December 16, 1977
As Emily and Daphne stepped through the towering doors of the Great Hall, the atmosphere inside enveloped them in a magical ambiance. Glittering chandeliers floated above, casting a warm, inviting light that danced off the enchanted ceiling, which mirrored a clear, starlit sky. The long tables of the Great Hall had been replaced with ornate round tables decorated with flickering candles and festive centerpieces, setting the perfect scene for the enchanted evening. Dressed in a stunning gown of deep emerald green, the fabric hugged her slender figure while flowing gracefully around. The dress has a modest sweetheart neckline, embroidered delicately with red thread that sparkles subtly under the enchanted lights of the Great Hall.
"Can you believe we finally made it? I thought we'd never make it past the staircase!" squeaked Daphne hugging her arm. Emily chuckled, her eyes sparkling. "Well, we're here now! Let's make the most of it."
They wandered deeper into the hall, the sound of laughter and music swirling around them. As they made their way toward the dance floor, they caught sight of their friends mingling, lost in the joyous spirit of the ball. It was after much dancing and laughter, Emily took the moment to sit down after seeing Arlo and Daphne were slow dancing. Smiling to herself, she looked around catching the attention of those around her.
Emily felt a slight prickling sensation as a straw-blond haired boy approached, his piercing gaze fixed unwaveringly on her. There was something unsettling about the intensity of his stare, and for a moment, she hesitated, fidgeting with the glass in her hand. He wore a pristine Ravenclaw dress robe, his casual demeanor contrasting sharply with the formal elegance of the occasion. Yet, there was an air about him, an edge that hinted at something deeper, something uninvited. He opened his mouth as if to speak, but the words seemed to hang in the air, wrapped in an awkward silence. Emily couldn't shake the feeling that he was sizing her up, trying to measure her worth against some unknown standard. She cleared her throat, searching for the right words.
Suddenly, out of the corner of her eye, she spotted Arlo weaving through the throng of dancing guests. He spotted her, his expression shifting to one of concern as he approached.
"Hey, Em," he called, his voice cutting through the chatter. The boy's gaze flickered to Arlo, a fleeting expression of annoyance crossing his features before they returned to their previous state of impassivity. Arlo, dressed impeccably in navy robes that highlighted his sharp features, stepped up beside Emily, his presence bringing an immediate sense of comfort. He glanced at the boy with a raised eyebrow, sensing the discomfort in Emily's body language.
"You lost?" he asked, his voice casual but underscored with a hint of challenge.
The boy's lips quivered slightly, but it was barely a smile.
"Just thought I'd say hello," he replied, though his tone carried an undertone that made Emily shiver.
"Yeah, well, she's busy," Arlo said, throwing a protective arm around Emily's shoulders. He gently coaxed her away from the encounter, leading her toward the dance floor. As they moved, Emily felt the dry weight of the boy's stare linger for just a moment longer before he faded into the crowd. Arlo's presence was like a spell of reassurance that wrapped around her, making the Great Hall's atmosphere feel enchanting once more.
"Thank you," she said softly, looking up at him. "I didn't want to be rude, but he was … different."
Arlo chuckled lightly, shaking off the moment. "Trust me, Barty is always a bit odd, but he's harmless … mostly. Just focus on the fun, okay?"
Allowing the vibrant music to pull her back into the celebration, it left any remnants of the awkward encounter behind. In that moment, she felt lighter, his words washing over her like a spell, telling her that the enchanting evening was just getting started.
The enchanting music filled the air, beckoning couples to join the magical rhythm. As they began to dance, Arlo held Emily close, their movements fluid and effortless. It was sweet and relaxing, but she felt a gentle tug in her heart with a mixture of joy and anticipation. He turned his attention toward Emily, a mischievous glint in his eyes as he slowed a moment.
"Emily," Arlo said softly, his gaze earnest as they spun slowly across the floor. "I've been meaning to talk to you."
She felt her heart skip a beat at the familiar warmth of his voice, but the shadows of uncertainty pulled her back. Her wide eyes must have alerted him as the hesitation came a moment later.
"About the other night — our patrol last month … I never wanted it to become so awkward between us. Things just … happened, and I regret how it went."
Taking a breath, Emily shifted slightly to meet his gaze. There were so many couples around them, it made it hard to make out his words.
"You don't have to apologize for anything, Arlo. I was just trying to be playful, to lighten things up and test something."
"Honestly, I didn't handle it well," he said, shaking his head. "You caught me off-guard—Wait! You were testing me?"
Arlo stalled a moment eyeing her closely. Emily felt the tightening grip of confusion and frustration in his tone. She felt her heart race as his eyes, earnest and searching, seemed to beckon her to reveal everything. The music pulsed in the background, a stark contrast to the turmoil brewing. But truth be told, she was terrified of the answer as much as she was curious about it. Before she could voice her uncertainty, Arlo leaned closer, lowering his voice as if to shield their conversation from prying ears.
"Come on, let's find a quieter place to talk. I can't do this with everyone around."
Emily nodded, grateful for the distraction from the encroaching crowd of students still dancing and laughing in the Great Hall. The vibrant colors of their dresses and suits blurred into a kaleidoscope of noise that only amplified the tension between them. Arlo moved to grasp her hand firmly, gently guiding her toward a side door that led to a secluded courtyard. The gardens were a hidden gem of the school, often overlooked during festivities, nestled behind a tapestry of ivy-covered walls and cloaked in the soft glow of fairy lights. The air was fresher here creating a bubble of intimacy that felt safe and necessary. The gentle rustling of leaves overhead and the faint twinkle of stars beginning to dot the night sky. Leaning against the cool stone barrier wall, Emily feeling the weight of the moment settle over them.
"Emily," he said, taking a step closer, his hands in his pockets. There was a certain maturity that she had never seen in him before. "Why were you testing me?"
Feeling the cool air wrap around her like a blanket, Emily inhaled sharply. It felt easier to breathe here, away from the onlookers. Wrapping her arms around her torso, though, Arlo removed his dress robe and placed it gently over her now shaking shoulders.
"I—" she began, but the vulnerability surged within her again. "Just tell me, Arlo, did you visit me on Christmas last year?"
The question hung in the air like a fragile wisp of smoke, and she held her breath, waiting for his answer. Arlo looked at her intensely, as if searching for the words, and before he spoke, she could see the flicker of determination lighting up his eyes — a fire that fought against the shadows of their misunderstanding.
"I was never there," Arlo started, his voice steady yet filled with a hint of sadness, "I spent the holiday with my parents, and — I really struggle to remember anything from that week. I was working on some construction with Mum in the kitchen and next I woke up at David's house, feeling completely lost, trying to piece together the events that had led me there. I've been so confused about everything, just like you."
Her heart ached as she absorbed his words, desperate for understanding. "You weren't there? But it felt so real. The kiss —"
"I swear, I wasn't," Arlo's brow furrowed in thought as he shook his head, frustration swirling within him. "I've had this gnawing feeling that things aren't as they seem."
A silence ensued, heavy with unspoken fears and uncertainties, the quiet rustling of leaves echoing their thoughts. As Arlo shifted slightly, the crunch of snow beneath his boots broke the silence, sending a shiver of expectation down Emily's spine. She could see his breath, ghosting in the air like fleeting hopes. For a heartbeat, time stretched thin, the quiet enveloping them like a soft blanket. She could feel the thrum of her heartbeat echoing in the silence, longing for his words to break free, to turn the quiet into clarity before the shadows closed in around them.
"I need to know," she said finally, firming her resolve. "Why didn't you kiss me in the Central Hall?"
Arlo ran a hand through his disheveled hair, a gesture of frustration mingled with helplessness.
"Believe me, if things were different, I wouldn't have held back. But you need to understand … this isn't just about us."
Emily felt a pang of disappointment, the words slicing through her like a winter wind.
"So, it's Daphne then?" She couldn't hide the bitterness in her voice.
"No!" he replied, urgency seeping into his tone. He opened his mouth, hesitated, and then closed it, visibly grappling with his thoughts. "No ... it's tough for me too. I don't want to hurt anyone, least of all you."
The silence between them felt heavy, saturated with unspoken words and unacknowledged feelings. Arlo looked at her, and in his eyes, she could see the struggle. He was caught between the safety of familiarity and the allure of something that could erupt like quiet lightning.
"You already have," she replied gently, stepping closer, as flakes of snow began to flutter down from the night sky. Emily saw the walls around Arlo start to crack. She wasn't expecting an immediate change; she just needed him to feel the pull of their connection, to trust that against all odds, they could navigate this treacherous path together.
"Do you understand how infuriating that is?" he continued, his voice steadying but laden with emotion and the raw intensity of the sentenue enveloped her. "That someone would use my name, my face, to take something from you. I've had to fight my way back because of whoever that was. And now I'm left with this burning anger, not just for some impersonator, but for not being able to come clean to you sooner! I wanted to show you how I felt, to prove that I'm not just your Herbology partner, or your best friend's boyfriend!"
He took a breath, his eyes searching hers, a flicker of understanding passing between them. "It makes me so angry that someone else got to live out a moment I've been dreaming about for ages!"
His words echoed in the cool air, their weight pressing down on Emily like the heavy drapes hung over the windows in the Great Hall. The intensity in his eyes made her realize just how much this entire situation had affected him, and that he truly cared about her feelings amidst the chaos of misunderstandings. Emily's heart sank at the weight of his revelations—the truth of what he wanted and the frustration that had been circling them like a storm cloud. The music's gentle melody returned, a bittersweet reminder of the joyous celebration happening all around them. But here in this moment, with everything laid bare, Emily felt a shift within herself too. Her pulse quickened, desire threading through the tension.
"Arlo, I'm sorry. I didn't know. I thought—"
"What? That I wouldn't reciprocate?" He let out a harsh laugh, but it was devoid of humor. "You thought I'd just let someone else steal something from me?!"
Emily looked up as though searching for the answers she hadn't yet found. The world around them melted away, leaving only the two of them suspended in this charged moment, where the air crackled with both frustration and longing. Arlo's green eyes, usually so guarded, were now alight with an intensity that made her breath hitch. It was as if she could see every unsaid word reflecting in their depths. Without thinking, he stepped closer wrapping his arms around her waist as if to draw her into the very essence of his being. Their bodies just a breath apart, the warmth between them a stark contrast to the biting chill of the winter air. Emily felt his heartbeat against her palm, that lay shaking at the sudden closeness, quickening in rhythm to match her own. The synchrony that felt right, that felt genuine as they.
As his fingers brushed against her jaw, Emily closed her eyes for just a moment, allowing the world to fade into a blur of shadows and light. The gentle caress of his thumb against her cheek sent shivers down her spine, igniting something deep within her that had lain dormant for too long. She leaned into his touch, instinctively wanting more, begging for the unspoken promise that lingered between them. His hands, warm and reassuring, cradled her cheeks as if he were anchoring her to the moment. She melted into his touch, surrendering to the intensity that had surged between them since their patrol.
"Emmy," Arlo breathed, his voice barely above a whisper, laden with emotion. The soft sound of her name on his lips sent a thrill through her, and she realized she'd been holding her breath. Arlo leaned in, his face mere inches from hers, his breath mingling with hers in a warm haze. She could feel the tumult of emotions swirling around them—the frustration of the past, the hope of the future, and the undeniable pull of their attraction. Just as she thought the moment couldn't become any more overwhelming, he closed the final distance between them. His lips brushed against hers, tender at first, as if testing the waters, but the kiss quickly deepened with an urgency that spoke volumes of the tension that had crackled between them for too long. Emily responded instinctively, hands finding their way to hair, fingers weaving through the brown strands, pulling him closer against her.
In that moment, all the anger, confusion, and misunderstandings dissipated into nothingness, leaving only the purity of their connection, the culmination of all the moments spent in each other's orbit, unclouded by outside influences. Their breaths mingled in the cold, each exhalation a testament to raw vulnerability as the kiss deepened. The soft exploration that spoke volumes of everything left unsaid — the frustration, the longing, the unshakeable bond that had both drawn them together and kept them apart. It was a mixture of sweetness and restraint, of longing that had finally found a way to escape the confines they had built around their hearts.
*dot*
As Arlo and Emily finally pulled apart, breathless and wide-eyed, the realization of what they had just shared hung in the air. He searched soft hazel eyes and face, though warm against the bitter cold around them, for any hint of doubt. Instead he found only wonder and awe. Things wouldn't magically resolve; yet, there was a kinship deepening, a solid foundation they could build upon, free from the shadows of what had once been.
"I've wanted this for so long," Arlo confessed, his voice thick with emotion. Emily smiled, his heart swelling with a sense of belonging. Just as the warmth of their shared moment began to seep fully into her bones, an abrupt clearing of a throat broke the tranquil air. They turned in unison to find Peter Pettigrew standing awkwardly at the edge of the garden, fidgeting with the edges of a folded piece of parchment. His eyes flitted between them, clearly unsettled by the intimacy he had evidently intruded upon.
"Uh, ahem," he began, his voice a thin wisp of sound beneath the twinkling stars. "Emily? I've, um, got a note for you."
The moment's warmth seemed to retreat as he stepped forward, his timid demeanor set against the assertiveness of the gesture. Arlo's hand wrapped around her, revealing a flicker of annoyance at the interruption, but more than that, an instinctual protective response. He narrowed his eyes as Peter held out the note, his expression suddenly serious.
"It's from Sirius," Peter continued, glancing at Arlo before returning his focus to Emily. "He wants to meet you near the ground floor bathrooms near Slytherin … alone."
Arlo's stomach twisted in response, a mix of surprise and trepidation washing over. He was thankful that Peter couldn't see his hand tightening behind the small of her back, telling her not to leave.
"Alone?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper, and she caught a glimpse of uncertainty crossing Peter's face. He nodded the confirmation, avoiding their gaze for a moment as though afraid of the implications of what this meeting could mean. Arlo moved slightly standing in front of Emily, his protective instinct bubbling to the surface as he stared Peter down.
"Why would Sirius want her to meet there?" His voice was firm, laced with an edge that he had not intended, but the weight of concern for Emily's safety bore heavily. Peter shrugged, his demeanor shifting slightly as he sensed the tension.
"I don't know. He didn't elaborate, just that it was important."
Emily glanced between the two boys, the warmth of her earlier emotions now mixed with confusion and a hint of anxiety.
"Maybe it's not what you think …" she trailed off, unsure of herself as she considered the implications. "It could be to talk about the baby."
"Emily," said Arlo, his voice lower and more resolute. His eyes traveled between both before falling against her hairline. Before he could finish, Emily took a breath, steeling herself. She reassuringly patted his chest while his heart was beating rapidly in annoyance.
"I'll be careful, I promise."
With a reluctant nod, she took a step toward Peter, breaking the fragile bubble they had created. Arlo watched helplessly as she accepted the note, the parchment crinkling beneath her fingers. It felt as if an invisible thread was stretching, threatening to snap, and he couldn't shake the feeling that something more was brewing beneath the surface. As she turned to walk away, Emily paused for a brief moment, looking back over her shoulder, her expression a mixture of determination and uncertainty.
"I'll be okay," she assured him softly, a flicker of hope in her eyes, but doubt still clouded her gaze.
Arlo didn't know if he believed her, or if he could shake the foreboding feeling churning in his stomach. He remained rooted in the garden, watching her retreating figure, the distance between them stretching further and further with each step she took and whatever waited for her in the dimly lit corridors beyond. A sense of dread laced through him like the chill of the winter air, each moment ticking by with an intensity that made him acutely aware of just how precarious their situation had become. After some time, he stood alone in the fading light of the garden, the weight of unspoken emotions pressing against his chest like an iron vice. He could still feel the lingering warmth of Emily's body against his, the thrill of their kiss dancing at the edges of his consciousness, but the joy of that moment was rapidly dissipating.
He raised a hand to wipe at his eyes, the dampness betraying him. He'd been crying, though he hadn't wanted to show her — showing any vulnerability felt like the last thing he should do in a world so filled with uncertainty. Emily was stepping into danger, and here he was, a helpless observer. The thought of her alone with Sirius sent a shiver of anxiety coursing through him. What did he want to speak to her about? What did he want from her? Was it about the baby like she had said? There was more than he knew and it didn't soften his concern. The echoes of his feelings tightened around him. He pressed a knuckle to his lips, tasting salt on his skin, its stark reminder of the treachery of his heart.
The truth unfurled like a dark flower blooming deep within him; he was falling for a girl who was tied to another, a girl who was pregnant with an entirely different man's child. It was something only ambition could rival, yet he craved for her affection fiercely. Like the warmth of the sun that could not be replaced, Emily had slipped underneath his skin, igniting long-dormant hopes and desires. She was vibrant and alive, everything he always wanted but could never touch. That kiss tonight … it was everything and more.
With a deep breath to steady himself, he finally turned away from the tranquil ambiance of the garden, the air now tainted with tension that made everything feel bleak. Arlo didn't know what kind of spell Sirius had cast to lure Emily out, but he felt an unyielding need to follow her. Even if it meant confronting the very essence of his turmoil, he had to make sure she was okay. Every ounce of his being urged him to protect her, to shield her from the swirling chaos. He hurried through the dimly lit corridors toward the Slytherin Dungeons, each echoing footfall a hammering reminder of his own racing heart. The sounds of the party faded, replaced by the muffled anticipation that masked each turn he took. With every step closer, the fear thickened. When he finally arrived, he hesitated outside the door, glancing down the small corridor, trying to sense any flicker of movement, any sign of Emily.
But the corridor remained empty, the silence almost surreal. He knocked once, then leaned in to listen, but it was as though the space was a void, devoid of conversation. It couldn't be that Sirius had already taken her—he'd seen her leave, her resolve hardening with every step. A wave of panic surged through him as he pushed the door open, half-expecting to find them embroiled in a tense conversation. Instead, he was met with the hushed confines of an empty bathroom, the dim light casting strange shadows across the tiles.
"Emily?" he called, the word trembling against the fragile silence, but the only response was the echo of his own call returning to him.
His breath quickened, and anxiety coiled in his stomach. He stepped further inside, checking each stall and corner, though deep down he knew it was futile. She was gone, vanished into the unknown before he could grasp her hand and pull her back. That invisible thread connecting them had snapped the moment she left his side—now it fluttered in the wind, frayed and unraveling.
"Damn it," he murmured, his voice barely above a whisper, laced with both fear and frustration as he slammed his palm against the cool surface of a sink. The hollow sound underscored the helpless void that now filled him. He was lost — his thoughts twisted, grappling with the realization that he had only just found something real, something worth clinging to, and it had slipped away just as quickly.
With a sense of urgency muddled with desperation, he turned to leave the bathroom, determined to retrace his steps and search for her. Perhaps she hadn't gone far. Maybe Sirius's motives weren't as nefarious as they seemed—perhaps he simply wanted to talk … or apologize… or whatever people did in moments filled with uncertainty. But why Slytherin?
But as he moved down the hallway, the restlessness built in his chest, growing until it felt like a physical ache. It didn't make sense to him how two people could share such a moment only to be overshadowed by a dark specter from the past. His heart ached for the woman he had just kissed while remaining shackled to the complexities of Daphne. With a newfound determination brewing within him, Arlo vowed that he wouldn't lose Emily. Not like this. Not when he had just begun to understand the gravity of what they shared. He wouldn't stand by idly while someone else took her heart … or her future.
Finally checking with a nearby portrait for the time, he realized it was well after midnight. Resigning back to Ravenclaw Tower, he collapsed into bed afraid wherever Emily ended up at.
*dot*
As Emily reluctantly followed Peter down the dimly lit corridor, a nervous flutter twisted in her stomach. The further they walked, the heavier her heart felt, burdened by anticipation and an unsettling sense of dread. Peter didn't lead her to the ground-floor bathroom near Slytherin, instead they traveled through the reception hall and the grand staircase toward the one eyed witch passage and Gryffindor Tower. They came to a stop outside the first floor bathrooms, where Peeves liked to set traps. His fingers pointed to the door and she hesitated, taking a deep breath before pushing it open confused. The space inside was poorly lit, the flickering candles casting distorted shadows across the walls. But her eyes were immediately drawn to the back of the room, where two figures were silhouetted against the soft glow. As she stepped inside, her breath caught in her throat, and her heart dropped as recognition washed over her.
Sirius was there, but he wasn't alone. There was a powerful smell of apples in the room as her eyes froze on the sight of him intertwined with Cosette and it sent a chill of betrayal spiraling through her, each heartbeat echoing louder in her ears. They were engaged in a very intimate act, the kind of closeness that had once been shared in moments that now felt like distant memories. Emily's gut twisted in revulsion, as a gasp escaped her lips, breaking the spell of intimacy that had enveloped the room. Both Sirius and Cosette turned to face her, surprise etched across their features. Time seemed to freeze as her mind raced, the weight of the situation crashing down around her like a tempest. Sirius, ever too cool in his demeanor, met her gaze with an expression that morphed from shock to something colder, something that struck her with more force than a physical blow.
"Emily…" he began, but before he could finish, she felt the sting of tears welling up in her eyes.
As Emily's shock rippled through the room, the intimacy that had surrounded Sirius and Cosette hung like a thick fog. She stood frozen at the door, her breath coming in shaky gasps. The reality of what she was witnessing clashed violently with the hopes she had nurtured. Bringing her hands to cover her mouth, and quiet the sobs coming out. Sirius's initial surprise quickly turned to annoyance, a fleeting scowl playing across his features as he shifted away from Cosette, his body half-covering hers.
"What the hell are you doing here?" he spat, attempting to sound casual, but the underlying tension was noticeable. He even continued his act with Cosette, who blinked in confusion and surprise, pulled herself upright against his body. Her expression was a mixture of embarrassment and defiance. Dangerously her long arms wrapped themselves around his neck.
"This is … not what it looks like," she protested, her voice wavering as Sirius continued his act against her body. Emily could feel the fire of betrayal igniting within her.
"Not what it looks like?" she echoed, incredulous. "You're literally—"
"We were just—" Sirius began, but he hesitated, his words faltering as he shifted uncomfortably, still caught in a position that betrayed them both. The moment felt surreal, the candles around them flickering as if the very air could feel the tension.
"Save it," Emily spat, her anger bubbling to the surface. "You don't have to explain. I can see for myself exactly what's happening here!"
"Please, Emily…" Sirius's voice dropped to a coaxing tone, but it felt hollow. "I wasn't—"
"Weren't what? Being honest? Faithful?" The words shot out of her mouth, charged with pain. She couldn't help but feel the intensity of the moment transform into a physical ache in her chest.
Sirius let out a frustrated grunt and rolled his shoulders, trying to shake off the remnants of the intimacy.
"It's not like that…" he began, but his tone seemed defensive, and the absence of sincerity sent another wave of hurt crashing over her.
Cosette, sensing the break in his demeanor, now awkwardly pulled her dress back in place, her own uncertainty surfacing.
"Look, we didn't know you would come in," she added softly, but it felt inadequate, almost dismissive in the face of Emily's turmoil.
"Of course you didn't!" Emily cried, her voice echoing off the cold, hard walls. "Why would you think about anything other than yourselves? What I saw... that's all I needed to know."
Sirius ran a hand through his hair, the frustration mixing with something almost like guilt in his eyes.
"Emily, please …" he implored, taking a step toward her, but she instinctively recoiled.
"Don't," she warned, her voice now a choked whisper as he tried to whisper out words of plea. "Don't touch me! You've broken my heart!"
For a brief moment, silence enveloped the room, punctuated only by the flickering candles. It felt like time stood still, the weight of unspoken emotions hanging heavily in the air. Then, in that tension-filled silence, Sirius's gaze hardened.
"I never wanted that child," he said quietly, the finality of his words slicing through her, sharper than any dagger. "I never wanted you either. I was only using you because in the end I will always go back to my own …."
Emily felt her world collapse all over again, the painful truth crashing over her like icy water. She turned on her heel, unable to bear the sight of them any longer, the sting of tears blurring her vision as her heart pounded like a war drum. Each step echoed with the weight of betrayal, visions of Sirius and Cosette entwined seared into her memory. She blinked back tears, fury and sadness swirling within her as she pushed past familiar paintings and portraits, the whispers of onlookers blending into a cacophony of noise that dulled her senses.
Where was Arlo? She needed to find him — his kindness, his understanding — more than ever. The warmth of his embrace, the spark of their kiss, felt like a distant dream against the icy reality of what she had just witnessed.
"Arlo!" she called out, her voice trembling slightly as it hung in the quiet air surrounding the garden. "Where are you?"
Panic twisted within her, a tightening noose around her throat. Her pulse raced as she glanced around, desperately hoping he would appear from the concealed corners or behind a tree, his usual warm smile lighting up her darkness. With a sense of dread creeping in, she retraced her steps, instinctively heading towards familiar hallways. She realized Arlo was nowhere to be found.
"Arlo!" she called once more, her voice carrying through the corridors filled with a reverberating echo, barely masking the ache in her heart. "... where … are … you …"
Glancing into classrooms and common areas, scanning faces; all she saw were strangers. It was as if the weight of her turmoil had created an invisible barrier, repelling anyone who might offer her solace. If they could just find each other again, she was sure they could navigate the storm swirling.
As she approached the vicinity of the Slytherin common room, the weight of indecision pressed heavily against her. She swallowed hard, fighting back another wave of sorrow. Should she just keep searching for Arlo, or settle for David, who had always been there when she didn't know who else to turn to? A flicker of anger ignited again, this time directed at Sirius for forcing her into this position, at herself for feeling so lost. But she knew she needed Arlo. He had to understand what she'd just gone through, how much she needed him now. Just the thought of settling for anything less than him made her heart ache with longing.
But the castle was a large place, and she was tired and her feet already ached from scaling what she traveled so far. She walked down the last flight of stairs, not stopping until she reached the cold, familiar stone of the Slytherin common room. The entrance was just ahead, hidden behind the vast, twisted roots of an ancient tree that loomed like a guardian. The familiar serpentine emblem caught her eye, but tonight it felt alien — like an unwelcoming reminder of everything that had gone wrong.
Panting and desperate for solace, Emily approached the entryway and knocked on the cold door. She could hear the low murmur of voices inside, the warmth of camaraderie spilling through the cracks. A Slytherin girl finally cracked the door open, a puzzled look flitting across her face.
"Potter? What are you doing here?" she asked, eyebrows raised.
"Is David here? I need to see him," she replied, her voice trembling slightly, emotions still raw.
The Slytherin shook her head. "Nah, he went to the Christmas Ball with some friends. He's not back yet."
A wave of disappointment washed over her, but she nodded, forcing a weak smile. "Thanks."
The door closed, and Emily turned away, feeling more lost than ever. She wanted to burst into tears, to scream, but instead, she felt a heavy fatigue settling in her bones. With a resigned sigh, she sank down against the cold wall outside. Time slipped by as she sat there, hugging her knees tightly to her chest. The shadows around her stretched and flickered in the candlelight, mirroring her inner turmoil. She had expected Arlo or David to be the one to pull her from the abyss, to help her forget the pain, even if just for a moment. But they were gone, and the void felt cavernous.
As the minutes turned into an hour, she grew increasingly aware of the chill in the air, her body slowly succumbing to exhaustion. She fought to stay awake, to keep her thoughts from spiraling into despair, but the sense of isolation wrapped around her like a thick fog. Eventually, she surrendered to the heaviness in her eyelids. The last rays of candlelight flickered and dimmed, and as the world around her faded into darkness. She allowed herself to close her eyes, unaware of how long she would remain there. Hours later, her restless sleep was disrupted by the soft sound of voices drawing near. Jolting awake, the world around her came back into focus as the door to the Slytherin common room swung open loudly, letting out a wave of warmth and laughter. There, among the arrivals was David, his familiar smile shining like a beacon amidst the darkness.
"Emily?" he called out, his brow furrowing in concern as he caught sight of her slumped figure. He leant forward, his friends fading into the background as he approached her. His blue eyes traveled over her looking for any signs of injury. In that moment, all the pain, confusion, and turmoil flooded back into her heart. Without thinking, she surged forward, wrapping her arms around him, leaning heavily against his sturdy frame.
"David," she whispered, her voice trembling as she shook against him. "I didn't know where else to go … I thought I could find you here."
David's arms enveloped Emily , warm and reassuring. She could no longer hold back the flood of emotions, the raw ache spilling forth as she recounted her encounter with Sirius—the intimacy she had stumbled upon, the betrayal, the cruel indifference of his words. Each revelation felt like ripping off a scab, exposing the raw wound underneath. She inhaled shakily, feeling a mix of gratitude and something else—a sense of comfort that she hadn't expected. The words were a balm on her wounded spirit, and though she knew he wouldn't be the answer to her emotional turmoil, she was thankful for the respite he offered.
"I just feel so lost," she confessed, feeling the weight of uncertainty still pressing down on her shoulders. "I'm having his baby and I'm too far along now to turn back! And now it feels like I've lost everything. I'm so alone."
"You're not alone in this," he assured her, his voice a soothing echo against the chorus of her pain. "Whatever you need, whatever you want to do next, I'll help. But don't let Black's actions define how you see yourself. You know the truth of who you are."
Her heart ached, and she couldn't help but nod as she fought to squeeze out the remnants of her tears.
Just beyond that moment, somewhere in the shadows, the connection with David blossomed like a seedling fighting through the frost. As the night deepened and secrets intertwined within the stone walls of Slytherin, the world outside faded—leaving only the beginnings of something new, something that could anchor her through the storm. With him by her side, maybe she could begin to mend the broken pieces of her heart.
*dot*
The morning sun poured through the Great Hall's enchanted ceiling, bathing the room in a golden hue that perfectly matched the joyful anticipation of students ready to embark on their Christmas break. The tantalizing scents of freshly baked pastries, crispy bacon, and rich pumpkin juice filled the air, weaving together a warm tapestry of holiday cheer. Laughter and chatter bounced off the high ceilings as Gryffindors gathered around their table, their spirits as bright as the morning light. Emily stood at the entrance, taking it all in with a mixture of excitement and trepidation. Today felt different—like magic thrumming beneath her skin. Her gaze flitted effortlessly around the hall, landing on familiar, grinning faces. Black, with his signature lopsided grin, was wrestling with Remus over the last of the cinnamon rolls. Potter, caught mid-laugh, was leaning across the table toward Lily, whose cheeks glowed with amusement at his antics.
The warmth in her heart paled slightly as she turned her attention to the Slytherin table, where David sat, a picture of effortless confidence. His dark hair was perfectly tousled, and his smirk danced mischievously as he sipped his tea and dug into a pile of eggs. There was an undeniable spark in the air between them, an electric pull that made her heart race with nerves and excitement. He was there with her all night in front of his common room, leaving only briefly to retrieve a thick blanket to cover her against the cold of the night. All night they sat there in each other's comfort. His applewood scent filled her as he whispered a soft lullaby easing her into sleep. Sometime later, she woke up to find him resting against the wall, his head hanging to the side. Gently waking him, she gave him a thank you kiss before returning to Gryffindor Tower.
Now though as she glanced back at her brother, his expression shifted from joy to an unsettling mix of confusion and concern as he spotted her across the hall. It was almost as if he could sense the tug of her unorthodox choice. She was tired of feeling confined, tired of being a "Good Gryffindor". Today, she would embrace her own path, no matter where it might lead. With a resolute breath, she turned her back on the Gryffindor table and took her first step into the unknown. Her small travel bag swung beside her leg as each determined stride toward David felt like a quiet rebellion, a defiance against the judgmental looks of everyone's watchful gaze. The animated buzz of conversation around her dimmed into a low hum as she focused solely on the boy sitting confidently at the edge of the Slytherin table.
As she approached, the delicious confusion of nervousness melted away, overtaken by a sense of exhilaration. The world narrowed to that moment, and as she caught David's eye, the corners of his mouth twitched upward as if he had been expecting her. With her heart thundering in her chest and a glimmer of hope brightening her spirit, she knew this leap was just the beginning. Today was hers, and she was ready to make it unforgettable.
"Hey, Emmy!" David's voice rang out, smooth and inviting, breaking through her resolve. His smile was contagious, a bright beacon amidst the sea of students, who, for those nearest, were staring at her in confusion. Some even turned back to look at Potter's reaction; and he was standing his mouth agape as he watched from afar.
"Mind if I join you?" she asked, confidence coursing through her veins as motioned with her chin to the seat beside him.
The Slytherins were momentarily stunned into silence as David stood offering the spot. As she settled in, their quiet whispers morphed into curious murmurs, all eyes keenly focused on the unexpected Gryffindor at their table. She found herself laughing easily, drawn into the dynamic of his friends as they joked and shared stories. With every heartbeat, she felt apprehension slip away, replaced with excitement and the intoxicating thrill of belonging, if only temporarily. David's charm was magnetic, pulling her toward him as he playfully engaged the group, his laughter sending ripples of warmth through her. Catching a glimpse of the Marauders across the hall; their furrowed brows suggested they were none too pleased with her choice of company. A twinge of guilt pricked at the back of her mind, but the sparkle in his eyes, made it difficult to focus on anything else. Others were bidding goodbye for the train back to London.
With the bustlings students around them, she glanced up at David, their eyes locking in a moment that felt electric.
"Stay with me?" he asked quietly as others walked around their stopped forms. "I don't want to be alone again for Christmas."
Emily hesitated for just a heartbeat, her mind racing as she weighed the consequences of her choice. The warmth of David's presence was juxtaposed against the chilling thought of Black's disapproving gaze fixed on them from across the hall. The air felt thick with uncertainty, yet the sincerity in David's eyes drew her in, igniting a flicker of courage within her. She could almost hear the whispers of the Marauders echoing in her mind, but in that suspended moment, all she could see was David's hopeful expression. Closing her eyes briefly, she inhaled sharply, then turned to him, determination rising.
"Yes," she breathed, the word spilling forth like a promise.
*dot*
Christmas Eve Night….
In his dormitory, David lay in bed, his mind drifting back to the moments he had shared with Emily over the last week. He closed his eyes briefly focusing on the spot above his bed. A sense of contentment washed over him, while her familiar presence stirred against his body. Shifting in the bed, his eyes fluttered open to find her slumbering with a soft, affectionate smile. She filled the room with a sense of warmth and comfort, a reminder of the daring act and constraints of their houses. A warmth unknown to his fellow seventh years nor something he openly asked if he could do. With hesitations to intervene due to David's influential position within the house, the atmosphere became charged with tension as others grappled with conflicting loyalties. Whispers ripple through the house as the new spreads like wildfire that first night. He opened the door, with confidence, and ushered her through under his arm. His authority was something that filled the walls of silence against the cries of his housemates.
David woke with a start, his mind still foggy. As he passed through the common room, a figure emerged from the darkness - Cosette, her stern face and arms crossed in a stance of simmering anger.
"You broke your promise," Cosette's voice was cool and cutting, the disapproval lacing her words like venom.
Her eyes bore into David's, sharp and accusatory, revealing the depth of her disappointment at his betrayal of their shared pact. David froze in his tracks, the weight of Cosette's words settling heavily upon him. He knew the risks of bringing Emily into the sanctity of the Slytherin dormitory, where their forbidden love could unravel the very fabric of their carefully constructed world. The promise he had made to Cosette, to shield their house from the prying eyes of outsiders, now lay shattered at his feet.
"I … I had no choice," David stammered, his voice trembling with a mixture of guilt, defiance, and desperation. In that moment, the weight of his forbidden love for Emily crashed down upon him, threatening to suffocate him with its overwhelming intensity. He knew the risks, the consequences of bringing an outsider in, but the pull of his heart had overridden the logic of his mind.
Cosette's gaze hardened, a glimmer of empathy shining through the mask of disapproval she always wore.
"I know you care for her deeply,," Cosette's voice softened, a note of resignation creeping into her words. "But you cannot afford to be reckless. Your loyalty lies with Slytherin, above all else."
As the shadows lengthened in the Slytherin dormitory, David and Cosette stood in a silent standstill, bound by the intricate web of loyalties and compromises that defined their lives. The echoes of the unspoken truth lingered in the air, a reminder of the delicate dance they must perform to protect their secrets and their hearts in a world where love was both their salvation and their downfall. Cosette's voice quivered with frustration as she struggled to make David see the gravity of the situation they found themselves in.
"She asked, so I complied," David's voice held a hint of defiance, a flicker of desperation as he clung to the threadbare excuse that had led him. The memory of Emily's pleading eyes haunted him, tugging at his heartstrings with a force he could not resist.
"She's a bloody Gryffindor! She's not meant to be here."
Cosette's words sliced through the air like a blade, her tone laced with a mixture of anger and sorrow. The boundaries that divided their worlds were etched in stone, the rivalries between houses serving as a barrier that should never be breached. A heavy silence descended upon the common room, broken only by the sound of their ragged breaths. The fragile harmony they had maintained within Slytherin was now shattered, the cracks widening with each passing moment threatened to tear their world apart.
As Cosette turned away, her shoulders slumped with weariness and disappointment, David was left to wrestle with the choices he had made and the price he would pay for following his heart against the dictates of loyalty and duty. The shadow of betrayal loomed largely over, a stark reminder of the sacrifices they would need to make to protect the fragile peace of their world. Cosette's fury boiled over like a storm unleashed, the tempest of her emotions raging unchecked as she had confronted David with a searing intensity that left no room for doubt by the raw power of her anger.
As the echoes of their confrontation reverberated through, the air crackling with tension and unresolved emotion, Cosette stood trembling with a mix of fury and heartache, her eyes ablaze with a fire that refused to be extinguished. In that moment, she was a force of nature, a woman scorned and wounded, her pride as fragile as glass, shattered by the weight of her own unbridled wrath.
David retreated back to his bed, the weight of shaping the course of their futures in ways he could never have imagined. But now he saw Emily peacefully asleep for once. The morning light streamed through the window, casting a warm glow across the Slytherin dormitory. He stirred from his dreams, a smile forming as he turned to find Emily still nestled beside him, her black hair haloed against the pillow. Today was Christmas, and he couldn't shake the excitement bubbling within him.
As she slowly awakened, her eyes fluttered open, revealing a soft, sleepy smile that sent a thrill racing through him.
"Merry Christmas," he murmured, brushing a stray lock of hair behind her ear.
"Merry Christmas," she replied, a yawn escaping her lips, her eyes sparkling with that contagious joy he had come to adore.
David took a deep breath, pulling a small velvet box from the bedside table, hidden beneath a pile of clothes. He felt a rush of nerves course through him, but the moment felt right.
"I've got something for you," he said, his heart pounding in anticipation.
Her brow raised in curiosity as he opened the box. Nestled inside was a delicate silver ring, adorned with an intricate design that caught the light — elegant yet simple, a nod to the heritage that shaped him. Crafted from a rich silver with a hint of warmth, its surface bore intricate etchings — swirling patterns reminiscent of ancient Greek motifs intertwined with elegant Art Nouveau lines, reflecting both the brilliance of his Greek and French ancestry. At the center of the ring sat a polished lapis lazuli stone, deep blue and speckled with flecks of gold, evoking the azure skies of Greece and the shimmering Atlantic coast where his grandfather had lived. The stone represented wisdom and loyalty, qualities cherished by the Luke family. Surrounding the lapis were delicate vines, symbolizing growth and nurturing — an homage to the family's belief in strong roots and tradition.
More than just a piece of jewelry, the ring carried the weight of the Luke family's values. The careful craftsmanship was a physical reminder of their deep-seated belief in blood purity, a sentiment that had both entangled and haunted David. Although he was the first of his lineage to attend Hogwarts, the whispers of traditionalists ran through his veins, creating an unspoken tension between the legacy of the past and the promise of the future.
David's fingers brushed against the ring's surface, feeling the curves and edges. The ring was not merely a trophy of ancestry; it served as a bridge between the weight of expectation and the spark of individuality that David had begun to forge with Emily. This ring was not only a gift but a manifestation of his desire for her to stand alongside him against the traditions that often seemed to bind him. The strength of the stone combined with the verdant design planted a vision of hope, of growth together, as he offered her a path that defied the constraints of their houses.
"One day I hope we can continue this legacy as a family," he declared once more, glancing not only at the ring but the future that awaited them. It was a promise inked in the lineage of the Luke family, one that he wished to rewrite with her by his side.
"This is the Luke family ring. It was passed down through generations. My father was gifted by his father and so on."
"David, this is beautiful," she breathed, her voice barely above a whisper. He nodded, his voice firm, yet tender.
"I know it's a big step, but I want you to know I'm serious about us. You've brought so much light into my life, Emily."
With tears glistening in her eyes, she nodded, a radiant smile breaking across her face. "I would love to wear it."
Carefully, he took the ring from the box and slipped it onto her finger, the metal cool against her skin. It fit perfectly, as if it had been made for her.
"It looks beautiful on you," he said, feeling a surge of pride and contentment.
"Thank you," she whispered, her voice thick with emotion. "This means more to me than you'll ever know."
They sat together, the world outside fading away as they shared whispered promises and laughter, the spirit of Christmas enveloping them like a warm embrace. In that moment, David knew that despite the challenges ahead, they had each other—and together, they could face anything.
Finally, he got his girl and no one was going to take her from him ever again … even if he had lied to everyone to get her …
*dot*
Sirius sat at the dining table in Godric's Hollow, pushing food around on his plate, his appetite nonexistent. Holly and twinkling lights decorated the cozy room, but the Christmas spirit felt distant, just like Emily. Since the Christmas Ball over a week ago, tension had suffocated him, and he couldn't shake the lingering frustration that followed him like a shadow. She avoided him everywhere he went and her refusal to talk led him to withdraw. He tried asking Arlo for some information but finding the Ravenclaw was harder than getting Daphne to shut up, who also provided no help. Only to say she wasn't sleeping in the sixth year dormitory for several nights in a row. Where was she sleeping then, his mind begged and wondered.
James, seated across from him, stole glances at his best friend, concern etched on his face.
"Seriously, mate, it's Christmas morning. You've barely touched your breakfast. What's wrong"
Sirius sighed deeply, his mind drifting back to the events of the ball as he explained to him the reasons.
"I waited for her, James, all night I waited for her. I thought we would announce our child after everything — after what we are about to become. Instead, she just stayed up there at Hogwarts, probably fawning over Luke or someone."
James frowned with a nod. "I saw her at Slytherin's table with him too. I hated it myself. You know it doesn't mean anything though. She's been with you, and it's clear she cares about you. But she's at Hogwarts for the holidays, for whatever reason. You can't pin this all on her."
"How can I not?" Sirius shot back, his frustration bubbling over. "It feels like she's deliberately avoiding me. I didn't hear from her at all after the ball, and all I've got is this damn jealousy eating away at me. The thought of seeing Emily enjoying herself with that bloody snake, or worse, relying on him for comfort, just twists in my gut."
"You should really talk to her. If I were you, I'd send her an owl, at least," James suggested, hoping to draw him out of his brooding thoughts.
Sirius shook his head, biting down on his lower lip. "I just … I don't know what to say. I can hardly get my own thoughts straight. It was supposed to be a special moment; not me sitting here sulking while she's probably having fun at school."
James placed a reassuring hand on Sirius's shoulder. "Look, I know it's hard. But if you care about her — and it sounds like you do — if you want to be a father and loving partner, she has to let you know what's going on. Even if it feels risky, it's better than waiting to figure it out on your own."
The thought of Emily being with someone else made Sirius's heart ache. He imagined her joyfully laughing with Luke, a stark contrast to his own sour mood. "I just don't want to ruin anything if she's happy. Maybe it's best to let it go…"
James slammed his hand on the table, startling Sirius. "Are you bloody kidding me, Sirius? Is that really what you think?"
Sirius blinked at his friend, taken aback by the sudden intensity. "What do you mean?"
"Listen to yourself!" James leaned forward, his voice low but fierce. "Luke is a complete twat! Are you seriously going to stand back and let him play the role of the charming hero while you just sulk? You think he gives a damn about Emily or your baby? He's just a distraction for her — nothing more!"
Sirius opened his mouth to protest, but James wasn't finished. "And you need to wake up and remember something incredibly important: Emily isn't just some girl to toy with. She's carrying your child! My future nephew or niece is growing inside her right now! Do you really want to step aside and let someone like David Luke take the spotlight?"
"That doesn't mean I'm not scared," Sirius muttered, his voice quieter.
"Scared? You think I'm not scared for my sister? You think I don't worry about what's going to happen when that baby arrives? But that's not an excuse to run from this!" James shouted, his eyes blazing with passion.
"You mean everything to her, and if you let fear dictate your actions, you will lose her. You have to fight for what you want, Sirius! For her; for your family! FOR OUR FAMILY!" he bellowed, his voice reverberating with the weight of their bond.
Sirius felt a jolt at those words. In that moment, it hit him: James wasn't just acknowledging his connection to Emily; he was recognizing him as family — their family. The reality of their relationship shifted in his mind, deepening the gravity of what was unfolding between them. They were no longer just friends; they were about to be brothers-in-law, bound by blood and shared responsibility. It filled him with both pride and anxiety, the thought of being part of something so much larger than himself. He realized how pivotal this moment was, not just for him and Emily, but for all of them. They were in this together, and he felt a fierce determination rise within him to protect and cherish that new family connection.
His words hit hard, and Sirius felt a knot form in his stomach.
"What if I mess up? What if I'm not good enough?"
James leaned back, eyes narrowing. "Then do what you need to do to be good enough! You want to be a father? Start acting like one. Show her you care. If Luke thinks he can charm her away, he's going to have to deal with you — both as her boyfriend and as the father of her child!"
Sirius ran a hand through his hair, his heart pounding. "You're right. I can't just sit here and do nothing. I need to step up."
"Damn right you do." James's voice softened just slightly. "This is about more than just you now. It's about Emily, the baby, our family—and you need to take that responsibility seriously. You owe it to all of us, especially her."
With that, James's fiery demeanor gave Sirius a surge of motivation. He straightened up, determination flooding his veins.
"Okay, I'm going to write to her. Right now. I need to tell her how I feel and that I want to be part of this — and part of her life."
"Good. Now get to it!" James grinned, the energy shifting from intense passion to supportive enthusiasm.
As Sirius picked up the quill, his heart raced with a mixture of fear and hope. James's words echoed in his mind, reminding him that he had to take a stand not just for himself, but for Emily and the life they were about to create together. This was his chance to fight for what truly mattered, and he wouldn't let it slip away.