Archive of Our Own

Playlist - Beyond

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✴ "𝚃𝚑𝚎𝚛𝚎 𝚒𝚜 𝚊 𝚌𝚛𝚊𝚌𝚔 𝚒𝚗 𝚎𝚟𝚎𝚛𝚢𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚗𝚐. 𝚃𝚑𝚊𝚝'𝚜 𝚑𝚘𝚠 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚕𝚒𝚐𝚑𝚝 𝚐𝚎𝚝𝚜 𝚒𝚗." ✴ - 𝙻𝚎𝚘𝚗𝚊𝚛𝚍 𝙲𝚘𝚑𝚎𝚗

••~✴ · ✵ · ✴~••

                When Andrew Minyard received his letter, his foster mother, Bee, was overjoyed for him. Andrew couldn’t say the same for his idiot twin brother, Aaron, who had become even grumpier and more annoying than usual. Don’t get him wrong, he and Aaron were quite close as brothers, but for them, ‘closeness’ and ‘intentional provocation’ were synonyms.

Despite the constant teasing, there was a silent understanding between them, a loyalty that didn’t need to be expressed in words. The letter from Hogwarts was the beginning of something new and unknown, but also a threat to the fragile balance the twins maintained. Andrew knew that magic would change everything, but he wasn’t sure if he was ready for it, or if Aaron was.

Bee, always the optimist, spent the following week buying supplies and preparing Andrew for the journey. She talked about the great adventures and friendships he would make, trying to ease the tension between the brothers. "It’s going to be a wonderful experience, Andrew. Hogwarts is a magical place, literally. And, besides, Nicky studies there, doesn’t he?”

Andrew only nodded, trying to ignore Aaron’s resentful glare. He knew that Bee’s presence was the only thing preventing a more heated argument. Aaron, on the other hand, remained silent, expressing his discontent with hard looks and occasional grumbles.

Andrew had no idea whether what Aaron felt was jealousy or just a constant fear of being left alone. Andrew hoped it was the latter because he knew Aaron didn’t handle loneliness well.

On the morning of his departure, Bee took them to King's Cross station. Andrew’s nervousness increased as they approached the barrier between platforms 9 and 10. "You’ll do fine, Andrew." Bee said with an encouraging smile. "Just run straight at the barrier."

With one last look at Aaron, who refused to say goodbye, Andrew ran. He felt a strange sensation of compression and suddenly found himself on platform 9¾, which was ridiculous since that number didn’t even exist – Andrew imagined that people in exact sciences must have nightmares about this number every night.

The Hogwarts Express was there, imposing and gleaming.

As soon as Andrew boarded the train, he searched for an empty compartment and, when he found one, sighed with relief. However, his peace didn’t last long.

“Excuse me, may I come in?” A female voice asked. “The rest of the train is full.”

Andrew glanced up at the girl, who was already dressed in black robes with a green and silver tie. Her bleached blonde hair was coloured in pastel rainbow shades at the ends. She would have looked like a bloody unicorn if it weren’t for her sharp, analytical gaze.

The blond merely nodded and looked out of the window again.

The girl entered and settled in front of Andrew, pulling an extremely thick book out of her bag. The title ‘Goshawk’s Guide to Herbology’ gleamed on the cover. She began to read and, at some point, took out a green apple and started eating it, but Andrew felt like he was being watched.

“Are you a first-year?” She asked, without looking up from her book.

Andrew mumbled in response, trying not to sound as annoyed as he felt.

She closed the book and looked directly at him. “I’m Renée. Renée Walker. And you?”

“Andrew Minyard.”

Renée smiled enigmatically. "You’ll like Hogwarts. It’s a place full of surprises and…secrets." Her eyes sparkled with a peculiar enthusiasm.

Andrew wasn't sure if he liked her. Renée was strange and spoke in riddles, but there was something comforting about her presence. He wasn’t alone, and that was something.

The train started to move, and Andrew felt the anxiety rise again. He looked out the window, watching the landscape change rapidly.

As time passed, more students passed through the corridor, some stopping to greet Renée. Andrew remained silent, watching everything carefully. The diversity of the students was impressive.

Finally, a soft knock on the door interrupted his thoughts. "Sorry to bother, but the snack trolley is coming. Would you like anything?" An elderly witch asked with a kind smile.

Andrew was about to decline when Renée stood up and bought several sweets, including chocolate frogs and Bertie Bott's Every Flavour Beans. She offered some to Andrew. "Want to try?”

He took a chocolate frog, more to get rid of her insistence than out of desire. As he bit into it, he tasted the familiar flavour of chocolate, but the sensation of something moving inside his mouth almost made him spit it out. "What the hell is this?" He asked, trying not to sound alarmed.

Renée chuckled softly. "Chocolate frogs. They have a little enchanted life, but they’re harmless.”

When they arrived, Andrew received his robes and they parted ways, as Renée was in her second year at the school.

Andrew and the rest of the students were led through the castle, to the Great Hall, where they would be sorted into their houses. The Great Hall was even more grandiose than Andrew could have imagined. The enchanted ceiling reflected the night sky, and floating candles illuminated the space with a soft, welcoming light. The students already seated at the house tables watched the newcomers with curiosity and excitement.

Andrew, along with the other new students, was guided to the front of the hall, where an old, patched hat was placed on a stool. He knew that this was the Sorting Hat, responsible for determining which of the four houses – Gryffindor, Slytherin, Hufflepuff, or Ravenclaw – each student would spend the next years in.

When Andrew's name was called, he felt a knot in his stomach and walked to the stool. As he sat down and placed the Sorting Hat on his head, a voice whispered in his mind: "Hmm, interesting... Much determination and a sharp mind. I see courage, but also great loyalty. And a touch of rebellion. Where to put you, then?”

Andrew tried not to think of anything, but couldn’t help but remember Aaron and how he would be reacting to all of this.

"Ah, despite your tough exterior, you are extremely loyal and protective of those you consider family…, family is important to you. I see intelligence, honesty, and loyalty… I think the best place for you is...HUFFLEPUFF!”

Andrew heard applause coming from the Hufflepuff table and felt a mixture of surprise and relief as he made his way to his new house table. As he sat down, he heard some cheers, and a voice calling his name. Soon, a hand landed on his shoulder.

“Andrew!”

Andrew rolled his eyes at the sound of his cousin's voice. “Nicky,” Andrew replied, not even forcing a single smile as his cousin sat down beside him. Nicky was radiant, his eyes shining with excitement.

“I can’t believe you’re finally here! And here, in my house!” Nicky exclaimed, looking around the Hufflepuff table with admiration. “This was a surprise to me!”

Andrew shrugged, trying to seem indifferent. Out of the corner of his eye, and over the whispers of the other students, he saw some movement and heard a name being called: “Neil Josten!”

The boy in question was red-haired, and as he sat on the stool, Andrew noticed his blue eyes. Ice-blue eyes. Refreshing, like mint. Like peppermint candies. It only took a few seconds before the hat shouted for the whole hall to hear: “SLYTHERIN!”

✴ · ✵ · ✴

One year later

              In his second year at Hogwarts, Andrew Minyard was more familiar with the school's routine and the magical world. He had learned a lot in his first year, meeting new people and adapting to the Hufflepuff environment.

However, his relationship with Aaron remained somewhat complicated. Although they still shared a strong bond as twin brothers, their opposite personalities often resulted in conflicts and misunderstandings. Andrew hoped that with time, they would find a way to understand each other better. However, despite everything, both brothers still exchanged letters every week.

Renée Walker, the strange girl he met on the train in his first year, had become a close friend. Her enigmatic nature and her interest in Hogwarts' secrets intrigued Andrew, and the two shared many moments of conversation and exploration together in the castle corridors.

He discovered a particular talent for Potions and Herbology, and enjoyed being ahead of some students in his year.

Furthermore, Andrew was practically forced to try out for Quidditch – damn Jeremy Knox. He joined the Hufflepuff team as a keeper in his second year and quickly stood out for his sharp instinct and flying skills.

However, not everything was rosy. Andrew faced challenges, such as the damn blue-eyed red-haired friend of Allison Reynolds, who happened to be a friend – and crush – of Renée's.

The blue-eyed red-haired friend of Allison Reynolds was Neil Josten, a mysterious boy who had piqued Andrew's curiosity since their first meeting. Neil was reserved and seemed to carry an invisible weight on his shoulders, which intrigued Andrew even more.

They had been introduced while Andrew and Renée were studying in the library. That day, Reynolds and Josten literally appeared out of nowhere and started studying with them.

After that, the redhead ended up becoming a regular presence in Andrew's life. Or almost.

In one of their Potions classes with Ravenclaw, Neil infiltrated the room and literally sat next to Andrew.

While the professor explained the next potion to be brewed, Andrew noticed that Neil was paying attention with an unusual intensity. His blue eyes watched every move of the professor, and his skilled hands manipulated the ingredients with precision.

Andrew shot Neil a deadly look, who was calmly focusing on his own potion as if his presence there were the most natural thing in the world. "What the hell are you doing here?" The blonde whispered.

Neil lifted his blue eyes to meet Andrew's gaze, his expression calm and serene. "I'm here to learn, just like you, Minyard.”

Andrew frowned, not fully understanding Neil's response. "But you're in Slytherin. What brought you to a Potions class with Hufflepuff and Ravenclaw?”

Neil smiled slightly, a gentle gesture that seemed to brighten his face. "I like studying with you.”

After that, Neil's presence in Andrew's life became increasingly frequent, and the two often found themselves studying together or competing in magic classes. Despite the differences in their houses, an unusual friendship was blossoming between them, based on mutual respect and a shared desire to learn and grow as wizards.

Neil had become the Slytherin seeker, and Andrew occasionally saw him in action during Quidditch matches – he saw himself too, as much as he deeply hated the sport.

Three years later

              Three years had passed, and Andrew was now in his sixth year at Hogwarts. Danielle Wilds and Matthew Boyd, two Gryffindors, had also managed to sneak into Andrew's life, along with Kevin Day, the annoying and irritating but somehow kept close by blonde, the most skilled striker in Slytherin and son of the Quidditch referee David Wymack. Nicky had already graduated, and was probably in Germany now, messing around with Herbology, or who knows what. He had mentioned that he might try for a Herbology teaching position at Durmstrang.

Andrew was in the Great Hall, along with Renée, Neil, and Allison at the Slytherin table, when the owls arrived with mail.

'Dear Andrew,

 

My second year in high school has been anything but conventional. That annoying guy, Seth Gordon, keeps bothering me, of course, but this year's teachers are much better, and I've also got a girlfriend! Oh, Andrew...she's so smart, beautiful, and talented...I really like her a lot, and well, Bee likes her too. Nicky is coming to visit us, and in one of our calls, he said that you haven't even been responding to his letters. He's upset, so answer those damn letters!

And seriously, change your owl. This one bites me every time since your first year!’

Andrew had to pause reading to chuckle, which seemed to catch Neil's attention. He glanced briefly at the blonde, then returned to his own copy of the Daily Prophet. The owl may or may not have been chosen deliberately.

‘Bee said you'll be coming back for Christmas this year, and I hope you get to meet Katelyn, my girlfriend. I think you'd like her, and vice versa – that is if you're not a complete idiot with her, of course.

Well, that's it for today.

With love,

Aaron.

P. S.: Write me back, you idiot.'

Andrew rolled his eyes and clumsily stuffed the letter back into his bag. When he looked up, Allison was leaning over Neil's shoulder reading the Daily Prophet.

"What happened, sweetie?" She asked, narrowing her eyes. "Oh...! Merlin!" She abruptly widened her eyes.

Neil's eyes were dark as he looked intently at the newspaper.

"What happened?" Renée asked, leaning slightly over the table.

The redhead just tossed the copy onto the table, allowing Andrew and Renée to read.

Here's a curiosity about Neil: his real name wasn't Neil Josten.

Andrew took a long time to finally discover this fact. It turns out that, on some nights, the two of them meet in the astronomy tower. And on those nights, they share truths. Truths that no one would ever know, except for the two of them.

And, well, one of the truths that Andrew had discovered was that Neil's father, Nathan Wesninski, more like a cruel murderer, was imprisoned in Azkaban.

And now, facing the news, Andrew wasn't exactly sure what to feel.

'The Butcher was found dead in his Azkaban cell!

Nathan Wesninski, better known as The Butcher, was found dead this Tuesday morning. He was in his cell in Azkaban when one of the guards…'

Andrew looked up, facing Neil, who still stared at the copy with wide eyes.

It seemed like the redhead didn't quite know how to react, his hands trembling slightly as he tried to process the information. Andrew watched closely, noting the mix of emotions passing through Neil's eyes: relief, confusion, and a shadow of sadness.

"Neil." Allison called gently, breaking the tense silence that had settled between the quartet and placing a hand on his shoulder.

Neil looked up, his eyes still shining with the intensity of the emotions he felt. "Yeah?" He replied, his voice almost inaudible.

Reynolds wasn't known for her sensitivity, but she knew that at that moment, Neil needed support. "Are you okay?" She asked.

Neil took a deep breath, closing his eyes for a moment before opening them again. "I'm...I'm fine…" he pondered, and as soon as he saw his friends' expressions, he huffed. "I don't know." He admitted, his voice breaking slightly. "It's strange. Merlin! I should be happy, right? He's dead, he can't hurt me anymore, but…”

Renée, who was standing next to Andrew, gently placed her hand on Neil's arm. "It's normal to feel confused, Neil. He was your father, after all. Blood ties aren't easy to break, even when the person is a monster."

Allison wrapped Neil in a hug. "You're not alone, sweetie."

Neil returned the hug. "Thank you." He tried to smile, but the gesture was more of an attempt than a genuine expression of joy.

Andrew knew that the news would change many things for Neil. Perhaps it would be a relief, a liberation from the shadows of the past that haunted him, but it also meant confronting buried feelings and dealing with a new reality.

Later that same day, Andrew sneaked up to the astronomy tower, and it was no surprise when he found Neil sitting there, gazing at the stars.

The blond just sat down beside him, and they remained silent for a long time. Until Neil finally spoke up:

"Merlin! I always imagined what it would be like when he finally died. I thought it would be a weight lifted off my shoulders, that I would feel free. But...now that it's happened...I just feel empty."

Andrew nodded, understanding perfectly. "It's natural. You've been through a lot because of him. It takes time to process all of this."

Neil turned to face Andrew, his eyes still carrying a mix of pain and uncertainty. "Do you think it will ever stop hurting?"

Andrew looked directly into Neil's eyes, his expression serious. "Yes. But it won't happen overnight." He looked away, feeling awkward about what he was about to say: "And you don't have to go through this alone. We're all here to help, even when you think you don't need it."

Neil gave a small, genuine smile this time. "Thank you, Andrew. I don't know what I would do without you.”

Andrew rolled his eyes, but there was a touch of affection in his gesture. "Don't get used to it, Josten. I'm just being decent for today."

Neil chuckled softly and pointed to Andrew's lap. "May I?"

The blond just nodded, hoping Neil wouldn't notice the slight blush that probably covered his cheeks.

The redhead leaned in and rested his head on Andrew's thighs. Andrew felt Neil's breathing gradually calm down as the redhead settled into his lap. He knew that words were only part of the healing process; sometimes, the silent presence of a friend was what truly made the difference.

The stars shone brightly in the sky above the astronomy tower, and Andrew let his gaze wander among them, seeking peace in the constellations. He wasn't good at expressing his feelings, but he knew Neil understood his silent support. They had been through a lot together, and that had created a strong and unbreakable bond.

Finally, Neil broke the silence, his voice soft and full of gratitude. "I never thought I would find someone like you here, Andrew. Someone who really gets it." He sighed. "Not that Allison doesn't support me, because she's my best friend, it's just that...sometimes she's just...like...Allison."

Andrew simply stroked Neil's hair, a small gesture but laden with meaning. "I know, Neil. I know."

The night was progressing, and the cold was beginning to intensify. Andrew knew they would eventually have to return to their dormitories, but for now, he was content to stay there, offering Neil the comfort he so desperately needed.

"Whatever comes our way, I won't leave you alone." Andrew finally said, his voice firm and determined.

Neil smiled, a genuine smile that lit up his tired face. "Thank you, Drew. That means more than you know.”

✴ · ✵ · ✴

The next day, once again at the Slytherin table, Neil received a letter.

“Alli,” the redhead called to the blonde who was eating a muffin beside him. “Uncle Stuart is demanding your presence at the Yule.”

Allison laughed. “Really?”

“Yes,” Neil chuckled. “He probably already considers you a Hatford.”

Andrew knew very well why. 

The Reynolds family were supporters of Lord Moriyama, better known as the Dark Lord, or ‘He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named’. Earlier this year, Allison had sought refuge at the Hatford mansion. From what Andrew knew, her family was forcing her to take the mark and declare herself a follower of Moriyama.

Uncle Stuart welcomed her with open arms. Neil had mentioned that part of the family didn’t like the idea much, but neither he nor Allison cared, and they took her in.

"He can demand all he wants, but I'm not going to submit to that," Allison had said when she first shared her situation on the train ride to Hogwarts at the beginning of the school year.

Andrew knew that the end of the school year at Hogwarts brought with it not only the anticipation of festivities but also the uncertainties and challenges each of them faced with their own families. For Neil, Allison, and even himself, going home meant confronting different realities that, in one way or another, shaped who they were.

As the conversation at the Slytherin table continued, Andrew observed Neil closely. The redhead was calmer, but Andrew could tell that the weight of the news about his father's death still lingered over him.

“And you, Andrew?” Renée asked at one point. “What are your plans for Christmas?”

Andrew shrugged, trying to hide the apprehension he felt. “I’m going home. Bee wants me to spend time with Aaron and meet his girlfriend.”

Allison smiled, letting her muffin drop back onto her plate. “That should be interesting. Meeting your brother's girlfriend... Do you think she'll be able to handle the pest that you are, Minyard?”

Another fact about Allison – wow! Andrew felt like an expert: She loved provoking him. Like, really loved it, to the point of taking pleasure in it. But it was mutual because Andrew loved being a thorn in someone's side.

Neil laughed, a sound that felt more genuine than before. "She'll need a lot of courage."

Being a thorn in Josten's side, especially.

Andrew rolled his eyes, but there was a touch of humour in his expression. "She'll need more than just ‘courage’.”

Renée smiled. "I think she'll do fine. You can be tough, Andrew, but you have a good heart. And Betsy will certainly make everyone feel welcome.”

The next night, Andrew received a letter from Nicky. He knew he had neglected his cousin, and as he opened the letter, he promised himself he would respond as soon as possible.

'Dear Andrew,

Please respond to my letters! I miss you. It's been lonely here. I didn’t get the job at Durmstrang, but I’m working in a greenhouse in Hamburg. It's a good job, but I miss the conversations and laughter with the others, and of course, your indifference that always draws me in. I also miss Aaron. His presence always made me feel better.

Speaking of Aaron, I heard he has a girlfriend. That’s great! I hope she's good to him. I'm curious to know what you'll think of her. And of course, Bee must be excited about your visit. She always makes everything seem better.

Things here in Germany are very different. I'm learning a lot about magical plants we've never seen at Hogwarts. I think you’d like to see some of them, especially those with medicinal properties. Maybe I can send you some samples when I come home.

I hope you're taking care of yourself and doing well in your classes. I’m glad to hear you're playing Quidditch, even if you don't like it that much.

Please don't forget to write back this time. Merlin! I really miss you.

Love,

Nicky.

P.S.: I’ll send some German sweets for you and Aaron. Hope you like them!'

Andrew felt a weight of guilt as he read the letter. He knew he should have responded sooner. He promised himself he would write to Nicky that very night. He carefully folded the letter and put it in his bag.

As he got up from the table, Neil, who had somehow infiltrated the Hufflepuff common room, looked at him with curiosity. "Something important?”

Andrew shook his head. "Just a letter from Nicky. I need to reply.”

Neil nodded, a sympathetic smile on his lips. “If I, who wasn’t very close to him, miss him, I can only imagine how you must feel.”

It was true. He would never admit it, but Andrew missed Nicky a lot. They always talked and studied in the dormitories. It made a big difference not having him there.

"I’ll write to him tonight." Andrew said, his voice a bit softer than usual.

Neil smiled.

"After all," Andrew narrowed his eyes, "what the hell are you doing here? Do you know what time it is?"

Neil laughed, raising his hands in surrender. "I know, I know. You know me. I wanted to see you..."

Andrew huffed, but there was a slight smile on his lips. "You should be in your own common room, Josten. If any teacher catches you here, we'll be in trouble."

Neil shrugged. "I just wanted to see how you were."

Seeing the redhead’s expression turn melancholic, Andrew tilted his head. "It's not just that, is it?"

"No..." Neil ran a hand through his curly red hair. "I couldn't sleep. Not even the mint humbugs helped." He looked at his own feet, thoughtful. "Can I... sleep with you? Again?"

Andrew blinked.

It wasn't new. At least it shouldn't be.

They had already slept together once. But it was once, and it was by accident.

It was at the end of their fifth year. They were in the Astronomy Tower, and Andrew had just talked about Drake and that whole odious situation. Both were so tired they couldn't even sit up, and ended up lying on the floor and talking that way. At some point, Andrew wasn’t sure who did it first, but they fell asleep.

They literally slept. They passed out until the morning sun illuminated their faces and they woke up, startled by how close they were to each other.

That was the best night of Andrew's life.

And, apparently, Neil saw it that way too. Otherwise, he wouldn’t be asking this now.

Andrew blinked, surprised, but his expression soon softened. "You know this could cause trouble, right?"

Neil nodded, his gaze fixed on his own feet. "I know, but... I just need this tonight."

Andrew sighed, shaking his head. "You're an idiot, Josten." He stood up, taking Neil's hand and pulling him towards the dormitory. "Come on, before someone sees us."

They walked in silence through the corridors, their steps quick and stealthy. When they reached Andrew's dormitory, he closed the door quietly behind them, trying not to wake his roommates.

Andrew sat down next to Neil after closing the curtains around his bed. In silence, the blonde lay down. There was a brief moment of hesitation before Neil moved closer, offering a "Yes or no?" before laying his head on Andrew's shoulder. Andrew's heart beat faster, but he didn't pull away.

"Was it a tough night?" Andrew asked, his voice softer than usual.

Neil nodded. "Yes. A lot on my mind."

Andrew understood that feeling well. "Well, you're here now. You can relax."

He felt Neil smile against his shoulder. "Thanks, Drew. You're very important to me... I feel like I can be myself with you."

Andrew's heart skipped a beat. Then another. And then another.

Neil's confession and the nickname made Andrew's heart race even more, but he forced himself to stay calm.

They remained silent for a moment, simply enjoying each other's comforting proximity. For Andrew, that was all he needed at that moment.

"Night, Josten." Andrew finally said, feeling a slight tingle of nervousness in his voice.

"Goodnight, Drew." Neil replied softly.

✴ · ✵ · ✴

A few weeks later

‘Dear Andrew,

I hope this letter finds you well and in good health. Aaron and I miss you a lot here. I'm happy to hear that you are dedicating yourself to your studies and Quidditch, but don't forget to take care of yourself as well. Your health and well-being are just as important as your academic and athletic achievements.

Nicky told me about his work in the greenhouse in Hamburg and the magical plants he is studying. I was fascinated by the stories he shared. Maybe you two can exchange some experiences when you both come home for Christmas.

Speaking of Christmas, you should invite your friends so we can all celebrate together. We have enough space, and I would be happy to see Renée again and meet those Neil and Allison I've heard so much about.

Please don't forget to reply to Nicky's letters. He misses you more than you can imagine.

Take care, Andrew, and know that I am always here for you, no matter what happens.

With all my love,

Bee.’

Andrew put the letter in his bag and placed a square of one of the German chocolates that Nicky had sent him in his mouth.

“Is it a letter from Betsy?” Renée asked.

Today, instead of Andrew being at the Slytherin table, Renée, Neil, and Allison had followed him like damned horseflies to the Hufflepuff table. Oh, no, wait, horseflies only go after rubbish, right? Never mind.

“Yes.” He nodded. “She said you can all come to my house for Christmas.”

Allison let out a small squeal of surprise, startling a group of Hufflepuffs and Ravenclaws who seemed to be discussing Divination classes. “Minyard's Muggle house?!” She exclaimed excitedly. “Of course!” She turned to Neil, who was eating fried chicken and just watching the interaction with an amused glint in his eyes. “Let’s go right after Yule!”

Neil finished chewing the chicken and looked at Andrew with those ice-blue eyes that were extremely refreshing, smiling. “Sure.”

“In that case,” Renée said enthusiastically, finishing her pumpkin juice. “I think I’ll go too.”

Andrew nodded, with a somewhat sceptical expression, and finished eating his sweets.

✴ · ✵ · ✴

Later, in Potions class with the Slytherins, Andrew stood in the room while the professor droned on about a potion called Amortentia, which is essentially a love potion that creates a deep and irresistible obsession in the person who consumes it. However, it doesn't generate true love, only a strong physical attraction.

Amortentia has a different aroma for each person, depending on what particularly attracts the individual. For example, it might smell like what the person likes most in the world, such as food, flowers… or specific people. A special person. Someone you love.

This thought made him recall Neil, who had not yet entered the classroom. Andrew found himself lost in thought while the professor talked about Amortentia. He couldn't help but think of Neil and what the potion might smell like for him.

Meanwhile, the professor continued his explanation, mentioning the dangers and limitations of the potion, emphasising that it didn't create true love, only an illusory and dangerous attraction. Then he called out:

“Would anyone like to volunteer to smell the aroma?” When no one volunteered, the professor prompted: “Mr Minyard, perhaps?”

Andrew frowned. He knew that Amortentia was a powerful and dangerous potion, and he wasn't comfortable with the idea of being exposed to the aroma it might have for him.

However, he knew that refusing the professor's request could raise suspicions, lead to possible arguments and even a trip to the head of house's office – believe me, he had tried before, and the result hadn't been positive. So, he took a deep breath and agreed, albeit reluctantly. He approached the table where the professor was preparing the potion and closed his eyes, trying to prepare for what was to come.

Suddenly, the classroom door opened and Neil entered, interrupting Andrew's daydreams. The blond felt a chill run down his spine when their eyes met, and he wondered if Neil could feel the same kind of attraction that Amortentia caused.

Neil looked around at Andrew and the rest of the students, who were staring at him, and he shrank back, a slight blush on his cheeks, joining them around the table.

Damn, Andrew hadn't even leaned over the cauldron yet and could already smell a... refreshing aroma?

Damn. He wanted it to smell like ice cream or chocolate. Some Muggle ice cream like Ben and Jerry's or... something from Florean Fortescue's Ice Cream Parlour.

The scent that hit his nostrils was surprisingly familiar and comforting. There were notes of wet grass, earth, leather... just like the Quidditch pitch during a rainy match..., mint, more like peppermint, and... parchment. Old parchment.

“Mr Minyard?” The professor called. “Can you tell us what you smell?”

Andrew took a deep breath. “Quidditch pitch in the rain, old parchment... and mint, peppermint.”

The professor nodded, satisfied with Andrew's response. “Interesting combination, Mr Minyard. These scents often reflect things or people you love or are deeply connected to.”

Andrew stepped back from the cauldron, his heart still pounding. He avoided looking directly at Neil, but he felt his presence more intensely than ever. It was strange how Amortentia seemed to have revealed something he already knew but had never fully admitted to himself.

“Thank you, Mr Minyard. Now, who else would like to try?” The professor asked, turning to the other students.

Neil, with his dishevelled and creased uniform – Allison would kill him for that –, stepped forward, curiosity shining in his refreshing blue eyes. “Can I try?”

The professor nodded with a smile. “Of course, Mr Josten. Go ahead.”

Neil approached the cauldron and leaned in slightly, inhaling the potion's aroma. His eyes closed for a moment, and a small smile formed on his lips. “My Merlin... I smell... Quidditch gloves made of dragon hide..., butterbeer in winter and... books. Old books, to be specific. Like the ones in the restricted section.”

“It's concerning that you know the scent of books from the restricted section, Mr Josten...” The professor said, and the students laughed, “but thank you.”

“Sir...” Neil straightened up, stepping back from the cauldron. “Sorry to ask, but...” He studied the potion with a sparkle in his eyes. “What is this?”

“Oh, Merlin! Mr Josten,” The professor shook his head, while some of the students laughed again. “This is a very fascinating and at the same time dangerous potion. This is Amortentia, the most powerful love potion that exists. It doesn't create true love, but a deep and irresistible obsession in the person who consumes it. The scent you smell is unique to each person and reflects the things or people that attract you the most, Mr Josten.”

Neil nodded slowly, absorbing the explanation. He cast a quick glance at Andrew, who was avoiding his gaze.

As the lesson continued, Andrew and Neil couldn't help but think about the scents the potion had revealed. Andrew thought about the notes of Quidditch pitch, mint, and parchment he had smelled. All the aromas seemed to point directly to Neil.

“Now, let's proceed with the lesson,” the professor said, bringing everyone's attention back to the potion in the cauldron. “Let's discuss the ingredients and the complexity of brewing Amortentia. Who can tell me why this potion is considered one of the most dangerous?”

Andrew tried to focus on the lesson, but the revelation from Amortentia hung over them like an undeniable truth. The connection between them, previously implicit and unspoken, now seemed as clear as the scents they had smelled.

After the lesson, as the students began to leave, Neil approached Andrew. “Are you okay?”

Andrew nodded, though his heart was still racing. “Yeah. And you?”

Neil smiled, a smile that made Andrew's heart race even more. “Yes, yes, I'm fine.”

✴ · ✵ · ✴

“I heard you had a lesson on Amortentia today?!” Allison asked, joining Andrew, Renée, and Neil at the Hufflepuff table. “Is it true, sweetie?”

“Yes...” Neil murmured, drinking pumpkin juice. “It was... strange...”

Renée smiled sympathetically. “I remember that feeling...”

“What did you smell?” Allison asked, reaching out and stealing a muffin from Andrew’s plate, who shot her a deadly look and leaned over the table, grabbing the muffin back from her hand.

“I smelled... basically, the scent of butterbeer, dragon leather, and old books,” Neil explained, while Andrew stuffed a large portion of the muffin into his mouth and chewed with his mouth open, while Allison watched, disgusted and incredulous.

“Oooh!” Renée smiled. “That’s a very interesting mix, Neil.” She looked at Andrew, who had already swallowed what he was eating. “And you, Andrew?”

“And me what?” Andrew looked slightly to the side, feigning ignorance.

Allison rolled her eyes. “What did you smell in the Amortentia?”

The blond finished eating the rest of the muffin. “Quidditch pitch in the rain, mint, and old parchment.”

"And what scent did you two smell last year?" Neil asked abruptly.

Renée looked surprised but answered calmly: “I smelled jasmine, blueberry muffins, and parchment from freshly opened books.”

Allison nodded, as if remembering something. “And I smelled sandalwood incense, green apple, and unicorn blood.”

Andrew observed the interaction with a thoughtful look. He knew that Amortentia had revealed more than just scent preferences. It had brought to the surface feelings he preferred to keep hidden.

✴ · ✵ · ✴

“Toc, toc!” Renée's voice called from behind the door.

Andrew looked up from his Ancient Runes homework and said, “No one’s home...”

“Yes, there is, you bastard!” she said, opening the door and stepping into Andrew's dorm room with a green apple in hand. “Where are your roommates?”

“Dunno, probably getting up to some mischief...” 

“Hey!” A boy, who Andrew never paid much attention to, shouted from his bed, which was thankfully far from Andrew’s.

The blond glanced at him and shrugged. “Not you, mate.”

Renée jumped onto the other bed and glanced at the book Andrew was holding. “Runes?” she asked, taking a bite of her apple.

“Uh-huh...”

The girl settled in, watching him as he delved back into his Ancient Runes. “You seem thoughtful.” she commented after another bite of her apple.

Andrew sighed, closing the book and finally looking at Renée. “That’s just how I am.”

Renée smiled, knowing something more was on Andrew’s mind, and placed the apple on the bedside table. “That’s just how you are when you’re thinking a bit too much about a certain redhead who’s completely oblivious to your crush,” she whispered.

The blond shot her a deadly look. “Shut up.”

“Tell me, Andrew,” she leaned in, keeping her voice low so Andrew’s roommate wouldn’t hear. “The smell you sensed in the Amortentia, it was Neil, wasn’t it?”

“And what about you?” Andrew raised an eyebrow. “How did it feel to smell Reynolds, your best friend, in the Amortentia?”

Renée's face turned completely red. “Andrew...” She hid her face in the blankets.

“What...” Andrew chuckled. “Can’t I respond to a sassy comment with another sassy comment?”

Renée looked at him. “Sometimes I think you have more Slytherin in you than Hufflepuff.”

The blond chuckled again. “Funny, Walker. But no.”

Renée pulled her face from the blankets, still blushing but with a determined smile. “Okay, you got me this time. But seriously, Andrew, you can’t keep ignoring what you feel.”

Andrew sighed, running a hand through his hair. “I know, Renée. It’s just... complicated.”

“Of course it is,” she agreed. “But life is full of complications. If we don’t face them, we’ll never know what could have been.”

When he didn’t say anything more, the girl sighed. “How about starting by being honest with yourself?” Renée suggested. “Admit that what you feel is real and then, maybe, find a way to talk to Neil about it.”

Andrew frowned. “Talk to Neil? Merlin! What if he...”

“What if he what?” Renée interrupted gently. “What if he feels the same? Or if he doesn’t, at least you’ll know, and you can move on.” She laughed softly. “To be honest... I think Neil also smelled you in the Amortentia.”

The blond rolled his eyes and reopened his book. “I’m tired of talking about Amortentia today.”

Renée just laughed and changed the subject: “Your birthday’s coming up, isn’t it?”

✴ · ✵ · ✴

A few days later

“Congratulations, Andrew!”

“Happy Birthday, pest!”

“Happy Birthday, Drew!”

Andrew looked up from Aaron's letter.

“What the hell is this?” he asked, staring at Renée, Neil, and Allison.

The three were wearing paper birthday hats. Neil had a noisy party blower between his lips, Renée was carrying a chocolate and strawberry cake, and Allison was holding a confetti cannon.

As soon as she popped it, many of the students turned to look at the group.

Dan and Matt shouted their birthday wishes from the Gryffindor table, while Jeremy — the Hufflepuff Quidditch captain — and Catalina clapped and cheered, and all Andrew could do was close his eyes tightly and take a deep breath.

“Merlin… I’m going to kill you a lot.” he muttered.

Allison laughed. “No, you won’t! You love us!”

Renée placed the cake on the table in front of Andrew, while Neil took the party blower out of his mouth, laughing. “Congratulations, Drew!” he said, smiling warmly.

Andrew looked at the cake, feeling a mix of gratitude and embarrassment. “You didn’t have to do this,” he murmured, knowing he was blushing despite himself.

“Of course we did!” Allison exclaimed, pushing a slice of cake towards Andrew. “It’s your birthday, after all!”

Renée nodded, taking a candle shaped like the number 16 and placing it on top of the cake. “And don’t worry, we’re not planning to make a big fuss. Just a little celebration among friends.”

“Alright,” Andrew said, reaching out and removing the candle from the cake. “But no singing happy birthday.”

Allison grinned and started to sing, “Happy birthday to-”

“You better shut up before I cast a Silencing Charm on you,” the blond threatened, pulling his wand — oak, yew, and a dragon heartstring core — from his pocket, making the other laugh and raise her hands in surrender.

✴ · ✵ · ✴

Later that same day, Andrew was in the astronomy tower when a thud made him jump in surprise. He looked back, eyes wide, to find it was just Neil.

The idiot had stumbled on a few steps of the staircase.

"Hey, Drew!" he greeted, excitedly. "Knew you'd be here!" Neil straightened up and sat beside Andrew, who simply returned his gaze to the stars.

"I've got something for you!" Neil smiled, reaching into his old leather bag and pulling out what seemed to be a golden snitch.

"What the hell is this?" Andrew asked, furrowing his brow.

"A golden snitch, obviously," Neil teased. "This was the first golden snitch I ever caught..."

"Hmm?" Andrew raised an eyebrow. "But there's only one golden snitch..."

"Of course not..." the redhead laughed. "They have others stashed away! I nicked this one, and they haven't noticed yet, or if they have, they've never come to talk to me about it..."

The blond chuckled. "You're unbelievable..."

Neil grinned. "Here!" He handed over the snitch, its wings flapping rapidly, seemingly eager to escape Neil's grasp. "It's for you!"

Andrew took the snitch hesitantly, feeling the cold metal texture against his skin. He watched as the wings tucked in and hid within the metal. "Why are you giving me this?"

Neil shrugged, with a genuine smile. "You mean a lot to me, Drew. And I wanted to give you something special. Something that symbolises how important you are."

Andrew felt his heart race at Neil's words. His lips curved slightly into a small, almost imperceptible smile. "Thank you..."

The two fell into silence for a moment, simply enjoying each other's company under the starry sky.

Neil, with his audacious manner and eyes that mirrored the stars, was the light that illuminated Andrew's darkest parts. And Andrew, with his steadfastness and loyalty, was the safe haven that Neil needed.

In the quiet of the night, with only the stars as witnesses, Andrew realised that perhaps, just perhaps, he wasn't alone.

✴ · ✵ · ✴

A few weeks later 

            "Bye! See you at Christmas!" Allison hugged Renée tightly.

Neil exchanged a glance with Andrew. "See you later!" He bumped his fist. The blond analysed his hand and bumped his own fist. "Drew... um..." Neil looked to the side, a blush on his cheeks. "Can I hug you? Yes or no?"

Andrew felt his heart race in his chest. He swallowed hard before nodding slowly. "Yes."

With a slow movement, Neil pulled Andrew close and wrapped him in a hug. Hesitantly, Andrew did the same.

Neil smelled like a Quidditch field in the rain, mint candies, and parchment. Andrew closed his eyes, taking in the comforting sensation of that moment.

While the other students said their goodbyes and prepared for the holidays, Andrew and Neil remained there, on the platform, hugging for a few more seconds.

✴ · ✵ · ✴

"It's so good to see you again, Renée!" Bee said once everyone was in the car. "It's great that Andrew has a friend like you."

"A friend like her?" Andrew chuckled. "Spend a whole year with her and you'll see..."

"Hey!" Renée laughed. "I'm an angel!"

"Oh, yeah... a wolf in sheep's clothing."

They continued the conversation until Renée brought up Aaron. "I heard you're dating someone?"

"Hmm..." Aaron pondered, probably finding it odd that Renée was chatting so casually with him. "Yes, I am."

"That's great! And don't worry, I've talked to Andrew about not killing her."

Andrew chuckled. "I didn't promise anything..."

Renée laughed, shaking her head. "I know you'll behave, Andrew."

Aaron gave his brother a suspicious look, but there was a hint of a smile on his lips. "I hope you're right, Renée."

"And will Neil and Allison be coming for Christmas?" Bee asked, looking at them through the rearview mirror.

Andrew nodded. "Yes, they usually celebrate Yule, so they'll be celebrating it at Neil's uncle's house and then they'll come to spend Christmas with us."

"That's great! I'm looking forward to finally meeting them!"

"And will Nicky be coming?" Renée asked. "I heard he's working in a greenhouse in Germany?"

"Yes, yes," Bee nodded. "He'll be here for Christmas too!"

"That's great! Hogwarts really misses him!”

✴ · ✵ · ✴

A few days later 

              The doorbell rang, and Andrew felt ecstatic. Neil and Allison had called him, saying they would arrive one day before Christmas Eve.

The blond got up from the sofa and opened the door.

"Hey!" Neil smiled.

Allison laughed. "Hey there, little pest!"

"Andrew? Have they arrived?" Bee asked, appearing behind Andrew, drying her hands with a tea towel. Renée appeared right behind her, smiling.

"Yes, they've arrived." Andrew replied, opening the door completely for Neil and Allison to enter.

Renée quickly approached, hugging Neil and then Allison. "It's so good to see you!"

Neil returned the hug, smiling. "It's great to see you too, Renée."

Allison stepped forward, hugging Bee. "Thank you so much for having us, Mrs. Dobson."

"Oh, please, call me Bee," she said, returning the hug warmly. "And it's a pleasure to have all of you here. Andrew talks a lot about you."

"Does he really?" Neil raised an eyebrow, looking at Andrew with a mischievous smile.

Andrew chuckled but couldn't help a slight smile. "Only when you deserve it."

Neil surveys the living room. "Oh, Merlin! Is that a telly?! Alli! A telly!”

✴ · ✵ · ✴

Christmas Eve arrived quickly. The house was decorated with twinkling lights and shiny ornaments, and the table was filled with delicious food.

"So, Nicky, how's life in Germany?" Neil asked, looking at Andrew's cousin.

Nicky grinned broadly. "It's amazing! I love working in the greenhouse! And... well, besides that, I've met someone... interesting..."

"Really?" Aaron asked, beside Katelyn. "And what's he like?"

Katelyn wasn't that bad. She seemed like a decent person, at least. But Andrew would be keeping an eye out.

"Tell us everything!" Allison urged excitedly.

"Oh! He's fantastic!" Nicky smiled. "His name is Erick, and he's working in the same area as me!"

"That's great, Nicky." Bee smiled.

"You're missed at Hogwarts." Renée commented.

"I miss Hogwarts too..." Nicky admitted. "But it's nice to be here with all of you."

When they exchanged gifts, they sat around the Christmas tree. Neil had stolen one of Andrew's jumpers, which he much preferred seeing Neil wear than wearing it himself.

In the end, Andrew received an Ancient Runes book from Nicky, new Quidditch gloves from Renée, a jumper from Allison, and a book called "The Perks of Being a Wallflower" from Neil. Bee and Aaron gave him a Cigarettes After Sex record.

Andrew had given Neil a Muggle camera.

"Oh!" Neil looked at him with bright eyes. "Thank you so much, Drew!"

Andrew shrugged. "You seemed to like that camera Dan brought this year..."

"Yes... I liked it." Neil smiled. "I loved it, thank you."

The gift exchange continued, and the room filled with laughter and lively conversations. Everyone was visibly happy, and the atmosphere was one of pure contentment.

"Let's take a picture with your new camera, sweetie!" Allison suggested, getting up and pulling Neil along.

Neil laughed, adjusting the camera and calling everyone to gather in front of the Christmas tree. He set the timer and ran to the group, hugging Andrew from the side as the camera captured the moment.

✴ · ✵ · ✴

Andrew was washing the dishes while Aaron dried and put away the plates and cutlery.

"Well," Aaron began. "I have Katelyn, Nicky has Erick, and you... have Neil?"

Andrew almost dropped a glass. "W- what?" He furrowed his brow.

"Oh, for god's sake, Andrew!" Aaron laughed. "It's so obvious it's like a joke!"

"You know nothing." Andrew said, frustrated by the blush he was sure was creeping up his cheeks. "Shut up."

"'Oh! Thank you so much, Drew!'" Aaron chuckled. "'I loved it, Drew! I love you, little Drew!'"

"I'm going to hex you, Aaron." Andrew threatened, trying to hide his embarrassment.

Aaron just laughed, giving Andrew a pat on the shoulder. "Relax, 'Drew'. I'm just kidding. But seriously, you should talk to him. It's clear he feels something for you too."

Andrew huffed but didn't reply. The idea of confessing his feelings to Neil seemed daunting, but the seed had been planted.

✴ · ✵ · ✴

Later, when the house was quiet and everyone was in bed, Andrew decided to go outside for some fresh air. He walked to the garden, where the Christmas lights twinkled softly, creating a magical atmosphere.

He wasn't alone for long. Neil appeared at the door, wrapped in a blanket. "I knew I'd find you here." He said, with a gentle smile.

Andrew looked at him, and a warmth spread through his chest. "Couldn't sleep." He admitted.

Neil approached and extended the blanket, inviting Andrew to share. "Maybe this will help."

Andrew hesitated for a moment but eventually accepted. They sat side by side, sharing the blanket and the comfortable silence.

"You were amazing today." Neil suddenly said, breaking the silence. "It was the best Christmas I've ever had." Neil turned to face him, and his eyes sparkled in the starlight. "I'm happy, Drew. Really happy. And a big part of that is because of you."

Andrew felt his heart race. He didn't know what to say, but Neil's words encouraged him. "I... I'm happy too." He finally said. "Happier than I ever imagined."

Neil smiled, and the distance between them seemed to shrink. "Drew, I... I wanted..." He glanced briefly at Andrew's lips. "Yes or no?"

Without hesitation, Andrew closed the gap between them, his lips meeting Neil's in a soft, hesitant kiss. Neil immediately returned it, and in that moment, under the stars and Christmas lights, everything felt perfect.

When they pulled away, they were both smiling. "Merry Christmas, Neil." Andrew whispered, feeling a warmth he had never felt before.

Neil caressed Andrew's cheek, still smiling. "Merry Christmas, Drew.”