his eyes, feeling the sincerity behind his words. "And I promise to always lift you up, to bring out the best in you, and to love you fiercely for all my days."

In that moment, surrounded by the glow of the celebration, they sealed their promises with a kiss—a symbol of their unwavering commitment to one another. The night stretched on, filled with laughter, love, and the promise of a beautiful future together, as Pansy and Neville embarked on this new adventure hand in hand.