With Christmas break drawing closer, the atmosphere at Hogwarts shifted. The halls were decorated with shimmering icicles and enchanted snowflakes, and the warmth of the common rooms became a welcome refuge from the bitter cold outside.
Ezekiel found himself caught between Quidditch, studies, and stolen moments with Daphne. Their relationship had grown bolder, more intense, yet there was an underlying warmth—a steady flame that refused to waver.
---
It was late when Ezekiel found himself being pulled through the hidden door of the Room of Requirement. Daphne had insisted they needed privacy before the break, and he hadn't argued.
Inside, the room had transformed into a cozy retreat—soft rugs, flickering candles, and a large bed covered in deep sapphire silk.
Ezekiel raised an eyebrow. "Someone came prepared."
Daphne smirked, pulling him closer. "You've been distracted lately."
He chuckled, hands settling at her waist. "You always know how to fix that."
She hummed in agreement before pressing her lips to his—slow, teasing, but demanding.
The night stretched on, filled with soft sighs, whispered names, and lingering touches. By the time they finally lay entangled in the sheets, Daphne rested her head against his chest, tracing lazy patterns over his skin.
"Are you ready for Christmas?" she murmured.
Ezekiel sighed, running his fingers through her hair. "I am. But our wedding is approaching fast."
She lifted her head slightly, her gaze serious. "Are you worried?"
"Not about us." He smirked. "Just about how much our mothers will meddle."
Daphne laughed softly. "Oh, they're definitely going to take over everything."
He kissed her forehead. "As long as you're by my side, I don't care what they plan."
She smiled, pressing closer. "Good answer."
---
The next morning, the Great Hall was buzzing with excitement. Students were discussing their plans—some staying, others preparing to return home for the holidays.
Alys bounced into her seat at the Slytherin table, nudging Daphne. "Are you ready for the Malverne Christmas celebrations?"
Daphne smirked. "As ready as I can be."
Ezekiel, sitting nearby, chuckled. "You'll be fine. Just be prepared for a lot of formality."
Alys rolled her eyes. "And presents. Lots of presents."
Daphne arched a brow. "Are you expecting something extravagant?"
Alys grinned. "From my dear brother? Of course."
Ezekiel sighed, ruffling her hair. "I'll see what I can do."
Elena and Adrian Selwyn arrived at the Ravenclaw table, sliding into their seats. "So, Malverne, when's the wedding?" Elena teased.
Ezekiel smirked. "26th of December."
Adrian let out a low whistle. "Damn, no time to breathe after Christmas."
Daphne rolled her eyes. "It's tradition."
Elena leaned on the table. "And Fleur? She's still in France, right?"
Ezekiel nodded. "Yes, but she'll be at the wedding."
Daphne exchanged a look with him before smirking. "We've already worked things out."
Elena raised a brow. "That was fast."
Daphne shrugged. "We're practical people."
Ezekiel chuckled, shaking his head. "That's one way to put it."
---
As the days dwindled down, Ezekiel found himself standing in the Owlery, sending a letter to Fleur.
Fleur,
I'll be home soon. Our wedding is set, and I know you'll be there. I look forward to seeing you again.
Ezekiel.
He watched as the owl soared into the sky, disappearing into the distance.
Christmas was coming, and with it, a new chapter in his life.
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