Perched upon the pedestal, Gwen's gaze fixated on the grand contemporary oval mirror. With impeccable posture, she observed her maid, Irene, meticulously fine-tuning the gown her Father had commissioned. Gwen was always one to dress with utmost propriety, but this ensemble took it to another level. As she peered into the mirror, she couldn't believe the reflection staring back at her.
"Mistress, is something amiss?" Irene inquired, her eyes lifting to meet Gwen's.
Irene Montoya, a skilled French seamstress who had settled in bustling muggle London, was merely fifteen years Gwen's senior. Inheriting the family business from her mother and generations before, the Montoyas were known for producing talented seamstresses. Having graduated from the prestigious Beauxbatons Academy of Magic, Irene had ventured to London to establish her trade.
"How many times must I remind you to abandon such formalities? Are we not friends?" Gwen implored.
A smile played upon Irene's lips. "Indeed, you are right. However, it is only proper for me to address you as such."
"I had forgotten," Gwen mused, her gaze drifting downward. "Do you truly believe these people to be as cruel as they are rumored to be?"
Irene snorted, her attention returning to the hem she was diligently sewing. "To describe these families as cruel would be an understatement, if you ask me."
Though Irene had spent her earlier years in France before relocating to London, she had encountered enough of these families during her time as part of the upper class. This knowledge prompted Gwen to explain the urgency of the last-minute dress and her invitation to one of the Wizarding World's most eagerly anticipated events. The Sacred families had garnered a reputation, and unfortunately, it leaned more toward the negative.
Thoughts of Sirius instantly flashed through Gwen's mind as she contemplated the other families. Unbeknownst to her, a blush crept onto her cheeks, accompanied by a dreamy smile. Glancing into the mirror, Irene caught sight of the young Donoghue's flushed countenance, causing her own lips to curve in a smile as well.
"I'd like to believe that not all of them possess such unkindness," Gwen murmured softly.
Irene resumed her work on Gwen's ball gown, expertly adjusting the multiple petticoats and the bothersome hoop skirt. "Perhaps even these families are capable of change," she observed, her focus returning to the delicate stitches
"I will deliver them first thing in the morning for any last minute alterations." The young woman smiled, her dark hair moving with her as she used magic to clean up the area.
"Thank you once more," the young witch bid her good night as it was growing late.
Gwen sat in her window seat, captivated by the breathtaking sunset. Today was a special occasion, and she had taken great care in preparing herself. She indulged in spending more time than she would care to admit on her hair, finally deciding to leave it down and adding a touch of elegance with soft curls. However, the hoopskirt she wore made it impossible to sit comfortably, so she reluctantly stood up and made her way to the vanity, reaching for her delicate silk gloves.
Examining her reflection, Gwen hoped she looked every bit the aristocrat she was expected to be. Her dress, a deep cobalt blue, perfectly matched the intensity of her azure eyes. It boasted a square neckline and quarter-inch sleeves, with white lacing and shimmering silver gem accents sewn into the skirt. If she were to twirl, it would appear as though the night sky itself had descended upon her.
A gentle knock at the bedroom door interrupted her thoughts. Taking a deep breath, she softly murmured, "Come in," while picking up the small blue ribbon choker that completed her ensemble.
Turning to face the door, Gwen's eyes met her father's. He stood there in a traditional black and white suit, his cobalt blue tie a subtle defiance against the other families and their affiliation with the Slytherin colors.
"You look beautiful," he complimented, his voice filled with pride. Gwen smiled and replied, "Thank you, Father. I must admit, I'm feeling a bit nervous."
Closing the door behind him, her father crossed the room and knelt down before her. She wore an anxious expression, suddenly realizing that every move she made tonight would be scrutinized by everyone present.
"We don't have to go if you don't want to. I would be more than happy to spare you from seeing those families," her father offered, not wanting to pressure her into anything she wasn't comfortable with.
Gwen shook her head, taking a deep breath. "That's very kind of you, Father, but this is something I need to do. You won't always be there to protect me, and I have to learn to face them on my own once I come of age."
With a gentle touch, her father planted a tender kiss on Gwen's head, filled with pride at the maturity she had displayed since her mother's passing. As he stood tall, he looked down at her and placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "Your mother would be incredibly proud of the person you've become, despite everything that has happened."
A wave of warmth and happiness enveloped Gwen, her determination intensifying. "Those words mean the world to me," she replied, ready to face any challenges that lay ahead.
Declan extended his arm to Gwen, and she graciously linked hers with his, knowing that her decision marked the start of a new chapter in her life. It was a chapter that held both the potential for pain and the promise of growth, but she was prepared to embrace it wholeheartedly. Even if it meant walking into the Den of Snakes.
Taking a deep breath, she adjusted to the corset she wore beneath her gown. As her father led her towards the floo, he handed her a white fur-lined cloak, while he himself dressed in his elegant robes. Clutching a handful of floo powder, he stepped into the fireplace before her, and she followed suit, stating her destination.
Green flames erupted around her, and as they subsided, Gwen found herself face-to-face with her father, Declan, who wore a warm smile and extended his hand to her. Surveying the dimly lit corridor and foyer, she noticed their emptiness.
With the sound of her heels clicking on the polished wood flooring, Gwen followed her father towards the ballroom. The air resonated with the melodious tunes of the orchestra, vibrant chatter from the guests, and the clinking of goblets, no doubt filled with the finest wine from the Malfoy's curated cellar. The double doors to the ballroom loomed closer as they came to a halt before them. Casting a glance at her father on her left, Gwen offered him a subtle nod, acknowledging the pause for her sake.
With a wave of Declan's hand, the doors swung open as if by magic. Gwen took a final deep breath, allowing her father to take the lead as they stepped onto the balcony overlooking the ballroom. The room fell into a hushed silence as all eyes turned towards them, and people bowed and curtsied in her honor.
Her father handed her a goblet of sparkling cider, and she graciously accepted it. Surveying the candlelit ballroom, she silently counted to ten, a ritual to steady her nerves as her stomach twisted with anticipation. She delicately lifted her handkerchief to her mouth, clearing her throat.
Once again linking her arm with her father's, Gwen balanced her drink in her other hand, fully aware that she would spend most of her time mingling with other families. When everyone had risen to their feet, her father guided her down the grand staircase, where eager parents abandoned their previous conversations to seek her and her father's attention, their children in tow, pulled along by their arms.
Maintaining a calm composure, Gwen remained poised with her back straight and her chin held high, ready to greet every family member who was determined to meet her and earn her favor, hoping to align themselves with her prestigious lineage.
Although this party was being hosted by the Malfoy family, it was her family that mattered. Most especially her presence. Since her appereance in the Wizarding World, the press and magazine hadn't had a chance to take photos of her and publicize them.
After an hour of mingling and exchanging pleasantries with numerous families, Gwen discreetly excused herself from her father's side. He was left to handle the Macmillians, a newlywed couple who had tied the knot just a few months prior. Basil, the husband, seemed particularly nervous about impending fatherhood. Holding her goblet of sparkling cider, Gwen observed the couples gracefully waltzing across the dance floor. Their elegant gowns swirled, and the men's dress robes billowed behind them, creating a mesmerizing sight.
Unexpectedly, Sirius's voice whispered in Gwen's ear, causing her to startle for a moment. She swiftly regained her composure and turned around to find a grinning Sirius, donned in traditional dress robes.
Sirius dramatically bowed in front of Gwen, extending his hand with a wink. "I'm Sirius Black, heir of the Noble House of Black. It's a great pleasure to finally meet you, m'lady," he said, his grip on her hand both gentle and firm. He kissed the back of her hand, causing a blush to creep onto Gwen's cheeks from the unexpected display of affection.
"Pleasure to make your acquaintance, Mr. Black. I hope you enjoy the ball," Gwen replied, bowing her head slightly and offering him a sincere smile.
"You look beautiful, love," Sirius remarked, causing Gwen's blush to deepen.
"Thank you, Mr. Black. I must say, you look rather handsome in your dress robes," Gwen complimented him, feeling his warmth slowly seeping into her hand.
"Dare I say the princess is complimenting me?" Sirius dramatically gasped, placing a hand over his heart. "This is indeed a great honor."
"Princess?" Gwen questioned, unsure of what he meant.
Sirius gave her a funny look before relaxing his stance. "You don't know, love?"
"Know what?" Gwen's curiosity piqued.
"The families refer to you as the mysterious princess. No one has caught a glimpse of you, not even at your mother's funeral. Your father has kept you hidden from prying eyes," Sirius explained, a smile playing on his lips. They both noticed they were being watched and quickly acknowledged the onlookers.
"Sirius! There you are, my lovable son!" a shrill voice pierced through the air, making Gwen cringe inwardly. She concealed her discomfort, but concern crept in as she saw Sirius' smile vanish. His entire demeanor shifted, and his face turned stoic.
"Mother," Sirius responded, his words laced with coldness.
Gwen glanced towards the source of the voice to find a tall, rounded yet beautiful woman with high cheekbones. Walburga Black, Sirius' mother, bore a striking resemblance to her son. Her pale skin, dark eyes, and long wavy black hair, tied in a loose updo, added to her regal appearance.
"I was wondering where you had disappeared to," Walburga's high-pitched voice grated on Gwen's nerves. The older woman wore a feathered hat, holding her head high with a stiff laugh.
"Apologies, Mother. I was eager to see Miss Donoghue again," Sirius replied, the coldness in his tone still evident.
Walburga turned her attention to Gwen, faking a shocked expression as she smiled—a deceptive smile that made Gwen's skin crawl. Walburga curtsied, her gloved hands tightly gripping the gem-encrusted goblet.
"It's a pleasure to meet you, Miss Gwendolyn. Your beauty surpasses that of your mother," Walburga complimented, her words dripping with insincerity.
Gwen felt a large hand placed on her shoulder and glanced to her right. It was her father, Declan, coming to her aid. He nodded at her before turning his attention to Walburga Black, his indifference leveling her cockiness.
"Hello, Father," Gwen greeted, relieved to have his presence.
"How are you, my dear?" Declan asked before redirecting his gaze to Walburga.
"I'm quite alright, Father. Just catching up with Sirius before we were rather rudely interrupted by Mistress Black," Gwen replied politely, refusing to let Walburga's demeaning attitude affect her. "Here Mr. Malfoy had been complimenting the families for their impeccable manners."
The woman turned red. Either from anger or embarrassment or perhaps even both from the way she had insulted the older woman. She didn't care.
Declan raised an eyebrow and gave Walburga a blank stare. "Interrupting a conversation between two people is quite rude."
"Declan," Walburga sniffed, her sneer barely concealed.
"Warburga, you're looking…well something…this evening," Declan acknowledged, giving her a once-over. "Why don't we let the children dance while we catch up?"
Gwen appreciated her father's effort to rescue them from the uncomfortable conversation. Glancing at Sirius, she noticed his immediate brightening as he bowed and extended his hand.
"May I have the pleasure of dancing with you, Lady Donoghue?"
Feeling the weight of both her father's and Walburga's gazes, Gwen placed her hand in Sirius's and smiled. Gwen placed her delicate hand in Sirius's, a smile gracing her lips. As a lady, she knew better than to refuse a dance from a gentleman.
"The pleasure is all mine, Sirius," she replied, her voice filled with genuine warmth.
With a confident sweep, Sirius whisked her away to the dance floor, their bodies assuming the proper stance as a small orchestra started a slow waltz. Fortunately, Gwen was familiar with the dance, though a tinge of self-awareness gnawed at her. Her dancing skills were a touch rusty, in need of some practice.
"I'll have to thank your Father later," Sirius whispered in her ear, drawing her attention to the curious gazes fixed upon them. "My Mother can be quite zealous, you know."
Gwen couldn't help the tightening of her stomach. "Everybody is staring," she admitted, feeling a wave of nausea wash over her. The scrutiny of every step made her uneasy. But then, she blurted out, "You must be quite the dancer, Sirius."
He chuckled softly, his voice a comforting melody. "Trust me, dear, they're all staring at you."
Suppressing a quiet snort, Gwen replied, "My family's wealth and influence can't possibly be the reason for everyone's attention."
"Think again."
Gwen refrained from arguing, stealing glances at the intrigued onlookers. She realized they were one of the few couples dancing, gracefully following Sirius's lead. Having him there brought her a sense of happiness, knowing she had someone in the room who truly understood her. Not someone who saw her as a mere tool, but as a person.
They danced two more waltzes before Gwen requested a break. Sirius obliged, wanting to indulge in some chocolate truffles before finding his younger brother, Regulus. With a respectful bow, he handed Gwen over to her Father before disappearing into the crowd.
"How was your conversation?" Gwen asked, taking her goblet from her Father.
An irritated expression crossed his features as he finished his wine in one swift motion. "That woman was vexing in school, and she's still vexing now."
Gwen stifled a laugh behind her gloved hand. "I'm sorry to hear that, Father. But I'm grateful you gave me and Sirius a chance to escape," she expressed her appreciation. Witnessing Sirius turn into a zombie before her eyes had turned her stomach.
"Of course, I wouldn't leave you to the snakes" he replied quietly.
"I decided to meet the families because of some things I've heard at Hogwarts," Gwen murmured, her gaze fixed on the groups of people laughing and chatting around them. "I can't say it aloud, for fear of being overheard."
Declan nodded solemnly, aware that people paid close attention to them, even while engaged in their own conversations with other families.
"Of course."
As the ball neared its climax, Gwen had met several other families, patiently awaiting Sirius's return. She assumed he was either causing mischief or entangled in his Mother's clutches. Either way, she stood near the table adorned with various confections, holding a refilled goblet of her favorite sparkling cider.
Gwen felt tempted to escape to the gardens, feeling somewhat claustrophobic in the grand ballroom filled with aristocrats. She took a deep breath, suppressing her yawns, knowing the ball would soon conclude, allowing her to retire to bed. She hadn't anticipated that all this socializing would drain her, both physically and mentally.
"Miss Donoghue," a voice called, and Gwen turned to find Lucius, Narcissa, and an eccentric-looking woman approaching her.
"It's a pleasure to see you again, Mr. Malfoy, Ms. Black," she greeted them with a nod, her gaze lingering on the woman with wild curls, pale skin, and intense, almost black eyes.
"The pleasure is ours, Miss Donoghue," Lucius bowed, and both women curtsied.
"Likewise, Mr. Malfoy," Gwen replied, gesturing for him to rise. "I have yet to meet the host of the ball and thank them for my invitation. Do you know where your Father might be?"
"Complications arose causing him to leave suddenly," his smile faltered. The two young women exchanged looks. "I have come to greet you as host."
"Your Father has thrown a beautiful ball," she smiled. "You have been a most generous host as I do hope to see the other events that your family are known for."
He nodded, a smile tugging at his lips. "I actually came to personally invite you to attend the garden party my family is hosting between the second and third term in the spring."
"I would be delighted to attend your family's garden party," Gwen answered, her smile faltering momentarily. "As long as my Father is willing to accompany me. I believe he is engrossed in conversation with Mr. Orion Black," she indicated the tall man with black hair, pale skin, and dark eyes on the other side of the ballroom.
"How perfect," Lucius said, his smile tinged with a hint of grimace. He bowed once more before making his exit, accompanied by Narcissa and the enigmatic woman.
"That's quite impressive," Sirius remarked, approaching Gwen with a broad smile, a younger boy in tow.
"Doubtful. I simply asked him to seek my Father's permission," Gwen replied, turning to Sirius. "He is rather eager."
A smaller boy gazed at her with grey blue eyes from behind a grinning Sirius. His head full of dark chocolate curls falling into his face gave him a more boyish look.
"Hi there," she exclaimed cheerfully, her voice filled with warmth. "And who do I have the pleasure of meeting?" Her smile was genuine, hoping to ease any worries the boy might have had.
"Lady Donoghue, this is my little brother, Regulus Black," Sirius introduced, aware that his brother tended to be shy around imposing figures.
Gwen had heard about Sirius' younger brother, Regulus, who was only two years his junior. According to Sirius, Regulus was a quiet and timid boy. From what she had observed so far, it seemed that Sirius' description was accurate.
"Regulus?" Gwen said, catching his attention. He glanced at her briefly before looking back down at the floor. "It's nice to meet you, Regulus. Your brother has told me so much about you, including your love for Quidditch."
This seemed to put Regulus at ease, as he began to talk animatedly about the sport with great enthusiasm. Gwen listened attentively, failing to notice Sirius watching her with a soft expression as she interacted with his shy brother.
"You must be excited to see your brother after so long."
He enthusiastically nodded, his eyes growing wide with happiness.
"Sirius, would you be so kind as to refill my chalice?"
He nodded, "anything."
Seizing the opportunity she couldn't help but pry a bit into the younger Black Heir. "Eager to come to Hogwarts next year, yes?"
Regulus grinned, his teeth perfect and white. "I hope to become a Slytherin."
"My Father was a slytherin as well," she smiled down at him. "A great house for those with great ambition."
This caused the boy to become slightly flustered, "I want to play Quidditch."
"You share a great love of the sport with your brother," she paused. "Perhaps you could also join my family in the mock Quidditch game we are to play in two days."
This seemed to excite him.
"I would love to attend Gwen!" The boy blushed, frantically looking around the room.
"It's quite alright," she surmised. "You are my friend, you may call me Gwen."
He shook his head furiously, "if my Mother were to find out, she would be quite angry with me for showing blatant disrespect."
Gwen clicked her tongue. "Regulus, you may call me Gwen when it is just the two of us if it makes you feel comfortable. Your Mother is a vain woman with deeply rooted issues and could desperately use a calming draught."
"Thank you…Gwen."
"It'd be our little secret Reg," she ruffled his hair a bit just as Sirius returned with their drinks.
"What did I miss?"
Regulus just smiled even wider before shaking his head. This caused Sirius to turn to her, but she feigned ignorance and took a sip of her drink.
"It's almost midnight, I ask that everyone join us outside to see the fireworks." Lucius ' voice echoed through the room, prompting everyone to make their way outside, holding their goblets of wine.
Gwen took Sirius' offered arm and held onto Regulus' hand to ensure he didn't get lost in the crowd. Leading the trio outside, he positioned them at the back, offering a perfect view of the colorful fireworks that would soon light up the night sky.
"It was a pleasure to meet you, Lady Donoghue," Regulus stuttered, his gaze fixated on their joined hands. "If I may, I'd like to go back to my mother. She's probably looking for me."
Gwen bent down, patting his head affectionately with a warm smile. Kneeling beside him, she kissed the top of his head. "Thank you, Regulus, for keeping me company. I'd love to continue our conversation about Quidditch another time."
Regulus simply nodded, his face turning red, before quickly scurrying off, leaving Gwen and Sirius alone again. Standing up, she turned to a pensive-looking Sirius with a hint of confusion.
"Do I have something on my face?" Gwen reached up to her face with a gloved hand. "Is everything okay?" Sirius gently grabbed her hand and shook his head.
"Your complexion is as clear as the sky, meant to be admired," he said, his words dripping with sweetness. Gwen looked away, hoping he wouldn't notice her blushing or the embarrassment that engulfed her.
"My dear Sirius," she shivered slightly in the cold, "your words flow with such eloquence."
Sirius shrugged off his coat and draped it over Gwen's shoulders. Leaning down, he whispered in her ear, "In every form and under any circumstances, I am yours."
Gwen silently prayed that Sirius couldn't hear her racing heart or see the deepening blush on her cheeks. Sirius seemed about to say something when a high-pitched whistling noise interrupted them, shooting up into the sky. Seconds later, it exploded into a dazzling display of blues, reds, and golds, resembling falling stars.
"It is rather beautiful," she noted.
Sirius stared at her, watching as her eyes reflected the colorful lights. Swallowing rather painfully, "devastatingly."
The aftermath of the ball marked the start of feverish preparations for the much-anticipated upcoming party they were about to host. Excitement filled the air as her Uncle Liam and his lively clan, along with Uncle Fleamont and his own, were set to grace their humble abode for a few blissful days. Normally, these beloved relatives would only arrive a few days after Christmas, but this year was different. With her mother's untimely passing, they made the decision to share the joyous holiday with her father and herself.
The anticipation was building up as their family's arrival was scheduled for later in the afternoon. Shortly after, her friends would join in for the party at around 5 o'clock. In the meantime, she entrusted the diligent elves with the task of meticulously preparing the rooms to welcome their esteemed guests.
Interrupted from her engrossing book, she glanced up to find the female house elf standing before her. With a warm smile, she acknowledged her presence. "Thank you for the update. I assume James will be staying with him in the same room?"
The elf nodded eagerly, holding out a silver tray that appeared out of thin air, which held a handful of letters. "I have also brought you the morning post."
Grateful for the thoughtful gesture, she set aside her book and gathered the letters from the tray. "Thank you Minky, has Finky finished setting up the field for the mock Quidditch game?"
The elf snapped her fingers once more, causing the tray to vanish. "Finky is still in the process of setting up the field," she replied promptly. "Additionally, Minky has taken the initiative to prepare the gazebo for your enjoyment."
Her appreciation was evident, she expressed her gratitude. "Thank you for anticipating my needs and taking care of the arrangements for the ladies. It has slipped my mind to request your assistance."
The young elf couldn't contain her excitement as she beamed with joy. With a quick snap of her fingers, she vanished into thin air, accompanied by a whimsical "popping" noise.
As she carefully sifted through the stack of letters, her heart skipped a beat. It didn't take a genius to understand these messages were from the families she had met and conversed with the previous night. No doubt, they were filled with sentiments about her mother and welcoming her to the Wizarding World. However, one letter gave her pause - it bore the name Abraxas Malfoy.
With a determined grip, she reached for the slender, pointed letter opener adorned with delicate roses and shimmering sapphires. Disregarding the Malfoy seal, she swiftly sliced through the envelope. Retrieving the folded parchment paper, she quirked her eyebrow in surprise - the elegant handwriting of Abraxas Malfoy.
Dearest Lady Donoghue,
I write this missive to extend my deepest apologies for my absence and the missed opportunity to meet and greet you as planned. Please find it in your heart to forgive me, as urgent matters demanded my attention. It has come to my knowledge that my son, Lucius, may have offended you and your esteemed mother with his thoughtless remarks in his endeavor to impress you. I am truly sorry for his reckless behavior and I beseech you to pardon any offense he may have caused. He is still learning, and I hope that his transgressions will not dissuade you from attending future events hosted by our renowned family.
I do hope you have a wonderful holiday.
Sincerely, Lord A. Malfoy
Folding the letter and placing it back into the envelope, she finished up her tea that had gone cold. Picking up her book and letters, she left the home library and made her way towards her bedroom. Decorations flying around as their elves were chatting with one another and seemed to be almost finished setting up.
With her letters safely tucked away in the drawer, she decided it was time to change out of her comfy library pajamas. After a refreshing hot shower, she slipped into a vibrant red jumper and sleek black trousers. Using a nifty quick-drying spell, she gracefully tied her hair up and applied a touch of lip gloss she had picked up during her shopping spree in London.
Suddenly, a popping noise echoed through her room. "Your family has arrived," a voice announced.
She glanced at Minky, her loyal elf, through the reflection in her vanity mirror and flashed a grateful smile. "Thank you, Minky." In the blink of an eye, the elf vanished.
Swiftly, she slipped the lip gloss into her pocket and eagerly headed towards the door. It had been six long months since she had last seen her family, and the anticipation was overwhelming.
As she glided into the grand foyer, her eyes were immediately drawn to the familiar figures of her Aunt Euphemia and Uncle Fleamont. The house elves had efficiently taken care of their luggage, allowing them to eagerly embrace her upon her arrival.
"Auntie!" she cried out joyfully, rushing forward to envelop her beaming aunt in a warm hug. "Merry Christmas! How have you been?"
"Merry Christmas, my dear," her aunt replied with a twinkle in her eyes. "Having you here makes everything better."
Her aunt's once raven-black locks now showcased delicate streaks of silver, while her vibrant green eyes shimmered in the gentle glow of candlelight. After releasing her aunt, she turned her attention to her Uncle Fleamont, who chuckled as her enthusiastic embrace threatened to knock him off balance.
"Merry Christmas, Uncle!"
"Haha, I believe you've surpassed James in height now," he teased, playfully tousling her hair. With a smile, he released her, his own hair also graced with silver strands.
"Where is Jamie?"
"The boys dashed outside to the pitch as soon as they arrived," her aunt replied, a smile dancing on her lips. "That friend of his is just as energetic as Jamie himself."
Knowing that the two boys were brimming with excitement for the upcoming game, she couldn't help but smile as she leaned against one of the majestic stone pillars.
"Be careful not to slip and break something before Christmas!" she called out playfully.
Both boys paused their running, turning to face her with beaming smiles. James waved enthusiastically, but she couldn't help but notice how Sirius halted, his gaze lingering on her. In that moment, she couldn't help but feel a surge of warmth knowing that he found her captivating.
"Darling," Sirius finally spoke, his voice tinged with a hint of shyness.
"Hello, Sirius," she blushed, hoping it was merely the chill in the air that caused her cheeks to flush. "I'm thrilled to hear that you'll be staying for the next few days."
"I couldn't resist the opportunity to see you again," he confessed, his own cheeks rosy, his scarlet-red scarf hanging loosely.
"I'm about to indulge in some hot chocolate in the cozy parlor. Would you care to join me?" she invited, turning to head inside the manor. Suddenly, a yelp and the sound of hurried footsteps reached her ears.
"WHERE ARE YOU GOING, MATE?! WE'RE SUPPOSED TO PRACTICE!"
"Sorry, mate, but hot chocolate with your cousin sounds far more appealing than braving the cold with you!"
Suppressing her laughter, she continued her graceful stride indoors, knowing that Sirius would be trailing behind her like an eager puppy.
After her Uncle bestowed a warm hug and a tender kiss on her forehead, he retreated to the parlor where her Father and other Uncle engaged in lively conversation over drinks.
Her Aunt Maeve's face lit up with a radiant smile as she handed her a box of delectable chocolates, showering her with compliments and engaging in delightful conversation. Soon, her other Aunt joined in, skillfully wrapping the remaining gifts.
Meanwhile, Jack enthusiastically joined Sirius and James in a playful wrestling match in the living room. She, on the other hand, sought solace next to the crackling fireplace, immersing herself in the captivating world of Jane Austen's "Emma," a treasured gift she had just received.
Amidst the commotion, Jack paused, breaking away from the roughhousing to plop down on the couch beside her. With a mischievous smile, he teasingly remarked, "You've truly outdone yourself, becoming an even bigger know-it-all than before."
Suppressing a grin, she closed her book with a resounding thud and retorted, "Well, you've always been quite the imbecile. Speaking of which, I do have a question for you."
Leaning back, Jack poured himself a steaming cup of hot chocolate topped with a generous dollop of whipped cream. "I've got an answer for you," he declared, a twinkle in his eye.
Taking her time, she prepared her own cup, a mischievous glint in her eye. "My friend Toni mentioned her interest in that teammate of yours," she began, her voice filled with intrigue. "I believe his last name is Robinson, the blond lad."
Jack's face contorted into a grimace as he replied, "Are you telling me Antonette is interested in that loser Robinson?"
Suppressing a smile behind her teacup, she savored the moment before responding, "Yes, she and Jackie were discussing the most handsome Quidditch boys, and he topped their list."
Jack snorted, his gaze drifting toward the mesmerizing flames in the fireplace. "Oh, really? And did I make the cut?"
"You were number five," she revealed, unable to hide her amusement. "But since the girls already know which lads will be trying out next year, they're compiling a new list. You'll drop to number seven."
"Number seven?" Jack's tone reflected a mix of surprise and disbelief.
"James and Sirius will be joining, and they've snagged spots two and three," she explained, her voice dripping with mischief.
The revelation caught the attention of the other two boys, momentarily freezing their wrestling match.
"Do you have a copy of this list?" Jack inquired eagerly.
With a click of her tongue, Gwen reached for her wand and expertly cast a nonverbal spell, conjuring a parchment that bore the coveted list. Jack eagerly snatched it, scanning the names until he found his own at number five.
"Where's the new list?" he demanded.
In response, a fresh piece of parchment materialized before them, inciting a competitive frenzy as all three boys lunged for it, vying for possession.
"I'VE GOT THE LIST!" James triumphantly exclaimed, collapsing to the ground as James hastily retreated with the precious document clutched tightly in his hands. Adjusting his glasses, his eyes scanned the list before he scowled. "How did Sirius rank higher than me?"
All eyes turned to Gwen, who remained composed, silently sipping her hot chocolate.
"You'll have to wait until after the break for the final results. The list in your hands is incomplete," she revealed casually.
"I'm keeping this," James declared, a determined glint in his eyes.
She shrugged nonchalantly. "It's just a copy, so go ahead."
Arms crossed, Jack scoffed, "I can't believe Antonette would stoop to Jackie's level. Who even came up with this idea?"
Setting her cup down on the table, she dabbed her mouth with a napkin and placed it neatly on top. Rising from her seat, she turned toward the three boys, a mischievous grin spreading across her face. "That would be me."
With a burst of energy, she sprinted away, the three boys hot on her heels as they embarked on a wild chase around the house.
As Euphemia turned the doorknob, a vibrant redhead girl greeted her with a beaming smile. The girl donned a pristine white coat, a matching hat and gloves, and carried a bag brimming with beautifully wrapped gifts. The rosy hue on her cheeks hinted at the embrace of the chilly air.
"Hello, dear," Euphemia greeted warmly. "Are you one of Gwen's esteemed guests?"
"Yes, I hope I'm not too early," the girl replied nervously.
"You're actually ahead of schedule, but my, you look absolutely stunning tonight." Euphemia stepped aside, allowing the girl to enter the cozy home. Closing the door behind her, she said, "Thank you for the kind words."
The girl gratefully shed her outerwear. "I'm Lily Evans, ma'am."
Recognition instantly dawned on Euphemia's face. "Ah, you must be the girl my son can't stop talking about."
Lily furrowed her brow in confusion. "Your son?"
Euphemia burst into laughter, finding Lily's reaction amusing. "James."
A scowl replaced Lily's smile as she heard the name of the boy who had made her life miserable last term. "That troublemaker is your son?"
"Troublemaker?" Euphemia echoed, her eyes sparkling with amusement.
"I...uh...I apologize," Lily stammered, realizing her bluntness.
Euphemia's laughter filled the room, leaving the young girl puzzled. "Oh, my dear, I can see why my son speaks so highly of you. You truly have spirit."
Before Lily could inquire further, laughter echoed from a distant part of the manor. Excusing herself, she followed the joyful sounds, eager to uncover the source.
Lily's shoes clicked against the hardwood flooring as she entered the living room. There, she found James, Sirius, and Jack roughhousing on the floor, while Peter stuffed his face with food and Remus read a book on the couch. Gwen walked in with two mugs of hot chocolate.
"Merry Christmas, Lily," Gwen smiled, approaching her with a red mug in hand.
"Merry Christmas, Gwen," Lily graciously accepted the hot chocolate and took a large sip.
"I hope I'm not interrupting anything," Gwen raised an eyebrow, glancing at the boys who had stopped and were now lying on the floor, staring up at the girls. "If you want, we could leave you to your bromance and come back later," Gwen added with a half-smile.
"Don't worry about it, love," Sirius quickly scrambled to his feet, followed by James. "We like to keep that whenever we're alone," Sirius winked as James threw an arm over him, both laughing.
"My dearest Lily!" James abandoned Sirius as soon as he noticed her gaze, taking her hands in his.
"I think you were abandoned," Gwen quirked an eyebrow, watching Lily snap at James for touching her and berating him.
"At least I have somebody special to keep me company, sweetheart," Sirius threw an arm over Lily's shoulders, causing a blush to rush to her cheeks at the sudden contact with the boy with silver eyes.
"Ugh, you're quite vexing, Potter!" Lily snapped, crossing her arms.
"Lily, you have yet to meet my Aunt Maeve. I believe she was helping prepare the refreshments for the Quidditch match that is taking place in an hour," Gwen interjected, feeling the tension in the room. She hoped the distraction would make Lily more agreeable tonight.
"Alright," Lily replied, her expression softening. She left with a puppy-eyed James silently following her.
"I wish to give you your gifts now before the game," Gwen said, returning with four beautifully wrapped gifts in red and gold, matching their house colors. She took a seat on the loveseat and handed out the gifts to Remus and Peter, who accepted them with smiles.
"Thank you, Gwen," Remus spoke, his eyes fixed on the gift in his lap.
"Yes, thank you," Peter set his half-eaten pie on the coffee table, holding the gift in his hands. Meanwhile, James walked in with a glum look, and Gwen handed him his gift, instantly brightening his mood.
"Thanks, Gwen," James said, his smile returning. Gwen then held out a gift for Sirius, her cheeks blushing.
"This is for you, Sirius," she said, watching his eyes flicker between the gift and her face. Sirius hesitated for a moment before accepting it.
"You didn't have to get me anything," Sirius said, his thoughtful gaze meeting hers. But when he saw the hurt look flash through her eyes, he was quick to backtrack. "I'm very grateful, don't get me wrong, sweetheart."
"Oh, shut up and just open them, you guys. It's Christmas!" Gwen smiled, brushing it off as she watched all the boys open their gifts with excitement.
Lily walked back in with a gracious smile, handing Gwen a piece of fudge chocolate. "Thank you," Gwen said, watching as Lily's eyes sparkled with warmth and friendship.
"Here you go," Lily said with a gracious smile, presenting her with a piece of fudge chocolate.
"Thank you." She observed the boys' faces light up as they admired the gifts she had bestowed upon them. Taking a sip of the steaming liquid, she let out a contented sigh.
For Remus, she had purchased a coveted book on Defense Against the Dark Arts spells that he had mentioned in their previous conversation about literature. Peter received a box of exquisite French confections, specially imported from France. And for Sirius, she had chosen a cassette player accompanied by a selection of her favorite rock bands, including the iconic Rolling Stones and Led Zeppelin.
Before she could react, Gwen found herself tackled by all four boys, prompting Lily to swiftly snatch her drink away with a mischievous grin, knowing full well what awaited the unsuspecting girl. Giggles escaped her lips as she found herself enveloped in a warm group hug, the boys expressing their gratitude repeatedly.
"Who's up for a snowball fight?" Gwen suggested once the boys finally released their grip on her, moving away from Lily.
"Are you out of your mind? It's freezing out there!" Lily exclaimed, glancing outside at the frost-covered windows.
"Well, you can stay indoors while we have some fun. Almost forgot you were such a party pooper, Evans," James shrugged, his intention to provoke the fiery-haired girl evident as he began putting on his black coat, followed by the other boys.
"I'm not a party pooper! I'm just being sensible. I don't want to risk catching a nasty cold!" Lily countered, finishing her hot chocolate.
"Seems like it," James shrugged, as Remus and Peter exited the room, and Sirius handed Gwen her blue coat, hat, and gloves. "You can stay inside with my parents and watch the telly then." Gwen and Sirius walked out, leaving Lily irritated as she grabbed her belongings and slammed her empty cup on the coffee table.
Jack whistled. "You certainly know how to get under her skin." James grinned before marching out, closely followed by Lily, as Jack closed the door behind them, joining the group.
"That's not fair!" James exclaimed, leading the group back inside. Lily chimed in, her voice filled with amusement, "That was hardly a fair fight!"
"Come on, mate, just accept the loss," Sirius chuckled as they shed their coats, hats, and scarves. They made their way back into the living room, where a spread of hot chocolate, cookies, and candy canes awaited them on the large coffee table.
"You betrayed me, mate!" James huffed, plopping down onto the floor around the table. Gwen settled herself between James and Sirius, while Lily took a seat on the other side of James with Remus beside her. Peter wasted no time digging into the cookies.
"We only narrowly lost," Jack pointed out. "We could have won if you hadn't been so focused on avoiding hitting Lily."
Gwen and Sirius exchanged knowing smiles, acknowledging Jack's point. They had teamed up with Lily against James, and thanks to Gwen and Lily's experience in snowball fights, they had easily emerged victorious.
"I demand a rematch! Let's play Monopoly!" James declared, prompting a groan from Lily. However, Gwen's face immediately brightened up at the mention of the game.
"Why did you have to suggest Monopoly for a rematch?" Lily mumbled, resting her head on the glass table, her hair cascading around her face like a curtain.
"What's gotten into you, Evans?" James asked, puzzled by Lily's behavior.
She shook her head but kept it down. "You'll regret your words, Potter," she muttered, leaving him with a confused expression.
"I think that's a great idea," Sirius chimed in, catching on quickly, while the three boys remained perplexed.
"I warned you," Lily said, lifting her head from the table and taking a long sip from her mug of hot chocolate.
"I win," Gwen smiled innocently, glancing around the table at everyone's astonished faces. They stared wide-eyed, mouths agape, as Gwen had managed to bankrupt them all in just over an hour.
"I told you so," Lily said, taking another sip of her fourth hot chocolate, unfazed by Gwen's victory.
"How on earth did you do that?" James sputtered, disbelief etched on his face. Gwen simply shrugged.
"It's called strategy."
The boys erupted in laughter at Gwen's response. James was too stunned to comprehend that he had lost not once, but twice to her in a single evening. Lily shook her head in amusement, enjoying her hot chocolate. She had seen it coming, but watching Gwen prove James wrong was entertaining.
"I demand another rematch."
"You're just a glutton for punishment, aren't you?" This remark sent the boys into another fit of laughter as they rolled around on the floor, clutching their stomachs. James glared at them for laughing at his expense.
Before James could call for another game, Declan, Jack, and Fleamont entered the living room, dressed in Quidditch gear. "Who's ready for the game?" Declan asked.
James jumped up. "I am!" He leaped over the table and dashed past the older gentlemen.
"Are you lads ready?" Jack, her uncle, grinned, adjusting his gloves.
Sirius, Remus, Jack, and Peter stood, smiling, and followed them outside, leaving Gwen and Lily behind. Using her wand, Gwen swiftly cleaned up the mess, not wanting to miss the Quidditch game. She knew her aunts were already seated under the gazebo.
"Come on, Lily, you're in for a treat," Gwen said, linking her arm with Lily's. They headed outside, where they saw all the boys dressed and ready, grabbing their brooms and soaring into the air.
A beautiful gazebo painted white with a black roof stood before them, adorned with vines of roses climbing the poles and sides. Lily couldn't help but comment, "This is absolutely lovely."
Stepping into the enchanting gazebo, Lily gracefully removed her hat and gloves. The magical warmth charms woven into the structure created a cozy atmosphere. Taking a seat next to James's mother, Lily settled in, while Gwen found her place beside her Aunt Maeve.
Maeve observed the boys as they began selecting their teams one by one. "It looks like they'll have evenly matched teams this year," she remarked. "I'm curious to see how they'll perform."
Euphemia confidently declared, "I bet my galleons on my son."
Declan had James, Remus, and Fleamont on his team, while their opponents had Jack, Liam, Sirius, and Liam. Gwen poured herself another cup of steaming hot chocolate and said, "I'm putting my galleons on Sirius, I mean their team."
The elder women shared knowing smiles, and Maeve couldn't help but burst into laughter. "I share Gwen's sentiments about their team."
Finally joining the conversation, Lily chimed in, "Having witnessed James' exceptional Quidditch skills, I would bet my last galleon on him winning the game."
Gwen playfully teased, "Your last galleon, huh? That's an interesting phrase for you to use."
Blushing slightly, Lily raised her chin and retorted, "I have no idea what you're talking about."
The practice Quidditch game took an unexpected turn when Peter took a bludger to the face. Aunt Maeve hurriedly brought him inside the Manor while the teams regrouped. Peter returned with a bruised eye, and Aunt Maeve transfigured a chair for him to comfortably watch the game with the girls. He didn't seem to mind as he immediately delved into the snacks.
The teams reshuffled, with Declan, Sirius, and James on one side and Jack, Remus, and Lily's uncles Liam and Fleamont on the other. Lily cleared her throat and confidently reaffirmed her bet, "I still stand by my bet on James."
Pouring a cup of tea for Peter, Gwen passed it to him with a nod. "I'll also be sticking to my bet," she said.
Aunt Euphemia grinned mischievously as she looked up at the boys soaring on their brooms, readying for the game. "I'll be changing my bet to my husband. What about you, Maeve?"
With a thoughtful hum, Maeve replied, "I'll keep my bet on my son."
Peter, after devouring a few finger sandwiches, chimed in, "I've got my galleons on James."
As James landed on the pitch, he couldn't contain his frustration, and his broom clattered to the ground. "Dammit!"
Euphemia Potter rose from her chair, admonishing her son, "Watch your language!"
She observed as James hastily threw off his gear, contrasting with the other players who calmly dismounted their brooms. "We should have won!"
Sirius appeared downcast as he tried to console his friend. "Look, mate. Liam hit the bludger just before Jack caught the snitch. It was a good game."
Walking towards the gazebo, where Lily fixed him with a narrowed gaze, James muttered, "I knew I should have bet on Jack."
This comment caught him off guard, and he blinked at the redhead who was tidying up. "You placed a bet on me?"
"It was a mistake I won't make again," Lily replied, making her way towards the house. James, suddenly elated, chased after her.
Maeve approached her husband, Liam, and planted a kiss on his cheek before embracing her son. "That was quite the game, darling. My boys are amazing."
Jack sniffed, "Of course, I'm amazing. If Uncle hadn't hit quaffle after quaffle, we would have won the game even sooner."
Declan chuckled, arm and arm with Fleamont as they walked towards the gazebo, once more chatting about the game. Sirius, Remus and Jack run towards them smiling before tackling them. A plan that must have been thought of by Sirius or Jack. Gwen couldn't help but smile as she watched her father interact with the boys, his smile wide as he along with Fleamont began to tussle with the boys.
She wondered what it would have been like to have a sibling.
"I assume that my loving wife placed her bets on me," Fleamont walked over to his wife after stepping out of the tussle that resulted in the boys and her own Father to be covered in snow and drenched.
"I did of course," she grinned
Gwen dug into her purse, pulling the coins out and handing them over to Maeve as she knew that Lily already handed hers to Euphemia.
"May I ask who you set your own bet on?" Sirius came up next to her, his face flushed but a wide lazy grin on his face.
"I bet on my loyal dog," she gazed at him.
Declan watched the interaction with a pensive expression, not liking the fact how the Black heir seemed to make her smile and flush. Watching his daughter walk away with him following behind, made him decide that he would talk to him later.
Once the chaos of tidying up and feasting on a scrumptious dinner settled, the entire group gravitated towards the cozy living room, eagerly anticipating the flickering television. A Christmas movie began to weave its enchanting spell, capturing their senses. Amidst the crowd, Sirius abruptly broke away, venturing into another sitting room.
Curiosity piqued, Gwen trailed behind, her attire a striking contrast to the magical surroundings. She donned a worn-out band t-shirt and stylish plaid pants, embracing her unique muggle fashion sense.
"Are you alright?" she inquired, extending a hand towards him before hesitantly retracting it. "Is it because your Mum insisted you stay with James, knowing he's my cousin and we'd be spending time together?"
He simply nodded, finally finding his voice. "She asked Reggie to stay away, afraid he'd disrupt things."
Frowning, Gwen wondered why Reggie hadn't appeared after she invited him to join the quidditch match. She made a mental note to avoid such misunderstandings in the future.
"I hope you don't feel guilty about being here because of your mother's wishes," she assured him.
"I understand that you and I are fine with our friendship, but I don't like that nobody else knows about it," Sirius admitted, clicking his tongue and crossing his arms.
Gwen leaned in, her tone serious. "Jack intercepted your mother's letter and shared it with me. Everyone here knows about the task she assigned you, except for Remus and Peter, unless you've already informed them."
"I told them when I spoke to James," Sirius confessed, sheepishly scratching the back of his neck. "I'm surprised your father hasn't approached me for a proper introduction or conversation yet."
"It's only the first day," Gwen consoled him, her words laced with reassurance. "Just wait, and you'll have a chance to talk with him."
Wincing, Sirius finally turned to face her fully, his gaze fixated on her candy cane-patterned, red socks.
"I know that Christmas isn't until tomorrow, but I want to give you your gift in private."
She smiled, "Technically, it's already Christmas."
Turning to the grandfather clock in the room, he noticed that it was barely past midnight.
Digging into the pocket of his jumper, he walked over to where she stood in the doorway and presented a gift wrapped in blue and silver paper, adorned with a blue bow.
"Thank you."
Gingerly, she unraveled the bow and quietly unwrapped it, careful not to make too much noise. To her surprise, she found a plain matte black box with metal edges. Glancing at Sirius with a confused smile, he simply shook his head and gestured towards the box.
Opening it, she let out a soft gasp, unable to believe her eyes. Inside was a sterling silver charm bracelet, adorned with four charms. The first was a book, Pride and Prejudice; the second was the Ravenclaw emblem; the third, a pumpkin; and the last, a telescope.
"The book is your favorite, the Ravenclaw charm represents when you joined your mother's house, the pumpkin signifies the pumpkin juice prank you pulled, and the telescope is a symbol of our special place, the Astronomy Tower."
"S-Sirius..." She trailed off, looking back up at him with awe. He smiled and she handed him the small box. Taking the bracelet out, he set the box on the empty table and unclasped the small sterling silver charm bracelet. She held out her right wrist for him to wrap it around.
"Do you like it?" A flicker of nervousness danced in his eyes as he looked at the bracelet before meeting her gaze. Smiling, she brought her wrist into his line of sight and shook it, causing the metal charms to jingle against each other.
"I love it."
Avoiding eye contact, she noticed the mistletoe hanging above her head. Shyly, she quickly kissed him on the cheek, mimicking his previous gesture.
"Merry Christmas, Sirius," she breathed out.
He leaned forward, returning the kiss on her forehead. "Merry Christmas, Gwen."
After exchanging a lingering gaze, Gwen bid him goodnight and gracefully retreated to her own quarters. Sirius was left standing there, fixated on the space she had just occupied.
Crushing on Gwen? That couldn't be right. They were simply friends, nothing more.
Sirius rolled his eyes, fully aware that his feeble attempt to convince himself otherwise was a sad excuse to brush off the undeniable feelings he harbored. Especially since that conversation with Remus a few weeks back.
Sure, he had other female friends, but, as Remus had pointed out with brutal honesty, he wasn't as affectionate with any of them. Not like he was with Gwen. The protectiveness he felt towards her resembled what he felt for his younger brother. Perhaps he had mistaken his emotions and simply saw her as a sister figure.
Confusion knitted his brows together as he grappled with his true feelings. Maybe Remus had been mistaken about his own emotions and Sirius's as well.
Startled by a voice in the distance, Sirius snapped his head towards the source. To his surprise, it was Declan, Gwen's father, leaning casually against the doorframe.
"Has my daughter already retired for the night?"
"Yes, sir!" Sirius stammered, caught off guard.
Declan smirked knowingly. "Come with me."
Nervously swallowing, Sirius complied. Declan's deep voice resonated through the silent halls as he explained, "Everyone else has gone to bed, and I thought it best for the two of us to have a chat."
"I understand, sir," Sirius replied, his teeth chattering with apprehension.
The two men climbed the stairs, reaching their destination. Declan's study. The door closed behind them, and with a single step, the fireplace burst into flames.
"Take a seat."
Doing as he was told, Sirius settled into one of the chairs facing the grand mahogany desk, cluttered with papers, books, and maps. He glanced around the room, taking in the exquisite ornaments adorning the walls, including the built-in bookshelves. The only exception was the fireplace, which housed a portrait of an older woman resembling Gwen, sitting at her own table. She smiled and waved at Sirius, adding a touch of warmth to the room.
"That's my late wife, Roselyn," Declan said, pointing to a portrait on the wall.
Gwen reminded him of her," he continued, stumbling over his words. "Not that she doesn't resemble you, sir. What I meant to say-"
Declan interrupted him with a raised hand.
"My daughter is not only a spitting image of her mother, but she also shares her personality," Declan said, smiling warmly at the portrait. He leaned back in his luxurious leather seat and turned his attention to Sirius. "So, you're the boy my daughter speaks so highly of? Sirius Black, right? Your parents are Orion and Walburga Black from the Noble House of Black."
Sirius nodded, surprised that Gwen had mentioned him to her father, let alone in such a positive light. "Yes, Sir. I'm Sirius Black. It's a pleasure to finally meet you. Gwen has spoken highly of you as well."
"Gwen thinks you're a fine Gryffindor boy. Is that true?"
"Yes, Sir."
"Call me Declan."
"Very well," Sirius replied, feeling tongue-tied and nervous under Declan's scrutinizing gaze. He felt like he was being examined like a caged animal.
"Gwen's late mother and I raised her with different beliefs than most pureblood families," Declan explained, his eyes drifting to a photo on his desk. It captured Gwen laughing and running away from James and Jack. "We kept her sheltered from the rest of the families, waiting for her to make her own choices about the people she wanted to associate with."
"I understand," Sirius said, his eyes following Declan's gaze to the joyful photo.
"Gwen is incredibly intelligent, just like her mother. She always tries to see the good in everyone, believing in second chances for all. But her naivety and trust in others could make her vulnerable to those with darker intentions. Now that she's growing up, I can't be there to protect her from those who might want to use her or harm her because of her name," Declan explained, his gaze returning to Sirius.
Sirius was puzzled. Why was Declan telling him all this? "What are you asking of me, Declan?"
"James and Jack have been protective of Gwen when I'm not around, but..." Declan paused, searching for the right words. "I'm asking you to also watch over my daughter. She wants to get to know the families, and she trusts you a great deal. Besides, I believe you're different from your family. So, I'm asking you to protect her at all costs, to ensure her safety."
"You have my word that I won't let anything happen to your daughter. I'll protect her, no matter what, as she means a great deal to me," Sirius promised without hesitation, his gaze shifting to Gwen, James, and Lily engaged in conversation.
"I know you won't," Declan replied. Sirius couldn't help but ask the question that lingered on his tongue. "Why me, in particular?"
Declan stared at him, the fire casting shadows on his face. The same look of indifference that Gwen often wore mirrored in her father's eyes. "I trust that you understand why I'm confiding in you about this and not the others."
"I understand, sir."
"Remember, you are more than your lineage. Hold onto that, as you'll need it for what's to come."
Lily stealthily tiptoed across the hallway, making her way to Gwen's room. Suppressing a mischievous giggle, she gingerly touched the icy doorknob with her warm hand. Clad in socks, she glided over the white carpet, basking in the faint glow of the hallway light that seeped into Gwen's dimly lit sanctuary. Climbing onto the bed with an impish grin, Lily couldn't contain her excitement any longer.
"Merry Christmas!" she exclaimed, her voice brimming with joy. "Wake up, you sleepyhead!" Gwen responded by burying herself deeper into her cozy cocoon of blankets, hiding beneath a pillow.
"Go away!"
"But it's Christmas!"
Reluctantly, Gwen poked her head out from under the covers, shooting Lily a half-hearted glare that conveyed her displeasure at being awakened from her deep slumber.
"Merry Christmas," she muttered, feigning cheerfulness, while the lingering memory of her father's letter from three weeks ago dampened her spirits. "Can I go back to bed now?"
"Gwen!"
Suddenly, the door burst open, and five boys barged into the room, leaping onto the bed. Laughter and shouts filled the air, causing Gwen to groan as she entertained thoughts of shoving them out the window into the icy snow.
"Fine!" Gwen snapped, tossing her blankets aside and climbing out of bed, dressed in loose cotton shorts and a t-shirt. "I'm up!" Lily grabbed Gwen's arm, and together they descended the stairs, joining the rest of the family in the living room where mugs of hot coffee awaited.
"Merry Christmas!" Gwen exclaimed, taking her place on the floor next to James and Jack.
"Merry Christmas, Gwen."
A couple of hours later, after the presents had been unwrapped, photos had been taken, and Christmas sweaters had been distributed, Gwen and Lily hurriedly stashed away their gifts in their rooms. They then indulged in a leisurely breakfast, sipping hot chocolate and relishing the freedom to spend the morning in their cozy pajamas.
Gwen felt a mix of nerves and excitement as she prepared to give her gift to Sirius, especially after the thoughtful and expensive present he had given her the previous night. She had purchased a cassette player and compiled a collection of songs from legendary bands like The Rolling Stones, The Beatles, Pink Floyd, and Led Zeppelin. She remembered a fleeting conversation with Sirius about James missing his muggle music records, and Sirius had shown genuine interest. So, she had chosen a few artists she thought he would enjoy.
Currently, Gwen, Remus, and Lily found solace in the library, wrapped in the warmth of their hot chocolate as they savored the peace and quiet away from the boisterous boys. Remus, on the verge of agitation and exhaustion with the approaching full moon, would be leaving later that day to prepare. Initially reluctant to accept Gwen's offer of borrowing books from their library, he eventually relented after she gave him the cold shoulder. He selected two books to take with him, insisting that he wouldn't take any more.
After lunch, Jack joined the two girls in the library, eager to start his potions essay. Gwen's cousin had an unwavering passion for quidditch, girls, and Defense Against the Dark Arts, aspiring to become an Auror like his father and uncle. However, he detested potions, dismissing it as a pointless waste of time. This sparked an impromptu argument between Lily and Jack, with Gwen silently engrossed in her book, relishing the banter.
"Jack, I'm surprised you didn't ask Lily for help with your potions paper, considering she's a member of Slughorn's Slug Club."
"You're part of the Slug Club?" Jack raised an eyebrow.
Lily made a dismissive noise. "Why wouldn't I be?"
Jack snorted. "No wonder you're so defensive about that ludicrous class."
The comment struck a nerve, causing Lily to curse, slam her book shut, and storm off. Jack, realizing his mistake, laughed before chasing after her to apologize.
Rolling her eyes, Gwen couldn't help but notice the striking similarities between Jack and James, despite not being blood-related. Returning to her book, she sipped her peppermint tea and relished the crackling of the fireplace.
Stepping out of the car, Gwen adjusted her matching blue hat and overcoat, taking in the cold and gloomy atmosphere of London. Gray clouds dominated the sky, and the morning fog lingered, creating a captivating ambiance. She cherished the crisp air that London offered, which was why her parents refused to leave for America, where her mother's parents resided. This decision had allowed Gwen to meet Lily, Severus, Olivia, Jackie, and a world of endless possibilities.
Her Father emerged from the car, dressed in a sleek, charcoal suit. He expertly retrieved her trunk and carry-on bag from the trunk before closing the car door. Together, they navigated through the bustling train station, gripping each other's hands tightly to avoid getting lost in the sea of commuters.
The week spent with her Father had flown by, filled with precious moments catching up on the past five months. They had indulged in the grandeur of the theater, watching a mesmerizing production of The Nutcracker. They bonded over movies, took their annual photographs, and even fulfilled a promise to go ice skating.
"You're such a brave and resilient young girl," he whispered affectionately into her ear, planting a tender kiss on her forehead.
"Like Mom?" she inquired.
"Just like your mother," he replied, his voice barely above a whisper. "I should let you go now, as you have a train to catch," he added, though he knew his daughter understood the unspoken message. He hoped she wouldn't be too upset with him. "I love you, my dear," he said, pulling her into another warm embrace, unaware of the small group observing their heartfelt exchange.
"I love you too, Father," she murmured into his coat, blinking back the tears that threatened to spill. "I'll miss you."
"I'll miss you even more," he whispered back.
Declan watched as his daughter cast one last glance at him, a soft smile gracing her face. He observed her every move until she disappeared from sight.
"Gwen!" A flash of red hair caught her attention as she was engulfed in a tight embrace. "How was the rest of your break?" she heard, barely registering that they had passed through the barrier from the muggle world into their own.
"It was absolutely amazing," she replied, returning the hug before breaking apart. Glancing around, she noticed her Father engaged in conversation with Mr. and Mrs. Evans nearby. "And yours?" Gwen asked her friend.
"Just the usual," she responded with a wave of her hand and a smile. Digging into her bag, she retrieved a small box she had been eager to give Gwen. Handing it over, she smiled warmly.
"I got you something when I went to see The Nutcracker," Lily said, hugging her again.
"Thank you so much, Gwen," Gwen said, grateful for the thoughtful gesture. She carefully placed the box in her bag, not wanting to risk damaging it.
"Gwen!"
"Sweetheart!" Two bodies tackled her, causing her to laugh as she stumbled under their weight. She didn't need to guess who it was. After a few seconds, she regained her balance.
"Sirius! James!" She returned their tight hugs, their faces beaming with joy. "How was your break?"
"I spent it with Jamesy here," Sirius answered dramatically, gesturing towards James, who had sidled closer to Lily. "We played Quidditch," he added, exchanging a mischievous glance with James before both burst into laughter, much to Lily's amusement.
"I can't imagine why you find that so amusing," she retorted.
"It's because we played it in the house," James chuckled, noticing the disdainful look on Lily's face.
"Do you ever take a break from causing chaos?"
"Oh, Evans, when will you learn that I am James Potter, the future keeper for the Gryffindor Quidditch team? Everybody loves me," James proclaimed, observing the banter between the two.
"How was your break?" Sirius asked, nudging Gwen gently.
"It was perfect. We visited my mom and spent the whole day just talking," Gwen beamed, sharing details with Sirius.
"Well, darling, I believe you had the best break out of all of us combined," he said with a soft smile, causing Gwen to clap her hands together, her face lighting up.
"SIRIUS!" A familiar shrill voice pierced the air, making them all wince in pain. James and Lily ceased their bickering and hurriedly boarded the train, seeking refuge from the voice.
Sirius dashed off in the direction of the voice, and after a moment's deliberation, Gwen decided to follow. She had her own bone to pick with the older woman.
As she approached, she saw Walburga and Orion Black standing with their backs to her, Sirius looking placated and Regulus appearing anxious. Clearing her throat, Gwen slipped into their small circle, coming to their rescue.
"Hello, Mr. and Mrs. Black. It's a lovely morning to see you both," she greeted them, causing their gazes to snap in her direction. They straightened their postures, their words stumbling. Gwen noticed both boys restraining their laughter from the corner of her eye.
"Lady Donoghue," Orion cleared his throat, bowing slightly. "We weren't expecting to see you here."
She smiled. "I'm in the same year as Sirius. Why wouldn't I be here?"
Walburga interjected before he could respond, "What my husband meant to say is that we weren't expecting to meet with you."
"Mrs. Black, I must admit, I came here specifically to have a word with Regulus before Sirius and I hop on the train."
The parents' faces lit up as she revealed her purpose for visiting the Black family, nodding eagerly in response.
Turning to Regulus, she greeted him with a warm smile. "Reggie, it's great to see you again. I was genuinely disappointed when you didn't accept my invitation to join the Quidditch match."
Walburga quickly interjected with an excuse, stuttering, "Regulus couldn't make it, he was sick."
"Sick? That's strange because I heard from my house elf, who heard it from your own elf, that Regulus was confined to his room." The older woman's face turned red. "It's impolite to lie and make excuses, you know."
Orion, furrowing his brows, asked, "When was Regulus sick?" This only made his wife turn even redder.
Shifting her attention away from the couple, she focused on the youngest Black, who stared at her with wide eyes filled with admiration. Retrieving a small box wrapped in green and silver from her bag, she handed it to him.
"This is my gift for you, Reggie," she said, her smile radiant. "Merry Christmas and Happy New Year."
Blushing, Regulus stammered, "T-thank you, Lady Donoghue."
"You can call me Gwen, you know. It's perfectly fine."
"Yes, Miss Gwen."
"Good luck with the sorting ceremony, Reggie," she chuckled, glancing back at Mr. and Mrs. Black, who observed the interaction with concealed excitement.
"Mr. Black, I kindly request that you keep your wife in line. She has shown great disrespect towards my family. It's a shame to see the Noble House of Black lacking in respect."
The tall and imposing older man seemed to take her words to heart. "I will make sure that she behaves like a respectable lady of her status by the time of the Malfoy Garden Party."
"Thank you."
"You're very welcome."
"Lady Donoghue," Sirius called out, seeking her attention. "I would be honored to accompany you to your compartment on the train."
Blushing, she nodded and took his arm. "Nothing would please me more, Sirius."
Turning their backs to the older couple, they left the trio behind. Declan felt relieved, realizing his trust in Sirius was well-placed. He resisted the urge to intervene when Gwen confronted Walburga, admiring how she stood her ground, even wearing a smile. Sirius met his gaze, and he gave a slight nod, extending a helping hand to his daughter. Her gaze lingered on him for a moment, then she took Sirius's hand and boarded the train, disappearing from sight. A wave of sadness washed over him as she gave him a soft smile, her bottom lip quivering.
"She reminds me so much of Roselyn..." Liam smiled, and they all stood there in silence, waiting for the train to depart.
"She's so much more," he muttered, turning away and bidding them farewell before stepping through the barrier.
Sirius guided Gwen onto the train and toward the compartment they shared. It wasn't until they were inside that they burst into laughter at his parents' reactions.
"I can already imagine my mother writing me a letter tonight, praising me," Sirius chuckled.
Gwen continued giggling but couldn't resist teasing him. "And why exactly do you believe that?"
His face turned serious as he backed her against the cabin window, gently holding her chin to make her look up at him. At that moment, she realized he had grown taller in the past two months.
"It's because they think I've captured the attention of a beautiful but unattainable pureblood princess," he murmured.
Avoiding his gaze, she tried to focus on anything other than her racing heartbeat. "Oh, Sirius, you can be quite the comedian sometimes."
"Oh, my darling Gwen..." His breath brushed against her face. "You can be so naive at times." With those words, he backed away and flopped onto the seat.
"Naive?" she questioned.
Just then, James burst into the cabin, followed by Remus and Peter, their animated conversation filling the space. Which left her to her own girlish thoughts, flushed as she avoided his stare.