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It was the very beginning of summer vacation at Hogwarts. The air was warm, rich with the scent of grass and wildflowers, and filled with the promise of freedom.
I still had one week before returning to London, to the familiar chatter of my family and the gentle hum of the Muggle world. But for now, Hogwarts felt suspended in time, as if the castle itself were holding its breath. And yet, beneath the calm, something stirred in me. A quiet pull, persistent and aching.
Leaving without seeing Sebastian? Unthinkable.
Not like this. Not with so much left unsaid, and so much still fragile between us. There were words waiting...heavy with silence, delicate as threads. We needed to speak them aloud before they unraveled with the fading summer light.
Even if it hurt. Even if it changed everything.
He needed me. I felt it as surely as I felt the air in my lungs. And the truth, whispered low in the back of my mind, was that I needed him just as much. Maybe more than I cared to admit.
So I followed the pull, not just for him...but for me too. For us.
My feet carried me down toward the Dark Lake, guided more by instinct than intention. The air grew quieter the farther I walked.
Down by the Dark Lake, the light had taken on a dreamlike quality. The setting sun bled soft hues of rose-gold and lavender into the sky, and wisps of pink-tinged cloud drifted lazily above the horizon. The lake caught it all, reflecting the colors in gentle ripples that shimmered like painted silk.
I spotted Sebastian sitting alone on a slope that overlooked the still water. His posture was rigid, arms resting on his knees, his gaze distant, fixed somewhere far beyond the water’s surface. The pink light kissed the edge of his profile, casting his face in a warm and gentle glow. His skin was brushed by the last blush of day, and where the sunlight touched his hair, it shimmered like burnished copper. He looked beautiful in that light. Sad, yes, but beautiful.
As I approached, the lake’s surface rippled softly despite the still air, glowing faintly with a pale pink hue as if the water itself was alive with magic and reflecting the blush of the sky above. Tiny will-o’-the-wisps drifted just above the shore, their soft amber light pulsing gently, mirroring the fragile hope blooming between us.
The grass crunched lightly beneath my shoes. Sebastian heard me and turned, the tension in his shoulders loosening slightly when his eyes met mine. The look he gave me shifted, surprise melting into a quiet, relieved pleasure, like the sudden appearance of sunlight after a long stretch of rain.
I reached out a hand to him
“Let’s get cozy,” I said, a small smile tugging at my lips.
He took my hand and rose to meet eye to eye “Lead the way,” he answered softly.
“How are you?” I asked.
Sebastian sighed deeply, his expression growing solemn, shadowed by the weight of the guilt he carried. “I’ve had a lot on my mind,” he said, his voice quiet. The memory of his uncle’s death flickered behind his eyes, a dark, stubborn shadow that refused to fade.
“I know,” I said gently, settling against the trunk of an old tree. I patted my lap with a small smile.
“Come. Put your head here. I used to do that for my brother when he was troubled.”
He gave me a teasing smile. “Are you saying you see me as your brother?”
I laughed, shaking my head. “No! not at all.”
He hesitated then settled his head on my lap, closing his eyes and letting out a contented sigh.
“Mm, this is nice,” he murmured. “Your lap is the perfect pillow.”
I placed my hand on his chest and began tracing small, soothing circles. My fingers felt the steady beat of his heart beneath his robes. Around us, the leaves rustled with soft murmurs.
"Comfortable?"
Sebastian relaxed further, nodding. “Very. Keep going...it feels wonderful.”
I combed my fingers through his hair slowly, savoring its softness.
Somewhere in the distance, birds sang , their notes clear, like a lullaby echoing through the trees.
After a while, he whispered, “I don’t know if I deserve this.” His voice trembled slightly “Not after everything I’ve done.”
I paused, my hand still on his chest, waiting.
He brought a forearm up to cover his eyes, as if blocking out the memory or hiding from it.
He swallowed hard. “The night I… when I killed my uncle… it wasn’t supposed to happen like that.”
His voice was low and raw. “I never meant to hurt him. I was trying to save Anne. But I used dark magic, and I lost control. I’ve replayed that moment over and over,” he whispered. “Wishing I’d just—stopped. Said something, anything, before it was too late.”
His fingers clenched lightly against my knee, betraying the turmoil beneath his calm exterior.
“I don’t know how to forgive myself,” he murmured. “Or face what I’ve become.”
I reached up and gently took his forearm, guiding it away from his face. He didn’t resist.
He shifted slightly, lifting his head just enough to meet my eyes, a flicker of vulnerability breaking through. “Tell me… how come you haven’t rejected me for this? For what I did?”
I smiled gently, brushing a stray lock of hair from his forehead. “Because you’re more than your mistakes, Sebastian. Everyone carries darkness, what matters is what we do after. I see you, the real you. The boy who’s brave enough to carry this burden and still reach out for light.”
He settled back against me, a shaky breath escaping him. “Thank you,” he whispered. “It’s hard to believe things can get lighter… but right now, this feels like a small miracle.”
“Sometimes I wonder if the people I hurt even want to hear from me again. If I even deserve their forgiveness.”
I tightened my fingers gently around his hand. “Forgiveness isn’t about deserving it, Sebastian. It’s about healing. You don’t have to carry this alone anymore.”
He let out a long breath, closing his eyes again. “I want to believe that. I want to be better. For you, for Ominis, for myself.”
He shifted slightly, lifting his head just enough to meet my gaze. For a heartbeat, something broke through the darkness, a flicker of vulnerability.
“I’ll try to talk to Ominis,” I said softly, my voice steady despite the tightness in my chest. “See if there’s a way to mend things before sixth year. I can’t promise it’ll work, but… I can promise I’ll try.”
He looked down at our intertwined hands.
“I don’t think he’ll want to speak to me. I broke something between us. And maybe he won’t want to fix it. Maybe I don’t deserve it. And honestly… I don’t blame him. I wouldn’t either.”
“You don’t know that yet,” I said gently. “But you’ll never be able to make it right if you keep standing in the ruins without trying to rebuild.”
“I’ve been… awful,” he admitted, the words thick in his throat. “Not just distant. I pushed him away—hard. And I knew what I was doing when I did it. I just... couldn’t stop. The decisions I was making...each one worse than the last. I didn’t want to hear reason, and Ominis was always reason. »
He finally looked up at me, eyes brimming with unshed emotion. “But if he could ever… even just talk to me again, I’d do anything to make it right. I’d give anything to not be the person I was in those moments.”
“Then I’ll try,” I said. “For both of you.”
Sebastian gave a slow nod, his throat moving as he swallowed hard. “Thank you. Really. I don’t know what I’d do without you.”
Sebastian fell quiet for a long time. Then, barely louder than the rustling leaves, he whispered,“I should’ve been there. When you lost Professor Fig… I should’ve stood by your side.”
I blinked, surprised by the sudden shift. That ache, still sharp, still raw, surged in my chest.
“I missed him,” I said softly. “More than I let on.
He looked at me, regret etched into his face.
“I know how close you were to him,” he said. “How much he meant to you. And I...I wasn’t there when it mattered most. I was drowning in my own guilt and anger, but that’s no excuse. You fought for all of us, and I didn’t even notice you were hurting too.”
His words hit something raw and buried. I blinked again, but the tears welled up anyway, blurring the edges of the world.
Sebastian reached up, wordlessly, and brushed the tears from beneath my eyes with the pad of his thumb. His touch was tender, no rush, no pressure, just quiet understanding.
Our gazes met, and something in his expression softened even more.
I gave him a small, tearful smile. “Thank you.”
He returned it, just as softly. “Always.”
“He… he was more than a teacher,” I whispered, my voice barely steady. “He believed in me when no one else did. He saw me. Not just the magic I could do, but me. Every time I stumbled, every time I doubted myself, he reminded me I was capable of more. Losing him…” My voice cracked. “It felt like losing the last thread holding everything together.” I traced the rim of his cloak. “I don’t know how to say goodbye to someone who was more family than just a teacher.»
“I’m so sorry,” he said quietly. “I should’ve seen that. You carried that grief alone. You didn’t have to face that pain by yourself.”
“We both lost people we loved, Sebastian. We were both drowning. And maybe we couldn’t save each other back then.”
“But we can now,” he said softly. “I don’t want to face anything without you anymore.”
I nodded, emotion thick in my throat. “Then we don’t. From now on, we face it all together.”
He gave a small, tremulous smile and held out his pinky. “Pinky swear?”
I laughed wetly and hooked mine with his. “Pinky swear.”
“From now on, I want to be the one who celebrates your victories, no matter how big or small. The one who lifts you up when everything feels like it’s crashing down. And the one who stays by your side when the nights get too dark to face alone.”
His voice grew softer, full of quiet determination. “Because you don’t have to carry any of this alone anymore, not your pain, not your fears, not your hopes.”
I felt a rush of emotion, nodding slowly. “And I promise I’ll be there for you, too. Every step of the way.”
“I don’t want to lose you too,” he said softly.
“You won’t,” I promised. “Not now. Not ever.”
A small, genuine smile appeared on his face, catching the last warmth of the sun.
“Thank you,” he murmured again. “For everything.”
I gave his hand a gentle squeeze. “Always.”
The evening breeze rustled through the trees as we settled back on the grass, our shoulders just barely touching. The pink sky deepened into twilight, and the first stars began to appear.
Sebastian’s voice dropped to a whisper. “Sometimes I’m scared. Not just of what I’ve done… but of who I might become. What if the darkness inside never really fades?”
I stayed close, turning to meet his gaze with steady warmth. “We all carry shadows, Sebastian. What matters is what we do with them. You’re more than your mistakes.”
He swallowed, fragile hope flickering in his eyes. “How can you be so sure?”
I traced a finger along his jaw, smiling softly. “Because I see the person you are now, someone brave enough to face the past and still reach for something better. That’s strength, not weakness.”
He exhaled slowly, the tension in his shoulders loosening just a bit. “I want to believe that. But sometimes, the darkness feels endless.”
I tucked a stray lock of hair behind his ear, offering a gentle smile. “Then we’ll face it together. One day at a time. And if the night ever feels too long, I’ll be here, holding you through it.”
A quiet smile curved his lips. “With you… maybe I can believe that after all.”
“We’ll believe it, together.”
I ran my fingers slowly through his hair, tracing soft, lazy circles on his scalp, feeling the tension melt beneath my touch. His chest rose and fell gently under my hand, each breath easing a little more.
I pressed my lips against his temple, whispering, “You don’t have to carry this alone, Sebastian. Not now, not ever.”
His fingers curled around mine, gripping tightly as if to hold onto that promise physically. His body relaxed against me, the tight coil of anxiety slowly unwinding.Gradually, his hands softened in mine, his body still close but no longer tense.
“Thank you,” he breathed, barely audible
I leaned in, resting my forehead against his. “Always.”
His eyes fluttered closed, and I could feel him melting into the earth, the tension unraveling like thread.
“Your hands feel like magic,” he murmured. “I could fall asleep like this.”
“You can, if you want.”
A faint smile touched his lips. “Maybe I will. Just for a little while.”
About twenty minutes later, he stirred with a soft groan, eyelids fluttering open.
“What time is it?” he asked, voice rough from sleep.
“You slept for twenty minutes.”
“Only? Felt like hours.” He glanced up at me. “Did I drool on you or something?”
I laughed softly. “No, but you looked… peaceful. And kind of beautiful.”
He flushed, rubbing the back of his neck. “Beautiful, huh? Probably looked ridiculous, napping on your lap like a kid.”
“I don’t see you that way, Sebastian.”
His eyes met mine, serious and warm. He shifted slightly, lifting a hand to my cheek.
“Thank you.”
“Glad to be of service.”
“You’re not just ‘of service,’” he said with a voice filled with a tenderness that made my heart ache. “You’re… a light, maybe the only one I’ve had this year. Just being near you makes the darkness inside me feel less suffocating, like I can breathe again.”
His eyes searched mine, vulnerable and honest, as if afraid this moment might slip away. “You’ve been my safe plac, the one who stays when everything else runs. My comfort, my strength. Honestly, there’s no one I’d rather explore a dark, cursed cave with,” he smiled, a small, genuine curve of his lips.
He squeezed my hand, a fragile plea hidden in that simple gesture. “But I want you to know, what you’ve given me means more than I can say.”
I smiled softly, my fingers tightening around his hand. “Sebastian, you don’t have to deserve me. You don’t need to earn my presence or my trust. What matters is that you’re here, that you’re trying even when it’s hard. And for what it’s worth, I choose you, every day.”
I paused, then added softly, “But I need something from you.”
He looked into my eyes, steady and serious.
“Promise me you won’t ever use dark magic again. Not ever, No matter how hopeless things feel. No matter how strong the temptation.”
“I promise, I won’t use it. Ever again.”
The vow settled between us like something sacred, invisible but unshakable.
“I mean it,” he continued, voice steadier now. “No matter what happens. I’ve lost too much already… I won’t lose you too. I won’t lose myself again.”
For a moment, I just looked at him not as the boy who’d wielded forbidden spells with shaking hands, not as the friend who had strayed too close to the edge but as someone fighting his way back from the dark, inch by inch.
He hesitated, as though the words were fragile in his mouth, too delicate to release. “Before everything went to hell… you and Anne, you connected. I could see it. She trusted you.”
There was a flicker of something in his eyes, longing, pain, hope all tangled together. He looked down briefly, gathering himself.
“If she ever writes to you… or finds a way to reach out, will you tell me? Even if she doesn’t want to speak to me, just knowing she’s out there, still thinking about any of this… it would mean everything.”
“I don’t even know where she is—if she’s safe, if she’s okay. I tell myself she’s better off, free from all of this… but Merlin, I miss her.”
He finally looked back up at me, something raw shining in his gaze. “If she ever contacts you...please, promise me I won’t be the last to know.”
I nodded solemnly. “I promise. If Anne contacts me, you’ll be the first to know.”
A small, relieved smile broke through the weight on his face. “Thank you. That… that means more than I can say.”
He stared at me for a long, charged moment, his eyes searching, vulnerable, like he was trying to memorize every detail of my face. The world seemed to hold its breath around us.
Slowly, almost reverently, he leaned forward. His fingers brushed my cheek with a delicate tenderness, as if I were something fragile and precious. The warmth of his touch sent a shiver down my spine.
“I really want to kiss you right now,” he whispered, his voice trembling with honesty and longing. “May I?”
My breath caught, heart pounding like a drum in my chest. For a moment, time seemed to stretch, the space between us electric and full of promise.
My breath caught in my throat. I nodded, barely able to speak. “Yes.”
He didn’t rush. He leaned in slowly, as if he wanted to remember every second leading up to the moment. His hands found my face—warm, a little shaky, cradling me like I was something fragile, something he didn’t quite believe was his to touch.
And then his lips met mine.
The world stilled. There was no castle, no lake, no time. Just the softness of his mouth, the way his breath hitched as he kissed me like it was both a question and an answer. His lips were warm, unsure at first, almost like he was afraid he might do it wrong, but the longer the kiss lasted, the more he sank into it, and into me.
He deepened the kiss gently, his fingers threading through my hair, pulling me closer like he needed to be sure I was real. My hands clutched at the front of his robes, grounding myself in the heat of him, the dizzy rush of closeness. I could feel this kiss was undoing something painful inside him.
He sighed against my mouth, and the sound, quiet, desperate, tender, sent a shiver down my spine.
There was no urgency, no rush to devour. Just warmth, breath, and the overwhelming sense that we had been holding this in for far too long. Every brush of his lips said I’ve waited, I’ve hoped, I’m here.
When we finally pulled apart, we were breathless. His forehead rested lightly against mine, eyes fluttering closed for a moment like he didn’t want to break the spell.
“I’ve wanted to do that for ages,” he murmured, voice rough with emotion. “I didn’t know it would feel like… this.”
“Me too,” I whispered, brushing my thumb over his cheek. “But nothing could’ve prepared me for how right it feels.”
“We’ve been dancing around this forever,” I said, smiling.
He gave a crooked grin. “I thought I was being obvious.”
“To who?” I laughed. “Your owl?”
He chuckled, shaking his head. “Honestly… Since the beginning, it’s always been you. I just didn’t know how to say it until now . But it was worth the wait.”
“It was,” I agreed, my cheeks warm.
I brushed my thumb softly over my lips, still feeling the echo of his kiss.
His eyes searched mine. “Wait… was that your first kiss?”
“It was,” I admitted, voice soft.
He blinked, surprised. “Really?”
I smiled, a little shy. “There were a few awkward almost-kisses before. But nothing like this. Nothing that mattered.”
A silence settled, comfortable, full of warmth and quiet understanding.
“Have you ever… gone further?” I asked gently.
He shook his head. “No. I’ve kissed before, but that’s it. Fifteen just… doesn’t feel like the time for more. Not yet.”
His voice lowered again, playful now. “But now that I’ve kissed you, I want more. Not just physically. I want you. Your time, your thoughts, your presence. I think I’m addicted to how you make me feel.”
I laughed quietly. “You’ll get more. Within the extent of decorum, of course and when it feel right for the both of us.»
“Of course,” he said with a wink. “But just so you know… I plan on memorizing every detail of your lips.”
I smiled and cupped his face gently, thumb brushing his cheek. “Please do.”
Feeling warmth spread through me as I cupped his face gently, my thumb tracing slow, tender circles on his cheek. His skin was soft beneath my touch, slightly flushed from the kiss.
For a moment, we simply held each other’s gaze, words unnecessary, the space between us charged with a quiet intimacy that felt both new and deeply familiar.
“Feeling better?” I asked softly, a gentle invitation to stay in this moment just a little longer.
He nodded slowly, eyes shimmering with a softness that made my chest ache with something like hope. “I am, He nodded, eyes soft and warm. “I am. You have this way of making everything feel… lighter.”
He smirked. “I’m imagining the chaos when everyone realizes we’re together. The shocked faces, the gossip flying around Hogwarts..."
I raised an eyebrow playfully. “Well, we might as well give them something juicy to whisper about.”
He laughed, warmth lighting up his eyes. “Yeah, let the rumors begin.”
The night air became cooler around us, and for a heartbeat, everything felt perfect—until suddenly, his gaze sharpened, a flicker of panic breaking through.
“Oh… the holidays are coming,” he said, voice a little panicked, like he’d just remembered the clock ticking down. “You’re really leaving soon.”
He looked at me, a bit desperate. «How am I supposed to survive the holidays without you?”
I smiled softly, feeling a warmth spread in my chest at his honest worry. “I’ll write you every single day. You won’t even have a chance to get lonely..Think of it as your personal lifeline with bonus sarcasm included.”
He laughed, eyes sparkling with relief. “Okay, okay. Maybe the holidays won’t be so bad after all. As long as I get my daily dose of you.”
He pulled me closer, his eyes locking with mine. “It’s going to be long without your touch, though.”
I smiled softly, resting my cheek against his. “Maybe I can ask my parents if you can visit...even just for a few days.”
“Seriously?” he asked, a hopeful spark lighting his eyes.
I nodded. “Seriously.”
A pause, then I tilted my head, curious. “Have you ever been to London?”
He shook his head. « No. I’ve always meant to, but… never had a reason to go.”
“Well,” I said, feeling excitement bubble in my chest, now you do,” I said, a grin tugging at my lips.I can’t wait to show you my favorite cafés, libraries, and little theaters. »
He smiled “That sounds... perfect.”
“I think you’ll love it,” I said, brushing my fingers against his collar. “It’s messy and loud and full of stories. Like you. I want you to see the world I come from. And I want you in it.”
He laughed, warm and bright. “Alright then. Take me to your world, love »
He continued. “You know, after all this talk about the holidays and London... there’s something else I’m glad about.”
I raised an eyebrow. “Oh? What’s that? »
“We both passed our O.W.L.s,” he said with a grin. “No small feat, considering everything going on.”
I chuckled, feeling a surge of pride.“Yeah, and with the way we aced those exams, I think that calls for a proper celebration.”
He nodded, eyes sparkling. “Exactly. And honestly, a trip to London would be the perfect way to celebrate, a reward for all our hard work and a chance to make some new memories before the next chaos hits.”
I smiled, leaning my head on his shoulder. “Agreed. But for now, let’s just enjoy this moment. We deserve it.”
I tilted my head, teasing, “And how exactly should I introduce you to my parents? ‘Friend’? ‘Fellow student’?”
He tapped my lower lip with a grin. “Tell them I’m your boyfriend. That should be clear enough.”
I arched an eyebrow, lips twitching. “Oh? Confident, are we?”
He chuckled, a soft, almost shy sound. “Well… I’m hopeful.”
I leaned in just a little, our noses nearly brushing. “Are you my boyfriend then?”
He held my gaze, eyes warm and unflinching. “I’d like to be. If you’ll have me.”
I let the silence stretch for a beat, pretending to consider it, even though my heart was already answering. “Hmm… I suppose I could do worse.”
He laughed, a low, relieved sound, and gently bumped his forehead against mine. “Ruthless.”
I smiled and slid my arms around his shoulders, pulling him closer. “Yes,” I whispered. “I’ll have you.”
His eyes searched mine, and for a moment, the playful spark gave way to something deeper, full of wonder, like he couldn’t quite believe this was real.
“Good,” he murmured. “Because I’m already yours.”
And in that quiet, I felt it, that shift. From teasing and sweetness to something steadier, more certain. Something that might just last.
“Come on. Let’s go write that letter,” I said. “And be warned! You’ll have to win over my owl, Athena. She’s extremely selective.”
He chuckled, forehead still resting against mine. “I’ll charm her eventually. If she’s anything like you, she won’t be able to resist my charm .”
I laughed, and we stood, fingers still intertwined. His touch warmed me like sunlight through winter glass.
We walked side by side toward the castle, the golden-pink glow of sunset wrapping us in quiet magic. The light shimmered faintly around us, like the world itself was holding its breath, just for this.
As we stepped into the cool hush of the castle, the protective enchantments whispered faintly in the air. Hogwarts felt calmer than usual, as if it, too, was listening.
Inside my dorm, the familiar scent of parchment, worn leather, and warm oak welcomed us. The fireplace crackled gently, its flames shifting from gold to violet, echoing the mood in the room, peaceful, full of quiet hope.
“I share this room with Imelda,” I explained, slipping off my cloak. “But she’s already gone home to Edinburgh for the holidays.”
Sebastian’s eyes swept around the dormitory, taking in the worn wooden desk cluttered with books and parchment, the neatly made bed with its patchwork quilt, and the posters of Quidditch teams pinned to the walls. The room smelled faintly of parchment and lavender, a quiet sanctuary from the chaos of the castle.
He smiled softly “It’s cozy. I like it.”
Before I could turn back, Sebastian tugged me toward him by the hips and swept me slightly off my feet, pressing a kiss to my lips, then to the curve of my neck, making me laugh.
“Miss Greenbriar,” he said in a mock-scandalized tone, lips brushing my skin. “One kiss and suddenly I’m in your bedroom? Truly outrageous.”
“Sebastian!” I laughed, playfully swatting at him. “Put me down!”
He grinned, kissing my cheek before stepping back with exaggerated innocence . “Alright, alright. Let’s write that letter.”
I pulled out a quill and a sheet of parchment, settling into the plush armchair by the fire. Sebastian flopped down beside me, still holding my hand like it was the only thing keeping him grounded. The flames cast a warm glow over us, and every now and then, the fire pulsed just a little brighter, like it, too, approved.
“Alright,” I said with a smile, dipping the quill into the ink. “Let’s tell my parents about you...gently.”
He chuckled, and I noticed how much lighter he seemed, like some invisible weight had finally lifted. That familiar spark danced in his eyes again, the old Sebastian charm slowly returning. “Gently? Since when have we ever done anything gently?”
I laughed and began to write, letting the words flow—sincere, steady, and warm. Sebastian watched in silence, occasionally reaching over to brush a loose strand of hair from my face. There was something different in his gaze now. Not just affection, but peace. Hope. Like the world wasn’t quite so heavy anymore.
“I’ve actually mentioned you before, you know,” I said casually, not looking up from the parchment.
“Oh?” he said, already smirking. “And what exactly have you told them, hmm? That I’m charming? A brilliant duelist? Or just a bad influence with excellent hair?”
I rolled my eyes, smiling. “Only the important parts. Like how you nearly got us eaten by that cursed bookcase in the Restricted Section.”
He leaned in a little, teasing. “So, I'm being introduced as a hero, then. Brave, clever, mildly chaotic.”
“Mostly chaotic,” I said, nudging him with my elbow. “But somehow still worth writing home about.”
“Worth writing home about, huh?” His smile lingered, more tender now. “I think I’ll hold on to that.”
Sebastian watched me in silence for a moment, occasionally reaching over to brush a loose strand of hair from my face. There was something different in his gaze now. Not just affection, but peace. Hope. Like the world wasn’t quite so heavy anymore.
When I finished, I folded the parchment with care. As I sealed it, the wax shimmered faintly with magic, a soft spark marking the charm that would keep the letter safe until opened.
“Now,” I said, standing up and stretching as the firelight danced along the curves of my sleeves, “you still need to meet Athena.”
I called softly, and a graceful owl swooped down from her high perch near the window, her feathers gleaming silver in the firelight. Athena blinked her bright, intelligent eyes at Sebastian, then tilted her head with a curious tilt. She gave a soft hoot, feathers ruffling slightly.
Sebastian crouched down, holding out his hand gently. Athena studied him for a moment before hopping onto his finger, her talons light and precise. She looked into his eyes as if seeing right through him—and silently approving what she found.
“She’s… something else,” Sebastian murmured, a genuine, wide smile spreading across his face.
Athena gave another soft hoot, clearly pleased.
“I think she likes you,” I teased, my heart warming at the sight.
He laughed, the sound rich and open. “I’ll do my best to win her over.”
After a moment, he looked thoughtful. “I’ll introduce you to my owl, Orion. He’s a bit grumpy but fiercely loyal—kind of like me, I guess.”
I smiled. “I’d like that. Maybe one day we can have a little owl reunion.”
He nodded, eyes sparkling. “Definitely. Maybe they’ll gossip about us when we’re not around »
I laughed softly, my eyes sparkling with mischief. “Then I hope they have some good stories to share—and don’t give away all our secrets.”
Leaning in slightly, I smiled warmly. “But mostly, I can’t wait to see how Athena and Orion will get along. Hopefully, they’ll be just as inseparable as we are.”
Sebastian smiled back, his voice steady. “I have no doubts about that.”
We spent the next few minutes watching Athena flutter between us. The distant chime of the dinner bell echoed through the castle corridors, gently pulling us back to reality.
I glanced at Sebastian; the flickering firelight danced in his eyes, and there was a spark of excitement there, like a silent promise of more moments just like this.
“Dinner in the Great Hall?” I asked, a smile tugging at my lips.
He nodded, standing and brushing off his robes with a casual grace. “Sounds perfect.”
From the warmth of my room, we made our way through the winding halls toward the Great Hall.
We walked together through the winding hallways, our hands still intertwined. Sebastian’s thumb traced gentle, absent-minded circles on the back of my hand, a small, tender gesture that felt new and electrifying, like the first warm breeze after a long winter.
Around us, the chatter and laughter of students who hadn’t yet left Hogwarts for the holidays filled the air, but it felt as if we were wrapped in our own quiet bubble. The noise was there, distant and muted, like a melody heard through thick glass, present but unable to reach us. Two figures moving slowly through the crowd, savoring the calm between heartbeats.
As we turned a corner, Mrs. Weasley spotted us. Her eyes softened instantly. She smiled, a quiet, knowing smile, as she took in our joined hands. Her quiet approval wrapped around us like a comforting cloak.
As we approached the Great Hall, the enchanted ceiling mirrored the twilight sky—soft shades of rose and lavender streaking across a deepening blue. Long tables were already lined with plates piled high with food, the air rich with the aromas of roast meats, fresh bread, and sweet desserts.
Behind us, whispers stirred in the gently enchanted air, barely louder than a breeze.
“No way.”
“Told you so.”
“They’re really together?”
I felt eyes on us : curious, surprised, delighted, or quietly judgmental . Faces peered from around corners; some students exchanged wide-eyed glances, others grinned with quiet approval. Some portraits on the walls turned their heads to watch with raised brows and gentle amusement. Even the enchanted suits of armor gave the faintest, respectful clinks as if nodding in acknowledgment.The enchantments woven into the castle itself stirred faintly around us, sensing the shift in emotion, the tender change between two students no longer pretending to be just friends.
But no one dared to break the fragile magic of the moment.
And we didn’t care.
Not anymore.
A warmth blossomed in Sebastian’s eyes, and as the candlelight flickered around us, it felt like a new chapter was just beginning, one filled with hope.
Later after the dinner, we walked back to the common room at a leisurely pace, savoring the quiet moments, reluctant to part.
Sebastian let out a soft sigh and suddenly pulled me down with him onto the couch, me sitting on top of him, his hands resting gently on my waist. The firelight played across his face, casting shadows along his cheekbones and illuminating the warm, thoughtful look in his eyes.
“You look like you’re still in a dream,” I said, turning to face him.
He smiled “Feels like one,” he murmured, brushing a strand of hair behind my ear. “I feel like I am. Like if I blink too fast, you’ll vanish and I’ll wake up in bed. But it’s real. That’s the part I still can’t get over.”
“I’m not going anywhere,” I whispered.
“I’ve been alone with my thoughts for so long,” he said after a pause. “Too long. Even when people were around. Especially after everything…” His voice faltered. “I didn’t realize how much I was pushing everyone away until I looked up and there was no one left. Except you.”
He held my gaze for a long moment, then leaned in not to kiss me again, but to rest his forehead gently against mine. His breath was warm, faintly scented with mint.
“I don’t know what I did to deserve this,” he murmured. “To deserve you.”
“You didn’t have to do anything,” I replied softly. “You just had to let me in.”
A long silence passed between us. It wasn’t awkward. It was soft. Sacred.
Then he chuckled, almost to himself.
“What?” I asked, smiling.
“I’m just thinking about your owl,” he said, grinning. “When she has to carry my letter home to your parents, she’s going to hate me.”
“Athena doesn’t hate anyone,” I said. “She just… withholds affection until it’s earned. You’ll win her over.”
He raised an eyebrow. “Same way I won you over?”
“Mm, no,” I teased. “You just got lucky with me.”
Sebastian laughed, really laughed, and the sound filled the room like warm light.
We stayed by the fire until the castle began to dim around us, the flames dwindling to embers. We talked quietly, sharing stories, hopes, and fears we hadn’t dared voice before. Sebastian traced idle patterns on my back, his touch gentle and steady, grounding me in the moment.
At one point, we fell into comfortable silence, just listening to the crackling fire and the distant echoes of the castle settling for the night. I rested my head against his shoulder, feeling the steady beat of his heart beneath me.
Outside the window, stars bloomed like silver ink across the velvet night.
Neither of us wanted to break the spell of those quiet hours, the way the world seemed to pause just for us. It felt like time itself was letting us steal a few more moments of peace.
I smiled softly, gathering my strength as I pushed myself up from where I was sitting on him. “Come on,” I whispered, my hair falling like a curtain across his face. Without hesitation, he reached up, gently sweeping the strands aside, his fingers lingering as he cupped my cheeks.
His gaze lingering on me with quiet awe. “You’re so beautiful,” he murmured, voice low and full of wonder — as if saying it made everything feel a little more real.
I felt a blush rise to my cheeks, my heart fluttering in a way that surprised me. “Sebastian…” I .. We really should get some sleep.”
He grinned teasingly. “Who would’ve thought I have the power to make the hero of Hogwarts stumble like this?”
I laughed, a little breathless. “You’re full of surprises.”
His smile softened, and he looked at me with quiet hope. “Will I see you in the morning?”
«You’ll see me at breakfast, lunch, after lunch, and before dinner...until the end of the week. Then I’ll go back to London to join my family, but I’m already planning your arrival. Nothing less!”
“Okay, okay,” he chuckled, standing up with a smile. “I just don’t want this...us...to feel like a dream come morning.”
The way his eyes held mine made my heart skip, like this moment was suspended between what was real and what I wished it could be forever.
I stepped closer and pressed a gentle kiss to the corner of his mouth. His breath hitched, and I caught the faint scent of mint, grounding me to him.
“It won’t,” I promised, my voice barely above a whisper. “It’s real.”
As we headed toward our dorms, the castle corridors felt quieter somehow, like they were holding their breath, too.
At the staircase, where our paths would split for the night, he stopped and took my hand again. His fingers curled around mine with a tenderness that spoke volumes. He lifted my hand and kissed it, his lips warm and soft.
“Sweet dreams,” he whispered.
“Only if you’re in them,” I said, my voice trembling with more courage than I’d felt all day.
He smiled, then gently brushed a stray lock of hair behind my ear, a simple, intimate gesture that sent a thrill straight through me. I caught myself thinking, He’s probably teasing me for being cheesy… but also secretly proud that I said it out loud. His eyes searched mine, silent but full of promises yet to be spoken.
Then, his lips met mine once more, soft, slow, lingering, before he turned and disappeared up the stairs.
I stood there long after, my hand still tingling from his touch, my lips still warm from the kiss, my chest swelling with something light and hopeful. Maybe everything wasn’t fixed. Maybe the future still held shadows. But for the first time in a long time, I didn’t feel like I had to face it alone. And somehow, that made all the difference.
The next morning, after a light breakfast, Sebastian settled into the armchair by the window in my bedroom. “Come here,” he said, patting his knee. I smiled and sat down gently on his lap, feeling the warmth of his arms around me.
I grinned, pulling a folded parchment from my bag. “Look what arrived this morning. Athena must’ve flown extra fast with this letter! I guess my parents wanted to make sure you saw it as soon as possible.”
He chuckled softly, eyes sparkling with curiosity. “Well, even owls know when something’s important.”
I unfolded the letter carefully and began to read aloud, my voice steady as my parents’ words filled the room, full of pride, humor, and welcome.
Dearest,
We received your letter with big smiles… and a little laughter.
First of all, congratulations on your O.W.L. results! You did brilliantly, and we couldn’t be prouder. All those long nights studying (and complaining in your letters about “certain Slytherins who won’t let me concentrate”) clearly paid off.
And speaking of that particular Slytherin…
So, Sebastian, hmm? The mysterious “study partner” who kept popping up in your letters. He “happens to sit nearby,” “makes me laugh even when I’m frustrated,” “just understands things differently…” Sweetheart, we may not wiels ancient magic like you, but we’re not clueless either. Even your father eventually said, “That boy’s taking up more space in her letters than her Transfiguration homework.”
We’re happy for you, truly. He sounds like someone good for you, and if he brings even a little light into all that magical chaos, then he’s already welcome in our home.
We’re very much looking forward to meeting him. He is now officially (and affectionately) invited to visit during the holidays. Though, he should know a few things ahead of time:
– Your father has taken out the good tablecloth, the one we only use for “serious business.”
– You’ll need to help explain to your grandfather that no, he’s not a Muggle.
– He will be challenged to a game of Exploding Snap by your brother, which is highly humiliating for the loser.
We love you endlessly, we’re so proud of you, and we can’t wait to hug you. And Sebastian too, yes ...assuming he survives the family gauntlet.
All our love (and a hint of impatience),
Mum & Dad
P.S. Dad says: “Tell Sebastian he’d better like pumpkin pie or at least be very good at pretending.”
As I read aloud, his lips curved into a smile at the familiar, warm tone of my parents’ words. When I reached the part about him “taking up more space in my letters than my Transfiguration homework,” he chuckled softly and nudged me.
“Guess I’m officially more important than your studies now,” he teased, his grin mischievous.
I laughed, shaking my head. “Don’t let it go to your head.”
His eyes sparkled as I read about the family gauntlet, exploding Snap challenges, pumpkin pie tests, and the infamous “good tablecloth.” He groaned dramatically.
“Exploding Snap? Really? I should have known. I’ll need some serious practice before I visit you.”
I smiled, folding the letter back up. “They’re excited. And honestly, it feels good to know they’re already rooting for us.”
He took my hand gently. “Me too. And hey, if your brother loses at Snap, I’m expecting a celebration.”
I squeezed his hand back. “Deal. But only if you survive pumpkin pie first.”
We sat together in comfortable silence for a moment, the letter resting between us like a promise of new beginnings and maybe a little chaos.