Harry Potter One Shots

Christmas Wishes Do Come True - (Fred & Hermione)

Fred Weasley had always been a master of mischief, but as the fifth year at Hogwarts unfolded, he found himself in an unfamiliar territory of emotions. His usual confidence was slipping away whenever he was near Hermione Granger, the brightest witch of her age, and one of his younger brother's best friends. This newfound vulnerability began during the first meetings of Dumbledore's Army, and it only grew more intense as the days passed.

In the Room of Requirement, where the DA met to practice defensive spells, Fred couldn't help but steal glances at Hermione. She was often at the front, her face illuminated by the glow of the enchanted ceiling, her eyes sparkling with determination as she perfected another spell. Fred watched her with a mixture of admiration and yearning, his heart thudding louder with each stolen glance.

George, ever perceptive, noticed his twin's distraction. He saw the way Fred's eyes lingered on Hermione, the way his ears turned a bright shade of red whenever she spoke to him. George chose to keep his observations to himself, knowing how easily his brother could be embarrassed. Instead, he offered silent support, covering for Fred whenever he zoned out or fumbled during their usual banter.

The tension came to a head during the Christmas holidays. The Burrow was bustling with the Weasley family, and Fred found himself constantly distracted by Hermione's presence. She was staying with them, along with Harry, to spend the break together. Fred's attempts to act normal were failing miserably; he was awkward around her, stumbling over his words, and his jokes fell flat, a stark contrast to his usual self.

One cold evening, the Weasley siblings gathered around the fireplace. Laughter filled the room as they exchanged stories and jokes. Fred, however, was quieter than usual, his mind preoccupied with thoughts of Hermione. After a while, he excused himself, mumbling something about needing fresh air. George shot him a knowing look but said nothing.

Fred found Charlie sitting outside, smoking a pipe and gazing up at the stars. He hesitated for a moment, then joined his older brother, the crisp winter air biting at his cheeks.

"Need something, Fred?" Charlie asked, his voice gentle and knowing.

Fred shifted uncomfortably, kicking at the snow. "Yeah, actually. I... I need some advice."

Charlie raised an eyebrow, a small smile playing at the corners of his lips. "Advice? From me? Must be serious."

"It is," Fred admitted, shoving his hands into his pockets. "There's this girl..."

"Ah, a girl," Charlie said, his smile widening. "Anyone I know?"

Fred's cheeks turned an even deeper shade of red. "Yeah. You do. It's... Hermione."

Charlie nodded, as if he had expected this. "Thought so. The whole family knows, you know. Well, except for Ron. He's a bit oblivious when it comes to these things."

Fred groaned, burying his face in his hands. "Everyone knows? Great. Just great."

"Hey, don't worry about it," Charlie said, clapping a reassuring hand on Fred's shoulder. "It's nothing to be embarrassed about. Hermione's a great girl."

"Yeah, she is," Fred agreed softly. "But I don't know how to tell her. I mean, what if she doesn't feel the same way?"

Charlie took a moment, choosing his words carefully. "You won't know unless you try, Fred. The key is to be honest. Tell her how you feel, and be yourself. She's smart, she'll appreciate the honesty."

Fred nodded, his mind racing. "But what if she laughs at me? Or thinks I'm just joking?"

Charlie shook his head. "I don't think Hermione would laugh at you. She'll listen. And who knows, she might feel the same way. But you'll never know if you don't take the chance."

Fred took a deep breath, feeling a mix of fear and hope. "Thanks, Charlie. I think I needed to hear that."

"Anytime, little brother," Charlie said, ruffling Fred's hair. "Now, go get some sleep. Tomorrow's Christmas, after all."

Fred went to bed that night with a plan forming in his mind. He would tell Hermione how he felt, no matter how terrifying the prospect seemed.

Christmas morning at the Burrow was a chaotic, joyful affair. The house was filled with laughter, presents, and the delicious aroma of Molly Weasley's cooking. Fred found himself stealing glances at Hermione throughout the day, trying to muster the courage to speak to her.

The opportunity finally presented itself during the Weasley Christmas party. The house was filled with friends and family, all celebrating together. Fred spotted Hermione standing near the mistletoe, chatting with Ginny. His heart pounded in his chest as he made his way over, his palms sweaty despite the cold winter air.

"Hey, Hermione," he said, trying to keep his voice steady.

She turned to him, a warm smile on her face. "Hi, Fred. Merry Christmas."

"Merry Christmas," he replied, swallowing hard. "Can I, uh, talk to you for a minute? In private?"

Hermione looked curious but nodded. "Sure."

Fred led her to a quieter corner of the room, taking a deep breath. "Hermione, there's something I need to tell you. It's been driving me mad for months now."

Hermione's eyes widened slightly, but she stayed silent, waiting for him to continue.

Fred rubbed the back of his neck nervously. "I... I like you, Hermione. A lot. More than just as a friend. And I didn't know how to tell you, or if you'd even feel the same way. But I had to tell you. I couldn't keep it to myself any longer."

For a moment, there was silence. Fred's heart felt like it was about to explode. Then, to his surprise, Hermione's face broke into a smile.

"Fred, I... I like you too. I didn't know if you felt the same way, but I've had feelings for you for a while now."

Fred's relief was palpable. He let out a breath he hadn't realized he was holding. "Really? You do?"

Hermione nodded, her cheeks turning a lovely shade of pink. "Really."

Before either of them could say another word, George's voice rang out from across the room. "Oi, Fred! Look up!"

They both glanced upward to see the mistletoe hanging above them. Fred chuckled nervously, feeling his face heat up.

"Well, I guess we have to follow tradition," he said, his voice a bit shaky.

Hermione smiled, stepping closer. "I guess we do."

And then, under the mistletoe and surrounded by the warmth and love of the Weasley Christmas, Fred leaned in and kissed Hermione. It was a sweet, gentle kiss, filled with all the feelings they had kept hidden for so long. When they finally pulled apart, Fred looked into Hermione's eyes and saw nothing but happiness.

"Best Christmas ever," he whispered.

Hermione nodded, her smile radiant. "Definitely."

As the party continued around them, Fred felt like he was walking on air. For the first time in months, the uncertainty and longing were gone, replaced by a newfound joy and excitement for what lay ahead. And with Hermione by his side, he knew this was just the beginning of something wonderful.