The ballroom was a sight to behold—lavishly decorated with enchanted snowflakes drifting lazily in the air, chandeliers glowing with magical lights, and tables set with shimmering silverware. The crowd consisted of impeccably dressed witches and wizards, representing the elite of the Wizarding World. As Harry and Ruby, followed by Draco and Hermione, descended the grand staircase, murmurs rippled through the room.

Harry's confident presence and Ruby's grace on his arm impressed everyone. His tuxedo emphasized his transformation from a boy into a young leader, while Ruby's regal appearance captivated the crowd. The onlookers could not help but acknowledge the Potters' commanding aura. Meanwhile, Draco and Hermione were a striking pair, complementing the scene with their charm.

As Harry and Ruby reached the base of the stairs, Cornelius Fudge made his way through the crowd to greet them, flanked by Lucius Malfoy, who maintained a proud expression.

"Ah, Harry Potter," Fudge began, his voice warm and slightly respectful. "It is an honor to meet you finally. I am Cornelius Fudge, the newest Minister of Britain's Ministry of Magic." He greeted.

Harry offered a polite smile and extended his hand, firmly shaking the Minister's hand. "Minister Fudge, it's also a pleasure to meet you. I have heard so many wonderful things about you through my Guardians," his gaze flickers to Lucius.

Fudge beamed at the young wizard's composed response. "You carry the dignity of a Pureblood Lord with ease," he said, his gaze shifting momentarily to Ruby. "And this must be your lovely wife."

Ruby inclined her head gracefully. "Minister Fudge," she greeted, her voice soft yet clear, "it's an honor to meet you. As Minister of our World, please take good care of us."

The Minister appeared both charmed and intrigued. "Your poise is remarkable, Lady Potter. And of course."

Lucius stepped in smoothly, adding, "Minister, I trust that the presence of Harry and Ruby tonight will solidify our confidence in the next generation. They represent the strength of their lineage and the unity our society so desperately needs."

Fudge nodded thoughtfully, his respect for Harry and Ruby evident. He knew that aligning himself with them could prove valuable politically. Turning back to the couple, he said, "I hope this evening is the first of many opportunities for us to work together to better our world. If you ever need support, my office is always open."

As the Minister greeted other guests, Lucius leaned toward Harry and Ruby. "You handled yourselves admirably," he said quietly, his tone almost approving. "The Minister will undoubtedly spread the word of your grace and competence. Tonight is crucial in solidifying your place within the Wizarding elite."

Harry gave a slight nod, feeling the weight of his responsibilities but reassured by Ruby's presence. "We couldn't have done it without your guidance, Mr. Malfoy," he replied, glancing at Ruby, who smiled encouragingly.

The ballroom buzzed with renewed energy as the quartet continued to mingle. Ruby received compliments from various Pureblood families while Harry discussed his plans for the future. Together, they were a formidable pair, their bond and unity radiating strength that left a lasting impression on everyone in attendance.

The ballroom's warm glow and lively chatter created a perfect setting for the younger attendees to enjoy themselves away from the adults' political discussions. Harry, Ruby, Draco, Hermione, Daphne, Astoria, Blaise, and Susan gathered near a quieter corner where they could converse more freely.

Ruby warmly smiled as Daphne admired her dress. "Your royal blue gown is simply stunning, Ruby! It complements your eyes beautifully," Daphne remarked, earning a soft blush from Ruby.

"Hermione! I love what you are wearing," Daphne smiled, admiring Hermione's dress.

Hermione chuckled, running her fingers along the intricate snowflake designs on her dress. "Thank you, Daphne. Your gown is equally beautiful," she said, gesturing to Daphne's emerald-green ensemble, which perfectly brings out her striking icy blue eyes.

Astoria, the younger Greengrass sister, who had a playful and curious demeanor, chimed in. "Is this your first time at a ball, Ruby? You look like a natural."

Ruby nodded. "It is. I wasn't sure what to expect, but everyone has been kind. And these dresses! Wizarding fashion is truly magical."

Susan, who was wearing a soft lavender gown, smiled and added, "I love how unique Wizarding fashion can be. You know, a boutique in Diagon Alley uses charmed fabrics. The dresses shimmer differently depending on the lighting."

The girls then eagerly shared their favorite holiday memories, from Daphne and Astoria's ice-skating adventures to Susan and her aunt, Amelia Bones, a notable figure in the Ministry of Magic, who is in attendance at the ball, going sightseeing. Ruby and Hermione listened intently, enjoying the friendship and the ease with which they connected.

Meanwhile, Harry, Draco, and Blaise stood a short distance away, discussing their favorite topic: Quidditch.

"I still think Puddlemere United has the best lineup this season," Blaise stated confidently, adjusting his tailored black tuxedo.

Draco rolled his eyes, crossing his arms. "Please. The Falmouth Falcons have better Chasers. Their last match was practically a clinic on how to dominate the pitch."

Harry grinned, adding, "I'm not picking sides, but I'd love to see them face off. It'd be a match worth watching."

Though they kept up the lively debate, each boy occasionally glanced at the girls they admired.

Draco's eyes softened when they landed on Hermione, who was laughing at one of Astoria's animated stories. She's nothing like I imagined a Muggle-born to be, he thought. She's... amazing.

Blaise's gaze fell on Susan, her laughter lighting up her face. He admired her strength and grace, which reminded him why he enjoyed her company so much when they were at Hogwarts, hanging out with the others.

Harry, however, couldn't look away from Ruby. Her animated gestures, the sparkle in her eyes, and how her red hair caught the light made his heart race. I can't take my eyes off her.

Eventually, Ruby caught Harry's gaze and tilted her Head, a playful smile curving her lips. "What are you three talking about over there?" she called out, breaking the boys' trance.

"Quidditch," Harry replied with a grin as he walked over to join her, the others following suit.

"Of course, it's Quidditch," Ruby teased, nudging him lightly.

Draco smirked and turned to Hermione. "And what about you? What's so fascinating that you've left us out?"

Hermione raised an eyebrow. "Oh, just dresses and holiday plans. You wouldn't understand."

The group laughed, and the atmosphere was light and easy. Together, they decided to move toward the refreshment table, where butterbeer and enchanted pastries awaited, their evening full of youthful joy amidst the grandeur of the ball.

As the group at the refreshment table enjoyed their drinks and pastries, the air was lighthearted, with laughter and friendly teasing. However, in a darker corner of the ballroom, Pansy Parkinson's eyes burned with jealousy as she observed the girls surrounded by the attention of the most sought-after boys of their generation.

Pansy's lips curled into a sneer as she leaned toward Flora and Hestia Carrow. "Look at them," she hissed. "Ruby prancing around like she's some high-born lady, and Granger pretending she belongs here. It's pathetic."

Flora, lazily twirling her hair, shrugged. "They do seem to be the center of attention tonight."

Hestia sighed dramatically, clearly uninterested. "But why does it bother you so much, Pansy?"

"Because," Pansy snapped, her voice low but sharp, "Ruby isn't fit to be the Potter Lady. She's just a pretender who stumbled into the spotlight. And Hermione? Don't get me started. A Muggle-born—even if adopted by Dagworth-Granger—is still a Muggle-born." She clenched her fists. "Draco should be paying attention to me, not her."

The Carrow twins exchanged glances, knowing Pansy's fixation on Draco was the real reason for her anger.

"So, what's your plan?" Flora asked, a sly grin forming.

Pansy smirked, her voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper. "We'll give those two a lesson in humility. Let's see how much attention they get then."

Flora chuckled darkly. "That could be amusing. All those Purebloods watching them flounder... it'll be a spectacle."

Hestia hesitated for a moment before nodding. "Fine. But if we get caught, this is on you, Pansy."

"Don't worry," Pansy said confidently. "I'll make sure no one suspects a thing."

While everyone was conversing and enjoying drinks and treats at the refreshment table, Ruby decided to get some air and went outside. Even though it was cold, Ruby felt warm thanks to the enchantment around the Manor placed by Dobby and the other house elves.

Ruby deeply inhaled, allowing the crisp, enchanted air to calm her nerves. The stars sparkled brightly overhead, their light casting a soft glow across the manicured gardens. She wandered to the center of the patio, gazing at the fountain bubbling nearby, lost in thought.

Above her, Pansy Parkinson and the Carrow twins stifled their giggles as they positioned themselves on the balcony. Their plan, hastily concocted, was about to be executed. The bucket they had filled with melted chocolate and feathers sat precariously on the railing, ready to tip over with a nudge.

"Are you sure about this?" Flora Carrow whispered, her tone hesitant now that the moment had arrived.

"Of course I am," Pansy hissed, glaring at her. "She deserves this. A reminder that she's nothing but a pretender."

Hestia gave a half-hearted nod, gripping the bucket. "Fine, let's just get it over with."

Pansy smirked, her gaze fixated on Ruby below, utterly unaware of the ambush. "One... two... three!"

With one swift motion, the bucket tipped over, and the contents cascaded down.

Ruby barely had time to react. Warm, sticky chocolate splashed over her Head, dripping down her elegant dress and into her hair. Feathers followed, sticking to the chocolate and covering her completely.

Her startled scream echoed through the backyard, shattering the peaceful atmosphere. She instinctively stepped back, trembling with shock and embarrassment as she tried to wipe the mess from her face.

Inside the ballroom, conversations halted abruptly at the sound of Ruby's cry. Harry's head snapped toward the open doorway, his heart lurching at the sound. Without a second thought, he pushed past the guests surrounding him and sprinted, focusing only on Ruby.

The trio on the balcony peered down, watching the aftermath of their prank. Pansy laughed softly, but her confidence wavered as she saw the scene below.

"Let's get out of here," Flora murmured, tugging Pansy's sleeve.

But it was too late. The damage was done, and their actions set the stage for an explosive confrontation.

The laughter of the ballroom died instantly as Ruby stepped inside, drenched in chocolate and feathers, her cheeks stained with tears. A shocked silence hung in the air as every eye turned to her, some filled with confusion, others with pity.

Harry's emerald green eyes burned with fury. A crackling, noticeable energy emanated from him, making the chandeliers tremble and a faint hum resonate through the air. Even the adults, engrossed moments ago in their discussions, froze, sensing the unmistakable aura of Ancient Magic.

Harry was at Ruby's side in moments. He reached out to her gently, his hands trembling as he tried to comfort her. "Ruby," he whispered, his voice tight with rage, "who did this to you?"

But Ruby couldn't answer. Her sobs grew louder as Narcissa rushed forward, draping a soft shawl around Ruby's shoulders. "It's all right, dear," Narcissa said soothingly, leading her away from the center of attention. Daphne, Astoria, Susan, and Hermione quickly joined, surrounding Ruby protectively, their expressions a mixture of worry and anger.

"Who did this?" Harry's voice was low, cold, and deadly, cutting through the silence like a blade.

Draco and Blaise flanked Harry, their postures tense as they scanned the room. Draco's gaze hardened when he saw Pansy Parkinson and the Carrow twins sneak into the ballroom. Pansy saw Draco looking at her, her face pale and uneasy, standing with Flora and Hestia Carrow.

"Potter asked a question," Draco said icily, his steely gaze locking on Pansy. "Whoever is responsible, speak now, or I'll make sure you regret staying silent."

The weight of Draco's threat made Pansy shrink slightly. Flora and Hestia exchanged nervous glances, realizing their involvement in Pansy's scheme might cost them dearly.

Cornelius Fudge, still processing the scene, stepped forward cautiously. "Now, now, let's not escalate matters. Surely, we can resolve this without unnecessary tension."

Harry turned his gaze to Fudge, the raw power in his eyes making the Minister falter. "This isn't your concern, Minister," Harry said curtly. "This is about my wife's dignity."

Lucius Malfoy stepped beside Narcissa, his expression unreadable, but his sharp eyes narrowed at Pansy. "If someone within my home has acted dishonorably toward Lady Potter, I will see they are held accountable," he said, his tone leaving no room for argument.

Pansy stammered, "I-I don't know what you're talking about!" But her trembling hands betrayed her guilt.

From her position beside Ruby, Hermione's gaze sharpened as she stepped forward, her voice steady and cutting. "Lying won't help you, Pansy. We all know you have a history of pulling petty pranks when you feel insecure."

The crowd began murmuring, their attention turning to Pansy, who looked cornered. Flora and Hestia shifted uncomfortably, realizing that denial would only worsen things.

Before Pansy could retort, Blaise spoke up, his voice calm yet dangerously smooth. "You might want to think carefully about your next words, Pansy. Whatever you say now will determine whether this stays between us—or becomes a scandal the entire Wizarding world talks about tomorrow."

Pansy's resolve crumbled. She blurted out, "It was just a joke! I didn't mean for it to go this far!"

Harry took a step forward, his fists clenched, his magic surging so strongly that the temperature in the room seemed to drop. "A joke? You think humiliating my wife in front of everyone is a joke?"

Pansy paled, realizing the gravity of her mistake.

Narcissa, ever composed, placed a gentle hand on Harry's shoulder. "Harry," she said softly, "Ruby needs you more than Pansy deserves your anger."

Her words brought Harry back from the edge of unleashing his magic. He turned to Ruby, who was now trembling slightly as Daphne and Hermione helped clean her up.

"I'm here, Ruby," Harry said, his voice softening as he approached her. "No one will ever treat you like this again. I promise."

Lucius stepped forward, addressing the entire room. "This incident will not go unpunished. Pansy Parkinson, you have not only insulted a guest in my home but dishonored the Malfoy name by your actions. You will leave this ball immediately, and your parents will leave because of your disgraceful behavior."

Flora and Hestia tried to slink away, but Draco's sharp voice stopped them. "And you two," he said coldly, "are just as responsible. Don't think for a second that you'll escape the consequences."

As house elves appeared to escort the trio and their families out, the crowd watched in silence, their disapproval noticeable.

Harry turned back to Ruby, taking her hands in his. "Are you all right?" he asked gently.

Ruby nodded hesitantly, her tears subsiding as she looked into his reassuring gaze. "I'll be okay," she whispered.

With a determined expression, Harry led her out of the ballroom, the incident only to strengthen the bonds among them—and leaving no doubt in anyone's mind that Harry would go to any lengths to protect the people he loved.

Harry and Ruby excused themselves from the ballroom. Harry then escorted Ruby to her bedroom so that she could wear something comfortable.

The door to Ruby's bedroom closed softly behind them as Harry stepped inside, his protective instincts still flaring. His thoughts were a whirlwind of anger, but he focused on Ruby, wanting nothing more than to ensure she was okay after the humiliation she'd just endured.

"Are you sure you're alright?" Harry asked for what felt like the tenth time, his voice filled with concern. He followed her as she walked to her wardrobe, giving her space to change into something more comfortable.

Ruby glanced back at him with a soft smile, her face now clean from chocolate and feathers thanks to Narcissa using a cleaning spell on her earlier. Although her eyes still carried the sting of what had happened. "I'm fine, Harry. Just a bit bummed, you know? I was looking forward to tonight."

Harry's back to Ruby. He nodded, understanding her disappointment. He wanted to say more, to make everything better, but he knew there was little that could be done. He didn't want the night to be ruined for her entirely, so he decided to give her the comfort she deserved.

Once she finished changing into a simple yet elegant outfit that didn't carry the heavy weight of the evening's events, Harry turned and stepped forward, gently brushing a stray lock of hair from her face. "If you need anything, just let me know. I'm here."

Ruby looked up at him with a grateful expression. "Thank you, Harry. For defending me. I don't know what I'd do without you."

Harry offered a small, reassuring smile. "I'll always protect you, Ruby. No one gets to treat you that way. Not while I'm around."

He paused, feeling the weight of the situation still hanging in the air. "Do you want to talk about it? Or we can... forget for a while?"

Ruby shook her head softly. "I think I just want to be with you. For now, that's all I need."

Harry nodded and called for Dobby, asking him to bring them something to eat. Moments later, the house-elf appeared with a tray filled with steaming mugs of hot chocolate and a plate of assorted pastries.

"Here you go, Master Harry, Lady Ruby! Dobby hopes you enjoy," the house-elf chirped, his ears twitching excitedly before disappearing into the shadows.

Ruby smiled faintly as she took a mug of hot chocolate from Harry, the warmth from the drink bringing a slight relief from the chill that still lingered in her bones. They sat on her bed, nestled together as they ate and drank, enjoying the peacefulness of the moment. The sounds of the fireworks outside echoed through the windows, signaling the arrival of the New Year.

"Happy New Year, Ruby," Harry said, his voice soft as he leaned back, his gaze meeting hers.

Ruby returned his smile. "Happy New Year, Harry."

There was a quiet moment between them, the world outside fading away as they sat there, wrapped in the simplicity of each other's company. Without a word, Ruby stood up and walked toward the balcony. Harry followed her, his heart racing slightly in anticipation of whatever this night could bring.

The cool night air greeted them as they stepped outside, the colorful fireworks painting the sky with bright red, gold, and green streaks. The Manor was quiet, except for the voices downstairs at the ball and the soft fireworks in the distance. Ruby leaned against the railing, her eyes reflecting the dazzling colors above them.

"It's beautiful," she murmured, her voice distant as she watched the night sky.

Harry stepped beside her, admiring the fireworks and keeping his eyes on her. "Yeah. It is."

He reached out and took her hand, the contact grounding him as the noise and chaos of the ball slowly disappeared into the background. He turned to her, his eyes soft and sincere. "I'm glad I'm here with you."

Ruby met his gaze, and for a moment, everything else faded away. The ball, the humiliation, the frustrations—none mattered in that moment.

"Me too," she whispered, her heart beating as fast as his.

Before Harry could say anything else, Ruby softly kissed him. The sensation was gentle, sweet, and full of unspoken affection. The world seemed to stop around them as Harry stood there, frozen, feeling the warmth of the kiss settle into his chest.

When Ruby pulled back, her cheeks flushed slightly; she gave him a playful smile. "Happy New Year, Harry," she whispered again before turning to reenter the room, her fingers brushing against his.

Harry stood there for a moment longer, his heart still racing. He touched his lips, a smile forming on his face as he let the feeling of his first kiss with Ruby wash over him. This moment, this connection, was something he would treasure forever.