Chapter 26: An Unexpected Visit, Diagon Alley, and the Express
At the Ministry, Jakob reunited with his father and Emma, both waiting with their usual calm composure. The slightly tanned boy, having spent two weeks with the Parkinson family, exchanged polite farewells before returning to his own.
Jakob turned to Pansy, who stood nearby, looking unusually subdued. Without hesitation, he pulled her into a firm hug. As he leaned in, he whispered softly, "Just one more month, then we'll be back at Hogwarts."
Pansy nodded against his shoulder, but the sad frown on her face didn't fade. She clung to him a moment longer, her arms reluctant to let go. When the hug finally ended, her hands dropped awkwardly to her sides, her expression uncertain, as if unsure of how to face the next few weeks without him.
Jakob watched her for a moment before stepping back. "We'll be fine," he said quietly, offering a small nod of reassurance before turning to follow his family.
"We will," Pansy whispered after him.
The floo ride home was silent. When they arrived, Jakob stepped into the quiet of the manor, taking a deep breath. He was home again.
Susie was waiting for them, her usual warm smile in place. Beside her, Ella stood quietly, her eyes lighting up at the sight of Jakob, though there was a slight hesitation in her posture. She hadn't forgotten mouthing "F-you" when he left.
Jakob's gaze locked with hers, his expression hard. Ella, uncertain if he was still angry, offered a small, shy, "Hi."
Jakob replied with a firm, "Hi," making her shift awkwardly.
Then, the corners of his mouth curved into a teasing smile. Ella's face lit up, and she darted forward, throwing her arms around him. Jakob hugged her back, and the tension between them melted away as if it had never been there.
Everyone was eager to hear about the trip, but before Jakob could respond, Susie stepped in. "Go upstairs and unpack first," she instructed. "You can share everything with us in the living room afterward."
Jakob nodded and made his way upstairs to his room. As soon as he was sure no one had followed him, he quietly closed the door.
Taking out his wand, he carefully transfigured a small opening in the wall beside his bed, just large enough to hold something discreetly.
He then placed a pillow inside the hidden space and carefully let Saliza out.
The snake slithered out and looked at the hole, then turned its eyes to Jakob, expecting an explanation.
"I can't let them know about you just yet," Jakob whispered. "They might get scared if I reveal too much at once. So, for now, I made this for you to sleep in. You can sneak out through the window and climb down when you want, but remember—don't eat anything within 200 meters of the house."
Saliza gave a flick of her tongue in response.
"It's acceptable for now. I'm tired," she hissed back, her voice slow and weary as she slid towards her new bed.
Jakob ran his fingers gently across her sleek, black scales as she entered the hole, a smile forming on his lips. He was relieved the snake had agreed to the temporary arrangement. After a moment, he straightened up, unpacked his things, and headed downstairs where his family eagerly awaited the stories he had to share.
When Jakob entered the living room, everyone was already seated, waiting to hear about his adventure. Even Thomas sat in his usual spot, puffing on his pipe. Feeney, the little house-elf, was bustling around, serving tea and biscuits, too busy to sit down even if she wanted to. Jakob began recounting the trip, answering the many questions Susie, Emma, and Ella fired his way. Even his father asked a thing or two, but those were more to ensure that Jakob had gained something valuable from the experience.
When Jakob reached the part about entering the pyramid, he kept it simple, only mentioning that he had seen some ancient paintings of the gods before heading back out. He breathed an inward sigh of relief when Thomas didn't question the obvious lie. Good, Jakob thought, clearly relieved. Mr. and Mrs. Parkinson hadn't shared the full story with him.
"So, I hear you had a good adventure," Thomas said as he rose from his chair, clearly ready to leave.
"Father," Jakob said quickly, stopping him in his tracks. "There's one more thing I'd like to show you."
Thomas, halfway turned to leave, sighed with visible irritation before sinking back into his seat. "And what might that be?" he asked, putting his pipe back in his mouth, his eyes narrowing.
Jakob smirked slightly as he reached for his wand, gripping it firmly while pointing it toward the coffee table. He had debated whether or not to reveal this talent to his family, but considering the weight of such a gift in their world, he decided to show them.
"Serpensortia."
With a sharp crack, a snake materialized from his wand, landing heavily on the table. It wasn't as large as the one in Egypt, but it was enough to draw everyone's attention. Silence fell over the room, all eyes fixed on the snake as it slowly moved, adjusting to its new surroundings.
Thomas was the first to react, reaching for his wand. "What is the meaning of this? Have you lost your mind conjuring a venomous snake here? Get rid of it, now!" His tone was sharp, leaving no room for argument.
But Jakob stood his ground, raising a hand. "Wait, Father. Please, let me show you."
Thomas paused, still visibly irritated but holding back.
Then Jakob hissed—a sharp, guttural sound that cut through the room. The snake turned its head toward him, then slithered up his arm before calmly coiling back onto the table, moving as if under strict command.
The room filled with gasps. Thomas froze his wand still in hand, his eyes locked on Jakob. He looked stunned as if trying to process what he had just witnessed. Susie and Ella exchanged wide-eyed glances, while Emma, usually composed, sat staring, her expression a mix of shock and, perhaps, jealousy.
"Vipera Evanesca," Jakob muttered, flicking his wand. The snake dissolved into smoke, vanishing without a trace.
The room stayed still as if waiting for someone to break the silence. Thomas's expression hardened, but beneath it, Jakob saw something unfamiliar—hesitation.
Emma was the first to speak. "You're a Parselmouth?" she asked quietly, her voice laced with disbelief. "But how? That doesn't run in our family... right?" She turned to their father, her gaze searching for answers.
Thomas didn't respond immediately. His gaze stayed fixed on Jakob, as though calculating the weight of the revelation and piecing together what it meant for their family.
Then, without warning, he rose from his seat, walked over to his son, and to everyone's surprise, embraced him.
"My son and heir has a gift known only to a few of the most powerful wizards of our time!" Thomas declared, pride unmistakable in his voice.
Jakob, overwhelmed by a wave of unfamiliar emotion—this being the first time his father had ever hugged him—slowly and hesitantly returned the gesture, unsure of what to make of this sudden approval.
When Thomas stepped back, still with a hand on his heir's shoulder, he turned to address the rest of the room, his expression a careful blend of pride and caution.
"No one outside of this room is to utter a word of this," he said sharply. "If the wrong people hear about Jakob's talent, it could become... problematic. You know how Parselmouths are feared in Britain."
The room fell into a heavy silence, everyone nodding in agreement, fully grasping the reality of what had been revealed. Their expressions confirmed that Thomas's word was final.
Satisfied with their response, Lord Quade turned his attention back to his heir. "I need to do some research. I'm very proud of you, my son."
With that, he walked out of the living room, leaving everyone watching him in silence as he exited.
Not everyone in the room reacted like Thomas. Susie and Feemey looked more alarmed than pleased, both exchanging uneasy glances. Emma's expression, already tinged with jealousy, seemed to darken even further, her eyes narrowing at Jakob. The only one who seemed genuinely happy was Ella, though her face showed more confusion than anything else.
"What's so special about being able to talk to snakes?" she asked, her brow furrowed as she tried to make sense of the situation.
The meeting had wrapped up quickly after Ella's question, and everyone had gone off to their own routines.
Jakob, now lying on his bed, had Saliza coiled comfortably on his stomach.
"And what did they think when you spoke the noble tongue?" Saliza asked, her tongue flicking the air as she shifted slightly.
Jakob chuckled. "They were shocked, of course. My father was pleased—probably prouder than he's ever been. But the others… well, they were a little more uncertain. Emma, especially."
Saliza's eyes narrowed slightly. "You should be cautious of the one you call Emma."
Jakob grinned, brushing off the comment. "Emma? She's my sister."
Saliza looked at him, clearly unphased by the explanation. "That means little to me. A snake will kill another snake if it sees it as a threat… even siblings."
Jakob's grin faltered, her words sinking in. He glanced at the ceiling, feeling a strange twist in his stomach. The thought of Emma's jealousy had always been something he dismissed, but now Saliza's words planted a seed of doubt. He couldn't shake the question that lingered in the back of his mind—could Emma ever see him as a threat, enough to want to destroy him?
In the days that followed, Jakob made an effort to spend more time with Emma, hoping to ease her jealousy. Initially, she had tried to hide it, but now she seemed more open and calmer. Her interest in the Parsel magic book Jakob had brought back was genuine, even if she struggled to read it.
Sensing an opportunity to help and possibly lessen her envy, Jakob offered to teach her. He spent hours trying to translate the strange symbols, creating a rough version of the Parsel alphabet. Some of the symbols were too difficult to decipher completely, but Emma seemed excited to learn this new type of magic regardless.
She often knocked on his door for help when she got stuck, and Jakob always welcomed her in. It was an unexpected way for them to reconnect, and as the days passed, Emma's jealousy appeared to fade. Their time spent working on the translations together seemed to bring them closer, and Jakob was glad to see the tension between them lift, bit by bit.
One scorching hot day, Jakob sat outside in the garden with Saliza, watching her bask in the sun's warmth. Her dark scales gleamed under the intense light, soaking in the heat.
"Don't you get too warm?" Jakob asked, reaching out to touch her. Surprisingly, her scales were cool to the touch, making him frown in confusion.
Saliza hissed softly, a sound Jakob had come to recognize as contentment.
"This is enjoyable for me," she told him. "I prefer the dark, but when I can absorb the light like this, it feels like I'm eating."
Jakob raised an eyebrow. "You deflect barely any sunlight, and you're almost completely black. How are you so cold?"
"I am of darkness. And it was there before the light," she hissed back.
The teenage boy was about to respond when another voice interrupted.
"I was told you were sitting alone, though it seems they failed to mention the charming company you already have."
Jakob turned to face Amy Frome. Her pale skin almost seemed to glow under the sunlight, creating a striking contrast with the deep green of her short dress, which hugged her figure tightly. Her dark, curly hair framed her face, the curls brushing against her shoulders as the breeze teased them. The dress emphasized her large chest, drawing attention without effort.
Jakob stood and turned to face Amy. "Apologies for not meeting you with the others. I wasn't told you'd arrived," he said, his voice steady, and controlled, though his mind raced to catch up with the situation. Had he just outed his secret?
Amy shrugged, her casual attitude clear, and without hesitation, stepped forward, wrapping her arms around him. Jakob stiffened, caught off guard. She'd never shown affection so openly before, and only once had she been this close to him.
He stayed still, her scent—a faint trace of lavender—reaching him as she pressed in close. The memory of their kiss flickered in his mind, and without thinking, his arms moved around her, closing the small gap between them.
"You hug is very... intimate. Or have you missed me that much?" Amy whispered, her breath brushing his ear.
Jakob's jaw tightened for a split second, mentally scolding himself for losing his cool like that. He loosened his hold slightly, stepping back just enough to regain control. A small smile played on his lips. "Can't it be both?" he replied, his voice smooth, any awkwardness quickly buried beneath his usual composure.
Amy smiled but then frowned for a half second.
She raised her hand and moved it from his head to hers, measuring that he was now almost as head longer than her.
"You have grown a lot of since we saw each other last."
"I grow al the time" said jakob chuckeling.
Saliza had grown curious about this new human who seemed to affect her Jakob so much, and she slithered silently up his leg, coiling her way behind his back.
Amy smirked, her eyes following Saliza's movement. "She's beautiful," she said, her voice soft with fascination.
Jakob raised an eyebrow, a flicker of confusion crossing his face. "How do you know it's female?"
Amy didn't take her eyes off the snake, her smirk deepening. "Only a princess could be that beautiful and dangerous at the same time." She reluctantly tore her gaze from Saliza's red eyes to look at Jakob again. "Can I hold her?"
Jakob opened his mouth, then shut it again, his expression torn.
"It's okay, Jakob. I already saw you speak the tongue," Amy said, her voice calm but probing.
"It's not just that," he admitted, his tone lower. "No one in my family knows about Saliza yet. They'd kill me if they found out I not only slipped up showing you my ability, but that you were the one to meet her first"
Amy's grin widened, her eyes glinting with amusement. "Well, it looks like I've got a bit of leverage then. Don't worry, I won't say anything... for now, at least."
Jakob, who had almost forgotten how sharp Amy's ambition could be, gave her a sidelong glance. He knew her well enough to see that the gears were already turning in her head.
"Saliza," he said, turning his attention to the snake, "she wants to hold you."
The snake hissed softly, and Jakob couldn't help but smirk.
"What did she say?" Amy asked, excitement lighting up her eyes.
Jakob's smirk widened. "You can reach out your hand, and she'll decide if she wants to bite you or not."
Amy's gaze shifted to Saliza, who parted her mouth just enough to reveal her black fangs before closing it again, her eyes locked on Amy, waiting.
With a calm breath, the black-haired girl extended her hand. Jakob thought she might flinch when Saliza's tongue flicked out, tasting her skin, but Amy's hand remained steady. After a few seconds, Saliza seemed to make her decision, slithering up Amy's arm and coiling herself around her shoulders, settling in much like she did with Jakob.
"She tastes familiar," Saliza hissed as she rested her head on Amy's shoulder. "I like her." Jakob's smirk slowly faded into a frown as he watched the snake's unusual affection.
Amy, catching his glance, raised an eyebrow. "What did this marvellous little princess say?" she asked, her fingers gently tracing Saliza's sleek body. The snake responded with a satisfied hiss, clearly enjoying the attention.
"She said you taste good... and that she likes you," Jakob replied, his smile returning.
Amy smiled at Saliza, then lowered herself onto the grass beside Jakob. "You have a beautiful home, Jakob. I never imagined you lived such a luxurious life, even with your name."
"All you see here," Jakob began, pausing as he glanced around, "belongs to my father. Sure, one day—if I'm lucky and follow every order—I'll inherit it. But there's a high price to pay for land and a last name."
"I see Slytherin's rules have done something to you," Amy remarked.
Jakob shook his head. "This was before Slytherin. I have a plan for my life, and doing what I'm told isn't how I'm going to get there," he said, nodding slightly.
Amy smiled again, and they sat quietly for a while, letting the sounds of the world fill the space between them. The breeze rustled through the trees, and distant voices floated towards them. Amy caught movement in the distance—two figures approaching from behind. Without a word, she gently set Saliza down on the grass.
The two teenagers stood, and Jakob turned to his snake.
"I'll see you tonight, Saliza," Jakob hissed softly.
"I will return shortly," the snake replied before slithering away, vanishing into the tall grass, undoubtedly in search of her next prey.
"There you are," Thomas said as he approached, accompanied by the head of house Frome, Emma, and Susie.
Jakob and Amy walked over to meet them, and Jakob greeted Amy's father with a polite nod. "Welcome, Mr. Frome. I hope you'll enjoy your stay here."
"Heir Quade, I've heard quite a bit about you," Mr Frome replied with a smile, though a slight look of confusion crossed his face. "Forgive me, but I was under the impression you were in your second year?"
Jakob smiled and nodded. "You're correct. I'll be starting my second year after the summer."
Mr Frome turned to Thomas, clearly impressed. "Your son continues to surprise me, Lord Quade. He seems almost as old as my daughter."
Thomas, clearly pleased by the compliment, smiled and gave a small nod of acknowledgement."
"I'll speak with Lord Frome in my office, and I don't want to be disturbed. Susie, we'll need refreshments," Thomas said, his tone final.
Susie curtsied without a word and followed the men into the house, leaving Emma, Jakob, and Amy alone.
Emma glanced at Amy with a slight smile. "Miss Frome, I'd love to hear about the things at Hogwarts that my brother never mentions. Do you mind if I steal you for a while?"
"Of course, Miss Quade. It would be my pleasure," Amy replied, her smile easy.
As the two girls walked away, Jakob stood there, watching them disappear into the distance. Left alone, he wondered what his sister and Amy might talk about.
Maybe this is a good time to try something,
" he thought to himself as he followed the two girls towards the mansion.
Emma and Amy sat in one of the Quade's grand living rooms, their voices occasionally breaking into faint laughter. From his spot in the kitchen, Jakob strained to catch more, though he knew better. Emma had likely cast a silencing charm; she was careful like that when it came to keeping things from him.
Jakob busied himself with the nearest stack of kitchen supplies, rearranging items that didn't need rearranging, his fingers moving deliberately, ready to appear preoccupied if anyone walked in.
Pointing his wand at the floor, he whispered, "Serpensortia."
A small snake appeared, coiling at his feet.
"I need you to sneak into that room," Jakob gestured toward the closed doors, "and listen to what they're saying."
The snake lifted its head, eyeing the doors before turning its gaze back to Its master, remaining so still that he briefly wondered if it had turned into a statue. Finally, it hissed.
"There is food behind there?"
Jakob's patience waned, his expression flat. "Of course..." He muttered, already tired of the attempt. "You're useless."
"Vipera evanesca."
The snake burned up, and the boy thought for a moment.
Saliza could do this, so why not another snake? Jakob thought. Maybe I just need to push a different kind of power into the spell...
"Serpensortia," he hissed, pushing parselmagic into the spell. A larger, cobra-like snake materialized before him, its body coiling as it waited for instructions.
Jakob quickly explained the task, gesturing toward the doors, and then waited for a response.
"I will do it," the snake hissed, its tongue flicking out. "But when I'm done, I expect food."
Jakob's irritation flared. "Yes, yes, I'll get you food. Now go."
Why are they always hungry? He wondered as he watched the cobra slither toward the swing doors, slipping inside with a swift nudge.
After what felt like an eternity, the snake finally returned.
"What did you hear?" Jakob asked, a flicker of hope in his voice.
"They were talking about someone called Jakob," the snake hissed.
The boy's eyes widened. "What were they saying?"
The snake gave a slow hiss in response. "Food."
Jakob sighed in frustration, pulling out his wand and transfiguring two spoons into mice. The snake took its time, savouring each bite.
Once it was done, Jakob leaned in, his patience running thin. "Now, tell me—what did they say?"
The snake stared back at him, confused. "I already told you... They talked about someone named Jakob."
Jakob stared at the snake in disbelief. "You... I…" He pinched the bridge of his nose, trying to suppress his rising irritation.
He pointed his wand at the snake and shot the spell burning it away.
So snakes are all useless for information except for Saliza, then. Good to know.
Just then, the doors opened, and Emma, who had laughed at something, quieted down and smirked as she saw her little brother pinching his nose bridge. As her eyes glanced down, she saw two piles of ashes that looked like they had been snakes.
"So they couldn't listen to our private conversation, little brother?" Emma's voice cut through Jakob's thoughts.
Startled, Jakob quickly turned, grabbing the tray he had prepared with two large sandwiches and two goblets of butterbeer. "No, I was just trying something out... while I made some snacks for you," he replied smoothly.
Emma glanced at the tray, her smirk softening into a smile. "Don't worry, Jake. She's making a good impression."
Jakob straightened slightly, trying to mask the wave of relief that swept over him, but Emma's subtle, knowing smirk told him he wasn't as successful as he thought. He suppressed a sigh, handing over the tray without a word.
"Thank you for the…" Emma glanced down at the massive sandwiches as she took the tray from his hands, her eyebrows quirking in mock surprise. "…snacks. I'll be sure to let Amy know what a good provider you are."
Jakob rolled his eyes, already bracing for the sharp sound of her laughter. Sure enough, she let out a snort as she turned on her heel and disappeared back into the room, the door clicking shut behind her as muffled laughter spilt out from inside.
"Well, this was thoroughly humiliating," he muttered, exhaling sharply. He ran a hand through his neatly combed hair and leaned against the counter, glaring at the door.
When evening fell, Jakob sat at the grand dining table, across from Amy Frome and her father, Lord Antony Frome. Emma sat beside him, composed as usual, while Thomas presided at the head of the table, commanding attention without effort.
Susie and Feemey moved around the table, setting out a lavish assortment of dishes. Jakob felt an uncomfortable prickle under his skin, knowing the meal was another calculated display by his father. Feemey, her neatly tailored clothes standing out, placed a platter in front of Amy, who tilted her head curiously.
"That house elf's outfit is better than most magicals. Is there a reason for that?" Amy asked, her tone more conversational than critical.
Thomas gave a faint shrug and glanced at Jakob. "It's my heir's house elf, Miss Frome. You'll have to ask him."
Amy turned her attention to Jakob, raising an eyebrow. "A house elf of your own at fourteen? That's impressive."
Jakob kept his face composed, fighting the flush rising to his cheeks. "It was a gift from my father after I earned top marks," he explained. "As for the clothes—" He gestured subtly toward Feemey, who was tidying a corner of the table. "I believe loyalty comes from respect. If someone serves me, I ensure they are treated well."
Amy nodded, though it was clear she found the response intriguing. The conversation might have ended there, but Thomas's voice cut through.
"And what about muggles, Jakob?" Thomas asked, his words loaded with purpose.
Jakob kept his expression neutral, though he understood the test behind the question. All eyes turned toward him, the weight of the room shifting. He glanced briefly at his father before responding.
"I wouldn't have muggles as slaves," he said, his tone measured but firm.
Antony leaned forward slightly, his interest piqued. "Then tell me, Heir Quade, what would you have them do?"
Jakob let the silence linger a moment before answering. "Why would I use them for anything, Mr Frome? Lord Grindelwald showed how dangerous muggles can be, but the light side ignored him.
The mention of Grindelwald brought a sudden stillness to the table, the rarely spoken name leaving everyone momentarily stunned. Unfazed, Jakob pressed on, his tone steady and deliberate.
"If I could decide, I would exterminate every single one of them," he said, finishing decisively.
Thomas looked at him, pride evident, though there was a flicker of confusion in his expression. "Well said, my son. It's not exactly what the Dark Lord envisioned, but I see no reason he would oppose those words if he were here tonight. Those muggle filth aren't even worth being slaves."
The conversation shifted naturally, turning to discussions of Grindelwald and Voldemort. Lord Frome and Thomas spoke at length, dissecting ideologies while Jakob listened quietly. Outwardly, he nodded along, but his thoughts were elsewhere.
They think muggles are just tools, he reflected, but they don't realize how much of a threat they are. If muggles discovered our world, they wouldn't hesitate to wipe us out completely.
When the meal ended, Jakob said good night to everyone and went upstairs. Changing into just his pyjama shorts—too warm for the full set and feeling that he might have outgrown it anyway—he readied himself for bed.
As he stepped out of the bathroom, a soft knock on the door interrupted his routine.
He opened the door, but no one was there. Jakob frowned, stepping into the dimly lit corridor. He thought he heard something—a faint shuffle—and caught a glimpse of movement as someone rounded the corner ahead. Closing the door behind him, he walked out.
"Hello?" he called softly, but there was no response.
Jakob's steps were cautious as he moved down the hallway. When he turned the corner, he stopped abruptly.
Amy was there, standing against the wall, her posture casual, though her presence commanded his full attention.
She wore a dark blue nightgown that clung to her in ways that made Jakob's breath hitch. The neckline dipped low, freckles starting at her shoulders and cascading down to the tops of her breasts. His gaze lingered longer than it should have, tracing the delicate edge of lace where the fabric barely covered her. The nightgown stopped mid-thigh, leaving her legs bare, and Jakob's eyes followed their shape, the way they seemed endless beneath the soft fabric.
Amy didn't say a word, but she didn't need to. She tilted her head slightly, her hair falling over one shoulder. Jakob swallowed, feeling like he was seeing her for the first time. He hadn't noticed her freckles in this way before, the way they looked like they were meant to be touched.
His pulse quickened, and for a moment, he felt painfully aware of himself—bare-chested, standing there in nothing but his pyjama shorts. He caught the faintest flicker of Amy's gaze trailing over him, but her face betrayed nothing. She looked back at him, calm as always, though her cheeks were faintly pink.
"I just wanted to thank you for the hospitality your family has shown me," she said, her voice carrying a soft, teasing undertone.
Jakob tried to respond, but his mouth felt dry. He nodded stiffly, unsure if he trusted what might come out if he spoke.
Amy stepped forward, and Jakob's feet stayed rooted to the ground. Her movements were slow, her bare feet silent against the floor. The lavender scent of her skin reached him before she did, and when her arms came around his shoulders, his breath caught. Her body pressed lightly against his as she leaned in, her lips brushing softly against his own.
The kiss was warm and sweet, the faint taste of something he couldn't place lingering on her lips. Jakob didn't move at first, too overwhelmed by the feel of her body against his and the scent of her hair, a mix of lavender and apple. When his hands finally moved, they found her waist, the fabric of her nightgown cool beneath his fingers. Her skin was soft, and he felt the faint tremor of her breath as she leaned closer.
A sudden noise broke the moment. Both of them turned sharply toward the sound, their bodies pulling apart instinctively. The hallway was empty. After a moment Jakob glanced down and realized his hands were still on her waist, holding her as though he hadn't quite let go. He quickly released her, stepping back.
Amy snickered, her face flushed, her breathing uneven. "Good night, Jakob," she said softly, her voice carrying a teasing edge.
She turned her back to him and walked toward her door. Jakob's eyes stayed on her, drawn to the curve of her hips and the way they swayed with every step. The nightgown hugged her just enough to highlight the soft outline of her rear, the fabric shifting with her movements. She reached her door, opened it, and disappeared inside, the faint click leaving the raven-haired boy rooted in place, unable to pull his thoughts back to the present.
Jakob stood there for a few seconds longer, his mind still clouded with the image of her walking away. Suddenly, realizing where he was, he shook himself free of the daze and walked faster than usual back to his room.
When he entered, the room was dim, and Saliza curled up on the right side of his bed, was already asleep. Jakob slipped under the covers quietly, careful not to disturb her, but his thoughts refused to settle. The scene replayed vividly in his mind—the scent of lavender, the soft press of her lips, and the way she had walked away as if nothing had happened.
He frowned, the familiar sensation stirring within him, one he hadn't felt so strongly since that morning in the Slytherin common room. But this time, it was different—more intense, more overwhelming. Something didn't feel quite right.
Curious and uneasy, he lifted the blanket, only to freeze in alarm. "Holy shit, did she see this?" he whispered, his voice hoarse with embarrassment.
With a groan, the embarrassed teenager grabbed a pillow, pressed it over his face, and screamed into it.
The next morning, they all sat together for breakfast. Jakob kept his head down, doing his best not to glance too often at Amy, who sat across from him. Her subtle smirk and the discreet wink she sent his way did nothing to ease his composure.
"So, you'll be going to Diagon Alley today to get your Hogwarts supplies?" Thomas asked, directing his attention toward the two Slytherins.
"Yes," Amy replied smoothly, offering a polite smile to Lord Quade. "I believe it's best to handle it today. If we wait too long, the crowds will only get worse."
"Emma, will you accompany us?" Jakob asked, his tone casual as he shifted his attention toward his sister.
Emma gave Amy a quick glance, one Jakob failed to notice. "No," she replied firmly. "I've already bought my things. I don't need to go."
Jakob nodded, trying not to let the relief show on his face.
After they had finished breakfast, Jakob returned to his room. He sifted through his wardrobe, picking clothes that would make him look his best without appearing as though he'd put in any effort. As he held up a shirt for inspection, Saliza's head poked out from under the covers on his bed.
"Why are you behaving like this?" the snake hissed, her tone laced with curiosity.
"Behaving like what?" Jakob hissed back, narrowing his eyes.
"Like you are preparing to mate."
Jakob froze, staring at his snake with an open mouth. "How do you even know what mating is? You're practically a baby!"
"I meet other snakes," Saliza replied matter-of-factly. "They whisper things. Are you preparing to mate?"
"No!" Jakob snapped, affronted by the suggestion.
Saliza tilted her head slightly, her tongue flicking in and out. "Hmm. Do you think I should mate?"
Jakob groaned, pinching the bridge of his nose. "Wait a second, Saliza… Are other snakes trying to mate with you?"
"They are," Saliza replied nonchalantly. "But I swallowed them before they could try."
"You… swallowed them? Saliza, why wou—" Jakob stopped mid-sentence, waving his hand dismissively. "It doesn't matter. Saliza, you are not allowed to mate with other snakes now. Got it?"
"Understood," she said simply, retreating back under the covers.
Shaking his head in exasperation, Jakob sighed, muttering under his breath as he slipped on his shirt and left the room.
When Jakob came down, he saw Thomas and Antony waiting by the floo. His father glanced at him and chuckled lightly.
"Ah, dressed for the occasion, I see," Thomas stated, his tone teasing. Jakob cursed himself inwardly for being so obvious.
Antony gave him a faint smile and nodded in approval. "The gesture is sure to be appreciated, young man."
Jakob returned the nod, his posture stiff as he adjusted his sleeves. Before he could respond, Amy entered the room, drawing the attention of all three men.
Her hair was pinned up neatly, though a few locks framed her face, softening her sharp features. She wore a tailored, coat-like robe that clung snugly to her waist before flowing loosely down to her ankles. With each confident step, the Slytherin boy caught glimpses of black pantyhose disappearing into elegant, pointed shoes.
Thomas exchanged a look with Antony, speaking low enough that only he would catch it. "Another one dressed for the occasion," he muttered. Antony chuckled quietly in response, but neither Jakob nor Amy seemed to notice.
Once everyone was ready to leave, Thomas handed Jakob a pouch, leaning in slightly. Antony, meanwhile, passed a list of supplies to Amy and spoke in a measured tone, though Jakob couldn't make out the words.
"There are times not to waste Galleons on frivolities," Thomas murmured, keeping his voice low as his eyes flicked briefly toward Amy. "This is not one of them. That pouch holds enough to buy a house—use it well. Show them the generosity of House Quade."
Jakob swallowed, feeling the weight of the pouch in his hand. "I will, Father. Thank you."
Thomas placed a firm hand on Jakob's shoulder, his gaze softening slightly. "Take good care of her."
Jakob nodded, stealing a quick glance at Amy. She was listening intently to Antony, her posture composed, though she shot Jakob a brief, unreadable look before turning her attention back to her father.
"I understand," Jakob said finally, his voice steady.
The two teens emerged from the floo in a swirl of green flames, stepping into the dimly lit Leaky Cauldron. Jakob brushed the soot from his sleeves as he scanned the room. Before he could take a step toward the door, he felt Amy's hand slip around his arm, her firm grip catching him off guard.
"Are you sure you want everyone to see us like this?" Jakob asked, raising an eyebrow.
Amy's lips curved into a faint smile, her tone light yet deliberate. "At school, I'm your prefect, and it would not be… suitable for either of us to behave like this. But right now, we're not at school. Right now, we're Miss Frome and Heir Quade." She leaned closer, brushing an imaginary strand of lint off his robes, her fingers lingering for a moment longer than necessary.
Jakob hesitated for a beat before adjusting his robes subtly, tucking away the crest that marked his family's prominence. The last thing he wanted was to draw unnecessary attention, especially now. With Amy by his side, the last thing on his mind was the Quade legacy.
"You look very handsome today, Heir Quade," she remarked, her tone teasing as she gave his arm a small squeeze. Jakob felt heat rise to his face but managed a smirk as they stepped out into the bustling crowd of Diagon Alley.
As they strolled past shop windows and street vendors, Jakob turned to her. "Where would you like to go first?"
Amy pulled out her list, scanning it briefly before they made their way to their first stop. Together, they moved efficiently through the stores, crossing off items as they went. By the time they left their fourth stop, Slug and Jiggers, Jakob felt the weight of the potion ingredients pressing in his bag. Feemey had made an appearance to collect most of the purchases, sparing Jakob from carrying the full load.
As they continued down the cobblestone street, Amy suddenly stopped, her gaze fixed on the ornate storefront ahead—Twillfit and Tattings. The shop's elegant window display featured mannequins dressed in robes so finely detailed that the light seemed to shimmer off the silver embroidery.
Jakob followed her line of sight, his curiosity piqued. He remembered Narcissa Malfoy speaking about this shop, her tone laced with approval. If Narcissa considered it worthy, it was likely one of the most prestigious establishments in Diagon Alley.
"I love this place," Amy said, her tone softer than usual as she glanced back at Jakob. "Would you mind if we went inside for a bit?"
Jakob nodded, stepping forward to open the door for her. "Not at all."
The shop exuded luxury the moment they entered. The faint scent of polished wood mingled with the warm glow of enchanted chandeliers, casting soft light over displays of robes, shoes, and even delicate lingerie. Ornate charmed mannequins posed gracefully, each showcasing an outfit more extravagant than the last.
Jakob, though used to displays of wealth, paused to take it in. Even Narcissa's praise hadn't prepared him for the sheer exclusivity of the place.
Amy, meanwhile, drifted toward a rack of robes, her fingers brushing against a deep blue dress with intricate silver threading. Her expression was unreadable for a moment, but Jakob caught the way her eyes lingered on the garment.
"Can I help you with something?" The sharp voice made Jakob turn. An older witch, thin and stern, approached with her nose slightly upturned. Her name tag read Mrs. Twilfitt.
"No," Jakob said evenly. "I'm just here with her." He gestured to Amy, who was now lifting the dress to examine it closer.
Mrs. Twilfitt's gaze darted toward Amy, her lips tightening. "Dear boy," she began, her tone edging on condescension, "this shop is rather exclusive. I don't think—"
Jakob's expression didn't shift, but there was an edge to his voice when he interrupted. "I'm aware of how exclusive it is. Narcissa Malfoy herself told me this was the finest shop in Diagon Alley."
The mention of Narcissa seemed to catch Mrs. Twilfitt off guard. Her eyes flickered between Jakob and Amy, then settled on the dress Amy was holding. "That piece is reserved," she said curtly.
Amy's smile faltered, though she masked it quickly. She returned the dress to its rack, murmuring, "It's fine. I was just looking."
Jakob stepped closer, his voice low enough that only the older witch could hear. "How much?"
Mrs. Twilfitt straightened. "It isn't for sale," she said stiffly. "It's been reserved."
Jakob sighed, his patience thinning. He had no time to convince the shopkeeper and instead sighed as he slipped a hand into his pocket, retrieving the Quade family crest and holding it up. Jakob's eye twitched with irritation as he saw the effect was instant—her sharp demeanour crumbled into something resembling reverence.
"I—I see," she stammered, her tone shifting to one of respect. "Of course, Heir Quade. My apologies for the misunderstanding."
"No need for apologies," Jakob replied, his tone clipped. "Just ensure she gets everything she wants and is treated properly."
Mrs. Twilfitt inclined her head in a slight bow before hurrying toward Amy, her demeanour entirely transformed. Jakob settled into a plush chair near the fitting area, watching as the older witch began pulling dresses, shoes, and accessories for Amy to try.
Mrs. Twilfitt led Amy to a slight podium surrounded by angled mirrors, gesturing for her to step up. "Stand here, my dear," she instructed, her wand flicking toward a rack of gowns. A flowing green dress floated across the room and wrapped itself around Amy with a soft shimmer. The enchanted mirrors adjusted slightly, ensuring Amy could see herself from every angle.
As Amy hesitated in front of the mirrors, turning to inspect herself, Mrs. Twilfitt worked tirelessly. She summoned gowns of various colours and styles, ensuring each one was tailored perfectly to Amy's frame. Amy tried on everything from elegant formal robes to day dresses, her initial hesitation fading as Mrs Twilfitt paired them with shoes and hats to match. Each ensemble seemed to highlight a different side of her, and Jakob found himself quietly watching as she began to smile more freely.
At one point, Mrs Twilfitt paused. "Wait here, my dear. I have just the thing to bring out the color of your eyes." With a final nod, she disappeared into the back of the shop.
Amy lingered on the platform for a moment, her eyes scanning the assortment of clothes before her. A worried frown tugged at her lips as she gathered the hem of her gown, lifting it slightly to step down with care. Without hesitation, she moved swiftly across the room, her focus fixed on her silent observer.
"Jakob, I really can't accept all of this," she whispered, her voice urgent. "It's too much."
Jakob tilted his head slightly, his gaze unwavering. "It's not about what you can accept, Ms Frome. It's about what I want to give you. Consider it a gift."
Amy opened her mouth to respond, but her attention snapped to the sound of approaching footsteps. She glanced quickly toward the back, realizing Mrs. Twilfitt was returning, and lifted her gown again, hurrying back to the podium. She barely managed to compose herself as the older witch reappeared with a delicate silver shawl in hand.
When all was said and done, Mrs. Twilfitt walked to the counter, quill in hand, ready to tally the final cost. Jakob stood in front of her, calm and steady, while Amy stood beside him, glancing at the boxes stacked around them—dresses, hats, shoes, and other accessories, each carefully wrapped and waiting. The shopkeeper, now entirely respectful, took her place behind the counter.
She glanced at Jakob as she began writing. "Would you like enchantments added to the garments, sir? Anti-creasing, self-repairing, and seasonal temperature-regulating charms are available. There is an additional charge for each item, but they will ensure everything stays in excellent condition."
Amy leaned forward quickly, her voice hurried. "Oh, that's not necessary. They're already—"
Jakob raised a hand, his tone calm but leaving no room for debate. "Add the enchantments to everything," he said. "Just give me the total with them."
Mrs. Twilfitt nodded, her quill moving quickly as she scribbled down the adjustments. Amy glanced at him, fidgeting slightly, but Jakob didn't react. When the shopkeeper finished, she folded her hands and looked up.
"That will be 9,628 Galleons and 14 Sickles, including the enchantments for all garments and accessories," she said with a polite smile.
Jakob reached into his pocket and placed his coin pouch on the counter, not even blinking at the number. "Good," he said simply.
Amy stared at him, her face heating. "That's absurd," she said, her voice lower but urgent. "You can't spend that much on me. I won't allow it."
Jakob turned his head slightly to meet her gaze. A faint smirk tugged at the corner of his mouth. "It's already done, Amy," he said, his voice quiet but steady. "And besides, that blue dress you looked at first? It can only look better with you wearing it."
Amy's protest faltered. Her eyes shifted to the boxes stacked neatly around them, then back to Jakob. This wasn't the boy she had always known—he had grown up. There was a calm authority in him now, a quiet confidence that felt… Older.
Her voice, when she finally spoke, was softer. For the first time, there was a trace of submission in her tone, something unintentional but impossible to ignore.
"Thank you… for everything." she said.
Jakob's eyebrow lifted slightly, the reaction subtle but there.
He nodded once before turning back toward the shopkeeper. She pointed her wand at the pouch, and with a faint smile, the required amount was transferred.
Jakob took a steady breath, prepared to summon Feemey to collect the boxes when the doorbell chimed. A voice broke the moment.
"What do we have here?"
Jakob didn't need to turn to recognize that sound. He turned anyway, his suspicions confirmed as Narcissa Malfoy entered the store first, followed closely by Lucius,
"Jakob," Narcissa greeted, her eyes immediately scanning the scene. "It's so good to see you. I can now understand why your father said you wouldn't be joining us today." She closed the distance, giving Jakob a brief but familiar hug. "And who is your lucky friend?" she asked, her gaze shifting toward Amy before settling on the stack of boxes. Her brow arched slightly, before returning her focus towards the heir before her.
"It's always a pleasure to see you, Narcissa," Jakob replied evenly, inclining his head toward Lucius. "And you as well, Lucius."
Lucius offered a small nod and a faint, approving smile.
Jakob gestured toward Amy, who stood just behind him. "This is my friend, Amy Frome. We were just finishing up here."
Narcissa's gaze rested on Amy for a moment, her expression unreadable to most, though Amy recognized it immediately. She was being evaluated and weighed silently to determine if she was truly worthy of the Quade heir's interest. Whatever conclusion Narcissa reached, she gave no indication. Instead, her lips curved ever so slightly into a thoughtful smile.
"I see," she remarked lightly, her tone laced with polite curiosity. "Miss Frome must be quite special if all these fine purchases are intended for her."
"She is," Jakob answered simply, glancing at Amy with a small smile before continuing. "She's been keeping me company today, and I thought it was only right to show her my appreciation."
Amy returned the smile but shifted slightly, clearly unsure where to place herself under the sudden attention.
"I'm glad to see you've taken my lessons to heart," Narcissa said smoothly. "I always told you and Draco that treating women correctly is proper pureblood etiquette."
She turned toward Amy, her demeanour softening as she extended a hand. Lucius stood just behind her, silent but watchful, his expression unreadable save for the faintest flicker of interest.
"And you must be Miss Frome," Narcissa said warmly, her voice quieter but no less commanding as she took Amy's hand. "A friend of Jakob's is always a friend to the Malfoys."
Amy returned the handshake politely, though Jakob could see the slight tension in her shoulders. "It's a pleasure and an honor to meet you both," she said sincerely.
"Frome..." Lucius said, his sharp gaze narrowing slightly, though there was no harshness in his tone. "I recognize that name. Are you a prefect in Slytherin?"
Amy nodded, her voice steady. "Yes, Lord Malfoy, I am."
"Ah, excellent. Then you do a great service to both the house and the school."
Beside him, Narcissa rolled her eyes lightly but smiled. "My husband was a prefect and head boy. You've already been approved in his eyes."
Amy lowered her head slightly in acknowledgement, offering a polite bow. The gesture earned the faintest smile from Lucius in return.
"Come, darling," Lucius said after a moment, his tone directed at Narcissa. "We should let the youths continue with their shopping."
"It's been a pleasure to meet you both," Narcissa said, giving Amy one last appraising look before allowing her husband to guide her further into the store.
Amy nodded quickly. "Likewise, Lady Malfoy."
Jakob watched the two retreat deeper into the shop before turning back to Amy. She smiled, but there was still something hesitant in her expression.
It took Feemey three trips to get all the boxes, and when the task was done, Amy and Jakob decided ice cream was next on their list and this time, Amy insisted on paying.
Sitting on a bench, they watched as people moved from one shop to another, carrying bags and chatting animatedly. Jakob took a lick of his ice cream, his gaze fixed on the crowd for a moment before he turned to Amy. There was something he needed to ask.
"Did I say something in the store that offended you?"
"What?" Amy looked at him, pausing mid-lick.
"In the store," Jakob repeated, his tone quieter now. "You looked tense. I just want to figure out what I did wrong so I can apologize if I need to."
Amy blinked, then smiled softly. "You didn't do anything wrong, Jakob," she said, her voice calm but reflective. "But you need to understand something."
Jakob nodded, leaning forward slightly as Amy let out a small sigh.
"Where I come from," she began, "there's no grand mansion, no shopping sprees like that, and people like your family or the Malfoys wouldn't even look twice at me—even if I'm a pureblood."
Jakob frowned, his brows knitting together. "I saw you."
"Yes," Amy said, her smile widening slightly. "But you're different. You have a life that most people could only dream of having. Seeing how close you are to the Malfoys, and then having them notice me? It's… different. It's a lot."
Her words hung in the air for a moment before she reached out and took his hand gently. "I really enjoy your company," she continued, her tone earnest. "But I know there are a lot of powerful people I'd have to impress if I want to keep enjoying it."
Jakob's frown deepened as he considered her words. "I understand what you mean, but you don't need to impress anyone. You're my friend. If I care about you, they will too."
Amy squeezed his hand and turned her gaze toward the bustling street. "I'm just happy to have gotten these two days with you," she said softly. "People would kill to have that."
Jakob was quiet for a moment before standing. Amy followed, and they threw their empty ice cream cones into the nearby bins. Jakob turned to her, his expression lighter now.
"Today," he said with a growing smile, "I'll show you the perks of my house."
Amy looped her arm through his, her smile matching his as they started walking again.
This time it was Jakob's turn to choose a shop. They continued down the cobblestone street, weaving through the Saturday crowd.
"If you let a boy choose the store..." Amy began with a sigh, expecting the usual, but she frowned when they passed Quality Quidditch Supplies without so much as a glance and instead turned into a narrow, dimly lit alley.
"You know where we're going?" Jakob asked, clearly amused by her confusion.
Amy snorted and shook her head. "I thought you were taking me to the Quidditch shop, but—"
"No," Jakob interrupted, his lips curling into a sly grin. "I'm taking you there." He pointed toward a shop nestled at the end of the alley. Its shabby exterior didn't match anything she'd associate with a pureblood heir. One window was cracked, and the sign overhead was so faded it was nearly unreadable.
Amy frowned. "Do you take all the girls to lovely places like this?" she asked dryly, eyeing the broken window.
Jakob chuckled. "The best treasures aren't found where everyone else is searching."
She rolled her eyes but followed him through the creaky door.
Inside, the shop was a stark contrast to its weathered exterior. The air smelled faintly of parchment and leather, and the shelves were crowded with items that ranged from junk to genuine valuables. There were bags and chests with extension charms, old and new jewellery, ancient books, and magical artefacts she couldn't even name. Amy's initial scepticism melted as she wandered the aisles, taking it all in.
"This isn't trash," she muttered, running her fingers along the spine of a thick, gold-embossed book. "Well, some of it is, but… there's a lot of good stuff here."
Jakob smirked as he walked past her, heading toward a display case in the centre of the shop. He stopped in front of a black dragon-hide chest. It caught his attention immediately—the sleek, durable material gleamed faintly under the shop's dim lighting, and the acromantula silk handle gave it an edge of elegance. Attached was a small note:
Includes Extension Charms. 3 rooms. Lock by a spoken password. Warming Charm (Rooms 1 and 2). Silencing Charm.
Jakob raised an eyebrow and lifted the chest to inspect it. "How much for this?" he asked the clerk, who had just stepped out from behind the counter.
The clerk approached with a practised smile that turned into a genuine one when he saw one of his usual customers.
"Ah, it's a pleasure to see you again, Heir Quade. That's part of our newest collection. It's 1,000 Galleons, but for an additional 200, we offer two complimentary visits to add new charms if any are developed."
Jakob nodded. "I'll take it."
As the clerk opened the display box and took out the chest, Jakob wandered toward Amy, who was standing by a jewellery display. Her gaze was fixed on a pair of earrings—delicate silver snowflakes with shimmering purple gems at the centre.
"They'd match your eyes," Jakob said casually, stepping up beside her. "You like them?"
Amy hesitated. "I do, but—"
"Then they're yours," he said, cutting her off. He waved at the clerk, who quickly retrieved the earrings and placed them in a small, velvet-lined box.
Amy gave Jakob a smile, shaking her head. "You're really spoiling me today, Heir Quade."
Jakob shrugged, his smirk returning. "I told you I'd show you the perks of my house today."
As they moved to another section of the shop, something caught Amy's eye. Tucked in a display case was an elegantly carved arm wand holster. The leather was black and embossed with silver runes, and the enchantment tags beside it listed features: Disarming resistance, reinforced durability, and quick-release charm.
Amy stepped closer, reading the details. "This… this is incredible," she said, her voice tinged with awe.
Jakob joined her, glancing at the holster. "You duel?"
"I've been practicing," Amy said softly, her fingers brushing the glass. "I'm not great yet, but one day I plan to rival Antonin Dolohov."
Jakob saw the determination in her eyes. He hadn't known she wanted to be a duelist, and he couldn't help the small smile that formed as he looked at her. "You'll be the greatest duelist of our time." He waved the clerk over again. "This too."
Amy, who had been mesmerized by the holster, turned to him, startled. "Jakob, you don't have to—"
"I know I don't," Jakob said simply, his tone leaving no room for argument. "But I want to."
The clerk carefully retrieved the holster, wrapping it in protective paper before sliding it into a box. Jakob glanced at Amy, smirking at her stunned expression. "A good duelist needs the right tools. Consider it an investment."
Amy stared at him for a moment, then shook her head with a smile. "I'm not even going to argue with you anymore."
They spent a little more time browsing, and before they left, Jakob chose a smaller bag for Amy. Made of the same black dragon hide as his chest, it had a sleek, elegant design and came enchanted with a spoken password and an extension charm.
"This matches mine," Jakob said, handing it to her.
Amy inspected the bag, her fingers trailing over the smooth leather. "It's perfect," she admitted.
Jakob gave her a satisfied nod. "I thought so."
By the time they left the shop, Feemey was already waiting to collect their purchases, and Jakob couldn't help but feel a sense of accomplishment as they stepped back onto the cobblestone street.
When they walked out, Amy took out her list and said, "We need to get our new books."
Jakob nodded, and they shifted direction toward the bookstore.
When they entered, the store was packed, with people crowding into a long line that stretched from the counter to the door.
"What's going on?" Jakob asked, frowning.
An older woman turned around, her eyes bright with excitement. "Gilderoy Lockhart is here, signing books!" she said breathlessly.
Jakob rolled his eyes.
Amy, who had overheard, looked at Jakob and smirked. "Oh, don't you like the charming hero?"
"He's worse than Potter," Jakob muttered, his voice filled with disdain. "And I almost feel disgusted saying that out loud."
Amy laughed, her amusement genuine, as she tugged him toward the stairs, away from the chaos downstairs. "I know, but you have to give him some credit. That prick knows how to make young girls—and older ladies—swoon over him."
Jakob glanced at her, his lips curling into a smirk. "What about you then? Should we stand in line?"
Amy rolled her eyes and pinched his arm. "Don't even try."
When they reached the second floor, the noise from below became muffled, and they leaned on the railing to watch the chaos.
"I'm not just any girl, Jakob," Amy said, her tone teasing but layered with meaning. "I only fall for boys who manage to catch my interest."
Jakob froze for a moment, caught off guard by her words and the look she gave him. The way her eyes lingered, steady and certain, sent a rush of heat through him. He fought the sudden, irrational urge to kiss her right there, his pulse quickening as he turned away to look back at the crowd below.
"Damn these hormones," he muttered under his breath, forcing himself to focus on the chaos downstairs.
Amy had noticed the shift in his gaze, the intensity that had flared for a fleeting moment. There had been something almost primal in his expression—feral, even—and it sent an unexpected shiver down her spine. She looked away almost at the exact moment he had.
Jakob's attention was drawn to a family of redheads standing in line near the signing table. He recognized the Potters among them, their presence as unmistakable as ever. His jaw tightened slightly as he watched Harry chatting animatedly with the girl beside him.
Amy, noticing his fixed stare, followed his gaze to the scene below.
"Oh, how cute—blood traitors and Mudbloods," Amy said with disgust, her gaze fixed on the group below.
Jakob, still watching the scene unfold, said nothing but gave a slight nod.
Moments later, Lucius entered the store with Draco at his side. Their arrival caused an immediate stir as Lucius approached the Potters and the redheaded Weasley family. Jakob noticed the way Lucius's irritation seemed to grow with every passing second of the conversation.
"This isn't good," Jakob murmured. "There are too many of them."
Amy observed the tension below and nodded. "Do you have an idea?"
Jakob didn't reply. Instead, he drew his wand and pointed it discreetly at the floor.
"Serpensortia," he whispered, and a snake materialized, coiling on the ground before straightening to face him. Jakob crouched slightly, lowering his head to hiss softly at the creature. "Bite the redhead down there," he instructed.
The snake flicked its tongue in response before slithering silently toward the stairs.
"What did you tell it?" Amy asked, leaning over the railing to watch the commotion below.
"I told it to bite the redhead," Jakob answered, smirking as he continued to observe.
Amy raised an eyebrow, her tone curious. "There are a lot of them down there. You didn't specify which one?"
Jakob glanced at her, his smirk widening. "Why bother? They're all blood traitors."
Amy met his grin with one of her own, and their shared amusement was not interrupted by a sharp scream from below.
The two Slytherins turned their attention toward the source of the sound and smiled victoriously.
The crowd parted in alarm as Percy Weasley fell to the ground, clutching his ankle where the snake had struck. Chaos erupted as the Potters and Weasleys shouted and scrambled to help.
The Potter patriarch acted swiftly, transfiguring a nearby book into an arrow, which flew across the room and pierced the snake. With the snake dealt with, the Weasleys hurriedly began to gather their belongings, retreating toward the exit alongside the Potters—all except Harry's father, who remained behind, his gaze scanning the upper levels of the store.
Jakob stiffened slightly as he saw the man begin to ascend the stairs, his sharp eyes scanning for the source of the commotion.
"Quickly—Flirt with me," Jakob said, his voice low but urgent.
Amy caught on immediately, her lips twitching into a mischievous smile as she raised a hand to caress his cheek. As the elder Potter neared their level, she leaned in and pressed her lips against his.
Jakob's initial surprise melted away almost instantly. A fire ignited within him, and any thoughts of strategy or misdirection vanished. His hand slipped around her waist, pulling her closer, while the other tangled gently in her hair. He heard Amy make a soft, surprised sound before her arms wrapped around him, drawing them even closer.
From the corner of his eye, Jakob noticed the Potter patriarch freeze for a moment before visibly deciding to ignore the two "smitten" teenagers.
The man continued past them, giving no indication of suspicion.
When Amy finally broke the kiss, Jakob's gaze followed hers, noting that the elder Potter had disappeared from view. His focus shifted back to her, and he realized what had just happened. Amy smirked at him, clearly pleased with herself.
"You're full of surprises, Heir Quade. I thought you only wanted a kiss," she said lightly, taking his arm as if nothing had happened.
Jakob recovered quickly, smirking back. "If you surprise me like that, why shouldn't I return the favor?" he replied as they began descending the stairs.
"That was some surprise," Amy said, her voice carrying a playful, almost purring tone.
When they reached the ground floor, they collected their books and walked out of the store.
They decided to have lunch at the Leaky Cauldron. The cosy, bustling pub was filled with the chatter of patrons and the clinking of goblets, but Jakob barely noticed. His thoughts had been circling a particular question, and as they sat down with their food, he decided to ask.
"Amy," he began, his tone casual but edged with curiosity. "Do you know who will be the next queen or king?"
Amy took a sip of her drink, her expression calm but unreadable. "Yes," she answered simply.
Jakob studied her carefully. "And I suppose you won't tell me?"
Amy shook her head, a faint smile tugging at the corner of her lips. "Sorry, but only the Slytherin Five knows, and we aren't allowed to tell anyone else."
Jakob leaned back slightly, his gaze lingering on her. He tapped his fingers lightly on the table as he asked his next question.
"So, if I asked whether you would be the next in line, what would you tell me?"
Amy paused, lowering her goblet. Her eyes met his, and for a moment, she seemed to weigh her response.
"It's not me yet," she said finally, her voice measured. "I can tell you that much, but…" She trailed off, picking up her goblet again.
"But what?" Jakob pressed, his curiosity growing.
Amy's gaze flickered away, and she took another sip before setting the goblet down. "I can't say… just yet."
Jakob's expression didn't shift, but he filed her words away, determined to uncover the full truth eventually.
When they finished their meal, the two left the famous shopping street and headed back home.
When they arrived home, they were greeted by Emma and Ella, who had clearly been waiting for them.
Emma's eyes immediately landed on the mountain of packages. "What did you get, Amy?" she asked, her curiosity evident. Without waiting for an answer, she quickly ushered Amy away to go through all the boxes, leaving Jakob to contend with a new distraction.
Eager for her own trip to Diagon Alley the next day, Ella cornered him with a flurry of questions about the best stores to visit and what kind of wand she should choose at Ollivander's. He gave her short, practical answers, but her endless stream of inquiries quickly tested his patience. After what felt like forever, he finally managed to send her off so he could retreat to his room.
Jakob was just preparing for bed, the house finally enveloped in silence, when a soft knock broke the stillness at his door.
His heart quickened as he moved toward it, a mix of anticipation and curiosity tightening his chest with every step. When he opened the door, he found Amy standing there, draped in another nightgown—this one undeniably from the shop they had visited earlier.
"I wanted you to see it," the Slytherin prefect said, her voice soft as she brushed her slightly curly black hair away, revealing the snowflake earrings he had picked for her. Without waiting for an invitation, she stepped into his room.
Jakob instinctively stepped back as she closed the distance between them. His eyes flickered over the black nightgown, which was undoubtedly not designed with just sleep in mind.
He gulped. "It's… beautiful," he managed to say, his voice a little hoarse.
"You think? It's not too short?" Amy asked teasingly, her fingers toying with the hem of the fabric. Slowly, she lifted it just enough to reveal a hint of black lace beneath.
Jakob swallowed hard, his chest tightening.
"You know, this is the last night," she said, her voice laced with an edge of playfulness. "And there's only one thing I can think of that I want to do before I leave."
"What would that be, Amy?" he asked, his tone low as he took a step toward her.
She noticed the glint in his eyes—the same one that had given her chills back at the bookstore. Her pulse quickened as she mirrored his step forward.
"The kiss in the bookstore," she said, her voice quieter now. "It came out of nowhere… and I'd like to feel that feeling again before school starts."
Jakob took another step closer, raising a hand to her back. His touch was gentle and deliberate, and she leaned in as he did. Their lips met again, this time slower, teasing, their breaths mingling before the kiss deepened.
Jakob pulled her closer, one arm wrapping around her while the other began to trail downward. His hand slipped under the hem of her nightgown and rested on the curve of her hip before sliding lower to cup her rear, pulling her firmly against him. Amy let out a soft, surprised sound, but it quickly melted into something more pleasurable as she kissed him with more intensity. Her tongue found his, and their kiss became almost dizzying for him.
Before Jakob could let his hands wander further, Amy broke the kiss, her lips curved into a satisfied yet restrained smile. She leaned her forehead against his, her breaths mingling with his as she steadied herself.
"We have to be careful," she said softly. "We can't let this go too far."
Jakob closed his eyes, trying to rein in his breathing and the frantic beating of his heart.
"What's going to change at school?" he asked after a moment of silence, still holding her close.
"When we return, we can't do this," she said, her voice heavy with regret. "If anyone found out, it could spell trouble for both of us. I'm a prefect, and you're the heir to the Quade family. Rumors that we're… using each other would ruin us."
Jakob knew she was right, but the thought of staying away from her left a bitter taste in his mouth. His disappointment must have shown because Amy leaned in, kissing him softly one last time before stepping back.
She reached into the neckline of her nightgown, her fingers deftly slipping into the fabric near her chest. Pulling out a small envelope, she handed it to him with a sly smile. "Something to look at if you start to miss me too much," she said, her voice teasing again. Without another word, she turned and walked out, closing the door softly behind her.
Jakob stared at the envelope for a long moment before finally letting out a breath.
"Are you done mating?" hissed Saliza from her hole.
"We did not mate! And can you stop saying that word? It's weird!" Jakob hissed back, his irritation clear as he walked away from the snake.
Shaking his head, Jakob climbed back into his bed and pulled out the envelope Amy had given him. He opened it, his curiosity piqued, and his eyes widened at what he found.
Inside was a moving picture of Amy, wearing the same nightgown she'd shown him earlier. She struck a series of playful poses, her expression teasing as she winked at him and ended the sequence with a flirtatious blow-kiss.
Holy shit, Jakob thought, his heart racing as he stared at the picture. He watched every second of it, entranced, before finally turning it over. On the back was a note written in Amy's neat, elegant script:
For your eyes and only yours/ Amy.
P.S. If you show anyone, I'm going to kill you.
Jakob chuckled softly, shaking his head. She was one of a kind, and this picture… it was going to stay with him forever.
He turned it over again, unable to resist one last look. A satisfied smile spread across his face as he leaned back against his pillow, tucking the picture under it for safekeeping.
Tonight, he was sure he'd sleep better than ever.
When Amy and her father stood to say goodbye to the Quades, Jakob stepped forward to shake the man's hand, his grip firm and respectful. Turning to Amy, he pulled her into a hug, holding her a moment longer than usual.
"I'm going to miss you," she whispered softly, her voice just for him.
"Me too," Jakob whispered back.
When they finally released each other, Amy gave him a warm smile, her eyes lingering on his for a heartbeat before she stepped into the green flames with her father. In a flash, they were gone, leaving only the faint scent of the Floo powder behind.
Jakob stood there for a moment, staring at the empty space where they had been, a flicker of disappointment crossing his face.
Emma, who had been watching quietly from the side, noticed his mood immediately.
A pang of jealousy struck her as she watched her little brother look after Amy like that. She didn't fully understand it, but the way his eyes lingered, the softness in his expression—it unsettled her. Jakob was hers. He always had been.
Forcing a smile, she stepped forward and slipped her arm through his.
"Well, it looks like I'll have to keep you company today," Emma said, her tone light but tinged with something unspoken. "Can't have my little brother sulking around the house."
Jakob gave her a faint smirk, though the look in his eyes was still distant. "I'm not sulking."
Emma raised an eyebrow, her expression sceptical. "Sure you're not. Come on, you'll feel better after I thoroughly embarrass you at chess."
Ella returned home in the evening, carrying an assortment of items she had eagerly picked out for school. Susie was the first to thank Thomas, her gratitude clear, but the old man waved her off with his usual gruff demeanour.
"She has to go to school, and she represents the house of Quade. Of course, she's having the best," he said. Still, the faint twitch of a smile on his lips gave him away. Watching Ella chatter excitedly about the spells she wanted Jakob to teach her had softened something in his usually stern expression. Though he wouldn't say it, he was happy for her.
The day of departure came quickly, and the Quade family made their way to Platform 9. Ella stood by the train, giving her goodbyes to Susie, who, for the first time, hugged one of the children in public. The housekeeper's embrace was quick but warm, and Ella smiled brightly in return.
Jakob said his farewell to Thomas, who nodded firmly before disapparating alongside Susie. Emma, already at her own school, had sent her goodbyes earlier.
Jakob adjusted his bag, which carried Saliza when a familiar hiss came from within.
"You still haven't told them about me," she complained, her tone sharp and accusatory.
"I will," Jakob murmured as he glanced at the now-empty space where his father had stood. "Just not now."
Saliza huffed, the sound distinctly unimpressed. Still, her tone softened as Jakob described Hogwarts, her interest clearly growing at the thought of the castle.
Once aboard the train, Ella walked ahead, her excitement spilling over as she rattled on about all the things she wanted to try at Hogwarts. Jakob followed close behind, allowing her energy to carry them forward.
She turned mid-sentence, still walking backwards as she gestured animatedly, her face lit with enthusiasm. Jakob nodded along, a small smile tugging at his lips as he watched her, not paying much attention to the narrow corridor or who might be approaching.
The train jolted slightly, and at the same moment, someone stepped out of a compartment on their right, their head turned back as they spoke to someone inside. The timing couldn't have been worse.
Ella spun back around just as the person stepped into her path, and the two collided hard.
She gasped, stumbling backwards from the impact, her arms flailing to catch her balance. Jakob reacted instantly, his hand darting out to grab her arm, steadying her before she could hit the floor.
"Bloody hell, watch where you're going!" the boy snapped, his tone sharp and annoyed.
Jakob's head snapped toward the voice, his expression hardening as he immediately stepped in front of Ella, shielding her from the boy's glare.
Ella, still flustered from the collision, peeked out from behind Jakob, brushing strands of blonde hair out of her face. "I'm… I'm sorry," she said softly, her voice hesitant, tinged with embarrassment.
The boy's emerald-green eyes locked onto hers, his glare sharp. His irritation only seemed to intensify as his gaze shifted to Jakob, now standing protectively between them.
"Don't apologize, Ella. Not to blood traitors," Jakob said coldly. His own emerald eyes never wavered from Harry's, "And he should be the one apologizing for walking into you."
Harry's lips curled into a humourless smile, his voice biting as he shot back, "Does that girl even know what a wannabe Death Eater you are, Quade? Or have you been too busy playing the hero? Are you already trying to recruit her?"
From behind Harry, Ron Weasley appeared in the corridor, his scowl deepening the moment his eyes landed on Jakob.
Ivory followed moments later, her arms loosely folded as she approached the doorway. Her eyes flicked between Ella and Jakob, her expression softening as she looked at the younger girl. Sympathy crossed her features, and she cast Harry a pointed look that seemed to silently say, let it go. Harry however ignored his twin sister completely.
Jakob's stance stiffened, his shoulders squaring as his narrowed eyes locked on Harry. There was no hesitation in his mind, no second thought.
Oh. I'm gonna kill him.