Word Count: 389
Padma can't remember how long she's been in the library, staring at the book. Too long. The words seem to float in front of her, twisting themselves into strings of nonsense. Studying for her entrance exam to become an ambassador between wizards and various magical beings isn't at all like studying for one of Flitwick's exams. She can't remember the last time she slept for more than three hours.
"I thought you might need this."
Padma looks up, grinning at the familiar voice. Luna stands before her, holding out a cup of coffee. A quick sniff of the steam rising from the to-go cup confirms that it has cinnamon in it. Padma's favorite.
"Luna, you're my hero," Padma says, gesturing for her girlfriend to sit.
She doesn't know what she would do without Luna. Her studies have been hard, but Luna has stayed by her side, always offering her support and encouragement.
"Unpopular opinion," Padma says, sipping the coffee, "but coffee is better than tea."
Luna makes a face but doesn't argue. She just leans back in her chair and studies Padma with wide, curious eyes. "You're wearing the charm," she says.
Padma shrugs and lifts the silver chain, revealing the strange trinket Luna gave her for her eighteenth birthday. Luna says it keeps Wrackspurts away. Padma doesn't believe in them, but she keeps the necklace on because it makes her think of Luna.
"There are fewer Wrackspurts," Luna notes. "Have you found it easier to study today."
Padma nods. Truthfully, it's been about the same, but the way Luna smiles and looks pleased with herself warms her heart. How could Padma ruin it.
"Tomorrow is the big day."
Another nod. Padma feels her stomach tighten. "You're just in time to witness my mental breakdown." She tries to keep her tone light and teasing, but her voice cracks and betrays her nerves. "Merlin, Luna. I don't know if I can do this."
"You can," Luna says, and her tone is so matter-of-fact that Padma can't help but believe.
It's still terrifying. There's so much that could go wrong, and her doubts keep creeping into her mind, relentless and without mercy. But Luna makes it less scary. There's a soft smile and warm, dreamy eyes, and that is enough.
"Kiss me, just once, for luck?" Padma asks.
Luna smiles. "Happily."