A/N: As you've probably noticed, I've changed the title to "Shadows", it's a hell of a lot better that "What If?" in my opinion. And I swear to God--if anyone at all criticizes me on the length of these drabbles I will beat you in to next bloody Thursday. They are called drabbles, people. They're supposed to be short.
Painted Black
"Oh, this is particularly difficult," The Hat hissed in his ear. "There's wit and intelligence, although your thirst for knowledge is somewhat lacking. I sense great courage, and loyalty, oh yes; a very admirable trait, indeed. But above all else... I sense great determination in you, lad. You strive to prove yourself, and are not afraid to make sacrifices along the way. I suppose you're a—SLYTHERIN!"
Sirius Black hopped off the stool, feeling numb as he trudged his way over to his new House table, feeling as if he were walking towards his own funeral. He noticed Narcissa and Bellatrix exchange approving glances. He looked over to the Ravenclaw table where he met Andromeda's eyes briefly, but she quickly looked away, a pink tinge creeping up in her cheeks. She was embarassed by him.
Mother and Father would be pleased. But was Sirius?
No.
He knew James, the boy he met on the train, would be a Gryffindor. He could tell. And obviously, Gryffindors and Slytherins did not fraternize.
A pale-looking boy with greasy hair and a rather large nose that was still waiting to be sorted gave Sirius a small smile. Maybe being in Slytherin wouldn't be so bad...
But a part of him had wanted to be different than the rest of his family. He sighed. Despite his previous beliefs, it appeared he was just another Black after all.