Second Chance- George Weasley

Second Chance- George Weasley

George Weasley 

Sixth Year of Hogwarts 

The sixth-year girl walked through the hallways, searching for a place to spend her free period before returning to class. She ended up choosing to recline against one of the arches that overlooked the main gardens of the castle, intending to resume reading the new book she had started recently. She had been trying to avoid a certain person since yesterday, and so far, it had been successful, as she didn't have any classes in common with the Gryffindor boy that day and had breakfasted earlier than usual. However, her reading was interrupted by the voice of someone calling her. Without even having to turn her face to know who it was, her body tensed, and she closed her book, ready to leave.

-Hey, Fernsby! Wait! - The redhead boy quickened his pace, leaving his brother and best friend behind. ---(Y/N)! - The Ravenclaw stopped with a sigh, knowing this time there was no escape, and turned around, forcing a smile.

-George... What's up? - He raised an eyebrow when he noticed this and crossed his arms, observing her.

-Are you avoiding me? Because that's what it looks like. -

-No- (Y/N) shook her head repeatedly, glancing at the two people now behind George. -Fred, Lee. - She greeted warmly, smiling halfheartedly.

-(Y/N)- Both said simultaneously, mirroring the young woman's gesture.

-Guys, why don't you go on ahead? I need to have a conversation with (Y/N) for a moment. - George said, making the girl feel uncomfortable for a few seconds, Fred and Lee watching both with some amusement.

-Sure, see you in the Great Hall, Georgie. - His brother tapped him on the shoulder and smiled in farewell to (Y/N) before leaving with Lee, leaving the two alone.

-So... What do you need to talk to me about? - The Ravenclaw asked, biting her lip in a nervous reaction to the tension she felt in that moment. She knew perfectly well what they needed to talk about.

- I waited for you for an hour yesterday at the Three Broomsticks as we agreed, and you never showed up... I even had to give someone the butterbeer I bought, for you. -

- Oh...- (Y/N) couldn't help but feel a pang of guilt when George mentioned the latter. Perhaps standing him up hadn't been as good an idea as she thought. In fact, it hadn't been a good idea at all. -I'm sorry, I honestly completely forgot that we were supposed to meet, and I didn't even go to Hogsmeade. -

- You're lying- George almost immediately said, still with his arms crossed over his chest.

- I'm not lying! -

- Of course you are. Every time you lie, you can't look people in the eyes, and you play with the ring you're wearing right now. -

The girl glanced at her hand for a second, ceasing the spinning of her ring to look back at George, somewhat surprised by that observation.

-What's going on, (Y/N)? I thought you were okay with going on a date with me...- She sighed upon hearing that and briefly averted her gaze from the redhead before speaking.

- Listen, George, I'm sorry. It's just that I don't think this— - Her hand moved, pointing to herself and then to him- is a good idea. Maybe it's better if we stick to me helping you with Potions and nothing more. - George frowned upon hearing this and shook his head.

-That's stupid. What made you change your mind? Did I do something wrong? Did someone tell you something about me? -

- No - (Y/N) hurried to say, being completely honest this time. - I just... I don't think I'm what you're looking for in someone, George. There are plenty of other girls who would love to go out with you. Much prettier, more interesting, definitely more laid-back- She added with a forced laugh, avoiding direct eye contact. -I don't want to waste your time, not when it comes to me. -

His expression twisted upon hearing these words from (Y/N), huffed, shaking his head before moving a bit closer to the girl. Making her lift her face to be able to see him due to the significant height difference.

-It's me who decides what I'm looking for in someone. I don't want to date anyone else; I want you... I thought I made that pretty clear when we talked before- He moved a bit closer, causing the girl's nerves to spike along with the beating of her heart.

—George—

—Let me finish— He whispered, never breaking eye contact with (Y/N). -I don't need someone who's just like me; I want someone who complements me. I don't care if you prefer being in the library instead of pulling pranks. I definitely don't care if you think you're carrying a few extra pounds or if you sometimes struggle with your hair- His hand takes a curl resting on (Y/N)'s face and moves it aside as his gaze descends to her lips. -Don't push me away without giving me a chance. That's all I'm asking for.-

(Y/N) sighs at the redhead's words, the butterflies in her stomach now fluttering intensely as he was so close, she could feel the gentle brush of their noses.

—A date, just that— The boy whispered, daring to draw her closer by the waist, his lips now brushing against (Y/N)'s. -And if you're not pleased, I'll let you go. We'll just go back to being the same old classmates... Please. -

He left a small kiss on her lips, causing (Y/N) to feel like she was melting in the arms of the beloved redhead. She gazed at him for a moment before nodding, returning the gesture with a small, shy kiss that brings an immediate smile to George's face.

—Should I take that as a yes? — He chuckled, pulling back slightly to get a better look at her. —Yes...— (Y/N) smiled shyly, forcing herself to step back completely. -This Friday, we'll meet at the Black Lake at 5 in the evening. I'll take care of the rest. It's the least I can do after leaving you hanging yesterday. - George laughed and nodded, slipping his hands into his pockets as he watched the girl start to walk away, keeping her gaze fixed on him as she walked backwards.

—It's a date then, see you later, Fernsby!

—Until later, Weasley. Don't be late for tomorrow's tutoring! — The redhead chuckled at that, shrugging while keeping his eyes on her.

—I can't promise anything, darling. — (Y/N) rolled her eyes, shaking her head before turning around to continue her way to the class about to begin, unable to shake off thoughts of a certain someone who was slowly but surely stealing her heart.

Wish I Didn't Love You- Neville Longbottom

Neville Longbottom

Seventh Year at Hogwarts

I have never run as fast and desperately in my life as I am doing right now. Even with the pain spreading throughout my body, the only thing I can think about is not being caught. My feet directed me on their own, knowing perfectly well the path they should take. Alecto Carrow had stopped hot on my heels thanks to the Locomotor Mortis I had recently thrown at him. However, that wouldn't last for long. I take the last curve towards my final destination and my mind repeats over and over again what I needed to appear at this moment. Just when I reach the wall for which I had run so much, a door appears in front of my eyes and without thinking twice I enter it. Instantly, I feel all eyes on me and even when I try to get the words out of my mouth, it is almost impossible due to uncontrolled breathing.

– What are you doing standing there? Help her! — Seamus moves through the mass of students, hurriedly approaching me while he takes a quick look at me. 

— Have they followed you here? Did anyone see you enter? —

—No—I manage to say between breaths—I gott rid of Alecto on the way. He won't make it this far. —

—Good. — Seamus' frown deepened as he took in my appearance. I could still feel the intense pounding on my bleeding nose, but nothing compared to the pain in my left arm. — Wake Neville up , he needs to know what happened. —

Padma Patil instantly darts toward one of the hammocks seeking out Neville, while Seamus holds me firmly by the waist and with Colin's help we head towards one of the available chairs. Colin wastes no time and begins to examine me more exhaustively, noticing the multiple blows spread across my body and the arm that made it impossible for me to move. 

—We'll need a bone-growing potion for this...— He hurriedly walks to the other side of the Room of Requirement, being swiftly replaced with a familiar face. —

— (Y/N) — Neville kneels before me, cupping my face in his hands and his expression etched with concern. —What the hell happened? —

—Alecto.— I limit my words to that as Colin had returned with a bottle in his hand. —

—Her arm is broken— He comments to Neville as he sits next to me.—This is what we have left of the Skele-Gro.—It may not be enough to completely repair the damage, but it will help at least. We can heal the nose easily. (Y/N), I know this will hurt but it's necessary, okay? —

—Do what you have to do...— I responded, my voice trembling due to the pain. Neville, sensing my distress, settles beside me, clasping my hand gently, offering a reassuring squeeze. He signals Colin to continue, who seconds after whispers 'Episkey', causing my nose to return to its original state with a small 'crack'. I let out a painful moan when I feel that sensation and I squeeze Neville's hand harder. He begins to gently rub my back while he rests his chin on my head. —

— Here you go — Seamus hands me the Skele-Gro. — it will take some time to do its effect so once you drink it you should lie down. Maybe it will help you with the pain. —

I nod listening to his words and without thinking too much I down the liquid in a single movement. The disgusting taste takes over all my senses and I grimace, handing the bottle to Colin before leaning back against Neville, closing my eyes. The boys leave giving me space and a few minutes later the pain I felt in my arm multiplies four times more, causing me to make multiple complaints of pain and some rebellious tears to escape from my eyes. Neville doesn't leave my side for a second and whispers in my ear that the pain would pass soon and I would be fine. A few minutes later I start to feel a little better and he gets up looking for a piece of cloth that he tears and ties to his liking to put around my arm so that I have some kind of support. The next few minutes were spent in silence allowing my body to get a little used to the pain to the point where I could breathe somewhat normally again.

—How... How did he do this to you? — Neville whispers after a while, causing me to come out of my little trance. —

—I was leaving the library when Alecto saw me. — I sigh, brushing the hair away from my face with the hand that was still healthy — He stopped me and began to question me about where you were hiding. I told him I knew absolutely nothing and he stressed to me over and over again how close you and I were... He couldn't get any information out of me so he decided it was time to take me to the dungeons. Anyway, I escaped before he could do anything else. That's when he started following me and along the way he managed to attack me a couple of times. On one of those times I fell down the stairs and ended up with this.— I point to my nose and arm vaguely. — I knew that if that woman ended up capturing me I would end up dead so I got up and continued my way here. —

—Then you're not going back out there.— He whispers with a thick voice and tense muscles as he observes me carefully. His features were strong and somewhat wrinkled, giving me the impression that he was angry. — I knew that it was a mistake for you to return after the Easter holidays. You should have listened to me (Y/N). —

—And what did you want? That I would sit at home with my hands folded when the school is falling apart and you're basically shouldering the burden alone? What kind of person would I be if I did something like that Neville? —

—Someone who wants to live (Y/N)!— He raises his voice a little, causing my body to tense and the anger to increase.—

—That is the most stupid and selfish thought I have ever heard you say. —

—Selfish?— He laughs sarcastically, shaking his head— Don't you realize? Ginny and Luna are gone. Who knows if they are still alive after all this time. Dean is on the run because his life is in danger and no one is safe here, no one (Y/N). And I’m selfish for wanting to protect you? Look how you are right now! Do you think it's worth it? —

—Why wouldn't it be worth it? Neville, we're in this together. I can't be far from my friends, from you, knowing the type of people we are facing. You and I made a promise and I won't be the one to break it. So forgive me if you don't agree with my way of thinking, but it is what it is and that's the end of the matter. —He snorts, shaking his head and crosses his arms, remaining silent for a few minutes.—

—Sometimes, I wish I hadn't fallen for you…— Neville's words pull my gaze to him, and as he sighs, I see the weight of his feelings mirrored in his eyes. — Not in this reality we're trapped in. I wish I didn't have to fear losing you, seeing you hurt, or wondering if each kiss might be the last. But that's not the hand we've been dealt. I can't stop loving you, can't shake off these fears, can't help being selfish when it comes to you, because, (Y/N), you're everything to me. Just try to see it from my side, even for a moment, please.—

His voice wavers, and my heart clenches, a lump forming in my throat. Shifting on the couch, I lean against his chest, feeling his arms envelop me in a cocoon of warmth.

—That's what I do every single day.— I murmur, hiding my face in the curve of his neck.— I've seen you hurt so often, I've feared your life slipping away in my arms. I've watched you champion others, devise plans to protect them, and take risks just to show us reasons to keep fighting. I hate that you constantly put yourself in danger, yet I can't help but believe you're the person we all need in these times. Let me support you. Don't push me away, asking me to see things your way because I can't, not when I'm here to care for you and others just as you do.—

Neville sighs and pulls me a little tighter in his arms, careful not to touch my injured arm. We remain silent for a couple of minutes until he separates himself a little from me so he can look me in the eyes.

—Let's clean you up a little so you can rest. I'll be back, stay here. - I move away from him so he could go get some things and he returns with a cloth and some water. He sits down next to me and begins to wipe the blood off of my face with such gentleness that it seems as if he were afraid of breaking.

My gaze traces his face, lingering on his pink lips and the newly grown beard, a testament to the weeks spent confined in the Room of Requirement. Stress had etched maturity onto his features, evident in the shadows beneath his eyes—common to all of us—but he retained the same handsome allure from last summer, perhaps even more so. As he finishes tending to me, a tender kiss graces my cheek, eliciting a half-hearted smile that cherishes every display of affection from him.

Resting my forehead against his, I toy with his hand before our lips brush fleetingly, fulfilling the longing that had brewed within me for days. Our mouths meet in a soft, unhurried kiss, an expression of emotions unspoken. When we separate, Neville's faint smile lingers, punctuating the moment with a final kiss placed gently upon my forehead.

—It's better that you rest for a while. I have to go get more food. When I get back I'll wake you up, okay? — I nod and he gets up from the couch so he can lie me down on it. — I'll see you later, try not to scare me anymore today, okay? —

—Only if you try not to give me headaches either. — Neville laughs lowly, rolling his eyes and nods. —

— I can try, I don't promise anything. —I smile and Neville waves goodbye, while I close my eyes trying to fall asleep.—

Ron Weasley- My Good Luck Charm

Ron Weasley

Sixth year at Hogwarts

The atmosphere at Hogwarts during Quidditch matches is electric, pulsating with euphoria and excitement. Students go all out, painting their faces in the vibrant colors of their respective houses, crafting banners, waving flags, and even plotting celebration parties in anticipation of a victorious outcome. Today marked a significant event as Gryffindor was making its debut in the season, facing off against their arch-rivals, Slytherin.

Ron Weasley, recently appointed as the guardian, found himself engulfed in nerves, his thoughts muddled and unclear. Although deserving of his spot on the team, he couldn't shake the feeling that Harry had made a grave mistake in choosing him. Gryffindor peers passed by, offering encouraging words and reminding him that today was not the day for mistakes. Ron managed a smile and a nod, yet deep down, he contemplated fleeing the Great Hall and seeking refuge in the castle's most secluded corners.

Seated at his table, Ron tried to deflect the expectant gazes of his friends, focusing solely on the breakfast plate crafted specifically for him. Hermione, sensing the tension, exchanged a knowing glance with Harry. After a brief silence, she cleared her throat, attempting to dispel the awkwardness that lingered between them.

– Today is the big day... How do you feel?– The weight of those words hung in the air as the boy took a deep breath, locking eyes with his best friends before uttering his thoughts.

– I'm going to quit. After today's game, McLaggen can take my place.–

– No, of course you won't.– Harry interjected swiftly, a frown etching his face as he sought support from Hermione with a pleading gaze. – You've been waiting for this opportunity for a whole year!–

– Well, I don't want it anymore. I know how this will all end, and I'd rather spare myself the embarrassment and the disappointed looks that everyone else will give me when that happens.–

– Good morning!– The recognizable voice sliced through the tension, causing Ron to tense up. He avoided any reaction as the girl sat next to him.– I heard that snow will fall today; it will be an interesting game.– (Y/N) smiled, grabbing a piece of toast. For the first time, she looked at her friends and her boyfriend, sensing that none of them were in good spirits. –What's wrong?–

– Ron wants to quit the team after today's game– Hermione replied, rolling her eyes and setting aside the newspaper she had been reading with interest until that moment.

– Why would you do something like that?– The girl who had just arrived observed the redhead with a grimace of confusion on her face.

– Because I'm not interested in hearing the complaints and insults of others when I lose the game.– The young man murmured, casting a sidelong glance at his girlfriend, anticipating her reaction.

– That's the stupidest excuse I've ever heard in my life.– Harry whispered, taking a sip of his orange juice. Ron raised his face to glare at him.

– I don't think I asked for your opinion, Harry. Not all of us can be as talented as you, so save the comments.– Ron stood up from the table, his facial features and muscles tense, ready to leave.

– Ron – (Y/N) stood up instantly, intending to stop him. Before she could do anything, though, Ron had already left. She sighed, shook her head, and picked up the small package he had left on the table.– I'll go talk to him... See you in a while.– Hermione nodded, giving her a small smile, and the young woman left with hurried steps, trying to catch up with the Weasley who had just departed.

Luckily, she managed to find him a few steps ahead and called out to him, but he didn't stop. (Y/N) tried once more and ran until she was behind Ron, grabbing his arm and forcing him to stop.

– Please don't make me chase you like you're a little child.–

– I'm not in the mood to talk right now, (Y/N). – The redhead muttered, turning around to face his girlfriend.– I don't want us to end up arguing because of me.–

–Then let's not do it.– (Y/N)'s grip on Ron's arm loosened, and he took her hand as they walked toward a quiet corner of the hallway, avoiding the attention of people passing by. – Listen, you can't let the nerves dominate your mind. It's normal to be anxious, but this is supposed to be fun, Ron. After all, that's why it's still a game.–

– It's easy for you to say.– He snorted, rolling his eyes. – The only thing I've heard since yesterday is how much they expect of me in this game, while the disgusting snakes have made my life miserable by reminding me of all the possible ways in which I will fail once the match starts.–

– And you are giving them the pleasure of having their words affect you. You are capable of winning this game and more, but with this mentality, you won't achieve anything. I wish I had the ability to make you feel better, but the reality is that if you don't trust yourself, there is nothing I can do about it.– Ron hesitated, listening to the girl's words, and stopped avoiding her gaze. – Give yourself the opportunity to enjoy this day and stop thinking so much about what other people think of you. –

– And what if I care what you think of me?– He whispered, relaxing his shoulders a little and intertwining her hand with his.

– My affection for you will never change because of the results of some silly games, Ron. You could be making a fool of yourself, and I'll be there cheering you on as if you were the star of the show.– Ron laughed lightly at that, and (Y/N) smiled, noticing the positive impact her words had on him.

– I don't know how you do it, but you always manage to calm me down.– His hands slide towards his girlfriend's waist, lifting her a little to bridge the height difference between them. (Y/N)'s smile widens, and she rests her arms on the shoulders of the redhead. – Thank you for putting up with my childishness.–

– You're welcome.– She laughed softly and left a small kiss on his lips before revealing a small cardboard box in his hands. – This is for you.–

Ron observed curiously as (Y/N) offered him the box, nodding to give her permission to open it for him. (Y/N) opened the small box and took out the leather bracelet inside, showing it to her favorite Weasley. 

– It's a lucky charm. I don't know if it really works or brings you some peace of mind, but I wanted you to have something that will remind you that there will always be someone who believes in you no matter what.–

–(Y/N)...– A smile even bigger than the previous one appeared on his face, and he placed the young woman back on the ground to take the bracelet in his hands. – You didn't have to do this... Thank you.– He watched her for a moment, and she nodded with a smile to help him place the bracelet under the wool shirt she was wearing. – Come here.–

He pulled his girlfriend closer around her waist and lowered her face to his level, their lips now touching. (Y/N) laughed softly and tangled her hands in Ron's hair, letting the redhead kiss her as he has done many times before. Even though they had been together for a year, the butterflies in their stomachs had not faded. (Y/N)'s lips were soft and tasted like cherry from the lip balm she always wore. Kissing her was like being in the best of dreams that you didn't want to wake up from. For the girl, there was nothing better than being in Ron's arms—warm, comforting, and intense all at once. They both separated for air, and Ron rested his forehead against hers, gently touching their noses. (Y/N) slided her thumb over the redhead's blushing cheek and left another small kiss on his lips before breaking the comfortable silence between them.

–I think it's time for you to go with the others... The game is going to start soon, and we don't want you to be late.–

–I wouldn't mind doing it if it means I can kiss you again.– He laughed softly, earning a light blow to his chest.

– It's not going to happen. Also, you have to apologize to Harry for what happened a while ago.–

–Do I have to? – Ron rolled his eyes with a complaint.

–It's the right thing to do, Weasley. Don't think about it too much.–

–Okay...– He sighed, separating from her, prolonging the moment where their bodies part completely. –I hope to see you in the stands shouting for me.–

–Don't doubt it.– (Y/N) smiled, brushing a strand of hair away from her face. –I love you, Ron.–

–And I love you too... I'll see you shortly.– The boy smiled, winked, and forced himself to turn his back, leaving with a newfound wave of confidence and tranquility in his body that a few hours ago he could never have imagined he would have, thanks to her.

Punshing Bodies jaja :) @priieta (Taken with GifBoom)

By my side- Regulus Black

Regulus Black

Seventh year at Hogwarts

Regulus Black was not one to be hurt easily on the field. In fact, he was considered one the best chasers on the field since becoming part of the Quidditch team at Hogwarts. However, that day turned out to be different. Word on the bleachers stated it was a mixture of bad weather and the longest game seen since the start of the season, while others think it was just the result of lack of attention. Either way, the main point was the young man was hit heavily with one of the Quaffles, demanding him to stop playing almost immediately as he could not even move his arm. 

It didn’t take long for him to be on his way to the Nursing Wing of the school, being chaperoned by one of the nurses assigned to assist any emergencies that occurred at the games. Once there, the quietness of the place disappeared, being replaced by instant haste and seriousness. It wasn’t uncommon to see this kind of injury, but nevertheless it was still just as important to treat it with the utmost importance. Madame Pomfrey didn’t take too long to make a presence, demanding different sorts of things that were delivered in an instant. With water dripping down his chin and clothes, Regulus had a tense jaw and a big frown on his face while trying to not concentrate on the pain that extended all over his arm.

- Miss Bennett, come assist me- The girl, who stood a few feet away from the scene, looked nothing but surprised at the request of the head of nursing services, as she was only an apprentice. But that didn't stop her to be on Madame’s Pomfrey’s side in a second, being ready for whatever the superior asked.

- See the shape and limpness of the arm? - She nodded now observing him- That’s an indication that the arm is broken. You can also notice how it’s starting to swell. - Regulus grunts once he feels his arm being lifted moderately, just to assess the rest of the situation. – We’ll need to give him a shot of Murtlap Essence just to ease a bit of the pain. What else do we need in this situation?–

- Skele-Gro- responds the girl and the young man snorts being annoyed with the whole situation–

- Could you please choose another moment to give a lesson?– 

- Oh dear, don’t confuse this as a lack of efficiency- The old nurse extends her arm to receive the potion she just mentioned a minute ago by another of the employees on shift- Either way, it’s not like you’re going to have too much fun in the next couple of hours. - Regulus’s expressions worsens once he drinks what he was offered, just as the girl decides to add something in almost a whisper–

Don’t mind that. You’ll feel better soon...- He raises his gaze to look at her, noticing just now that she was someone he already knew. They had two classes together, Potions and Transfiguration to be exact, and she was oddly good in the first one. He, however, did not know what to say at that moment or why exactly she was there, so he preferred to stay quiet as he was helped by the same girl to lay down in one of the dozen beds spread throughout the big room.

The next couple of minutes were honestly a blur. One moment his arm was being stabilized and the other he felt what could be described as excruciating pain once he had drunk the disgusting Skele-Gro. Madame Pomfrey said the process of his bones getting back in place could take a couple of hours, maybe a whole day, so he had no other choice than to stay there until being back to his most normal self if taking the situation into consideration.

Hours passed by and no one really came to see how he was doing, making it clear that at least Slytherin still won the game and people, and his so-called “friends”, were probably celebrating the recent victory. Regulus didn’t expect any less, he knew he had no one to count on, especially now that his brother was out of school and even worse, out of his life. His classmate, on the other hand, was not okay with that thought. So even when she was free to go and rest for the rest of the night, she decided to stay there and make sure he was okay, dismissing Madame’s Pomfrey disapproving look. She only left his side to go get some food for both, coming back to find him awake and in complete silence.

The young Black heard her footsteps and looked to his side, just to see her being a few steps away from him with her hands full of bags of food.

- What are you doing here? - He asked, not arrogantly, but confused. –

- I figured you would be hungry after everything that happened today. - She placed the food on his lap, sitting then on the chair next to him. –

- You didn’t have to…- He extended his good arm to open the bag and see what was on the inside. He wasn’t hungry at all. But either way, he took the pear lying on top of everything else and gave it a bite just to show her he was thankful. - Thank you. –

She just nodded, being more concentrated on her own food than anything else. Minutes passed by with just pure silence and occasional looks from one to the other. Regulus was not sure on how to act around her. To be honest, he didn’t know her at all, not even her name. They probably exchanged not more than ten words in almost seven years they have been studying together, so surely, it felt like there was nothing to talk about. The silence, opposite to what he was thinking, didn’t last much longer as the Hufflepuff decided to talk.

-Slytherin won the game. They said it was the toughest game of the year, but you’ll probably keep being on the lead. –

- I imagine…- He murmurs not being as excited as he could be in other circumstances. – Better luck next time for Hufflepuff? I’m sure you’ll do better in the next games. - He wasn’t sorry, of course, but he didn’t know what else to say. –

-Oh. I don’t care if we win. I don’t even understand all the fuss and excitement behind that game. –

- Okay now… You don’t have to insult Quidditch that way. - She laughed seeing he was actually a bit offended by that comment. - I’m sure you would think otherwise if you went to the games instead of doing whatever it is you’re doing over here. —

- Well, I’m also sure my education is way more important than staying there for hours watching people be… Kind of dumb, to be honest. —

- Ey, you’re taking it too far… Bennett- He remembered from earlier- So what is it exactly that you do here? –

- Contact hours. I want to study medicine when I’m out of here, and since I have some free time to spare, the headmaster let me be an extra pair of eyes and hands so that I start getting used to what goes around in this field. It’s a bargain if you ask me. —

- I’m sure it is. – She’s a curious girl, he thought. There was something in the way she talked and acted that was so new and different to him- So when was the last time you went to a Quidditch game? –

- I don’t know. Maybe two years ago? Can’t remember exactly. —

-No.- He looked at her as if she was crazy. - You must be lying to me. —

- I’m not- She shrugs, looking at him unbothered- It’s not that big of a deal. –

- Umm yes, it is. There is a reason why it’s considered the biggest game in the wizarding world. You should give it a second chance. –

- Sure… Maybe I will. After all, I need to see if my potion did the job- There was something in her smile now that screamed ‘mischievous’, and he didn’t know how to interpret that. —

- What do you mean? –

- Who do you think made the Skele-Gro? - Her smile widened- I told you, I’m an extra set of hands here now. - His face probably got whiter than it was originally, and she apparently found it even more funny, but he didn’t. – Guess I’ll have to go to the field to see how that arm works after today. —

-Okay…- He took a deep breath trying to not freak out right there. Regulus knew she was good at Potions, that’s how he remembered her. However, it was different when he knew there was a possibility for her talent to fail. After all, they were still in the same grade and everything. - I don’t really want to hear more about it. —

- Don’t worry Black- She smiled, now more laid back than before- You’ll be good to go before the sun rises. Or at least that is what Madame Pomfrey said. —

He was, indeed, almost back to normal once the morning came. Regulus was free to go with the order to return the next day to see how his arm was doing. He did not see the girl that stayed with him the whole night until he fell asleep, as he thought he would, however, he did get to see her at class the next day. He wanted to say thank you, but he didn’t even know when or how to approach her, so he didn’t. They both shared a look as they were going out of class, and he was almost sure he saw a small smile coming from her, which he didn’t have time to return before she was gone. Bennett wasn’t either at the Nursing Wing that day, so he figured maybe it wasn’t the right time to come close to her. 

That did not stop him from learning her name a couple days after. (Y/N) Bennett, just as Professor Slughorn stated while making sure that all students attended class that day since they were going on a special trip to find key ingredients for their next assignment. That day (Y/N) could swear she felt Regulus staring a couple of times, something that never happened before during all these years. But, instead of thinking much more about it, she just put it to the side, seeing it as a sign that she was overthinking the whole situation. 

The next time they saw each other was at the library, just an hour before its doors closed. Regulus was nose deep into his book, not even realizing that (Y/N) was walking around the shelfs looking for some books. However, she did see him, and after debating with herself for a minute or two she decided to approach him. The young man only lifted his eyesight from the words when noticing that someone was clearing their throat to get his attention, being actually surprised when he saw it was her. 

- Hello, Bennett.- She smiled nicely as he talked and just gave him a nod before talking.—

- How’s that arm doing?— 

- Well, I haven't had any problems yet. Although Madame Pomfrey said something about a 30 day period of trial. I guess that comes with being drugged by a classmate.- He was joking, and she knew it just by the way his body was relaxed and his voice was coated with a sweetness she couldn’t really describe.— 

-The best, may I remind you– She smiled, coking an eyebrow on the process, which was mimicked by him.—

-You’re pushing it too far… Anyways, about the whole thing, thank you. I hadn’t had the chance to tell you before.— 

-No need. It was nothing… Anybody would do it.—

-But it was you that did it. Nobody else was there, right?- For the first time she felt intimidated with his stare, feeling obligated to look somewhere else before the unknown feelings on her body made a bigger presence.—

-Right… Well anyways, I better get going now. I’ll see you at class?—

-As always- he gave her a small smile before going back to his previous position on the chair- Rest well. —

A week or two passed with little interactions between the two. From time to time there  was a stare, a hello or even just acknowledging their presence by sitting closer at class. However, that changed when they were paired together in an assignment in Transfigurations class. Others would see it as casualty, but Regulus knew it was all thanks to him. The professor already told them that she would be choosing the groups that day, so opposite to his normal self, he made sure to get to class a few minutes late and state loud enough that he had a headache. Of course, (Y/N) gave not long after that the suggestion for him to go to the nursery to get checked up, since it could be something related to his rough Quidditch practices. In any other moment, he would immediately shrug it off and completely ignore the unsolicited advice, but that day that was exactly what he wanted. And that’s how the girl ended up being asked to chaperone him to the other side of the school, which also resulted in being paired together for the assignment since they were the only two left without a partner. 

In those next two weeks they both got to know each other more. Remus noticed how demanding and perfectionist she was when it came to homework, which was slightly annoying, and cute, when thinking that he was, too, one of the best of his class. (Y/N), on the other hand, saw him more comfortable when talking and expressing his thoughts than the past six years. Remus was, in fact, a whole new being to unpack. He was sarcastic, funny, a bit dramatic and definitely smart. They found themselves debating about different topics, laughing, eating together and also learning a bit about Quidditch and medicine, much to both dismay, always with the excuse of having to do the project together. 

Remus often had to ignore the comments of his friends and other Slytherin’s classmates, which thought they had the right to say something about the girl because of her house or her coming from a family of mixed-blooded people. He knew what his parents would think about it too, he didn’t care, since he knew it was just a friendship, or whatever else someone could call it, that mattered only to both of them. That’s why it was disappointing when they turned in the assignment and had to go back to their normal routines once again. It was a shame, really, because if it was up to her, or him, she could spend way more time with Regulus than anybody else.

Two weeks after, the third game of the season finally arrived and Slytherin was playing against Ravenclaw. As always, the field was full to the brim with excited students and professors from all houses. Anybody could feel the nerves in the air, being this the last game before the semester ended for Christmas break. Regulus was seated on the bench inside the locker room, staying in complete silence as he always did before the beginning of any game. It was the best way he knew to concentrate and not get stressed with all the comments and loudness there was around him. However, he was interrupted when they let him know it was time to get checked and approved to play today. He went to do the usual line, being behind some of his fellow players and classmates, and he almost went back to his bubble if it weren’t from seeing a familiar face not far from him. Regulus couldn’t lie to himself even if he wanted to. His heart started to race a bit quicker when connecting eyes with (Y/N), who smiled almost immediately not paying attention to anything else at the moment. He smiled back, being a bit more discreet, and she made sure he would end up being checked by her when the time came. 

-You’re here.- He whispered, while she made sure he didn’t had any visible injury- I thought you didn’t like Quidditch.—

-I asked for permission to help on the field today. I need to make sure your arm works fine, remember?- He smiles, nodding just one time.- Also, it turns out I know more about Quidditch now than I have for my whole life. Maybe I’ll enjoy it a bit more.—

-I have no doubt you will. I’ll make sure to impress you today. You know… Just so that you wanna come back next time.- The girl laughs shyly, trying to not bring any attention to the both of them.—

-You better keep your word, Black.— 

-I always do.- He smiles back, looking at her attentively while she extends his arm, looking at him the same way.- What are you doing on Christmas break?—

-Umm… I don’t know? I guess just the usual. Spend time with the family and stuff… Why?- He shrugs, but never stops looking at her.— 

-You should write to me. Maybe we can plan to go out sometime and do something nice.— 

-Outside of school?- she raises an eyebrow, not sure if he was actually proposing to take her out on a date.— 

-Yes. Outside of school… How does that sound?— 

-Umm yeah…- She smiles, feeling how her cheeks start to feel a bit hot under his gaze and the closeness between them.- I would like that.—  

-Great. We’ll exchange addresses later. Maybe a pseudonym too? I can explain later.— 

-No need. I already know why.- She pads his shoulder- You’re good to go. Are you ready to kick some ass?— 

-I was born ready.- The girl laughs and rolls her eyes before looking at the room, making sure nobody else was there, and then taking a step towards him, kissing his cheek before losing any bravery she felt at that moment.—  

-Just for a little bit of extra luck then. I’ll see you later.—  

Regulus didn’t say anything. He was too surprised or nervous to answer that before the girl left the room. But he knew, right there, that was just another excuse to get this game over with and make sure to impress her, just so that he could do the same exact thing.