Chapter Text
As the familiar chug of the Hogwarts Express drew nearer, Scorpius stood on the bustling platform among his fellow witches and wizards. straining to see the approaching scarlet train. Zephrya ruffled her feathers as two Ravenclaws moved closer to them, accidentally brushing against the cage. She clicked her beak haughtily, and Scorpius had a feeling she was cursing them out with some creative language. Beside him, his father chuckled slightly, as if he too were thinking the same thing.
“Son, did you bring everything with you?”
Scorpius rolled his eyes. “Father, for the hundredth time today, I can assure you I brought everything.”
“Well, you have certainly brought your sass with you. I have always wondered who you got it from.”
“Like father, like son? Huh?” Scorpius quipped.
His father ruffled his hair, “Like father, like son.”
The train slowed to a majestic halt, its wheels clicking on the tracks. One final whistle pierced the air, signaling the commencement of boarding for Scorpius' classmates. Enchanted windows reflected the sunlight, creating a kaleidoscope of colors that danced across the platform. Scorpius’ heart raced with wonder, eager to see what his spring term would hold for him. Amidst the crowd, Rose Weasley boarded the train, her fiery red hair blazing. Her gaze met Scorpius', and she rolled her eyes, failing to conceal the smile that played on her lips. His plans to woo her were very much still in motion.
His father cleared his throat, redirecting Scorpius from his momentary distraction of ogling his future wife. Flushed with embarrassment, Scorpius attempted to conceal his burning cheeks, and the knowing smile that played on his father's lips prompted an exaggerated groan of despair.
“It is time to see you off, now, son.” His father assumed an air of regal composure. “Thank you for coming home for the holidays.” Scorpius' throat tightened at the sudden bombardment of emotion. He hesitated, reluctant to leave his father. Will you be okay without me?
“I will be fine, son. As long as you promise to take care of yourself and your friends, I will be okay.”
“I promise, father.” Before he could stop himself, Scorpius placed Zephyra’s cage on the ground, and embraced his father. His father slightly stiffened at the contact, but a moment later he relaxed and hugged him back. If only Mother could see this.
As they separated, Scorpius pretended not to notice his father discreetly wiping a tear. Gathering his belongings, he ascended the train’s steps. Once he was on the train, he turned around and saw his father give him a smile, shouting something over the train’s noise. Though inaudible, Scorpius felt the sentiment.
“I love you too!”
…
Settled comfortably in his compartment, Scorpius gazed out the window and watched in awe of the magical countryside. The train steadily moved along the tracks, revealing the rolling hills that stretched as far as the eye could see. As the sun began its descent toward the horizon, a warm and golden glow bathed the valley. The sky transformed into a masterpiece of hues, blending a familiar tapestry of orange, pink, and yellow. Wisps of clouds dotted the sky, painting the heavens above.
Scorpius felt a sense of tranquility as he watched the world come alive with the soft, ethereal beauty of the sunlight’s beams. Before his friends joined him in his compartment, he pulled out a blank parchment and a pen from his bookbag and gently placed them on the table in front of him. Twisting the pen’s cap, Scorpius glanced at the sunset once more before beginning to write.
5th January, 2020
Dearest Mother,
You looked especially beautiful in the sunset today, and I know Father would agree as well. Things are looking better for us now, and I think that we will make it out okay. For one, I am looking forward to this spring term. Beyond the classes and Albus’ gimmicks, this new year feels different already. Even more so, I have some exciting updates that occurred around 3:35 PM today. As you know, Mother, I am attempting to woo the stunning Rose Weasley. At first, I believed my attempts were in vain, but today I can say without any insurmountable doubt, I put that smile on her face.
For the first time in months, I feel safe again. Happy, even. There is a change in the world around me from everything that has happened during the holidays. Though it was hard having those conversations with Father, I know that we are better for it. Also, knowing you are watching over me makes me feel less alone. You continue to be the person I look up, whose guidance will never fail me. I am honored to be your son and for being lucky enough to know your love. I will make you proud, Mother. I give you my word.
I must take my leave now. I can hear Albus’ boisterous laughter and James’ cursing reach closer. Give me strength to deal with these two, I am only half-kidding, of course. I love you, Mother. I will see you in the next sunset and every sunset after.
Forever your son,
Scorpius Malfoy