Harry POV

“Don’t be squeamish, squeeze it out, they’re best when they’re fresh” called professor Sprout. Harry looked down at his gnarled Snargaluff stump, it resembled an innocent dead tree stump but judging by the scratches on Neville’s face, whose hand just emerged clutching a green pulsating pod about the size of a grapefruit, innocent was not a likely word to describe this ‘plant’. Harry was pulling on a pair of protective gloves when Hermione interrupted his thoughts “you’re not getting out of this one Harry” Harry looked up confused “out of what?” he asked, “out of Slughorns Christmas party, Harry he’s asked me to check when you’re free just to make sure you’ll be there!”

“is this for the precious slug club members then?” stabbed Ron, who was furiously wrestling with his stump. “well actually yes,” said Hermione “but we are allowed to bring guests” she shot at him then turning to Harry “who are you taking then Harry?”

“Wha-?” he hadn’t given much thought to this before now, it was like the triwizard all over again except he actually knew who he wanted to take but it would be completely inappropriate for him to do so  “guests harry, we can take guests! Honestly, do you listen? Anyway, I overheard Romilda Vane talking in the girls bathroom and she wants you to take her to the party, she even got a love potion! Just invite someone already will you?” Harry looked at her in stunned science “what? A love potion? Look, there’s no one I want to invite” he lied.

Harry’s mind turned to Ginny, he imagined what he’d say if he asked her but then unbidden into his mind came thoughts of Luna. He hadn’t seen much of her recently, in a way he missed her. And then it occurred to him that he should invite her. He suddenly felt elated,  Harry vowed to go find her at lunch.

After Herbology Harry had Charms with Ron and Hermione furiously ignoring each other. Harry hoped that it wouldn't be like his third year when they successfully ignored each other for weeks on end. was lunch time, Harry, Hermione and Ron were sitting in the great hall eating. Harry glanced over at the Ravenclaw table but couldn't see Luna anywhere, he turned to Hermione, "any idea where Luna is?" he questioned. Hermione's eyes trailed to the Ravenclaw table too; "I know that 5th years had potions, she could still be down there? I didn't see her leave" Harry's stomach twisted and his heart rate increased as Ginny plonked her self down next to him. "Er oh thanks Ginny" he sputtered. "So why do you want her anyway?" asked Ron "oh I just wanted to ask her something". Harry's mind drifted I can always find her later, Ginny is here! I'll go later.

The group began discussing Slughorn as Harry unknowingly gazed at Ginny for the rest of lunch.