It was mid-October and today was their first Hogsmeade weekend. The sun's golden rays peeked through the curtains shining brightly in the dormitory, gently rousing Emily from her peaceful slumber. With a contented sigh, she stretched her arms above her head, feeling the warmth envelop her in a cozy embrace. As she blinked away the remnants of sleep, a smile tugged at her lips, anticipation bubbling within her for the day ahead.
There was little chatter in the room as the other girls were also waking. Near the mirrored vanity sat two of them whispering softly to not wake her, with the occasional look back for the others as they woke too. There was Daphne, a curtain of her fluffy blonde hair billowing down her back, not yet handled for the day.
"Morning girls!" she called out sitting up and stretching once more.
"Good morning, sunshine!" Daphne chirped, her eyes twinkling with mischief from the other side of the room.
"You're up early," laughed Emily rolling out of bed, her feet padding across the soft carpet cushioning her every step. "Why are you so cheerful?"
"Emmy," she said turning dramatically in her chair. "Arlo asked me a few days ago to be his date on today's Hogsmeade visit. I must look amazing, and I will look amazing!"
"Arlo? The Ravenclaw?"
"Yes, Arlo from Ravenclaw," Daphne replied, her cheeks flushing pink with excitement. "He's so charming and intelligent, I can't believe he asked me out!" There were many flips of her hair as she tried different styles. Emily chuckled, her eyes twinkling mischievously.
"Oh, Daph, I didn't know you had a soft spot for bookworms. I thought you preferred the Quidditch players."
Daphne rolled her eyes playfully. "Oh, hush. Arlo plays Quidditch too, so he's not just any bookworm. He's different, you know?"
Emily grinned sensing the happiness that escaped out. "Sure, sure. Just make sure he doesn't bore you to death with talk of arithmancy or something."
Daphne swatted Emily playfully with her makeup brush. "Oh, stop it. I'm sure we'll have a great time in Hogsmeade today. And who knows, maybe you'll catch the eye of a certain someone too. You know maybe… David…."
Emily laughed, shaking her head. "I highly doubt that. David is supposed to stay at the castle to supervise the first and second years. But I'm happy for you, Daphne. Have fun on your date with Arlo."
As the girls continued to chat and get ready for their day in Hogsmeade, Emily couldn't help but feel a pang of excitement herself. Who knew what surprises the day would bring, both for Daphne and for her.
She hummed a tune under her breath, her heart light with the promise of a new day. Glancing at the clock, she realized she had just enough time for her morning ritual before some breakfast.
With a quick shower and a splash of her favorite floral-scented body wash, Emily was ready to conquer the day as she used her wand to air dry her hair faster. It was a handy spell she learned from one of the Hufflepuffs last year and it worked wonders for all the girls in the mornings now. It was even more magical than them, most girls professed.
Emily stood before her mirror, surveying her reflection with a critical eye. Her long, dark chocolate-black hair cascaded in loose waves down her back, framing her round face, though still a slight bit wet. She dabbed on a touch of rosy lip gloss and a spritz of her signature perfume, a sweet and playful scent that never failed to lift her spirits. Her hazel eyes, a striking blend of green and brown hues, sparkled with mischief and intelligence, mirroring the same captivating gaze as her brother when he would pay attention in class. Or so she heard anyway from Sirius.
Laughing under her breath, she walked back to the dorm, her hair quickly drying the rest of the way. As she walked through the Common Room many turned to watch her making her blush. With a keen eye for fashion inherited from her stylish best friend, she effortlessly put together a unique sense of style and personality. A familiar knock on the door interrupted her thoughts. Daphne's vibrant blonde hair was braided down into a mermaid tail that stood out against the shining light behind her.
"Ready to take on the day with me?"
"You always take the day on, no matter the weather," smiled Emily pulling her jacket on over her shoulder. Readjusting the skirt hugging her hips, she felt Daphne walk up tugging at her collar.
"Girl! Show some skin!" she urged unbuttoning the top two revealing the skin of her collar. Gulping, she felt exposed but oddly empowered. This was how Daphne dressed all the time, but it was different for her.
"There! They won't be able to resist you any more than they already do!"
"DAPH!" shrieked Emily, letting out a loud laugh as they turned away, a large tote bag under Daphne's arm, and smaller coin purse in Emily's jacket pocket.
A melodious sound that filled the space with warmth and joy was heard as they walked through the Common Room. With a playful twirl, she linked arms with Daphne, the two of them already planning their day of adventure and laughter. As they continued their way to the Great Hall, Emily couldn't shake the feeling of eyes on her. She glanced down at the skin of her collar showing, suddenly self-conscious and wondering if that was the reason many boys were ogling them.
Daphne, striding confidently beside her, noticed Emily's sudden change in demeanor and gave her a knowing look. "You know, Emily," she said, a mischievous glint in her eyes. "Well, you already know David is watching you. Why not make him work for your affection?" She nudged Emily playfully, encouraging her to walk with the same confidence and allure.
Emily blushed at Daphne's words, feeling a flutter of nervousness in her stomach. She had always been somewhat naive when it came to romance, having had limited experience in that area. That's why she asked Sirius for help with it, but she had noticed recently how he was becoming heated in their exchanges. Emily believed that the reason for his concern was rooted in the potential awkwardness that would ensue if they were ever found out, especially considering his worry about James discovering the truth. The thought of intentionally trying to capture someone's attention was both exhilarating and intimidating to her. Was she getting Sirius's attention in this way? Thinking back on her kiss with him before school, reminded her such how important their friendship was.
"I don't know, Daphne," Emily replied softly, her cheeks growing warmer. "I'm not sure I know how to do that. What if I mess it up?" She fidgeted with the hem of her sleeve, unsure of how to navigate this new territory of flirting and attracting someone's interest. But Daphne just smiled encouragingly, assuring her that she had nothing to worry about.
"Just be yourself, Emily," Daphne said, her voice gentle but firm. "You're a catch, trust me. And if David is already watching you, then all you need to do is show him a little more of what makes you so special. You've got this."
Emily nodded, a sense of determination growing within her. Maybe it was time for her to step out of her comfort zone and explore this new side of herself. With a newfound confidence, she straightened her posture and walked a little taller, ready to face whatever the day had in store for her. Making their way through the bustling corridor and down the stairs, they were suddenly approached by Arlo, his brown hair lightly bouncing in step with his walking. He had been waiting at the bottom of the staircase, something that Daphne had told her repeatedly in the dorm. He sidled up to them, falling into step beside Emily with a friendly grin.
"Hey there, Emily, Daphne," Arlo greeted them, his tone casual yet slightly flirtatious. He leaned in a little too close, his words laced with subtle charm that didn't go unnoticed by either girl. Emily's heart skipped a beat at the attention, feeling a rush of excitement at the prospect of being the object of someone's affections, however knowing this was aimed more at her friend. Daphne shot her a knowing look, a small smirk playing at the corner of her lips as she observed the interaction. Despite Arlo's proximity, Emily didn't pull away, instead leaning in slightly as she engaged in the conversation. His easy manner and charming personality had a magnetic pull on her, drawing her in with a sense of curiosity and interest.
"You know, Emily, I've always admired your kindness towards everyone," Arlo remarked, his eyes meeting hers with a glint of admiration. "It's quite refreshing."
Emily's cheeks reddened at the compliment, a shy smile playing on her lips. "Thank you, Arlo. That means a lot coming from you." She couldn't help but feel a flutter of excitement at his words, the warmth in her chest growing as she continued to engage in conversation with him. His eyes lingered on Daphne though as he flashed a charming smile at her, his green eyes twinkling with mischief.
"You're looking lovely as always. Mind if I join you ladies for the walk down to Hogsmeade?" he said, his playful tone causing Daphne to giggle softly as her cheeks flushed pink at his compliment.
"Of course. The more, the merrier," she replied, her voice light and flirtatious. She subtly moved closer to him as they walked, enjoying the easy camaraderie that was building between them.
Emily watched their interaction with a mix of fascination and admiration. She couldn't deny the chemistry between Daphne and Arlo, the way they effortlessly bantered and shared knowing looks that hinted at a deeper connection. It was clear to her now why she liked him so much – Arlo had a way of making her friend light up in a way she hadn't seen before.
As they walked together, the conversation flowed easily, with Arlo engaging both girls in lively discussion and witty remarks. Emily found herself drawn to his confident demeanor and intelligent insights, feeling a spark of attraction sizzle in the air around them. She found herself laughing at Arlo's jokes and enjoying the playful banter between them.
Daphne and Arlo stopped a moment to speak privately as Emily nodded, she would meet them for Butterbeers later. Blushing behind her hand, she turned her attention toward the stained-glass window lining the way to the Great Hall. There was a growing crowd and a bolstering noise coming from down the hall as Emily walked on her way there, her arms linked together holding her bag. Stopping a moment to chat with a pair of first year Hufflepuffs who were lost, they looked up to see a sea of students surrounding the entrance to the Great Hall. Some had managed to untangle from whatever was happening.
"What's going on?" questioned Emily, trying to catch another student as they left up the stairs.
"It's the sixth year boys fighting again," said one tall red head with blue lined robes scoffing. She pointed at a crowd as the voices grew louder. It was rougher tone, but no spells were flying yet.
"James would typically fight his own battles, but he seems to have taken a back seat allowing Sirius to do so lately," said another girl beside the first brushing her long brown hair back. "You'd think poor Remus would have them under control."
"Maybe Lily finally knocked some sense into James," laughed the first girl.
"I doubt that!" agreed the second girl. "James has been following Lily like a lost puppy!"
Emily weaved through the crowd and saw the pair of boys were standing about a meter from each other, their hands gripping their wands tightly but muttering no spells.
"What's so funny Black?! Got something witty to say?" barked David readjusting his sweater as it bunched up above his hips. Emily could see his black belt holding up his jeans and a tucked white shirt under the green sweater. "You're just so eager to jump into an argument. It's almost like you enjoy it!"
Sirius frowned, raising an eyebrow. "At least I'm not afraid to speak my mind. All you do is swagger around like you own the place!"
"You're just mad because I have something you want!" remarked David laughing encouraging his Slytherin peers to join him. "Or is this about something different, or dare I say someone else?"
Sirius blushed vividly, walking right up into David's face.
"Oh, have I struck a nerve," the Slytherin grinned holding up his arms to stop him. "Can't believe I'm with her?"
Visibly, Sirius's face contorted as he grabbed David's front and threw him down, preparing to strike. The tension between them crackled in the air, drawing the attention of more students at the doors. Whispers and murmurs filled the hall as everyone watched the two sparring unfold on the floor. David and Sirius were quite literally throwing their hands into each other's faces as the Head Boy got between them pulling them apart.
"You don't know anything! You don't know anything about her hopes and dreams. You're a slimy, disgusting, vile piece of trash Luke!" His voice dropped to a low growl as he pushed his hair back, feeling the Head Boy's hand on his chest. The senior classman, taking notice he wasn't fighting him, tried with all his might to hold David back. Trying to push it away the cautiously placed hand, Sirius took a few steps backwards as he regained his footing.
David leaned in closer, his eyes blazing with determination behind the Head Boy's firmly placed arm. His tidy clothes were covered in dust and dirt from the floor and had resulted in his top being untucked wildly. "And you don't know her, either. You don't know what I can offer her instead of you! Weak willed man without a name or house to call his own. So don't go thinking you have me all figured out. Because you are nothing Sirius Black!"
"What do you think you're doing with Emily?" he growled, his eyes narrowed as he glared at the Slytherin. "She's not even your type. You prefer women who don't fight back, women who want you to spoil them, women who demand your entire being!"
Someone closest to Emily turned sideways whispering to the person behind them and warily pointed at her then the boys. Others seemed to grasp onto her name as it came out of Sirius's mouth. David smirked though, his back to Emily, clearly enjoying the tension he had caused.
"Just making conversation is all. And with a beautiful girl, how can I resist her— personality –" he replied nonchalantly, though it was clear to Emily that the underlying meaning was simmering dangerously close to the surface.
Feeling caught in the middle of their rowdy battle, the Head Boy shifted uncomfortably, unsure of how to navigate the treacherous waters between the two boys. The air around them grew charged with rivalry and unspoken desires, leaving her with a sense of foreboding as she tried to walk forward to stop them. Everyone fell silent as the two boys faced off, their words hanging between them like a challenge. The only thing heard was the panting of the Head Boy as his head spun on a swivel. Finally, Sirius broke the tension with a bitter laugh, sighing and resigning this fight.
"I've made her life the best and you can't take that away," spat out Sirius looking around, his eyes finding Emily and growing wide. She was frowning slightly as her eyes bounced between the two. "You can't make her happy either. Not truly anyway"
"You don't know her at all!" shouted David trying to get pass the Head Boy, who struggled to hold him at bay. "You're just a sad asshole!"
Finally getting around the Head Boy's arm and taking aim, Sirius jumped back feeling David's wand brush against his stomach, letting out a spark of fire. Throwing his arm up to mutter a shield charm, a loud pop erupted around the three as they were sent flying backwards.
"ENOUGH!" roared the Head Boy, his wand glowing from a similar shield charm. "Both of you! Forty points from Gryffindor and fifty from Slytherin! Fighting is unacceptable and you act like the prefect you are!"
David eyed him, seeming to come to a silent understanding as the Head Boy pointed a finger into his chest while Sirius brushed off his jacket walking off in a huff. Pushing his way through the throng of people standing around, and grabbing the crook of Emily's elbow, he pulled her out the large, opened doors toward the courtyard leading them toward Hogsmeade.
"Go on everyone!" shouted the Head Boy as Sirius and Emily rounded the corner. Her heart was pounding in her ribs at the proximity between them as he practically dragged them down the path away from the castle. They remained quiet for the thirty-minute walk, his hand still firmly covering hers. Finally reaching the crossing bridge, he stopped, they both panting at the quicken pace they had done.
"What the hell Sirius! You can't just drag me halfway then not explain yourself!"
He walked toward the side of the bridge motioning for her to join him. Blowing her hair from her face, she followed as he sat down on the grass where he was a few inches from the water below. Sirius was sighing heavily, trying to even out his breathing too, probably thinking about the heated confrontation.
"What was all that about?" she whispered sitting beside him. "Sirius!"
Turning to face her, he rounded on Emily holding her in place, his fingers wrapped in her bunched hair. Trying to say his name, she was stunned as to their closeness. His eyes were staring into hers, and he was breathing heavily as though trying to find the words to speak, but unable to do so. Just then, his familiar scent of citrus swathed around her nose, his face solemn and troubled. With a roguish sparkle in his eyes and a reputation for stirring up trouble, he sat there with an air of seriousness that caught Emily off guard.
"Sirius," she asked him cautiously again, studying his expression for any signs of hostility. "What was that about?"
He hesitated for a moment before tightening his grip around her cheeks, feeling the feminine curve to it as his gaze met hers with a mix of hesitation and sincerity.
"Emily, what happened earlier with Luke," he began, his voice tinged with a hint of remorse. "I... I think things may have gotten out of hand."
Emily's confusion deepened as she listened to Sirius's words, her mind racing to make sense of the situation.
"What do you mean, out of hand? You were nearly caught on fire!?" she questioned pushing him back onto the grass her voice tinged with concern. Sirius shifted uncomfortably, his eyes avoiding hers for a moment before meeting her gaze with a steely determination once more.
"It's complicated, Emily. But it may have had something to do with... well, with you," he admitted, his words coming out in a rush. Her eyes widened in surprise at his revelation, her mind racing to connect the dots. "I mean I'm sure you heard part of it."
"With me?" she repeated, her voice barely above a whisper. She looked over their shoulders back at the bridge in case anyone saw them. "Was it because of our kiss?"
"No of course not!" he uttered, feeling his voice rise in rage as he sat up. "I would, absolutely, never admit to that sorry ass that I kissed you! And I never will! That's mine and yours alone!"
Sirius's expression softened as he slowed his head, his gaze fixed on her with a mix of regret and pride.
"I just don't understand why he must always take your attention all the time. AND he flounces it about in arrogance. It pisses me off and I don't enjoy hearing about how others want you either. It just feels wrong to me and I don't like this feeling."
Emily crossed her arms upset by his actions but recalled the nervousness he had around her too. Unsure if it was caused by James but his actions didn't match his words in this moment.
"I didn't realize the extent of his feelings until today, but I can see now that it struck a nerve."
A heavy silence settled between them as she absorbed his words, her heart sinking with the weight of their implications. She had known that Sirius was possessive and fiercely loyal, but she hadn't anticipated the depth of his feelings for her or the lengths he would go to protect their relationship.
"You said that David preferred women who don't fight back, women who want him to spoil them, women who demand his entire being?"
Sirius nodded slowly; his expression pained. "Yes, and I can't stand the thought of you being with someone like that. You deserve so much more. You deserve someone who sees you for who you truly are, who values your strength and independence, who loves you for everything that you are."
Tears welled up in Emily's eyes as she listened to Sirius's heartfelt confession. She reached out and took his hand, giving it a reassuring squeeze. "Thank you, Sirius. I... I didn't realize you felt this way."
Sirius smiled sadly, his thumb caressing the back of her hand. "I've been trying to find the right time to tell you, but I never seemed to have the courage. I just couldn't bear the thought of losing you to someone like Luke."
Emily felt a rush of emotions as she looked into Sirius's eyes, seeing the vulnerability and sincerity in them. She knew then that her feelings for him ran deeper than she had ever imagined. And as they stood there in the secluded corner of the crossing bridge, their hands intertwined, she knew that their bond was stronger than any words could express.
"I can't lose you to someone like Luke," he whimpered holding back a sniffle.
Emily's heart ached at the vulnerability in his voice. Reaching out to pull him into a tight embrace, she felt him shaking. "You won't lose me, Sirius. I'm here, and I'm not going anywhere." Her voice was soft and soothing, hoping to calm his fears and reassure him of her feelings. Sirius wrapped his arms around her tightly, his grip almost desperate as though he was afraid, she would disappear if he let go.
"I just... I can't bear the thought of you with him, Emily. He doesn't deserve you. You deserve so much better, so much more." His words were choked with emotion, his chest heaving with the weight of his feelings.
Emily held him closer, feeling the warmth of his body against hers, the steady rhythm of his breathing as he tried to regain control of his emotions. His shaking was getting worse and there little she felt she could do to calm him in this state but try she would. Lightly pushing his shaggy hair from his face, she saw tears staining his face, his eyes very red.
"I understand, Sirius," she said brushing the tears with her thumb. "And I appreciate you looking out for me, for caring so deeply. But please, trust me. I know what's best for me. David's my friend, nothing more. And I choose you."
Sirius pulled back slightly, his stormy grey eyes searching hers for any sign of doubt or hesitation. Finding none, he let out a shaky breath, a small smile tugging at the corners of his lips. "You choose me?"
Emily nodded, a soft smile playing on her own lips.
"Yes, Sirius. I choose you."
And in that moment, as they stood there on the grass, listening to the sounds of running water near their feet, their hearts beating as one. Their love stronger than any obstacle that may come their way. The morning sun filtered through the clouds, casting a warm glow over the two of them. They knew and vowed to hold onto it, to cherish it, and to never let it go. For in each other, they had found love, trust, and a connection that would withstand any trial that may come their way. Staring deeply into each other's eyes with faces inches apart, their breaths mingling in the small space between them. Each could feel the other's heartbeat, pounding in sync with their own.
But as their lips slowly inched closer, a wave of fear washed over them. They both knew that crossing this line would change everything between them. It would mean acknowledging the depths of their feelings, the longing that had been growing stronger with each passing day.
Emily's hand trembled as she reached up to gently cup Sirius's cheek, her touch soft and tentative. Sirius closed his eyes, savoring the warmth of her palm. He wanted nothing more than to lean in and capture her lips, just as that first time at the Potter's home and the many times in the library.
But a voice inside him whispered a warning, reminding him of all the reasons why this could never work. There would be no turning back. They were from different worlds, with different obligations and responsibilities.
So, they sat there in silence, their lips almost touching, but unable to bridge the final gap between them. The unspoken words hung heavy in the air, the emotions swirling between them, too intense to be put into words. And in that moment of hesitation, they both knew that the fear of what it would mean was stronger than their desire to give in to the overwhelming pull of their hearts. So, they parted, the moment fading into the memory of what could have been.
"Thank you for telling me, Sirius," she finally said, her voice soft with gratitude as they returned to the main path onward to Hogsmeade. "I'll try to talk to David and try to clear things up. I don't want you to feel threatened or hurt because of me. Certainly not caught on fire!"
Sirius nodded in understanding, a faint smile tugging at the corners of his lips. "I think that would be for the best, Emily. Luke may be a Slytherin, but just be careful, alright? He's as dangerous as he is passionate in his endeavors."
The pair of them casually walked side by side, weaving their way through the crowded streets of Hogsmeade, laughter and chatter blending with the sounds of the bustling village. As they passed by Honeydukes, Sirius noticed Emily's eyes light up at the sight of the colorful window displays. He couldn't help but smile at her excitement.
"Wanna stop in?" he said as they paused allowing a group of students to rush past them to enter the candy store. Nodding quickly, Sirius glanced around to make sure no was watching, and discreetly reached out and gently squeezed her hand. Emily's heart skipped a beat at the unexpected touch, her cheeks flushing pink. She turned to look at Sirius, finding his grey eyes filled with a warmth and something more that made her stomach flutter.
"Thanks," she whispered, giving his hand a subtle squeeze in return as he opened the door guiding her in. As they stepped into the sweet-smelling shop, he insisted on buying her favorite chocolates and candies. Protesting, Sirius waved off her objections with a grin, enjoying the chance to spoil her. Placing a protective hand on her lower back as they walked closely through the throng of students each happily picking out items to buy. Near the corner was Daphne and Arlo who were in deep conversation, seemingly ignoring everything around them.
Emily noticed the exchange between them, a knowing smile playing on her lips. Sensing an opportunity, she excused herself to browse a nearby table, taking Sirius who was looking at Pumpkin Pasties to leave. Amid the colorful displays and the sounds of laughter and chatter around them, they shared a moment of sweetness and care, their friendship deepening into something more as they laughed and spoke in hushed tones in the Three Broomsticks over a shared Butterbeer or two. Emily couldn't help but feel a warmth growing in her heart for the boy who had unknowingly captured her attention as they sat in a secluded corner simply talking about anything, the sun leisurely fading from the sky.
As they continued their stroll through Hogsmeade together, the sounds of the bustling village faded into the background, leaving only the gentle hum of their shared connection. They explored the winding streets, popping into shops to admire the displays and trying on quirky wizarding hats for fun. Hand in hand through the charming streets, the twinkling lights of the shops and the warm glow of the lanterns overhead bathed the cobblestone streets in a cozy ambiance, creating a perfect backdrop for their leisurely walk. Sirius and Emily's laughter mingled with the chatter of fellow students and the occasional hoot of an owl passing by. The sun was beginning to fully set, and the twilight stars were popping out one by the thousand.
"Isn't this just magical?" Emily exclaimed, her voice filled with delight pointing out the faint stars above their heads. "I love coming to Hogsmeade, especially with you by my side, Sirius."
Sirius grinned, his heart swelling with affection for the girl beside him.
"I couldn't agree more," he replied, gently brushing a lock of hair off of her face. "I never felt the way I do when I'm with you," Sirius confessed, his heart laid bare as he gazed at the girl who had captured his soul.
With every step they took, fueled by the simple joy of being together in a place that felt like home. The soft glow of the lamps illuminated their path, casting a warm halo around them as they savored the magic of the moment. The sky above them was a canvas of twinkling stars, shining brightly in the velvety darkness. Paused for a moment and gazing up at the celestial display above them, they felt a sense of awe at the vastness of the universe and the beauty of the night sky.
"Wow, look at all those stars," Emily murmured, her eyes wide with wonder. She hugged him tightly feeling very giddy as she also looked into his gray eyes. "It's like we're surrounded by magic, even outside of Hogwarts."
Sirius nodded in agreement, his gaze fixed on the shimmering constellations above and down to her sparkling hazel eyes in return. "It's moments like this that make you realize how small we are in the grand scheme of things," he mused, a hint of introspection in his voice.
Making out the subtle change in her eyes, he tenderly pulled her completely against his chest, their lips finally meeting under the starlit night. The soft glow of the moon cast a silvery sheen over the grounds creating a serene and almost otherworldly atmosphere. As they stood in the quiet embrace of the night, the stars twinkling overhead and the moon casting a soft glow around them, Sirius and Emily felt the unspoken bond as hands firmly refused to let go.
As they crossed the threshold of Hogwarts, the familiar sight of the towering castle bathed in moonlight greeted them, welcoming them back to their magical home. There was a group of students standing around in a line waiting to be cleared. A slight breeze had wrapped around the students as they waited, taking step by step closer to the gate. Sirius and Emily stood closer to avoid being separated and block the brisk breeze that surrounded them.
"Names?" asked Professor Flitwick holding a long sheet of parchment paper as they arrived at the front. There standing behind him was David holding up his wand for light. He wore a scowl on his face, he clearly remembering back to that morning's fight with Sirius.
"Sirius Black and Emily Potter," said Sirius pocketing his hands to admit defeat.
"You are past curfew by fifteen minutes," commented Professor Flitwick looking at his pocket watch. "You know the rules both of you. For the number of minutes late, those points are deducted. Please be aware of that for next time. Fifteen points from Gryffindor, Mr. Black."
There was a firmness in his tone, but he sighed softly as he eyed Emily.
"However, Miss Potter, did you have prefect duties today in the village?"
Shaking her head, she piped out, "I didn't Professor. I was told my duties would fall within November's allowed visits."
"In that case, you too will have those same points deducted. Please be mindful of that for next time. Off you both go."
Nodding, they hurried back inside all the way to Gryffindor tower even being stopped by Professor McGonagall who was holding a similar length piece of parchment. As they stood before her, the truth hung heavy in the air as they mustered up the courage to explain what had transpired. Taking a deep breath, Sirius spoke up, "Professor McGonagall, we were late coming back from Hogsmeade, and Professor Flitwick already docked us points for it. We apologize for breaking curfew. We were on our way to the common room."
Professor McGonagall regarded them both with a mixture of surprise and understanding. She listened attentively to Sirius's explanation, her expression softening slightly as she processed the information. Truthfulness was a key value in Gryffindor House, and she appreciated the students' honesty in admitting their mistake.
"Thank you for being honest with me, Mr. Black, Miss Potter," Professor McGonagall said, her voice softer yet retaining its authority. "While I appreciate your honesty, breaking curfew is still a serious offense. I see you both have already been deducted by Professor Flitwick."
Sirius and Emily nodded, accepting the consequences of their actions with a sense of responsibility. They knew that honesty was important, but it did not exempt them from the rules they had broken. Professor McGonagall's acknowledgment of their truthfulness resonated with them, and they knew that they had at least earned some respect by owning up to their mistake.
"We are sorry and will be mindful for next time, Professor," whispered Emily eyeing their Head of House nervously.
"Yes, please do. Now, I expect both of you to head straight to your dormitories and not to let this happen again," Professor McGonagall instructed, a hint of leniency in her tone as she dismissed them to Gryffindor Tower.
As they entered the common room, reflecting on the events of the evening, they understood the importance of honesty and accountability in facing the consequences of their actions. The incident by the bridge reminding them of the start of something unknown between them finally revealing its passionate emotions, and the amazing day they shared throughout the village was the greatest part.
"Thank you for tonight, Sirius," Emily said softly, turning to face him with a smile as they ascended the stairs to their dormitories. "I had such a wonderful time exploring Hogsmeade with you."
Sirius returned her smile, his heart filling with warmth at her words. "The pleasure was all mine, Emily," he replied, reaching out to gently cup her cheek. "I wouldn't have wanted to spend today with anyone else but you."
*dot*