A/N at the end of chapter.
All mistakes are mine & will get to them when I can. (:
Disclaimer: Still don't own a thing.
_
Continuation from the last chapter—
August 21st, 1971
"This," Ollivander began with something akin to reverence in his voice as he lifted the lid off the box, "is a fifteen inch aspen wood with an acromantula web as its core."
He grabbed his own wand, swishing and flicking until the wand in the box began to levitate. Hermione was struck by how unique the wand had looked. It was sleek ivory with intricate webbing, the webbing a matte black, etched into the wood from the tip of the wand to the handle. But it didn't look like the webbing belonged. It had somehow seemed like it tainted the piece of magical wood.
"Before I begin," Ollivander started, "I would like to go over a bit of information about wandcrafting." He chuckled at her expression and shook his head, "not much, mind you. After all, a man has to keep his secrets, yes?"
Hermione nodded as she leaned forward, being careful not to come into contact with the wand. She could feel its magic emitting from the piece of wood and it caused a slight shiver to roll down her spine. It still amazed her how much there was to know in the Wizarding World and anything pertaining to magic was a plus in her book.
"As you know, wands are a tricky business." Ollivander carefully adjusted the wand in his hand, assuring that the spell he casted had held. "They have their own way of thinking and connecting to who they think will fit their needs."
Shaking her head, Hermione furrowed her brows and said, "I don't think I understand."
"Understandable," Ollivander murmured. "Not many know the secrets of creating a wand." He cleared his throat, obviously not wanting to dive into that particular conversation, and continued, "each wand consists of a special wood such as vine wood or sycamore and, as you know, are more common in wand crafting. Poplar, your sister's wand, is one of the rarest of woods and not many have matched its potential, hence, the reason one has not been crafted for quite some time."
"What does that even mean?" Hermione muttered, feeling frustrated that she was unable to grasp the conversation. She felt like she knew the answer to this but it wasn't properly making sense in her head.
"Poplar wands are always happiest when working with those of clear moral vision, yes?" Ollivander asked and Hermione nodded slowly. "While maple wands are often chosen by travellers and explorers by nature, etˈsedərə.
"Always remember, Ayla, that the wand chooses its owner."
Something clicked for Hermione as she began to nod vigorously, suddenly understanding what Ollivander was telling her. She should've known that much since her own wand had chosen her back in her previous life.
"Now the core is something else entirely," Ollivander commented with a chuckle. "Your sister's wand has a phoenix feather as her wand's core; meaning her wand in general is the rarest of them all, so rare, in fact, my great grandfather had been the one to create its potential.
"But, anyway, each core has abilities for great things and the three most common are unicorn hair, which produces the most consistent magic; Dragonheart string which generates wands with the most power and finally, the phoenix feather which is not only the rarest type, these days, but are capable of the greatest range of magic."
"But the wand you've brought out," Hermione observed quietly, "are neither of those you've just explained."
"And that is exactly why this wand is illegal." Ollivander expressed, quite proudly. "My shop has been passed down from generation to generation since before 382 B.C. My ancestors have been marrying magical wood to magical cores for a very long time. Before modern days they've used Basilisk Skin to White River Monster Spine and everything in between."
Nodding, Hermione lifted both brows in surprise. "That's pretty impressive."
Ollivander shook his head. "Impressive, yes, but very dangerous." He gestured to the wand still floating between them, "this, the aspen wand, is for revolutionaries; who are strong minded and determined, while the core," he shook his head, sighing heavily, obviously dreading what he was about to explain, "is associated with wizards and witches who have particular abilities with dark magics."
Taken aback, Hermione pursed her lips, shaking her head as she kept back the laugh that wanted to burst out. There was no way this wand was going to be her match and if Ollivander thought she was going to touch that— the fool had definitely lost the plot.
"Now before you go writing off anything involving dark magics let me ask you this: what makes dark magic, well, dark?"
Hermione opened her mouth to tell him exactly what dark magic was but quickly snapped her mouth shut. He was testing her, wasn't he? There was no dark magic and light magic— just magic. Magic was magic and could be done with good intentions or could be used for vile and vicious deeds. But no matter what magic was phenomenal.
It really wasn't magic, was it, but the witch and/or wizard casting the spell that could use their abilities for good or bad. Witches and wizards, such as Severus, who could alter a simple cutting spell, usually used in potions, which seemed quite harmless (was it though?), and fabricate it into Sectumsempra that could be quite deadly for its target. But it was magic and even Hermione had to admit that it was amazing what he had created from a severing charm.
Or maybe that really wasn't a great example to use because Severus did create the curse for his enemies…
But if we magical folks didn't learn how to invent spells, dangerous or not, and potions, and evolve— where would the Wizarding World be now? She knew it was steadily progressing, nothing like the muggle world, but getting there slowly yet surely was the pace in this case.
Hermione really wasn't justifying dark magic properly and she wanted to laugh and laugh and laugh because she was smarter than this, she really was, but at this point she probably should just stop thinking about it altogether.
"This wand," Ollivander spoke up, bringing her from her thoughts and focusing on the topic at hand, "was banned because of the user being incapable of wielding something so strong; so magical. Not anyone could pick up a wand with an acromantula web as its core and exactly master it. It takes time to bond with your wand before you lose your sanity."
"The elder wand," Hermione whispered, horrified.
Ollivander startled, breaking his spell on the aspen wand as it fell back into the box with a light thump. "I beg your pardon?"
"Oh—" Hermione shook her head, thinking of a lie that would be believable and said, "it was just some light reading I've done about the Deathly Hallows and how it was able to cast feats of magic that would normally be impossible even for the most skilled wizards."
"Well," Ollivander chuckled, "that is a subject we do not have the time to delve in, wouldn't you agree?" At Hermione's nod, he continued, "but this," he picked up the rectangular box, showing it to her, "would do absolutely tremendous acts for the caster; Someone who could connect with its magnetism and conquer, yet bind, themselves with this wand—"
"And you believe that to be me?" Hermione asked with uncertainty as she interrupted him and then ducking her head in embarrassment at how rude that actually was.
Ollivander chuckled. "Absolutely, Ayla."
Sinking her teeth into her bottom teeth, Hermione slowly nodded. She reached for the wand but paused midway and asked, "nothing is going to happen to me if it isn't my match, will it?"
"Of course not, dear." He urged her to continue, "go on."
Taking a deep breath, Hermione quickly picked up the wand and gasped as she felt her magic heightened like it never had before. She could feel every fibre of her being alight with a tingling warmth that left her feeling overwhelmed with pure ecstasy that was addictive, never wanting the feeling to go away. She held it more firmly in her hand, a light bursting from within every pore, causing her skin to glow a brilliant gold before slowly fading into a buzzing hum beneath the surface of her skin waiting to be released again.
"Woah," she murmured in amazement.
"Give it a flick, Ayla," Ollivander commanded lightly with glee in his voice. "Swish and flick, there you go— now say, Wingardium Leviosa."
Hermione did so and beamed brightly as Ollivander began to rise from the floor. "This is amazing!"
Ollivander also laughed in enthusiasm as he began to clap his hands. "Magnificent, dear, absolutely magnificent!"
"Ayla!"
Startled, Hermione broke the spell and quickly laid the wand, her wand, onto the counter and turned to face her father. "I'm sorry! I didn't mean to!"
"Oh, please don't be too upset with her, Alexander," Ollivander cut in with a chuckle. "She's found her match and got a little carried away."
Her father huffed out a chuckle. "I was beginning to worry when you didn't come find us." He lifted a brow. "Everything alright now?"
"Yes, father," Hermione answered with a smile. "I'm going to pay now and I'll meet you outside."
Narrowing his eyes, her father slowly nodded. "Five minutes, Ayla, and not a second more."
"Understood." She said and breathed a sigh of relief once her father walked back out. She then turned to Ollivander with a beaming smile. "Thank you, sir."
"Now, Ayla," Ollivander began with steadfastness. "I implore you to be cautious; be assertive yet modest; fierce yet gentle and above all else, be you." He smiled. "The wand always chooses the wizard, or, in your case, witch, and it is never wrong."
"Yes, sir," Hermione replied solemnly.
"And on that note," he clapped his hand, "the wand is free of charge."
"What?!" Hermione blurted with a shake of her head. "I possibly couldn't—"
"It's yours," he interrupted with a chuckle. "Now have a splendid day and I sincerely hope I hear from you soon, my dear."
Grabbing her wand carefully, Hermione sucked in her bottom lip and nodded animatedly, slowly stepping away from the counter. "I'll write to you, Mister Ollivander!"
"Until we meet again, Ayla Shafiq."
. . . .
"So, tell me again about your wand?"
Hermione chuckled as she jumped onto her sister's bed with a bag of goodies her father let her purchase at Sugarplum's Sweets Shop and cuddled as close as she could next to her twin– who was cuddling with a sleeping Crooks. Shaking her head, she leaned back against the headboard watching her sister bond with her familiar.
It was a bit awkward to watch another person bond with her old cat but she hoped Crooks would bring as much comfort to Ava as she did for her back in her third year.
Resting her head back against the headboard, Hermione smiled as she thought about her day. It was wonderful. They ate at The Spotted Toad and grabbed ice cream at Fortescue and her father even allowed them to purchase a few girly items from Madam Primpernelle's Beautifying Potions.
Spending time with their father had been surprisingly fun. It wasn't a regular occurrence where their father joined them on shopping sprees or the occasional dinner with mother's friends but this, this, was a day full of fun with her sister and her father and it made her feel so complete that Hermione wished the day hadn't ended.
The absence of her mother was obviously noticeable which reminded Hermione that she needed to cast that diagnostics spell to assure her that her mother was fine just feeling a bit off. Everyone had their off days, didn't they?
Hermione pushed Harry's glasses up her nose, remembering her sister had asked her a question and replied, "Aspen wood with an acromantula web as its core. But what I told you before, you can't tell anyone, Ava, I could rot in Azkaban with Ollivander."
"You know I wouldn't, you bitch." Ava snorted, reaching into the goodies bag and pulling out a licorice wand. "I'm completely caught off guard that he actually gave you a wand that has been banned for centuries, mind you, and didn't pay anything for it."
Shrugging her shoulders, Hermione grabbed her own sweet to munch on and said, "you should've seen his face, Aves," she shook her head, "he was amazed."
Ava hummed and bumped her shoulder with her own. "I love your spectacles. Finally fixed them, did you?"
"Yep." Hermione looked over and beamed. "They do give me an edge, don't they?"
Laughing aloud, Ava agreed. "They'll definitely be able to tell us apart, that's for sure."
They sat there for a bit, lost in their own thoughts as they continued to munch on the sweets.
"Listen, Aves," Hermione began. "I'm going to run a diagnostics spell on mother–"
"Ugh, Ayla, for Merlin's sake, can't you let her rest?"
Sitting up, Hermione cleared her throat and gave her sister a frown. "Are you not even a bit worried about her outburst earlier?"
"Of course, I am," Ava sighed heavily, pinching the bridge of her nose. "I just don't want to worry about that right now."
"But–"
"Please, Ayla," Ava looked up with pleading eyes. "Can we worry about this once we're settled in at Hogwarts? I already have you to worry about and Tom fucking Riddle. I also have to beg that fucking hat to place me in Gryffindor becasue I know for a fact it won't put me there otherwise." She sighed, leaning back against the headboard. "I don't think I can emotionally take it if there's something wrong with mother as well."
Pursing her lips, Hermione threw an arm over her sister's shoulder and hugged her tight to her side. "Okay," she spoke softly into her curls. "We'll worry about that later and focus on our mission but, Ava, if you're ever feeling like you're taking on too much, come talk to me. I will always be here for you."
Resting her head on top of her sister's, Hermione let out a sigh as she closed her eyes. She knew Ava was going through a rough time with everything and keeping it buried and hidden without an outlet— hell, they barely acknowledged their previous names, or their previous lives, for that matter, which was a sign of moving forward. She didn't know if she should curl into a ball and feel guilty and fall into depression as she cried nonstop or if she should feel relieved that the memories were slowly fading to the back of her mind, lessening the pain she always felt whenever she thought about it...
It didn't matter at this point, Hermione guessed. She really hoped Ava's time at Hogwarts with the Marauders and Lily would take some of that stress off her shoulders.
"Promise me you won't check it, Ayla," Ava whispered shortly after.
Casting her eyes skyward, Hermione slowly nodded. "I promise."
_
September 1st, 1971
"You didn't forget anything, did you?" Her mother smoothed the curls back from her face, sniffling, as she continued to check Hermione over for, what? She hadn't a clue. "You've got your jumper in your satchel? It'll get chilly by the time you arrive at Hogwarts. Oh! Please tell me you've gotten your book from the kitchen? I told—"
Hermione wrapped her arms around her mother's waist tightly. "I've got it, mum."
"You'll write to me, won't you?" Her mother sniffled, squeezing her back just as firmly.
"Of course, I will."
It had been a bit hard for Ayla to face her mother knowing that she was becoming very Ill. And the promise she made to her sister— she sighed internally, wanting this interaction over with as fast as possible. It wasn't as if she loved her mother less than before, but it was hard to spend time with her knowing how much pain she was trying to hide from her and her twin.
Hermione didn't dare ask her father but she knew it couldn't have been good when she caught her father sobbing in his office a couple of nights ago and she didn't have the courage to inform her sister about what she saw. She had never seen her father drink himself into a stupor.
Everything in her home felt stilted and fake as if nothing was wrong and she was angry. Angry at her mother for hiding her illness; angry at her father for thinking they were incapable of handling the truth; angry at Ava for wanting to be clueless and angry at herself for making that promise to her sister.
"Switch!" Ava called out, yanking Ayla back and quickly replacing her.
Rolling her eyes, she turned to her father with a sad smile. "You'll miss me, yeah?"
Her father chuckled, pulling her to his chest and holding her snuggly against him. "Watch your sister, Ayla, and remember to have fun."
Nestling her head against his chest, Hermione deeply inhaled the cinnamon scent that she came to familiarize with her father and held him a little tighter.
Sighing, she pulled back and nodded. "Watch Ava and have fun. Got it."
"And study for your exams and excel in your classes." Her father added with a chuckle."
Hermione rolled her eyes playfully. "Obviously."
"Let's go," Ava said excitedly, bouncing on her heels. "I've just spotted Sirius and I want to sit with him."
Nodding, Hermione quickly gave her parents one last hug and a goodbye wave as she boarded the express and was immediately knocked down.
"Watch it!" Ava snapped, helping her sister to her feet.
"Oh, I'm sorry— wow, twins."
Dusting off her robes, Hermione rolled her eyes. "A bit slow, aren't you?" She sneered, pushing her sister's hand away, turning her way and softly whispered, "I'm fine."
"I really am sorry," said the boy sheepishly.
Sighing, Hermione glanced up and caught herself from gasping at the sight in front of her. Harry's dad. With his wild black hair and his rectangular glasses— She'd recognize that face anywhere. But this boy, he didn't carry such burdens as her friend had and he seemed so carefree and happy. Hermione had never seen her friend look so… uplifted? Brighter? Content? Whatever it was, his jovial face caused an ache in her chest and she needed to get away. Right this instant.
"It's fine," Hermione cleared her throat, taking a step back, unable to look his way any longer.
"Here, Ayla, your glasses."
Quickly, Hermione grabbed her glasses and placed them on her face, smiling at her sister. "Thanks. I'll see you later, yeah? I'm going to find Rosetta and Phillipa."
"Okay," Ava uttered nervously, side eyeing the boy with suspicion and then realisation finally dawned. She turned to her sister and threw her arms around her, hugging her closely. "I'll see you later."
Hugging her twin back just as fiercely, she pulled away with a small smile. Glancing between the two, Hermione lifted a brow and quickly left, relieved to be out of the boy's company. That was not how she imagined she'd meet her best friend's dad but it could have been worse than that, she guessed.
Rolling her eyes, Hermione continued to walk down the aisle of the train, her trunk levitating behind her, ignoring the other children chatting excitedly and their laughter trailing behind her, as she ignored it all. Finally, finding an empty compartment towards the back of the Express, she dropped her trunk and kicked it underneath her seat.
Grabbing her satchel, she placed it on her lap, yanking it open, and blew out a relieved breath once she spotted her beaded bag exactly where she had stashed it. Pushing that to the side, Hermione grabbed the book on Familial Bonds & Blood Rituals.
Sucking in her bottom lip, Hermione traced the cover with appreciation and quickly placed it back in her bag. She then took out Hogwarts; A History and flipped it to the first page.
"Do you mind?" A timid voice came from the door.
Glancing up, Hermione smiled and was about to reply when Uriah Avery, Rosetta Greengrass and Phillipa Parkinson came bustling in.
"Find another compartment, worm."
Snapping her book shut, Hermione narrowed her eyes at Phillipa. She would not deal with bullies this time around. It didn't matter if she had to fake her way in with the Slytherins, they would learn soon enough that she did not play when it came to bullying other students from other houses.
They obviously lacked tact because Slytherin house was not known for spoiled prats and hooligans— they were a group of ambitious, clever, resourceful and determined people and they would not face unfairness from the other houses because of their need to feel superior all the while dishonouring her family name.
"Now, 'Lipa," Hermione began with a sweet smile, "that is not how your mother raised you, is it?"
Phillipa opened her mouth and quickly shut it, giving Hermione a shake of her head as her eyes widened in embarrassment.
"I didn't think so." Hermione turned to the boy and smiled. "Of course, you can sit with us."
"No, no," the boy backed up with wide eyes. "I'll find somewhere else to sit."
Blinking slowly with a dumbfounded expression, she wondered who he was and figured she'd find him later and formally apologise to him about her friend's behaviour.
Hermione sighed as she put her book away, lifting a brow as her friends situated themselves.
"How was your summer then, Ayla?" Avery asked with a smile. "We missed you at Malfoy Manor for those ghastly dance lessons that took place the last week of July. Thank Merlin it was the last, too."
Hermione tittered with a shake of her head. "Father had business in France."
"Lucky!" 'Setta cut in with a pout. "Did you happen to bring anything back for your best friend?"
Feigning a look around the compartment, Hermione furrowed her brows. "I didn't know Reggie started school with us this year?"
Avery cut in with a laugh. "How you're close to that boy, I'll never know."
"Well, he is handsome, isn't he?" 'Lipa added with a shy smile. "More so than Sirius."
"Obviously." 'Setta agreed.
"Please, no." Avery whined, "no boy talk, please."
Hermione stared at Uriah, his comment bothering her. Why would he say that about Regulus? Did they not get along? She'd admit that Reggie was shy and didn't really talk to anyone unless it was her or Sirius— not even Ava had had a conversation with him but he was kind and gentle and Reggie. He didn't deserve to be thought of as a joke or someone to hate or be embarrassed about.
Unable to let it go, Hermione blurted, "and what's wrong with befriending Reggie, Avery?"
Staring at her in confusion, he blinked and said, "because he's a year below us?"
Now it was her turn to be confused. "And what does that have to do with anything?"
Avery cleared his throat as he kept glancing at the door. "It's nothing, Ayla. Where's Ava, then? I haven't seen her."
Her eyes narrowed in suspicion, she didn't have a chance to reply as Eli Mulciber burst into the compartment completely out of breath.
"Merlin," he breathed heavily, lifting his trunk and placing it on the rack above the seats. "My mother wouldn't let me go until she made sure I knew my duties towards my intended." He made a face as he sat down. "Ugh."
Keeping her eyes on Avery, she watched him glance away with relief that the attention was off of him and Hermione found his behaviour quite sceptical— or maybe she was just making a big deal out of nothing. Still. She hadn't appreciated his remark about Reggie as it still grated her nerves— as if he wasn't worth being friends with; as if he was contaminated.
'Setta cringed as she slowly sank in her seat. "Let's not talk about that, thanks."
'Lipa tisked. "If anyone should be bothered about their betrothed, it's me." She crossed her arms over her chest and puffed out a breath. "It's ridiculous."
"'Lipa," 'Setta hissed, glancing around before she sat up straight, her ankles crossed and with her hands folded in her lap, as if she suddenly expected her mum to materialize out of nowhere. "You shouldn't say things like that."
"Whatever, 'Lipa muttered, turning away from the group as she rested her back against the cushioned seat.
Hermione turned her attention out the window, watching as the Express was finally pulling out of the station and away from the platform.
There was so much going through her mind at the moment and she needed a minute to sort them out. She hadn't known about her friend's betrothals and their resentment of them. Maybe she could use that to her advantage to win this lot over? It seemed a bit cruel but Hermione was desperate to work with anything that was thrown her way at this point.
Pulling out her book once again, Hermione resumed her reading of Hogwarts; A History and noticed the others had pulled out their own books to entertain them.
She hoped Cissa didn't search for her because she really wasn't in the mood to converse with others just yet.
Lifting her book to hide her smirk, Hermione tamped down the feeling of excitement; The waiting was finally over.
_
September 1st, 1971
Pansy's smile widened once she found Sirius and nodded her head in thanks as he helped her with her trunk.
"What took you forever?" He asks impatiently, his grin so huge, it was impossible not to grin back, as he glanced behind her, his expression changing into one of a frown. "Where's Ayla?"
Shaking her head, Pansy answered, "she's with Rosetta and Phillipa."
Settling into her seat while Sirius placed her trunk on the rack above, with her satchel placed to the side, Pansy glanced up and smiled that suddenly dropped at the boy in front of her.
"James Potter," the boy introduced with a smirk. "You've run off and I haven't had the chance to introduce myself."
Sirius sat beside her and grinned. "This is Ava Shafiq." He then nodded to the boy with light brown hair, sitting next to James, "and that's Remus Lupin."
When had Sirius met James bloody Potter? Surely it couldn't have been that fast?— she had just left him ten minutes ago. And Remus Lupin? She didn't think they'd have met him yet or maybe she was being paranoid? But what about? They were here to change things for the better, right?
Pansy smiled at both a bit tensely. "Pleasure."
Turning to Sirius, Pansy squealed, throwing her arms around the boy, hugging him tight. "I can't believe we're finally here!"
Patting her back and chuckling, Sirius pulled back with a dashing smile, "how long have we waited for this?"
Pansy snorted out a laugh, a snort that would have her mother flabbergasted, as she relaxed back in her seat, "too long, I'll say."
"How do you two know each other?" Remus asked quietly, his voice soft and gentle.
Turning to the boy, Pansy took her time staring at him; his clothes were crumpled and a bit too big on him; bright green eyes that were so light, they seemed almost translucent; and there were faint scars on his face that caused an ache in her chest.
This poor, poor boy, Pansy thought as she smiled softly at him. She remembered the stories her sister had told her about Remus Lupin and decided right then and there that she would be sorted with these boys just to be there for Remus. Of course, Sirius was reason enough but Remus— she wanted to wrap him up in her arms and never let go until he felt warmth and love and friendship.
Her sister had also told her how Remus had never stood up to the others, afraid they would stop being his friend because he was a werewolf. She refused to let him feel like that. It was going to take time but now, she had all the time to help him through his troubles and maybe embrace them instead of fearing them? She wouldn't get her hopes up just yet but just staring at him… she wanted to cry.
No boy, child, should ever feel so alone and afraid. No child should feel like the world was desolated and rottened. He needed to know that there was hope and light and kindness.
And she would provide that for him.
"Ava," Sirius ventured with a hint of annoyance in his voice. "He asked you a question."
Scowling at her friend, she turned to Remus and replied, "we've known each other since we were in nappies."
Sirius barked out a laugh and added, "those holiday balls and awkward dinners."
"Dance lessons and etiquette with Melania Malfoy?"
Sirius shivered, "don't remind me."
"And," Pansy continued with a soured face, "birthday parties were the worst."
James lifted a brow. "Sounds boring."
"It was," Pansy and Sirius answered simultaneously, causing both eleven year olds to burst into laughter.
"Thank goodness my parents don't force me into stuffy things like that," James said proudly, puffing his chest a bit.
Pansy scoffed with a roll of her eyes. James Potter seemed a bit arrogant, didn't he? "Why is that?" She questioned with a lift of her brow.
"James' mother is Dorea Black," Sirius answered with pride. "I met her in Diagon Alley and she put mother in her place." He turned to Ava with wide eyes. "It was wicked, Ava, I wished you could've seen mother. Her face was red with fury!"
Blinking in shock, Pansy turned to James. "Brilliant."
Of course, she knew that. What she didn't know was James to be… extra. He definitely carried an air of swag around him, something that his future son didn't have. But in his eyes, she could see kindness in them, something that his future son did inherit.
Before James could reply, the compartment door swung open, revealing a small little boy with dirty blonde hair.
"I—I'm sorry," he stuttered, looking about with wide eyes. "Do you mind—" he stopped, staring at Ava with confusion as he turned to look outside the hall of the express and back to them. "How—how did you get here so—so fast?"
Confused, Pansy shook her head. "I don't think I understand?"
"I—I just seen—seen you—"
"That's Ayla," Sirius piped in with a smile. "This is Ava, her twin."
His eyes widened in terror as he began to shake his head.
"You could come in and sit if you want," James said slowly. "We have room."
The boy nodded, sliding his trunk underneath the seat and taking a spot next to James.
Watching as the boy glanced around the group nervously, Pansy pursed her lips, refusing to speak. She had a feeling and it wasn't a good one.
"Your—your sister is scary."
Lifting a brow, Pansy said, "I find it hard to believe that she was rude to you without even knowing you."
"Oh, no—no," he shook his head fast. "Not me. Some—someone else."
"Ah," Sirius chuckled. "Probably Phillipa. She's the worst when it comes to outsiders."
"True," Pansy agreed with her own chuckle.
James shrugged. "I like her."
Sirius and Ava stared at him as if he'd grown two heads.
"You don't even know her," Sirius scoffed with a roll of his eyes. "Trust me, mate, this one," he threw an arm over Pansy's shoulder, "is the better sister."
"Hey!" Pansy snapped, shaking his arm off. "That's my twin, Black."
"And I love you both, dearly," he responded with puppy dog eyes as he put his arm back around her shoulder. "But Ayla could be—"
"Scary," the small boy whispered with wide eyes.
Barking a laugh, Sirius nodded in agreement. "Oi, we don't know your name." He stuck his hand out for the boy to take, "Sirius Black, at your service."
"James Potter."
"Remus Lupin."
Pansy stared at the boy, the feeling of dread overwhelming her, hoping her intuition about who this was, was completely wrong. She didn't think she was ready to meet him yet but she let out a heavy sigh as he spoke with a smile.
"Peter Pettigrew."
For what it was worth, Pansy really did try to control her features but it was hard as her nose scrunched in disgust, automatically, her eyes filled with hatred on behalf of her sister, and the way she flinched from his offered hand— she was a terrible actress, wasn't she?
"Ava?" Sirius asked, worriedly, staring at her as if she'd lost her mind.
And maybe she had because, honestly, what excuse could she come up with to explain her behaviour? Ugh. She really did bungle things up, didn't she?
Clearing her throat and giving a shaky laugh, Pansy scratched the back of her head. "I am so sorry, Perry—"
"Peter…" Remus corrected with furrowed brows and narrowed eyes.
"— but I swear I just saw a spider by your— oh! There!" Pansy quickly jumped up and rushed towards the compartment door, ignoring the frenzy behind her as she shut the sliding door with a bang and began to search for her sister.
"Ava!"
Ignoring Sirius as he continued to call out her name, Pansy rushed into the loo and slammed the door, locking it for good measure.
"Oh, Merlin, I fucked up," she breathed out, running her fingers through her curls. "Oh, way to go, you, stupid, stupidarse." She turned, facing the locked door as she began to bang her head against it.
"Stupid, stupid, stupid."
"Ava," Sirius' calmly called out, his voice muffled by the thick door between them. "I can hear you and I don't think your stupid. Not at all— in fact, I think you're pretty amazing. Open the door, will you?"
"Give me a minute, Siri," Pansy replied with a strangled voice. "Can you do me a favor?"
"Of course."
"Find me sister, please?" Ava asked, feeling overwhelmed with anxiety. "I need her."
Sirius was quiet for a moment before he agreed, Pansy letting out a heavy sigh as she slowly turned her back against the door and slid down until she was sitting.
Her knees pulled to her chest, Pansy covered her face and cried; cried for not being able to play her role; cried for her old life before it was ruined by that mad man; cried for her mother and father; cried for her sister who would have to face the danger head on. She cried and couldn't seem to stop.
Pansy wasn't an idiot, she knew her mom was ill; she knew her father was struggling; she knew her sister was angry with her and it was all because she couldn't face her problems. She didn't want to admit to any more complications in her life that would cause drastic changes. Admitting meant coming to terms with everything around her and she just wasn't ready for it.
Some future Gryffindor she was when all she wanted to do was hide from the world and take her family and hide them as well from the wickedness that would probably end them all.
How could facing Peter fucking Pettigrew have turned her into an emotional mess? That fucking—
"Ava, open up," her sister ordered, her voice concerned.
Wiping the tears from her eyes, Ava quickly stood and turned to let her sister in, confused by the crowd behind her.
"Siri, you didn't have to—"
"Save it, Ava," he cut in, irritation clear on his face. "You don't get to run off without an explanation."
Ayla whipped her head towards the boys with a glare. "Shut it, Siri," she snapped, "she can do whatever she likes and if I find out one of you," her glare turned to the three boys behind Sirius, "caused this, I will curse you."
"We didn't doanything!" James defended vehemently, his glare matching her sister's. "It was the spider!"
"Calm down, Ayla," Sirius asserted placidly. "It's all a misunderstanding."
Ayla snorted, "my twin crying in the bathroom is a misunderstanding?"
"Well," Remus spoke up, his voice oh, so quiet and gentle. "She kind of lost it after Peter introduced himself?" He looked down, embarrassed, as everyone stared at him. "Or maybe not, I don't know."
From Sirius, with a scoff: "Don't be ridiculous—"
From Pettigrew, his eyes wide in horror: "What—what did I—I do—"
From Ayla, her voice shrill and angry: "Peter Pettigrew—"
From James, exasperated, as he threw his hands up in the air: "It was a spider!"
Pinching the bridge of her nose, Ava sighed heavily, ignoring everyone as her sister continued to bicker with the boys. This was all her fault because, as usual, she held it all in until she lost her cool and everything just came tumbling out.
Breathing out a frustrated sigh, Ava looked up, glancing at everyone that was worried about her. Grabbing her sister's hand, she pulled her into the loo and locked the door.
"Give me five minutes, Siri, and I'll come out!" Ava informed him. "I just need a word with my sister."
"Five minutes!" Sirius yelled back, banging on the door for good measure. "And then I'm blowing the damn thing apart!"
"Siri? Sounds girly," James commented.
"Oh, naff off." Sirius growled, "and no, you cannot call me that..." their conversation slowly fading as they walked back to their compartment.
Turning to her sister, Ava sighed. "I'm sorry—"
She squeaked as her sister quickly pulled her into a hug. "There's nothing to be sorry about. It's all my fault. I haven't been asking how you've been handling everything and we haven't talked in awhile about our mission, not to mention what's happening at home— oh, Ava, I am so sorry—"
"Don't be," Ava interrupted with a sob on her lips. "You have important things to worry about as well and I'm just overreacting because of Peter—"
Pulling away, Ayla shook her head. "Don't ever think that your worries, your problems, your thoughts, are any less than what we're about to pull off, Ava. What bothers you, whatever you're going through, I'm here for you. You will always be my number one priority above everything else.
"If you can't face Gryffindor alone, I will be there with you and we can still take care of Tom and destroy him. You can even come to Slytherin with me if that's also what you want. It doesn't matter, Merlin, we can forget about it all and just live our lives the way Severus wanted us to— but whatever you're going through, emotionally, physically, whatever it is, that's what's important."
Sobbing into her sister's shoulder, Ava nodded, pulling her twin closer to her than physically possible. She hadn't a clue why she was starting to feel like this but hearing that her friend, her sister, her twin, would always be there made her feel appreciated; made her feel loved; made her feel important.
Was this what friendship was? True friendship? Is this what her sister wanted her to feel, to experience? Ava knew she would always hold a special place in her heart for her old friends— for Draco and Daphne, Theo and Blaise, Tracey and Milly. But their friendship wasn't like this. They didn't give their all without a price. They didn't declare words of love, it was always about upholding their prestigious family and keeping their line pure.
But this— Ava could get used to this. She could put her trust in her sister wholeheartedly and know that she would always be safe.
As her tears slowly trickled to a stop, Ava pulled away and gave her sister a nod and a wobbly smile. "Thank you."
"Always, Ava. Always."
"I'm okay," she confirmed with a solid nod. "I'll be okay."
Ayla wiped her tears with a smile. "Do you want me with you when—"
"No, no." Pansy cut in with a shake of her head. "I think I just needed to have a good cry and.. to hear that."
"You don't have to—"
"I think I'm going to be okay, Ayla." Ava cut in once more, her voice more confident than it had been before.
Ayla gave her a calculated stare and slowly nodded. "I know you will be." She then smiled, "you're a Shafiq, after all."
Throwing her head back, Ava let out a laugh. "There is that."
Silence filled the room.
Ayla grabbed her hand, squeezing it reassuringly. "Are you sure you'll be alright?"
"Yes," Ava confirmed. "Now, go."
Pursing her lips, her sister gave her one more hard look before nodding and giving her a quick peck on the cheek. "You know where to find me."
Ava watched her sister slip out of the bathroom and let out a deep breath.
Looking down, Ava slowly fixed her robes, a small smile on her lips.
Everything was going to be okay.
There were still issues she needed to work through; demons she needed to fight on her own but now, knowing that she really wasn't alone, she felt a heavy load lifted from her shoulders, making it easier for her to breathe.
Exciting the loo, Ava found her way back to her compartment.
Slipping inside, she smiled at the boys, no, her friends, ready to explain her tantrum.
Everything was going to be okay.
. . . .
"And what house do you want to be sorted into?" Sirius asked, pushing the wrappers around him onto the ground causing Ava to glare at his messiness as she picked them up and slammed them onto his lap.
"Don't do that, Siri," she snapped, ignoring his groans of pain.
"Gryffindor, of course!" Answered James, his mouth full.
Ava rolled her eyes at him and his despicable manners, as he quickly shoved the chocolate frog into his mouth before it hopped away.
The five of them had bought a lot of sweets from the trolley and were currently stuffing their gobs as if there were no tomorrow— well, Sirius and James were.
"Honestly," Ava hissed, disgusted. "Were you all raised in a barn? Where are your manners?"
"I think Ravenclaw would be nice," Remus thought aloud, picking through the sweet stash for all the chocolates.
Ava smiled at him, remembering to store away his love for chocolates so she could always supply him with some in the future.
"Gryffin—gryffindor sounds nice," Peter added with a squeak.
Refraining from rolling her eyes, Ava quickly shoved a Fizzing Whizzbees into her mouth, from saying something rude, quickly grabbing onto Sirius as she began to float.
"Nice?!" James shouted, a bit maniacal. "You mean bloody awesome!"
Chewing carefully, Ava said, "I think Ravenclaw would be nice as well."
"No, no, no," James tisked, crossing his arms over his chest. "I think it would be best, for all of us, mind you, if we're all sorted into Gryffindor."
Chancing a glance at Sirius beside her, she could see his thoughts playing out and knew he would try to get sorted with this lot— knowing how his family would react but not giving a damn because he found friends. Even though he hung out with all the other pureblood boys, Ava knew it was stilted and forced; but looking at him now, how he was around James and Remus… She knew he felt free.
"You know," Ava began slowly, grabbing Sirius' hand and smirking at him. "He might be right."
"He is?"
"I am?"
Ava and Remus, Peter as well, began to laugh as they replied simultaneously.
"Yes," Ava quickly agreed. "Us being together in one house?" She lifted a brow, "could you imagine?"
"Exactly!" James shouted enthusiastically. "It would be wicked!"
Before anyone could respond, the compartment door slid open, revealing a red headed girl who seemed a bit frantic.
"I'm sorry," she uttered, panic-stricken, reminding her a bit of another witch from her previous life, "but have you guys seen a toad, a boy named Frank has lost his familiar."
Ava blinked, a feeling of dé·jà vu slamming her full force. Wasn't Hermione looking for a toad? Or was it a cat? She couldn't remember but it was eerily similar if a bit odd.
But she knew for certain that this was Lily Evans. She remembered Hermione's description of the witch and her eyes… They were just like Potter's. Vibrant emeralds glittering with excitement.
"Er—" James shook his head, "no?"
"Ugh." She closed the compartment door with a bang. "Thanks for nothing!"
Taken aback, Ava shared a look with Sirius and said, "that was a bit rude."
Sirius shrugged. "She looks like she was in a hurry, so, who cares?"
"Are you serious right now?" Remus asked with lifted brows.
Ava rolled her eyes, pinching her nose, knowing what was about to come.
"That's my name, mate, don't wear it out, yeah?"
The boys ruptured into manic laughter, causing her to roll her eyes. Boys. It wasn't even that funny, Pansy thought, as she waited for their laughter to subside.
Bringing her hand down from her face, Ava glanced back at the door. Severus. He was here. How could she forget about him? Quickly standing, Ava rushed out, feeling the urge to just see him, if only for a moment or a simple glance."I'm going to help her."
"Ava, no, please don't." Sirius pouted, pulling her back down, and at her glare, he quickly cleared his throat, his hands up in surrender. "Or I can help you?"
"Thank you," she smiled sweetly.
"Oh, come on!" James complained. "Do we have to?"
Turning to the spectacled boy, Ava shrugged her shoulders. "You don't have to do anything but with Siri, he has no choice."
"Can I not have a choice, too, then?" James asked with furrowed brows. "I want to be like Sirius."
Scoffing, Ava crossed her arms over her chest, about to give him a piece of her mind, needing him to know that it always wasn't about him, but of course, Sirius had to butt in with his hubristic attitude.
"Of course, you do, mate." Sirius smirked. "I'm amazing."
Well, damn, Ava thought with a groan, as James was the only one to laugh aloud, Sirius and James really were meant to be friends.
"Oh, Merlin," Remus cut in with a look of disbelief, glancing at Ava. "Is he always like this?"
"If you mean brilliant and beatifically handsome?" Sirius ran a hand through is black locks, "then yes, I am."
"I don't think he—he meant that," Peter whispered, his expression one of confusion. "I think he m—meant conceited."
Ava couldn't help it, she burst into a fit of giggles, shaking her head as she stood up, inching towards the compartment door. "That was funny, Percy—"
"Peter," Remus sighed, sinking back into his seat with a pout.
"—but I need to catch up with that—"
"Girl with a blotchy face and an attitude?"
"—witch before she gets too far." She finished, ignoring Sirius' rude comment.
Sliding the door open, she gasped as she was abruptly knocked back, Sirius quickly catching her before she made contact with the ground.
"What the hell?!" He growled, looking at the culprit with anger in his eyes. "What's your problem, mate?"
Tears welling in her eyes, Ava looked up into the angry scowl of her best friend from another life, his eyes gleaming with disgust as he curled his lip at her.
Severus, Ava thought with a pang of sadness, no.
"Keep my friend's name out of your mouth," he snapped, baring his teeth.
"I—" Ava began, but was stopped as James stood up, his face red with anger.
"You watch it, you greasy git!"
Oh, no. Ava quickly stood, ready to put an end to this animosity.
"'Girl with a blotchy face and an attitude'," he mocked, scoffing. "I heard you and I will not—"
Sirius pushed Ava behind him into James' arms before he pushed Severus out of their compartment, the latter falling into the wall behind him. "Obviously you didn't hear anything, you foul, hooked nose ninny! She was about to help your friend search for that damned toad!"
Ava watched as Severus quickly adjusted himself, scowling at them all and hissed, "she doesn't need help from the lot of you."
And with that, he threw them one last sneer and walked off, leaving everyone in the compartment speechless and appalled.
"What the bloody hell just happened?" Sirius snapped out, shocked.
Ava sighed as she sat back down, blinking rapidly to keep the tears at bay.
She'd made an enemy of her best friend.
_
September 1st, 1971
"Ride with us?" Avery asked, scratching the back of his neck as he glanced around. "Unless you want to ride with your sister? I mean, she's already in a boat with Sirius and—"
Chuckling softly, Ayla smiled, "get in already, Avery."
"Yeah, okay. Yeah."
Sharing a look with 'Setta as she wiggled her eyebrows, Ayla ignored her with an eye roll and stepped in right after Avery.
He had been acting strange since they left the platform with his sneaky glances and his rambling— NO. Absolutely not. Sitting opposite of Avery with Eli to her left and 'Setta taking the seat across, Ayla narrowed her eyes at the wizard.
What was he playing at? Did he really suspect her to believe his little act of him actually fancying her like that?
That was a bit ridiculous considering their age.
As the boats took off, Ayla snorted at her inner amusings as she caught 'Lipa's eye across the water, rolling them with a sneer, who was sharing a boat with her older brother and his friends, her not having a choice in the matter. She couldn't blame her for looking so passive, Phillips's brother was a right troll.
"Ava seems to be cosy with Sirius' new friends," Eli commented with a sneer, bringing her attention to the wizard beside her.
Giving him a sideways glance, Ayla lifted a brow. "And what's wrong with that?"
Eli sputtered before shaking his head with a scowl. "She needs to stick with her own. So does Sirius."
"Oh?" Ayla stated with amusement. "And how is that any of your business, Mulciber?"
The boy curled his lip in disdain. "Because everyone knows that Potter is a blood—"
Quickly, too quickly for the others to see her, Ayla had her wand out and into her hand, jabbing the point into his throat. She smiled sweetly at him, her eyes burning with displeasure and lifted brow.
"Ayla…" Avery whispered in awe.
"Finish your sentence now, Eli." Ayla hissed, but her smile was still in place, just a bit more sinister.
Mulciber gulped, his own eyes narrowed but she could see the fear— feel it rolling off him in waves. "You wouldn't."
"You don't think I have the guts, is what you're saying?" She put more pressure on the wand for emphasis, never taking her eyes off the boy. "Say you're sorry." She smirked, "go on," she leaned in closer, "say it."
"What?!" He growled out, shaking his head. "Never."
Shrugging her shoulders nonchalantly, as she eased back a bit, Ayla said, "oh, well— densaugeo."
Quickly stashing away her wand, Ayla watched, satisfied, as Eli's two front teeth began to grow at an alarming rate, past his bottom lip, curling underneath his chin.
Oh, it felt good to cast that spell, having been on the receiving end many years ago.
"Ayla!" 'Setta shouted, jostling the boat as Avery grabbed her and held her down so they all wouldn't tip over and fall in.
"Stop," he hissed at her, his cheeks pink from, what? She hadn't a clue.
Mulciber began to babble, hiding his teeth, tears streaming down his face as he motioned for the other two to help.
"You ever discuss my sister, or Siri for that matter, again, I'll do worse than this, Mulciber." Ayla calmly stated with an air of finality. She then looked at the other two and lifted both brows. "Understood?"
"I would never," 'Setta vowed with unshed tears in her eyes as they continued to flicker between the wailing boy and Ayla in complete fear.
"Marry me," Avery whispered in astonishment, catching Ayla off guard. He then cleared his throat, turning away in discomfort. "Of course. Yeah, no, I won't."
As the boat made its way to Hogwarts across the Black Lake, Ayla rolled her eyes as Mulciber kept wailing about and pulled out her wand once more, waving a silencing spell at the imbecile.
She knew she shouldn't have— should've let the comment go and ignored him but after her conversation with Ava, she was a bit off balance at the moment and if she didn't nip it in the bud, it would have been way more difficult later on.
Everyone was going to know not to mess with her sister and Sirius.
"How are you so accomplished at casting spells already?" 'Setta asked, clearly unsettled by her magic. "I mean, a small Knox here and a Lumos there, sure, but that," she waved a hand, gesturing to Mulciber, and shook her head. "It's impossible for someone our age."
Facing 'Setta, Ayla smiled. "My father," she replied. "He had Ava and I go over the Hogwarts curriculum since," she blew out a breath, "before we could properly write our names." She chuckled softly. "He still thinks we'll be placed in Ravenclaw."
"That's amazing," 'Setta murmured, a bit dazed. "I wish my parents had done that."
"Are you going to fix him?" Avery wondered aloud, tipping his head towards Mulciber.
Glancing at him, Ayla shrugged. "No. I want him to remember this. Remember that if he even utters my sister's name with bad intentions I will be there to remind him what I'm capable of."
"Wicked," Avery breathed, his eyes a bit glazed over in wonderment.
Ayla cleared her throat, uncomfortable with his attention. Now that there are signs of his… feelings… she didn't know how to really react to it. She wasn't used to it at this age and it made her a bit queasy.
Turning away from her companions, Ayla smiled as they approached the castle. It felt comforting to know she was back home.
_
September 1st, 1971
"Now, when I call your name, you will come and be sorted into your house." McGonagall called out, peering over her glasses to narrow her eyes at the first years. "Very well."
Looking around the fist years, Ava spotted her sister a few feet in front of her and left Sirius' side to go stand by her. She needed her twin's comfort in case she lost her cool.
"Ava," Sirius whispered, giving her a confused look as she made to move forward.
Glancing over her shoulder, she nodded to her sister. "I'm going to stand with Ayla."
"I'll come," he stated, grabbing her hand.
"Me, too!" James announced with a beam.
Rolling her eyes, they made their way towards her sister and she immediately grabbed her hand, startling her before she turned and smiled.
"Are you ready for this?" Ava asked in a hushed tone, squeezing her sister's hand reassuringly.
"Of course, I am."
"Uriah, Avery!" McGonagall called out, her voice just as strict as it was before.
Ava snapped her head towards the boy standing by Ayla, catching the small smile he gave her, as he strolled towards the stool with an air of confidence. The hat barely touched his head before it hollered out "Slytherin!"
"Bones, Edgar!" McGonagall stated firmly, the eleven year olds watching as said boy stumbled towards the sorting hat.
"Honestly," Ayla whispered. "It isn't like he's about to die."
"Ayla!" Ava hissed, elbowing her. "Don't be rude."
Shaking her head, Ayla nodded. "You're right. I'm sorry."
Sirius snickered. "He is acting a bit mental."
"He definitely won't be getting into Gryffindor," James added, his whispering louder than normal as moved over to stand on her sister's side.
Honestly, was he even trying to whisper? Ava sighed, leaning forward to give James a bemused look. Not because of his whisper-shouting but because why did he move to stand next to Ayla?
"Black, Sirius!"
Before she could give it more thought, Ava glanced over, watching as Sirius tensed for a moment as he gave her a sideways look and nodding determinedly.
"Don't forget," he hissed before walking off, "Gryffindor."
"I won't," Ava shoved him forward. "Now, go!"
They watched in anticipation as Sirius sat on the stool, the hat placed on his head, covering the upper part of his face. Ava began to tap her foot as they continued to wait for the hat to blurt out his house.
"Gryffindor!"
The hall erupted into cheers, none louder than James as he hopped up and down in excitement, throwing his fist in the air.
"Honestly," her sister snapped, pushing James' arm off her shoulder. "You're acting like a buffoon."
James was obviously not bothered by her comment as he continued to cheer his mate on, flashing Ayla a smile.
And they stood there, watching as each student was sorted into their house; Rosetta followed Avery into Slytherin, while Lily went to Gryffindor. Of course, there were others who were sorted into the other houses, but Ava really didn't care where they went as Remus was sorted into Gryffindor. While Mulciber went to Slytherin, she watched Ayla lifting her brows at the boy, and him quickly looking away, walking to his table with his head down.
Interesting. She needed to remember to ask her sister what had happened between the two because it was obvious something had occurred.
James sauntered up to the hat and barely sat down as the hat hollered Gryffindor– the blacked haired boy taking a seat next to Sirius, Remus and Pettigrew across from the two.
"He's a bit friendly, isn't he?" Ayla commented, with a snort. "A bit too arrogant for my taste."
"Trust me, I know," Ava agreed.
Shafiq, Ava!"
Tensing as her name was called, Ava quickly turned to her sister, her eyes wide in panic. How did she not notice the other students between the letter P and S being sorted into their houses? Had she been that distracted?
"It's okay, Ava," her sister affirmed, nudging her forward. "It will be okay no matter what."
Taking a deep breath, Ava nodded and stepped forward, her bottom lip between her teeth as she hurried onto the stool. McGonagall swiftly plopped the hat on top of her head, blocking her view from the rest of the first years who had not been sorted yet.
"Well, isn't this a surprise."
"Gryffindor, please."
"Are you sure about that, Miss Parkinson, you would do lovely in Ravenclaw this time around, don't you think?"
Gasping, Pansy thought, "how do you know who i am?!"
The hat chuckled, the sound rebervating through her mind. "There isn't much you can hide from me, dear.
"You can't–"
"Oh, your secret, along with Miss Granger's, is safe with me."
Sighing in relief, Ava repeated, "Gryffindor, please."
"Well, if you are sure, better be Gryffindor!"
As the hat was swiftly pulled off, Ava beamed as she skipped her way towards the Gryffindor table, glancing over at her sister, who was clapping the loudest. She smiled, giving her a thumbs up as she took her seat between James and Sirius.
"Now let's hope Ayla gets sorted into Gryffindor," Sirius chirped with excitement. "Then we'll definitely be the best house and win the House cup!"
Ava sat down, leaning her head down on Sirius' shoulder. "Calm down, Siri," Ava said with a laugh. "She might not even get sorted into this house."
"But where else would she go?" James asked, with furrowed brows, as he pushed his glasses up his nose. "She has to be sorted into Gryffindor."
Lifting her head, Ava was about to answer until her sister's name was called. Tensing, she fully turned, watching her sister lifting her head, poised and calmed, as she sat on the stool. Even though they had a plan… her heart still sank as the hat called out Slytherin.
"What?" Sirius asked, shocked, as he watched Ayla walk towards the Slytherin table.
"Well, there's that," James stated with a sneer. He then narrowed his eyes at Ava. "Didn't know your sister was evil."
Ava jerked back, his anger and disgust startling her a bit. "I didn't know Slytherin was a house for evil witches and wizards. I thought they were for the clever and ambitious."
"James, mate," Sirius said, his voice strangled. "Watch it."
Scoffing, James shook his head. "Everyone knows that evil witches and wizards are sorted into Slytherin."
"And your mum?" Sirius snapped, anger rising in Ayla's defence. "Did you forget that she was sorted into Slytherin as well?"
James began to sputter, and took a deep breath, his emotions flickering across his face; anger, disgust, regret, resigned, sheepish, embarrassed. "I'm sorry," he apologised to Ava. "I shouldn't have said that."
Pursing her lips, Ava really wanted to keep the fighting up, just to throw it in his stupid face that his views were trash. She guessed that he had a point, albeit, barely, but not all Slytherins were bad just like not all Gryffindors were good. Cutting her eyes towards Peter, who was sitting across from them, she sighed.
And, without thinking, Ava threw arms over James, hugging him tightly, taking him by surprise as he slowly raised his arms to wrap around her. "I forgive you." She pulled away and smiled. "What? You said you wanted to be treated like Sirius?"
The boy in question began to laugh. "Yeah, whenever we get into a snit, I apologise and she hugs the shite out of me."
Thumping him on the arm, Ava hissed, "language."
"Whatever," he replied with a laugh.
Nodding vigorously, James gave her a smile and said, "Sounds good to me!!"
Shaking her head, a bit fondly, Ava smiled, glancing around the other first years who had been sorted into Gryffindor, ignoring the sorting as it continued behind her back. Remus and Peter were there, along with Lily and two other girls that she would be sharing a dorm with. There were also two other boys, bringing a total of ten first years sorted into Gryffindor.
Furrowing her brow, she glanced over her shoulder, searching for her sister at the Slytherin table and grinned once she spotted her sitting between Rosetta and Phillipa. She looked up, catching her eye and smiled back.
Facing forward, Ava looked down at her fingers, biting back the giddy feeling of happiness that surrounded her.
Everything was going to be okay.
_
A/N: Okay, so I messed this all up… *slaps forehead, I know. Ugh. — the first half of this chapter was supposed to be posted with the last chapter but I've posted an old draft that I thought I deleted. So this is all whacked. But the next chapter will have us back on track. Just thought I'd put this out there in case it confuses anyone because I've read over this & it confuses the hell out of me.
It took a while for me to figure out how to go about this & this was the outcome of my decision. Which still causes me to cringe every time I read it. LOL. Smh… hence the reason for the early post. I won't be posting back to back like this all the time, only when I feel like I've made a mistake and need to correct that.
It's important to the storyline and I couldn't just leave it out & I didn't want to have to go back & add the first bit to the last chapter, so here we are & I'm rambling.
Hope y'all are enjoying this so far!
Thank you so much for the favorites/follows/reviews!
Until next time!