Her Father had returned home triumphantly, completing his arduous assignment. The sweet scent of summer lingered in the air, casting a vibrant aura over the estate. Since the spectacular Garden Party, her Father had taken it upon himself to commission a series of exquisite dresses for her, anticipating the forthcoming social season. The interactions with the other children had been disappointingly brief and lackluster, as if they were held captive by endless boredom.

However, she couldn't entirely fault them.

After all, they didn't possess the privilege of accepting or declining invitations.

"Mistress," a voice interrupted her musings, causing her to set down her delicate teacup and the book of enchanting poems she had been engrossed in. She turned her head slightly to see Minky, their devoted house elf, standing before her.

"Yes, Minky?" she replied, curiosity lacing her words.

"You have visitors," Minky announced, a hint of mystery in her tone.

Confusion knitted her brow as she wondered who would dare to drop by unannounced. "Please, let them in."

"Will do, Mistress," Minky said, disappearing back into the grand Manor, leaving her to hastily smooth out the wrinkles in her pale blue dress. She quickly adorned her hands with silk white gloves and elegantly pulled her hair back into a sophisticated bun. She wouldn't dare allow a pureblood to find her appearing anything less than impeccable, as they would surely spread gossip about her lack of refinement among the influential families.

"Mistress," she heard Minky's voice again, and she turned her head to find her standing alongside four notorious troublemakers, a smile gracing her lips.

"Yes, would you please ask the chef to prepare sandwiches, refreshing beverages, and an assortment of delectable confections?"

"Where shall I instruct the server to bring them? The terrace, the balcony, or the drawing room?" Minky inquired dutifully.

"Out here, as today is a splendid day," she replied, a touch of excitement in her voice.

"Of course. Is there anything else I can assist you with?" Minky asked, ever attentive.

"Is Father home?" she inquired, hoping for his presence.

"Not at the moment, Miss. However, he will join us for lunch," Minky informed her.

"Please inform him that we have guests, and I would appreciate his company before he resumes his work," she requested politely.

"Of course," Minky said with a bow before adding, "Thank you, Miss."

"You're most welcome," she replied graciously, watching as Minky departed once more.

As she ascended the steps of the magnificent manor, the boys eagerly rushed towards her, enveloping her in a boisterous greeting. She welcomed their exuberance, elated to see them sooner than expected.

"I can see that I was sorely missed," Gwen laughed, finally released from their enthusiastic embrace. She took her seat at the table nestled beneath the sprawling willow tree.

"Of course, you were missed, you ninny," James remarked playfully, swiping her half-eaten sandwich.

"I had no idea that your house was such a grand and breathtaking place, Gwen," Remus commented in awe.

The Donoghue Manor, an architectural marvel crafted from stone, was adorned with vibrant flowers and entwined with lush vines. The sprawling estate spanned several acres of land, boasting majestic towers, winding staircases, secret tunnels, hidden chambers, and countless nooks and crannies. Remus had last visited during the winter, when a blanket of snow had transformed the manor into a magical wonderland.

"It is indeed a sight to behold," Gwen agreed with a contented smile, her gaze drifting toward the magnificent structure. "But let us not dwell on that. How did you manage to find your way here?"

Finally, Sirius spoke up, his mischievous tone evident. "We flew here on our brooms, of course!"

Gwen blinked in disbelief. "Please tell me you're joking."

Remus interjected, coming to her rescue. "He is. Mrs. Potter kindly granted us permission to use the Floo network after James and Sirius incessantly begged to visit you."

"I see," Gwen chuckled. "I hate to disappoint, but I'm afraid I'm not as exciting as you may believe. I spend most of my time engrossed in books and sipping tea." She gestured toward the neatly stacked pile of books and the glass teapot, accompanied by a delicate teacup.

"Oh, come now, Gwen," Sirius exclaimed, carelessly propping his feet up on the table. "You can't spend all your days buried in books. Otherwise, my dear, you're not truly living."

"He's right," Peter chimed in, finally finding his voice. "If you're always absorbed in books, how will you ever have your own grand adventures?"

Gwen clicked her tongue playfully. "Touché, Pettigrew," she conceded, earning a cheeky grin from the boy.

"That's the spirit," James laughed, springing up from the table to explore the sprawling garden surrounding them. "It's been far too long since I've been here."

"Please excuse the mess, as I am still in the process of planting," Gwen apologized, gesturing towards a corner of the garden where new flowers were taking root.

"Only you would consider this a mess," Remus chuckled, joining James in examining the garden, while the others followed suit.

"What can I say? I enjoy order and everything in its rightful place," she retorted, a twinkle of amusement in her eyes. Her gaze shifted to Sirius, and she noticed a faint black eye and a reopened wound on his lip. Concern and slight anger flickered in her eyes as she turned to Jamie. "Why don't you show Remus and Peter the brooms we keep so that they can play a game of Quidditch and practice for the tryouts?"

James glanced at Gwen, recognizing her silent plea, and quickly led the boys away to give her a moment alone with Sirius.

Standing up from her seat, Gwen approached Sirius and enveloped him in a warm embrace, silently shedding tears onto his shoulder. "What happened?" she whispered, her voice laden with worry. Sirius returned the hug, taking a deep breath before explaining, "My mother was furious that I refused to help my cousin in her plot against your family. She deemed it necessary to teach me a lesson."

Sirius embraced her tenderly, inhaling deeply before opening up about his family situation. "My refusal to use you as a means to impress our relatives and show off to other families didn't sit well with my mother. She believed I needed a lesson in reminding me how important family is. And so, she resorted to teaching me that lesson in a rather harsh manner." As he whispered these words into her ear, he held her tightly while she silently shed tears, understanding that her own tears were for him since he couldn't cry himself.

"Has your mother hit you before?" she asked, pausing and sniffling.

"No," he replied with a pause.

"Tell me about it," she urged, her voice barely a whisper as she sniffed.

"Another time, my darling."

"I am grateful for your immeasurable devotion to me," she said, her face growing flushed. "And please know that my devotion lies with you as well."

"There's no need to express it, my love," he murmured. "I am already aware that you will always be by my side when it truly matters."

"Sirius..."

Sirius gently cupped her face in his hands, wiping away her tears as he gazed into her soft eyes. Planting a tender kiss on her forehead, he reluctantly released his grip on her. It was a necessary move, as he didn't want to harm the young girl he had vowed to protect, even from his own family.

"Come, I believe the others are waiting for us," he said, taking her hand and leading her in the direction the others had gone.

"I don't quite grasp the concept," Peter spoke up, perched on his broom high in the air.

"It's Quidditch, Peter," James laughed as he circled around him in the sky.

"Come on, mate, it's not that difficult to understand," Sirius chimed in from a distance.

Gwen had stepped out of the Manor to watch James and Sirius attempt to teach Peter how to play Quidditch. It had been a futile effort as they had been at it for two hours, and Peter had failed at being a beater, seeker, and keeper. So they decided to play a few practice games to help him get the hang of it.

"Gwen!"

She turned at the sound of her name, only to be greeted by a blur of black rushing towards her. Suddenly, she felt a jolt of discomfort coursing through her body. Wincing, she tightly gripped her forehead, letting out a low groan as she accidentally bit her tongue.

"Ah, sorry, darling. I didn't mean to crash into you like that," Sirius Black said, looking down at her with a sheepish smile and extending his hand. "Need a hand?"

"Thanks," she replied, taking his hand as he effortlessly helped her up from the ground. "I suppose another game of Quidditch?"

"James and I got bored trying to teach Peter, so we started playing a game of chase on brooms," Sirius explained.

"Are you alright, Gwen?" Remus inquired, rushing over with a book in hand, followed closely by Peter. "Did this oaf give you a concussion?"

Suppressing a grin, Gwen realized how much she had missed the company of the four boys, even after just a few days. "I'm perfectly fine now. Thank you for your concern, Remus."

"How are you still sane after spending so much time with these three foolish boys?" Remus chuckled, placing his book on the table and taking his seat.

James, holding his broom, approached the small group with a puzzled expression. "Who are you calling foolish?"

"I believe he is referring to us, my dear James," Sirius said, feigning a hurt look and placing a hand over his heart as if he had truly been wounded.

"Why are you so cruel to us?"

"Gwen is far from cruel. I believe she is patient and compassionate to deal with both of you day in and day out," Remus stated, causing Peter to chuckle quietly.

"You're not wrong there, Mooney," Sirius mumbled to himself as he observed Gwen and the others starting to enjoy the food prepared by the chef.

Gwen and Remus sat at the table, engrossed in conversation about classic Muggle books while the boys played a game of hide and seek on their brooms. Sipping their tea, they discussed the summer homework they had been assigned. They had already started working on their assignments, prioritizing studying over pranks.

"Isn't this a pleasant surprise?"

Both wizards turned their heads toward the voice to see Gwen's father, Declan, dressed in a dark charcoal suit. Gwen's face immediately lit up, and she placed her teacup and saucer down on the table before rushing to hug her father.

"Father, welcome home!"

He chuckled. "It's good to be home, dear." Stepping back, Gwen took her father's hand and led him over to the table where Remus was, feeling nervous yet excited.

"Father, I'd like you to properly meet my friend" she said, gesturing towards Remus. Remus swallowed nervously but extended his hand to her father.

Although Remus had spent a couple of days with them during winter break, he had never had a proper conversation with Gwen's father, who had spent most of his time with her uncles.

"It's nice to finally meet you, Mr. Donoghue," Remus managed to say, his voice slightly shaky. "I'm Remus Lupin."

"Ah," Gwen's father remarked, a mischievous glint in his eyes. "The one with the furry problem." He burst into laughter, while Remus's eyes widened, and he began to stammer.

With Gwen settling back into her seat at the table, she reluctantly allowed her Father to continue his playful antics with her friend. However, after witnessing a few more minutes of his relentless teasing, she couldn't resist stepping in.

"Father," she interjected, her voice filled with curiosity. "I've been meaning to ask, does Remus' Father happen to work at the ministry too?"

Her Father paused, a mischievous glint in his eyes. "Ah, so you're referring to Lyall Lupin, the expert in Non-Human Spiritous Apparitions, aren't you?"

As the topic shifted, Remus found himself no longer stumbling over his words. He relaxed, realizing that Declan was simply jesting about the unusual name he had been given.

"Yes, sir," Remus replied, relieved to be part of a lighthearted conversation.

Declan settled into his seat at the table, pouring himself a steaming cup of tea. "I've collaborated with him countless times. Our paths always seem to intersect," he remarked, taking a satisfying sip. "He's not only a great guy but incredibly skilled at his job. I've heard you're cut from the same cloth."

Remus stared at Declan, curiosity etched on his face. "Do you really think so?"

Declan paused, a mischievous glint in his eye. "I know so," he chuckled. "Except for the little issue with fur, of course." This lighthearted comment caused Remus to stumble over his words.

"Father," Gwen warned, narrowing her gaze at him as she took a sip of her tea.

"Alright, alright," he replied, relenting. "Now, where's my nephew?"

"Uncle!"

They turned to see James and Sirius flying on their brooms, swiftly descending upon the clearing. Peter followed behind, his expression filled with trepidation.

"James! My boy!" Declan's smirk widened. "And Sirius!"

James and Sirius dismounted their brooms, dropping them as they rushed to greet the older man. James and Declan engaged in some roughhousing, while Sirius and Declan exchanged knowing glances and snickers. Gwen rolled her eyes, well aware that her father, despite his age, still had a childlike spirit.

"Boys will be boys," she hummed, observing a nervous Peter and her father exchanging introductions. "Seems like I've surrounded myself with them."

It was an amusing sight, to say the least.

Declan spent the better part of the day teaching James and Sirius Quidditch tricks, while Peter indulged in the delectable treats Gwen had arranged with the chef. Remus and Gwen discussed their upcoming classes for their second year. As the sun began to set, Minky informed them that dinner was ready and made arrangements for the boys to stay in the guest rooms. The Potter family had sent their belongings ahead, so everyone agreed to the change in plans, originally intending to stay with James.

"You should all freshen up and join us for dinner," she instructed, eyeing the grass stains and sweat-covered group, except Gwen and Remus. "I'll show you to your rooms."

While the boys, including her father, cleaned up, Gwen decided to give Remus a tour of the manor's expansive library. It turned out to be an excellent idea, as Remus marveled at the vast collection of books.

"Blimey!" he exclaimed, causing Gwen to giggle at his astonishment. He took in the sight of thousands of books before rushing to a random shelf, with Gwen following close behind. "I'd almost forgotten how extensive your library was."

Gwen smiled, "If you'd like, Remus, feel free to borrow some of our books. The offer still stands."

He spun around, eyes wide with excitement. "Really?!"

She giggled again. "Of course. My father's side, despite being Slytherins, had a great passion for acquiring and collecting books of all kinds. Knowledge is power, and power leads to influence, which ultimately brings fame," she quoted, more to herself than to Remus.

Before Remus could respond, James burst into the library.

"I can't believe I didn't think to look for you two here first. I've been searching everywhere," James sighed, rolling his eyes. "It's time for dinner."

Gwen perked up, turning to James with a grateful smile. "Thank you for finding us, Jamie. We should go; we don't want to keep the others waiting any longer."

"Alright," Remus said, his reluctance apparent as he looked back at the grand library.

"You can come back later," Gwen reassured him, already following James as she waited for Remus to catch up.

Gwen settled into her seat, taking in the lively atmosphere of the dinner table. Her father animatedly discussed Quidditch with James, while Sirius playfully teased Peter. Remus watched her father with admiration. Quietly, Gwen enjoyed her steak, observing how well her friends got along.

"Gwen, my darling," Sirius called out, concern evident in his voice. She realized they were all looking at her with worried expressions.

Clearing her throat, she nodded. "Yes, sorry. I was just lost in thought about my Transfigurations homework."

James and Peter chuckled. "Of course, you were, you swot," James teased.

Sirius looked relieved before playfully tossing a pea at James. "Don't underestimate Gwen. She's the smartest one among us."

"I agree with Sirius," Peter chimed in, his mouth full of mashed potatoes. "She's been helping us with our work all year, except for Remus."

James grumbled, shooting a playful glare at his uncle. "At least Uncle Declan agrees with me."

Declan snorted into his goblet of red wine, causing the boys to burst into laughter while James gasped dramatically, complaining to her father, who simply ignored him and engaged Remus in conversation about his job.

After dinner and hours of roughhousing with the boys with the exception of Remus going to the library. Declan led the five to his study as he wanted to discuss something important with them.

"What's the matter Uncle?" James took his seat in the plush leather chair in front of the large desk

Peter had taken the other leather chair while Sirius leaned against the lit fireplace, Remus leaned against the arm of the chair that James had occupied.

Declan sighed as he took his seat "I have something important to discuss first,"

"Even me?" Gwen spoke up as they all looked at her before turning back to the only adult in the room

He nodded, "yes as much as I'd love to keep you away from such matters. You're more than old enough to make your own decisions especially since you have made the choice to take your place with the families."

Sirius reached over and took her hand in his, yanking her into his side he offered her comfort. Gwen knew that it was more for him then it was for her at the mention of the families. Him being one himself.

"I'm sure you have heard the rumors of a dark wizard going by the name of Voldemort proclaiming himself as the Dark Lord in the news," pause "before this though Albus Dumbledore has passed a legislation that will keep Voldemort from starting a war immediately."

Sirius and Gwen exchanged glances with one another before turning back to her Father as he rubbed his forehead.

"Just last night a small group of dark creatures attacked a pub on the outskirts of London, Alastair Moody and I along with a team had cleaned up the mess. However, I'm advising you all to be very careful as I fear that it's only going to become worse from here on as Voldemort is determined to accomplish what Grindelwald was unable to."

"Is Minister Jenkins going to do anything about him?" Remus asked

"I'm not sure as this is only the fourth attack," Declan stood from his desk as he walked over to his bookshelf and began rummaging around "what I do know is that you'll be perfectly safe at Hogwarts"

"Does my Father know about this Uncle?" James finally spoke up after sitting in silence

"Yes, he asked me to talk to you about it since I know more about what's going on"

"The other reason why I asked you here is because Gwen had informed me that you have yet to reach the second stage of becoming Animagus" opening the jar he had found off the cluttered shelf he walked around his desk and offered it to James first. "I assume you are all informed of the second stage of it, correct?

"Yes sir" Peter squealed as he took a leaf out of the jar

"Is this a mandrake leaf?" Sirius and Gwen both received one before her father walked back to his desk.

"Great observation, James. Indeed, it is a mandrake leaf," her father said, leaning against his desk with his arms crossed. He nodded towards them. "For the next thirty days, you will keep it under your tongue."

Gwen was the first to comply, experiencing the strange sensation of having it under her tongue. She shrugged it off, observing Sirius wink at her as he followed suit.

"What happens if you take it out before?" Peter asked, sounding uncertain.

"Then you'll have to start all over again until you keep it under your tongue for thirty days exactly," her father explained.

"We what?" James exclaimed, as the other three children held small crystal phials in different colors.

"You'll spit the mandrake leaf and a piece of your hair inside it," Declan explained.

He had arrived home just as the thirty days were up, picking up Gwen and James. Sirius and Peter had come over to move on to the next part of the transformation. Breaking the seal and removing the cork from the glass white bottle, Gwen quickly spat the leaf into the bottle and plucked one of her hairs to place inside. Being the first to finish, she handed it over to her father, who poured the liquid into the glass bottle and handed it back to her.

An entire month of keeping the mandrake leaf under her tongue had proven to be a challenging task. It made talking, eating, and drinking difficult. Fortunately, being at home and not at Hogwarts meant she didn't have to worry about people noticing her strange behavior. Plugging the cork back into the bottle, she looked up to see that they had all completed the second and third steps of becoming an animagus.

"The next step is to do this every day for a full seven days. Then, on that day, you will put a chrysalis inside the bottle and place it in a dark place," Declan instructed. "I have already taken the task of gathering them for you."

"Thank you so much for helping us, Father," Gwen said, placing her bottle back onto his desk. "This means a great deal to all of us."

"With Voldemort threatening a war, I believe this to be a means to protect yourself," Declan said, the atmosphere growing quiet and solemn.

"I wonder if I'll become a dragon!" James boasted, attempting to shift the conversation.

Sirius snorted. "You have a higher chance of being a bear than a dragon."

Ignoring the debate between the three boys, Gwen's eyes drifted towards the four bottles—white, red, blue, and green—that sat neatly on her father's desk. The decision to become animagi had arisen purely by coincidence due to their desire to help Remus during his monthly changes. Yet, now there was an added benefit to becoming an animagus in the face of a growing war that threatened the lives of anyone who wasn't a pureblood.

"What animal do you think you would be?" Peter's question pulled her out of her thoughts. She noticed that all three boys, including her father, were watching her.

"An otter," she replied.

After that, they were allowed to retire to bed as it was already late. Remus went to his room with the books he had brought from the library, while Peter went to his own room. Gwen left the study, knowing that her father had other matters to discuss with James and Sirius. Wishing everyone a goodnight, she made her way to her bedroom located in the east wing tower, while the boys stayed in the corridor nearby.

Declan leaned against the front of his desk, crossing his arms as he observed James and Sirius seated in leather chairs. Since he had asked both boys to watch over his daughter while she was away from home, he had witnessed their bond growing stronger.

"Voldemort is growing in power and recruiting politicians to join his cause. I'll be gone more often and unable to be there for my daughter," Declan began.

James knew where this conversation was headed. "You're asking us to always have one of us stay with her, correct? What about Jack?"

"I have already had this discussion with Jack before he started his first year, as well as his Father has highlighted the importance of being careful." Declan nodded. "Not only does she trust you, but she also holds you two in high regard. I trust you both to keep her safe and protect her while I'm gone. I can't lose her like I lost her mother."

Swallowing, he thought about it, his eyes immediately traveling towards the portrait of her Mother. The woman in the painting sat in the arm chair smiling as she drank tea. "Of course, it's to protect Gwen, right?" Sirius assured him, his loyalty shining through.

Declan nodded appreciatively. "Your devotion to my daughter outweighs the devotion you hold for your family," he pointed out, recognizing Sirius's genuine commitment.

Sirius bit his lip and hesitated before speaking. "I actually have to tell you about an event that took place right before we left Hogwarts," he finally confessed.

Declan's interest piqued, and he urged Sirius to continue.

For the next thirty minutes, Sirius poured his heart out, recounting the relentless harassment he had endured from his older cousin, Bellatrix. She had been trying to convince him to deceive Gwen and use her to gain favor with other pure-blood families. But now, with this new information about death eaters, Sirius suspected that his cousin was conspiring with some of them.

"Blimey mate!" James exclaimed, shocked. "Why didn't you tell me about this?"

Sirius exhaled, his voice tinged with weariness. "I didn't feel the need to, as I don't want to dwell on my family more than I have to."

James understood and respected Sirius's desire for privacy. "So, this is where you got those injuries," he remarked, referring to the marks he had noticed on Sirius but had chosen not to inquire about.

Sirius's expression turned solemn. "My mother told me that if I could convince Gwen to align her family with ours or the Malfoys, then I wouldn't be such a disappointment and tarnish the Noble name of Black."

"You have a home here with the Donoghue clan. You have a good heart, Sirius, and a strong sense of right and wrong. You can always come here if you need to get away from it all," Declan assured him, expressing his sympathy for the pressure Sirius's family had placed on him.

"Thank you," Sirius replied, his voice filled with gratitude.

James leaned over and slapped Sirius hard on the back, a wide smile on his face. "The same goes for my family, mate. You're practically family already."

Overwhelmed by emotions, Sirius felt a lump forming in his throat. Sitting in a leather chair, he hid his face behind his hair and clenched his fists, trying to hold back tears. Taking a deep breath, he bit his tongue, hoping to keep his composure.

"Thank you so much," Sirius managed to say, his voice cracking as tears streamed down his cheeks.

Declan patted him on the head, and James gave him a lopsided grin as his glasses slid down his nose.

"You two should get some rest. You've had a long day and need some rest. I still have work to do, so I'll still be up," Declan suggested, caring for their well-being.

Both boys nodded, bidding him goodnight, and left the room. However, Sirius backtracked and stood in the doorway of the study. Declan looked up and locked eyes with the boy.

"I solemnly vow on my life that I'll never betray your daughter, yourself, and the Donoghue name as long as I still draw breath on this earth," Sirius declared, his voice filled with determination.

Declan smiled warmly. "I have faith in you, Sirius. I believe you'll keep your vow."

Leaving his own room behind, Sirius embarked on a determined journey to his destination. He was certain that she would still be awake, and the soft glow escaping from beneath her door confirmed his intuition. Summoning his courage, he tapped gently on the door before he could second-guess himself.

"Come in," Gwen's inviting voice drifted through the door.

Without hesitation, Sirius stepped inside.

As he closed the door behind him, his gaze turned to Gwen, who sat at her vanity, clad in a muggle band shirt and shorts. She brushed her hair, humming to herself, completely unaware of his presence. The moment their eyes met through the reflection in the mirror, the floodgates holding back Sirius's tears finally gave way. Overwhelmed, he dropped her brush and Gwen hurriedly rushed towards him, meeting him halfway as he crumbled into her embrace.

Sirius found himself on his knees, unable to contain his emotions any longer.

Gwen wrapped her arms around his neck, providing a sanctuary of solace. Her fingers delicately ran through his long hair, while her head rested against his, offering him unwavering support. It reminded him of the time he had been there for her, when she sought comfort in the depths of sorrow within the astronomy tower. With a tender smile, she used her other hand to soothe his trembling shoulders.

"When the night has cast its shadows and darkness envelops the land...when the moon alone illuminates our path," she softly sang, her voice a balm to his soul. "No, I will not fear. Oh, I will not fear...as long as you stand, stand by me. So my dear, my dear...stand by me."

Those lyrics provided solace, perfectly capturing the essence of their unique and special friendship. Sirius held onto her, hoping she couldn't hear the fast beating of his heart or move away anytime soon to see his flushed face.

The air was alive with the melodious laughter of the blonde woman as she gracefully navigated the cobblestone streets of 70's London, her arms adorned with shopping bags. Beside her, a young girl matched her step, carrying a vibrant assortment of bags that added bursts of color and size to their muggle attire. There was an undeniable sense of enchantment as they strolled through the bustling city.

Aunt Maeve wore a mischievous grin as she suggested, "My dear, we must appease our hunger with a delectable lunch."

Gwen nodded eagerly, her stomach growling in agreement after a day filled with shopping adventures. They found themselves in an outdoor cafe, basking in the warm glow of the sun.

Surprisingly, despite the late hour, the cozy cafe was peacefully quiet, allowing them to find a secluded table after placing their orders. Their bags found temporary homes on the chairs beside them, and with beaming faces, they turned to face each other.

"I couldn't be more thrilled about your incredible first year at Hogwarts," Aunt Maeve exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with pride.

"I'm honestly grateful for Jamie and Jack's company. It made fitting in a bit easier," Gwen replied, her gratitude evident.

Aunt Maeve smiled, her voice filled with nostalgia, "Oh, to be young and carefree."

Gwen mirrored her aunt's smile, gently retorting, "You are young and carefree, Maeve."

Gwen's uncle had embarked on an internship in France during his sixth and seventh year. It was during this time that he met Aunt Maeve, and their love story began. Maeve soon became pregnant with Gwen's cousin, Jack. They wasted no time and got married, while he finished school. Maeve moved to Ireland, where her grandparents resided, and gave birth to Gwen's older cousin nine months later. Maeve's parents frequently visited them, showering Jack with gifts as he was their only grandson. Gwen couldn't help but feel a pang of envy, wishing her own grandparents were around.

"Maeve, do you think you could convince Dad to invite my grandparents over for Christmas break this year?" Gwen asked hopefully.

A flicker of concern crossed Maeve's face before she replied, "I will try, but you know how he feels about them."

"I don't expect a miracle, but I do hope he'll at least consider it," Gwen said wistfully, before changing the topic. "Do you think we've shopped enough for my new wardrobe, or have we missed a few things?"

Maeve, who ran her own boutique for witch's clothing, had an impeccable eye for fashion. She also shared a love for muggle rock music with her own mother. "I believe all the witches will be green with envy when they see your new wardrobe," she said with a smile. "If anyone asks, tell them to stop by my boutique."

"Always," Gwen responded happily.

Their food arrived - fish and chips with club sodas. They chatted and laughed, sharing stories about the recent Garden Party and Gwen's encounter with Mrs. Malfoy. Maeve mentioned her desire to visit her parents in France during the upcoming school term.

After finishing their meal, they gathered their bags and stepped out into the bustling streets of muggle London. The gloomy weather had brightened while they were inside, and the streets glistened from a recent rainfall. Hand in hand, they navigated through the busy crowds, until the crumbling bricks unveiled the lively hustle and bustle of Diagon Alley.

Parents with their children were busy shopping for the upcoming term, a task Gwen had yet to complete. But that was precisely why they were here - to prepare for the exciting days ahead.

As they entered Madam Malkin's shop for new robes and uniforms, Gwen's eyes immediately fell on Jackie, who stood atop a pedestal, getting measured by the skilled seamstress.

"Gwen!" Jackie exclaimed with a bright smile, waving enthusiastically towards the mirror. Gwen made her way towards her, returning the wave. They couldn't embrace due to the circumstances. "I'd recognize that hair anywhere!"

Gwen introduced her Aunt Maeve, saying, "Jackie, this is my Aunt Maeve. Maeve, this is Jackie, one of the friends I made last term."

"It's a pleasure to meet you, Jackie," Maeve greeted, shaking her hand. "It's nice to meet one of Gwen's female friends."

Jackie grinned mischievously at Gwen and said, "I take it you've spent a lot of time with Sirius, haven't you?"

Gwen groaned, causing Maeve and Jackie to burst into laughter. "Don't you have your own love life to focus on?" she retorted playfully.

"Oh, I do!" Jackie exclaimed, causing Madam Malkin to tsk at her. "But I can't help but notice the chemistry between you two."

Gwen's face flushed pink, and she glared at her Aunt. "You've betrayed me," she accused, though a playful smile tugged at her lips.

Maeve joined in the teasing, watching her niece's reaction through the mirror. "It explains why he follows you around," she remarked, her eyes gleaming with amusement.

Gwen sighed, realizing she couldn't escape their playful banter. "You both have conspired against me," she muttered, unable to hide her own smile. "But let's focus on finding the perfect robes for another amazing year."

As the sun started to set, Maeve and Gwen finally arrived back at the cozy manor, their arms weighed down by an array of shopping bags. Minky, her trusty companion, swiftly took charge of the bags, hurrying off to wash the clothes before embarking on the task of packing her belongings. Meanwhile, all of her supplies were carefully stowed away in her room.

With heartfelt farewells exchanged, her Aunt disappeared through the magical floo network, leaving Gwen to prepare for bedtime. As fate would have it, Gwen found herself alone in the house, her father having rushed off to attend to an unexpected work emergency.

After completing her bedtime routine, Gwen sank into her soft bed, her fingers idly toying with the enchanting charms adorning her bracelet. Each charm held a story, a memory, and she couldn't help but marvel at the three new additions Sirius had masterfully welded onto the bracelet. A smile danced upon her lips as she closed her eyes, anticipation bubbling within her. The start of the new term was just a few days away, and her excitement brimmed, eager to dive headfirst into the wonders and challenges that awaited her.