"Going to James' for Christmas?"

"Um, of course? Why in the name of Merlin's left sock would i stay at my place?"

"I dunno Sirius, I always did think you were a bit of an idiot."

We were walking back to the castle after our last training session before Christmas break. Despite just joining the team and being the only new member, Nick Smith and I had hit it off with a great chemistry on and off the field. And Marlene and I kept becoming closer and closer friends. Of course, I already knew her since i'd spent majority of every holiday at James' place and Marlene was always over, but quidditch just brought us closer together.

"I was thinking, we need to make a plan of what to do during the Christmas ball that Charlus and Dorea are going to put on."

"Well, it would depend on if it's been snowing at the Potter estate leading up to Christmas."

"Obviously, we'd go out in the snow then, but it hasn't snowed up here yet so we can't just assume-"

"Dorea wants us to make an appearance."

"What?"

"You heard me. She said we have to be at the ball for the hour at least. And if we do, you and Dorcas can stay the night."

"Sounds tempting, but I don't know why i'd want to spend even more time in your company."

I gasp, mock-offended, "My dear lady, whatever are you on about? Why are you here now, then?"

"Oh, well James is busy talking to Lara and Frank about some stupid idea he had so i didn't have any other company since Jess has prefect duty and Nick just disappears, doing his thing."

"You offend me."

She smiles, chocolate brown eyes overflowing with humour as she starts down the 4th floor corridor instead of the stairs. "Good."

"Where are you going? Common room's this way. 7th floor, remember?"

"I know. I'm meeting Gregory Colney."

"Oh ew," I wrinkle my nose, "See you later then."

And i turn away, feeling a strange dull ache in my heart as i ascend to the 5th floor. Strange. Ahead of me, I see a Hufflepuff 4th year. Vicky Chase.

"Vicky. Hey, Vicky!"