Christmas was coming. One morning in mid-December, Hogwarts woke to find itself covered in several feet of snow. The lake froze solid and the Weasley twins were punished for bewitching several snowballs so that they followed Quirrell around, bouncing off the back of his turban. The few owls that managed to battle their way through the stormy sky to deliver mail had to be nursed back to health by Hagrid before they could fly off again.

No one could wait for the holidays to start. While the Slytherin common room and the Great Hall had roaring fires, the drafty corridors had become icy and a bitter wind rattled the windows in the classrooms. Worst of all were Professor Snape's classes down in the dungeons, where their breath rose in a mist before them and they kept as close as possible to their hot cauldrons.

"I do feel so sorry," said Malfoy, one Potions class, "for all those people who have to stay at Hogwarts for Christmas because they're not wanted at home."

He was looking over at Harry as he spoke. Crabbe and Goyle chuckled. The boy, who was measuring out powdered spine of lionfish, ignored them. Malfoy had been even more unpleasant than usual since the Quidditch match. Disgusted that the Slytherins had lost, he had tried to get everyone laughing at how a wide-mouthed tree frog would be replacing Harry as Seeker next. Then he'd realised that nobody found this funny, because they were all so impressed at the way Harry had managed to stay on his bucking broomstick. So Malfoy, jealous and angry, had gone back to taunting Harry about having no proper family.

Johnny was going home for a week, and then spending Christmas at Daphne's house with his friends.

When they left the dungeons at the end of Potions, they found a large fir tree blocking the corridor ahead. Two enormous feet sticking out at the bottom and a loud puffing sound told them that Hagrid was behind it. Johnny, Pansy, Daphne, Blaise and Theo were behind Hermione, Harry, Lyons and Weasley.

"Hi, Hagrid, want any help?" Weasley asked, sticking his head through the branches.

"Nah, I'm all right, thanks, Ron."

"Would you mind moving out of the way?" came Malfoy's cold drawl from behind them. "Are you trying to earn some extra money, Weasley? Hoping to be gamekeeper yourself when you leave Hogwarts, I suppose -- that hut of Hagrid's must seem like a palace compared to what your family's used to."

Ron dived at Malfoy just as Snape came up the stairs.

"WEASLEY!"

Ron let go of the front of Malfoy's robes.

"He was provoked, Professor Snape," said Hagrid, sticking his huge hairy face out from behind the tree. "Malfoy was insultin' his family."

"Be that as it may, fighting is against Hogwarts rules, Hagrid," said Snape silkily. "Five points from Gryffindor, Weasley, and be grateful it isn't more. Move along, all of you."

Malfoy, Crabbe, and Goyle pushed roughly past the tree, scattering needles everywhere and smirking. Johnny and his group walked past without a glance.

Johnny treasured the moments he spent with his father, Luca, and his older sister, Caterina, before heading to Daphne's. Their time together was always filled with love, laughter, and a sense of connection that Johnny held dear.

On a crisp winter morning, Johnny found himself in the cozy living room of his family home. The fireplace crackled, casting a warm glow throughout the room. Luca sat in his favorite armchair, reading a book, while Caterina flipped through a magazine.

Johnny approached his father, a smile spreading across his face. "Morning, Pa. Have you seen Transfiguration book? I need to ask Daphne a a question about the new spell."

Luca looked up from his book, his brow furrowed. "What spell? Explain it to us, we're not quite familiar with the magical world."

Johnny's smile widened, and he sat down on the sofa, eager to share with his family. "Of course. In the wizarding world, we use wands to perform magic. They're like a tool that helps us channel our magic. With a wave of my wand and the right incantation, I can make things levitate, conjure objects, and change things."

Caterina's eyes widened with curiosity. "That sounds awesome! Can you show us some magic?"

"I can't," Johnny frowned. "I'm not allowed to do magic outside of school."

Caterina leaned forward, her interest still piqued. "Do you have any creatures as pets, Johnny?"

Johnny chuckled. "Not exactly pets, but we do have magical creatures at Hogwarts. There are owls that deliver our mail, unicorns that roam the Forbidden Forest, and even a giant squid that lives in the lake."

Luca and Caterina listened intently as Johnny shared more stories and explained various aspects of the wizarding world. They asked questions, their curiosity sparked by his descriptions.

As they sat around the dining table, enjoying the meal prepared by Luca, the conversation flowed effortlessly. Luca shared stories from his day at work, while Caterina talked about her latest art project. Johnny listened attentively, eagerly joining in with his own tales from the wizarding world.

Suddenly, two distinct knocks echoed through the house, interrupting their conversation. Johnny's heart skipped a beat, recognising the familiar sound. "That must be Daphne and Pansy!" he exclaimed, excitement bubbling within him.

Luca raised an eyebrow, a mischievous smile playing on his lips. "Ah, Johnny, is one of them your girlfriend?"

Johnny's face turned bright red, embarrassment flooding his cheeks. "Pa!" he stammered, trying to hide his blushing face. "They're just my friends, I promise."

Caterina giggled, clearly enjoying her brother's discomfort. "Don't worry, Johnny. We won't tease you too much."

"Hi," the two girls giggled in unison when Johnny sprinted to the door. His cheeks flushed when they rushed to hug him, feeling his family's eyes on him. Once the introductions were done and the goodbyes were said, the trio arrived at Greengrass Manor in the hills of the Brecon Beacons in South Wales.

It was cold up here. A light blanket of snow laid across the ground as the trio clutched their coats closer to their bodies.

As Johnny approached Greengrass Manor, the grandness of the estate came into view. The manor stood tall and majestic against the wintry landscape, its stone walls and gothic architecture exuding an air of elegance and mystery.

"Now, our parents aren't here at the moment, but we've told them you're a Pureblood, an Italian Pureblood, your name is Johnathan Aracnide," Daphne informed him as they passed the magical gates.

"Johnathan Aracnide, nice," Johnny nodded approvingly.

The trio made their way up the winding path leading to the main entrance, their footsteps crunching softly in the snow. The large wooden doors swung open, revealing a warm and inviting foyer adorned with antique furniture and artwork.

"You have dress robes, right?" Pansy asked when Minty, the House-Elf, who had given Johnny quite a fright at first, took their coats and their scarfs.

"Daph!" A voice called out before Johnny could respond. There was a blur of movement and the sound of Daphne grunting before Johnny and Pansy saw a smaller girl hanging around Daphne's waist.

"Hi, Tori," Daphne groaned, motioning to her two friends. "This is Johnny and Pansy."

"Hi!" The girl said excitedly. "I'm Astoria, most people call me Tori though."

"Well aren't you just the cutest thing," Pansy gushed, causing Astoria to flush.

Astoria blushed at Pansy's compliment, a shy smile tugging at the corners of her lips. She shifted nervously, feeling a bit self-conscious under Pansy's scrutiny.

"Thank you," she replied softly, her voice filled with genuine appreciation. "It's nice to meet you both. Daphne has told me so much about you in her letters home."

Johnny couldn't help but chuckle at Daphne's exasperated expression. "So, Tori, are you excited for the evening?" he asked, trying to ease any nervousness she might be feeling.

Astoria's eyes lit up with excitement as she nodded eagerly. "Oh, absolutely! I've heard so much about the parties my family hold, and I can't wait to experience it for myself."

Pansy grinned mischievously. "Well, Tori, you're in for a treat. Your family knows how to throw a party like no other. Prepare to be dazzled."

As Minty returned with their dress robes neatly folded, Pansy turned to Johnny and Daphne. "Shall we get ready then? We don't want to keep the others waiting."

With a nod of agreement, the trio made their way to their designated rooms, anticipation buzzing in the air.

Johnny stood in front of the full-length mirror, a mixture of excitement and nervousness coursing through him. He had never dressed this fancy in his life, and he couldn't help but feel a bit out of his element. But tonight was a special occasion, and he wanted to make a good impression.

With determined focus, Johnny carefully put on a white shirt with subtle blue stripes, a perfect complement to his suit. Johnny buttoned it up meticulously, taking time to straighten the collar and cuffs. The crispness of the shirt made him feel a sense of sophistication he had never experienced before.

Next, a fine navy suit. Feeling the smooth fabric against his skin. He adjusted the fit, ensuring that it hugged his frame just right. The suit brought out the vibrant blue of his eyes, making them shine with a newfound confidence.

As he stood there, contemplating his next step, his gaze fell upon the rust-colored tie resting on the dresser. It was a bold choice, one that Pansy had encouraged him to try. With a hint of hesitation, Johnny carefully tied the tie, making sure it was neither too tight nor too loose. The warm earthy tones of the tie added a touch of personality to his ensemble, reflecting his down-to-earth nature.

Johnny reached for the silver cufflinks, their polished sheen catching the light. He fastened them onto his shirt cuffs, the metallic glimmer adding a touch of elegance to his overall look. It was a small detail, but one that made him feel a sense of completeness.

Finally, he slipped on his highly polished black shoes, admiring their sleek design. With each step he took, he felt a newfound sense of confidence and poise. It was as if the clothes themselves were imbuing him with a different persona, one that was ready to embrace the grandeur of the evening.

Taking one last look in the mirror, Johnny couldn't help but smile at the transformation. He was no longer the boy from humble beginnings, but a young man ready to step into a world of opulence and enchantment. Tonight, he would make memories that would last a lifetime, and he was determined to make the most of this extraordinary evening at Greengrass Manor.

"Well don't you look dashing," Pansy whistled lowly when Johnny stepped out of his room. She was wearing a ball gown, a rust colour that matched Johnny's tie.

"A-and you l-look b-beautiful," Johnny stammered nervously, his cheeks flushed at Pansy's compliment. Pansy giggled, linking her arm through his as they made their way down the staircase.

"Well I've told my family a lot about you, and if you're with me you're safe from prying eyes and listening ears," Pansy explained, and when they reached up and checked over Johnny's collar and tie. "Are you ready to embrace a Pureblood party?"

"I'm nervous," Johnny admitted, chewing on his lower lip. Pansy smiled reassuringly, running her hands down his arms and squeezing his hands.

"Stay close to Daphne, Theo, Blaise and I, and you'll be safe," Pansy reassured him.

"And remember, no matter what happens tonight, I'll be right by your side," Pansy whispered, her voice filled with determination. Johnny felt a surge of gratitude towards her, grateful for her unwavering support.

As they entered the grand ballroom, Johnny couldn't help but be in awe of the opulence surrounding him. Chandeliers glittered from the ceiling, casting a warm glow over the guests, who were elegantly dressed in their finest robes and gowns. The air was filled with laughter and the sound of music, creating a lively atmosphere.

Pansy led Johnny through the crowd, introducing him to various Pureblood families and influential wizards. Each interaction was filled with polite conversation and subtle exchanges of information. Johnny couldn't help but feel a mix of excitement and unease as he navigated through the intricate web of social dynamics.

Throughout the evening, Pansy made sure to keep Johnny close, guiding him through the intricacies of Pureblood etiquette and introducing him to key figures in the wizarding world.

As the night progressed, Johnny's nervousness began to fade, replaced by a growing sense of belonging. He found himself engaged in lively conversations, laughing and enjoying the company of his friends. The worries that had plagued him earlier seemed distant.