Large hands carefully held the puppy that tried to bite at his hands, black eyes glancing fondly at the little fella as they moved through the thick woods of the Forbidden Forest. Hagrid did it every day, but it was Fluffy's first time and it was only natural for him to be a little uncomfortable. The forest was only comforting to those who lived within its protection of fear.
The faint clicking sounds became louder and louder, and Hagrid knew that he was getting closer. He treads this path every day, but the darkness meant that he was never truly certain about how far away from his destination he was. Any light from magic annoyed them, and Hagrid knew better. This was their home and not his, their comfort was more important than his.
He was just a visitor, and Aragog would never harm him. So he was as safe here as he was anywhere else. Except, perhaps, with the Slytherins. Never liked that lot.
Hagrid, the gravelly voice of Aragog greeted him. Have you brought us food, Hagrid?
He looked outraged, "Course not. I jus' wanted you to meet the little fella, see. I'm raisin' him in my hut! Thought you'd like a friend!"
Aragog's clicking increased and Hagrid smiled, seeing the sound as Aragog's acceptance and excitement instead of the frustration it was.
Do you remember what happened the last time you tried to raise something in your hut, Hagrid? Aragog queried, or anytime you tried to raise anything?
"But this time's different! Besides, look at this little fella! I couldn't jus' leave him there to die!" Hagrid said, a soft look growing in his eye, one that was incredibly familiar to Aragog – nearly the same as the one Hagrid had gifted Aragog with when they had first met.
If he were human, Aragog was certain he would be sighing. It would be okay if that were a normal dog, and not a magical one. Fang was a normal dog, and Aragog was fairly sure this puppy was the reason Fang wasn't accompanying Hagrid today. The dog was a coward but he had a good sense for when things were going to go wrong.
I suppose not, Hagrid, but perhaps inform the Headmaster. He may help with the magical dog's needs in the future. You will not be able to house the dog for long, Aragog said finally, hoping that Hagrid would follow his advice. He didn't want Hagrid to be imprisoned again because of his big heart and love for dangerous creatures.
Hagrid looked conflicted for a moment, before yelping as the middle head of the Cerberus managed to bite through his glove, drawing blood. Hagrid withdrew his hand quickly, looking at the Cerberus in disappointment.
"Bad Fluffy! No biting! He's usually friendlier than this."
The left head began growling, and Hagrid sighed, "I think he might be hungry again. I'm goin' ter have ter go back and feed him now. Bye Aragog!"
Goodbye, Hagrid. Be careful with the little one, Aragog called while Hagrid retreated from his sight.
Aragog was almost certain Hagrid was going to get into trouble again.
Written for Go Fish: Rubeus Hagrid