Care of Magical Shippers Podcast Episode 19 - Happy Shipmas! A Compilation of Festive Fic (Part 2)

5:39AM Jan 2, 2022

Speakers:

Megs

Keywords:

severus

lily

fred

hermione

harry

fic

george

thought

remus

smell

potions

feel

snape

face

love

orange

looked

mistletoe

james

words

Hello there listener yes use specifically, you should know that sometimes due to the things we discuss on the pod, it might contain potentially triggering content. But the good news is you can always review the episode descriptions for a full list of the warnings applicable to this episode. Oh, and just so you know, this podcast is rated R for really filthy. It includes adult themes and explicit content. So if you're an adult, buckle up, Gird your loins and prepare to flood the basement because we are going down with these ships. Oh, the cannon based world is frightful. But the ships are all delightful. We Stanwyck we used to squick so we pick juice and Fun Fest effec it doesn't show signs of stopping. We can hear your jaw dropping. So excited. We're almost saying to be readings and fan written fg just hit so we both knew this will go down in stone. So just buckle up and sit tight. We've got some gone to perform. By the end of this we'll be writing and reuse. But we know that you love this so please enjoy surprise Christmas show.

Hi, welcome back to Care of Magical shippers podcast is our part two of our happy ship Miss collection of holiday fic that we're reading for you. To get us started. Nathan will be reading us a story by far. We still don't know how to say it. Far bow to daughter, the author of the seduction of Arthur Weasley This one is called unexpected. It's a Remus Lily Severus poly fic, which I'm really excited about. It is a bit angsty with some references to implied abuse but it has a really nice fluffy ending for you. So I hope you enjoy.

Okay, so I have one to read to you. It's a longer one. And it's by far bowtie Dotty whose name you may recognize because we featured a fic of those on our pod before listeners if you're eagle eyed among you will have spotted it. It was to do with Arthur slash Lucius. Well, this one is a Remus Lupin slash Lee Evans Patek slash Severus Snape.

Obviously, so go,

you have plenty of reason to get excited. Now, the only reason I'm slightly nervous to read this to you is because my snake voice is not where it needs to be. We'll run with what I have, and I will try and make it as good for you as I possibly can. Okay, all right. So the summary is Severus is thrilled to receive an invitation to Professor slug horns Christmas party in his fifth year. Finally, he's part of the in group but when Lily invites someone else as her date, he isn't quite sure how to handle his feelings.

Oh, oh, this is yeah, this is rated G so it's a Jeep thing too. So there's that but

where are you seeing these? Oh, yes, I see that. Yeah. I was like, Where are you getting the ratings from usually

from the literal details Okay, anyway, I'm excited considering

what I have to read. Now. This doesn't bode well. Oh, go go go. Severus called the envelope the bomb, I will drop over him at the breakfast table in the great all with some surprise. No one ever sent him mail. His mother claimed they couldn't have an owl given the Muggle neighborhood they lived in. Based on his good friend Billy Evans his ability to keep an owl with her Muggle family, he decided this was simply another lie. This was confirmed for him once he'd offered to buy one summer before his fifth year, he'd started earning money doing his fellow slither ins essays in third year. His essays were always a success, and he'd become even more sought after in fourth year. He could easily afford an hour by now, but his mother still refused. It was because of his father, it wasn't just a Muggle. He was an abuser. Severus spent most of his time these days feeling guilty for leaving his mother alone with him. The only person who assured him he was neither responsible for his mother's decision to stay, nor for his father's abuse was Lily. She was his neighbor back in coke with but here at Hogwarts. She was his only true friend. Despite his lucrative homework business, he wasn't exactly popular. So the beautiful ivory envelope the barn owl dropped was certainly unexpected. Inside was a beautiful piece of parchment, expressing an embossed script that he was invited to Professor Sloan's Christmas party. Severus smiled with self satisfaction and a little excitement. The invitation was confirmation. He was in the slug club. Though he'd been invited to the first event, an awkward dinner with a group of students he had no interested in getting to know more of the lily. He hadn't been entirely sure he would make the cut for the Christmas party. Congratulations, someone said. Severus looked up to see Lucinda talk a lot sat across from him to talk a lot isn't Oh, see. I love that name. I love that name. Because it tells you everything you need to know about Lucinda. I feel I feel her essence in my very soul. Severus looked up to see Lucinda talk a lot sat across from him an ivory invitation of her own in hand. Lucinda was another slither and 50 but she was a prefect and had been named Quidditch captain in the fall. Beyond those public facts Severus knew very little about her. You too, he replied, eyeing her invitation. What do you think Slughorn will bring for you? I hope he brings a big Quidditch professional for me to speak with. She bubbled Severus mustard some semblance of a smile for her and said, I haven't thought about it too much. Oh, don't be modest. Of course you have. It's the entire point of being in the slug club. Severus had indeed thought about this more than he cared to admit to Lucinda, whom he hardly knew. So he gave her a shrug and stood up. We don't know listen to either, or it's fine. We don't know her. I need to get to class. He said, Oh, me too. We can talk more about it in the common room. See you then. Severus nodded vaguely and bolted for the large double doors. The idea of continuing that conversation was not one he wished to dwell on now, let alone actually pursue in practice later, there was only one person who was interested in discussing the Christmas party with and thankfully she was his partner in their first class on Fridays double potions. He hurried down to the dungeons turning left towards the classroom instead of right to where the sliver and common room was located behind a false wall. Serve wait up Lily called from stairs. He stopped in his tracks and spun to face her a genuine smile on his face, but quickly faded when he saw who was with her. I guess I'll talk to you later then Evans. I don't want to get grease on my Rosemarie gross little friend's face. James Potter said loudly causing his Raven haired companion serious black to cackle with myth. I'm sorry. Sorry. I'm just picturing young serious cackling and it's

interesting. Yes, thank you for that audible bit. I really, really needed it to like hiking the moment. Yes. We weren't even talking Potter. Lily protested, but the Griffin door deviants were already inside the classroom. I love that this author refers to them as deviants. It's so it's such a wonderfully daring word. It's a really nice juicy label to give them yes author and with you here. Okay. Are you hanging out with him now? Severus asked her at a tone that was ruder than he intended. He followed me out of the Great Hall. He's looking obnoxious puppy. Lily groaned. Severus laughed and let out a sigh of relief. So you're ready for today's lesson? He asked her they were due to brew a more tension today of

course they were of course they were

all the functions they could be brewing. It has to be on more tension, which you know, isn't strictly until any WT level and stapes and fifth year but

I know Mr. Tension, they brew and literal in fanfiction in literally every year. So that's just you know, that's just that's just the way it is. They just always are brewing ever tension because that's a healthy thing for students to know how to make you know what I mean? Yeah, exactly.

It's about as safe for students to make as very to serum, or the draft of living death, but these are on the curriculum as well. I mean, this seems perfectly legit. However, I'm with the author because it's in Canada in the universe that they do learn to brew and more attention to little early but I'm with mostly Yeah, so much potential for greatness. Okay. They were due to brew a more tension today, which was said to be one of the more difficult potions. Severus couldn't wait to try his 100 hit. Potion earring was the one thing he truly excelled in. I hope so. But I have you if I run into issues, Lilly grinned brightly, always sent Sephora softly What do you think? yours will smell like she asked leading them into the dunk classroom. Oh, I don't know. What about you? It was fairly certain his word smell like Millie however, well it's supposed to be something we love right? I can't really think of anything I love though

oh that's okay that's real sad

I know I know that both the residents of coke with they've grown up in a very grim environment they're like that they're just singing how do we use what is love on repeat over and over and over? It is it's yeah it's not it's not a happy time for either of them I'm guessing though that what is going to happen next will without wanting to spoil the story there's there's some other shades of this too to be considering later on.

So would you say like this there's like a good amount of like hurt in this like hurt dark thick? I guess I will it there's so well yeah, I guess it's tagged it's tagged hurt comfort. So yeah

definitely. It's definitely not just plain fluff. Yeah, we you know, as we've explored earlier today, it says that there are more dimensions to this love story. But what arguably that that leads to some really interesting inclusions. Anyway. There we go. Yeah, let let's plow on so Severus replies to Lily not being able to think of anything she really loves. He goes, I absolutely understand. That's, that's what I meant to. Sephora smiled at her, and she smiled back as they slid into their seats. Severus was about to ask her if she'd gotten an invitation to the Christmas party to and then to see if she wanted to go together. When Professor Slughorn called the class to attention and began their lesson. Both Severus and Lily got on well with their potions, observing each other's progress and ignoring James's and serious his disruptive comments. Severus scribbled down notes in his textbook as they went on with their preferable methods to produce the desired result. You always do that Lily laughed watching him make notes. The textbooks are remedial at best. Who knows? Maybe one day I'll write my own set. I can see it now. Superior potions for years one through seven, written by the esteemed Professor Severus Snape, Lily said, painting her hand across the air, as if to envision his name on a banner. Professor, I should hope that that's not my future. Surely I have more to give than that. Lily giggled before abruptly clearing her throat and refocusing on her cauldron, as Professor Slughorn approach them. I see YouTube are coming along nicely. I had no doubts of course, the professor boomed proudly. He leaned in a tad and said much more quietly. That's just one of the reasons I've invited you both the Christmas party. You do plan to attend I hope. Yes, sir. Of course. It's an honor. Lily said. Yes, professor. I was happy to receive my invitation. Severus said, splendid, splendid. I have some exceptional people for you both to me. Okay, so in my head. Slughorn is the Sultan from Aladdin in this fact. Splendid. Absolutely.

Like bouncing and clapping and over excitable oh my gosh, that's

Yeah, yeah. Doubly splendid, splendid, I have some exceptional people for you both to meet. It'll be exciting. Now carry on here. I need to check back in with Mr. Black. You seem to have missed several steps.

Several steps.

He seems to have missed several steps, or shame. He's not more like his younger brother. Professor Slughorn side, we're really drifted towards serious this table. So you're going to the Christmas party. Severus asked once the professor was gone. Yeah, definitely. It's supposed to be really useful for making connections in the wizarding community. I can't really afford not to given that my family won't exactly be much help. Yeah, same here. I mean, you know, my mum's a witch, but she's not exactly connected. Right. Lily nodded knowingly. They discuss their families limitations for their own lives before. It was just one of the multitudes of topics that seamlessly passed through their conversations over the years. I thought we might go to the party together, if you wanted to have her as asked. Oh, Lily frowned. It could be more fun that way. I thought Severus said quickly. I mean, we could just go as friends if that's what the issue is. Lily doctor had pretending to focus on her textbook for longer than the next instruction really required. Severus regretted asking her at all, especially now that he'd thrown out how they could just go as friends, but it was too late to take any Have it back. Finally Lily looked back up. It's just I was already planning to invite someone else, huh? Oh, sorry. No, it's fine. I mean, I'll see you there anyway, right? Yes, exactly. That's right. Lily nodded vigorously. Her features warming again from their previously panic state. Severus is didn't warm though. Instead, he focused back on his own ammo tension brewing. There were still 12 steps to go. And the classrooms distractions were growing, as many students kept doing step 16. Wrong, resulting in explosion. That's it we're more explosions, more Christmasy, themed explosions. Time passed in silence between Severus and Lily until the double lesson was nearly up. We should all be just about finished with our potions just 10 more minutes, Professor Slughorn sad from the front of the classroom, Potter sauntered to the front with a kept bottle of his potion, placing it on the table where everyone had to leave their finished work for grading. It smelled like Hugh Evans, he said with a wink he said with a wink as he walked by them on his way back to the table. Lily turned I'm just that is so dubious its ups in a way that James can only do it smelled like you Evans. It's so it's so cocky and borderline disgusting. And I but now as a reader I'm also fascinated to know what Lily smells like I I think we get there. Yeah, I'm just yeah, that that is just great. AJ was well done. Well done. Author I am with this so much. He said with a wink as he walked by them on his way back to his table. Lily turned red but made no response to him. Severus ceived he must be who she was inviting. James hadn't even been invited to the first slug club event. I bet it smelled like his mummy. Severus hissed under his breath that's a weird thing to say. Really? Reply I guess it was seven or spit out a laugh thinking about how absurd his comment actually was in context

I don't want to think about what James's mom smells like. There's got to be a lot of smells wafting around this room. Actually, what would a more tension smell like to you? To me? Yeah,

um, what would it smells like to me? Definitely baked goods of sorts like like warm freshly baked either like cookies for sure. Ooh, Florida. Do like when it's like morning. dew on the grass so do we grass and cookies so there we go.

Yeah, so it's so it's like Hermione and you know cuz she's she's all about that freshly packed, but I love that it was Florida specific because I thought you were gonna say like Florida oranges or something. But no, no Florida class in the morning. Just you know pre dawn that nice. Ozone? Yes, I am similar, but I love the smell of like Earth but after its rained. So there's a word for that. It's called it's Patrick Hall is the name for that. I love that. I love the smell of hot roasted chestnuts is one definitely is incredible. Roast parsnips there's so much food I could go into but like so I only eat roast roast parsnips at Christmas. So it's a double whammy for me because like I love Christmas so of course I would love Yeah, that there's just there's so much there's too much to get into in this episode, but I just thought it would be like because there's bound to be like so many smells wafting around the room. I'm so curious as to to to know like to be in all of these characters heads. They're smelling what they love

well and it has to be really intense because as it's being brewed by everyone it's not like it only smells like what it is to the person brewing it like everyone's vapor is completely engulfed in that room. You have to be literally like choking on all the like glorious smells that just make you Okay, how are these kids not horny right now? Like

no. Have you ever really been horny for food? Yeah, like if they're smelling food have you been horny for okay? This is a really specific question and I almost don't want to know the open hold me for Florida do cuz it mean I love a roast parsnip but I don't know that I'd want to fuck one. Okay, okay, that bound to be let's just leave it there bound to be smelling other things as well, as well as the food and all of the rich aromas of that, that they're going to be smelling other things. And this is another reason why getting students to prove this potion at this age is bound to be really dangerous. But anyway, the reason the reason I even asked you the question is that we're about to find out what Lily's or more tension smells like. And do you want to guess? Do you want to have a go at what she says her arm or tension will smell like

I can barely think of what mine would be. So I Okay, so is there something food related?

Yes, there's a food related element and a different aroma.

Okay, let's see if I can guess the food. I don't know, food. This is an impossible question.

Yeah, I'm not like I'm not looking for you to be right. I just want to see if you're, if you're vibing with this author right now, like what does Lily like? She's just said she doesn't know what she loves. Right? So this has to be revealing something to her that she didn't previously knew that she loved. So I think that's the biggest thing I can give you.

I have no idea.

I'm gonna just ask you to cast your mind back to the shipping tags for this fic what are we shipping? What multi ship? Are we shipping?

Right? I will. That's what I was thinking. So it's like so we have Remus and we have Severus right. Yeah. So I feel like she would smell like I don't know, for Remus, maybe something earthy outdoorsy because he's, you know, either like, because he spends a lot of time away, like even just like, you know, for the full moons or something like that, or, I don't know something like I don't know, I don't know if it would be like where we'll be related.

Or we will we will get that.

And then like I feel like with Severus, like I don't know what his smell would be besides like various potions, ingredients, but that could be anything

you are so I tell you what next you are psychic. I am like, I'm just going to go on with this fic because you are going to whoop when you hear this. Okay. I'm so glad I asked you this before I read on because this is about to get good. Okay, okay. Okay. Okay. Okay, so she says So Lily says, I think I'm done with mine. What about you? Lily asked. She seems stressed out. I need to wait another two minutes for it to set. What does yours smell like? He asked. I can't really tell. She worried her lip can't tell or don't want to tell. No, no, it's more. It's something odd. She found deeply. There's my mom shepherd's pie, no surprises there. And then some sort of mineral scent. Almost like the lake water.

Ah, okay,

but the third thing, it's pebble I can't place it. Severus sniffed her cauldron on impulse, stupidly forgetting it would smell entirely different to him. Exactly. That was no shepherd's pie or lake water. Instead, it smelled distinctly like lilies, floral scented Muggle shampoo, and like the specific chemical scent potions made when they correctly changed composition. There was something else though. An aromatic herb. It was familiar, a potions ingredient he'd used before it hit him suddenly. wolfsbane Ah, yes, that's it. Lily exclaimed. Severus looked at her sharply. You smell wolfsbane too? Oh, yes. Wait, you do too? Yes, they exchanged a bewildered look. Do you know anywhere will he joke?

No, do you she replied with a laugh. Severus shook his head laughing as well. The sensory notice before suddenly became stronger as he glanced at his cauldron to find that his potion was done. Let's turn these in. Severus stood and scooped his finished potion into a bottle. Lily did the same and they dropped them off at the front table. All right, time is up. Whatever you have completed, please bottle it and bring it up to the front for your grade professors look on called. How'd yours turn out Evans? James asked. Perfectly. Lily replied with a SMIC. Severus and I are both secretly in love with a werewolf as it turns out

that's amazing because they don't know but James knows and that is fantastic. Oh my god, this is amazing. Yes.

Done. Again. They all do. We got it all about this fake so so so James's reaction is next. Wait what James? Is expression alarmed Oh, do you not know what a werewolf is Potter Severus placating? Let's go James Syria said ushering James away. That was way it Lily muttered their weird Self Reset downplay. Yeah Linny Mamet? Clearly somewhere else. Severus didn't press. I'll see you in charms, he said instead. Charms, yeah, see yourself. She half smiled, still barreling down whatever train of thought she'd boarded. Severus hurried out of the classroom since he had no biology next. The greenhouses weren't exactly nearby. He bumped pretty hard into someone waiting to happen to potions and muttered an apology. It's fine. The person mumbled. Severus looked back to see Remus Lupin rubbing his arm where he'd hit him. The Gryffindor looked disheveled and guarded in the way that Severus recognized He glanced around for Jas and serious. They all seem to be friends though. ramus was never mean to him like they were. The deviants weren't around. So Severus took a couple of steps back towards him. Sorry, he repeated. I said it's fine. You're clearly in a hurry. Remus was looking at the floor. But Severus could see his face was badly bruised. I have herbology Severus explained. But are you okay? I'm fine. You should go. You're going to be late. Remus still wouldn't look up. Severus Han back a moment longer. Listen, I know we're not really friendly. But if you need someone to talk to, you know about whatever. He trailed off shocked he just offered an ear to Remus. Remus, Matt, whose eyes finally the purplish black marring his face was more shocking in the full light. Severus made no reaction. His mother's face looked worse than reverses many times. Thanks, Remus whispered Severus nodded. Something held him in place, locked with Remus, his eyes. His throat tightened the way it tended to do around Lily whenever she looked at him, as if he were the only person in her world. Well, I should get to class myself. I'm terribly behind in potions. And I'm not even in the advanced class, like you really must said, attempting a smile and wincing at the pain it caused his wounds. Essence of MATLAB, Sephora said it was what he used on his in his mom's wounds at home. He quickly fled to the greenhouses, only realizing that his response had no context for Remus when he was midway through his her biology lesson. A passage of time. The next couple of weeks passed in a strange blur. Severus was certain Lily was taking James to the Christmas party. Every time he looked over at the Griffin door table. She was sitting with him and his friends, including Remus. Somehow, he kept running into Remus everywhere he went. It was like their schedules suddenly aligned when they never had before. Severus found he didn't mind especially because Remus would always smile at him as they passed. Oh, it wasn't something he knew how to explain, even to himself, but he seemed to have romantic feelings were remissed Yeah, he did.

Oh, thank you for acknowledging it. Wow. Well, it appears that I just might be romantically interested with Remus Lupin.

Snape is arithmetically analyzing all of his feelings. He's like, Wow, maybe this is romantic attraction. I will fail this in the potentially interested column. Okay, so we're going to be reintroduced to an OC again here. Unfortunately, Lucinda talk a lot seemed to have feelings for Severus. She'd started. Yes, she did. Yes, she did. She is complicating these feelings. She started hounding him like James did Lily, and even the slither in commentary became an impossible place to hang out. Finally, in an attempt to get her off his back, he agreed to go with her as friends to the Christmas party. Lucinda did not seem to understand what his friends meant or whether and her attentions multiplied. Luckily, the Christmas party arrived only four days after that. And he found himself escorting Lucinda into the decorated office of professors Slughorn? Oh, it's marvelous. And look at Oh, no, no, this is

this is not like orange

She's not slow cord. I'm just not looking. Oh, it's marvelous. And look at all these important people. What a night we'll have here sevi she gushed Oh, Severus smiled through gritted teeth. He's so he's so good at that smile. He only wanted to keep Lucinda around until Lily and James saw them together. Slughorn arrived seconds later to greet them. Here's look on my stock lot Mr. Snape how good of you to make it? I have people to introduce to both of you. He led them into the party once they were in front of someone who looked far too athletically built to be anything other than a professional Quidditch player. Professor Slughorn made the introductions for Lucinda, as she struggled to maintain composure with the wizard Severus had never heard of Slughorn led him away. I'm surprised you didn't come with Miss Evans. Well, she's bringing a date. Oh, that's her date. Professor Slughorn frowned or do you mean she's here? Shade

Slughorn shade?

Well, you know, house he's bound to have a fan with shade written across it somewhere. Oh, for sure. Yeah, yeah. What do you mean she's here? Severus looked around for her. Yes, she came with that Griffin door boy. Albus made prefect I thought it was a pity invitation. damn slow gone. Wow. Okay. I thought it was a pity invitation. Professors look horn shrub

Oh my goodness.

Ah, but here they are now. Severus you've made it Lily cried and Severus turned to Remus. He gasped upon seeing her suppose a date or while Severus is like keeping the shade as well. See, suppose it date. Hi. Rima sad with a shy smile. I thought Safra stop mid thought glad Lily hadn't brought James. There was no need to break him up. Let's get some fresh air. There's a balcony Lily said leading the two boys towards it. They were the only ones out there when nearly closed the door behind them. The dark sky of a new moon made the December even colder as it rushed around their dress robes. He noticed remixes look nearly as shabby as his own. It's beautiful tonight. You can see all the stars living remarked. She shivered and Severus slid his cloak off and wrapped it around her shoulders. Thanks, but I'm going to get a hot button here. Do either of you want one? Sounds nice. Remus said. I'm okay. Sephora said she handed him back his cloak and slipped inside. Thanks for the tip about the essence of MATLAB. Reamer said once they were alone. Oh, sure. Severus felt his face Eat up. Sorry, I ran off without explanation. It's fine. Remus reached out and took his hand. Severus swallowed hard at his bodily reaction to remissness Touch. They looked at each other in silence, neither daring to risk the moment with words. They're really hot, so be careful. Lily's voice rang out as she returned some minutes later. Severus tried to police and away from reading Mrs. Grasp but Remus laced their fingers together and squeezed him tighter instead.

Oh God. Yes. Oh, yes. Oh my heart.

Oh connait in the new moon light. Oh, it's so romantic.

Oh my gosh. Oh, wow. I'm just I have so Oh, I've never snooping so hard right now. Just so oh my god. Apparently I can ship Snape with any Marauder I didn't know I could do this. Yeah. Oh, this is gorgeous. Okay, okay. Okay.

Yeah. Lily glanced down at their joint hands and smiled. A Pic grew in San versus stomach. Surely this was all a cruel joke. He jerked away towards the door. Sav Wait, Lily called. I'm not playing your game. This isn't a game. She said. Sav please stay. Bremer said, oh god. Severus hesitated, turning to face them. Their eyes were pleading. Gentle. Earnest. It's cold, he said. Within seconds Remus had wrapped an arm around his shoulder and Lily around his waist. They stood huddled together, and savaris relaxed. I'm glad you invited Remus, me to settle early with a warm smile. remissed pulled him closer and Severus swelled with happiness. The night's events were unexpected, but everything felt exactly right.

Oh my god. How are they so good? How were they so freakin good. This was amazing. Yeah. Oh my god this IV oh my god this was so gorgeous and I love I mean I love Snape POV obviously anyway so it was just him navigating just like Lily and then remiss and I'm curious if there was like a discussion that was had or like confessions between Remus and Lily before the party and the reason why this like ended up being okay because it seemed like Lily was like okay I gotta give them their moment and I'm coming back and then it's like okay, we good like we go all right with everyone hug we're fine.

Yeah, I love I love how that was orchestrated. So it started as like you had the moments between Snape and Lily and then they were sort of getting closer and then you had that wonderful moment with Well, I love the buildup I love the buildup of like them accidentally on purpose bumping into each other. And like Severus is aware of his feelings but doesn't know how to handle them which is so on point for him. And then you know, and then you had that last scene where everything could have gone to pieces and instead instead because it's the holidays, and we're feeling warm today i I'm so pleased to be able to read you this ending and now I want to know what happens I love that story. But they need more of them.

Oh my gosh, absolutely. But it was a it is a gorgeous setting like it is like a perfect gorgeous moment of them on the balcony together all hugging and I can only imagine Severus his heart like just exploding and not being able to like yes welled with happiness but still like, I just Oh my gosh, it's just so so amazing. But I will never I cannot get over the moment when Lily's like joking. Like, Oh, apparently seven IR are in love with a werewolf and James like what?

What was that shot? Incredible. Just so James's look of complete shock. Like I can visualize it perfectly. It's so good. And my characterization of Slughorn as the Sultan from Aladdin was so spot on because there's a bowl coming at the end and you have the do you trust the scene?

I know I know. They're out there and like the oh god the hands lacing to get you know when when it's one thing to grab someone's hand but when you lace your fingers Oh my god.

Oh god lacing of the thing because it's almost as good as a deepening kiss. It's almost

Yeah, I'm literally gagged far bowtie doctor. How dare you? How dare you make content this is so good. Oh, God, I loved it. I love it. I love it. I love it. I love it. I love it. I mean, I love this trio just as much as like we did the like James Severus Lilly, you know, thing. This seems like obviously James brings in that, you know, like, you can characterize remixes like okay, he's the nice Marauder, like may not have that animosity between them. So it's like with James, it's like, okay, there's the hate potential love and the healing and whatever. But it's like with Remus, you're just like, oh my gosh, the three of them. It's just, it's just so sweet. And it feels right. And it feels good. And I'm just like, that's just oh my gosh, that's absolutely wonderful.

And they all you know, they all feel like outsiders and they're alienated in their own way. And then they come together, and they are becoming each other's family. Isn't it just wonderful?

It's so good. Oh, well, I think my next one is going to be really sweet and wholesaling. And it's gonna Yeah, it's like this is another longer ish when so this one is called Potter baby by Dark Angel of sorrow returns Potter baby. Yes. So it literally is like, it's inspired by you know, Santa baby. So there are some lyrics in here and I'm going to try and sing them so we'll see. Oh, not?

Yes. Give to me. This is whoever wrote this so that Meg's would sing it. I am so grateful to you right now. i Yeah, of course. Of course. You need to sing it. Like you're I mean, clearly. I mean, you could run rings around Kylie Minogue. I'm ready. I'm ready.

So as soon as Rated T for Teen the pairing is harmony, so it's Harry in her mind. Interesting. I'm pretty sure it's background. I think it's background Ron and pansy so your background Ramsey. So yeah, fluff and humor inspired by Santa baby. Summary a shower of gifts proves to be worth it. In the end is the summary. Oh, shifts between Harry and Hermione his points of view every other scene. Hope you've done okay, so that's good to know. Blimey, Ron exclaimed to Harry with a huff. I'm starting to hate this time of year. Hair. gave him a sideways glance as his fingers graze the display shelf before them. Do I dare ask why? Ron's hands jetted out in front of him as he made an exasperation as if the answer was obvious. These bloody gifts Harry, it's one thing to get the perfect gift for my fiance. But to get the perfect gift that tops the last perfect gift. How am I supposed to know which one is which anymore? Ron raised his arms and then wave them down in a snap. I can't keep up mate. Harry chuckled lately. You're marrying pansy Parkinson Ron, what did you expect?

Of course he is.

The redhead in question ran a hand through his hair and gripped it. I dunno. Not this. I reckon my knee isn't that difficult and get to gift round Christmas. Quite the true statement. Oh, here we go. Potter baby. Just slipped bunnies all under the tree for me. Oh wait up for you dear Potter, baby and hurry through the flu to night.

Oh, yeah. I'm just gonna that's just gonna be a text tone from now on. Anytime you send me a message in telegram about, that's what I'm going to be hearing.

Hermione I'd the box in her lap skeptically. It had a decent weight to it and it clearly contained something that required the need to breathe given the small holes etched on each side. Though the vibrant gold and baby blue wrapping material kept her from making a full assessment or guests to the boxes contents. Her eyes shifted from the present to Harry. He was leaning against the fireplace and is flat supporting that horrid flashy Christmas jumper her mom gave him the year before. Despite the obvious distraction on his person. Harry's gaze was on her clearly watching for the curious which is next move. You do this every year Hermione and I've yet to prank you, Harry remarked to lightly open it. Hermione pointed a finger towards him as she gave him a warning glare. One has to be cautious when the words dirty Santa Monica Powell. She's

very, very good point. I'm with you.

Harry snickered, which only made her mind his eyes narrow. Nonetheless, she removed the top of the box and peered inside. It was barely a second later that the brunette gassed staring up at her was a thick, fluffy half nasal. The fur was Carmel with an orange patch on its chest. Its head was tilted as if we're examining her instead of the other way around. I know you've missed crikey shank since he passed over the summer, Harry said oh, she hadn't noticed. I know. She hadn't noticed that he'd moved from the fireplace until she felt his hand on her shoulder. That's also when she noticed her tears staining her jeans. Oh, things go fall the fawn I've missed. Think of all the blokes that I haven't kissed. His cheeks were flushed beat read his position in front of her mind. He was the last one he thought he'd been given the redness that tinged her mind his cheeks he could tell she was having similar thoughts. It had been an accident really. He was running from the twins latest flying contraption the bloody thing having protection terms all over it when he crashed into Hermione in the borough's sitting room. While it was fortunate that nothing was broken, it was unfortunate that they had landed under something far worse. A fresh, dazzling mistletoe. Harry knew better than to believe it was an ordinary mistletoe. Oh, he'd rather face the flying contraption. Her wide chocolate eyes bought into his and she chewed on her bottom lip. Wait,

wait, wait a minute, but I want to know what like dazzling mistletoe is like, I'm so intrigued like,

is it like sparkling? Like it might be like kind of like glowing or sparkling? Yeah, but I

also want I also want to know why Harry's running from it. Like I why he's more afraid of this than ordinary mistletoe. Like, are you required to do lick kissing?

I I think it's the fact that their feelings are never confessed. And he was like, right, right. You know, like he's just like, oh my god, like mortification like oh my god, I'm under the mistletoe with Hermione Granger sort of thing. He's like, I'd rather just go hide. Yeah,

but it's not just mistletoe it's dazzling mistletoe. I've got it. His feelings are going to become dazzlingly obvious. That's why Yeah, okay, continue.

But but the her white chocolate eyes bore into his and she chewed her bottom lip. He wished she'd hadn't done that the flesh on his face was heading in the southern direction. Okay, whoa. Yes. Oh, you just a pack so we can leave, Harry said, hoping he sounded convincing. It'll only take a second. Hermione nodded, glancing towards the floor. That's the best solution. It's logical. She her bottom lip again. It's just that I haven't. Fourth year, she was baffled, which was not Hermione. From the words he could make out. Harry could put the pieces together make out victorious feeling of figuring out was vastly overshadowed by the awkwardness of their reality. Oh, Hermione hadn't kissed anyone in nearly six years. That was awkward for Harry because of the flurry of thoughts coming to mind has less kids was last week

Oh, Harry, kiss somebody last week. His last kiss was last week if he really wanted to count being harassed and assaulted. By a sec by his secretary Penelope. There was no mistletoe around like the blonde claimed he checked. His experiences aside, he couldn't help but wonder how someone like Hermione, even with her occasional violent tendencies hadn't been kissed in years. Then he wondered what this moment meant for her what it mean for him and what would happen if he felt his heart stop as her soft lips pressed against his own and it lasted far longer than one second. Okay, this is a mouthful, so I'm going to do my best here. Okay,

you can do this

hot are baby. I want flourishing blots and really that's not a lot. Been an angel all year pod or baby so hurry through the flu to night.

Yay.

I did it. I did. I made it through her mind. He was highly disappointed in herself to the highest degree Harry with Ron's assistance managed to get the drop on her in her flat which led her to be blindfolded and take into some unknown location. Okay, she was not a huge fan of surprises and they wonder why she had to whack them every now and now.

I'm absolutely I'm sorry. Absolutely imagining that. Ouch. Ron, you stepped on my foot. Anyway, sorry. I'm crossing

continue problem. When I can see again, I swear you both will feel my wrath. Hermione. Yes. Or at least my or at least my irritation. Ron left right after we blindfolded you, Harry replied. He'll feel it when I find him, then. I may change your mind after this. Oh. Hermione started harshly as she felt his fingers graze her skin to remove the tie around her eyes. It was claimed to be an extra precaution since the press also cast a temporary blinding.

Oh my goodness, they were really rigorous with this. You must not see where we're going to temporarily disable you to. Yeah, and then like, okay, not liking surprises is one thing, but then literally, like blinding someone and bringing them to somewhere they've never been before. Like, what is going on that having said that? I'm invested. So good job. Oh,

well done. Harry Potter, she said for as long as you've known me. You know, I keep my word. He muttered. Something that she gathered was the counter to the spell. And when she could see again, Hermione whipped around to point her finger at him and poke his chest. He was in possession of her wand after all. Now that I can properly see again, you're going to feel Hermione trailed off as she looked around the familiar shop with a frown. Why are we in flourishing blots, Harry? Isn't it close for the holidays? Harry rubbed the back of his neck sheepishly Gao. Well, I will the manager with a request for a good price. The shop is yours to enjoy for the remainder of the day. Any of the books you wish to take back to your flat is already paid for her irritation dissipated under hearing his explanation and her heartbeat quickened. passage of time. Calm and trim my Christmas tree with some decoration bought in Diagon Alley. I really do believe in you. Let's see if you believe in me. Potter baby forgot to mention one little thing of ring another The year came and went, and the holidays were back again. While the two frequented around one another, Hermione couldn't shake the feelings that were growing for Harry, from his thoughtful gifts to the brief kiss under the mistletoe at the burrow. How could she not? She wanted to pretend things didn't happen between them in that way because there were still the other days in the year that she faced him. What Okay, hold on. There's there's a lot of words here. She wanted to pretend things didn't happen between them in that way. Because there were still the other days in the year she faced him and him and the others. Surprisingly, their routine around one another didn't change. She had shamefully expected it to change considering his track record of the other woman he was close to, though, with all the things they'd encountered together. She wasn't she wasn't I'm sorry.

I'm talking it is a maze of words you are doing tremendously. It is fine. You were doing a good job.

So with all the things they'd encountered together, she wasn't like the other women was she, the rattling of glass started startled Hermione and pulled her from her thoughts. She looked over her shoulder to see Harry coming through the living room entryway carrying a box of Christmas baubles threatening to spill over the sides. You can thank Parkinson for all of these I only asked for her opinion. And now I owe Ron two nights at the pubs of his choosing. He said with a small frown. Hermione clicked her tongue, tilting her head in an effort to deter a rush of emotions. You didn't have to do that. Harry, she said I'm more than capable of buying my own baubles. Harry shook his head. If anyone knows it, it's me my any he said with a light shrug. I just wanted to do it. She pursed her lips something sounded suspicious in his words. You'll have to do better than that mister out with it last year you gifted me with so much and now you're back again trying to decorate my tree and my flat is if you don't have your own. She had to know. I appreciate you so much, Harry. But why? He sighed as he set the box down on the table next to me lo luckily the half nasal didn't appear as grumpy as Crookshanks would have. He then knelt on one knee next to her myeni with a sigh. The Weasleys are always going going to be family to us, Harry said and logically it would be easier to stay where I fit in as it were. Harry shook his head and looked into her mind his eyes. Something changed last year for me spending my time with with and on you for the holidays was like I don't know home. Hermione wondered if he could hear her heartbeat pounding her chest like she did. You've always been there Hermione and to feel that familiarity means a lot to me. It took more time than I wanted for me to realize that I shouldn't and don't want to let go of that. I want to feel like this with you throughout the entire year and not just around Christmas. He was red in the face and Hermione couldn't find it in herself to breathe as he pulled a small box out of his pocket. Upon opening it, there was a silver band with an oval shaped sapphire in its center. Do you feel what I feel? Harry whispered Hermione released a short breath. Her answer was immediate. Yes. Would you like to feel this way year round? Yes. Harry held her left hand and she could feel it shaking. Marry me. Her emotions betrayed her want to be strong demeanor as tears cascaded down her cheeks. She should be thinking about all the things rationally and clearly. She should she really should. Yes, Harry. I will. His vibrant green eyes sparkled and he slipped the ring on her finger with a shaky breath. Hermione released a sound mix with a laugh and a sob as Harry pulled her close into a hug. What he probably didn't realize was that her Hermione was overcome with the emotion and decided to take initiative much like she did with the mistletoe. The hug changed into a kiss and she poured what she had tried denying and pushed back through it. Harry swiftly followed suit. Hurry through the flu tonight. Hurry to night. The end?

Oh, my goodness. Oh my goodness. This author has done a splendid job with so many wonderful like, there were so many things I always look for in a harmony. There's always chocolate eyes. There's always eyes sparkling. There's there's so many good things. There's all these myeni that I love all of these things. And this offer managed to like parcel them all up neatly for me and conceal them within the story. So when we hit them, I was like, yes. Yeah, I feel I'm feeling very satisfied right now. And, like, ultimately, like, when that proposal happened, I was just like, oh my god, is she gonna say no? Is she actually gonna? After all this of just so much? Her answer was immediate. No.

No, Harry. Just

what are you doing? I

kissed once under the mistletoe. You bet. We talked like normal friends all year long. Like, where are you coming from?

Exactly. When so Okay, so when he was carrying the box of baubles into the room, I initially thought that he was going to have the ring concealed in the box somewhere, and would levitate it up to the top of the Christmas tree, like where the star or the angel would be or whatever.

Or like if they were like decorating the tree and we're taking bubble after bubble and then got to the bottom and there was like a box in there and

oh, yes, yes, yes. Yes. But this story was everything

so good. And I loved the the hint to which I would assume I have a September birthday, as does Hermione. And Sapphire is our birthstone so I'd imagine that's why she was gifted a sound.

Oh, that's so thoughtful.

Gorgeous. Like, when I read it, I was like, oh, it's like sapphire like because that's yeah, that's my birthstone so, so yeah, that was the Santa baby fic or Potter baby rather. So that was very sweet.

mazing and your singing was everything that I wanted it to be cute for that that was

here. Well, I'm glad I made it through okay.

Remember when Nathan wanted to know how Draco sweater got to be pink? Well, we know the answer because Dan puff wrote us a fic enjoy

frankness Eve by damp off. It's not the dead of night in which Fred and George choose to sneak. It isn't proper sneaking at all. Really. It is instead the full light of day in which they bound down the stairs. Up to nothing but trouble. Mum bottles about the kitchen, making fruit cakes in Gingerbread hard candies and fudge. Hurry her assistant spends more time ducking out of her way than helping Snape to is allowed in the kitchen to whip up batches of eggnog and mulled wine. Neville is sent away with his shoulders slumped. But it really is for the best that will not be allowed near the kitchen. It is for the best that Fred stay away to. But still he squeezes his way inside. It's not that he doesn't want to steal a bite of cake or cookie. And he definitely doesn't want to see hurry gropes napes bomb when he thinks no one's looking. Merlyn is going to have to hex out his eyes. But it is distraction, not sugar. That is Fred's priority. George mum shouts and Fred briefly worries that she spotted George sneaking off with a bundle of cloth. Except she hasn't. Mum and Fred. Fred correct her Cheerilee unless I am George. Do you think maybe I forgot which one I am. Best consult George or Fred. Oh Georgie. Fred reaches for a bit of fudge but finds himself facing snakes wand instead. Fred manages to get a hand on a candy cane and lifts it with a grin and a wave before jogging off. A passage of time. Upstairs George grins as he examines the jump head mom knitted for Draco gray with a maroon stripe. The opposite of Robins maroon with a gray stripe. The posh prep won't care much about the jump at the twins ashore, so why not welcome him to the family this way? Besides, it will hurt mom's feelings less when Draco doesn't like it. What do we think orange? George asked when Fred enters their bedroom. A candy cane hangs out of his brother's mouth. Oh, where's mine? You look down the business end of snipes want to get your own. Fred replies. I'm thinking gold fairy Griffin door. No, we're only changing the stripe the rest of too much work. George Fred exclaims scandalized. Now crank is too much work. We only have so much time. A wave of George's wand flings the jumper midair and he walks around to examine it. Fred shrugs his shoulders and talks around his candy cane. Fine, but gold is still too Gryffindor over him. Gold is too fancy here like it. Gold doesn't see his complexion. I still say orange. George flicks his wand and the maroon strike 10s A deep burnt orange George frowns. No, not quite. Orange, the shade brightens. Come on, George. Are you Fred? By the way? Gold Fred says. The stripe gleams of vivid gold that possibly looks worse against the gray than the orange did. George considers this as he strokes his chin, but inevitably shakes his head. Now, Fred, we're welcoming to the Weasleys after all, the stripe turns orange again. And what a warm welcome it is for degrees. And seeing as how he's Ronnie kins his little treasure. The stripe turns gold, then gold it shall be. George taps his wand against his nose, silver sparks dribble out of the end. Are you thinking what I'm thinking granted? Silver and gold? I don't know forge he might actually like it. Too garish for him. George says very unfashionable, you know, and he'll think we're making fun of him. Which we are, says Fred. We are agrees George. What good is having new family members if one can't tease them. Even Snape had a taste of it last year with a head full of silver tinsel, but Snape had had the last laugh in the end. Green fractals just went as fast as after Christmas. And it took the twins a solid month to set them right. Very impressive magic that he'll make a great business partner once they talk her into it. Fred and George set their sights on the jumper with very different ideas of what to do. Silver and Gold mingle grotesquely along the stripe. The twins frown. They don't want it to look that awful. Or maybe magenta. Fred offers half heartedly. blotches of magenta appear a top the muddied collar. George flicks is one that Fred Hey, we had an agreement. Apparently not Fred says and flicks magenta sparks his brother. The John pert ripples midair as the twins shoot collard sparks across the room. Blue bad clothes turn magenta, blue curtains now orange, the wood dresser now lime green. The jumpers stripe is hit several more times. Teal than violet than yellow. Scarlet sparks narrowly missed the gray of the jumper. The hit Fred's ginger hair instead. Oh, now you've done it. Fred whips his candy cane out of his mouth to point it to this twin rather than his wand as he intends. George cackles as Fred fumbles for his wand and shoots off a second spell as he begins to laugh to the pink sparks hit not George's head. But the jumper. The stripe turns not the hot Pinky intended, but a pretty blush pink that suits the gray quite nicely. Fred and George stopped laughing long enough to appreciate how pretty the jumper is now. Then they fall into peals of laughter once more. Home Merlin gasps George wiping the tears for his eyes. I guess gold won't be so bad. No, you were right. Orange will be best. Fred says. Besides, it'll make Ron think of the cannons in love it and Draco will hate it. GEORGE agrees brightly. Genius dear brother. Well, it was your idea is one Fred and George raise their ones and as one they shoot orange sparks the jumper. The stripe glows a bright orange pink. Then the colors shift alarmingly orange and pink separating before orange is flung back into their faces. The stripe remains pink, Fred and George frown. Brown maybe Fred suggests. By the end of the hour. Fred and George's freckles have never been so vivid or so colorful. orange and brown and gold and canary yellow. The tips of George's ginger hair are blue. Fred's fingernails are green. Still, the stripes stays pink. They cannot tell why the stripe has become resistant to change. Their best guess is that they overloaded the material with too much magic and it expelling further spellwork they don't have time to test it further. The twins sneak back downstairs, where George returns the jumper to mom's pile and Fred gets an unfortunate eyeful of his sister snogging and groping Hermione beneath the mistletoe. Mom is still too busy in the kitchen to pay him much mind. Though at least Harry has found a safe corner in which to fix his trifle. Only Snape spares frantic lamps. I've been practicing new hair spells See, Fred says brightly stapes one DOM twitches on Fred fleas.

A passage of time. Christmas day doesn't start off very well. Mum cries which the twins really should have seen coming. It was only meant to be a laugh. but then it turns out that Draco loves his jumper. This marks a failure in the prank category, but Mum cheers up the twins breathe a sigh of relief. He really is pretty isn't Fred grumbles Draco and runs snuggle on the sofa run grins so broadly, that his face looks as though it might split in half. And Draco's cheeks are a lovely pink as he whispers in Runza. Yeah, he'd be less pretty in orange. George sighs mournfully. There's always next year. Fred says, There most certainly will not. Sort of sharp voice behind them. Fred and George Yelp and spring to their feet. Mum stands their fists planted on her hips. How else is he supposed to know who's part of the family? George asks, defensively. Mom's eyes narrow. You can start. She glances around the room, then leans closer. By splitting your brothers to match. Fred and George blink, then turn to look at Ron once more. Ronnie in pink, Fred and George beam. Yes, ma'am. Thank you, everybody who was sent us fic to read to you for this holiday extravaganza. This is so so good to provide. So

oh, it's I just it's just amazing. This is what I love so much about fandom and fanfiction. And just like the love and care and everything that people think of and, and create. And it's just like, you can feel the emotion and the purpose and the fact that everyone knows and loves these characters and have so much fun with this world. Oh, I just love being a part of this. This was so great. Yeah, just just as you said, like, thank you to everyone who let us read today because this has been an absolute joy.

I am so so just so happy that we're able to do something different for you. Around this time of year. We knew we wanted to do something and just the fact that you know we were able to get like listener written content that you wanted to share with us to have us read to you is incredible. And I'm so I'm thankful beyond my capacity for words to say exactly how I feel. This is this has just been exceptional.

Mm hmm. Well, I am exhausted. I mean, wow. It's been a long, whoo. Oh, my goodness. Well, so now finishing this up. Once again, we can finally say yes, travel is next. We are so excited to get into Draco Malfoy boys. I mean, it's just, it's gonna be so much fun. Neville and just how their dynamic is together and how it compares to like, say either of them in like alternative pairings and things like that. That's gonna be so much fun. I can't, I cannot wait.

I am so excited. As I've stated previously, when I've thought that we were doing travel, I I am still excited. I can't wait to give that to you next time. I'm not going to say next week, because we don't do this in weekly intervals. back whenever this is airing, and you will see the episode that we made for you.

Yes. And yeah. And like I said, let us know if you like to this, like if this is something that you would like to do again, because like, I mean, it would be super fun to do like a Valentine's episode like this would be super cute or like, you know, different stuff like that. I think that would be super fun. But

yeah, I definitely think I mean, I really enjoyed this. I hope it was fun. I hope it was as fun to listen to, as it was to make for you. Because really, I mean, my My smile is not being wiped off my face. I mean, yes, it was a lot of reading. But it's worth it. You guys are worth it. I just I love this so much.

And we actually have a shout out this week. For one of our patrons. We have an OTP patron Katie Hall, who has been supporting us for four months, which we're really excited to have your support. And we love you for that. And thank you so much. I mean, it's we cannot thank anyone involved in helping us keep creating and do what we love and celebrate things is just we were we cannot say thank you enough.

Yeah, honestly, it means the world to us that you are a patron and have been a patron for so long and that you love what we do that you know, we just want to make people's days that little bit better. We want to be the reason that you laugh in a day, you know, and the fact that we're able to do this for people are that you're showing your support. Katy tours is incredible. Of course we love you, you know, however you support the part whether it's you know, being being a patron with us or by leaving reviews or by recommending the pod to your friends or by getting in touch with us in all the weird and wonderful ways you know how to do by now?

Yes, yes yes yes like yeah so thank you so much for joining us happiest of holidays and I don't know that we're I don't think we release until after the new year so happy new year and all those things hopefully 2022 comes and is absolutely wonderful to us.

Have a wonderful festive season whatever you get up to however you want to celebrate, be kind to each other, love one another, and we will see you in the new year

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