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Robin sighed, she hadn’t been looking forward to this. She gripped the handle of her trunk, licking her lips anxiously as she looked around. The platform was filled with parents and children, all hugging and saying goodbyes to each other. She could see little figures of possible first-years and couldn’t help but reminisce of her first time to Hogwarts.
It certainly had been a magical experience, if she was to say. It brought a smile to her face, clearing a little of the anxiety in her. Casting a quick Tempus , Robin exhaled exasperatedly seeing that the train would depart in 15 minutes. Everyone else was already boarding a train and Robin wasn’t even sure she would find an empty compartment.
She fiddled with the end of her tie, standing there like a lost child even though she was well a 7th year student. Still, it didn’t stop passing parents to glance at her with curiosity and concern, only not approaching due to her older appearance than their children.
At that point, Robin was already feeling embarrassed and almost opted to board the train alone. Her friends all had a terrible sense of time. Just then, she spotted the familiar mop of grey with other myriads of colours trailing close.
“ Robin! ” March 7th greeted, bouncing up to her to give a hug that Robin returned with similar energy. She giggled as March placed a little kiss on her cheek. Stelle jumped in on the hug too, eliciting a strangled yelp from March, to which Dan Heng was quick to pull away the grey haired girl by her collar. March proceeded to release the hug to smack Stelle, who let out a pained wail.
Dan Heng shook his head, “ Apologies for the delay. Stelle got lost. “ Robin raised an eyebrow at that. “ Yeah, you would think she’d memorise where platform 9 ⅘ is. ”
The Gryffindor scoffed, “ Not my fault the platform all looks the same. ”
March proceeded to smack her again, “ Are you illiterate? There’s platform numbers for a reason! “ Stelle shrieked as she hid behind Dan Heng, who held back the urge to bury his face in his hands out of agony. Robin laughed, settling the girls off before they got into a fist fight. Merlin knows that had happened before.
“ We should head on now, the train is going to move in 10 minutes. ” She recalled as the four boarded the train urgently. Robin was just glad to make it on the train. They walked for quite a while, checking each compartment to see whether there was any that was empty. Stelle almost got into a fight with a group of Ravenclaws.
“ I don’t think there’s any empty compartment anymore. ” March pouted as they stood in the middle.
“ We should crash. ” Stelle suggested and headed to the closest compartment, even when March tried to stop her while Dan Heng sighed in resignation. The door opened and Misha’s bewildered expression greeted them. His confused frown morphed into a beaming smile.
“ Misha! ” March and Stelle yelled, smothering the little boy with a big hug. Dan Heng, for all his stoic face, couldn't help the smile ghosting his lips as he patted Misha’s head. The boy shrieked in joy at being showered with affections by his seniors.
Seeing her, Misha lit up even more. “ Miss Robin! Thank you for taking care of me last time and lending me your defence book. ” The boy said with a hint of embarrassment, to which Robin waved off with a smile.
“ Nothing of such, Misha. I’m glad you were able to find use in my old materials. ” The older Hufflepuff laughed at Misha’s beaming smile.
“ Mind we sit with you? ” March asked and it took nothing for Misha to nod profusely, having the notion of his favourite seniors accompanying him all the more fun than sitting alone.
“ Miss Robin, how have you and Miss Aisling been doing? ” Misha asked curiously, although there’s a different shine in his eyes that Robin couldn't pinpoint. The mention of her best friend’s family name caught her off guard.
“ Well, not much? Firefly and I did visit the prominent landmarks of France before we went to visit the Illustrated Museum to learn more of the magical history we were interested in. ” Robin shrugged, recalling the good times she had with her best friend.
Not noticing the weird look the other four gave her, March piped up. “ Sooo, you guys went on a date? ”
Stelle slapped her leg, which made March yelp in shock.
Robin furrowed her eyebrows, ignoring the heat on her face. “ Sure. ” She laughed, also ignoring how her hands were sweating.
“ Do you like her? ” Misha asked intently, an anxious look of anticipation on his face.
“ …Yes? She’s my best friend. ” She said, even if the words felt weird on her tongue. It left a slight bitter aftertaste in her mouth. All of them seemed to stare at her for a moment.
March seemed quite confused while the other three just kind of stared at her sympathetically.
Robin didn’t want to know what that meant.
Arriving at Hogsmead Station felt as natural as possible, even as her heart thumped rigorously against her ribs. Stepping off the train, Robin’s eyes immediately searched around, hoping to see the ash-blonde colour she had come to love.
The other four were closely behind her, with March and Stelle arguing over another topic. The station was bustling with students and Robin smiled at the sight of little first-years following Professor Welt like ducklings.
“ That’s how you looked back then. ”
“ I wasn’t that small! ”
“ I’m taller than you. ”
Dan Heng had to hold March by the collar to prevent her from lunging at Stelle. The latter had decided to hide behind Misha, who looked confused at the scene.
Robin snickered before her eyes caught a glimpse of ash-blonde bobbing through the crowd. The warmth in her chest grew with anticipation as Robin ignored the little voice inside her head. She felt giddy and excited, wing fluttering in unison. Dan Heng shot her a weird look.
Robin couldn’t help the glee piling up in her as she tried to stop a smile from forming. Through the crowd, sunset eyes met with her emerald ones, which crinkled into shining happiness and shone with so much love. Robin swallowed unconsciously.
Their steps matched each other until Robin dragged Firefly into a hug, squeezing her best friend for life. Firefly reciprocated all the same, her magic leaking and humming in content. Robin still couldn't understand the way her heart thumped wildly in her chest, blood rushing to her face. She still hasn't gotten better at ignoring the sensation.
“ I’ve missed you, ” Firefly mumbled into her shoulder, hand absentmindedly patting her back. Robin’s cheek flushed a slight red.
She laughed, “ It’s not like we didn’t see each other at all. ” It’s not like they haven't seen each other during the break, they went on a short vacation together after all.
Firefly chuckled and hummed in agreement, “ Still, I’ve missed you. ”
Robin bit her lower lip, restraining a smile. Her cheeks hurt from smiling all day and they haven’t even started school yet.
They pulled away from the hug, smiling at each other like children who had just successfully stolen the candies. Firefly’s smile grew as she leaned in and kissed her.
The Halovian Hufflepuff sighed contently into the kiss, no matter how short it was as Firefly pulled away.
The kiss was short, only a second longer than usual but Robin tried her best to pointedly ignore the way her heart beat like crazy, banging against the ribs of her chest. She was sure her face was redder than the Gryffindor’s colour.
“ How was the last few days? I heard your Brother held an event. ” Firefly inquired, seamlessly slipping next to Robin as their hands intertwined. They quietly followed the others’ lead, Robin noting the trio’s presence as well as Misha. Although she didn't know why March sent a sympathetic look.
“ Oh, he did, yes. Well, he did it mostly out of tradition as it was mandatory for every child to hold a Coming-of-Age ball. I reckon I would have to do the same too. ” Robin shrugged, noticing Asta and Arlan had joined their little group. She smiled at the two Ravenclaw, who waved at her.
Firefly grimaced at the thought of a ball. “ Did Sunday finally get his courage to dance? ” She grinned, knowing of Sunday’s obtusely clear complaint of finding a partner to dance with. Morgana knows her brother hated dancing more than anything else.
Robin snickered, “ He could complain all he wanted but he didn't look twice when Mister Avgin asked his hand for a dance. ” Firefly at least had the means to look shocked. Robin had used every willpower she had not to burst out laughing when she saw the scene.
“ Oh, how much I wished I was there to see it. ” Firefly sighed dramatically, lamenting her fate. Robin giggled, bumping her shoulders against Firefly’s, whose grip on their intertwined hand grew slightly stronger. Robin was sure the heat on her face was because of the cold.
They made it to Hogwarts, automatically making their way to the Grand Hall as per custom. Unfortunately, most of them would have to separate from here. Asta, Arlan and Dan Heng head over to their respective house table while Stelle had gone alone, leaving Firefly to accompany Robin and March to the Hufflepuff table.
It wasn't weird to see other colours on a different house table, although it didn't really stop the look of scepticism and lingering glances. Most tend to stick to their housemates after all. But the green on Firefly’s robe definitely garnered more attention.
Robin took a seat next to March, who casually started a conversation with their other friends. She held onto Firefly’s hand, squeezing it slightly to send her message. Something akin to adoration lit up in Firefly’s eyes as she leaned down, once again kissing Robin.
The kiss was short like usual. Firefly’s eyes softened, “ See you in class? ”
Robin seemed barely able to catch her breath, “ Yeah. See you in class. ” She smiled, waving as Firefly made her way to her house table.
Robin exhaled, shaking her hand slightly as she frowned at the lack of warmth. She looked up to see the entire table staring at her.
“ What? ” She asked dumbly.
No one answered her as they all turned away, while March gave a sympathetic look.
Robin and Firefly were good friends. They had been for years now, once meeting in a little private event Robin’s father had set up with his closest friends and associates– where the two clicked like nobody else could.
They played with each other all the time, laughing and cheering with joy at everything they did together. Robin and Firefly started learning the basics of magic together, exploring the wonders together. They fantasised and wondered about the day they would receive their Hogwarts letter. They were best friends; each other’s half.
When the day for Hogwarts came, Robin was sorted into Hufflepuff– while Firefly went into Slytherin. It made communication a bit hard, seeing as Slytherins were closed off and Firefly– in all her anxiety to make friends, had followed their customs.
She acted distant and a little cold, but Robin could see the guilt wallowing in her eyes.
But Robin wasn't sorted into Hufflepuff for no reason. Firefly didn't even last for half a year putting up the act because Robin was so stubborn and adamant on getting her best friend back. Many words were exchanged, some hurtful and others scalding hot until it mellowed down to tears and apologies.
It was four in the morning when Robin stumbled into the kitchen, half awake and sight blurry but determined to get through with her plan. The kitchen staff merely raised an eyebrow at her before leaving her to her own device.
She's not the best at baking— evident by how the flour had exploded – which Robin sure wasn't supposed to happen but she did it! She got the recipe from a senior– when she asked for a gift that could strengthen her relationship with Firefly. Although the cake looked a little crook and messy, Robin counted it as a job well done.
The morning she presented the cake to Firefly, she hadn't missed the way Firefly’s eyes widened– not in surprise, more in shock. It was a three layered cake, with each layer topped with whipped cream and strawberries. A Lancashire cake.
Firefly opened her mouth for a second before she shut up with a click. She looked like she struggled to say something before turning to Robin with a pleading look.
Robin— in all her goodwill, probably thought Firefly felt touched at the gesture —laughed and leaned up to kiss her on the cheek. Firefly squawked before Robin bid her goodbye and left.
When Kafka and Blade entered a moment after and saw the cake, the woman burst out laughing and Blade just looked at Firefly with mild sympathy.
The first time it happened– it was the upcoming Hogwarts Quidditch Cup season for their third-year. Robin was sitting at the bleachers, notebook in hand as she quietly watched Firefly zoomed around on her broom. Her best friend looked quite distressed and had dragged her to watch her practice.
It would be weird to see a Hufflepuff sitting in the bleachers, watching the Slytherin practice. Quidditch practice was a bit sacred to the students. But everyone knew of that one Hufflepuff and Slytherin duo.
Blade- a sixth year -had told others to leave them alone. So, no one really bat an eye at Robin’s presence.
( “ Mind your business. ” Blade had hissed out at one of the quidditch players that tried to kick out Robin.
“ Shut up and get back to practise. ” Blade snapped, making the group of players scrambled away. He looked at her and gave nothing more than a nod.
Firefly looked like she had just found her idol. Robin burst out laughing. )
The team got used to her presence over time once they were sure she wasn’t going to spill anything to her respective house’s quidditch team. Robin wasn’t all that interested in the sport anyway.
Her attention was taken away when a familiar rush of wind came by, Firefly stopping right by the bleacher on her broom before she dropped down. Her hair was ruffled, a sheen of sweat clinging around her forehead. She clutched the broom’s handle, taking time to breathe.
Firefly glowered, “ Stupid people and their stupid, obnoxious, annoying, behaviour. Bloody show off. I can do better as a seeker , my arse.” The Slytherin hissed under her breath as she sat down next to Robin. Immediately, Robin tugged her closer and ran her fingers through Firefly’s hair. They— Well, Firefly had become more affectionate since that day.
Firefly also usually didn't curse or complain, unless it was warranted.
Robin winced with a sound, “ Random guess but is it Skott? ”
Firefly huffed, fixing her position so she could lay down on Robin’s lap. “ It’s not even random anymore; you’re spot on. That idiotic guy seemed to have his entire brain and knuckles receded even further. I wondered if he was dropped when he was a baby. ” Firefly spat out, eyebrows furrowed and chest heaving. Robin hummed, fidgeting with the end of Firefly’s hood.
“ He’s an idiot, yeah. I reckon everyone agrees with that. ” Robin giggled breathly as Firefly grumbled, letting the Halovian do her magic. Even when Robin lightly massaged Firefly’s collarbone, the Slytherin didn’t relax. Her body was still stiff and tense– probably from distress.
“ You’re a bit stiff. ” Robin pointed out softly, carefully discerning Firefly’s reaction. She wasn’t going to push it if her best friend didn't want to. Firefly seemed to contemplate for a second- before she sighed in resignation.
“ It’s a little stressful, that's all. With our exam, the work I have to study and the upcoming match. We lost pretty badly to Ravenclaw in the last season and Boris is enacting his revenge on them. ” Firefly confessed, reaching out a hand to brush against Robin's periwinkle hair.
“ Which means he’s dragging the entire quidditch team with him. ” Robin concluded, eyes watching the remaining members of the team train. Firefly rubbed her eyes, “ Something like that. ”
Robin smiled, “ Well, I can help you with studying for exams or other work. I don't know what I can do for quidditch though. ” She offered as Firefly sat up.
“ You can sic Sunday on Skott. ” Firefly grinned. Robin huffed, “ You’ve been spending too much time around Boothill. ” The Slytherin laughed at the mention of the American transfer-student.
She pouted, “ He’s hilarious. ”
“ He’s American. ”
Firefly raised an eyebrow and Robin blanked out. She groaned when Firefly’s smile grew.
“ Hey, Robin? ” Oh Morgana, here comes the reminder that Robin was also American.
“ If I say I want to kiss you, would you let me? ”
There— Wait, what ? That’s— That’s not— Huh ?
Robin couldn't quite process the question. She blinked rapidly, “ Wha– Huh– ”
“ Would you? ” Firefly’s voice was unbearably soft but Robin couldn’t even notice it.
What in Morgana’s tits— What kind of question is that ?!
Firefly reached out for her hand- a soft, gentle grasp. She’s unbearably close to her now and– and suddenly the ground was very interesting.
What is happening ??
Robin inhaled, forcing herself to calm down- for her heart to stop beating so loudly it felt like it was going to explode. She wacked herself internally to jump start her brain that had blanked out.
“ I- I– Firefly— ” Robin sputtered. She bit her lower lip, eyes meeting Firefly’s. She inhaled.
“ Yeah, ” She answered breathlessly, but it was final. Dear Morgana, Robin should start writing her letters to the stars because horrifyingly, she did not hesitate.
“ Really? ” Firefly’s expression was carefully blank.
Robin hummed, nervous but certain. She mentally slammed herself against a wall.
Before she knew it, Firefly was leaning forward and a pair of soft lips were against hers. Robin’s eyes widened. Her brain, once again, stuttered to a stop, slammed into four different walls, roller coaster down the drain in a matter of seconds.
Which was how the kiss was. It lasted for a second or two but the softness and a sense of euphoria lingered. Robin’s chest felt unbearably warm as her heart spiked.
Robin didn't know what exactly was going on as Firefly smiled at her. The Slytherin looked somewhat proud and was beaming. She picked up her broom.
“ Are you going to stay here until evening? ” Firefly questioned. Robin blinked, not expecting the inquiry. Then she smiled, pushing away the hundred thoughts inside her head. Firefly didn’t seem overly mindful of it.
“ Probably, yeah. I don't have class today. I’ll stay here until your team finishes practice. ” Robin answered, picking up her notebook. Her heart hadn’t settled yet, for some reason.
“ Then, you’ll be here all day. ” Firefly teased, mounting her broom with a laid back expression.
“ There's nowhere else I’d rather be, then. ” She replied easily. They slipped back into their dynamic as Firefly laughed, shoulders less tense and looking brighter than before. It didn't look like Firefly made a note of the kiss they had, it was short- barely a second or two. So, it was probably nothing special.
Probably.
It’s a while before the second time it happens— Firefly had finally managed to get the time to study for her upcoming classes, which she didn't really like; evident by her crestfallen face. Robin rubbed her shoulders comfortingly as the Slytherin groaned.
“ This is not working. Everything just leaves my head. ” Firefly said, frowning sadly at the words strewn upon her books. Robin rubbed her back, pushing away the books so Firefly could take a break from looking at paragraphs after paragraphs and risk going bonkers.
“ I think it's because Transfiguration is more of a practical subject. You’d be hard pressed to learn anything if you don't do it. ”
Firefly wailed. Robin panicked slightly, “ At least, you have the theory down! You know the basis of the spell, so it won’t be that hard when you try it in class! ”
“ Robin, you’re aware I’m arse at Transfiguration, right ? ”
The Hufflepuff winced but didn't deny. Which made Firefly cry harder into the table. It was not reassuring if her best friend thought so too.
“ You’re not bad at it. ”
“ Right. Because I’m terrible at it. ”
Robin slapped her on the shoulder, the action barely affecting the Slytherin. “ Don’t say that. ” She frowned, eyebrows furrowed in a way Firefly found adorable. The latter laughed as Robin glared at her.
“ Seriously, I’m bad at Transfiguration. I don’t know how I even passed the exam. ”
“ Well, if you passed the exam then surely you’re better than you think so. ”
“ Professor Herta thinks otherwise. ” Robin rolled her eyes at Firefly’s response. “ Professor Herta always thinks otherwise. ”
Then she paused. “ Unless it's Asta. ”
Firefly snorted, “ Yeah, unless it’s Asta. ”
The library was devoid of anyone else– except for Madam Grace, the librarian. Robin had never seen the library so deserted before. While it usually didn't bustle with noises, it would be filled with students studying or hanging around. It felt like a whiplash when the colours of bronze and blue weren't seen. It made Robin slightly nervous.
And it was definitely not because she was alone with her best friend— best friend, best friend, best friend, best friend, nothing else —and the lingering thought of previous scenes kept popping up in her head. Her heart seemed to pick up on that and was adamant on making Robin feel like she was going to explode. She pointedly ignored all the voices ringing in her head out of panic.
They were just in the library— alone, that is — The librarian is right there— are you seriously counting in the librarian?– They’re best friends, nothing else— but the kiss, oh my god — Best friends kiss all the time — are you serious, right now ? — No, that’s Harry Potter’s Godfather– you’re useless at this.
Her hand felt oddly sweaty. There’s a build of warmth somewhere in her chest and Robin couldn't figure out why. She's aware Firefly was talking, mouth moving as Robin zeroed on her— Immediately, Robin internally slammed herself against a mental brick wall.
Not going to that thought.
“ As he wasn’t— Robin? ” Firefly called out, reaching out to hold her hand. Robin shook herself, “ Y-Yeah? Sorry, what did you say? ”
There was a small frown on Firefly's face as she gazed at Robin, a vague crease between her eyebrows. The Halovian was starting to feel the heat pooled around her neck the more Firefly stared at her— which was weird because why ? They looked at each other all the time so– why did Robin feel shy now ?
A little traitorous voice inside her head reminded her of the kiss.
Firefly leaned closer and Robin leaned back out of surprise. Firefly’s gaze softened, although firm as she seemed to question Robin. Robin swallowed the lump in her throat. She felt like she was going to explode. There’s a silent beat.
And when Firefly leaned in again, Robin didn’t lean away.
It’s the same sensation as their previous kiss, like a blink of an eye as it stayed for only a second or so. The warmth and softness lingered as Firefly pulled away, mirth and glee well shown in her eyes. There’s a satisfied smile dancing on her lips.
Again, Firefly didn’t say anything about the kiss. So neither did Robin.
“ You looked a little out of it just now, ” Firefly pointed out, smiling as she tilted her head. Robin blinked, before she laughed. She told her not to worry and they fell back into their usual rhythm, two best friends studying together in an empty library.
All the while as Robin’s heart raced like no other.
Third time the charm, they say. Robin didn't know if there's any truth to that saying but it had some merits to it. The third time they kissed– things spiralled a bit.
Robin tugged the scarf around her neck as she waited anxiously. Everyone around her was chatting as they all waited anticipatingly for the final match of their third-year Quidditch cup. Robin was seated in the Hufflepuff’s stand, even if the colour of the scarf she wore was green and silver.
Which didn't really matter as Dan Heng, Asta and Arlan were right next to her– blue and red wasn’t really Hufflepuff’s colour.
“ Five galleons one of the Gryffindor gets hit with a bludger. Ten if it's Stelle. ” Asta started and Dan Heng snickered at her proposition. March sighed in pain.
“ Does Stelle get hit often? ” Arlan questioned, being the only second-year between them.
“ If breaking five ribs, two fingers and one arm last season meant ‘get hit often’ then yes. She gets hit very often. ” Asta deadpanned as Arlan winced at the description. He looked a little pale now as he turned away.
“ Let’s not hope for that! ” March shrieked, eyes shaking slightly with fear at the prospect of her best friend getting hurt.
Dan Heng softened, “ Stelle is pretty tough. While I don't want her to get hurt either, it’s a norm in Quidditch. ”
“ Don't worry, we’ll learn necromancy if anything goes wrong. ” Robin offered and Asta nodded. That didn't seem to reassure March. Robin brushed the scarf she wore in concern.
Firefly had handed her the scarf during their second-year, cheeks red and eyes wide with anticipation. Robin had cherished the little clothing since then. It was the beginning of winter, as the cold air made her shiver.
The cheering became thunderous as the announcer began announcing the arrival of both teams. It was usually like this with the final match, but even more so as this was between Slytherin and Gryffindor– a classic rivalry. Most Hufflepuff were right in supporting Gryffindor while Ravenclaws were by the Slytherin’s side.
Of course, house unity and all of that so it didn't matter much which house you support. Except if it was your house, then yes– I get it, Yanqing, Quidditch is important and yes- I support our house, definitely.
Robin snapped out of her thoughts as the Slytherin team was finally announced, a stream of silver zooming out. Robin beamed as Firefly waved at her. The match started with a deafening sound of the horn.
Gryffindor started out aggressive, stealing the quaffle in mere seconds. Robin watched the match as the intensity grew– Gryffindor and Slytherin both scoring and counter attacking.
There's a particular moment where a bludger hit Li Sushang, a Gryffindor chaser, square in the chest like a rocket. The whole crowd winced at the scene but started cheering as the chaser kept playing. Robin was sure she had a broken rib or two, because that was the most normal thing for Quidditch.
Dan Heng grimaced but begrudgingly handed five galleons to a grinning Asta.
The score was 140–110 with Gryffindor in the lead. Slytherin wasn’t far behind as they started playing a lot more aggressive. Along the while, the snitch still hasn't made an appearance. Not that Robin cared much as she was focused on Firefly– who was a chaser.
Everytime Firefly scored, she seemed to make it a mission to spot Robin in the crowd. Once she did, she would smile in a way that made Robin want to melt into the ground.
The match went on for a few more minutes with the score of 180–170 with Gryffindor in a tight lead. The seekers were now racing against each other to grab the snitch. Robin didn't really care much if Slytherin or Gryffindor win but it would be better if the former does (no offence to the lions) because it would make Firefly happy.
And the best thing in the world of magic was when Firefly is happy.
And true to her words, the finishing horn blared through the pitch as the Slytherin seeker caught the snitch, the house of snakes winning with a score of 320–180. Slytherin and Ravenclaws’ cheers were deafening.
“ Robin! ” She whipped her head when March tapped her shoulder and Robin was met with Firefly smiling, on her broom hovering above the stand. The Slytherin dropped from it, landing right in front of the Halovian. Robin’s wide eyes of surprise met with Firefly’s eyes of mirth and joy.
“ I won, ” Firefly said, slightly out of breath.
“ You did. I saw. ” Robin replied, heart banging against her ribs.
Firefly's hand was on her shoulder as the girl pulled her closer. Robin didn't fight it.
Soft lips pressed against her own— just like the first time– but it lasted a little longer for their eyes to linger on each other. The kiss still lasted for a heart beat and again, Firefly did not say a thing– only smiling in triumph. As usual, Robin’s body felt so warm and her heart threatened to explode. The noises around them hadn’t ceased but Robin was aware of the burning gazes of her friends.
Firefly turned away as her name was called, presumably for Slytherin to celebrate their victory.
She forced herself to look away, noticing how Dan Heng and Asta stared at her in mild shock while Arlan had his mouth slightly open. March looked this close to hounding Robin for information.
The Halovian escaped before that could happen.
Robin shouldn't be shocked by now, but it also happened when they were in the hallway. They're fourth-year now and their dynamic hasn't changed. Still the same as always, still the best friends they had always known each other as. Nothing had changed between.
( Except everything had changed since that fateful day. )
They're both fourth-year and Robin constantly gets anxious– because their O.W.L.s is next year and she's very worried but the worries didn't compared to when she brushed the ‘ Prefect’ pin on her robe as she quickly descend the stairs, footsteps thundering like an omen.
The crowd of students startled at her appearance, parting seamlessly as they whispered and muttered. So many trains of thoughts rang the alarms in her head as Robin winced at the scene. She swallowed the lump in her throat and forced a neutral yet stern outlook.
“ What is happening here? ” She demanded, wand out in her hand as she scrutinised them. The four people caught up in the scene backed away from each other, two on each side. Robin’s expression fell as she saw Firefly– breathing heavily and bleeding with a split bottom lip.
“ This guy wouldn't stop bothering her! ” Luka– one of the few people Robin would think would not get into a fight —yelled as he uncharacteristically glared at the offending party. It was definitely a whiplash to see the usually upbeat Gryffindor so angry.
“ Oh, quiet with your stupidity. I was having a civil conversation with her when you interrupted us. ” The other– a Ravenclaw –sneered. Robin narrowed her eyes on him, keeping note of his hand position. He was slightly shorter than Luka, but held his chin and nose so high with his chest puffed as if it was filled with all his ego. His left cheek was slightly red, indicating there had been a physical outbreak.
Robin shook her head, she has to be fair with this.
“ I interrupted because you were insulting her! ” Luka shot back, his prosthetic arm angled in an aggressive manner.
“ What lies, you’re telling. ” He scoffed, rolling his eyes. He seemed to catch Robin’s Prefect pin before his eyes moved to the side– sneering when he saw the colour.
Robin bristled slightly. Looking down based on the house– I see.
“ You’re the one who is lying! Insulting Firefly wasn’t enough but you also couldn’t keep your hands to yourself! You’re worse than a dog. ” Luka responded in disgust and Robin barely heard the sharp intake of breaths around her. Firefly’s eyes met her at a steady pace but her hands shook. Whether from anger or not, Robin wasn't sure.
The Ravenclaw’s face turned red with anger, his eyes flashing with the same burning emotion.
“ Shut up, you filthy mudblood — ” He cut off with a quickly incantation of Stupefy, Luka taking the attack with pained gasp as a flash of red hits him in the chest, sending him crashing against the wall. His other friend attacked with a loud Depulso—
“ Petrificus Totalus. ” Robin intercepted, hissing under her breath, the spell completely petrifying the other Ravenclaw’s limb. Robin cursed internally as the situation escalated. With three sharp Expelliarmus , the spell knocked out each of their wands from their hands, gaining bewildered looks.
Robin withheld a sigh, glaring at them with daggers in her eyes. “ 30 points from Ravenclaw for attacking and assaulting a student, the usage of that slur, and 20 points from Gryffindor for instigating the attack. ” She nodded sharply at them, daring any of them to refute her claims.
Firefly helped Luka back on his face, the Gryffindor at least looking a bit guilty for throwing the first punch. Unlike the two Ravenclaws, Robin wouldn't even bother to remember their names. At his sneer towards her words, Robin stifled a growl in her throat.
“ A month's worth of detention with Professor Gallagher. ” She quipped afterward, raising her chin in a show of superiority as the two Ravenclaws gaped at her.
“ Move along now. Get back to your class! ” Robin commanded, raising her voice in lieu of authority. The two Ravenclaws scrambled, face red with anger and embarrassment as the crowds glared at them. Especially other Ravenclaws students. Soon, the crowd dispersed– leaving the Prefect with Luka and Firefly.
“ ‘Sorry about that. He just got on my nerves, that asshat. ” Luka apologised, smiling awkwardly as he held his prosthetic arm. Robin’s eyes softened at the American student.
“ No, for what it's worth– I’m glad you were with Firefly. ” Robin pretended to look around as a smile crept to her face. “ Go on and meet Professor Welt. Explain the situation to him and he’ll help you– Oh, don't forget to go to the hospital wing. ” Robin advised, patting Luka on his shoulder as the fellow American sighed in relief and bid his goodbye.
Robin then turned to Firefly, concern etched on every corner of her features.
“ Are you alright? Did the spell hit you somewhere? Are you in pain? ” The questions came flooding instantly and Firefly couldn’t help the laugh leaving her throat. The Halovian frowned, her fingers reaching to grace the wound on Firefly’s split lip.
Firefly hissed in pain, but did not jerk or flinch. She actually looked content at the sensation of Robin’s finger gracing her lips.
Not that Robin knows that, of course.
“ I’m fine, Robin. A quick Episky would fix it. ” Firefly responded and Robin sighed at her words. Robin’s eyes then hardened– in a way Firefly knew whenever the Hufflepuff took on her responsibility seriously.
“ What did he do to you? Did he touch you? ” Robin questioned, tone soft but burning with something. Firefly huffed, “ It’s nothing. I threw the first hit, you don't have to worry. ” Robin blinked at the information, mind recalling the bright red mark on one of the Ravenclaw’s faces. She had thought Luka did it.
“ Then— Then he hit you ? ”
Firefly shrugged, “ Collateral damage. ” Robin pinched the bridge of her nose with indignant frustration.
“ Let’s— Let's just get you to the hospital wing, ” Robin breathed out, scrunching her nose.
“ I’m fine, Robin. ” At those words, Robin paused to examine Firefly one more time. The Slytherin certainly looked fine, and it didn't seem like she was faking anything either. Robin inhaled.
“ …Okay. Just be careful. Episkey. ” She mouthed, the wandless magic coming fruitful as the cut on Firefly’s lip healed. The ash-blonde raised an eyebrow at the show of wandless magic. It made Robin’s feel warm. Just like how Firefly loved to show off to Robin during Quidditch, charms were more of a thing for Robin to brag about.
“ You worry too much. ” Firefly said with a smile, amusement clear in her voice. She stepped closer and Robin could hear the blood pumping in her ears.
As always, the kiss is only a second longer, nothing new— but Firefly’s lips were still as soft and warm. She could mildly taste the leftover blood but Robin found herself not minding it. Which was a bit of a concerning thought. It made every part of Robin tingled– as always. Robin was sure she was close to having a heart attack.
Firefly took a step back, face marred with that familiar grin of triumph and joy. She studied Robin for a moment.
“ Also, they did a good job making you a prefect. That was hot. ”
With that, she spun on her heels and walked away— a tad faster than she usually would. Robin was pretty sure she was having a heart attack.
She was going to die. This was bad.
Somewhat, she’s right.
Even with that, nothing really changed between them. They continued on with school, even as Firefly pulled her into a secluded corner of the library and kissed her– or when she jumped off her broom and Robin struggled to catch her before Firefly pulled her into another kiss.
Nothing was different. Six years went by just like that and now they're in their seventh year– and you guessed it, still kissing. Robin didn't know what label to put on their relationship but her and Firefly were certainly not dating. Sure, they kissed– a lot. But best friends kissed each other, right ?
Robin barely held back a faux-annoyed smile as she walked alongside Asta and Ruan Mei– who she was third wheeling for considering the two of them had gotten together during their fifth-year. She was happy for them, they certainly matched each others’ freak.
As usual, they walked back to the hall and over to their usual table– where some of their friends were already waiting. Unsurprisingly, Robin didn't see Firefly, considering the latter was busy with Quidditch season. The closer they got to the table, the louder it was.
“ The sorting is rigged?! ” March shouted as they sat down.
“ Wait, so you’re saying I could have been in Slytherin? ” Stelle asked with a hint of realisation. March rolled her eyes while Silver Wolf looked like her entire bloodline had been kidnapped.
“ You’re less of a Slytherin than Bronya is. ” Dan Heng said flatly. Stelle opened her mouth but Dan Heng swiftly cut off.
“ You’re too lazy to do anything for Hufflepuff and you had never ever been a Ravenclaw material so you can let go of that idea right now. ” March jabbed Stelle’s side as the Gryffindor gaped.
“ Wow, way to point out the truth. ” Asta winced with a smile as Ruan Mei sat down next to her. Stelle opened her mouth to protest but Silver Wolf cut off.
“ Just accept your defeat, Stellaron. ”
“ Frauds, all of you. You’re no longer my friends. ” Most of them burst into laughter. Robin smiled as she noticed the way Asta automatically took in Ruan Mei’s hand, even if the other Ravenclaw was focused on other things.
March and Silver Wolf— another two surprising couple, stuck close to each other as March absentmindedly fed Silver Wolf her banana bread.
Robin was going to punch herself for the question that she was going to blurt out.
“ What's it like to date? ” She asked innocently and it felt like the world had been turned upside down as everyone froze.
All of her friends stopped their actions to stare at her with wide eyes and gaping mouths.
“ I’m sorry ? ” Asta managed. Even Ruan Mei seemed mildly surprised and confused. Robin was getting a bit scared.
“ What? ” She frowned. Even with her question, everyone looked like someone had shot them through a Russian Roulette game. The bewilderment and baffled look they wore made Robin feel like she was missing something.
“ What in Merlin’s saggy balls do you mean what it’s like to dat e?? ” Silver Wolf reiterated, looking offended– as if someone had cursed her entire bloodline.
It’s Arlan who broke it all, “ Robin, aren't you dating Firefly ? ”
Something in Robin went cold as she swallowed. “ No? We’re— We’re best friends. ” Merlin, that left such a bitter taste in her mouth. Her heart stuttered at the thought but— Robin and Firefly were just best friends.
“ Best friends ? ” Dan Heng exclaimed, incredulous and in disbelief. Robin didn't trust herself to completely nod.
“ But you guys kiss – all the time. ” Yanqing pointed out, expression pinched as if he was in pain.
“ Well… yes. ” Robin admitted, gaining encouraging looks from her friends. It’s gone the next time, “ Best friends kiss each other all the time, right? ”
Everyone pulled a face, baffled and offended by such insinuation. Robin had to admit it was kind of funny— if she wasn't so overwhelmed. Firefly kisses her , yeah— and Robin never denied that. It’s not like they were hiding it. So– what was Robin missing?
“ Robin, best friends don't kiss each other like that. Usually it's like– platonically, on the cheeks. Not– ” Asta groaned, laughing in disbelief. She buried her head in her hands as the entire table suffered. Robin felt like she had committed mass murder.
“ You two kiss each other on the lips. ” Ruan Mei continued, stoic and blank like usual but the mirth in her eyes could be seen.
“ We… do, ” Robin nodded hesitantly, watching their reactions carefully.
“ Oh Morgana’s tits, Robin there's no way you're this oblivious about relationships! ” March exclaimed loudly and Robin hissed at the notion of the entire hall hearing it. She was missing something– from all of this but she didn't want the entire castle to know.
Silver Wolf snapped her fingers, startling the Halovian and gaining her attention. The former kept a sharp eye contact with her as Silver Wolf pulled March into a kiss, where the latter jolted but melted into.
As it usually was , it didn't even take a second. Robin’s world was being flipped upside down and she had an idea it was entirely her doing.
Dan Heng grimaced in slight disgust at the Public Display of Affections. “ Robin, that's why you kiss someone on the lips. It’s because you’re in a relationship, like a romantic one. ”
Robin choked on her breath.
“ Yeah. People kiss on the lips because they’re in love, I think everyone knows that. ” Yanqing chimed in, gesturing at the myriads of couples around them.
“ Huh? I-In love ? ” Robin managed, heart almost stuttering to a dangerous halt. That’s— Okay, it made sense for Silver Wolf and March to kiss, they were girlfriends — but Robin and Firefly also kissed – many times – but they weren't dating, they weren't girlfriends — even though Robin love that thought very much and Robin may or may not be in love with Firefly but that was—
Robin swallowed. That was definitely a topic she has to touch on now.
“ We thought you and Firefly were dating. ” Ruan Mei tilted her head and Asta choked next to her.
“ Ruan, don’t kill her like that! ”
“ Everyone knows that they've been in love with each other since the third-year. ” Stelle wrinkled her nose.
“ Everyone ? ” Robin echoed. She was going to Bombarda Maxima herself after this, collateral damage be damned.
All of her friends winced.
“ Miscommunication, worst troupe ever. ” Arlan whispered and Yanqing snickered.
Her hand shook as blood raged in her ears. She reaches for her wand, desperately thinking of happy memories, happy memories, happy memories — and conjures a glimmering dove of white and blue with a whisper of Expecto Patronum.
She kissed the willowy head of the dove, sending a heartfelt message before the Patronus flew away. Robin exhaled as she rubbed her hand, feeling the cold seeping into her skin. She was undeniably terrified and nervous right now.
The… conversation she had with her friends at the hall had led to many, many trains of thoughts blaring in her head. And all those trains of thoughts just crashed into each with a massive explosion.
Asta had accompanied her to the stand, patting her on the shoulder like a mother sending her child to school. The Ravenclaw was close to tears and Robin almost hexed her.
“ I’m gonna mess this up. ” She whispered anxiously, pacing along the seats. Asta deadpanned, “ No, you're not. Just talk to her. ”
“ How am I supposed to talk to her about this? Just say ‘Hey, I didn't actually know we’re dating, can you explain how ?’ and what? ” Robin groaned.
“ And pray. ” Asta added nonchalantly. She then stood up abruptly, patting Robin’s shoulder. From a distance, Robin could see Firefly arriving. Her throat felt like the desert now.
“ Break a leg! ” Asta yelled.
“ No one says that anymore! ” Robin whirled to shout indignantly. Her hands were sweaty as Firefly drew closer, a content smile on her face. It made little sparks burst inside Robin and she could feel her heart trying to explode.
“ Hey, ” Firefly greeted, the smile on her face growing as she took Robin’s hand into hers– like it's second nature for her, a natural action for them to be together. It would have been sweet— if Robin didn't feel like she was going to die from how red her face was.
She cleared her throat, mustering a shaky smile as she squeezed Firefly’s hand. Instantly, the latter noticed how shifty Robin was– her expression morphing to a more concerned one.
“ You’re not practising with others? ” Robin questioned, swallowing as she couldn't quite meet Firefly's eyes. The latter hummed, looking in the distance of the Quidditch pitch.
“ Not really. I can practise other times. Not when I got your Patronus, as pretty as ever. ” Firefly answered naturally and Robin’s heart jumped at her words. The courage she gathered previously had run away because god, Firefly was next to her and how is she supposed to do this ?! This was so much, much worse than she thought.
Then, Robin shifted closer to the other girl involuntarily as someone flew by, the cold wind bristling against her skin made her shiver. Firefly pressed against her, the heat bursting through like a wayward wave. It was like a giant tsunami, towering over her like an impending doom.
“ I— I need to talk to you about something. ” Robin internally smashed her head against an imaginary wall at the way her voice had cracked. Firefly straightened at her tone, blinking in surprise.
The apprehensive silence between them certainly didn't help as Robin tried to form the right sentence. Firefly patiently waited, looking at her with those soft sunset eyes and Robin felt so dumbfounded because she was missing something.
“ You kiss me, ” Robin started and Firefly blinked, “ Like– All the time. ”
The latter slowly nodded at her statement. “ Yes? I– Do you want me to stop? If it makes you uncomfortable– ”
Robin’s brain stuttered, “ N-No! That’s not what I meant. I– I like it when you kiss me, but you kiss me– like on the lips , I don't mind it– I actually like it very much but our friends brought up something and I’ve been thinking it because you know– ” Robin stopped to take a breath, “ It’s– I thought you kiss me because we’re friendly and we’re best friends and I—
“ Because we’re best friends? ” Firefly repeated, tone slightly baffled and amused. Robin bit her lower lip, glaring at the girl. Firefly smiled apologetically, motioning for her to continue.
“ So, I had a talk with our friends and they said that, um, kissing on the lips is for l-lovers and best friends don’t do that. And— we might be dating ? And apparently, I had no idea ? ” Robin was starting to ramble now, feeling a lot more conscious under Firefly’s gaze as her heart threatened to explode. It all felt very overwhelming as Robin tried to wrap her head around the situation.
“ Everyone thinks we’re dating and I don't– know if that's true for you — I mean, are we dating and I just– I just never realised? Are we dating, Firefly? Are we? ” Robin’s voice was taking on a more desperate tone as she inquired, feeling the cold creep into her as she feared the way Firefly’s contemplative eyes stared at her.
She felt bare under the girl’s gaze and Robin had the small thought that this was a terrible idea and she may or may not have destroyed her relationship with Firefly.
Then Firefly’s eyes softened as she blew a laugh, tugging Robin closer as she cradled Robin’s face in her hand— leaning forward. Robin’s breath hitched as the former kissed the corner of her lips, the lingering warmth burning her.
Firefly leaned back, a mischievous and amused light shimmering in her eyes. “ I hope that proves it. ”
Robin’s heart hammered in her chest, she could hear her blood in her ears as she stared wide eyes at— her girlfriend ? A small giggle bubbled out of her mouth as she stumbled on her footing, Firefly meeting to steady her.
“ You’re my girlfriend, ” She breathed out, like it's a mantra that had salvaged a deep part of her– like the prophecy she had sought out. Firefly smiled warmly, contrasting with the cold wind around.
“ Yeah. I’m yours and you’re mine, ” The other whispered and Robin stifled a squeal as Firefly pulled her closer once more, their lips meeting in a chaste kiss, Robin latching onto the girl as she anchored herself from the sheer joy filling her already overloaded heart. Robin was sure she was seeing stars. Firefly gently guided her as they kissed– the action a lot more meaningful and sweet now that Robin knew.
She felt like an idiot. But that's okay— because Firefly was her girlfriend. And she was Firefly’s girlfriend.
They pulled away once the need for air spiked up, Firefly still holding close as she brushed Robin’s jawline.
“ I’m sorry for the confusion. Is that enough evidence? ” Firefly’s eyes were lit up with mirth. Robin inhaled, warmth filling her body.
“ More than enough. ”