Chapter 21 : The Christmas Magic!

                                    

                                          
The soft light of dawn filtered through the heavy velvet curtains, casting a gentle, golden hue across the opulent bedroom. It was Christmas morning, and the world outside was blanketed in a pristine layer of snow, muffling the sounds of the castle and creating a serene, magical stillness. The air inside was crisp with the faint aroma of pine and cinnamon, remnants of the festive decorations and the warm fires that had crackled in the hearth.
Harry Potter lay nestled in his enormous king-sized bed, the luxurious duvet pulled up around him on this cold morning. The bed was a haven of warmth and softness, but something was distinctly missing. His arms, which had been accustomed to the comforting presence of his favourite source of warmth, Hermione, were empty. He reached out reflexively, only to find the cool, empty space beside him where she should have been.
As he blinked awake, the realization that Hermione was not in his arms yet felt like a soft pang, like a subtle uncomfort in the cozy cocoon of his bed. He stretched languorously, feeling the plush mattress conform to his movements, and let his eyes drift around the room. The room was adorned with subtle Christmas decorations: a few strings of fairy lights draped across the mantel, and a small, tastefully decorated Christmas tree in the corner, its ornaments glinting in the morning light. The room was a perfect blend of elegance and festivity, its rich hues of deep reds and golds adding to the warmth of the scene. He was sure this was done by Hermione, Dobby and Elro.
He pulled himself up slightly on one elbow, his gaze scanning the room in search of Hermione. The fire in the hearth had died down to a gentle glow, its embers still flickering with a soft, warm light. A small stack of presents sat on the bedside table, wrapped in gleaming paper and adorned with shimmering ribbons.
The gentle sound of laughter and the soft clinking of dishes from the adjacent room caught his attention. Harry's heart leaped as he realized that Hermione was probably already awake and preparing something special for them both. A tender smile spread across his face as he threw back the covers, revealing his tousled hair and a sleepy but content expression.
He slipped out of bed, the cool floor tiles sending a shiver up his spine. He padded across the room in his bare feet, each step a reminder of the warmth he was leaving behind. As he approached the door, he paused, taking a deep breath and letting the tranquil, festive air fill his lungs. He could already feel the magic of Christmas enveloping him, and he couldn't help but smile, imagining Hermione's bright eyes and the warmth of her presence filling the room.
When he finally stepped into the adjoining room, the sight that met him was one of heartwarming charm. Hermione was the very picture of festive joy and focused determination. Her hair, a cascade of soft curls, was charmingly disheveled, and a rosy flush adorned her cheeks, enhancing her natural beauty. She moved with an effortless grace, her every action radiating warmth and happiness. She was laughing along with a very energetic Erick and her all time guardians Dobby and Elro. The breakfast table they had set up by the window was a marvel of holiday cheer. The early morning light filtered through the glass, illuminating the table with a soft, golden brilliance. The spread was a feast for both the eyes and the senses: warm, buttery pastries, their golden surfaces lightly dusted with sugar, were paired with a vibrant array of fresh fruits- plump strawberries, crisp apples, and juicy oranges. The centerpiece of the table was a silver tray laden with steaming mugs of hot cocoa, topped with fluffy clouds of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon. The rich aroma of cocoa and freshly baked goods mingled in the air, creating an inviting and comforting atmosphere.