#dumbledore+x+reader

[vigilante-3073]

Honey & Lemon

Draco Malfoy x Female Hufflepuff Reader

Summary: Draco Malfoy has always longed to be loved and accepted. As he falls in love with Y/N, a studious young Hufflepuff, he starts to wonder if his happy ending may be closer than he could've expected.

TW: Lovesick Draco, kissing, hand holding, jokes.

Draco Malfoy met Y/N L/N when he was in his third year at Hogwarts. If he had to be completely honest, he didn't know that she existed before she stood in front of him after their Potions class that day.

Y/N had always been a good student but she had a lot of trouble with Potions. Y/N had gone to Professor Snape for help and he sent her to Draco for some tutoring. Draco was at the top of the class and Y/N could learn a lot from him.

"Hello," Y/N said softly, holding her books close to her chest as she stood in front of his lab table.

Draco glanced at Blaise before looking up at the Hufflepuff girl, "Can I help you?" He asked, not bothering to hide his disinterest.

"I've been having some difficulty in this class and Professor Snape recommended that I speak to you about possibly receiving some assistance," She said.

Draco straightened in his seat at the mention of the Professor, "What's your name?" Draco questioned.

"Y/N L/N," She replied.

"Alright, Y/N, bring your supplies to the library after dinner tonight. I'll meet you there," Draco said.

She smiled, "Thank you," Y/N said quickly before making her way out of the classroom.

Draco watched her leave, the smell of her perfume lingering even after she had disappeared out the door. The scent was light and warm with notes of vanilla and citrus.

"You're tutoring Hufflepuffs now, Malfoy?" Blaise questioned with a smirk.

"Shut up," Draco snapped, gathering his supplies.

Draco and Y/N met in the twice a week and she eventually began to get the hang of some potions. She still struggled, but she was much better off than she had been.

Y/N wanted to learn and it frustrated her that she wasn't picking it up like everything else. Draco almost found it humorous, seeing such a sickly sweet person be anything other than delightfully pleasant.

As their potions class approached its final days, Draco found himself disappointed. He had grown quite fond of Y/N during their time together and he wasn't ready to see it end.

They sat in the classroom for their final tutoring session, brewing the last potion that he would assist her with. Y/N was focused on her textbook, following the directions carefully and adding each ingredient to the bubbling cauldron.

She dropped the final item into the liquid, taking a breath as she stirred the potion. A victorious smile appeared on her face as the liquid changed to the desired color, a bright and beautiful green.

"I did it," She said, looking to Draco.

He watched her with a soft smile, "It's like you don't even need me anymore," He teased.

"Of course I need you, silly. I wouldn't have known how to prepare half the ingredients otherwise," Y/N said, sitting down in the chair beside him.

"You would've figured it out. You're smarter than you give yourself credit for," Draco said.

"Thank you... That means a lot," She replied softly.

"I was wondering, since classes are almost over... Do you want to go to Hogsmeade with me after exams?" Draco asked.

"Really? You'd want to go with me?" Y/N asked.

"I would... I actually have a bit of crush on you if I'm being honest," Draco said, fidgeting with his quill.

"You do?" She asked, a smile slowly appearing on her face.

"Yeah," He stated.

"I'd love to go to Hogsmeade with you, Draco," She replied.

...

From that day forward, Y/N and Draco were inseparable. They continued to study and work on assignments together, he walked her to all of her classes and snuck over to the Hufflepuff table to sit with her during meals.

If the teachers noticed, none of them said anything. Y/N was good for Draco and her companionship had changed him.

Draco was kinder, the vicious jabs he often slung at other students had dwindled and the difference was definitely noticeable. Draco was absolutely smitten, devoting all of his extra time to Y/N.

Y/N made him happy.

Draco had never experienced real happiness in his life and it made him value what Y/N brought to his life so much more. Draco had only ever known pain, violence, disappointment and loss.

His father held him to an incredibly high standard that he had never been able to meet. Draco strived to be the greatest, but always found himself finishing in second or third place.

It made him angry and he chose to lash out at those around him. Y/N exuded warmth, kindness and love every single day, Draco found himself drawn to her like a moth to a flame.

Draco considered himself to be blessed when Y/N woke up every morning and chose to spend her time with him. He was lucky to have her by his side and he knew that.

Draco was determined to keep her existence a secret from his father for as long as possible. Draco had talked about Y/N with Narcissa and she was excited to meet the girl, but allowed Draco to decide if and when they would be introduced.

He wanted to keep this one good thing untainted, even if it was just for a little while.

Draco didn't know what he would do if his father ordered him to break up with her. He couldn't do it, not to Y/N. Maybe it was selfish of him, but he couldn't bring himself to care.

Y/N had introduced him to her parents briefly when they met at the train station at the end of their third year. They were delighted to meet him, welcoming him with opening arms after everything their daughter had told them.

Draco had never seen Y/N's cheeks go so red and he couldn't help but smile, taking her hand in his. Y/N's mother had even made him a batch of cookies, promising to send more if he enjoyed them.

Her parents were just as warm and kind as Y/N and he fell for her even harder. He felt lucky to be accepted into such a beautiful family, especially since they knew who he was. Or more importantly, who his father was.

People tended to judge him without getting to know him because of who his parents were and he didn't blame them. He hadn't done much to establish a good image for himself, but he was working on it.

Y/N made him want to work on it.

Draco was beginning to think that he had gotten away with keeping Y/N's existence a secret until the start of his fourth year. Lucius insisted on taking Draco to Diagon Alley to shop for his fourth year supplies. Draco kept his head on a swivel, hoping to spot Y/N before she saw him if she was out shopping.

He was embarrassed, but not of her, his father tended to blurt out rude comments that left an awful taste in people's mouths. Draco hoped to avoid the interaction, he didn't want Y/N to endure any of his father's abuse.

"Draco!" Y/N called, he immediately froze and his body tensed.

Y/N made her way through the crowd with her parents following closely behind her. She wrapped her arms around Draco and he quickly returned her embrace. He held her close, breathing in the scent of her perfume to steady himself before letting her go.

"How was your holiday?" Y/N asked with a smile.

"It was good. How was yours?" He questioned.

"Fantastic! I got a lot of new books that I can't wait to share with you," Y/N said.

"Hopefully you got a few on Potions because you are still just awful at that?" Draco teased.

"I did actually. I've been reading up over the break so hopefully I'll be able to teach you something this time around," Y/N replied.

"I look forward to hearing all about it," Draco smiled.

"Aren't you going to introduce us, Draco?" Lucius questioned.

Draco's smile fell, "This is my girlfriend, Y/N... Y/N, I'd like you to meet my mother and father," Draco said.

"Nice to finally meet you both, Mister and Missus Malfoy," Y/N greeted.

"You as well, dear, I've heard a lot of good things," Narcissa smiled.

"How long has this been going on?" Lucius asked.

"Since last year, father," Draco admitted.

Lucius' eyes flickered over Y/N's form before looking behind her at her parents, "You should be focusing on your studies, Draco, not gallivanting around with a Hufflepuff," He spat, scowling at the young girl.

Y/N tensed, "We actually met when Professor Snape chose your son to be my tutor in Potions. Respectfully, you can't get any higher than top of the class, Sir" Y/N said.

A tense silence settled between them before Lucius replied, "A Hufflepuff with a backbone... I suppose there's a first time for everything," He stated, walking off and into the next store.

Narcissa sighed, "It was nice to meet you, dear," She said with a smile.

"You too, Ma'am," Y/N replied.

Narcissa introduced herself to Y/N's parents before following her husband into the store.

"Darling, we're just going to head into Flourish and Blotts. You can meet us there in a bit, alright?" Her mother questioned.

"Sounds good, mum," Y/N replied with a smile.

The couple quickly disappeared into the crowd, allowing Draco and Y/N to spend a moment alone.

"I'm so sorry for my father. I knew he'd be like that and I tried to keep him away from you," Draco said, holding her hand in both of his.

"You don't have to apologize, Draco. He's your father and I would've needed to meet him sooner or later," Y/N said.

"Yeah, I guess you're right about that," He nodded.

"Your mum is really nice," Y/N said.

Draco huffed a laugh with a smile, "Yeah, she's been wanting to meet you for a long time," He said.

"How long is a long time?" Y/N asked.

"I wrote to her after our first tutoring session in the library. I really liked you," Draco admitted.

Y/N leaned forward and pressed her lips to his in a gentle kiss, his eyes drifted shut and his hands shifted to hold her hips. She pulled away and his eyes fluttered open, leaning his forehead against her's with a soft exhale.

"You're the best thing that ever happened to me," He said, lifting his hand up and tucking a strand of hair behind her ear.

"I feel the same way about you," Y/N smiled.

...

The time for the Triwizard Championship had arrived and the competitors were selected from the Goblet of Fire. Of course, by some random burst of impossibly bad luck, Harry Potter's name flew out of the goblet and into Dumbledore's hand.

Draco attended the events with Y/N by his side, the amount of risk involved with the competition made her nervous. Her nerves just meant that she held on tighter to Draco so he couldn't complain.

Draco was excited when the time came for the Yule Ball, he asked Y/N to be his date the minute it was announced and she couldn't keep the smile off her face for the rest of the day.

Draco offered to pay for her dress, but Y/N brushed him off and assured him that she already had the perfect gown.

Y/N couldn't have been more right.

Draco was absolutely awestruck when he saw her making her way down the stairs on the evening of the Ball. She was wearing a floor-length gown made of lace and silk with her hair done perfectly to match.

Y/N looked like a princess and Draco was completely speechless.

"You look absolutely stunning," He finally managed, taking her hand as she made her way down the staircase. His thumb absent-mindedly ran across her knuckles, unable to tear his eyes away from her form.

"Thank you. You look handsome," Y/N replied.

"I'm glad you think so," He smiled, looping her arm through his and resting his hand over her's on his bicep as they walked into the Great Hall.

It was a wonderful night, they danced for hours before Draco led her away from the crowd, "Is everything okay?" Y/N questioned.

"I love you," Draco stated.

Y/N smiled widely, cupping his cheeks in her hands and kissing him. Draco rested his hands on her waist, holding her close until she pulled away.

"I love you too, Draco," Y/N replied.

They spent the rest of the Ball together before the students began to disperse. Draco walked Y/N back to the Hufflepuff dormitories. Her shoes dangled from her fingers, her other hand holding onto Draco's as they walked through the castle.

Draco's bowtie was untied, hanging loosely around his neck. He glanced behind him when the voices and laughter of other students fell silent.

Draco slowed to a stop, still holding onto his girlfriend's hand, "Hold on for a second," Draco said.

Y/N stopped walking, turning to face him "Is everything alright?" She asked.

"I've been waiting to get you alone all night long," Draco said.

Y/N smiled, "And what did you have in mind now that you have me, Mister Malfoy?" She asked.

"Oh, I don't know, but I certainly won't be keeping a very respectable distance if that's alright with you," Draco said, resting his hands on her hips while backing her into the stone wall.

Y/N wrapped her arms around his neck, "I don't mind at all," She replied.

Draco leaned in, pressing his lips to her's as her hand tangled in his hair, manicured fingernails scratching gently at his scalp.

His arm slid around her waist, large palm pressing against the small of her back and pulling her body closer to himself. His thumb traced over her hip bone, grip tightening as his tongue slipped into her mouth. Y/N moaned softly into the kiss, tugging gently on his hair.

The couple pulled apart quickly as someone cleared their throat. Draco wiped her lipstick from his bottom lip with his thumb as Y/N tried to catch her breath, cheeks flushed and eyes downcast.

"Helping Miss L/N return to her dormitory are you, Mister Malfoy?" Snape questioned.

"Yes, Sir," Draco replied.

"No snogging in the hallways," Snape stated, walking off down the hallway.

Draco burst out laughing as soon as Snape was out of earshot.

Y/N smiled, swatting his chest, "That was not funny, Draco! I'm absolutely mortified," She scolded half-heartedly.

"Of all the people in the world who could have possibly caught us snogging," Draco laughed with a shake of his head. He wrapped his arm around her waist as they continued on their way to the Hufflepuff dormitories.

They arrived at the entrance to her dorm far too soon for Draco's liking. He watched her input the password before the door opened.

"I had a lot of fun tonight, Draco," Y/N said.

"I did too," He nodded.

"I love you," She smiled, leaning in and pressing a gentle kiss to his lips. His hand cupped her cheek, thumb brushing across her skin gently.

Y/N pulled away and he smiled down at her, "I love you too," He said, leaning forward and pressing a kiss to her forehead.

Y/N stepped away from him, "Sleep well, Draco," She said softly.

"You too," He replied, watching her step into her dormitory.

The door closed behind her and Draco walked back to the Slytherin dormitory with a smile on his face. He got changed, flopping back onto his bed with a happy sigh.

Draco looked over at his nightstand, there was a picture of him and Y/N. They were talking, she laughed at something he said and he just smiled at her.

It was his absolute favorite picture of them.

The picture made him think about what his life could be like, he could see a future with Y/N and he wanted it more than anything.

Draco wanted Y/N more than anything.

[severussnapemylove]

(Sev and Reader walking into the Orders headquarters during the first wizarding war, looking tired and dishevelled)

Y/N; “It’s okay everyone. Voldermort’s gone."

Dumbledore; (shocked) “What do you mean “gone”????”

Severus; “Well, we realised that he’d been so focused on the wizarding world that he’d severely underestimated the risk of muggle style attacks.”

Y/N; “So Sev shot him in the head with a muggle revolver.”

McGonagall; “You did what??? And that worked???”

Severus; “Yes, it seems that even the Dark Lord needs an intact brain to live.”

Y/N; “And to make sure he stays dead, until all his Horcruxes can be tracked down and destroyed..."

Slughorn; (turning pale) "Horcruxes????"

Y/N; "...We cut the body into little pieces, set the pieces in concrete and dropped the concrete blocks in various bodies of deep water around the world.”

(Speechless, kind of terrified looks from the rest of the room)

Y/N; “So anyway, war’s over, you’re all welcome. Sev and I are going on a very long holiday now. Seeya."

[unconventional-lawnchair]

Hehehehe okay so what if you like wrote a fic about remus lupin x reader. The reader is a teacher (preferably like astronomy) and they're sneaking around together. students are making bets and stuff to see if they'll end up together, some girls just ship them really hard.

They're trying so hard to keep it a secret but they are so bad at it.

Me @ every guy who isn't a fictional wizard from the 70s ^^

An: This fluff attempt goes out to you, rip

Rumors

Remus Lupin x Fem!Reader

cw: A lot of kisses and cursing, stapler mishandling

Masterlist

WC:4181

The halls of Hogwarts were filled with hushed whispers and mindless patter of gossip. The newest topic of the year? 

Professor {L/N}, the newest astronomy hire. An Alchemist who perfected her work through star charting. Lupin had recommended you for the post to assist Sinistra. Mostly, however, you were hired on to assist with the newest project under Dumbledore. With your studies in the North Pole, you were tasked with on and off communications with the centaur herd within the Forbidden Forest. Specifically, their astronomy masters. It was easy, given your track record with magical creatures. Creating a bridge of mutual understanding between the professors and the herd. Dumbledore also saw you valuable to both potions and alchemy class; meaning you met a lot of students very fast.

So almost everyone knew you, you ran a tight ship in class, playful and respectful to the students paired with a charming personality, no one could bring themselves to even hate you.

That's probably how the rumors began, truthfully. Who doesn't want their two favorite teachers to end up together?

Much like Lupin, the students adored you. Hermione especially, after learning of your academic achievements of the past, while being a muggleborn witch. 

Your first reaction to seeing him probably don't help. First few steps into your new place of employment and you hurry over to the only face you cared to recognize, and give him a hug and a thank you for the recommendation. 

It wasn't anything big and it wasn't anything of a spectacle, but Merlin, was Hogwarts boring. The thrill of gossip seemed to have every student in a choke hold. Some said you were both childhood friends turned lovers, some said you were married and it was a scandalous affair, most of the rumors were just students talking about how perfect you both fit together. 

Your caring, funny, and nurturing behavior, to his stern more rugged form of bonding, you were affectionately dubbed ‘mum and dad.’ 

Never to your face however, and mostly by the first and seventh years. Something about growing shame and losing it in your final days of Hogwarts, remarkable.

~~~

“I'm telling you! He looks at her like she is the very stars she teaches us about!” A seventh year sighed dreamily with her friends. She had her chin in her palms and was staring up at the front of class while a few of their classmates took the practical exam. “I wish someone would look at me like that.”

“Really! I haven't seen so much tension between two faculty before! I wouldn't be surprised to find them snogging in the halls!” One of them joked and the other girls laughed.

“Truly, but I saw Professor {L/N} wearing a wedding ring. She took it off and put it in her pocket before class started. I wonder if they are, you know~ Never have I seen Professor Lupin wear one.” She wiggled her eyebrows and the original girl spoke up with a gasp.

“Oh don't you say that! Professor Lupin and Professor {L/N} would never!” She tutted and another voice chimed in, a boy from a seat behind them, making the three turn.

“I heard that they spent Christmas at school together.” Cedric cheeked and the three girls gasped and began to murmur among themselves about it, before Lupin clapped his hands.

He found it a bit amusing, he had let them continue that far. This is what his classes have become, listening to the students muttering about him and you, seeing how close they could possibly get to the truth. Remus, at a fault, was a gossip. He learned to love the thrill of rumors from Sirius and James, but what was better than rumors about you and a colleague? Rumors about you and a colleague that were so close to the truth.

“Right now! Who's next?”

The rest of the class went smoothly, everyone finished their exams and the classroom began to file out. As Lupin got comfortable in his seat, his door peaked open.

“If you are here for tutoring, please note my hours are posted on the door, this first hour has been reserved already.” Lupin called out from his chair, head leaned back. 

“Tutoring, hm?” A song-like voice rang out from the door. He slowly smirked and leaned forward, eyes locking onto yours. You were holding a box of Merlin knows what, walking straight up to his desk with that beautiful smile. 

“Is that so unbelievable?” He teased, voice lower as he stood up and walked around his desk. Looking over your shoulder to peek into the box, seeing several random objects, including a stapler, a retractable ruler, a metal pointing stick, and other random muggle things.

“Oh, totally. I think I remember you almost lost it when Peter asked for your notes.” You teased him and he chuckled, his breath brushing against your neck. He admired the way you seemed to not flinch, but melt into his proximity. 

“Peter was a terrible student.” He mumbled and you laughed, his hand slipping around your waist and leaning down to kiss the side of your neck. You laughed harder and squirmed away. 

“Hands to yourself. Now, show me where I can hide this contraband.” You lifted the box and shook it a bit. “The things they allow in muggle schools! Hmph!” You mused and he laughed, walking you up to his office and to the far back near a storage closet. He opened the door for you and you set the box down, looking around curiously.

The room was small, but big enough for four people to stand in it comfortably. The walls were covered in shelves filled with items from all over the school years, you ran your finger along one of the shelves and let the dust collect.

“What's on your mind, hm?” Lupin mused and you turned to smirk at him.

“Just wondering where they are hiding the really bad stuff. Still in Filtch’s closet?” You hummed as he stepped into the small room with you. His eyes looked you over and you gave him a look.

“Why's that, darling?”

“Just curious, out of all the things in that closet,” You hummed as Remus wrapped his arms around your middle and pulled you against him. Your fingers dancing along his shirt collar. “Wonder how many of them were from you and that little gang of yours.” You hummed and he laughed.

Leaning down, he pressed his lips to yours. It was chaste and sweet. He loved moments like this, away from everyone, where he could love you properly. He gave a hum as you got on your toes and wrapped your arms around his shoulders, pulling him down as he pulled you closer.

~~~

“I truly don't  think they have something going on. It's maddening really! The whole school seems to see it but me!” Ron groaned as he walked down the hall with Harry and Hermione, seemingly offended at the idea that the new Astronomy teacher was dating or even had interest in Lupin.

"I wouldn't put too much stock in rumors about someone's love life, Ronald," Hermione retorted, rolling her eyes.

“Yeah, sorry Ron, but you're kind of…” Harry rolled his wrists and Ron narrowed his eyes.

“Kind of what?” 

“Kind of..” Harry trailed off.

“Kind of a complete idiot when it comes to love.” Hermione finally snapped, hugging her books to her chest. “Now, if you'll excuse me, I have to meet Professor Lupin.” She huffed and stomped off.

Ron was left standing there like an idiot, looking over at Harry. 

“What did I do?”

Harry tried to hide his smile and patted Ron's shoulder to urge him along and out of the halls.

~~~

The kiss had grown a bit heated, Remus pushed you deeper into the closet as he muttered about how badly he needed to have you in his arms. How much he loved you, how he wanted you closer, so impossibly close.

You, of course, returned the sentiment. He was made for your hands it seemed, every moment he wasn't between them made you yearn for just another hour of listless cuddles or moments like this. Sneaking away from responsibilities to show your love and devotion to one another. 

If only it could last longer-

“Professor Lupin?” Hermione's voice called out into his office. Remus cursed and you quickly stumbled back. He cleared his throat, shuffling through the confiscated objects, to find anything he could snag. 

“I'll be out in a moment!” He called back as you fixed his tie and ruffled shirt, he grabbed the first thing he spotted and stole another quick kiss from you before leaving the room.

You leaned against a shelf and watched from the crack of the door in amusement as Lupin hurried to his desk.

“Ms. Granger, I am terribly sorry, is it possible for us to reschedule?” Remus pressed and looked at what he had in his hand.

A stapler.

Why on earth did he grab a stapler?

Quickly he sat at his desk and pulled out a few assignments. Grabbing some he had already graded and began to staple them together. 

Hermione was no fool and he knew that, she stared at him in bewilderment, slowly putting her hands on her books tighter. “Uhm, Professor? Isn't that the stapler Professor {L/N} confiscated from Creevey?” 

Lupin began to staple things a bit quicker, waving her off. 

“Yes, Ms. Granger, I think it would be, but I did borrow it from the confiscated,” He weaned on, collected and poised, a bit too good at putting up a face. Everytime you two have almost been caught, he's shown this side. 

“Why would you possibly need a stapler?” He asked in disbelief.

“To.. staple?” He lifted his eyebrow at her. “I do appreciate your curiosity, but I assure you this is none of your concern.” He spoke idley, having opened the stapler and pressed the top down against the pages and his table. Hermione seemed appalled at the misuse. 

“Now, if you'll please allow me to pick another time-” Before he could finish his statement, he attempted to raise his hand, only for his wrist to be locked in place. He looked down, just to see he had stapled his own sleeve to the desk under a few pages of paper. 

You had to cover your mouth and so did Hermione.

“Uhm, on second thought, sir, I think I'll spend my study hour in the library.” She slowly smirked, turning to briskly walk away.

Remus slowly sunk his face into his hands, the second his classroom door was closed he waved his hand to shut his office door. Only for the room to be filled with your laughter.

You walked out of the room, holding your sides as Lupin lost his front and stared at you with flushed cheeks.

“Not a word-”

“No! No please!” You wheezed out. “Several! Several words must be had!” You doubled over his desk, struggling to get the staple from his sleeves, when you finally managed, you were throwing your head back absolutely lost in boisterous laughter.

Remus wasn't even mad. How could he be? You looked so damn happy. So giddy with joy at the embarrassing show he put on. Quickly, he stood, walking around his desk with a purpose and grabbed your cheeks. You were still struggling to catch your breath as he playfully scoffed at you.

“Not very polite, Professor {L/N}.” He taunted and you grabbed his biceps and clung to him to try and clam down. It didn't help when he leaned down and began to pepper kisses all over your hot face. 

“Mercy!” You wheezed and he shook his head.

“What happened to all those words, Professor?” He teased and you shook your head, giggling as he absolutely mawled you with his lips.

~~~

The Grandhall was lively with the buzz of Sirius Black’s attacks. Managing to get into the Gryffindors’ common room was a feat that bewildered everyone.

However, what everyone was truly talking about was how he broke into the astronomy tower and Professor {L/N}’s office. It had managed to get out that Sirius Black himself left you a note that Dumbledore promptly confiscated. More accurately, the conversation was about how unbothered you were about the news.

That, and how a certain professor reacted to that news. 

He had gone down to the commons with McGonagall to check on Harry and the other students. Only when Flitwick came up in a rush and announced the break in and how you were nowhere to be found, the students watched in horror and shock as Lupin pulled his wand and ran from the towers at a speed they couldn't determine was truly human.

He found you soon after, running down the hall towards the Gryffindor tower, also looking for Harry. He stopped and pulled you into a tight hold no one could see. You were confused at first, but you eventually melted into him. You two were spied on by none other than Colin Creevey, who snapped a photo and was showing it around the lunch table. 

“See! I knew it! What a romantic! Ran straight to her in the face of danger?” One of the seventh years swooned and Ron scoffed.

“I don't get it, it's just two people hugging.” He mumbled and began to poke at his food, the twins giving each other a look before they rushed to tease Ron.

“Two people hugging,” Fred started.

“Hands below the waist!” George chimed in, holding up the photo as if to emphasize his point, gesturing to where Lupin's hands were holding you so tight your heels were slightly off the ground.

“Oh, how scandalous.” Fred concurred and Ron rolled his eyes.

“I hug Hermione, does that make us secretly married?” Ron pushed and Hermione quickly looked down at her book in a slight flush. 

“You wish.” George snickered and Fred clapped his hand on Ron's back, making him cough on his potatoes.

“Really, Ronald dearest, you wouldn't know the difference. You hardly know how to hold a girl now.” He teased and George nodded along.

“You'll get there one day, brother. For now you'll have to trust us.”

“This,” They both pointed this time.

“Is not a normal hug.” Both of them spoke at the same time.

Angelica finally spoke up. “Given the context, that man is whipped. Even if nothing is happening now, he is so in love it's humbling.” She got up and gathered her Quidditch gear.

“Come on boys.”

“Right behind you.” Fred purred and earned himself a look from her over her shoulder, George laughed as the three of them hurried off. Leaving the photo for Ginny to pick up.

“Oh yeah, there is absolutely no platonic explanation for this.” She hummed and tossed it to the center of the table, Neville shrugged, no wanting to contribute. 

“I think that whatever is happening between those two, it's clear they care about each other.” Hermione hummed and Harry finally agreed. Suddenly, he looked at his friends with a look of absolute mischief.

“Do you know how we can find out?” He mused and Hermione gave a groan and Ron shot up in his seat.

“How?”

Harry smirked and pulled out the map the twins had gifted him, showing it off to his friends with a cocky smirk. You had caught him with it days ago, and simply zipped your lips and walked away.

“If they are meeting anywhere, it's likely the astronomy tower.”

~~~

Now.. the plan didn't go exactly as planned.

“And I simply can not comprehend how all three of you continue to be the only Gryffindors I've had to reprimand this year!” Lupin’s voice filled the otherwise silent and empty Defense Against The Dark Arts classroom. Unfortunately for the trio, who were out far past curfew, Lupin just so happened to be on his way to the Astronomy tower when he spotted them seemingly just on time for his arrival.

“What about my brothers?” Ron muttered before Hermione shot him a look, elbow jabbing his side.

“Ronald.” She hissed.

The entirety of Hogwarts Valley had been buzzing with the news of Sirius Black’s newest escapade into the castle and Lupin could not comprehend why the three thought it was a good idea to do everything but what they were told. 

“Safety comes first and for me to find you lot outside of your dorms with a murder on the loose? With this bloody-” Lupin began to lift the map before his eyes snapped up at the sound of his door opening. He quickly shut his mouth when he saw you peak into the dark space.

“Remus?” You called out, before you paused and stared at the four infront of you. Your mind firing off a million excuses in quick succession. “Oh, I was unaware you had company.”

Lupin sighed and rubbed his face, seeming to untangle himself from the thralls of his anger. It wasn't uncommon for you two to find eachother late at night like this, but was certainly not the greatest idea of his yet- reprimanding the trio when he knew you'd be coming. As you always did when he didn't meet you at the Astronomy tower as promised. His favorite part of the end of a stressful day was a night full of whispers, stories and playful remarks. Reminiscing on your school years while recreating some memories long forgotten after the war. This time, not in his dorm, but his office or your room. “It's quite alright. I can still review your lesson plans.”

He was a terrifyingly good liar. That should not be attractive.

“Right. I will be in your office, Lupin.” You remarked and began to walk past the group of three who looked at you like you might save them. Sorry kiddos- he was grumpy enough as it was. 

You gave them a grimace, glancing at the map before quickly looking away with wide eyes and hurrying over to the office. Lupin caught the look and held up his hand. “Stop.”

You squeezed your eyes shut and slowly turned to face him. Giving him your adorable nervous look that you knew didn't work on him- well, you tried.

He made a come hither motion and you walked over, ready to be lectured like the kids beside you. He held up the map and you gave a nervous smile. 

“What? However, did you find this, Harry? This is supposed to be in Flinch’s office!” You gave the worst and most unbelievable fake disappointed tone, hands on your hips and frowning down at the three. You struggled not to smile as Harry gave a small one, before laughing a bit. Hermione covered her face in a mix of fluster and secondhand embarrassment. Ron was grinning ear to ear. 

“{L/N}...” Lupin warned and you huffed.

“You got me in trouble with the big boss here, Harry.” You teased and he finally cracked his lips into a brighter smile. You looked back at Remus and slowly interlocked your fingers in front of your lips, as if it did anything to hide your face. “In my defense-”

“You three are dismissed.” He mused quickly and slammed the paper on the table beside him. You tried your best to hide your smile. It was hard to take him seriously when you have seen him panic and staple his sleeve to a desk. The trio hurried to shuffle out, Harry sent you a greatful look and you simply winked at him. Something Remus rolled his eyes at.

“Did you see Harry with the map?” He asked in a stern tone when the kids left. You looked away and tried to look a little regretful. 

“It's very possible.” 

“And you didn't think to take it?” He asked in an incredulous tone.

“I mean, it certainly crossed my mind.” You slowly stopped hiding your smile and looked back to the taller man who was taking a few steps into your space.

“And you didn't?” He pushed.

“Well, in all fairness, Rem. It is technically his.” You snarked back finally and Remus gave a bitter laugh. 

“Professor {L/N}, did you think that maybe if this map fell into the wrong hands it could cause a serious danger to Harry?” He pushed and you clicked your tongue. You knew who he was talking about. A conversation you've had a million times, well, more an argument. It got worse when he heard of the note.

He was so willing to believe Sirius Black to be a killer, while you believed Sirius could bring himself to the point of ending someone's life, James Potter was more than a human to him. Even with his plea of guilty, you couldn't believe it. James, Lily, and Harry? You would stake your life on it. He was innocent.

It was what you were looking for, an explanation, hopefully that was what the note was for. But unlike your communications with the magical creatures of the forest, Dumbledore was not so willing to give up information when he had it. The old prick-

“I hate when we talk about this.” You huffed in honesty and leaned back on one of the desks of the room. He sighed through his nose and pinched the bridge that connected it to his forehead. “Honey-”

“Ah ah ah! Honey is for marriage.” You mused and he did his best to fight the smile growing on his face. Easily letting you steer the conversation from his own negative thoughts, he hated being upset around you. “That so?”

“It's very so. More so than most so’s.” You hummed and he blinked a few times at you before he couldn't help but smirk. 

“Give me my mother's ring back then.” He mused and held out his hand. You have a faux gasp. 

“Excuse you, sir. I seem to remember your mother telling you this belonged to me.” 

“When we were 18!” He challenged, letting himself fall victim to your antics. Like school children. “And last I checked, your reaction was less then pleasant.”

“We had been dating for a year and I was going to the North Pole in my defense, tart boy.” You scoffed and cringed at the memory. How you practically fall out of your chair when Hope made a comment about her ring. 

“Tart boy?”

“Tart boy.”

“I'll show you a tart boy.” He scoffed and took your cheeks. You giggled like a goofball, grabbing his lapels and trying to pull him closer. He smirked at you and kept his distance.

“Remus-” You huffed and glared at him a bit. His smirk only grew as he reached into your pocket, pulling out the modest gem. You rolled your eyes fondly and held out your hand for him, he slipped the ring back in its rightful place.

“Sorry, call me old fashioned. But I'd like to kiss my fiancé, not my coworker.” He teased and you couldn't help but laugh. 

“You absolute sap.”

“Hard not to be.” He mumbled and leaned in, finally kissing you. Both your eyelids lowered but he held eye contact. So much affection bumbling in your chests, it was too much to look away. Eventually, you gave into your shyness, closing your eyes. He slowly pushed your knees apart and slipped between them, making your face grow hot.

He pulled away at this and you huffed, he smirked at you when you looked back up at him. “Hey, sir, your lips on mine again. It's a marital duty and all that jazz.”

“Thought we had to be married for marital privileges, honey?” 

“Oh don't use anything I say around you against me, I can hardly think.”

He bellowed out a laugh at your mischievous look up at him. Slowly biting your lip as you struggled to keep your confident act up.

“Whatever will I do with you, {L/N}?”

“Well, I have a few ideas.” You hummed and began to fiddle with his tie. He curled an eyebrow and you looked forward, looking up at his hazel eyes with a playful pout. “Kiss me again. I promise, you keep my lips occupied, no more bad behavior.”

“Because you won't be able to talk?” 

“Precisely.”

“What in the world!?” You suddenly heard from the far corner of the room. Your face filled with shock and snapped over to see an empty corner, you could of sworn you heard Ronald just a moment ago.

 Remus quickly moved from between your legs and waved his wand, yanking off the invisibility cloak to reveal an appalled Ron, a delighted Harry, and a flustered Hermione.

“Bloody hell!” Remus boomed and you covered your mouth and looked away. Doing your best not to laugh.

“Yes, mum and dad do kiss when the kids are away.” You cheeked and Remus looked at you like you had just made some grand offense to his ears.

Hermione giggled and Harry’s smile grew ten fold.

Ron, however, seemed very displeased.

“I owe the twins so much money.”

[monserelates]

rip James Potter you would’ve hated finding out your grandchild’s name is Albus Severus Potter

[theladyofmanyfandomsfanfiction]

Loose In Hogwarts

Characters: Reader, Newt, Niffler, Dumbledore (all platonic)

Warnings: Absolutely none!

Summary: Newt gave you one task - keep an eye on the magical briefcase. And so you did… until the Niffler staged an escape!

A/n: Posting this one early. We could all use a comfort fic today.

~~~

Did you mess up? Yes.

Was it your fault? Well, not entirely.

Nifflers are known to be quite tricky creatures and you had a plan to keep the blue-coated animal in your sights. Newt had expressly advised as much when he left his case of fantastic beasts in your hands.

What you hadn’t expected was a secret deal between the niffler and Newt’s favourite bowtruckle, Pickett.

One distraction was enough for the situation to spiral and now, there was a little thief scurrying about Hogwarts with his companion. You enlisted the help of Newt’s demiguise but when Dougall blended into the air and wandered away, you were on your own to fix the problem.

You passed dozens of students as you crossed the Entrance Courtyard. Thankfully, a few kind smiles and waves were enough to swerve by them without suspicion. You walked through the large doors and past the Great Hall, then up some short steps to the Grand Staircase.

Pausing at its base, a flicker of blue caught your eye atop a moving set of stairs but when you focused, you realised that it was only a blue ring that was being showcased by a Ravenclaw to his friends. A family heirloom, no doubt.

Then another brief blur of blue sparked your attention. It came from the corner of a portrait door as it closed. There was no fuss from the students who had been walking through the passageway but they hadn’t been looking at the ground. And the niffler knew how to sneak around in large crowds.

Following a hunch, you head in the direction of the portrait. A brief glance at the watch on your wrist told you that Newt was still busy in the outer school grounds for another half hour. Usually you wished him luck on his ventures but if the fwoopers chose to give him some grief while he collected their feathers, it wouldn’t be too upsetting right now.

Entering the portrait passageway, you followed the corridor with a keen interest in any trace of a nifflers mark. That’s when you saw a gold galleon on the stone floor that veered off into another corridor - one that you were quite familiar with. A single coin could have been a coincidence but when you came by a second piece of gold, you knew that you were on the right track.

At the end was another portrait who had grown to be friend during your years as a student.

Walking up to the silver frame, you expected to see a wise old wizard reading to his goat while watering his Flitterbloom. But the old man wasn’t there. In his place stood Sir Cadogan, sword brandished and pointing at the plant with suspicion.

“What kind of madman keeps such a deadly thing?” He grumbled.

You couldn’t help but laugh a little at his misinformation and coughed to announce your presence. The painted knight glanced and then held a hand out in your direction so that you would stop from nearing.

“Halt, brave one. I dare not let you endanger yourself while this beast is here.”

Stepping forward slowly, you tried to help the well-meaning portrait.

“Fear not, brave knight.” Sir Cadogan responded better with flattery. “That’s Flitterbloom, a twin in looks to Devil’s Snare but completely harmless. In fact, it’s docile enough to just be an indoor plant so there is no danger.” You said.

Sir Cadogan took in the information and then lowered his sword with a haughty laugh. “Good thing that I was here then.”

You passed off the silliness and then addressed him properly. “I’m in need to use this passageway, there is a niffler on the loose and-“

“What where?!” Sir Cadogan looked around frantically, sword in session again.

“In the castle,” you corrected and the knight calmed once more. “And I think he may have come this way while you were…” Fighting with an overgrown pot plant, you thought. “…busy.”

The portrait knight sheathed his sword and gave you a deep bow. “As you have helped me, it would be my honour to repay this favour.”

The frame swung forward gently and granted you entry. Stepping through, you found yourself in the corridor to one of your favourite school lessons. But before you could properly reminisce, sitting before a closed classroom door was your culprit calmly stuffing his pouch with a glittering necklace.

Got you.

But it seemed the niffler had heard your feet against the maroon carpet. He stood up in alarm and then made a frantic dash underneath the classroom door, his little body squeezing through until his feet vanished on the other side.

“Absolutely not.” You declared and burst through the doors after him.

Professor Dumbledore was standing at the front of the empty room and setting out various parchments for a lesson.

If he was startled, he didn’t show it. He simply continued his work while he spoke.

“You’re lucky I wasn’t teaching.”

It was true. You hadn’t thought about what would have happened if students saw you barge in like mad-witch escaped from Azkaban.

Humming back, you searched around the room for your thief while Dumbledore was still busy.

“I was thinking of inviting Aberforth for dinner tomorrow night.” He said, opening a drawer and retrieving a few ink pots.

You heard him but with an occupied mind all you managed back was a blunt, “He hates you.”

Dumbledore merely sighed. He closed the drawer and nodded. “He does. But he adores you which is why he’ll agree. Maybe we could bake him some pumpkin pie to sweeten the deal?”

“Filled with lovely gold.” You said softly in your sweetest voice.

Dumbledore was puzzled at the suggestion and finally turned. “Gold? Why-“

Crash!

It was all so fast but he saw you launch into a stack of books, sending bound covers all over the floor. He would have reprimanded you had the sight not been so comedic.

Dumbledore crossed his arms, a small laugh tugging at his mouth as he watched you recover and then leap over and under desks after something that was much faster.

“Is something wrong?” He wondered curiously.

“Wrong?” You huffed and stood up abruptly. Hair slightly dishevelled, you combed your fingers through it to set it in place while your eyes darted around for any glimmer of gold or a blur of blue. “Nothing’s wrong. Does it seem like it’s wrong? Why would you ask that?”

Dumbledore cleared his throat to stop himself from laughing outright at your attempt to lie. “No reason. You just seem a little distracted is all.” He said.

You sulked a little and grumbled. “Distractions got me into this mess.”

“And what mess is this?” Dumbledore asked innocently.

Catching yourself, you changed topic quickly. “Nothing of import. Do you really think that pumpkin pie will lure your brother into having a family dinner? Shouldn’t you talk to him like a normal person?”

Dumbledore leaned against the desk with a smirk. “Have you considered not diving headfirst into ancient texts that I carefully organised?”

You winced and looked at the mess in the corner. Oops.

You had no excuse for that incident but you could have sworn there was blue tail peeking out. Although the mess was preferable to the one Dumbledore was trying to start with his brother.

Who uses pie to ensnare themselves an invitation to dinner? He may as well - wait.

Ensnare… to trap.

Quite suddenly, an idea popped and you snapped your fingers at the wizard, eyes-wide with a plan sewing itself together.

“That’s it!” You exclaimed. Rushing over, you gave him a tight hug that almost toppled him over had he not hugged back. “You’re the best.”

This time Dumbledore laughed in kind, simply happy to be of assistance. Releasing him, you made a heading for the door. Reaching out an arm over a vacant desk, you gestured with your head. “Let’s go. I have an idea.”

In a small shimmer, a demiguise made itself visible for a few moments. It reached for the arm and climbed until it was comfortably perched atop your shoulder. With a small glance around the room, it looked at the professor before returning to full invisibility as you walked out.

Dumbledore watched the door close and pulled out a small candy from his pocket. He unwrapped it and placed the treat in his mouth. He then passed the golden wrapper into the waiting hands of the runaway niffler who had climbed atop the desk and taken to hiding behind the man.

~ Masterlist here ~

[aphoticarachne]

What is this feeling?

Tom Riddle x Reader

>> next chapter

Wherein you and Tom Riddle seem to loathe each other . . or do you?

a/n: I watched Wicked a few weeks ago and the song “What is this Feeling?” has been ringing in my mind so here we are.

Everyone who roamed the shadowed corridors of Hogwarts knew of the quiet war that lingered between you and Tom.

It was not something declared aloud, but rather something that settled in the air, cold and thin, like winter mist curling through the cracks of stone. You never quite understood why, but there it was — every word you spoke, every step you took, seemed to sharpen the edges of his gaze. It began subtly. A stray remark from the faculty during first year, their praise falling at your feet like scattered petals. You hadn’t thought much of it. But Tom had. Tom always noticed.

And then, of course, there was your magnetism. You drew attention without meaning to — a pureblood with a mind quick enough to match his, and a beauty that moved through rooms like a breath of wind. Naturally, people admired you. Naturally, he despised it.

There was no mild disdain in Tom Riddle. Only unadulterated loathing.

You learned not to flinch beneath the weight of it. His cold eyes followed you as if hexing you from afar was a temptation barely restrained. And perhaps, in some quiet part of you, you welcomed it. Rivalry, even unspoken, was still a kind of recognition. Over time, you had begun to play along, careful and deliberate, weaving your way into his path just to see the flicker of irritation cross his face.

In the end, you were as much to blame for it as he was.

So when Horace Slughorn, your Potions Professor, announced in seventh year that you’d be partnering with Tom, you nearly lost your composure.

It was absurd, really — the sudden heat in your chest, the tightening of your grip on the desk. Across the room, Tom’s gaze flicked toward you, impassive but sharp, as if Slughorn’s words had only confirmed something he already suspected.

The room felt smaller.

“Professor!” You called, carefully schooling your expression as Slughorn announced the partners for brewing Draught of the Living Death. He turned to you, his ever-present smile stretched wide, brimming with that thoughtless cheer he seemed to carry everywhere.

“Yes, dear girl?”

“Might I partner with someone else? Or perhaps work alone?” Your voice was light, polite, though the faint smile you forced felt stiff. Across the room, Tom’s gaze settled on you — disinterested, yet razor-sharp beneath the surface.

Mindless imbecile, you thought.

Slughorn’s brow furrowed, his jovial demeanor dimming by a flicker. “You’ve no issue with Mr. Riddle, I presume? No, I see no reason why two of my brightest students shouldn’t work together!” He clapped his hands, already drifting toward another group, humming contentedly.

A quiet, defeated sigh slipped past your lips. Was Slughorn truly so oblivious, so incurably naïve, to think this pairing was anything but disastrous?

You told yourself it was fine. You would endure it, as you always did. But there was a quiet undercurrent to it now, something that twisted beneath the surface like a serpent curling around bone.

As soon as class ended, you slipped through the door, your steps quick and deliberate. The weight of the room lifted the moment you crossed the threshold, and you exhaled quietly, eager to disappear into the steady flow of students crowding the corridor. The last thing you wanted was to linger, not with him still there, his gaze undoubtedly following you as it often did.

But just as you merged into the throng of robes and chatter—

Tom had called out your last name, like he always did whenever he felt the need to address you.

His voice rang clear, smooth and precise, cutting through the noise with unsettling ease. You didn’t stop. Didn’t turn. It wasn’t the first time he had tried to catch your attention, and by now you’d learned to brush past it, to pretend not to hear.

The students around you shifted, moving like water around stone, and you were ready to lose yourself among them—

Until his hand caught your wrist. Firm, but not careless.

A startled breath caught in your throat as Tom pulled you aside, his grip steady as he steered you into a narrow corridor. The sudden absence of noise made the air feel heavier, too still.

You tore your arm from his grasp, distaste flickering sharp in your eyes as you stepped back, creating distance between you.

“What do you want, Riddle?” Your tone was cold, sharpened by irritation you no longer cared to hide.

Tom straightened, folding his arms across his chest as he regarded you with that same calculating look he always wore, the one that felt more like an assessment than anything else.

“Do you make a habit of ignoring everyone, or just the ones you despise?” he asked, his head tilting slightly. His voice was infuriatingly calm.

“I didn’t hear you,” you replied curtly, though the lie felt thin even to your own ears.

He hummed softly, the sound light but edged. “Lying is beneath you.”

You held his gaze, the quiet tension settling between you like fog. “Was there a reason you stopped me, or do you simply enjoy cornering students in secluded places?”

Tom’s eyes narrowed faintly, though his expression remained unreadable. “Starting next week, we meet after class. Every day. We work on the potion until it’s flawless.”

There was no invitation in his tone—only fact, as if the decision had already been made long before this conversation.

“I’ve already arranged for the use of Slughorn’s classroom. Go there when classes end.”

His eyes lingered on yours for a moment longer, cold and unwavering.

“Do you understand?”

"And what if I'm busy next week? Have you no consideration?" you shot back, arms crossing as you met his gaze without flinching. The truth was, your schedule was perfectly clear — not a single obligation to be found. But that wasn’t the point. Who was he to dictate your time as if it belonged to him?

Tom’s expression didn’t shift, not even slightly. If anything, the corner of his mouth twitched, not quite a smile, but something colder.

"And who, exactly, would be foolish enough to keep your company?" His voice was soft, almost thoughtful, but the insult laced beneath it struck hard enough.

Your eyes narrowed.

"4 PM," he continued, brushing past your challenge with practiced ease. "I expect you there. On time. Or I’ll brew the potion myself — and I’ll make sure Slughorn knows you contributed nothing."

The weight of his words hung in the air, heavy and unmoving. His gaze lingered, deliberate as if daring you to test him further. But before you could summon a retort, he turned sharply on his heel and strode down the corridor, his robes trailing behind him like shadows curling at his feet.

You stayed rooted in place, watching as he disappeared around the corner.

Infuriating. Absolutely infuriating.

Deena speaks .ᐟ

English isn't my first language so I apologize if I'd made any mistakes, if so, please correct me.

I plan on making this a short fic, mayhaps 5+ chapters? Please give me opinions on how I should end this story! + I'm also sorry if it sucks, this is my first time writing!

[ms-snape]

Severus snape x reader. She just find ou that she’s pregnant? And didn’t know how to say it to Severus.

Title: New Hope

Warning: none... exept stressed reader I guess...

Words Count: 2000+

Masterlist

---

Y/N Snape had never imagined that standing amidst the lush greenhouses of Hogwarts, surrounded by the vibrant life of magical plants, she would feel so utterly lifeless herself. For weeks now, she had felt a gnawing sense of fatigue, the kind that no amount of rest could cure. Her usually nimble fingers, once adept at trimming and caring for the delicate blooms and exotic roots, felt heavy, sluggish. Nausea had become a familiar visitor, creeping up on her with increasing frequency.

At first, she dismissed it as overwork, perhaps an accidental inhalation of some stray pollen or spore. But when the dizziness grew so severe that she had to excuse herself from her third-year class, Y/N knew it was time to seek Madam Pomfrey’s guidance. She wasn’t one to visit the hospital wing lightly, but something was clearly wrong.

Now, sitting on the edge of a bed in the pristine, sterile room, she anxiously awaited Madam Pomfrey’s return. The soft hum of the enchanted ceiling above, designed to soothe patients with a gentle twilight glow, did little to calm the storm of thoughts swirling in her mind. Severus was busy in his dungeons, likely unaware that she had even left the greenhouse, and Y/N couldn't shake the nagging sense of dread building in her chest.

When Madam Pomfrey finally entered, her expression unreadable, Y/N felt her breath catch in her throat.

“Well, Professor Snape,” Madam Pomfrey began, her tone gentle but professional, “I’ve reviewed the results of the tests I performed.”

Y/N leaned forward slightly, her hands clenching in her lap. “Is it… is it serious?”

Pomfrey’s lips twitched into a small smile. “Not in the way you might think.” She paused for a moment, as if weighing her words carefully before continuing. “You’re pregnant, Y/N.”

For a heartbeat, Y/N didn’t react. The word hung in the air like a foreign concept, something distant and impossible. Pregnant? She blinked, confusion clouding her thoughts. Her mind raced through the possibilities, the implications.

“You’re sure?” she finally managed to ask, her voice barely above a whisper.

Pomfrey nodded, her eyes warm with understanding. “Quite sure. Based on the symptoms you’ve described and the tests I ran, I’d estimate you’re about ten weeks along.”

Y/N felt the world tilt around her, as if the ground had shifted beneath her feet. Pregnant. She placed a trembling hand over her abdomen, where a tiny life was beginning to grow. This was real. This was happening.

“I… I didn’t expect this,” she murmured, more to herself than to Pomfrey. “I didn’t even think… Severus and I… we never talked about having children...”

The weight of those words settled heavily in her chest. Severus. How would she tell him? They had been married for nearly two years now, and though their bond was strong, they had never once discussed starting a family. In fact, she vividly recalled Severus’s past comments about children—his distaste for their unpredictability, his general discomfort around them. He had always preferred the solitude of his potions lab, the quiet precision of his work. A child would shatter that carefully constructed world.

Would he even want this? Would he be angry? Disappointed?

“I don’t know how to tell him,” Y/N whispered, her voice trembling. “What if… what if he doesn’t want this baby?”

Pomfrey’s gaze softened with sympathy. “Y/N, I can’t speak for Severus, but I do know that he loves you deeply. Whatever his feelings about children may have been in the past, this is different. This is your child. His child.”

Y/N nodded, but the anxiety still twisted tightly in her chest. She thanked Pomfrey quietly before slipping out of the hospital wing, her mind spinning with the weight of the news she now carried.

The following days passed in a blur. Y/N moved through her classes on autopilot, her mind always half-distracted, her heart heavy with the secret she held. Each evening, she would sit with Severus in their private quarters, sharing quiet meals, but the words she so desperately needed to say remained lodged in her throat. She couldn’t find the courage to tell him, not yet.

It was during one of these particularly restless days that Minerva McGonagall caught her lingering outside the Great Hall, her eyes distant as students bustled past her. Y/N had been so lost in her thoughts that she hadn’t noticed the Transfiguration professor approaching until Minerva’s voice broke through the haze.

“Y/N, dear, you look a bit peaky. Is everything all right?”

Y/N blinked and forced a smile, though she could tell by the narrowing of Minerva’s eyes that it wasn’t convincing. “I’m fine, really. Just… tired.”

Minerva’s lips pressed into a thin line, her sharp gaze piercing through Y/N’s weak facade. “You’ve been looking more than tired lately. I’ve seen you lost in thought during meals, and you’ve barely spoken to anyone. What’s going on?”

Y/N hesitated, her hand instinctively moving to her stomach. She trusted Minerva, perhaps more than anyone at Hogwarts aside from Severus. But saying the words aloud—admitting the truth—felt too terrifying.

Minerva, however, was not one to let things lie. She stepped closer, her voice softening. “Y/N, I’ve known you for many years as one of my student then as a colleague and friend. I can see that something is troubling you. You can tell me. Whatever it is, I’m here.”

Tears pricked at Y/N’s eyes before she could stop them. She hadn’t realized just how much she had been holding back, how much the weight of this secret had been wearing on her.

“I… I’m pregnant, Minerva,” she whispered, her voice breaking.

Minerva’s sharp intake of breath was immediate, her eyes widening in surprise. “Pregnant?” she repeated, her voice filled with astonishment. “That’s… well, that’s wonderful news, my dear!”

Y/N shook her head, wiping at her eyes with trembling hands. “I don’t know if it is. Severus… he doesn’t like children. We’ve never talked about having them. I’m terrified that he won’t want this baby.”

Minerva’s expression softened with understanding as she gently placed a hand on Y/N’s shoulder. “Oh, Y/N,” she said quietly. “I can understand why you’re afraid. But Severus loves you. And love has a way of changing even the most stubborn of minds.”

Y/N sniffled, but the knot of fear in her chest remained tight. “What if he doesn’t want it, Minerva? What if he resents me for this?”

Minerva squeezed her shoulder reassuringly. “Give him a chance. He may surprise you. You’ve brought so much light into his life already, Y/N, you've chnager him in so many ways. A child… it could be a new kind of hope for him.”

Though her words were kind, Y/N still couldn’t shake the lingering fear. She thanked Minerva for her support, but as the days passed, her anxiety only seemed to grow.

It was three days later when Y/N was summoned to Albus Dumbledore’s office. She had been sitting in the greenhouse, mindlessly trimming the leaves of a Flutterby Bush, when a house-elf appeared with a note requesting her presence. Her heart sank immediately. Had Dumbledore somehow found out? Did he know?Did Minerva told him?

When she entered the Headmaster’s office, the usual warm glow of the room seemed more oppressive than welcoming. Fawkes let out a soft trill from his perch, but Dumbledore himself was quiet, watching her with those piercing blue eyes from behind his desk.

“Y/N, please sit,” he said, his voice kind yet commanding.

She obeyed, her hands trembling slightly as she folded them in her lap. Dumbledore watched her for a moment, the silence stretching on before he finally spoke.

“There is something weighing heavily on your mind, my dear,” he said softly. “I have seen it in your eyes these past few days. Would you care to share what troubles you?”

Y/N bit her lip, her eyes fixed on the floor. She didn’t know how to explain the storm of emotions inside her. But this was Albus Dumbledore—he had a way of knowing, even when she didn’t want to say anything at all.

“I’m pregnant,” she whispered, the confession falling from her lips like a weight she could no longer carry alone.

Dumbledore’s eyebrows lifted slightly, but his expression remained calm, thoughtful. “I see,” he said gently. “And this news troubles you.”

She nodded, unable to meet his eyes. “We all know that Severus doesn’t like children.Plus we’ve never talked about having them. I’m afraid… I’m afraid he won’t want this.”

Dumbledore leaned forward, his hands clasped together atop his desk. “Severus Snape is a man of many complexities, Y/N. But if there is one thing I know about him, it is that he values you above all else. This child may be unexpected, but love has a way of blossoming even in the most unlikely of places.”

Y/N’s throat tightened, her fears still gnawing at her heart. “What if he doesn’t want to be a father? What if this ruins everything between us, everything we've built during those last two years?”

Dumbledore’s eyes twinkled with that familiar warmth as he spoke, his voice filled with the wisdom of someone who had seen more than most. “Severus has spent much of his life building walls around his heart, but you, my dear, have already found a way through those walls. This child will not tear you apart—it will bring you closer.”

Tears welled in Y/N’s eyes once again, and this time, she didn’t try to stop them. “I don’t know how to tell him,” she admitted, her voice thick with emotion.

Dumbledore rose from his seat and crossed the room to stand beside her, resting a hand on her shoulder. “Tell him the truth. Trust in the love you share. And remember, Y/N, that life is not a series of planned events, but rather a garden full of unexpected blooms. This child is a gift—a new beginning.”

That night, Y/N finally found the courage to tell Severus.

They were sitting by the fire in their quarters, the soft crackling of the flames filling the space between them. Severus was reading, his sharp eyes focused on the text before him, but Y/N could barely concentrate on the warmth of the room. Her heart pounded in her chest, her hands clammy with nerves.

“Severus” she began, her voice trembling slightly. He looked up from his book, his dark eyes immediately locking onto hers with concern.

“What is it love?” he asked, setting the book aside.

Y/N took a deep breath, trying to steady herself. “I… I have something to tell you.”

Severus’s brow furrowed, and for a moment, she saw a flicker of fear in his eyes. “Are you unwell?” he asked, his voice laced with worry.

She shook her head quickly. “No, it’s not that. It’s just…gosh this so hard to say.... I’m pregnant.”

For a moment, the words hung in the air between them, heavy and uncertain. Severus stared at her, his expression unreadable, and Y/N’s heart clenched painfully in her chest. She had expected him to say something, to react, but he was silent, his gaze fixed on her as if he were processing the information.

Then, slowly, Severus rose from his seat and crossed the room to her, kneeling down in front of her so that they were eye-level. His hands, usually so precise and controlled, were trembling slightly as he reached out to cup her face.

“Y/N,” he whispered, his voice thick with emotion. “You’re pregnant?”

She nodded, tears welling in her eyes as she searched his face for any sign of rejection, any hint that he didn’t want this.

But instead, she saw something she hadn’t expected—joy.

Severus’s lips twitched into the smallest of smiles, his dark eyes softening as he looked at her. “You're carying....A child,” he murmured, almost in disbelief. “Our child.”

Y/N let out a choked sob, relief flooding her as she leaned into his touch.”I'm so sorry I didn't tell you sonner, I was so afraid you wouldn’t want this,” she confessed, her voice shaking. “I know you don’t like children, and I didn’t know how you’d feel about—”

Severus silenced her with a soft kiss, his hands cradling her face as if she were the most precious thing in the world. When he pulled back, his gaze was intense, filled with a depth of emotion that took her breath away.

“I don't like children who aren't when they are insufferable eleven years old students...I never thought I could have something like this,” he said quietly. “A family. With you.”

Y/N smiled through her tears, her heart swelling with love for the man who had once seemed so distant, so unreachable. “Are you… are you happy about this?” she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

Severus’s smile widened, and for the first time, she saw a glimmer of hope in his eyes—a hope she had never thought possible.

“I’m more than happy,” he whispered, pressing a soft kiss to her forehead. “I’m honored, I'm proud. I can’t wait to meet our child.”

Tears streamed down Y/N’s face as she wrapped her arms around him, holding him close as the fire crackled softly in the background. She had been so afraid, so certain that this news would drive a wedge between them, but instead, it had brought them closer than ever before.

In that moment, as Severus held her in his arms, Y/N knew that everything would be all right. They would face this new chapter of their lives together, hand in hand, ready to nurture the life growing between them.

[snowyslytherinowl]

Locked in the Staffroom

PAIRING: Severus Snape x (Professor) Reader

SUMMARY: Professors Dumbledore and McGonagall know that Severus Snape and you have hidden feelings for each other. When Snape refuses to acknowledge that you truly reciprocate his feelings, they lock him in the staffroom to force him to finally ask you out.

*GIF isn't mine.

Excited whispers and giggles sound from inside the staffroom. Who in the wizarding world is giggling? Severus thinks before he pushes the door open. No wonder; it’s Dumbledore and Minerva. The two jump away from each other the second Severus walks in. Tea flies into Minerva’s hands, and Dumbledore stares dreamily out the window. 

“Good day, Severus. What brings you here?” Minerva asks after sipping her tea.

He ignores their question and sneers, “What were you two old bats whispering about?”

Dumbledore’s eyes twinkle behind his half-moon spectacles. “In truth, Minerva and I were discussing what a lovely couple you and the charming History of Magic professor would make.” Minerva chokes on her tea, clearly unaware that Dumbledore planned to spill the details of their gossip talk. “We know of your deep, burning feelings for her and believe that it would be prudent to act on them.”

Blood rushes to Severus’s face. “I do not have feelings for her,” he spits. Even if he did, he thinks they would be neither deep nor burning. Sitting next to you at every meal, admiring your outfits and eyes, and dreaming of your every waking moment surely doesn’t constitute as that. 

Fine, perhaps he does fancy you just a little bit. 

“One may attempt to conceal their love, but love cannot be concealed in the way one gazes at their beloved,” Dumbledore says dreamily. 

“She looks at you the same way you look at her, lucky for you.” Minerva raises her eyebrows and throws him a knowing, smug smile. “If you weren’t always so engrossed in your work, you’d see it, too.”

Severus rolls his eyes. “I do not appreciate your meddling in my relationships with the other professors. Either way, you are becoming old and delusional.” The other two professors burst out laughing as Severus turns away and pours a cup of tea for himself. He makes a final comment as his back is turned, “Perhaps you bats need better spectacles or charms to improve your sanity.” 

Mere seconds after he takes his first sip, the staffroom door opens. Severus’s eyes shoot up to see who has entered into this embarrassing conversation, and it is none other than you. His gaze immediately lowers back to the tea, and his hair falls around his face to shield the fact that his face is turning an even brighter shade of red. You take note of the tense atmosphere and awkwardly greet, “Hi, everyone.”

Dumbledore and Minerva warmly greet you, while Severus nods in your direction. You blush at Severus’s albeit scarce attention and walk to stand by him at the drink table. 

“Look at the time. It appears that Minerva and I must depart for our daily bird watching. Hogsmeade residents have reported a sighting of the Fiery Frizzle, and it would be an absolute shame to miss witnessing the bird setting a cottage on fire,” Dumbledore declares. Minerva plays along and they stand up to leave the room.

“I didn’t know that you’re into bird watching,” you note as you pour milk into a coffee. 

“They aren’t,” Severus grunts with full knowledge of their true plan. They want to give you two some privacy so he can make some grand gesture demonstrating his love for you. Too bad for them; he plans to leave the staffroom soon after the older professors depart. Regardless of Severus’s comments, the two give him expectant glances before exiting. 

Silence engulfs the staffroom until you say, “I brought essays to grade. You can join me only if you want to, of course.” You smile shyly when he looks at you. 

“Unfortunately, I have duties to attend to,” Severus says and downs his remaining tea in one go despite how it burns his throat. With his hair covering his eyes, he glances at your dress one last time before heading for the door. It’s truly a shame that he doesn’t have more time (the courage, rather) to admire how it shows your curves in all the right places. 

Severus attempts to turn the door handle and discovers that it’s jammed. No matter the spell he casts and how many times he impatiently grunts “alohomora,” the door doesn’t budge. He notices that you’re looking at him, earning a nervous laugh from him. “The door refuses to open. Not surprising, considering I have been telling Dumbledore that it requires repair.”

“Really? I never had an issue with it. Do you need help?” you ask, but still walk over before he can respond. You cast several spells of your own, none of which work to open the door. Severus feels flustered, but whether it’s because of your closeness or his embarrassment at being unable to complete a simple task on his own, he doesn’t know. 

As you attempt to remove the door handle altogether, a realization hits Severus: the door won’t open unless he confesses his feelings or asks you out. His blood boils as he thinks about how that pair of old baboons are probably up in Dumbledore’s office at this very moment, giggling and kicking their feet with excitement like schoolchildren. He can’t wait to get out of here so he can storm into the office and hit them with every jinx and hex he can think of. 

But then again, neither of you can leave unless he makes a move. The staffroom is hardly the place for pouring his heart out or asking you out on a date. Severus supposes that inviting you to the Three Broomsticks is the best option since you might think he’s merely asking you as a friend. Though what is he supposed to do? Lean against the door and nonchalantly say, “Go to the Three Broomsticks with me?” Or magic a flower into existence and pop the question? Merlin, why does this feel more nerve-wracking than taking on a dragon or walking through the Forbidden Forest during a gloomy night? 

He’s snapped to attention when you say, “I don’t think this thing will budge.” 

“Yes, I believe so,” he mutters back. You’re looking up at him through your eyelashes. Ugh, this seems like the best time to ask you on a date. He crosses his arms against his chest, then uncrosses them because it makes him seem closed-off. Then they hang limply against his sides; no, that makes him look weak. Never mind any of this; just say something!

“Er, I want to… I was wondering if perhaps you, er,” he stammers and forces the rest out in a rushed sentence, “WouldliketogototheThreeBroomstickswithme?”

You scrunch your face together. “What?”

Why couldn’t you just hear him the first time? Do you wish to embarrass him? His eyes fix on a point on the ground to avoid the impending look of horror on your face as he clearly enunciates his next sentence. “Do you want to go to the Three Broomsticks with me this Saturday?”

With every ounce of his being, Severus forces himself to look at you. Disgust isn’t written on your face at all. Instead, you’re grinning widely, and your eyes are even brighter than usual. “Yes! Is six okay?”

The muscles of his mouth force his lips into a small smile. “Er, it is,” he replies without thinking if it does. Either way, he’d move around his entire schedule for a mere minute of your time. But then his heart sinks as he realizes that you’ve likely only agreed to accompany him to the Three Broomsticks as an outing between two friends. 

Severus is proven wrong once more when you lean up to him and give him a quick kiss on the cheek! Oh no, he must look like a bashful schoolboy due to his burning cheeks and widening grin. No matter any of that, though, because you kissed his cheek!

“I, er, I shall see you then,” he stammers. You smile and nod in agreement before he reaches for the door handle to leave before he bursts with giddiness. Lo and behold, the door finally opens. 

Unlike what Severus expected, Minerva and Dumbledore are standing at the end of the corridor. Good; he can murder them without having to walk too far! He rushes over to them and upon seeing him, their faces break out into vicious little smirks. 

“I have half a mind to turn you into mice and feed you to snakes!” Severus sneers. 

The two professors look at each other and laugh so hard that Minerva has to put a hand on Dumbledore’s arm to stable herself. “We see that you’ve taken our advice to heart,” Dumbledore says. “Did she agree to your invitation?”

“That is none of your business!” he spits. 

“It appears that she did agree, Albus!” Minerva exclaims. “You can thank us for that later. I rather think that Minerva would be a beautiful middle name for your future baby girl.” 

Severus’s eyes narrow and he advances on the two, but he merely gets close enough to scowl in their faces. “I rather think that name hideous!” he snaps and jerks back to leave the two where they are in the hall.  

But he’s halfway to the stairs when Dumbledore calls back, “Perhaps Albus would be a suitable middle name for a boy!” 

Severus doesn’t respond. Instead, he flicks his wand at a window, smashing it and sending glass flying everywhere. His cloak billows around him as he grumpily climbs the stairs and disappears from sight, but he can’t help but wonder what name would be regal enough for his future child. 

[6mommymilkers9]

Greedy Little Thief

Severus Snape x Student Reader

Summary : In seventh year, an infatuation with your Head of House has been brewing for too long.

Tw : None

Grasping the vial, Severus flipped open the spout, giving a quick sniff. "Love potion." Turning his head to Dumbledore, who stared with a knowing glance. "Now we know who's been stealing for your stores, Severus."

The last few weeks had been aggravating. Thankfully, the Tri-wizard Tournament, distracting students and professors alike, especially Snape. Getting into his storage room was no easy task, narrowly, especially the greasy haired madman a time or two.

Today was no different; maybe, just maybe, you could take one more vial. That's all you needed. Strolling the dungeons with a certain stride, making way to potions class, Severus surely was watching the games, hell everyone was.

You, on the other hand, couldn't be bothered, opting to take advantage. Taking ahold on the door handle, quietly opening the door, slithering into the classroom. Shutting the door behind, you turned, eyes meeting your target. Your feet moved, light as a feather, a creeked of the floor, neither here nor there.

Another twist of your wrist, you were greeted to his office, and alike, his storage room to the left, making way. The room, only light with a small candle on the professors desk, was dim, making you squint a bit, trying not to bump into anything. As many times as you've been in here, you haven't quite mapped out his room yet.

A small breath, the scent of lavender filled your nostrils, greeting your glands with a faint smile. If there was one thing you couldn't get enough of, it was his scent.

Every time the professor walked by, handing out homework or grades, the hint of lavender had you wanting chasing for more, nearly making you drool at times.

The scent nearly driving you mad for years, yearning for slip of the fingers, getting a light touch of his quill, whenever you had to bother the poor man with mindless questions, hoping for the scent to stick.

Another breath, you blinked, adjusting to the darkness, twisting the knob. Before you could fully open the door, someone had grabbed your sweater, pushing you against the nearest stone wall, making you cry out.

"You think you could get away with it Miss L/N? You greedy little thief." Severus rushed, his eyes dark, yet not holding much distain as usual.

"P-Professor please! I can explain." Barely getting the words out, grasping the professors wrist, taking note how warm they were compared to how cold he presented.

Severus knew, he had a feeling for days now. Only thing that caught him off guard was you. The top student in his Advanced Potions class was a thief. But why? That is what bugged the tall, tasteless man.

He wasn't a daft man, watching your glances, the feeling of you two brushing against each other in the hallways, dismissing it as a mistake on your end. It was the most contact he had with anyone in a long time.

Though, he couldn't deny, the feeling was exasperating, craving more from your liking. While his mind might deny, his conscience couldn't, he had grown feelings for the Slytherin girl in his clutches.

Dumbledore noticed, from the head table to the students, eyes glancing between his Potions master and the Slytherin girl. The conniving Headmaster, making due to have the lot paired during demonstrations and tasks he brought onto them both, not necessarily needing either or to do them.

When the headmaster and professor found the storage room to be missing some bottles, the older man knew just who was the culprit, leading the Severus to figure out for himself; Dumbledore being a romantic himself. Strings are attached to people for a reason, after all.

"Give me a reason to not give you detention, Miss L/N. Stealing from my personal belongings will surely lead to punishment from myself."

The seventh year couldn't help but feel the blood rush to her cheeks, tightening her grip onto the man, glancing between his eyes and the crook of his neck, embarrassed. "I dunno, sir. I thought.." You paused, barely meeting his guaze, thinking of how to confess your endeavors. "Well..I thought it would work. You smelled the amortentia, didn't you? What else was I supposed to do?" You question, searching for an answer from the Potions master.

It was true, nearly a month ago, students were assigned to make 'Amortentia', a love potion transfixed to cast itself as the smell of your lover, yours smelling for lavender, and dust. Severus, nearly casting it as a coincidence, yet in the evening, making his own, smelling your perfume.

His grip lightened just a tad, lips narrow, screaming to move, to speak. His chest, wanting to burst, yet, steady within it's confinement. "You stupid girl." He muttered, stepping into his nose was grazing yours. "A love potion cannot enhance what Amortentia presents. All you had to do was ask."

Before your lips could part, questioning his words, you felt his own brushing yours, before melting into place, his stance softening, feeling your own relax. Your knees felt like buckling under their own weight, processing what was happening.

Many nights you craved this exact moment, and it was better than your subconscience could depict. Nails digging into pale, ghostly skin, you pushed your head forward, deepening the kiss, exasperated.

Pulling away, Severus met your eyes, a force needly pushing him back into you. "Does this mean I can skip the upcoming exam sir?" The slytherin girl asked, chest puffing up in down, catching up with itself; a smile appearing on the inner corners of your lips.

"Hardly." The professor grunted, his hands finding their way onto the stone wall, either or blocking your shoulders. "Detention. Tonight, Miss L/N." How could you say no to the man?

[dreamingofmarauders]

𝐘𝐨𝐮!

𝘾𝙝𝙖𝙥𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙊𝙣𝙚

James Potter x Fem!Slytherin!Reader

Next Part Series Masterlist

Summary: In which James Potter is beyond shocked to see you introduced as the newest Order member. After all, to him, you’re nothing but a cruel, cold, pureblooded Slytherin

Word Count: 1.2K

Warnings: House stereotyping/prejudice (I think that's it, if not, let me know please!)

A/N: The inspiration for this came while I was reading @ellecdc's Sirius Black x Reader series called Come Back, Be Here and it was such an amazing read! Go read it if you haven't already! <33

───※ ·❆· ※───

The Order of the Phoenix, a secret society founded by the Headmaster of Hogwarts, Albus Dumbledore, was gathered once again in another secret location. All the members were seated in their respective seats, looking at the Headmaster to begin speaking.

“Thank you all for coming on such short notice.” Dumbledore said, his voice bouncing off the walls, “I received a tip that revealed a death eater meeting is to take place tonight, not too far from Diagon Alley.” He said. “I will have to arrange a few members to be sent to scout out the meeting, but before that, I have an important announcement.”

Everyone in the room exchanged glances, a nervousness settling for what could be bad news to be revealed.

“I have recruited a new member, who has already proven what a great asset she will be to our team.”

“Who?” Sirius asked.

Albus Dumbledore gestured towards the door, “Come in.”

You strutted in, dressed in dark clothes with your wand twirling between your fingers as a smile sat upon your lips.

“You!”

And two sets of chairs screeched as two individual wands were directed at you.

“What are you doing here?!” James shouted, Sirius nodding as he backed his best mate.

“Charming. Quite a nice welcome you’ve all prepared for me, Headmaster?”

Dumbledore’s blue eyes twinkled as he directed his gaze from you to the pair of Black and Potter.

“Wands down, boys. Y/n L/n will henceforth be joining us from today.” He said, declaring it to the whole room.

“But, Professor!” James exclaimed, “Y/n’s a Slytherin!”

“Gee, thanks for noticing.”

James glared at you before he turned his eyes onto Dumbledore, his expression having turned into one of desperation. “You can’t possibly let her join!” He practically begged. “They’re all the same, the treacherous snakes can’t be trusted!”

Dumbledore opened his mouth to reply but you beat him to it.

“Well not everyone can be so dimwitted that they would end up in Gryffindor.” You said, making both James and Sirius scowl.

"We are very intelligent, thank you very much!" Sirius interjected, making you shoot a look in return that said are you really though?

“Plus," You continued "Not everyone is the same because even a lion could be a snake in disguise.”

James’ eyebrows furrowed together, “What do you mean to imply by that?”

You merely shrugged, earning a scoff from James.

“That’s enough now.” Professor McGonagall called out sternly, making both you and James fall quiet and take your seats.

“Now that we have exchanged small pleasantries,” James and you loudly scoffed, “Onto the mission. I will be sending out Remus Lupin, James Potter, Benjy Fenwick, Dorcas Meadowes and Y/n L/n.” Dumbledore gently smiled, “This tip was given by Y/n herself and this proves how much of a help Y/n’s addition to the Order will be.

A cry of protest sounded from the young Potter, “Headmaster! How can you believe her? For all we know, she could be sending us into a death trap!” James exclaimed, glaring at you, who stood up with a scoff.

“And that is the exact reason I am coming along! If something happens, I will be there too!”

“Nope! Not happening! Headmaster, I refuse to go if she goes!” James said.

“Mr. Potter,” McGonagall said, “Stop behaving so childish. Miss. L/n will be going and that is final.”

James grumbled and muttered, “Fine.” Knowing by now that Professor McGonagall could get real scary when she needed to be.

“Good, now get going.”

James glared your way to which you only smirked at him, irking the young Potter even more.

*.·:·.✧ ✦ ✧.·:·.*

The mission was partially successful as like the tip you had given, there was a death eater meeting. However, they sensed the presence of Order members too early and before you all could even cast a spell their way, they had gone.

Most of the Order had been kind and accepted you in, after all, if Dumbledore trusted you, what reason did they have not to? Well, everyone except for Sirius Black and James Potter. 

Especially James Potter.

He loathed you. Simple as that. Your mere existence irked him, like it has been since your shared days at Hogwarts. You always had a way that managed to annoy him, and he had been always determined to get under your skin every time he caught sight of you within the castle.

James wasn’t sure when it started but the interactions between the two of you had become frequent since fifth year. He despised you for being a Slytherin, after all you were just like the rest, acting as if you were superior. But it was also the way you winked at him or that teasing smile that crawled onto your lips. Or how you would speak in a playful tone, flicking your hair over your shoulder every time you walked away or how you twirled your wand teasingly between your nimble fingers.

It infuriated him.

Everything about you annoyed James Potter to no end.

Henceforth, why he was so against your arrival into the Order and how he was determined to get at you every chance he could get.

"Wow, L/n, I'm surprised you haven't melted yet." James said later one evening at an Order meeting.

You cocked an eyebrow at him, "Meaning?"

"Meaning my burning hatred towards you, I was expecting you to have skedaddled out of here."

You gave him a weird look, "Well, that genuinely made no sense, Potter. Now excuse me." You said, returning to your conversation with Remus.

James grumbled, turning towards his best mate, "Moony! Stop hanging out with her!"

Remus let out an exasperated sigh, "Listen, Prongs, I love having you as a friend, truly I do, but if you're going to keep this up, I won't hesitate to hex your arse off the planet."

James stared at his best friend, dumbfounded, while you doubled over laughing.

"Moony," James muttered out hollowly, "How could you? You're my best friend!" He accused Remus in an over dramatic manner.

"And Y/n is also a friend of mine."

This threw James off completely, "She's WHAT!?"

"A friend. She was nothing but polite to me throughout school and I have no reason to be rude to her."

You shot Remus a smile of gratitude before moving your gaze to James, eyes turning cold as you stood up.

"I love to annoy you, truly, but I find it unfair how you're always taking out what most of my house has done against me. Not everyone is the same. I'm not like them." You breathed out, your voice wavering near the end.

James suddenly felt a weird sensation wash over him and he watched you turn around and go.

"Mate," James looked at his friend, his attention snapping from you to Remus, "You don't need to be so mean to her. She has gone through a lot."

James scoffed loudly, "I doubt that."

Remus gave his friend an expression of what looked like pity and exasperation. He patted James on the shoulder before walking away. James stood there, lost within his own thoughts. He shook his head vigorously after a few seconds.

No, to him you were merely one of them. You were from a family of death eaters. You were from the house that turned out all the dark wizards. You were just one of them and nothing more. And he hated them all.

"I hate you." He whispered.

Although, James' perception about you would be challenged as the next Order mission would bring an unexpected twist.

════ ⋆★⋆ ════

A/N: Ok, so I had this idea of this one scene and I was planning on just a oneshot but instead I decided to go ahead and make a mini series, just so I can write more about James and Reader in this enemies to lovers sort of trope. I've never really written for James before, so I hope you all liked it and stay tuned for the next one because it's going to be good! Love you all and take care! <33

Love, Serina ❤

[wordsarelife]

—the black dog

pairing: theo nott x fem!reader

summary: the war awakes something in theo you hadn't thought was even there. you battle with your feelings of heartbreak, while you try to forget his everlasting presence in your life

warnings: mentions of death, grief, pain and torture. canon typical violence. this is very much heartbreak through and through

note: this isn't exactly what you asked for but your request inspired me to write this. i feel like it was important to highlight the complicated relationship that theo and reader resulted in because of the war.

theo and draco are cousins in this.

"would you please just talk to me?" you screamed. he had been acting weird for a few days now. 

at first you hadn't thought anything of it, not at the beginning. it had started with draco, who had been strange since the school year started, staying behind when the rest of you would go somewhere or disappearing in the middle of dinner. 

you had tried talking to him, you had grown closer over the time you and theo were together. you had quickly realized that it was hard for draco to build relationships, partly because he wasn't sure how and partly because he was scared of being left. 

you had done a pretty good job at showing him that you were going nowhere and that he, even if theo and you should break up one day, would still be your friend. 

you had thought that it had something to do with his parents. he didn't mention them often and you had only met them once, during a visit to the manor for a festivity during the winter break of the fifth year. you admitted that you didn't know them well, but it was easy enough for you to judge narcissa malfoy and the connection she had to her son. the love that kept her from ever risking something happening to him.

whatever was going on with him, his mother was well informed and probably already searching for a solution.

but draco had made it clear to you that he wanted to be left alone and you didn't push him to tell you more, just comforted him whenever he would let you or pansy. 

his weird behavior had been a constant throughout the entire year, until the point where it had influenced mattheo and enzo to act just as suspiciously and if you thought it couldn't get worse, you had been wrong. 

"i can't" theo muttered between clenched teeth, and you tried to look at his face as he frantically turned away from you. 

"is it about harry? is it about something he said to draco? did he say something to you?"

harry and the rest of your gryffindor friends were normally a topic you strictly avoided when in company of the slytherins and especially draco. you didn't agree on the childish rivalry they had going on and rather just kept out of that. but now that you thought about it, harry had been acting just as strange as draco had since the beginning of the year.

"potter doesn't matter, y/n" theo pressed his hands on both your shoulders, scaring you with the look on his face. 

"let me help you, love" you tried to not let it affect you, to not let the fear shine through your voice and honestly, you weren't scared of him, but of what would happen to the boy you loved so desperately it felt like breathing. 

"you can't" theo shook his head. "but you have to get ouf of the castle immediately, promise it to me"

"what? why should i--"

"you have to promise it" theo repeated louder, desperate and teary eyed as he stared at you like you had already died. 

the threatening war had made it harder to overlook the differences between you and the slytherins. you were a pureblooded witch, but definitely didn't share the same views about blood purity your friends did. 

"okay" you cooed, taking him into your arms. "i promise, i promise anything you want" 

theo didn't leave much room for questions when he told you to get off the hogwarts grounds and apparate home to your parents a few minutes later. you were scared and confused, as you watched the fear in his eyes flame up at whatever was coming. there was something he was not telling you and it simply broke your heart, knowing that he had to go through it alone. 

you weren't sure what took over you, when you heard a familar laugh, one that was so earth shattering and haunting, you couldn't help but dash back into the castle, despite what you had promised your boyfriend, his name repeating over and over again in your mind. 

you took two stairs at once, sprinting up the tower, wand in hand and ready to jump to theo's defense. 

"you made mummy so proud, boys" bellatrix said and you wanted to throw up at the tone in her voice. you could just imagine enzo and mattheo, or what was left of them, looking at their mother, not one bit of love or familiarity on their face. just fear. 

before you could climb the rest of the stairs, a hand grabbed you, pulling you to the side, behind old school supplies. the persons other hand was pressed onto your mouth and your eyes grew big until you noticed harry, stoic expression, not amused at seeing you. 

"harry" you muttered relieved. 

"what are you doing here?" harry whispered, not caring for the fear in your voice or the intent you had had coming up here in the first place. 

before you could answer, bellatrix spoke once again. 

"your boy has surely made you proud too, nott" she giggled. "just like our draco will make his parents in just a few minutes"

your eyes went up to the floor above you like your own name had been called. it wasn't even theo she had called by the name and still you could just imagine his slumped down shoulders and sickly expression. the same he had been spotting these past few days.

harry watched you closely, as if to make sure you would keep quiet, before his eyes turned back up too. 

“do it” bellaxtrix hissed at draco, who had raised his wand at dumbledore.

harry and you exchanged glances, before he too, raised his wand. you gripped on his arms tightly, shaking your head at him. 

“we can’t” you mouthed. 

“dumbledore” harry whispered. you shook your head again, tears spilling over your cheeks. 

your eyes left harry and wandered back through the floorboards. you couldn’t see theo, enzo, and mattheo, but draco was clearly shaking in fear and you couldn’t help but be worried about him. 

“draco” bellaxtrix encouraged once more “do it!”

“he’s not brave enough, bellatrix” notts voice rang out sounding as triumphantly as possible. you heard movement on the floor, a pair of dark shoes stepping forward and you wondered what nott was planning to do, when your heart suddenly stopped beating. 

“avada kedavra” a voice muttered, wand raised and aimed at dumbledore, who fell backwards so slowly as if time had stopped.  

harry gripped your arm, your body still frozen, as your eyes stayed focused on notts shoes. theodore notts shoes. not his father. theo, your theo. 

theo had just killed dumbledore. 

one part of you wanted to scream, jump into the open and scream at him or bellatrix or all the people a few steps above you, but the other part, the unstoppable dread, was aching to hide away from all of it, to just go and never come back.

how could you ever look at him again after what you had just witnessed? would he still be the same after he had done something like this? you couldn’t. he wouldn’t. your heart ripped open. 

“y/n” harry whispered, pushing you back to hide the both of you behind some old astronomy maps. footsteps descended down the stairs and out of the tower and you felt like you could breathe again once he had left. 

you sank to your knees immediately. harry still watched the space around you, not sure if you were entirely safe yet. 

someone ran up the stairs. harry tried grabbing you to push you back behind the old things, to shield you from whoever was coming back and trying to finish the job. 

it was snape and harry felt relieved for the first time upon seeing the teacher. he didn’t fully trust him, but dumbledore did. also, snape was a far better option than any of the death eaters. 

snapes eyes jumped between harry and you on the ground, before they turned to look up the stairs. 

“they’re gone” harry said, voice raised to drown out your sobbing, before he bent down once more and helped you back onto your feet. he pulled you close, to bring you comfort and shield your tear spilled face from snape's penetrating gaze.

harry wasn’t sure if he imagined it, but he could almost see a bit of pity in snape’s eyes, when the man watched you stand on your shivering legs, only held up by harry, as if your body was too heavy to stand on it’s own.

it was just suddenly that the meaning of snape's presence painted a clear picture in your mind. narcissa malfoy hadn't found a solution, no she had found something that was even better: a substitute, someone to step in, when draco would ultimately fail upon the task he had been given.

and tiberius nott had done the same, only that he had proudly sold out his son instead of sparing his life.

you threw off harry’s arms, walking across the room, step by step, until you were standing in front of the teacher, ready to bash his head in.

“you are too late” you cried, not caring if spit or tears or anything else fell onto his robes. you stabbed a finger to his chest. “it’s your job to help. why didn’t you help him?” you cried.

snape furrowed his brows in confusion. “draco?” he asked in his normal tone, but a little bit of surprise broke through. just like you had thought. not even snape had held draco for capable of fulfilling his task.

you shook your head. slowly, bitterly. It was unfair that you had to say his name, that you had to recapture the event like a missed quidditch game, that snape had been late enough to miss it, but perfectly on time to watch your life fall apart.

you couldn’t bring yourself to do it. couldn’t even mutter the name that had been the most beautiful thing to you these past years, there was nothing left. no meaning behind those letters and still you couldn’t do it. “nott” you said. 

it was over. 

“nott?” snape repeated, as if he was daring you to finally say what you had been dreading. 

“junior” harry muttered. you turned your head at him and he looked down on his shoes, as if he was ashamed you had heard him. 

“surprisingly unexpected” snape noted, like you had been discussing the weather.

“what?” you muttered, your voice strained. 

“y/n” harry said softly and you could hear him coming closer. you broke apart from snape, slapping his hand away when he tried reaching for your arm in an unusual caring manner. 

“you failed him” you spit at him, before you stormed out of the tower, harry hot on your heels.

bellaxtrix and the rest of the deatheaters, were jumping down the grass path to hagrids hut. following behind them were draco, enzo, mattheo and finally theo, who stepped out of the castle as last.

they had probably strolled through the halls, bringing their inevitable destruction into the home you had grown to love and cherish.

harry and you had watched them from the side of the entryway, dried tears on your cheeks and the anger taking over the pain that had tightened your chest. you loved him, but you couldn't believe that he had had no choice.

killing someone was not debatable.

you had watched in susprise when theo had not been there with them, but your surprise had been quickly taken over by even more anger, when he finally strolled through the door, hands in his pockets, like he was talking a late evening stroll.

your hand wept forward without so much as a thought, gripping the material of his tie and yanking him back.

theo made a gurgling sound, briefly breathless, and it was only his surprise that allowed you to measure up enough strength to effectively pull him back. that and your anger.

harry helped you as he pushed theo against the wall, wand at his throat.

theo took a big breath as soon as you let go of his tie, his eyes widened in surprise as he completely ignored harry and only looked at you, your face cast with shadows of the darkness in the creeping night and the regret that was so evident it only pained him further.

"didn't i tell you to go home?" it didn't surprise you that there was still a hint of superiority in his voice, even if it had faltered tremendously.

"you knew about all of it, didn't you?" you asked instead.

"y/n" theo sighed, in a tone as if he was inspecting a failed task for a homework you hadn't been able to finish. "i can explain"

"i don't think you should" you muttered and you were doing your best to not let the look of helplessness that now entered his face break your heart any further. "i just think i speak for the both of us, when i say that it's over"

"y/n" theo pleaded, pushing against harry's hold to try and reach for you. you stepped back and harry pushed the tip of his wand deeper into theo's neck.

you shook your head, not having it in you to look at him, before you turned around. "do what you have to do" you left the two of them alone, knowing that harry was just waiting to punish theo for killing one of the most important people to him.

you couldn't muster up the courage to even care about what would happen to him. your anger at snape had evaporated as fast as it had come. theo had it in him to kill and snape's late arrival changed nothing about that.

the person you had loved died together with the headmaster.

everything had been lost the moment he had muttered the curse, leaving behind a hurricane of feelings in your heart, but no one left to love in this world.

you did not waste another thought for him, pushing his name so far away from your mind, you almost forgot about him completely.

but a three-year relationship wasn't just consisting of memories, but of habits too and you found yourself thinking about possibilities in the dead of night.

possibilities that you had thought to be endless before, but of which was only one left now.

what if theo hadn't killed dumbledore?

your friends were clearly worried about you. hermione and ginny never left you alone during your stay in the burrow or during the nights, which had to have been the most haunting. the time were you most experienced his loss, as nightmares were plaguing your mind and fear was taking over your senses, feeling like you had made a mistake with theo. even if your friends and the weasleys said something different.

it was the same restlessness that lead to you following hermione, ron and harry on an adventure that was trying to fulfill an impossible task.

but there was no hope left if you didn't at least try what had been asked of you and you were smart enough to realize that.

even though you were always together, the time you were on the road seemed to be the most lonely you had ever felt and you found yourself thinking more about theo than you had wanted to.

none of your friends dared to say anything to you the next morning, when you would call out his name in your dream, always asking yourself what had happened, and if he was even still alive.

your question was answered in a different way than you had liked, when your group was discovered by deatheaters and brought back to malfoy manor, where not only draco and the malfoys, but theo was staying too.

you hadn't seen him at first, down in the dungeon. but surely they had come to get hermione, bringing her back a few hours later, scarred and crying for mercy as she fell into ron's arms.

it took another hour to call for the other female friend of harry potter.

"the other?" you could draco's voice ask when you were dragged up the stairs and through the halls.

"what other?" it was theo's voice that was now speaking, fear and dread overweighing the curiosity.

the door flew open and five people turned around to gain a look at you.

narcissa and lucius malfoy were sitting in obnoxious chairs, spotting similiar looks of surprise and interest.

bellatrix was hanging over the back of narcissa's chair. her hands pressing down on her younger sister's shoulders, squeezing them as if she was excited.

narcissa suddenly seemed less content, as she heard the similar gasps coming from her sons and nephew's mouths.

draco and theo were staring at you wide-eyed. their faces pale and painfully twisted as they recalled what had happened with harry potter's other friend just hours before.

"oh" bellatrix quirked up when the unknown death eater threw you to the floor and theo and draco dashed forward at the same time to try and catch you, before they were held back by the black haired witch. "do you happen to know her?"

your eyes were fixated on the doors behind you, which fell close with a loud thud as the deatheater who had brought you disappeared.

"no" draco and theo mustered up to stutter at the same time.

you send a glare across the room. it meant nothing, those two were only shells of the boys you had once known. but the innocence had been drained from them like a well run dry in a relentless drought.

"what are we going to do with you?" bellatrix smiled, stepping away from the chair and walking around your body on the floor.

narcissa reached for theo's arm, when he was about to drag bellatrix away from you.

you averted your eyes. not giving her the satisfaction to see the fear in them.

bellatrix looked through your act immediately. "she's a tough one" she noted and her expression of admiration changed to a malicious grin as she saw theo close his eyes.

"you do it" she laughed excitedly, stepping forward and pulling theo into the middle of the room.

"bellatrix, please" narcissa said, not even bothering to stand up and stop her sister from her attempt.

"what, cissy?" bellatrix asked. "you don't think she should be punished for stealing?"

"stealing what?" your voice made bellatrix turn around dramatically.

"would you look at that!" she gushed "the girl can speak!"

"yes" you nodded "and the girl can even tell you that she stole nothing"

"lie" bellatrix giggled and you had to admire her persistence, while the playful tone in her voice kept you on edge, always waiting for the moment she would break into an insanely loud scream.

you had heard not only hermione's cries, but bellatrix' screams from the dungeon. that gave a measure to how loud she was able to scream. and how she could torture until there was nothing left of the person you had once been.

"atta boy!" bellatrix encouraged theo, as she pushed him closer, until he was standing just a few feet from your body.

you wouldn't beg for their mercy. you would die without feigning any regret. if bellatrix really thought you stole something from her, you were glad she was torturing you instead of harry, who was much more important for everything coming after.

you could afford to die so early into the war. you were of no importance for the safety of the wizarding world.

you looked up at theo. the blue of his eyes mixed together with the tears that were already spilling over the edges.

"it shouldn't be hard" you said, voice hoarse and strained. you had been apart for almost ten months and he was still creating a lump in your throat, he was standing for everything that had been lost.

theo exchanged a glance with draco, almost as if begging him to take his place.

"bellatrix, this is madness" narcissa said, a bit stricter now, as if her simple words could really change the mind of someone who had already decided to embrace the madness her sould had been corrupted by.

"oh, cissy" bellatrix giggled "how will he learn? just another step on the path he must take to be granted the honour of the dark lord"

"do it" you said to theo, ignoring what bellatrix was babbling about.

"i can't—“ theo looked back at narcissa, talking to her rather than you.

"do it!" you repeated, louder this time.

"she even wants him to" bellatrix noted, clear amusement in her voice. she was almost excited to find out more about the conflict between you and her nephew.

"she's a pureblooded witch" theo turned to bellatrix, now trying to convince her himself. "she's one of us"

"i'm not" you protested, but bellatrix ignored you, stepping forward and touching theo's cheek softly with the pocket knife that she had taken from her robes, dripping in blood. hermione's blood probably.

"i thought you didn't know her" bellatrix mused "but the knowledge about her blood status suggests otherwise" theo gulped and before he was ready to say something, bellatrix has dragged the weapon across his cheek with one quick gesture, leaving a bleeding cut.

theo looked down quickly, as if to hide his injury from you, but he hadn't missed the gasp of air you had taken, scared that the woman had planned to kill him.

bellatrix stepped back next to her sister. "go on boy, don't make auntie bella angry" she threatened, playing with the knife in her hand.

not even narcissa dared to say something.

"just kill me" you told theo, when he raised his eyes to look at you once more, wand still losely hanging to the side. "you know how to"

"y/n" theo muttered, just loud enough for you to hear.

"it doesn't matter" you shook your head. "just do it" you closed your eyes, ready for the stream of the green curse to take over your body and future.

theo did not raise his wand.

"kill me" you said loudly, unforgiving, almost screaming. you opened your eyes to look at your tormentors. apart from bellatrix none of them looked like they were particularly enjoying what was happening.

bellatrix’s eyes gleamed with a twisted satisfaction as if she was savoring the power she held over theo. narcissa’s face was a portrait of conflicted emotions, torn between her loyalty to her sister and her love for her son and nephew. lucius’s gaze darted nervously between the scene unfolding before him, as if hoping for some resolution to the madness. draco was crying and trying to swallow the breaths that were tempting him to throw up right on his aunt's feet.

and theo? theo was rather keen on killing himself than doing you any harm.

you were less forgiving. "kill me like you killed dumbledore!" you screamed, tears falling on the floor in front of you, as your voice echoed off the cold stone walls. the anger in your voice was raw, pure, and unfiltered. theo flinched at the words, his face paling further, if that was even possible. the weight of your demand seemed to crush him, making it even harder for him to act.

you were so indescribably angry. but not at what he had done to you, but rather what he had done to himself. and that in it alone was the reason you would never forgive him.

he had ruined what you had loved. he had killed the person you had loved the most and you had nothing left to care about what would happen to you.

maybe it was his punishment that he had to be the one to kill or torture you.

theo’s grip on his wand faltered as he looked at you with a mixture of horror and heartbreak. he seemed to be struggling not just with what he was being asked to do, but with the shattered remnants of the person he used to be.

bellatrix’s patience wore thin, her frustration evident as she waved her wand dismissively. “enough of this pathetic display,” she sneered, her voice dripping with venom. “the boy is clearly too weak for this task.”

“no!” theo shouted, his voice cracking. “i can’t— i won’t—” his wand dropped to the floor, clattering against the stone with a finality that seemed to reverberate through the room.

the room erupted into chaos as bellatrix’s fury reached its peak. she turned on theo with a rage that was almost as palpable as your own pain. narcissa tried to intervene, her voice pleading, but it was clear that the darkness had already taken hold.

but before she was able to mutter a curse, to torture or kill theo right in front of your eyes, harry, ron and hermione came running in the room, wands raised they started firing spells.

it took you a moment longer to get up. you and theo held eye contact, the boy just a crumpled mess on the floor in front of you. you reached out your hand and took his wand, disarming bellatrix, who began screaming.

the fight was short and unforgiving as the malfoys were throwing spells. draco was struggling to keep up with harry's quick movements and theo did not even make an attempt to stand up. instead he kept his eyes trained on you.

dobby appeared suddenly, calling you to him to bring you to safety, after he had let a chandelier fall onto bellatrix who had held a knife to hermione's throat.

you stepped forward once more, kneeling in front of theo, who looked up at you with curiosity, just hoping you would be taking him with you.

"i will never forgive you" you muttered instead and all hope left his face and heart. you healed the cut on his cheek with a move of his own wand. "you should've killed me and maybe i could've been able to"

you did not look back again as you ran across the room to your friends. you just left him there, on the ground in malfoy manor, as you took dobby's hand and followed your friends into the uncertain.

one heart shattering realisation left with you that day.

theo's gaze would haunt your nightmares. but the possibility of his death would haunt your dreams, as you could only forgive him if he didn't survive.

[iridecsense]

nepenthe - m.

⊰ 𝘱𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘰𝘶𝘴                    𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘱𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘳𝘦𝘦                       𝘯𝘦𝘹𝘵 ⊱

             ──── ⋅ ⍤ ⋅⊰⋅∘ 〄 ∘⋅⊱⋅ ⍤ ⋅ ────

⤷ summary: Proceeding the encounter with Grindelwald in Paris, Newt goes seaward on a secret mission for Dumbledore when his ship is caught in a storm...

✧ word count: 11.1k ✧ pairing: newt scamander | siren!reader ✧ genre: romance, slow burn, angst, adventure ✧ warnings: depictions of violence and death ✧ author’s note:  Who updates after nearly five years? Me. I do. Anywayy, feel free to comment or send me feedback via my ask box, I love hearing from you all. Hopefully, it will encourage me to finish this series. That being said, I hope you enjoy!

             ──── ⋅ ⍤ ⋅⊰⋅∘ 〄 ∘⋅⊱⋅ ⍤ ⋅ ────

Newt was no stranger to the sea. He had spent years aboard ships, exploring the world, and from it, he found the ocean more fascinating than anything else on Earth. It was a vast expansion of salty water that covered seventy percent of the Earth and was home to more than half of its creatures—most of which have yet to be discovered, a feat that both challenged and excited him. While most feared the ocean, he embraced it. He wished that Jacob felt the same. 

Jacob had a hard time adjusting to life at sea. While Newt kept his friend’s seasickness at bay, his preexisting fears still lingered. Jacob was no help when it came to sailing. He was far too clumsy and anxious to work under Uluras’s command. His talents lay elsewhere, elsewhere being the ship’s kitchen. Jacob spent most of his time down there, cooking and baking meals and treats for everyone. He wasn’t doing much cooking back in London, so Newt suspected it was therapeutic for him in more ways than one. Either way, he was glad to see Jacob active and committed. 

They sailed smoothly for three days. During those days, Uluras took a liking to Newt, effectively taking him under his wing. They often shared stories, Newt telling of his adventures around the world, and Uluras proudly spoke of tales from his mother country. There were times when Newt would get him to talk about Dumbledore and their misadventures when they were both young men. Even now, on what Uluras revealed to be their last night aboard the ship, they all sat on deck eating the supper Jacob and Niris prepared, sharing entertaining stories of how they spent their time in school. Newt stayed quiet for the most part, content with listening to Uluras’s tall tales and Niris’s troublemaking.

Under the night sky, the sea glittered and shined. It was calm; the water gently lapped at the sides of the ship, and, if you listened closely, you could hear the fin whales singing in the distance. It was a peaceful night, the most peaceful night they had while on board. Newt sat in comfortable silence as the others laughed heartily at a story Niris had concluded telling. They finished their meals and turned to drink, a sweet rice wine to fill their stomachs. Newt disliked the alcoholic drink, as he did all alcoholic drinks, but he still sipped the contents of his mug every so often to blend in. 

It wasn’t long before everyone grew tired. They had a long day ahead of them and would need all the sleep they could get. Niris was the first to retire to his nook. Jacob followed soon after, taking the mugs and plates back into the kitchen, claiming he would deal with them in the morning. Truthfully, Newt was rather exhausted himself. He could feel the weight of his tiredness pulling at his eyelids, but the ticking ambush of questions that relentlessly swelled in the back of his head kept him restless. Uluras had moved to the forecastle. His hand still clutched around a mug of wine as he stared up at the sky, sipping peacefully. Newt was unsure if he should disturb him. 

“Yuh just gonna stand there watchin’ mi, or yuh gonna speak what’s pan yuh mind?” Uluras spoke with his back still turned. 

Newt straightened his posture, flustered. He climbed up the steps and onto the deck to stand at Uluras’s side. The wind moaned lowly around them. Uluras kept his gaze forward, barely acknowledging Newt’s presence. Newt, feeling displaced, did the same. He looked at the night horizon, watching the bow of the ship cut through the waves with ease. “I was thinking about tomorrow,” Newt confessed after a brief silence. “I’m still unsure of what exactly I am to do when we reach Italy. It’s not as if Dumbledore gave me instructions.” Uluras huffed through his nose. “No need for instructions. What yuh need is a name,” he said. Newt furrowed his brows. “A name?” Uluras turned towards Newt. “In the mornin’, ‘round noon, we will dock in Naples. There yuh must find a woman named Reinette.”

“Reinette?” Newt repeated. “Who’s Reinette?” 

“She is a talented witch with the gift of seeing. Her gift has given her the advantage of knowin’ many things. When yuh get there, yuh must find her.”

“How do you suppose I do that?”

“It’s been a while, but I’m sure she hasn’t left. When I knew her well she worked in a pub. What was it called?” Uluras pursed his lips in thought, snapping his fingers as he muttered different names. “La Belladonna? No. It was Il Basalisc, I think... or maybe it was... It was somethin’ with a B.” Shaking his head, the older man sucked his teeth and sighed. “Just ask around for Reinette. I’m sure a local will be able to point yuh in the right direction. It's not like she keeps a low profile.” He rolled his eyes, turning around to walk back down the stairs.  Newt wasn’t sure he understood what Uluras meant by that, but he took the new information gladly. It was better than nothing. 

“You should rest, Scamander.” Newt turned on his heels to look down at Uluras on the deck. “This ting that Dumbledore’s got yuh wrapped up in...It all starts there. An’ yuh’ll be needing all the rest you can get.” Newt nodded in an unconfident manner. Uluras, having drunken himself into lethargy, disappeared into his quarters for the night, leaving Newt alone on deck. He didn’t get much sleep that night.

                                   ⁎ ⊹

                                 ⁂ ˚ ✧ ⁂

                                  ⊹ ＊

Newt lay on his cot inside his case, staring up at the ceiling, lost in thought, when Jacob descended the ladder. He jumped from the ladder a few feet from the floor, landing with a thud, and turned to his friend. “Did you sleep in here?” Jacob asked. Newt shook his head. Jacob sighed, looking around the shack. His eyes caught sight of a strange creature similar to a hummingbird in the way its wings flapped incessantly, though it was double the size and had a long beak that curled into itself. It stared back at him through the window above Newt’s cot and flew away quickly after. 

“I didn’t know you brought all your animals with you.”

Newt sat up in his bed. “I didn’t. Well, not all of them. Just the ones that needed my attention. Bunty’s caring for the rest back home,” said Newt. Jacob nodded, dropping the subject. “Uluras told me to come get ya. Yeah, he says that we’ll be docking soon.” Newt's eyes widened. “Is it noon already?”

“Fifteen minutes after,” Jacob told him. “Sorry I didn't come to get you sooner, but I was late waking up myself. That wine can really put you out.” He chuckled as he rubbed his aching belly. Newt stood to his feet and walked to his work station. He pulled a small black box from a drawer and opened it. Inside was an assortment of small potion bottles. Some were filled with liquid, others with herbs, and one with something that moved. Jacob scrunched his nose in disgust. 

Newt picked up a couple of bottles, carefully reading the labels before finding the one he was searching for. He held it in his hand as he placed the lid back onto the box and stuffed it back into the drawer. He walked back to Jacob and held out the bottle filled with an herb that looked like plant roots. “Chew on these. They’ll help your stomach settle.” Jacob took the bottle kindly and without question. “Thanks.”

Newt flashed him a small smile before brushing past to climb up the ladder. Stepping from his case, Newt helped his friend by taking his hand and pulling him out. The two men quickly packed their things, ensuring everything was in order before ascending to the deck. 

The sun hung high in the air. The call of seagulls accompanied the musicality of wind rippling the sails and waves crashing into the ship. The pesky birds circled the masts in hopes of finding food, or perhaps they just wanted someplace to rest their wings. Either way, their presence was welcomed, for it meant that land was near. 

Newt and Jacob made their way to the ship’s railing. They looked ahead to see the evidence: the costal city of Naples flaunting its beautiful landscape. Jacob smiled, openly expressing his excitement. Wether he was excited to venture to a new land or because he was finally getting off the boat was unclear. Maybe it was a bit of both. When the ship finally docked, Jacob was the first to step off after giving goodbyes to Niris and Uluras. 

The dock was lively with passersby. It was a trading dock meant for the import of magical goods. It was tucked away and hidden by enchantments to mask its presence on the shoreline of an abandoned beach. On the harbor, sellers peddled their goods, high in stock of all the magical goods not native to Italy.

Uluras and Niris stood at the opening to the gangway. Newt, with his head bowed, reached in his coat pocket for the pouch Dumbledore had given him, handing it to the old man. Uluras saw the gold flashing in the pouch and placed his hand over it, pushing it back into Newt’s chest. “Keep your money, Mr. Scamander,” he said. “You’ll be needing it where you’re headed.” Newt nodded. He thanked Uluras and Niris for their kindness and guidance. The young wizard descended down the gangway, joining his friend's side as he assessed his foreign surroundings.  Jacob placed a hand on Newt’s shoulder. “You know what you’re doing?” Newt’s eyes flew up to Uluras, who gave him an encouraging nod. “In a way.”

Jacob turned to look back up at the ship that was already sailing back out to sea. He waved goodbye to the two men onboard. Niris waved his cap down at them and wished them luck on their journey. “Don’t forget to thank Zanj Lanmè!” Uluras yelled. 

The two men waved to the angel carved onto the ship, yelling their thanks. To Newt's amusement and Jacob’s amazement, the wooden angel animated, giving them a soft smile as it waved back. His mouth fell agape as he watched the ship leave. Newt turned from the sea and pushed on, leaving behind a stunned Jacob. “Did you see that?” He asked as he rushed to catch up. 

The harbor reminded Newt of Diagon Alley, though it was considerably smaller. Besides the docks and the street peddlers, there were shops, inns, and a lone pub. Alas, it was not the pub he hoped. Its name did not start with a B, nor did it have a B in it at all. Hanging above the entrance was a metal plaque that read L'amante in bronze lettering underneath an etching of a couple kissing passionately. 

“Want to grab a drink?” Jacob asked upon noticing Newt's gaze set upon the building. 

Newt had no interest in going inside. He wanted to find Reinette as soon as possible. He remembered Uluras’s advice from the night before to ask around. This elusive seer had evidently made a name for herself; at least, that is the impression Uluras gave him. Left on foreign terrain, with no other options, he decided that it was the best place to start. The two men veered to the pub, pushing through the salt-damaged doors. 

Upon entering, they were met with lively music and thunderous cheer. Much like Newt’s case, the pub was bigger on the inside, with many open levels that gave the appearance of a tower. Despite its overawing stature, the room was filled with warmth. It was a pleasant contrast to the cold greyscale of London. The first level of the pub was colored in hues of red, orange, and yellow. Gold glimmered in unexpected and opulent places. The dark, wooded floors vibrated in reaction to the crowd of people dancing close to the stage where a live band played swing music. Scattered around the room were tables and booths, many of which were filled. Along the right side of the establishment was a bar that stretched from either side of the room. Jacob noticed it instantly and headed straight in its direction.

He took a seat on a circular stool. He blew raspberries with his lips and drummed his hands on the, frankly, sticky wood surface as he waited for a bartender. He even peeked over the counter just in case this pub was manned by a house-elf like the speakeasy Tina and Queenie had once taken them to. Newt took a seat next to him, placing his case on the floor by his feet. Not long after, a woman came up to them behind the counter. She had thick, curly brown hair braided down her back and dark olive skin. She wore an orange dress complemented by a gold apron. She grabbed a wet rag from a nook behind the counter and began swabbing the counter. 

“Che cosa vuoi?” She asked, though she was not looking at them. The two men stared blankly, unable to understand. In their silence, she gave in and looked straight at them, suddenly irritated by their presence. “What do you want?” She asked again, this time in English. “Water, please,” Newt answered for the both of them, though Jacob seemed a bit displeased by it.

She immediately grabbed two clear glasses, filling them up with ice as a pitcher of water floated in the air to fill them. She handed them their respective glasses. “So you’re Englishmen?” 

“He’s English. I’m American,” said Jacob. “Though my mom’s mom was Italian.” He said as a matter-of-fact and smiled awkwardly in an attempt to make small conversation. The barmaid, however, couldn’t care less. “Welcome to Napoli,” She said dryly. “What brings you here? It must be important for you to come with the travel ban and all.” The two shifted uncomfortably in their seats, like two children who had just been caught in a lie. “Do not worry,” she assured them. “I will not tell. It is not my business to share.”

Jacob relaxed a little and took a sip of his cold water. Newt was still tensed. “Well,” he began, hesitant. “We are looking for someone. I was told she works in a pub like this one. Perhaps you know her?” The woman shrugged. “Maybe I do. Do you have a name?”

“Reinette.”

She shook her head. “Dispiace. I do not recognize the name.” She said simply, and turned away to help another customer. Newt stopped her before she got too far, still hoping she could help in some way. “You don’t suppose you know anyone who might? She is a seer—”

“A seer you say?” She cut in. Newt nodded. The barmaid looked beyond the two men to a waitress waiting tables on the floor. “Azura!” She called to her. The waitress lifted her head towards the direction of the bar. The bartender waved her over. “Vieni qui per favore.”  The waitress finished serving a couple seated at a table before walking over towards the three of them and standing next to Newt, a bit closer than he’d like. “Che?”

“These men are looking for a seer. You once knew a seer, no? What was her name?” The woman pursed her lips in thought. “Intendi, Reinette?”

“That’s her!” Jacob chimed in. “She said Reinette, right? You said Reinette?”

The waitress, Azura, frowned. “What do you want with Reinette?”

“We were hoping she could tell us that,” said Newt.

She sighed. “If it is a vision you want, she won’t give it to you. She hasn’t seen anyone in years.”

“Still,” Newt insisted. “We must find her. It’s important. Please.”

“Look, whoever sent you led you in the wrong direction. Reinette left for Sicily years ago. That is all I know.”

“Sicily? As in the island? As in an island a hundred miles away from here in the middle of the Mediterranean ocean?” Jacob rubbed the sides of his temple. “That’s just great.” He held his glass up to the barmaid. “I’m gonna need something a little stronger, sweetheart.” She rolled her eyes and reluctantly took his glass.

“Where in Sicily may we ask?” Newt pressed. The waitress thought to herself for a moment.

“Syracuse, I think. I can’t be sure.”

Newt nodded. “Thank you.”

“Prego.” As she left, Jacob downed his newly acquired drink. Newt stood from his seat and shifted around his coat pocket for change and placed it on the counter. Jacob put down his glass. “What, we’re leaving now?” 

“Yes,” said Newt as he lifted his case from the ground and maneuvered his way out of the tavern with Jacob stumbling close behind. “Right now!”

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After the pub, Newt took Jacob from the port into the city. According to Newt, they would have to find another boat that sailed to Sicily. Uluras and the Zanj Lanmè were long gone. They were on their own. 

Italy seemed much livelier than Paris or London in Jacob’s opinion. At least in Naples, the people weren’t afraid of a bit of fun. Jacob followed behind Newt in a distracted stupor, occasionally brushing shoulders with other pedestrians and whirling his head every which-way to take in the sights. He tried his best to keep up with Newt’s long strides but was halted by a young street vendor pushing delicious-smelling pastries in his face.  

“Try, you must try! Best pastries in Napoli!” The young teen pedaled. 

Jacob scrunched his nose. “What is it?”

The curly-haired boy gave Jacob an over-friendly smile and spoke excitedly.  “Panzerotti. It’s meat, cheese, an—”

“Yeah, give me that.” Jacob pulled out two coins and traded them with the boy. He took the pastry and continued down the street as the boy thanked him. The young boy looked down at the two American coins. 

“EHI! Non puoi pagare con questo! Figlio di puttana, mi servono gli lire!” 

Jacob ignored the boy's fast-spilling curses and took a pleasing bite out of his treat. He spotted Newt’s distinctive coat in a small crowd surrounding a man pedaling boat tickets. “Oh, Jacob, there you are. What’s that?”

“Panzerotti,” Jacob said with a mouth full of food. He held the wrapped pastry up to Newt. “Wanna bite?”

Newt looked down at the cheesy, meat-filled delight. “No, I don’t think so.” He turned his head towards the man selling tickets, and Jacob shrugged his shoulders.

“Poi ho i biglietti per la Sicilia, tremila lire ciascuno! Tremila lire a testa per la Sicilia!” 

“That’s Sicily. Yes! Yes, here!” Newt pushed through the crowd to the front with Jacob.

“How many?” Asked the ticket pedlar.

Newt held up two fingers. “Two.”

The man held out his hand. “Six thousand lire.”

Newt tensed. Right. Muggle money. Jacob noticed Newt's hesitation. “What, you ain’t got six thousand lire?” 

The peddler ignored Newt’s struggle and yelled over his head, selling more tickets. Newt fished in his coat pocket and found the pouch Dumbledore had given him. It felt lighter than it was originally. He took it out and opened it, smiling when he saw the contents inside. Conveniently, he pulled from it the aforementioned amount and currency. The man looked down and took the bills, counting them for good measure before trading the two tickets. “It leaves tonight at seven, the red steamship.”

Newt nodded and quickly thanked the man before diving back into the crowd. Jacob followed, taking a last bite of his panzerotti, crumpling the wrapping, and tossing it to the side. “So what, we just gonna stand around for seven hours?” Jacob asked Newt as he swallowed. Newt shrugged. He looked around in search of a place to set up and regroup. 

Jacob sighed. “Well, we should get room or something. I’d like to sleep on a bed that doesn’t rock before I get on another ship.”

Newt and Jacob walked side by side on the street in search of an inn. As they walked, a swell of music increasingly crept closer. Not far ahead, a crowd of people dressed in various shades of blue, green, and white gathered in a large square. It was a jovial communion, as celebrants were dancing, drinking, eating, and performing various other festival-like activities. Newt found himself smiling at the children who scampered by holding hand kites, his eyes catching sight of the rag doll tucked tightly under a little girl’s shoulder—a mermaid. Jacob smiled, too. Looking around, they noticed lots of mermaid iconography decorating the square.

They strolled about the square, hoping to immerse themselves in the festivities they unknowingly integrated themselves in. A small crowd gathered off to the side, mostly children, but some adults stood towards the back and sides. The two foreign beholders kept to the background onlooking a puppet theatre. The children sat entranced on the ground as they watched the puppets. It seemed to a be a fairy tale, some version of the little mermaid. The colorful puppets depicted a prince of sorts on a beach meeting with a mermaid. The children seemed to enjoy it, especially the young girls. 

Jacob turned and saw another group gathering on the opposite end of the square. There was a large circular fountain that enclosed a statue of a mermaid perched on a rock facing the sea. People amassed around and threw various things inside it, mainly coins, but also beads, flowers, and jewelry; essentially any small, pretty thing. Newt followed Jacob's eyeline to the overcrowded fountain. Jacob gently stopped a man as he walked by. “Excuse me? You speak English?” Thankfully, the man nodded. “What are they doing over there?

“They are giving offerings for la principessa sirena,” he explained enthusiastically.

“The mermaid princess.” Newt translates for Jacob.

Jacob speered at Newt from the side. “Yeah, I got that,” he said flatly. 

The man smiled. “Sì, signore. Over a hundred years ago, the king of Naples, Joachim Murat, was drunkenly wandering the cliffs when he stumbled and fell into the sea. He nearly drowned but was saved by a mermaid. The king fell in love and continued to visit la sirena for years after. Soon, they produced a child: la principessa sirena.”

Jacob pursed his lips and blew a low whistle. “Lucky guy.”

The guide laughs and shakes his head. “I would not say he is so lucky,” he says. “Eventually, his queen, Napoleon Bonaparte’s little sister, discovered his adultery, and in a jealous rage, she sent for her brother to avenge her, ordering the king’s lover and child to be killed. By the time the king got wind of the assassination, it was too late. His sirena had been murdered on the very shore he had fallen for her.”

“What happened to the kid?” asked Jacob.

“It is said she was lost to the sea,” he shrugs. “However, many years later, long after the king had died, a fisherman was caught in a storm, and he was swallowed by the waves. The storm was so powerful he should have drowned. When he woke up, he was on the shore, unharmed. He returned to his village and told the townspeople he was saved by a beautiful mermaid. He believed her to be the lost princess, King Joachim’s love child. He built the sculpture in honor of her, and every year on the day he was saved, the people of Naples, Ischia, Procida, and Capri will come here with offerings for love and prosperity.”

Jacob scoffed and nudged Newt with his elbow. “Maybe we should make an offering, huh, Newt?” He jokes. Newt flushed slightly; the fleeting image of Tina swept across his mind and tugged at his heartstrings. Jacob thanked the man, and he walked away. The two men walked towards the fountain.

“What did you think of that?” Asked Jacob.

“Of what?”

“Do you think it’s true?” He pointed his thumb over his shoulder. “What the guy said about the mermaids and what not.”

Newt hummed disapprovingly. “Probably not.”

Jacob furrowed his brows, skeptical. “How come?” 

“Well, there are no merpeople in the Gulf of Naples, let alone the Tyrrhenian Sea.”

“So there are mermaids,” Jacob smiled excitedly.

“Yes, there are many different species of merpeople throughout the world. There are even merpeople that exist in the Great Lakes.”

Jacob’s mouth fell open. “You’re kidding.”

“No, I’m not,” said Newt. 

“Well, why aren't there any here in Naples? Isn’t the Mediterranean, like, the home of mermaids?” Jacob asked as he eyed the supposed mermaid princess. 

“Yes. Naples was once called Partenope, after a siren of Greek mythology. But sirens haven't existed in the Mediterranean for hundreds of years.” New explained.

“What happened to them?”

“It is speculated that they were hunted to extinction.”

“Oh.” Jacob’s shoulders fell slightly. They stood in silence for a moment until Jacob dived into his pocket for two simple coins. He spit on them, much to Newt’s surprise and minor disgust, and shined them with the corner of his vest. He handed one to Newt, who hesitantly took it between his fingers. Jacob closed his eyes for a moment, a wrinkle forming between his brows as the silence between them lingered, then kissed the coin before tossing it into the fountain bowl. 

“I was never a superstitious person. I ain’t never believed in…a higher power or anything before.” Jacob spoke carefully, and Newt could tell that this was something he needed to stay silent for and listen. “My Gran was. Church every Sunday and Wednesday, pray before every meal, before walking out the door, in the morning, and before bed at night. She’d cross her chest if she saw a black cat cross the street, toss salt over her shoulders, hated anything having to do with the number thirteen, and picked up every lucky penny she could find. I thought she was nuts, but y’know, that’s my Gran.”

“Then me and my brother got shipped off to France, and my Grandma snuck rosaries, prayer coins, and a rabbit’s foot— if you can believe it—into our bags. Told us to carry them on us always. Anyway, you think about stuff like that during the war. One day, my brother and I was stuck in a church in France with our group, waiting for reinforcements. We was laying low. We knew they was out there. They knew we was in there. It feels like you’re waiting forever when you’re like that. I was standing by a window that had been poorly boarded up when the light leaking from it cast on the floor. A dirty old franc was sitting heads up on the floor, and it got me thinking of my Gran. ‘She’d pick that up,’ I thought, and it made me smile for the first time in months. So, I bent down and picked it up.” Jacob sighed and swallowed the lump forming in his throat. “Just as my fingers pick up the coin, a bullet flies right over my head and hits my brother in the chest.”

“Jacob… I’m so sorry.” Newt attempts to comfort his lamenting friend. 

“Yeah, I know.” Jacob puts a thankful hand on Newt’s shoulder. He cleared his throat to keep his voice from cracking. “I lost my brother…But picking up that franc got me home. Got me one last year with my Gran before she passed. Made me chase my dream of opening a bakery. Then I met you, my best friend. I learned about a whole new magical world I couldn’t even dream of. And I met the most beautiful, crazy, talented witch who also happens to be the love of my life. Now she’s gone. I don’t know what we’re doing here. I don’t know what’s going on. All I know is I need all the luck I can get to get my girl back. So, sometimes I throw a coin in a fountain and hope that something—God, Fate,” he chuckled and lazily gestured to the statue. “Or a mermaid princess—anything—will listen.”

Newt squeezes Jacob’s shoulder. “She will, Jacob.” 

Jacob forced a smile. He gestured to the coin still in Newt’s hand. “You should too. For Tina.”

Tina. Newt’s nervous system went haywire at the very mention of her name. There was a moment when he and Tina finally connected on a deep level, when their hearts perhaps started to beat at the same rhythm after being off-key for so long. But it seems every time they take a step forward, something happens to push them back, whether it’s a misunderstanding, her work as an auror, the estrangement of a sister, or the loss of an old friend…an old love. 

All Newt wanted was to feel right. Nothing felt right, not in his personal life or the world. Maybe if he finally felt a semblance of understanding and peace, he wouldn't be chasing such frivolous ventures to distract from his perpetual offness. ‘Something right,’ he thought, and he tossed the coin into the fountain. Jacob clapped him on the back, solid and reassuring, pulling him from his thoughts, and the two stepped back onto the cobblestone street in search of a place to rest. 

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“Jacob, wake up.”

Jacob jolts awake as Newt gently shakes his shoulder. It was sunset, and the sky had turned into shades of orange and purple. 

“The ship leaves in an hour. We should head there now.” Newt says as he buttons his vest.

Jacob gives a lethargic nod and groan as he sits up in the bed. They’d found a muggle pub that had beds available upstairs. Newt had commented on it being similar to a wizard pub called The Leaky Cauldron in London. The moment Jacob laid on the bed, sleep took over, and his snores filled the room. Newt wasn’t tired, surprisingly, and stayed awake. He minded his case, giving Jacob and himself deserved silence. Newt had managed to do a considerable amount of work in the gap of time. He was worried about the niffler pups. Wily creatures as they were, prone to sickness were they also. The mother had passed after birth, leaving Teddy too depressed to nurture the litter on his own, the poor sod. Newt and Bunty did their best to nurse them with mooncalf milk, but it isn’t filled with the same antibodies the pups would need to build their immune systems fast. One of the pups had caught a nasty infection that Newt had been treating. Anyone else wouldn’t notice by how adamant she was at chasing around after her littermates. Newt made use of his time to treat and care for her and any other creatures he brought with him. Yet, by the time he’d finished, he wished he had at least tried to rest like Jacob suggested.

“Did you get any sleep?” Jacob asked groggily, noticing the dark circles around Newt’s eyes. 

“I’ll sleep on the ship tonight,” Newt assured, though he convinced no one. Sleep hadn’t been his nightly companion for a while, and it was starting to show. Jacob only hummed in response as he put his jacket over his shoulders. The two walked to the port where the red steamship was boarding passengers to Sicily. Getting there and getting on took about an hour, but once on the ship, they found their cabin and waited for the ship to push off. 

Jacob sat on the bed across from Newt. “So this Dumbledore guy is sending you to Sicily to get a palm reading or something?” Jacob asked after a small moment of silence. “A seer can do a lot more than palm reading, Jacob.” Newt chided. “A seer can prophecy the future. Predict fates. Deliver omens.”

“Like we need any more omens,” Jacob muttered bitterly. 

Newt sighed through his nose. “I don’t know why we’re going to Sicily, Jacob,” he admitted. “I don’t know the seer we’re supposed to find, and I don’t know what she will tell us once we get there…if she’s there… Truth is, I don’t know much of anything anymore, Jacob. I haven’t since—”

“I know,” Jacob said softly. 

“But I couldn’t just sit around feeling sorry for myself anymore. Not while Theseus and Tina are off Merlin knows where…not after Leta...” Newt picked at the skin of his fingernails. It’d become a habit of his, and now his fingers were rough and jagged from frayed hang nails, picked raw and often bleeding. Jacob’s sorrowful expression only made Newt feel more microscopic. How frustrating. “Whatever this is about, I’m sure we’ll know soon. Dumbledore loves being cryptic, but it’s not without reason.” He ended simply. 

Jacob nodded, eyeing his friend closely. He opened his mouth to say something, but a second thought closed his mouth for him. “No matter what, I trust you, Newt,” he said instead. “This Grindelwald…He’s got to be stopped. I’m with you.”

Newt looked up from his hands to see Jacob bearing a comforting smile across his face, one he couldn’t help but return. Just then, they heard the ship’s horn blare. The ship jolted forward, and Jacob rocked back into his bed. He screwed his eyes shut and held on to the metal bars of the bed frame. “Oh, God. Newt, you got anymore of that seasickness potion stuff?” Newt let out a humorous chuff and nodded. He placed his suitcase on the floor between them, opened it, and stepped inside to retrieve the potion for Jacob. 

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Newt sat on the grass of the kelpie enclosure, watching as the magnificent creature swam about freely. A few of the niffler pups were sleeping soundly in his lap. He stroked their fur absentmindedly while deep in thought. He thought mostly about how he’d get to Syracuse. The ship most likely wouldn’t take them directly there and would instead stop on the opposite side of the island. The travel ban made things rather difficult in times like this. It was mildly hilarious that the Ministry lifted his travel ban after his assist in Paris, only for the International Confederation to implement one on the entire wizarding world.

Of course, he understood why. It would ultimately help single out Grindelwald and his acolytes, as they were sure to not stay put in one area for long. Any unauthorized travel would immediately be flagged by aurors to investigate. But Dumbledore, often not in alignment with the wishes of those in power, had his agendas and operations to conduct that would not be executed by the Ministry even if he asked. So, naturally, everything Newt was doing was unsanctioned and, therefore, illegal. Drawing any attention to himself will endanger the mission. There is no doubt the Ministry already knows he’s no longer in England. ‘Theseus definitely knows by now,’ he thought. 

Whenever Theseus got drunk, he’d come by the flat, overly affectionate and smelling of fire whiskey. Newt would make him something to eat while Theseus talked about things he didn’t care about until he finally divulged the latest inner workings of the Ministry and the investigation with Grindelwald. Then he’d get sad about Leta and cry, eventually passing out on his couch. He was happy to be there for his brother the first few times he stumbled up his stoop, but after a while, it just got embarrassingly sad, and it didn’t help with his own melancholy.  Theseus probably tried to visit not long after he and Jacob had already left. Bunty most likely answered the door and gave him the latest update without divulging his whereabouts. Theseus would be upset to be sure, but his loyalty and trust in Dumbledore will keep him and the Ministry out of it until need be. Best not give them a reason to, though.

They could easily track him down if he used certain magic transportation such as apparition; he was, unfortunately, a wizard of interest, thusly under persistent watch. However, he couldn’t apparate to Syracuse even if he wanted to, as he’d never been before. Besides, even if he had, he’d never apparated such a significant distance, and with Jacob in tow, so much could go wrong. He’d hate to be the reason Jacob got splinched or worse. The best way would be through the floo network. It’s hard to track individuals through it. Finding it would be the hardest part. He wasn’t familiar with the network outside of Britain, but if he could find a wizard town, he could find the floo network. A small smile curled the corners of his mouth. Jacob hadn’t used the floo network before. It’d be fun to watch him try it for the first time. 

Rising to his feet, he carefully collected the sleeping niffler pups in his hand and walked them to their den. Teddy was there, lazing about in his hole as he often did since his mate passed. He placed the pups in their respective holes and gave Teddy a soft pet on his back. He knew all too well how he felt. 

He walked back to the shed to sit on his cot. His eyes were heavy from their lack of rest, prominent bags hung underneath his brilliant hazel orbs. He laid on his back, fluffing and tucking the pillow under his head. He stared at the ceiling for a while, still unable to settle his brain. If his mind settled for even a moment, granting him momentary peace, some thought or image would shock his nervous system awake. He tossed and turned, eventually landing on his side facing his workbench. His eyes drifted up to the pictures framed on its surface. One picture was of Tina, a picture she had sent him almost a year ago. She looked brilliant. She had her hair parted to the side and curled. She smiled sweetly, her image swayed awkwardly from side to side, giggling at her own shyness. It’d been a while since he’d sent a letter to her, not that he expected an answer anymore. Partially his fault, he knew. He wasn’t the most engaging pen pal, not lately. 

But beyond his faults, he knew her focus was on the rescue of her sister. He wanted to write. Merlin, did he want to tell her so much, but every time he tried to put quill to paper, he was left with ink blots. His eyes drifted to the picture hanging above Tina’s on the wall. Leta. Newt’s heart ached at her image. Every time he looked at it, he was transported back to the night she died. The tears in her eyes, the scared look on her delicate face, the last words she spoke…

A sudden jolt shook Newt from his thoughts. Dust fell from the ceiling, and the light fixture above him swayed. Newt furrowed his brows. A loud, heavy, crashing sound came from outside the case, and Newt sat up in his cot. An earthquake-like rumble shook the case, sending the beasts inside into a frenzy. Newt’s head whipped around to the workbench as vials, books, and tools started crashing onto the ground. He jumped from his cot to catch Tina’s picture before it fell, only to hear the sound of shattering glass as Leta’s picture slipped from the wall. Newt didn’t have time to bend down to retrieve the photo before the hatch of his case swung open. 

“NEWT!” Jacob sounded frantic and terrified. “NEWT, WE GOT A PROBLEM. GET UP HERE!”

Newt quickly dressed and tucked Tina’s picture frame into his coat pocket. He climbed up the ladder with haste and took Jacob's outstretched hand once he reached the top. Jacob pulled him out of the case and held him by his sleeves. The ship was rocking dangerously. Outside their cabin, an attendant was yelling for passengers to stay calm. A clap of thunder sounded after a near blinding flash of lightning filled the cabin. Rain poured and smacked heavily against the ship's metal, creating a consistent drumming. The ship was smack in the middle of a raging storm, and while the muggle crew tried to keep things calm and orderly, assuring the passengers that everything would be fine, Jacob and Newt knew better because they both could tell it was no ordinary storm. Newt looked out the porthole to see rough seas and black skies. Another flash of lightning and Newt could see the swirling pattern of a magic-made storm in the rolling clouds. 

“I was resting, and the storm came out of nowhere,” said Jacob. “One minute calm seas, the next I’m hearin’ buckets of rain and thunder—the ship rocked so hard I fell out of the bed!”

Newt quickly packed up his case and opened the cabin door, jumping back when an attendant rushed by him in a panic. The young man looked over his shoulder at Newt. “Please, remain in your cabin! Everything is fine!” He ordered, though he was less than convincing. He didn't check to ensure Newt went back inside before running off and disappearing around the corner. Wand in hand, Newt started in the opposite direction, towards the front of the ship. Jacob followed close behind, nearly tripping up the steps attempting to follow Newt’s gazelle-like strides. 

The two men could barely keep their eyes open once on deck. The wind howled like a banshee in their ears. Their clothes were drenched within seconds, and the barren deck floors were practically flooded with water. “WHAT IS THIS NEWT?” Jacob yelled over the sound of puffing wind and rain. Newt looked around, searching as best he could through squinted eyes for the source of the storm. “IT’S GRINDELWALD!” Newt shouted. “SOMETHING MUST’VE HAPPENED. HE KNOWS WE’RE HERE, HE’S SENT THEM TO STOP US!”

“WHO?”

One by one, members of The Alliance apparated onto the deck, surrounding them. 

“Them…” said Newt darkly.

“A bit far from home, no, Mr. Scamander?” One of the acolytes taunted. Newt recognized him from Paris.

“Give us the case, and we’ll be on our way!” A dark witch laughed.

Newt clutched his case tightly and hid it behind his legs, protectively raising his wand. His case? Why on Earth would they want his case? “The relic is all we want. Give it to us, and we’ll leave you and your muggle pet alone.” Jacob glared at the wizard who bestowed the offensive moniker. Newt furrowed his brows but kept his mouth shut. 

“HEY!”

Several heads turn to look at one of the crewmen perched behind the bannister of the second level. He peered down at them and flailed his arms about. “CHE DIAVOLO STAI FACENDO? GET BACK INSIDE!”

“AVADA KEDAVRA!” 

A green beam shot from one of the acolyte’s wand and struck the crewman in the chest. His body fell limp instantly, robbed of life. His limp form fell over the railing and onto the lower deck floor with a horrendous thud. His limbs sprawled out like a rag doll. Jacob yelled in horror as he stared at the corpse only a few feet away from him. Newt retaliated, casting a disarming spell and sending the dark wizard’s wand flying. Probably not the best idea. 

A flurry of light from cast spells bombarded Newt, who protected himself and Jacob with a shield. As Newt blocked dark spells, a wizard apparated between him and Jacob, taking a bold dive for his case. Newt evaded them and took a page out of Jacob’s defensive tactics; he swung the heavy leather case high enough to strike it across their face. The pilferer fell to the floor hard with a splash. Newt took Jacob’s hand and pulled him along as he ran back towards the cabins. Jacob ducked down as Newt expertly blocked every spell that came their way. Seven against one, and Newt was holding his own well enough to keep them both alive. A witch with stringy brown hair cackled and pointed her wand high. The sky above them roared with thunder, and a bolt of lightning shot down to her wand. She redirected the lighting and struck the ground with it in Newt’s path. The lighting missed him by an inch, singeing the ends of his curls. The impact sent him flying to the ground and had him lose his grip on both Jacob and the case, dispersing them both away from him. 

Jacob slid backward into a bench. The case slid a few feet away, halfway between himself and the brown-haired witch. Seeing an opportunity, the witch cast a summoning spell, pulling the case towards her. Newt acted quickly, his instincts acting faster than his brain could catch up. With a flick of his wand, he cast a spell that seized control of the toiling ship. 

“JACOB, HOLD ON!” He warned his defenseless friend. Jacob heeded his words and found the leg of the bench bolted to the floor. He closed his eyes and hooked his arm around it tightly, muttering a silent prayer. 

The ship was already treading rocky seas due to the storm, but with Newt’s spell, the waves reached new heights. A large wave formed at his command and pushed the ship sideways, causing it to tilt steeply. One by one, the black-clad wizards lost their balance, falling hard and sliding across the slick floor beneath them. The witch lost her footing and focus, crashing to the ground and hitting her jaw hard on the ground as she slipped forward, unable to brace herself properly. As Newt's body slid backwards, the case started sliding at speed down to the ship's railing. He angled his body in a way to slide towards his case. 

He outstretched his hand and braced himself. “ACCIO!” He summoned the case swiftly into his hand.

Using his wand, he held it like a stake and used a spell to fix it to the floor. It fused to the wood floor, and his tight grip around it kept him from sliding further as the ship continued to tilt. A few of the wizards slid by him, struggling to keep themselves from slipping. One had used a spell to fuse their feet to the floorboards and tried holding their comrade's hand to keep them from falling. But their hands were too slick from the rain, and eventually, they let go of each other’s grip, sending the unfortunate one sliding down to the ship’s railing. He scrambled for something to get a hold of, but ultimately failed, and Newt watched as he flew by him and off the side of the ship into the raging water. 

Newt looked around until his eyes fell on Jacob, who had managed to stay on board. As the ship started to tilt back into its centered position, Newt began crawling towards him. Some stray spells were cast at him as he army crawled, but each one missed, scorching the floor around him. When he reached Jacob, he grabbed the fabric of his coat in instantly apparated them back into the halls of the ship. Their bodies fell onto the floor of the hall in a wet heap. 

Inside was pandemonium. Below deck, the passengers and crewmen of the ship were running around like chickens without heads. People rushed and pushed past Newt and Jacob, completely unaware of their sudden appearance in the hall. They yelled and screamed, rushing in and out of cabins with cases and life vests. The crewmen were attempting to urge them back inside, but the passengers were adamant on securing life vests and escaping up to lifeboats in a panic. Newt helped Jacob up to his feet and held his arm while dragging him through the bustling halls. 

A familiar swishing sound came from behind them, and they whirled their heads to see one of the acolytes apparate into the hall. Jacob spilled a curse from his mouth as the acolyte spotted them through the chaos. “Go, go, go, GO!” He rushed, pushing Newt forward and following quickly behind. 

They rounded the corner, pushing past scrambling persons and searching for a way out. The ship rocked dangerously, and the lights flickered in regular intervals. Behind them, the acolyte stalked them, evading and pushing anyone who got in his way. Eventually, another joined him, appearing seemingly out of nowhere. “Where’re we going, Newt?” Jacob asked, his voice wavering in fear.

Newt didn’t answer, his focus solely on his surroundings as he searched for some quick exit. Ahead at the end of the hall, he caught sight of a door to their right, a staff door to be sure, that led to the boilers. Picking up the pace, Newt headed for the boiler. Behind them, the frustrated acolytes got bombarded by a frantic passenger. He came up to one of them and tried to pull them back towards the front of the ship, yelling in Italian. The poor man was cast with the killing curse, his body falling limp on top of the acolyte. Jacob watched in horror as he kept behind Newt. The acolyte threw the man's heavy body to the ground and started in a jog after them. “Newt!” Jacob warned, and Newt looked back to see their trackers rushing for them. 

The two men started in a sprint down the hall. An offensive spell hit above their head, setting off sprinkles inside the hall. Newt pointed his wand in no particular direction over his shoulder, pushing one of the acolytes back several feet. He pressed down on Jacob’s shoulder, helping him duck under another spell that set the light fixture aflame. Catching an idea, Newt cast a spell to break the lights in the hall. One by one, the lights sparked and burst, darkening the hall until it was completely black. They used the cover of the dark to rush behind the staff door, and Newt cast a spell to keep it locked. The steel door protected them from the offensive cast propelled at it, and after a few rattling bangs, the spells stopped. Jacob breathed out a sigh of relief and clutched his beating chest. 

“Newt,” Jacob called between heavy breaths.

“Yes?” Newt answered through his own labored inhales.

“Don’t ever invite me on vacation again.”

Newt let out an airy chuckle and nodded. He rested his head against the cool steel door and stood still to catch his breath. Jacob took in their dark surroundings, loosening his wet collar that stuck to his damp skin. It was warmer in this hall of the ship than the rest. 

“So what now?” Jacob asked helplessly. 

Newt swallowed and opened his eyes. There was a ladder that descended down deeper into the ship. He jutted his head in its direction for Jacob to see. “Down.”

He and Jacob walked to the ladder and descended several feet. Their feet planted on a metal walkway. Newt leads, following the signs that lead to the boiler room. Newt knew they couldn’t hide in the ship forever, not with six acolytes after them. He just needed time to think of a way out of this. Should he keep fighting? No. He’d be putting the people on the ship in even more danger. The muggles shouldn’t have to suffer anymore because of him. The heat of the boiler room increased the deeper they went. When they reached the furnaces, the water on their skin evaporated and was replaced with sweat. Newt clenched his jaw. Somehow, Grindelwald and his acolytes knew where he was. He needed to figure out how to get him and Jacob safely off the ship in a way they couldn't track him. 

Apparition was out of the question. He was too far from anything familiar, and he barely knew the surroundings and locations of Naples to apparate back without risking splinching. Newt squeezed the handle of his suitcase. He could only think of one way out, and it was mad. Jacob wasn’t going to like it. Not one bit.

They needed to get to the deck again. If they could hide in the chaos, the acolytes wouldn’t be able to find them, and they could escape unnoticed. By the time they realize they have escaped, it would be too late. The back of the ship would be best. There’d be fewer muggles as most of them would be arguing amongst themselves on the main deck where the greater portion of the lifeboats resided. Newt followed the signs that read ‘aft’.

Just over half a hundred men were yelling and rushing in the boiler room; they hardly noticed Newt and Jacob as they pushed through. One worker grabbed Newt by the arm and started yelling at him in Italian whilst pointing back towards the front of the ship, no doubt urging them to get out of their way and back to the passengers’ cabins. Newt apologized, ignoring his instructions and freeing himself from his grip to continue toward the back of the ship. He could see the exit up when a dark, cloaked figure emerged from behind one of the furnaces. Newt stopped in his tracks and held out an arm to block Jacob. Flanking them on either side were two others similarly uniformed assailants. More of the boiler room workers noticed and surrounded them at this point. They were all yelling at them to leave, frustrated and cursing in both English and Italian, only to be ignored.

Newt’s eyes trailed down at the wand in the acolyte's hand ahead of him. He stood still, waiting to see who would make the first move, keeping the others in his periphery, ready to catch and retaliate against any sudden movement. It was the witch to his left that moved first. She cast a spell at him, but he dove for the ground just in time, pulling Jacob down with him. The cast flew over their heads and hit the wizard on their right, sending him flying into a wall of scorching pipes. He let out a blood-curdling scream. The workers, terrified, fled the area, climbing up stairs and ladders to the upper decks.

“Expelliarmus!” Newt sent the witch’s wand flying into one of the open furnaces. A raging fire exploded in the furnace, and Newt used his arms to protect his face from the heat of the flames. The flames flashed various colors as the magical item sparked and burned to ash.

“NO!” Screamed the powerless witch. She furiously started for Newt, sprinting with her arms outstretched to grab him. He leapt to his feet and pointed his wand to a nearby mound of coal. He quickly cast a charm to send them flying in her direction. She attempted to evade them but stopped in her tracks as hundreds of coal rocks pelted her at high speed. She shrieked and covered her face as she stumbled backward, eventually turning on her heels to run off and hide away. 

“NEWT!” Jacob yelled.

Suddenly, a feeling like a graphorn charging and bunting him in the stomach sent him flying back. He slid back a ways on the floor, and his mouth opened to expel a silent scream. The air had been completely knocked from his lungs, and he rolled over on his side in pain. He had a firm enough grip on his case to keep it by his side. Jacob ran towards Newt, but he only made it a few paces before he felt something pulling him back. The acolyte used a spell to summon Jacob to him. 

Jacob shouted to Newt for help, doing his best to fight against this spell, but it was like being pulled back by an automobile heading in the opposite direction. His feet slipped from under him, and his body dragged along the floor towards the pale-skinned dark wizard.

Newt gulped for breath and used all his strength to grab his case and get back on his feet. Once he managed to stand somewhat upright, he faced the acolyte, who now had Jacob in his grip, wand to throat. 

“Give me the case,” he instructed. “Or your filthy muggle pet dies.”

“Newt,” Jacob’s wavering voice called out. “I know you love your creatures and all, but maybe this one time you could do what the crazy guy says, please?”

“Shut up!” The acolyte seethed. He eye’d Newt dangerously. “The case, now!”

Newt lifted his hands up in surrender. He slowly rose to his feet, slightly hunched over due to the pain in his back and side. He eyed Jacob, who struggled against the acolyte’s hold. Jacob met Newt’s eyes, and he could read by the look of them that he had a plan, which did not ease his nerves. Newt gave Jacob a barely noticeable nod and darted his eyes to the left. Jacob sighed and closed his, thinking a silent prayer.

Using his foot, Newt pushes his case across the room towards the acolyte. Jacob, with all his strength, broke free from his grasp and dove to the right behind a furnace. The acolyte, satisfied, bent down to open the case. Once the lid reared back, he looked into the cavernous hole in bewildered shock. Not a moment later, a flurry of yellow, orange, and red burst from inside the case. An avian creature, similar to that of a phoenix, let out a unique screech as it circled the area. It was a large creature with a beautiful, flaming wingspan and glowing plumage. A firebird. The acolyte stepped back, and Newt pursed his lips to blow a melodic whistle. The firebird responded, mimicking the notes with his song, and dove for the acolyte. He retaliated, sending a series of attacks at the creature. The firebird, however, was swift and agile, dodging each spell. Newt then used his wand to cast a restraining spell on the acolyte, stiffening his arms at his sides. The firebird began swirling around the struggling dark wizard, and a funnel of flames emitted from its wings, encasing him. He screamed in horror, unable to escape his fiery death as the firebird quickly incinerated him in its golden flames. 

Jacob watched, awestruck, feeling the intense heat of the tornado-like flames. A bright flare of light had both him and Newt shielding their eyes, and then—nothing. The acolyte’s screams stopped, and the heat died down. They uncovered their eyes to see the firebird descend upon a pile of ash that was once a person. The creature innocently cawed in Newt’s direction as it nestled in the ashes. 

Newt rushed to his case and the bird. “Good boy,” he cooed as he stroked under the firebird’s beak with his finger. “Back in you go.”

The firebird obediently flapped its wings and flew into the air, circling a few times before barrel-diving into the case. Newt closed the case and locked it, taking it by the handle and rushing to Jacob.

“Jacob, I’m so sorry. Are you alright?” He asked as he helped him to his feet.

Jacob, dazed, looked past Newt and down to the pile of ash on the floor. “You’re a little scary, you know that?”

Newt chuckled humorlessly. “Come on, let’s go.”

The two men headed towards the boiler room exit. The inside of the ship was practically barren. A few muggles littered the halls or kept themselves locked in their cabins, but the majority had escaped to the deck. They managed to get to the back of the ship undetected, once again opening a steel door to step into the storm. They trudged to ships the railing and gripped it tight to keep steady. Newt looked over the railing down to the black abyss below. He could hear the angry seawaters lapping at the sides of the ship, and for a second, he hesitated executing his mad plan. Jacob, concerned by the expression on Newt’s face and the fact that he was looking so intently at the water below, spoke up. “Newt? What are you planning?” He asked, afraid to hear the answer that might confirm his fears. 

Newt turned to Jacob, a sorry look in his eyes. “Do you trust me?”

Jacob furrowed his brows. “Well, now I’m not so sure!”

Ignoring Jacob’s doubt, Newt stepped several paces back, set his case down, and opened it. From it, he summoned the kelpie. The great creature leapt from the bag and onto the deck, taking its favorite form of a horse. Jacob shook his head disapprovingly. “Oh, no. Newt, no!”

“Jacob, this is the only way we get out of this,” Newt implored. “The kelpie is extremely fast and adaptable; it will carry us away safely.”

The kelpie chuffed and stomped a hoof on the floor. Reluctantly and with mutters of protest, Jacob cautiously made his way to the kelpie and, with Newt’s help, managed to climb on its back. Newt went back to close the case and returned to hand it to Jacob. As Jacob took the case, his eyes drifted behind Newt and grew wide. 

“NEWT, LOOK OUT!”

Newt managed to step out of the way as a stray spell hit the kelpie on its backside. It reared on its hind legs and squealed, starting at full speed toward the ship's railing.

“JACOB, HOLD ON!” Newt called out. Jacob wrapped his arms around the kelpies vines. He screamed Newt’s name as the beast jumped over the railing like a hurdle and down towards the sea. Turning around, Newt met the enclosing wall of the remaining acolytes. They wasted no time attacking him with spells. Newt, ever the defensive, blocked and dodged most of them, occasionally redirecting spells back at them. He successfully pushed one overboard after redirecting their spell, and another he managed to use a freezing charm to encase another acolyte’s legs inside solid blocks of ice stuck to the floorboards. Desperate, a witch called down a strike of lightning and dragged it across the deck, letting it scorch through the entirety of the ship and setting it aflame. The act caused the ship to rumble and make a terrifying sound. 

The act left them all unstable, and they each fell to the ground. The floor beneath them cracked and split, opening like an egg. Newt pushed himself up by the elbows and watched as the ship tore apart. “No…”

Screams could be heard from the other side of the ship. The muggles cried in horror as the ship lit up in flames and broke beneath them. Several lifeboats had since been deployed, but there was still a significant number left onboard, struggling to get off. The acolytes disapparated one by one, seemingly finished with him. Newt was so distraught by the damage and sounds of people fearing for their lives, he didn’t notice the floor slowly giving away under him. He jumped back into his skin when the jolt of the floor breaking down beneath him made him slide towards the splitting cavern. Flipping onto his stomach, Newt army crawled in the opposite direction. He managed to make it to the side of the ship’s railing when a cable snapped from its rig and writhed about, ultimately hitting Newt in his back. The force of the heavy cable sent Newt hurtling into the sea. 

His body went into shock from the searing pain. He didn’t have the mind or time to brace his body for impact with the thrashing sea below. It was another breathtaking blow when his body hit the water. He took a sharp inhale on impact, filling his lungs with water. Newt choked and struggled for breath while his body descended deep into the sea. He desperately searched for his wand, which had slipped from his grip during the fall. A flash of lightning from above revealed the wand floating down several meters away. With desperate strength, Newt swam as fast as he could to his wand, but the burning of his lungs made it increasingly difficult. He made it only a few feet before he started to lose consciousness. His body went limp. His limbs sprawled about, and his eyes struggled to stay open. The salty water stung his eyes, and the lack of oxygen turned them bloodshot red. 

He felt something slip from his chest. From it floated his picture of Tina. Trying his best, he reached for the picture, hoping to grab it, but his attempts failed. So he watched helplessly as her photo drifted to the bottom of the sea, disappearing into the abyss. Newt closed his eyes, and he quickly realized he was dying. Not the way he’d imagined it would happen. He never presumed to live a long life, not with his life’s purpose being a magizoologist studying many dangerous magical beasts. He thought, perhaps, he would die at the hands of a nundu or a chimera. But drowning in a sea? How uninteresting. 

He was prepared, too tired to fight off death, and welcomed it to take him, when suddenly he felt something swimming around him. It was a large something. Perhaps it was Jacob with his kelpie. But if that were the case, it would not be circling him as much as it was. No. The pattern felt like something was…surveying him. Opening his eyes, Newt was met with nothingness, only the vast and empty sea below. He could feel it, though. Something was watching him. He knew the feeling all too well, the sense of being hunted. 

He struggled to keep his consciousness, wanting a glimpse. Perhaps it was nothing but a simple shark, gaging his weakness and preparing to strike. What did it matter? He thought. He prepared for the strike, or for his consciousness to finally give way, but it never came. Newt gave away his last moments of sentience to peace and let the water comfort him. 

Suddenly, there was no pain, and just when he had welcomed the will to let go, he felt a pair of arms hook underneath his shoulders. He could feel himself being pulled up from the water. A chest, a human chest pressed against his back and powerful strokes propelled their bodies through the sea. Scales. White, iridescent scales on the end of a large fishtail swishing fervently between his legs was the last thing he saw before his vision faded to black.

              ──── ⋅ ⍤ ⋅⊰⋅∘ 〄 ∘⋅⊱⋅ ⍤ ⋅ ────

                                   ❦ 𝘨𝘭𝘰𝘴𝘴𝘢𝘳𝘺                      

             ──── ⋅ ⍤ ⋅⊰⋅∘ 〄 ∘⋅⊱⋅ ⍤ ⋅ ────

[severussnapemylove]

Severus; “I give up. I am so tired.”

Minerva; “Get the emergency supply!”

Albus; *carries in Y/N and places you in front of Severus *

Y/N; *smiles*

Severus; “AND I AM BACK! LET’S GO!”

[unconventional-lawnchair]

Spoiled Brat

Remus Lupin x Fem!Gaunt!Reader

August Taylor Swift

Masterlist

Summary: When your escapism over the summer turns a bit more real, as you fall in love with a half blood your father would never approve of}

Wc- 3642

Cw: Use of {Y/N}, sexual themes and scenes, cussing, }

A/N- This was an idea I have been toying with for a while, this may become a mini-series if you'd like

Taglist- @otterlockholmes

Part two

If it was one thing your parents stuck into your head when you were younger, it was that you, {Y/N} Gaunt, were better than any other witch in your presence. 

‘The Lost Gaunt’ is what they referred to you as. You, and of course, your parents fed into this idea. People were sure they had died out, either from your family's admittedly embarrassing financial status, or from a few choice family members disgracing your blood line with Muggle blood.

It wasn't a secret, your family's blood soaked history and ideals on muggles of any variety. Your father spoke especially lowly of half bloods, saying they were some of the most loathsome and desperate of them all, with parents who tainted their good family names by giving it to scum. 

Very opinionated, that man.

You were much the same when you were younger. Snappy and spoiled, demanded everything and no one ever fought you on it. Even with your family's position with lack of wealth, when your parents came out of hiding as Voldemort started his horrid flock, your father didn't hesitate to join. There was no lack of support from expected places. Every pureblood with half sense wanted to be in the good graces of the heir of Slytherin, even if she didn't attend the school. Little you was treated like an absolute princess. Even receiving a letter from Durmstrang personally, your father opting for the obvious choice, burning your Hogwarts letter before you even read it. 

It made you an absolute terror when you got to the foreign school. Suddenly, you weren't as special as you were in London. Your name still carried a lot of marit, but so did several other students. You learned to keep your mouth shut, to keep your cards to your chest, and eventually, you unlearned everything your parents taught you. You met half bloods there, stronger than you had ever known witches and wizards to be, making close friends with several other open minded purebloods and friendly half bloods. 

Of course, you still had a family name to uphold. You studied and worked your hardest, eventually making it high enough on a social latter that Gaunt no longer mattered, but {Y/N} did. 

You started your rebellious streak in year 4, when your father asked you if you wanted to return home for the summer. It was the first time he gave you the choice, you refused. Instead, you traveled to Muggle London without his knowing. You went with a few friends, half bloods, they wanted to show you where they grew up. Your father would have your head for this. You thought in amusement as you danced through the market and gawked at all the muggle contraptions. You were sure to them you looked absolutely delirious, but you couldn't care less in the moment.

You wandered down the streets with a few girls who had broken off from the group. When you noticed a record store, your friends waved you off, refusing to join when they knew you'd be in there for hours. A boy who fancied you gifted you a small record player, and since then, you had been collecting muggle records at any opportunity. Thank Merlin your father didn't keep track of your spending.

You walked in with your head held high, you already gave off the impression of someone too good to be there, a force of habit. You walked down the aisle and searched the albums, dismissing people who tried to educate you on what was best, mostly men trying to impress you, you figured. Nothing more charming than being spoken down to. Eventually, you made it to some of the older ones, clearly used and used and used again. A soft yellow album caught your eye from the top shelf. Etta Jones? You thought for a moment. You had never seen it before, but the woman on the cover looked beautiful. 

You got on your toes and began to balance on a shelf, struggling to reach the damned record. You have a huff, ready to give in, before you hear a chuckle behind you. Whipping your head around you nearly spun around completely. Then, you saw him. A boy, he looked to be your age, tanned skin with soft pink scars littering his form, with one large one across his face. He had shaggy sandy blonde hair, almost brown, and the cockiest smirk on his face.

You huffed at him and put your hands on your hips, tilting your head at him. “Not very polite, you know. Watching a lady struggle without even an offer of help.” 

His smirk slowly turned to a dazzling smile. “You want my help? You've been blowing past people who've offered you help this whole time.” He remarked and you scoffed.

“Don't be coy. They weren't exactly being truly helpful. Also, no one here is as,” You gestured to him with both hands. “Vertically gifted as you.” 

He laughed at this and you got another flash of his pearly whites. “That so?”

“I only speak the truth.”

“That I see.”

“So will you?”

“Will I what?”

You scoffed with a scandalized look, gesturing to the album. “Help a damsel in distress?” 

He gave a playful hum and put his hands in his jean pockets, leaning forward a bit in his brown jumper that laid over a mustard yellow button up. “I'm not really the princely type, princess.” He teased and you slowly smirked. “I'm more in line with the monster.” 

“Well, kind monster, would you do your princess the kindness of grabbing her this single?” You hummed and he laughed. “My princess?”

“If you behave.” 

He looked you up and down before he walked over and grabbed the record, looking it over and holding it just out of reach as you tried to snatch it away. “What if I don't?”

You huffed and gave up on trying to swipe it, crossing your arms and biting your cheek. “That's not a very gentlemanly thing to do.”

“I'm not a very gentlemanly person.” He gave you a look that had the alarm bells in your head sounding, but you bit your lip and nodded. “Fine then. What would you like in return, hm?”

“Your name.”

“My name?” You huffed and smiled once more. He nodded with a serious look, but a smile tugged at his lips.

“{Y/N}.” You introduced and held your hand out. “You don't need my last name. You'll never have to call me it.” You remarked and his eyebrows raised in delight. “Yeah?”

“Yeah.” You mused as he handed you the record. 

“And your name?”

“Remus. Guess I'll skip the last name too. But please, call me Moony.” He remarked and you nodded. 

“Until next time, Moony.”

“Next time, {Y/N}.”

The summer was absolute bliss. You spent it doing all the things your father hated about muggles. Running in fields and jumping in stray bodies of water, going to parties and drinking until you were sick. You kissed muggle boys, went to underground concerts, and even took enchanted pictures for yourself to keep.

Though, you didn't see that record store boy for the rest of the summer. Not from lack of trying, however, going to the store twice a week to try and snag a glimpse of him. Eventually you gave up and went back to your friends.

The next summer, you did see him again. This time, it was a month in, you were out late at a party, and were waiting for the bus to take you to the flat you had bought under a fake muggle name. Well, you say you bought, in reality you had been taking portions of money from your father and pureblood families that wanted your favor, from the start of the school year, saving up enough to be the spoiled girl you were. 

You were standing under a street lamp, leaning against it as you pulled out a packet of cigarettes. You put it to your lips, just as you did, a voice called over to you. “Need a light?”

You turned to face the boy who seemed to sneak up on you in alarm, before you slowly lit up at the sight of him. He seemed puzzled by your expression before recognition covered his features. “Record store princess.”

“Record store monster.” You cheeked and he walked over, leaning down to cover the end of your smoke from the wind, lighting it with a simple flick. You didn't even think about how you didn't hear the usual metallic click of a lighter, instead, a snap. That was how you lit them anyway. 

“Where have you been, pretty boy?” You asked after a long drag, and he watched you breathe the smoke out of your lungs, eyes lingering on your lips. This made you curl them to give him a better view. “Around.”

“Something caught your eye?”

“Someone.” He muttered and you pulled your bottom lip between your teeth, glancing at the bus station. “I'm heading home, to my flat. Care to make sure your princess gets home safe?” 

He chuckled at the bold offer, rubbing the back of his neck and wetting his lips. There was a pause as he thought about it. “... lead the way.”

That summer was somehow even better than the previous. He spent the night with you, that night, then every single other night. He came and never dreamed of leaving, only gone a handful of days for a few hours at a time for his summer job.

There was this amazing peace, waking up, laying in your stomach, hugging your pillows in your plush massive mess of blankets and pillows, with him. Most of the boys you brought back would be gone in the morning, you preferred it that way, but when you woke up to his arm around your bare back and his nose in the nape of your bruised and bite ridden neck, you couldn't dream of another outcome.

He joked, the second he saw the large canopy bed, about you letting monsters into your private quarters. He seemed to not think so highly of himself, but with every part of your skin he discovered, with every touch and sound he drew from you, he seemed to grow more confident in your situationship. It was dangerous, you knew it, this muggle boy had you wrapped around his finger. Judging by the way he looked at you when you would fall into the clouds of euphoria, he met the same fate.

You had never felt so content, going out and partying, coming home before he did, and spending your nights and afternoons together. With the odd exceptions of a few days out of the months, he was glued to you. Your friends teased you, but for once, you couldn't find it in yourself to be embarrassed. When school came, you had never felt so crushed. You spent the day before lingering in each other's presence without a word. The silence was enough. 

When he brought you to bed, and your skin was pressed to his, his nose to your temple as he whispered sweet words of encouragement and pure infatuation, you were wreathing and gasping in short spouts, you muttered something that drew his rough movements to a stop. You hadn't even realized it, and he noticed how your eyes squished together and you whined with a huff. Fluttering open your eyes, staring up at his knee weakening hazels. He stared at you in silence and you slowly moved to sit up. It clicked to him, you hadn't even realized what you said. You'd never know that those three little words utterly destroyed him. Knowing that tomorrow he would be away from you again. He knew it would be hell.

He huffed and slowly pulled back. He began slowly, taking you in as if he was trying to commit you to memory. Every curve and blemish, every bit of scarred flesh he devoured with an open mouth kiss. You were lost once more to your own ecstasy. 

He wanted to say it back so horribly. 

He wanted you to know he loved you too.

~~~

You spent all of your sixth year waiting for summer, but when it came you dreaded it. Your father told you that you were to move back to London and resume your normal life in preparation for finding you a suitor.

He had promised your mother that he would wait until you were at least 20 to start, but her passing this year it seems he changed his mind. So you returned to business as usual, being enrolled in Hogwarts for your last year of schooling, and being undertaken by the Black’s matriarch, Walaburga, to learn how to be a pureblood witch worth marrying.

Every day she would come to the Gaunt manor, quiz and train you on behaviors and etiquette. You hated those meetings, she was needlessly cruel and fake nice, to the point it was painful for you to watch her try and flatter and build your fathers ego. It made you sick. Soon, but not soon enough, the summer was over and at least you would be at Hogwarts and away from that sour faced woman.

~~

Remus had gone to your flat that summer, he stayed there for a week before he realized you weren't coming home. He hated it. He hated how you didn't tell him where you were, where you were going. There was this silent agreement between the both of you, You never told him where you would be and he never asked, Never exchanged much about your current personal lives, just the past. So if someone was to ask him where you were, he wouldn't have a clue.  You promised him you'd see each other next summer, and that was enough. 

At first his bitterness was winning, he wanted to believe you left without a word because you wanted nothing more than what you were that summer. Deep down, however, he knew. He knew by the way you looked at him in the morning, how you would pull him into the middle of the room in your socks and his shirt, like it was a dress on you, twirling around and slow dancing to that record he got you the first time you met. You always got what you wanted, and Remus knew he was what you wanted. When he left, he set a paper folded up between the door and the wall, a simple but desperate note. He needed you.

So when he got back to Hogwarts, he was a wreck. His friends noticed immediately. When he sat on the train, and looked out the window instead of shoving his nose in a book or teasing the others together.

“Moony, you good man?” James spoke up first after the three shared awkward looks. 

“Yeah dude, you look like a kicked puppy. Or James when Lily isn't looking at him.” Sirius tried to joke, looking through his suitcase before he paused and his eyes widened.

Remus was suddenly filled with dread. “Don't-”

“Let me guess, the cool girl you met last summer didn't show up this time? Told you, muggle girls her age are crazy.” Sirius laughed, not looking up, only to get jabbed harshly in his side with James’ elbow. Sirius hissed and held his side, looking at James with a glare before James flicked his eyes to Remus.

Sirius looked over and saw just how broken up Remus seemed to be about it. He sighed and gave him a pained sympathetic look. Watching as Peter took out a chocolate bar and handed it over to Remus. He muttered a thank you and took it. Sirius sighed and shook his head. “Look, I'm sorry dude. I don't mean it.”

“It's fine.” Remus answered quickly. “I was surprised she even gave me the time of day. I guess I always have that summer. I'll be over it in time, I'm sure she isn't missing me as much, as I'm moping over her, maybe that will help me get over it.”

He tried to believe that. He really did. His words were coming out low, he tried to sound wise but he truly sounded pathetic. He felt pathetic. She was all he could think about. From the train, to the carriages, to the Great Hall. Lily saw him and gave him a pout, he had written to her over the summer about what had happened. He wanted her perspective about what had happened, where he could have gone wrong, and out of the thirty he sent her she responded in kind to all of them. She walked up to him, straight past James which left the tall boy to theatrics. 

“Sirius did she just-” James gasped and clenched his chest.

“She did, James, she did.” Sirius walked up behind him with a smirk.

“Does she love me anymore?” He turned to Sirius and the shorter boy snickered.

“I don't think so, Jamie. I'll always love you, though.” Sirius indulged his theatrics and caught James (totally not with a struggle, totally smooth, Sirius is very strong) and James gasped. “You will, won't you, pads?”

“Always, my love.” Sirius declared his affections and James fanned his face like a swooning Victorian debutante. Lily rolled her eyes so hard she swore they would fall from her face. 

She turned back to Remus who gave her a painful smile. “I left her a note like you suggested.”

“Anything?”

“Nothing.” Remus sighed and she nodded carefully. 

“I'm sure there is more to it, Remus. Don't let it consume you.” Lily tried to reassure him and he sighed again, making James and Sirius catch up as they sat down. 

“Yeah, there are a million girls in the world!” Sirius tried to cheer him up and both Lily and James winced at that.

“None of them are like her.” Remus sighed and Sirius gave an owl-like look and then gave a breath of shock. “... Damn Remus, that much, huh?”

He groaned and hit his head on the table. “I just want to sleep.”

“We could always ditch the sorting ceremony.” Lily tried to nudge him, he seemed to smile at her a bit at the offer. 

“Yeah, but then you'll miss a seventh year being sorted.” Peter piped up and the four of them snapped over to look at him. 

“What? Seventh?” She asked as she looked up at the kids in front of the hall, before she bit her tongue. “Right.. that Gaunt girl every Slytherin is losing their mind over?” 

Sirius choked on his pumpkin juice before he quickly cleared his throat as James patted his back. “Woah mate!”

“Her! My mom was tutoring her all summer. Regulus told me. That girl, trying to be the perfect bride or some shit? Just another spoiled pureblood.” Sirius huffed and Lily gave a faint nod. “I hate to agree, but apparently she's the worst.”

“Of course, she's the Slytherin heir.” Sirius huffed. “Apparently she went to Dumstrung, and you know how awful they are.”

“Ah.” Lily mumbled and her eyes landed on you past the crowd, nudging Remus. “There she is. Oh Merlin, spoiled and pretty? Dangerous combination.”

Remus sighed and looked over as you sat on the chair. His entire body froze. “Ahh! {Y/N} Gaunt! Slytherin!” 

The hat didn't hesitate. You had a calm blank expression you were tutored on all summer. Looking across the students, almost bored. You stood up and dusted off your robes, before you froze up at the sound of your name being shouted across the hall.

Remus didn't think. He saw you and shot up from his seat. Lily looked at him, startled, looking between the two before her eyes widened at the name. Oh Merlin. 

Sirius was bewildered, James was stunned, and Peter hid his face away from the crowds of students who turned to look at Remus. He got a variety of different looks from everyone, but there was a running theme. Who do you think you are? Talking to Gaunt.

“{Y/N}.” He called again, firmer. You looked like a deer in headlights. Staring at him in a stunned silence before one of the girls you met on the train tugged at your sleeve. You glanced at her and by the time you looked back, Remus was rushing across the hall to you. No no no no no.

“Fuck.” You hissed and snatched your sleeve from her. You watched as he closed in on you. You felt every hair on your neck stand up. “Fuck fuck.” You whispered.

You panicked. And you ran. He was stunned and froze on the spot. You ran straight out of the hall. Remus cursed and turned to his friends, then to the professors. Lily tried to stand and bring him back to sit down, but as if he was a wild animal, the movement gave him a rush of adrenaline. What did he do? What did this absolute stupid and love sick fool do? 

He ran after you. The entire hall was silent, even the professors stunned before his head of house yelled at him to sit down. He ignored them, turning the corner out of the hall and dashing down the hall he saw you run down.

The hall was quiet for a moment or two, before Lily spoke up. “I'll make it up to you, Professors!” She shouted back before she ran after the two. 

“Me too!” James shouted and followed after her. 

“I will not!” Sirius laughed and ran after them, Peter looking at the shouting professor before she made eye contact with him. Peter slowly sat up and she gave him a warning glance, before he quickly scrambled after his friends. 

McGonagall could only sigh as Dumbledore stifled a laugh into his sleeve.

[isaacarellanesismyhusband]

to me, you’re… everything

pair: Newt Scamander x reader

summery: Newt showing his love to y/n(she/her)

masterlist | navigation

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Newt Scamander was never one for grand gestures. He wasn’t a man who spoke in sonnets or filled the air with flowery words. But Merlin, if he didn’t adore you with every beat of his kind, gentle heart.

You had known since the moment your eyes met that there was something soft and comforting about him. The way his messy curls fell into his eyes, those brilliant blue-green orbs full of wonder and kindness, and how he carried himself with a quiet grace, like he belonged more with the creatures he tended to than with the world of wizards and witches. You could tell, even then, that this man held worlds inside him—worlds full of magic and mystery, of tenderness and patience. And now, as he moved about your shared home, you were endlessly grateful that you were part of that world too.

Newt had always been thoughtful in the most unexpected ways. He'd leave handwritten notes in the oddest of places, tucked inside your coat pocket or hidden between the pages of a book you hadn’t yet opened. They weren’t grand declarations, but simple, precious things: “I saw a bowtruckle today that reminded me of how strong you are.” Or, “You light up a room more than any Lumos spell ever could.”

Today, however, he was more bashful than usual, and you had a suspicion why. There had been murmurs of something special on the horizon—whispers of a surprise, though Newt was not one to be sneaky for very long. You found him in his usual spot, bent over one of his creatures with a furrowed brow, his hands as gentle as ever as he calmed a fidgety niffler who’d gotten itself into a bit of a tangle.

You smiled, leaning against the doorway, your heart swelling at the sight of him. He had such a soft, unspoken beauty about him. It was in the way his eyes lit up when he looked at you, how his hand would automatically reach out to rest on your lower back when you were near, as though he needed to be close to you, always.

As if sensing your presence, Newt looked up, and when he saw you, a shy smile curled at his lips. “Ah, Y/N,” he murmured, pushing his hair back in that endearing, slightly awkward way of his. “I didn’t hear you come in.”

“I could watch you all day and never get bored,” you teased, stepping forward until you were close enough to feel the warmth of him, close enough to smell the familiar scent of earth and parchment that clung to his clothes.

His cheeks flushed at your words, a delightful shade of pink that made him look even more endearing. “I, uh, I have something for you,” he stammered, shuffling slightly from foot to foot. His hands were suddenly fidgety, and you could tell he was working up the courage to say more. You raised an eyebrow, intrigued. “Oh? What is it?”

Without a word, he led you to his case—the one you knew so well by now—and opened it with a quick flick of his wand. Inside, the usual flurry of magical creatures were going about their business, but it was clear something was different. Something… softer.

It was then you saw it—a delicate little creature with pastel wings fluttering just above the ground, surrounded by flowers that you couldn’t recall being there before. Its eyes sparkled as it twirled in the air, dancing almost, and Newt turned to you, his face glowing with affection.

“I, um,” he began, “I found her a few months ago on one of my trips, and she’s been rather shy. But when I told her about you, she—well, she seemed to perk up. I thought maybe she wanted to meet you.”

Your heart melted. It wasn’t just the creature itself—although it was undeniably one of the most beautiful things you’d ever seen. It was Newt, the way he spoke about you to even the most timid beings, the way he found a way to show his love for you in such a subtle, meaningful way.

Tears pricked at your eyes, and you couldn’t help but laugh softly. “You’re incredible, Newt,” you whispered, moving closer to him until your hand found his. “How do you always manage to make me feel like the most special person in the world?”

He looked down, that bashful smile gracing his lips again, but this time he squeezed your hand, his thumb brushing over your knuckles in that soothing way you’d come to love. “Because you are, Y/N,” he said softly, his voice as gentle as the breeze. “To me, you’re… everything.”

The words were simple, but the sincerity behind them took your breath away. You leaned in and kissed him softly, feeling the warmth of him, the steady beat of his heart against yours. When you pulled back, he rested his forehead against yours, eyes half-closed, a contented smile on his lips.

“I love you, Newt,” you whispered, your voice full of the kind of softness reserved only for moments like this.

His eyes fluttered open, and there was a tenderness in his gaze that made your heart swell. “I love you too, Y/N,” he murmured, his voice barely above a whisper. “More than words can ever say.”

And in that moment, with the magical world swirling around you, and Newt’s hand warm and steady in yours, you knew that you had found the kind of love most people could only dream of—the kind of love that was quiet and constant, full of wonder and care. It wasn’t flashy or loud, but it was real, and it was yours.

And that was all you ever needed.

[weasleyreidstyles]

Serendipity

chapter four

summary: it was only meant to be a purely transactional relationship. he would help her strengthen her abilities in return for her getting his friends out of his father's nasty path. he didn't mean to fall for her, but loving her was the easiest thing in his dark world.

no use of y/n, but your general nickname is Meadow. All characters are aged up to be over 18.

pairings: mattheo riddle x fem!ravenclaw reader; platonic!slytherins x fem!reader; platonic!golden trio x fem!reader

warning(s): fainting, hospitals, talk of dark magic and curses

series masterlist; previous part; next part

Mattheo guided you to an empty carriage with his palm gently grazing the small of your back. If you were in your right state of mind, you'd shove his hand away. Probably.

But at that moment, he was the only person holding you upright. You had no idea what was wrong with you, what this overwhelming feeling was.

It's just the adrenaline, tesoro. It'll pass. Theo had barely spoken to you since school started, not including the few nights you'd been on patrol with him late at night or in Ancient Runes and Transfiguration. Everytime you interacted with Mattheo he seemed to become agitated, as though it wasn't his idea to have his best friend teach you control.

You sat in the far corner of the carriage silently as they deliberated what to do about the necklace that was floating between you all, and for some reason you felt an odd tingling, cold sensation wash over you as it came closer to you.

"Should we take it to Snape? Or straight to Dumbledore?" Zabini asked as he used his wand to rotate the antique, looking at it with distaste. Theo and Mattheo seemed to debate this as Enzo nodded in agreement immediately.

"No we take it to Madame Pomfrey." Pansy injects. "She's going to need to see what cursed Katie. So she knows how to heal her."

"She could've died." you say quietly into the warmth of your scarf. They all turn to stare at you. "The necklace is famously doused with a death curse. Over a few dozen muggles supposedly died instantly when they touched it with their bare hands. Had she not had her gloves on, she would have died."

They look stricken, as if this had not occurred to them at all. The air in the carriage went frigid, suddenly. And not because of the chill.

"All the more reason to get it to Dumbledore." Zabini insists, but you vehemently disagreed.

"No, Pans is right. Madame Pomfrey needs to see the necklace. I doubt she'll be able to treat Katie here, Hogwarts won't have the necessary resources for this sort of thing."

Zabini seemed to think on this and in the end you all agreed; when you reached the Hospital Wing where Katie Bell was writhing helplessly in a bed, you all but collapsed into Mattheo's awaiting arms.

~∞~

You've discovered that fainting is an odd sensation. One moment you felt fine, fine enough to function normally at least, then the next minute everything is a hazy void of nothing.

You wake up in a bed in the hospital wing, Hermione next to you, reading a muggle novel with a furrowed brow. She jolts up when she sees that you're conscious.

"You're awake. I'll get Madame Pomfrey, hold on." And she's off down the aisle of warded beds, back seconds later with the matron in tow.

Madame Pomfrey fusses over you for a moment, asking you all the generic questions, that you answer only with half-truths, before leaving you alone with Hermione once again when you answered sufficiently enough.

"How do you really feel?" your best friend asked, her face full of worry. "Harry and Ron wanted to be here, Ginny too, but they have Quidditch practice."

"I feel like I got hit over the head with a hammer." you say, your voice rough and hoarse. "What even happened? The last thing I remember is walking into the Hospital Wing."

"Nott said you passed out when you came to hand the necklace in. Riddle got you settled into bed and let Madame Pomfrey do her work. But she hasn't said what is implicitly wrong with you." she explained and you stared up at her incredulously.

"But I only fainted? It's not that serious, is it?" your anxiety spikes and, not intentionally, you blocked out Hermione's voice in order to get some answers.

I hear helped me into bed? I could've sworn you don't have a nice bone in your body, guess I was wrong.

You're awake. He sounds surprised...relieved.

Obviously or I wouldn't be communicating with you right now, would I?

Funny. His voice is filled with mirth at your sarcastic response. How do you feel, sweetheart?

Do you want the lie I told so that I could leave the Hospital Wing quicker, or the real answer?

I'd hope that all the time we've spent in each other's presence would warrant the truth, Meadow.

I feel like shit, Mattheo. I don't even know what caused it, I felt fine when we were in the carriage.

Did you? He doesn't believe you.

I mean– I think so, I– My arm doesn't hurt as much. Do you think that has something to do with it?

Maybe. Is Granger still with you?

Yes, why?

No reason.

Mattheo?

He doesn't give you a response.

Hermione is snapping her fingers in your face and calling your name as if she'd been doing it for a hot minute.

"Are you sure you're alright?" she asks, concern written all over your face.

"You know, I feel a little fatigued, I might try and sleep it off." you feel like the worst person in the world for lying to your best friend, but you want answers, and Mattheo seemed like the only person who would be brutally honest with you.

"Alright. I'll come back tomorrow with the others if you're still here after lessons are over." she smiles at you and guilt eats away at your chest.

"Thank you for staying with me, Mione." She squeezes your hand affectionately before she stands up and leaves you alone.

~∞~

Half an hour later it's not Mattheo who comes to visit like you secretly hoped for (but you were denying this to yourself vehemently). Instead Professor Dumbledore walks into the Wing with his usual grace and grandure.

"Good evening, Miss Meadows." he says cheerily as he stands before you bed. "May I sit?"

Bewildered, you nod your head silently.

"There's no need for the confusion," he says, clearly using Occlimency on you. "I see you have a good grasp on your mind. When did you learn to do this?"

"I like to learn new things." you say, brows furrowing at him as he gets comfortable in the plush seat beside your bed. He hums at your answer, rubbing his chin with the fingers of his good hand.

"I believe you experienced something rather....odd this afternoon." he began, his usually twinkling eyes holding an emotion that you could not place. "Can you describe it to me?"

"Um...I guess it started when we got closer to Katie and Leanne-" you start before cutting yourself off. "Actually, how is she? Katie? What happened to her?"

Dumbledore sighs as he answers.

"She was taken to St. Mungo's for treatment. They have far better equipped staff for dealing with dark curses. Poppy does not do that sort of healing."

"But she'll be okay?" you ask.

"She'll live, miraculously." he says before he focuses on you again. "Now back to you, Miss Meadow."

"Right. We were walking down the lanes, behind them and then I think they had stopped walking while they were arguing and it felt like an eery shift in the air. I don't know how else to describe it but then Katie touched the necklace and went up into the air. When she started screaming that's when Matt– Riddle– that's when Riddle and his friends turned up behind us. Enzo and Blaise went to find Hagrid and Ron, Theo and Riddle helped pull her down. I tried to help but when I touched her, my arm started to burn." you can fell the sting like a phantom now that you think about the pain.

"Interesting." he says as he pulls an old signet ring from his deep robe pocket, holding it out for you to take. "Can you tell me what you feel when you touch this, please?"

You do as he says and take the ring into your hands. Twisting it around your fingers, allowing your magic begins to swirl around it before it burns your fingers. You drop it in an instant. That same cold, tingling feeling you felt when Blaise rotated the necklace washed over you right afterward.

"It's cursed?" you asked, looking up at the Headmaster for confirmation, who is staring at you with knowing, inquisitive eyes.

"Something like that, yes." he says, his decaying hand twitches in response.

"Is that why your hand is like...that?" you ask, motioning to the appendage.

"Yes, rather nasty isn't it?" he says, tucking his hand away from your prying eyes. "I'm not sure what it is cursed by, but that is why I have asked Harry to befriend Professor Slughorn. I believe it has something to do with Lord Voldemort and Horis is the key to everything.

He ignores the way you instinctively flinch at the name. But thats when you notice that the ring that is still on your bed, holds the Riddle insignia. Mattheo's family crest.

"Sir, what's wrong with me?" you croak, as you turn the ring in your hands once again, letting your magic wash over it and dropping it into your lap when it zaps you with another stinging burn.

Professor Dumbledore removes the ring from your possession as he answers carefully.

"You're an incredibly smart witch, Miss Meadows." he states. "Professor Snape tells me of your incredible non-verbal abilities, and am I correct in assuming that you are also talented with wandless magic?"

You flush at this. "Yes sir."

"It is no surpise to me that your magic picks up on things that other witches and wizards may not." he says, tilting his head at you. "I believe you would make a good Unspeakable in the future, my dear. Or perhaps a curse breaker."

"What?" you ask, completely muddled by how cryptic he seemed to become. "Why do you say that? Shouldn't I be worried that I can somehow detect dark magic?"

"On the contrary...I believe it will be the most important skill you learn in this life."

With that note, he stands and with a simple goodbye leaves you lying alone in the bed with a thousand thoughts running through your head.

None of them bringing you any closer to a solid answer to the biggest questions you have:

Why the hell can you sense dark magic? Why did it cause your skin to burn? Why did it cause you to lose your grasp on consciousness?

~∞~

aaand the plot thickens...🤭🤭🤭

this was quite short but there will be more mattheo and meadow moments to come in the next one i promise xxx

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