Dear Mum,
Hogwarts is probably the coolest place I've ever been. Everything is so magical and the teachers are really nice. Especially Professor Sprout. She's my Herbology teacher and the head of my house. I was excited to be in Hufflepuff. Really. The Slytherins do make fun of us a good bit for "being softies" and the Gryffindors say we're "push-overs" occasionally, but it's really okay. Did I mention my new friend, Cedric? He's really sweet and cute. He's been super nice to me. And you know Katelyn Swan, your friend Margaret's daughter? Well, she's in Hufflepuff too! It's all really amazing, Mum. Better than I would've thought. Tell Mel I can't wait for her to get here with me. I miss you all so much.
Love,
Marie
"I wish I was there with her, right now," Melanie pouted.
Eileen frowned. "Melanie, how many times do I have to go over this? You'll be there soon enough. Now help me with these dishes." Melanie rolled her eyes but rose from the kitchen table and went to help her mum.
Melanie had never been the jealous sort. Especially not of Marie. In fact, Melanie often felt sorry for Marie because she was often slighted in favor of Mel. People they met always gushed over Melanie's pretty features, her quick mind, and kind demeanor. Marie was plain and gawky, and not always the brightest bulb in the lamp. So, Melanie thought, I guess this is Marie's chance to shine. I'll let her have her fun.
She stood on the stool and scrubbed at a plate in her hands. She wondered what it'd be like to go to Hogwarts and learn magic. She imagined herself with a wand in hand, shouting all those spells, and having things happen because of it. She pictured herself simply pointing her wand at the dishes and having them be cleaned.
"Mel! Melanie Clare! Did you hear me?" Eileen asked impatiently, waking Melanie from her daydream.
"No, sorry Mum. What did you say?"
"You've been cleaning that one plate for several minutes, dear."
"Oh! I didn't realize," Melanie's face flushed with embarrassment as she put down that plate and picked up a bowl. She still had a long way to go before Hogwarts.
Author's note: So this was a bit of a filler chapter, sorry. Plenty of excitement in the next, I promise! ;)