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terra-esperra · 2 years ago

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I Didn’t Know How Much I Wanted You

OminisxSebastianXF!MC FLUFF. Family. F/M/M. Hurt/Comfort. Mild suggestiveness.

Ominis and Sebastian's wife has a surprise instore for them, and it's bigger than any of them could have imagined.

Sequel I Will Always Want You pt 1 Coming Soon I Will Always Want You pt 2

…:::•°✾°•:::……:::•°✾°•:::……:::•°✾°•:::…

Ominis could feel tension in the air around her. She was currently in the kitchen preparing their dinner for the evening while they waited for Sebastian to come home from work.

He had tried asking her if there was anything wrong, or if he could help her with anything, but she would only deny him.

“I’m fine Ominis, I promise,” she would say. But he could smell the smallest whiff of copper, from the blood undoubtedly coming from her biting her lip. A bad habit of hers that she developed when she was nervous or trying to hide something from her husbands.

It hurt him to believe that she was hiding something from him.

He chose to let it go though, and wait for Sebastian to get home to discuss it with him before possibly confronting her. Just because they were married did not mean that he wanted to pry into everything she does. But her tendency to rush ahead into situations first and think of the consequences later is obviously concerning to him.

He just hoped that whatever it was, they would all be able to sort it out. The three of them.

He sat at his desk as he failed to focus on his manuscript. Instead, he concentrated on the sounds of her working in the kitchen. Too consumed with his cloud of stress to continue to work.

“Wow! Something smells amazing!”

Ominis heard the voice of his husband coming home. He went to their wife first, Ominis could hear him giving her a kiss before asking how her day was. Her response was simply that dinner is just about done. The tension was getting stronger, Ominis felt like he was choking. He was so immersed in his own thoughts he didn’t notice Sebastian coming up to him. Not until he felt the strong hand of his husband grabbing his chin, lifting his head up for a searing kiss. Ominis sighed into Sebastian’s mouth, some of his stress alleviated by the feel of Sebastian’s lips upon his.

“What’s going on?” Sebastian whispered against Ominis’ lips after he released him.

Ominis shook his head, brows forward in concern and frustration. “I do not know,” he whispered back, “She won’t tell me anything. Every time I would ask her what was wrong, she would only say nothing and that she was fine. I do believe she’s hiding something.”

Sebastian gave a grunt of agreement.

“She’s been biting her lip again.” Sebastian said. Ominis could tell by the direction of his voice he was now looking towards her back in the kitchen.

“I know.”

Before they could continue, her voice called from the kitchen, letting them know dinner was ready.

Sebastian reached down to grab Ominis’ hand and they walked together to meet their wife at the table. Plates were already prepared for them and waiting for them as they sat down.

Sebastian wasn’t going to take it anymore. “Alright, darling,” Sebastian started, “What is-“

“I’m pregnant.”

Her voice was so soft as she cut Sebastian off that Ominis almost missed it. He felt the air exit his lungs and did not return. That certainly was not one of the possibilities he had thought of, or even would have thought of. Sebastian was just as silent next to him. The fork in his hand dropped to the floor with a loud chime.

Ominis could hear her sniffling. He could smell her tears.

Before his brain could fully process what she told them for him to react, he heard Sebastian shot up from his chair and rush to her. Ominis then could hear the beautiful sound of Sebastian’s laughter and her surprised shriek has he pick her up and spun her all around the room.

Sebastian held their wife’s face in his hands, and he poured all the love he had into a kiss for her, attempting to silence all her doubt her aura gave off.

“Why are you crying Darling?” Sebastian asked as he pulled away, using his thumbs to wipe the tears away from her cheek.

Before she could even answer, Ominis had made his way over to them and pulled her away from Sebastian so he could show her his love as well.

“Is this why you were on edge all day? Did you think we would reject you?” Ominis held her close with his arms around her lower back, his head bent down to rest his forehead against hers. Sebastian moved to be behind her, his arm coming around to embrace the front of her shoulders, while his other wrapped around both his husband and wife to Ominis’ lower back. He sighed in content as he rested his head on top of hers. The love was overflowing.

“N-no,” she cried softly, as she tucked herself under Ominis’ chin and snuggled into him. Tears still continuing down her face despite the boys' comforts. “I just wasn’t sure how the two of you would react. We never really discussed anything like this yet.”

She let out a soft moan when she felt Sebastian bring his head down to kiss and nibble the side of her neck, working on recreating a bruise that had just healed.

“Love, we are together every single night,” his hand making its way down the front of her, brushing against Ominis’ hardening bulge before he started to pull up the skirt of her dress to make access to her heat, “this was an inevitable outcome.”

Her breath hitched in that back of throat as Sebastian’s fingers started to work their magic. Ominis pulled back enough to push his lips upon hers, devouring her moans.

“Ominis, I think she deserves a reward for being such a good little wife, don’t you?” Sebastian whispered from her neck. He knew that tone.

Ominis gave her bottom lip a little nip before answering him, “I do believe you’re right. Come now love.” The two men pulled her into the bedroom.

Dinner was left cold and forgotten.

___

Hours later, his two lovers were fast asleep after their passions, but Ominis laid awake. His fingers tracing lazy patterns on his wife’s stomach, thinking of the life that was growing under her skin. The initial joy of the announcement now was replaced with fear.

“Ominis? Why are you still awake?” He heard Sebastian whisper as he felt his husband weave his fingers into his. They rested their combined hands along her stomach. “You have that look on your face, what is wrong?”

Ominis could hear the concern in Sebastian’s voice, but he was terrified to speak his troubled thoughts out loud.

“Who’s do you think it is?”

“Pardon?”

Ominis felt horrible for even thinking this. “Sebastian, I hope it’s yours. I hope that it's your child that grows within her. I don’t want her giving birth to a Gaunt.”

Sebastian took a sharp inhale of air, shock at what the beautiful man in front of him was saying. “Ominis-”

“I can understand if you’re upset. I know I sound cruel. But I do not want to contribute to the Gaunt line. It’s a family tree that is filled with only pain and terror. I couldn’t bear to continue that line.” The pain of his childhood and the hatred he has for his family was written all over his face for Sebastian to read.

“Ominis…”

“I really don’t want to talk more of this right now. Go bad to sleep Sebastian.”

Sebastian watched as Ominis closed his eyes and snuggled back into the other side of their wife.

“Ominis, we love you. This child is a product of our love for each other. No matter who ‘father’ the child, we will love them and protect them.”

If Ominis heard him, he didn’t give any indication that he did. Sebastian let out a troubled huff before he nestled back into bed himself. He continued to hold Ominis’ hand as he nuzzled his face into his wife’s hair. He was grateful she was not awake to hear Ominis’ confession. He would have to speak to Ominis again about this. Maybe in the morning, or maybe in a couple days. Hopefully he’d come around on his own. Sebastian was aware of the disdain Ominis felt for his family, but he was not going to allow him to let that spread to self-hatred. Not to the point that Ominis would not want to sire any of their children. For now, though, he let sleep take him.

Sebastian was fast asleep by the time a single tear ran now their wife’s face.

___

-months later-

Ominis was the first one to wake up to her painful moans. It had become a common occurrence in the last couple weeks. Their darling’s due date was steadily approaching, and she was becoming increasingly more uncomfortable in her own body as the babe was taking up so much space. She currently was laying on her side facing Sebastian, who started to wake up as well from her discomfortable groans. Ominis felt Sebastian starting to run his hand up and down her arms, trying to give her some comfort. Ominis meanwhile, was laying behind her. This gave him easy access to rub at her lower back. Unfortunately, judging by the sounds coming from her, their attempts to give her some relief were futile.

“Seb, I need to get up.”

The pain in her voice broke Ominis’ heart. He felt useless in this situation. Next thing he knew, the bed had shifted as his husband helped her out of the bed. Ominis sat up and tried to just listen, wondering how he could help them. Ominis could hear her hiss in agony as her feet touched the floor.

“Easy love, I have you. Just lean on me, okay.” Sebastian spoke softly to her, his voice laced with exhaustion. Though he dares not complain, nor would he. Ominis and he never paid any mind that they would spend sleepless nights awake with her as their child grew within her.

“Wa-Wait,” she took a sharp intake of air before another moan of distress left her lips.

“Darling?!” Sebastian cried out as she fell to her knees in pain. One of her hands ripped away from him and held her large belly. Ominis almost wanted to place his hands over his ears to muffle the wail that came from her. Next thing he heard was a splashing sound, like someone had poured water onto the ground.

“Fuck,” She let out faintly, “Boys, the baby is coming.”

“Like right now?” Ominis was not encouraged by the panic in Sebastian’s voice.

She continued to groan in pain, from what Ominis could only assume was from an additional contraction she was having. “Well, not right this second, but pretty soon my love,” another wave on pain consumed her, “Now if you be a dear and send an owl to your sister and Professor Weasley that would be absolutely wonderful, love.”

The relation smacked Sebastian in the face. “Oh right. Right!” He exclaimed as he ran out of the room to prepare an owl.

Ominis was right there in front of her as soon as her dark hair husband ran out in excitement. She signed as she leaned into Ominis’ chest, grateful for the support again. “Ominis, could you prepare a bath for me. A nice warm one, please.”

He planted a kiss on her forehead as he helped her up. “Anything for you my little dove.”

___

She has been screaming for hours now. Anne and Professor Weasley had arrived very quickly after Sebastian had sent the owl out. Both women were asked weeks ago to help with the birth. Their wife wanted to have a home birth rather than going to St. Mungos. Her husbands were nervous about not having a doctor with her for her first delivery, but Anne had been in medical studies since graduation. Additionally, Professor Weasley had all her own children at home, not to mention helped with all her grandchildren’s births as well. She had assured both nervous dads-to-be that everything would be just fine.

Anne had come out of the bedroom a couple of times to the living room where the boys waited for their child to come into the world, giving them updates. She reaffirmed that everything was going normally, and despite the screaming coming from their wife, she was handling everything well.

Nothing Anne could say would ease Ominis and Sebastian’s stress though, not until their child was born and their wife was no longer in pain.

It was nearly dawn when they heard a wail of a baby, taking its first breaths of the world. Ominis could hear the girls laughing in joy mixed in with the child’s cries. Hearing her tear-filled laughter was a welcome change from all the pain.

Sebastian and Ominis waited impatiently on their feet for someone to come out of the bedroom. Finally, after only a few minutes, but what felt like hours, Anne came out of the bedroom. In her arms, a small bundle wrapped up in a blue blanket.

Ominis could hear the joy in Sebastian gasp. Letting his husband take the baby from his sister first, Ominis walked up behind him and placed a hand on his shoulder.

“He looks just like you Sebastian. He might have her nose,” Anne gave an emotional giggle, “But he’s definitely a Sallow.” She said as she carefully placed the child in Sebastian’s arms. Sebastian wasn’t sure when he started crying, but he barely noticed the tears as he glanced down at his son. Their son.

“Ominis,” He turned from his sister to his blonde love behind him, “We have a son.”

Ominis could only smile as he caressed the new baby’s head. He didn’t know he could ever be this happy.

The beautiful moment was interrupted by the scream from their wife.

“Ms. Sallow, get back in here. Appears there’s anything one!” Anne did not waste another movement and ran back to the bedroom.

“What?!” The husbands howled, causing their son to start bawling again. Sebastian brought the child closer and higher to his chest. Instinctually hushing and rocking the child, trying to calm their baby along with his own nerves.

“Twins?” Ominis whispered, turning towards the sounds of Sebastian next to him.

“I’ve heard it could be hereditary, and her stomach was rather big… but I never thought…,” Sebastian trailed off.

Ominis knew this could change everything. Twins brought a whole new risk to the birth. His legs felt weak as he fell onto the couch. He brought his fist to rest against his mouth. Hoping and praying that the second baby would be born without trouble, and his wife’s cries would finally end.

It was only two minutes later the sounds of the second child entering the world filled the home. But Ominis ears did not pick up the cheerful laughter the first child brought to the room upon his birth. Instead, he heard shock filled gasps. He didn’t hear anything else from the other two women in the room, but he did hear his wife’s crying as she try to hush the additional child.

He felt his heart sink to stomach. Could something be wrong with the baby?

Anne had softly opened and closed the door behind her as she approached her brother again.

“What is wrong?” Panic filled Sebastian’s voice.

Anne petted the small head of the little boy in his arms. “Nothing is wrong, but she does want to see you. Give your son to his other father and come with me.”

“What is going on?” Ominis stood up in alarm. He was perplexed why their wife would only wish to see Sebastian.

Anne sighed before taking the baby from Sebastian, nodding her head in the direction to the bedroom. Sebastian hurried in there while Anne came over to hand the boy to Ominis.

Ominis’ emotions where all over the place. He wasn’t sure if he was even fit to hold the infant.

“I don’t… I don’t know how,” the fear was written all over his face, “I don’t want to hurt him.”

“You can’t hurt what you love. Now bring your arms out…yes, just like that,” she helped him curled his arms around his son. She gently grabbed his hand and positioned it to support the baby’s head. She guided him to sit back down on the couch.

“See,” he scoffed at her remark, “Oh you know what I mean. He’s perfectly at ease in your arms. He’s already falling back to sleep.”

Ominis let a small smile while he tried to focus on his son, and not the continued sobs from his wife in the bedroom as Sebastian tried to console her.

“Anne, what is wrong with the second baby,” his stomach was turning, and he felt like he was going to be sick.

“Nothing is wrong with the baby, Omi.” Her voice was not convincing. He held the one in his arms a bit closer.

He was nervous about being a father, but the very thought of anything happening to either of the newborns made his heart want to break.

Just as he was getting comfortable with the boy in his arms, Sebastian finally came out of the bedroom and made his way over to Ominis. His husband took a deep breath before a heavy sigh left his lips. Ominis could hear him running a hand through his hair as he bent down in front of him. Sebastian ran his hands up and down along the sides of Ominis’ thighs before bringing them to a rest on top and gave a comforting grip.

“What is it?” Ominis still did not believe there was nothing wrong with their additional child, based on how his husband and sister-in-law were acting.

Sebastian let out another sigh. He gave Ominis thigh a firm squeeze before starting.

“This is nothing wrong with her, Ominis,” Sebastian said with much emotion, “She is completely healthy, just like her brother. All ten fingers and toes. And a strong pair of lungs.”

“Her? A daughter?”

“Mhmm, she’s perfect.” The smile shined through his voice.

“Then why did our little dove only ask for you, and why is she still crying.” The hurt and confusion were getting too much for him to bear.

He waited for Sebastian to respond. He could tell that his love was trying to find the right words and it was tearing him apart.

“Because Ominis…” Sebastian paused to place a hand on their son’s head, who was sound asleep in Ominis’ arms, “Our son is definitely from my seed. Had he not come from our wife, it would be hard to say he’s even hers. He does have her nose like Anne said, and I pray he will have her beautiful eyes. Besides that, he has my hair, my ears, my chin, my everything. I’m willing to bet the house he’ll have freckles when he gets older as well,” Sebastian explained, making Ominis chuckle at the end.

“Our daughter, though,” Sebastian continued, “has very light hair. She has paler, fairer skin than her brother. She has a faint constellation of beauty marks on the side of her face, just like her father.”

Ominis felt all the air leave his lungs.

“In fact, she is a copy of her father, much like our son is a copy of me,” the hand that still rested against Ominis thigh tighten again, “Our son might’ve come from me, but our daughter came from you Ominis.”

Ominis barely felt the tears streaming down his face in his shock. He barely was able to process anything at all after what Sebastian just told him.

The next thing he knew, Sebastian placed his lips on his. The kiss bringing him back to his husband from wherever his mind had taken him to. Sebastian pulled away before Ominis was able to return the kiss but returned to nuzzle his forehead to his.

“She overheard us that night Ominis. She knows that you did not want to father any of our children. She’s afraid you will reject our daughter. She thinks you will be disappointed.”

Ominis couldn’t control the sobs as his heart shattered. He never wanted his pain to be their pain. Ominis shifted to rub his face in Sebastian’s chest as the man’s arms embraced him.

“I know that night you spoke about your doubts and fears. That you’re afraid of your family’s line. But my love,” Sebastian broke the embrace and brought his hands up to hold Ominis face, “that is absolutely an absurd notion.”

Ominis could feel the pain and love in his voice. He never thought he would ever be the one to create such anguish to the greatest treasures of his life.

“When I asked the both of you to marry me, for us to all be one together, and you accepted my hand and my name, you became a Sallow. Your last name is no longer Gaunt. You are a Sallow. Our wife, our son, and now our daughter as well, we are all Sallow together. We are your family now, Ominis, not them.

“The Gaunt’s do not a hold on you anymore. They will not have any part in our children’s lives. And IF they happened to find out about our daughter and try any of their dark wizardry bullshit, we will set their whole world aflame to protect her.” Sebastian tries to reassure him.

Ominis’ tears were a steady river flowing down his face as he tried to control his sobs. There were too many strong emotions raging around inside for him to handle all at once.

“Are you really going to regret her?” Sebastian didn’t hide the anguish and fear in his voice as he moved his head back to Ominis’.

“NO!” Ominis sobbed, cradling his son just a bit tighter. “N-no, of course not.” He gave up trying to control his tears. Ominis felt Sebastian nod against his forehead.

“I know, I know,” Ominis felt a kiss on top of his hair, “but our wife needs your support right now. Her emotions are uncontrollable- understandably so. All she can think right now is that you do not want the child currently in her arms.”

Ominis was speechless. What could he even say in response to that. He could only nod in agreement to go to their wife.

“Here, take our son.” Ominis stood and gave the infant back to Sebastian before making his way to their bedroom.

He was just about to enter when he heard someone else coming out. Professor Weasley made her way in front him, reaching to hold his hands into hers. “We just finished cleaning up. Though I’m afraid your sensitive nose will still pick up traces of blood, do not be alarmed by that. Your wife is comfortable and with your daughter.” She gave his arms a reassuring squeeze. “Congratulations. Anne and I will see ourselves out.”

Ominis thanked the professor before making his way around her towards the bedroom. He opened the door and walked in without knocking. His heart was breaking all over again at the sound of her sniffling.

“My love,” Ominis softly called out to her. His hand found her legs, running his fingers up her body until he was able to grasp her face, which was damp from her tears.

“I’m sorry O-Ominis.” She was shaking in his hand.

“No, no. None of that.” He hushed her as he brought her head to his chest and held her as tight as he could, minding the baby in her arms. He wanted to meet his daughter properly, but his wife needed his support first. “I am the one who is sorry, my love. My ignorance and foolish beliefs have affected you with such doubts. This was never my intention.”

He bent down to bring his face to hers. “I love you. So very much. Any child created with you between Sebastian and I is a pure blessing. I’m so sorry that I failed to see that in the beginning.” His hand left her face to lightly pat his daughter’s head. He smiled at the touch of her soft hair. “Can I hold her?”

She whimpered out a yes, her tears starting to dry up. His wife lifted their new daughter into his arms. He gently took the small girl in his embrace, more confident with her than he was when he first held her brother. Ominis held his breath as he held his daughter carefully in his arms for a moment. He listened intently to the cute baby noises she was making. After a minute, he felt comfortable enough to support her body and head with his chest and one arm, freeing his other hand to lightly trace the shape of her face. He took his time, memorizing every curve and feature. To his pleasant surprise, he felt her little hand grab ahold of his finger and held on.

A mix of a sob and a laugh escaped his throat. He brought her up closer to his face and nuzzled his nose with hers.

“Hello little one,” he greeted her with a chuckle through his tears that started to leak from his eyes again, “forgive your foolish father. I didn’t know how much I wanted you.” He could hear his wife crying again. “You and your brother are going to be so overwhelmed with love. I would apologize if I was sorry, but I am not. I hope you never get tired of it.” He pressed a kiss to the top of her head before returning to his wife’s side, sitting down next to her on their large bed.

He kept their daughter in one arm, using his free arm to bring her head to rest on his shoulder in his embrace.

“She is prefect.”

His love laughed and nodded into neck. “Are you positive you’re not disappointed.”

“I will spend the rest of my life regretting those dark thoughts for ever coming into my mind. I love her, darling. I love our daughter, I love our son, so much so already. I love you so much. Thank you for bringing them into the world. You are so strong.”

She giggled to him; it was music to his ears. “What about Sebastian?”

He chuckled, “he can have what little love I have spared after the three of you.”

“I’m right here you know.” He heard his husband from the doorway.

“Sebastian,” his wife reached out to him, “come over here. Let us be a family together.”

Family. The three of them have been a family together for years now. But now with the twins, that word has a greater weight to it. And Ominis embraced it wholeheartedly.

Ominis felt the weight of the bed shift with the addition of his husband on the other side of their wife. She took their son from Sebastian, cradling him to her side and she turned back to face Ominis as she laid down. Sebastian curled himself around her back side with his arm coming around to rest on Ominis. Ominis himself sunk down to lay next to her, bringing their daughter to lay next to her brother while still being in his arms.

“Ominis, they can’t sleep with us. We’ll have to move them to the bassinet.”

“I know,” he whispered, not wanting to disturb them, “Just a couple more minutes. I like feeling them near. The two of you can rest, I’ll move them when I ready.”

Her smile couldn’t get any bigger. She raised her head to give him a loving kiss. When she let him go, she turned to Sebastian and gave him a kiss as well. “I love you so much,” she spoke to both of them before shutting her eyes. She would deny sleep no longer.

“And we love you, so much.” Sebastian responded, rubbing his face in her neck before falling asleep.

Ominis almost felt too overwhelmed. The love he had for them and the love he felt returned was more then he could ever hope for growing up. He’s not sure what he ever did to deserve them, but he vowed he would forever be grateful and try to be the best father and husband he could be for them.

“I love all of you. Thank you.”

_______

Yes, it is possible for twins to have different fathers. its called heteropaternal superfecundation. It's very rare, but very possible.

#Ominis Gaunt/Sebastian Sallow/Original Female Character #sebastian sallow #ominis gaunt #sebastian sallow x mc #sebastian sallow x reader #ominis gaunt x reader #ominis gaunt x mc #polyamory #hogwarts legacy

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sunnyrealist · 24 days ago

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Chapter 65: Irises and Yellow Roses

The Sun, the Moon, and All Our Stars

Summary and Details…

Previous Chapter Recap/Context: Everyone has left the Three Broomsticks to give Sebastian and Ominis some privacy to catch up on their own. Ominis explained how he and Anne fell in love, what their marriage was like, and how her health greatly improved over the years. He then recounted the events preceding her sudden death. Anne had become determined to have children to continue the Sallow family line; she didn't wish for it to end in tragedy. Deliberately going against Ominis' wishes, she stopped taking her contraceptive potion on purpose, which resulted in pregnancy. Close to the twins' due date, Anne had a random bout of illness, but they considered it fairly normal and unconcerning, based on her symptoms, and she stubbornly refused to see a Healer. The next morning, Ominis woke up to find her dead beside him. In this chapter, Ominis continues the story and later, Sebastian returns home.

Pairing: 25-year-old, post-Azkaban Sebastian Sallow x 24-year-old Kate Mayflower (my OC), the assistant librarian at Hogwarts

Art Credit: the very talented @giselsann-opencommissions 💛

Content warnings: In general, this is rated 18+, so minors should not read or interact with this story, but this chapter really has nothing I would consider triggering.

The full chapter is available below the cut; it can also be found on AO3 (link is posted below). Please leave some feedback if possible, especially if you like what you read! 🥰

Chapter 65: Irises and Yellow Roses

“Ominis…” Sebastian murmurs, noticing his watery eyes.

“The coroner said that Anne had… experienced a stroke. That she had likely been suffering from something called toxemia,” the blonde man continues somberly. “It supposedly happens to many pregnant women, especially to those pregnant with multiples, and is difficult to detect. We just… thought the symptoms were normal. We were so used to her having bouts of illness like that.” He pauses, wiping at his eyes. “We didn’t realize the severity.”

Sebastian works his jaw. He cannot fathom how something so… mundane could have finished her off, after all she had suffered through. Anne’s refusal to see a Healer was infuriating - and so like her, but he understands that they could never have imagined her suddenly dying overnight with those symptoms. Then, he considers Ominis’ experience.

Waking up to find the love of his life dead without warning.

Expecting to raise a family, only to end up completely alone.

All hopes and dreams dashed.

Sebastian doesn’t even know what to say. He sits quietly, lost in his own pain, as he watches his old friend, his brother-in-law, cry.

“I should have insisted she go to St. Mungo’s,” Ominis mumbles dejectedly. “I want to- to take it all back. Reverse it all. It… it hurts so badly. I’ve lost… everything.”

Carefully choosing his words, Sebastian finally replies, “I understand. My situation… was never the same as yours… but I understand the feeling.” He reaches out to place a handkerchief in Ominis’ hand. “It’s indescribably… horrific. I wouldn’t wish it on anyone. For many years, I wasn’t even sure why I was alive… or that life was even worth living.”

Ominis uses the cloth to dry his cheeks.

“I know this may sound impossible to you right now,” Sebastian continues, “but… things can change. Your life isn’t over. Try to find a reason to go on. The future is… open. It doesn’t have to be miserable forever. Honor Anne…” He trails off, fearful he might only upset Ominis further. How would one even possibly provide comfort in this situation? Sebastian stares at the floor. “Ominis… I want you to know that you aren’t alone. We’re friends, and now, we’re family… I promise - I will help you in any way I can. It’s what Anne would have wanted.”

When Sebastian returns to the cottage that night, he’s exhausted.

Kate kindly left a few candles burning for him, and he stumbles towards the bedroom to find her sitting up and reading in bed by candlelight. Her eyes take him in as he wanders in wordlessly. He undresses slowly, and she waits patiently for him to join her.

Sebastian lets out a sigh as he settles, his head in Kate’s lap. She runs her fingers through his hair, silent for a long while.

Kissing the top of his head sweetly, her lips lingering, she whispers, “Would you like to talk about it?”

He shakes his head, no.

“That’s fine,” she soothingly murmurs. “Let’s go to sleep, love.”

They readjust, and for once, Kate spoons Sebastian. She can tell that he is attempting to hold back tears, but his emotions quickly consume him, and she can feel his stomach contracting as he sobs.

It breaks her heart, and she wishes she could take away whatever pain he’s experiencing. All she can do is hold him tight. This distress keeps her awake until she can hear him breathing deeply, finally asleep.

“I love you,” she whispers, even though he won’t hear.

Kate wakes early the next morning to the sound of Sebastian’s light snoring.

Wishing for him to get much more rest, Kate carefully slips away towards her side of the bed, placing a pillow where her body had been curled against him. She slowly lifts herself up, trying to keep the bed from creaking too loudly. She slips on her deep green, silken robe and gingerly pads across the room to escape into the hallway.

She decides to start breakfast, trying to determine what type of food might be best after last night’s excitement. Kate wonders if Sebastian may have a hangover; she determines that it would be best for him to have a hearty breakfast to soak up the alcohol and replenish his hunger.

When she is just about finished with cooking, she hears footsteps in the hallway. The sound disappears as he closes the bathroom door. Quickly, she plates everything and sets the table.

Sebastian finally wanders into the kitchen a few minutes later, yawning, donning only pyjama trousers. His eyes grow large when he sees that breakfast is completely ready.

“Good morning, darling,” Kate cheerily says in a sing-song voice.

“Good morning, sweetheart,” he echoes in a somewhat groggy tone.

“Sit,” she offers, motioning towards the chair he usually takes. “I’ve made breakfast.”

Sebastian gladly plops down, surveying the offerings.

“I’ve made oatmeal with cinnamon, pecans, apples, and dried cranberries,” she explains. “Breakfast tea is ready. I’ve fried up some tomatoes and sausages. There’s also a bowl of fresh strawberries and blueberries - I’ve just washed them.” She smiles. “But if there is anything else you desire, just say the word. I mean to please you.”

“Gods, no. I already feel spoiled,” he answers gratefully. He lifts her hand, kissing it. “You’re… you’re bloody perfect, Kate. This is incredibly considerate. I love you so much.”

She giggles in response. “And I love you.”

As they tuck into the food, Kate is surprised to hear that Sebastian is not hungover.

He tells Kate everything about his private visit with Ominis. She listens avidly, asking several questions to which Sebastian does not yet know all of the answers.

When he reaches the part in which he and Ominis said goodbye, he hesitantly says, “I need to tell you something. I hope you aren’t angry with me that I’ve not given you much notice, but…” He looks into her blue eyes. “I invited Ominis over for dinner tonight.”

Kate slowly nods, and Sebastian immediately assumes that she is upset. He quickly adds, “You don’t have to cook. I can order a meal, cook something up myself, or just change the plans and go out to dinner in Hogsmeade. And I’ll do everything to prepare the cottage for the evening. Sorry… It’s just… When we went our separate ways, I didn’t feel like we had fully caught up.”

“It’s alright,” Kate replies. “I don’t mind hosting. I don’t mind cooking, either. But yes, you will need to help quite a lot. Perhaps you can help out a bit in the kitchen… and I’ll certainly need you to do some work around the house.” She pauses. “Next time, I would appreciate more notice, though.”

“Of course.” He kisses her cheek. “Thank you.”

Kate’s mind begins to run through the ingredients she has on hand and what might be impressive enough to make for a dinner guest. Knowing that Ominis is blind actually makes her a bit more nervous. She’s read before that when someone loses their eyesight, all other senses are heightened. This means her cooking will need to be especially flavorful. She will need to pull out all the stops.

Ultimately, Ominis will be her brother-in-law, and she aspires more than anything to win his friendship.

Nothing is more important to Kate than family, and Ominis is the only other remaining member of the Sallows. This dinner could hopefully solidify a renewed relationship between Sebastian and Ominis and encourage them to get together more frequently.

Sebastian needs that.

“Well, we’ll need to get to work right away,” Kate says decisively, standing up. “Come on, let’s get dressed.”

Sebastian pouts as he nuzzles his face between Kate’s soft breasts, barely covered by her thin robe. “Do we have to? Do you have to?”

“Sebastian.” She gives him a chastising look. “You’re the one that sprung this on me…”

“Oh, fine,” he mutters with a smirk, allowing himself to be helped up from the table.

The houseplants have all been watered, and windows are open to let in the fresh summer air. Sebastian has tidied up the living room and bathroom, and Kate has busied herself with baking a pie, using preserved apple pie filling. She places it near the window to cool.

“Sebastian!” she calls outside, “Will you be finished soon? I really need those vegetables.”

“Coming,” he shouts back.

Moments later, the front door swings open, and Sebastian enters, carrying a basket filled with freshly harvested vegetables.

“I could be wrong, but I didn’t think the peas looked ready yet,” he informs her. “But I have everything else you requested - the potatoes, carrots, and asparagus.”

“Alright.” She takes the basket from him, inspecting the garden’s yield.

Then, Sebastian reveals a bouquet of flowers he had been hiding behind his back. Kate gasps as she accepts the yellow roses and purple irises, inhaling their scent.

“Lovely,” Kate hums. “Just lovely.”

“I almost cut some of the peonies,” Sebastian mentions, “but these were also ready… and their symbolism… it’s meaningful for tonight.”

Kate nods. “Hmm… the irises… they’re…” Her nose scrunches. “I’m afraid I’ve forgotten. Let me take a look in my book.”

He stops her. “They symbolize hope, faith, and trust in friendship. And the yellow roses - they’re optimism and joy in friendship.”

Kate gives him a lopsided smile. “My clever Seb.”

She turns around, strolling into the kitchen to find a vase. He follows her like a puppy.

“The pie smells fantastic,” Sebastian murmurs as she fills a vase with water. “I wish I could steal a piece right now.”

Kate smiles, carefully arranging the flowers in the vase. “You’ll just have to wait, dear.”

He pulls her hips forward, places his hands on her arms, and leans in with a mischievous grin. “You know patience is not my strong suit.” He kisses her cheek and eyes her up and down. She’s wearing a darker yellow dress, a rather simple one, under a cream-colored, frilly smock. Her hair is half-up, half-down; delicate white flowers are woven into a braid secured around the back of her head. “You look very pretty.”

She goes pink, secretly delighted by the compliment. “I know Ominis can’t see, but I still want to at least look… decent.”

They kiss, and the scent of her floral perfume envelops him in its sweetness.

“You smell like a dream,” Sebastian whispers in her ear. “Flowers and honey… vanilla and cinnamon… so sweet.”

He picks her up, placing her on the counter and going in for more kisses. She gives in, and their lips move together languidly. After a minute, the kisses begin to feel more insistent, and Kate finally pulls back, giggling. She pushes him away playfully, sliding off to stand on her own two feet.

“Alright, Romeo. We have work to do,” she teases him, a smile tugging at her lips.

Kate puts Sebastian to work, asking him to wash the freshly harvested vegetables as she greases and flours a bread pan. She takes a cloth off the top of a bowl, revealing fragrant dough that had been left to rise, which she puts in the pan and then the oven.

Eventually, the two stand side by side to cut the carrots and potatoes. Laughter fills the kitchen as they take turns feeding each other small scraps.

Sebastian stares at Kate for a long time, his eyes filled with deep affection. “Kate…”

“What is it?”

“I… I’m so lucky,” he finishes. “Sometimes I really cannot believe I’m here with you…”

Kate smiles back at him. “You are. You’re home, my love.”

#hogwarts legacy fanfic #hogwarts legacy sebastian #sebastian sallow x oc #post azkaban sebastian #hufflepuff x slytherin #aged up sebastian sallow #hogwarts legacy oc #hl oc #hl sebastian #hogwarts legacy romance #sebastian sallow #hogwarts legacy original character #ominis gaunt #hogwarts legacy ominis #hl ominis #sallow family #the sallows #ominis sallow

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writingsoftarnishedsilver · 8 days ago

Text

Temporary Rivalry | Sebastian Sallow x OC

Summary: In a fierce Gryffindor vs. Slytherin Quidditch match, Evie faces off against her best friend, Sebastian. After both save each other from rough falls, Gryffindor wins. Later, in the Undercroft, Sebastian teases her about her love life.

Words: 7,364

Tags: One Shot, Not Actually Unrequited Love, Original Female Character, Pining, Quidditch, Protective Sebastian Sallow, Fluff, Humor, Banter

AO3 Link

The air was thick with anticipation as Evangeline took her place on the pitch, clutching her broom in one hand and her trusty bat in the other. The air was crisp and full of energy as the Gryffindor and Slytherin teams prepared to face off, the crowd roaring in anticipation. From her spot across the field, Evangeline spotted Sebastian Sallow adjusting his gloves with that infuriatingly cocky grin plastered on his face.

“They're still letting a pixie into the beater’s lineup?” one Slytherin jeered, and a few laughs ripple across the crowd.

Evie rolled her eyes. It wasn’t anything new—people were always surprised to see her there, outfitted in her crimson and gold robes as a beater. At barely five feet tall, with a curvy build that seemed more suited for a friendly library chat than a high-stakes Quidditch match, she hardly matched the image of most seventh-year beaters. Her competition, especially on the Slytherin team, were all upper-year boys, taller, broad-shouldered, and often twice her size. She knew they expected her to be slower, less aggressive, and less effective than her fellow beaters, something she relished using to her advantage. She was quick, agile, and fearless on the field, her small stature an asset when maneuvering around the bigger players who underestimated her.

As she gripped her bat, she caught sight of Sebastian Sallow across the field, already watching her with that trademark smirk plastered on his face. Sebastian—her best friend, her constant sparring partner in every way that mattered, and, as she’d long since realized, the person who could twist her stomach into knots with a single glance. Today, however, he wasn’t just Sebastian; he was Slytherin’s star chaser, the one player Evie was determined to stop at all costs.

“Try not to embarrass yourself out there, Sallow!” she called across the field, raising her bat in challenge, earning a few laughs from the Gryffindor stands.

He turned, eyebrows raised as he scanned the pitch for the source of the voice. When he found her, he broke into a familiar, taunting grin. “You sure you can handle that bat, Sterling? Wouldn’t want you to go and hurt yourself in front of everyone.”

Evie grinned, her eyes sparking with mischief. “I’d be more worried about you, Sebastian. They say Bludgers have a taste for cocky Slytherins.”

The Slytherin chaser snorted, a playful gleam in his eyes. “Keep dreaming, Evie."

Madame Kogawa’s sharp whistle cut through the noise, summoning the team captains to the center of the pitch. Evie’s attention flickered to the two captains as they made their way forward—Imelda Reyes, with her trademark scowl, and Garreth Weasley, who was practically bouncing with excitement.

As Imelda reached the center, she gave Garreth a smirk that dripped with challenge, her eyes narrowing. Garreth only grinned wider, hands on his hips, clearly enjoying the face-off. Evie couldn’t hear their words, but she could guess the exchange was anything but friendly.

“All right, Weasley, Reyes,” Madam Kogawa began, her voice carrying easily across the field. “You both know the rules. Let’s keep it clean this time.” Her gaze flicked meaningfully towards the Slytherin section, where a few students tried to look innocent.

Imelda gave a sly smile. “Oh, we’re always well-behaved, Professor,” she replied with a mock innocence that earned a few chuckles from the Slytherin crowd.

Garreth rolled his eyes, grinning. “Always happy to set a good example for Slytherin to follow,” he quipped, giving Evie a quick thumbs-up from his place in the center.

Sebastian took the opportunity to sidle a bit closer to Evie, his gaze fixed on her with that smug, irritating grin she both loved and despised. “You know, Sterling, this would be a lot easier if you just conceded right now.”

She raised an eyebrow, unbothered by his teasing. “If you’re worried, you could always just stay out of my way. Let’s call it a favour for an old friend.”

He leaned in slightly, his voice low. “Friends? Friends don’t let friends take Bludgers to the face, Evie."

Evie chuckled and tilted her head to glance up at him. Sebastian leaned casually on his broom, his green uniform catching the breeze just enough to billow slightly. His dark hair, windswept and slightly messy, framed his face, emphasizing the sharpness of his jawline and the mischievous glint in his deep brown eyes.

"Well somebody has to knock that smug grin off your face.” she replied smoothly.

The sharp trill of Madam Kogawa’s whistle signaled for them to get in their positions, snapping them both back to attention. With a parting wink, Sebastian took off, soaring into the sky with effortless grace, leaving her to watch his figure against the bright blue sky before snapping herself into focus. She gripped her bat tighter, her resolve setting as she launched into the air, her eyes immediately scanning for the Bludgers.

From the moment the Quaffle was released, the game was a storm of action. Evie quickly found her rhythm, darting around the pitch with surprising agility, her small frame allowing her to maneuver around the larger players. She spotted a Bludger veering dangerously close to Garreth, and with a powerful swing, sent it hurtling away, just grazing the fingertips of a Slytherin chaser who cursed under his breath.

The game continued with each team fighting tooth and nail. Gryffindor scored, then Slytherin, and back and forth the points climbed, the crowd cheering with every goal. Evie was a blur on the pitch, diving and dodging, sending Bludgers toward the Slytherin chasers with controlled fury.

Every so often, her gaze would catch on Sebastian, the two of them exchanging a quick, heated look before they’d break away to focus on their respective plays. The intensity between them was palpable, a fierce undercurrent that drove both of them to play harder, push further, as if they were the only two players on the field.

At one point, Sebastian managed a particularly tricky feint, darting around Garreth and hurtling toward the Gryffindor goalposts. Evie’s heart skipped as she saw the perfect opening, a Bludger rolling her way at just the right angle. Without hesitation, she swung her bat with all her might, sending it careening toward him.

Sebastian glanced up as the Bludger whizzed past him, close enough to ruffle his hair and make him veer sharply off course. He managed to hang onto his broom, but the Quaffle slipped from his grasp, allowing a Gryffindor chaser to swoop in and snatch it up.

The Gryffindor stands erupted in cheers as the chaser scored moments later, giving them a narrow lead.

Sebastian shot her a look, equal parts impressed and exasperated, as he flew by. “Close call, Sterling. Almost had me but you’ve got to try harder than that if you want to take me down."

She arched an eyebrow, her tone daring. “Oh, I intend to.”

As the game wore on, the competition grew fiercer, the tension in the air thicker with each passing minute. Gryffindor’s narrow lead only fueled the Slytherin team’s aggression, and soon the match turned into a veritable battlefield. Bludgers were flying faster and closer, Quaffles exchanged hands with increasing desperation, and players from both teams began crowding one another, pushing the limits of what Madam Kogawa would tolerate.

Evie narrowed her eyes, her focus sharpening as she realized the Slytherin beaters had started aiming more directly at Gryffindor players without the Quaffle. Her fellow beater, a broad shouldered sixth-year named Alan, met her gaze with a nod of shared understanding. They’d have to go all-in to keep their teammates safe.

Her attention snapped to Garreth, who had just intercepted a pass from Sebastian and was now barreling down the field. But a Bludger from a Slytherin beater rocketed toward him, seemingly out of nowhere. Evie dove after it, swinging her bat with precision and sending the Bludger spiraling off course before it could make impact.

“Nice save!” Garreth called, his face flushed with exhilaration.

“Don’t celebrate yet!” she replied, her gaze flicking back to Sebastian, who was maneuvering around her with an almost predatory focus. He caught her watching him and gave her a quick, teasing salute before diving down after the Quaffle, swerving dangerously close to one of the Gryffindor chasers in his path.

Evie clenched her teeth, eyes narrowing. “Oh, it’s like that, is it?” she muttered under her breath. She wasn’t about to let him get away with roughing up her teammates, not without giving him a little taste of his own medicine.

The next time a Bludger came her way, she adjusted her grip and aimed right at Sebastian, who was heading for Gryffindor’s goalposts again, the Quaffle tucked under his arm. She swung hard, sending the Bludger straight toward him. He noticed it at the last second, dodging just in time—but her aim forced him to swerve, and he lost momentum, giving the Gryffindor Keeper just enough time to intercept his shot.

The intensity reached a boiling point when one of the Slytherin chasers, Erwin Stone, tried to pass Evie on his way toward the Quaffle and deliberately elbowed her in the ribs, knocking her off balance. The stands erupted in outrage, a chorus of boos and gasps rolling across the pitch, but all Evie could focus on was the empty air beneath her as her grip slipped, and she wobbled precariously before sliding off the end of her broom.

In the blink of an eye, Gryffindor and Slytherin players clashed in a tangle of brooms and fists. Madam Kogawa’s whistle pierced the chaos, but Evie could hear the unmistakable shouts of her teammates as they launched themselves into the fray.

Meanwhile, Evie gripped the handle with every ounce of strength she had, her heart pounding in her chest as she struggled to pull herself back up. But her ribs were throbbing from the Slytherin chaser’s elbow, and the strain of holding on was beginning to burn through her arms.

Down on the field, things had quickly devolved. Alan had already launched himself toward the offending Slytherin chaser, yelling something that was quickly lost in the uproar. Other players from both teams swooped in, turning what had been a heated match into a full-on skirmish.

She caught sight of Garreth and Imelda mid-air, shouting at each other as they circled one another like hawks. The Gryffindors and Slytherins seemed to split into factions, each ready to defend their own. Sebastian, however, had broken from the fray, his gaze fixed on Evie, his expression shifting from irritation to worry the moment he saw her struggling to pull herself up.

He swooped in, closing the distance in seconds, his voice sharp and urgent. “Evie, hold on!”

“I’m trying!” she gasped, gritting her teeth as she tried to swing her leg back over the broom. Her fingers were slipping, and the ground seemed a terrifying distance below. The bludger she’d deflected moments ago was now spiraling dangerously close to her as well, its trajectory unpredictable amidst the chaos on the field.

“Don’t you dare let go,” Sebastian growled, reaching her just in time. He wrapped an arm around her waist, holding her securely as he helped her swing her leg back over her broom. She clung to him, momentarily frozen as she regained her balance, her breathing ragged.

“Got you,” he murmured, his voice low, his eyes scanning her face to make sure she was okay. “Are you hurt?”

Evie felt a flush creep up her cheeks, her heart still racing from the near-fall—and from the way his arm lingered around her waist, his touch warm and grounding. She swallowed, giving him a shaky grin. “Just a bruised rib or two."

He huffed, his face a mixture of relief and exasperation. “Merlin’s sake, nearly scared me half to death.”

Evangeline scoffed, gingerly rubbing her side where the chaser had jabbed her. "Blame your teammate for playing dirty, not me," she shot back, though her voice was softened by the gratitude that lingered behind her words.

Sebastian’s expression darkened as he glanced down at the pitch, his expression hardening as he took in the ongoing brawl between their teammates. Alan had managed to land a particularly solid shove on the Slytherin chaser who’d elbowed her, while Garreth and Imelda were practically nose-to-nose, shouting so loudly that their voices echoed across the stadium.

“That elbow was completely out of line." Sebastian muttered, his jaw clenched, "If Alan doesn't break Stone's nose, I will."

“Sebastian, you’re not seriously going to fight your own teammate, are you?” she asked, half-amused, half-concerned.

He didn’t take his eyes off Erwin. “For you? Absolutely.”

Her heart did a strange flip at his words, warmth blossoming in her chest. She fought to keep a smirk from forming on her lips.

Madam Kogawa’s sharp, furious whistle blasted through the chaos once more, breaking the moment. Everyone paused mid-action as the sound echoed across the pitch, and one by one, the players halted their scuffles, each of them reluctantly drifting back to hover in place, panting and scowling.

“That’s quite enough!” she barked, her voice carrying effortlessly across the pitch. “I will not tolerate another display like this. If anyone so much as looks at another player the wrong way, you’ll be sitting in detention for the rest of term!”

The crowd’s jeers and laughter died down, and the players exchanged a series of sheepish glances, adrenaline gradually ebbing. Evie adjusted her grip on her broom, giving Sebastian a sidelong glance as he hovered beside her.

“Thanks for the save,” she murmured, her voice just loud enough for him to hear.

He tilted his head, his expression softening as he gave her a small, genuine smile. “Anytime.”

Before she could respond, the whistle blew again, signaling the restart of the game. Evie took a deep breath, feeling the lingering ache in her ribs but determined to finish the match strong. She shot Sebastian one last look, her eyes glinting with renewed determination. “Back to being enemies, then?”

His smirk returned, and he gave her a mock salute. “Only for as long as this game lasts.”

The Quaffle was released once more, and both teams surged forward, their focus honed on victory. Evie’s ribs protested with each movement, but she pushed through the discomfort, her eyes darting around the pitch as she sought her next target.

As the minutes ticked by, the game’s intensity returned with full force. With Gryffindor holding a narrow lead and the Snitch still nowhere to be seen, every player was on edge, pushing themselves to the limit. Sebastian darted past her again, this time without a taunt or wink, his focus absolute as he lined up his shot on the Gryffindor goalposts.

Evie felt a surge of pride and frustration as she watched him—pride because he was Sebastian, her best friend and a brilliant chaser, and frustration because, well, he was a Slytherin. She wouldn’t let him take this shot unchallenged.

Gritting her teeth, she sent a Bludger hurtling his way. It whizzed toward Sebastian with pinpoint accuracy, but before it could reach him, the Slytherin beater, a tall, stocky sixth-year named Rhys, swooped in and intercepted it with a powerful swing, sending the Bludger rocketing back in the opposite direction. Evie cursed under her breath, but she couldn’t dwell on it for long. Rhys’s interference gave Sebastian the perfect opening.

In one fluid motion, Sebastian tucked the Quaffle under his arm and leaned forward, urging his broom into a breakaway. His movements were quick, his flight graceful as he weaved between Gryffindor players, dodging their last-ditch attempts to block his path. The Slytherin stands erupted with cheers, the green and silver banners waving wildly as Sebastian tore down the pitch, his eyes trained on the Gryffindor goalposts with single-minded determination.

Evie pushed her broom to its limit, following close behind, determined not to let him get away with an easy shot. She weaved around another player, her focus set on closing the distance, but Sebastian’s head start and speed proved a challenge. He knew she was behind him, likely felt the intensity of her pursuit, but he didn’t look back. He had his opening, and he wasn’t about to waste it.

“Come on,” Evie muttered under her breath, her gaze flicking to the Gryffindor Keeper, a fourth-year with a nervous expression but a solid track record. He hovered just before the goalposts, his stance tense as he watched Sebastian approach with increasing speed.

With every ounce of strength she had, Evie urged her broom forward, inch by inch closing the gap. The wind whipped past her ears, her heartbeat echoing the wild cheers and shouts from the stands, but her focus was razor-sharp, her gaze locked on Sebastian’s form as he leaned forward, honing in on the goalposts.

Just as he prepared to throw, Evie shot forward, her broom gliding seamlessly into position beside his. She matched his speed, her arm brushing against his as she nudged him, trying to throw him off balance. Beside her, Sebastian's expression hardened, a competitive fire practically crackling in the air between them.

She pressed her shoulder into him, trying to veer him off his trajectory, but Sebastian countered with equal force, leaning back against her. Their brooms wobbled precariously as they jostled in mid-air, each refusing to give the other an inch. They were neck-and-neck, bodies pressed so closely that she could feel the warmth radiating off him, smell the faint scent of fresh grass and broom polish.

“Persistent, aren’t you?” he shouted, just loud enough for her to hear over the rush of wind. There was an edge to his voice, something teasing but undeniably impressed.

"Very."

With a sly grin, Evie pulled back suddenly, leaving a gap between them. Sebastian, who had been leaning hard into her for balance, lurched forward, momentarily thrown off course. His eyes widened in surprise as he lost his steady grip on the Quaffle, his balance thrown by the unexpected space.

In that split second, Evie darted forward, snatching the Quaffle out of his hands with a triumphant laugh. She caught his incredulous expression as she tucked the ball securely under her arm, her heart pounding with exhilaration. "Thanks for the assist, Sallow!" she shouted over her shoulder, shooting him a wink before diving toward the Slytherin end of the pitch.

She heard his frustrated groan behind her, mingling with the roar of the Gryffindor stands as she zigzagged down the field, keeping the Quaffle close. Her ribs still throbbed from earlier, but she pushed the pain aside. Just a few meters away, she heard Sebastian’s broom closing the distance, his presence like a shadow hot on her heels.

Evie’s eyes darted to the goalposts looming ahead, and for a split second, doubt crept in—she was a Beater, not a Chaser, and rarely found herself in a position to score. But with her teammates forming a protective barrier around her and the Slytherin Keeper slightly out of position, an opening presented itself, too tempting to ignore.

She raised the Quaffle, aiming for the center hoop. Just as she was about to throw, she felt Sebastian’s hand brush against hers, his voice low and challenging.

"Not today, Sterling," he growled, his fingers attempting to knock the Quaffle from her grip.

And that's when she heard a heavy thud.

Evie’s heart stopped at the sound as a Bludger slammed into Sebastian’s side, catching him just below the shoulder. His grip on his broom faltered instantly, and in that split second, Evie saw the flash of pain and surprise in his eyes as he began to fall, his broom spiraling out of control beneath him.

Time seemed to freeze. She had the Quaffle clutched in her hands, the goalposts just within reach, and Garreth Weasley positioned a few feet away, eyes wide as he watched the scene unfold. The crowd’s cheers faded to a dull roar in her ears, and all she could hear was the sound of her own heartbeat pounding as Sebastian plummeted, his form slipping farther and farther below.

Without a second thought, she flung the Quaffle toward Garreth, her voice sharp and frantic. “Garreth, catch!”

He barely registered her shout before grabbing the Quaffle mid-air, his eyes flicking between her and Sebastian in confusion. But Evie didn’t have time to explain. She was already diving, her broom pointed downward, as she tore through the air after her best friend.

“Sebastian!” she called, her voice barely carrying over the wind as she urged her broom faster, the ground below racing up to meet them both. She could see him clearly now, his body twisted, his hand clutching at his side where the Bludger had struck, his usually confident face a mask of pain.

She narrowed her focus, ignoring the protests from her own aching ribs, and positioned herself just above him, reaching out as the two of them plummeted toward the ground. With one final, desperate push, she caught up to him, her fingers finding the collar of his uniform. Gritting her teeth, she braced herself and pulled him toward her as they continued their downward plunge.

The broom struggled under their combined weight, wobbling dangerously as she forced it to slow, the ground rushing up alarmingly fast. Evie could feel her arms shaking, every muscle straining to hold onto him and the broom as she finally managed to level them out, mere feet above the ground.

They landed in a rough, skidding halt on the pitch, grass and dirt flying up around them as Evie lost her grip on her broom and tumbled to the ground with Sebastian still half-draped over her. She barely registered the shouts from the crowd, the pain in her ribs, or the panicked yells from the other players gathering around them. All she could focus on was the way Sebastian's face looked just inches from hers, his breaths shallow as he lay against her.

“Sebastian?” she murmured worriedly, her hand instinctively moving to brush his hair out of his face. “Are you alright?”

His eyes blinked open, and for a moment, they held a dazed, unfocused look. Then, gradually, his gaze sharpened, and he found her face. Despite the pain evident in his expression, he managed a small, crooked grin.

“Should’ve… known you’d pull off something dramatic to steal the spotlight,” he replied, his voice laced with faint amusement.

Evie let out a shaky laugh, relief washing over her as the tension in her shoulders eased. She kept her hand resting against his cheek, thumb grazing his skin as she took in the fact that he was safe, here, and somehow still teasing her despite everything.

The sound of cheers swelled around them, louder and more triumphant than anything Evie had heard all match. For a moment, she thought it was all for Sebastian’s safe landing, but then she saw Garreth fist-pumping in the air, the Quaffle in his hand as he looked toward her, a beaming grin plastered on his face. Beside him, the Gryffindor Seeker held the Snitch triumphantly aloft, its tiny golden wings flapping wildly.

They’d won.

Evie’s laughter bubbled up, a blend of relief and exhilaration. She looked back at Sebastian, whose face had shifted from amusement to mild irritation as he realized the match’s outcome. His jaw clenched, but his eyes softened as he took in her laughing face, his own grin finally breaking through.

“You’ve got to be kidding me,” he muttered, attempting to sit up but wincing as he did so.

Evie snorted, rolling her eyes as she helped him sit up carefully. "Better luck next time."

The two teams descended upon them, Gryffindors cheering wildly as they lifted Evie to her feet, clapping her on the back with congratulatory grins, while the Slytherins grumbled, a few of them muttering darkly under their breath as they helped Sebastian stand. Alan gave her an exuberant thumbs-up, while Garreth was already raving about her last-minute interception.

Sebastian, still standing beside her, watched the celebration with a resigned expression, though his gaze flickered to Evie with a faint smile that suggested he wasn’t entirely displeased. “You know this is only going to make me more competitive,” he murmured, his voice just loud enough for her to hear amidst the cheers.

Evie smirked, crossing her arms as she looked up at him. “Wouldn’t have it any other way, Sallow.”

Before he could reply, Madam Kogawa approached, her stern expression cutting through the celebratory atmosphere. She gave both teams a pointed look before her gaze shifted to Sebastian and Evie.

“Well, I hope you’re both proud of yourselves,” she began, arms crossed over her chest. “A display of skill, I’ll admit—but reckless.” She eyed the way both Sebastian and Evangeline had hands pressed to their injured sides, her face softening ever so slightly.

“Miss Sterling, Mr. Sallow—you’ll be checked for injuries immediately. And as for the rest of you,” she added, her gaze sweeping over the Gryffindors and Slytherins alike, “I expect better sportsmanship next time, or there will be consequences.”

Evie and Sebastian shared a knowing look, amusement dancing in both their eyes even as they nodded solemnly.

“Yes, Madam Kogawa,” they chorused, unable to hide their smirks.

With a resigned sigh, Madam Kogawa rolled her eyes, muttering under her breath as she gestured for them to follow. Evie shot Garreth and the others a quick wave before following Sebastian, her ribs aching but her spirits high.

The walk to the hospital wing was surprisingly quiet, the two of them walking side by side, the sounds of the fading celebrations echoing behind them. Sebastian glanced over at her, his mouth twitching with a suppressed grin. “So, what’s the tally now? That makes it three wins for Slytherin and—”

“Four for Gryffindor,” she finished, nudging him with her elbow. “So much for all your bragging, Sallow.”

He laughed, wincing slightly as he adjusted his hold on his side. “You were lucky. If that Bludger hadn’t hit me, you wouldn't have scored.”

Evie snorted, shaking her head. “Lucky? I think I'd call call it strategy. Can’t help it if you didn’t see it coming.”

Sebastian rolled his eyes, a familiar mischievous glint flashing in his gaze. “Right. Strategic chaos. Let’s see if that holds up next time.”

They continued their lighthearted bickering as they reached the hospital wing, where Madam Blainey was already waiting with her arms crossed, lips pursed in exasperation. “Of course it’s you two,” she sighed, gesturing for them to take seats on the nearest beds. “Every match, without fail. Let’s see the damage.”

Evie and Sebastian exchanged a quick, amused glance as they took their seats, both trying to stifle grins. Madam Blainey immediately set to work, inspecting Sebastian’s bruised side first. He grimaced as her hands pressed around his ribs, but his gaze kept drifting to Evie, who sat watching him with a triumphant smirk.

They exchanged a glance, each trying to suppress a grin as they took their seats. Madam Blainey immediately set to work, inspecting Sebastian’s bruised side first. He grimaced as her hands probed his ribs, his eyes darting over to Evie, who was watching with a smirk, clearly enjoying his discomfort.

“Oh, I see,” he muttered, raising an eyebrow at her. “You find my suffering amusing?”

Evie chuckled, crossing her arms. “Don’t be dramatic. I seem to recall you claiming you live for this.”

“True,” he replied, the corner of his mouth twitching up into a smirk. “But you don’t have to enjoy it so much.”

Madam Blainey rolled her eyes, handing him a bright purple potion. “Drink, Mr. Sallow, and try to keep the chatter to a minimum,” she instructed before turning to Evie. As Blainey examined her ribs, Evie caught Sebastian’s eye again, his smirk softened into something more genuine, almost affectionate.

“Just bruised, nothing broken,” Madam Blainey said, reaching for a vial of the same purple potion. She handed it to Evie and gave them both a long-suffering look. “No Quidditch antics for at least a few days."

“Yes, ma’am,” they chorused, attempting to sound remorseful but both failing miserably.

Once they were dismissed, Evie stretched carefully, rolling her shoulders and glancing sidelong at Sebastian. “Guess I’ll have to go easy on you next match. Wouldn’t want Madam Blainey getting even more cross.”

Sebastian chuckled as they strolled out of the hospital wing together, glancing down at his rumpled, dirt-streaked uniform. “You know, you could’ve softened that landing a bit. I don't think I'll be able to get these grass stains out,” he complained, though the smirk on his face suggested he wasn’t entirely serious.

Evie rolled her eyes, giving him a playful nudge. “You’re lucky I caught you at all. You weigh about a billion pounds."

Sebastian raised an eyebrow, feigning offense. “A billion pounds? Please. I’m perfectly aerodynamic. Besides, it’s hardly my fault you lack upper body strength.”

Evie scoffed, her eyes glinting with playful challenge. “Oh, I could’ve caught you just fine if you’d been a little more… cooperative.”

He laughed, shaking his head. “Right, right. Next time, I’ll fall a bit slower to make things easier for you.”

“Next time, just make sure I don’t have to catch you at all,” she shot back, a teasing smile tugging at her lips.

They reached the entrance to Gryffindor Tower, pausing as Evie pulled off her gloves. “Alright, I’m off to change and salvage what’s left of my uniform. I’ll meet you and Ominis in the Undercroft?”

Sebastian nodded, grinning. “Try not to take too long. I’d hate to leave him waiting, though I’m sure he’ll have plenty to say about today’s ‘reckless behaviour.’”

Evie chuckled. “At least he won’t be surprised. See you soon."

Once in her dormitory, she slipped out of her uniform, wincing slightly as she stretched her arms, the ache in her ribs still lingering. She changed into something more comfortable—a soft gray jumper that hung just past her hips and a pair of dark trousers that allowed her to move freely. Glancing at herself in the mirror, she noticed her own dirt-streaked cheeks and quickly scrubbed her face with a damp cloth, brushing her fingers through her tangled hair to make herself at least somewhat presentable.

Evie grabbed a spare tote bag, intending to make a quick detour to the kitchens. She knew Sebastian would appreciate the gesture, especially since their “post-Quidditch” dinners with Ominis were becoming a bit of a tradition. The house-elves greeted her warmly, and with a few whispered requests, they handed her a bundle of wrapped pastries, a flask of hot chocolate, and an assortment of treats for the three of them to enjoy.

As she made her way through the castle, her thoughts wandered back to the match, particularly to how Sebastian's face had looked only inches from hers. In her mind's eye, she could see every freckle on his dirt-streaked cheeks, his tousled hair from the match. and that look in his deep eyes—some mix of exasperation and affection—had her chest filling with a warmth that she couldn’t quite shake. She could almost hear his teasing voice in her head, could almost feel the weight of his arm steadying her in that brief moment they’d shared on the pitch.

Reaching the Undercroft, she took a steadying breath, reminding herself to keep it together. It was just Sebastian, after all—her best friend, her partner in crime. But as she pushed open the door and spotted him waiting, lounging against one of the pillars with that familiar, insufferable smirk, she felt her heart skip a beat. For all their teasing, she knew she’d fall for that grin every time.

Ominis raised an eyebrow as she entered, his lips curving into a knowing smile. “Ah, Evie. I was wondering when you’d finally show up. Sebastian was starting to look restless.”

Sebastian straightened, his eyes lighting up as he noticed the treats peeking out of her tote bag. “I was beginning to think you’d gotten lost."

Evie rolled her eyes, pulling out the pastries and hot chocolate. “Blame the house-elves for spoiling us,” she replied, setting everything down with a grin.

Sebastian chuckled, reaching for a pastry, but his gaze lingered on her a moment longer, a hint of something unspoken in his eyes. “Guess I’ll let it slide.”

As they settled into their usual spots, the banter flowed as easily as ever, with each laugh and teasing comment deepening the warmth that Evie felt in their company. She and Sebastian exchanged playful jabs over the match, and Ominis, sipping his hot chocolate with an amused smirk, was clearly enjoying every second of their back-and-forth.

Finally, Ominis set his mug down with a chuckle, shaking his head. “You know, Evie, you could have gone for the goal yourself instead of catching Sebastian."

Evie scoffed, giving him a mock glare. “Oh, come on. As if I’d just let him fall.”

Sebastian snickered, leaning back against the stone wall with his signature smirk. “Please, Ominis. You think she’d actually score on Slytherin? She’d have found some way to miss."

She rolled her eyes, "Keep telling yourself that."

After a while, the three friends had eaten their fill, laughter settling into a comfortable quiet as they lay sprawled on the cool stone floor of the Undercroft. Evie rested with her hands folded behind her head, eyes tracing the cracks in the ceiling above, feeling a light ache in her ribs but also a profound sense of ease. Beside her, Sebastian lay with his arms behind his head as well, just a foot away, close enough that she could feel the faint warmth radiating from him in the chilly room.

For a moment, they were both lost in their own thoughts, basking in the quiet, until Sebastian broke the silence with a chuckle. “Did you hear about what happened to Garreth in Potions yesterday?”

Evie turned her head, a grin tugging at her lips. “Please tell me he didn’t blow something up again.”

Sebastian snorted. “Even better. He managed to enchant one of Professor Sharp’s cauldrons so that every time anyone added an ingredient, it let out a… rather unflattering raspberry sound.”

Evie burst into laughter, imagining the scene. “Oh no, I bet Sharp was thrilled about that.”

“Thrilled isn’t the word I’d use,” Sebastian replied, his eyes gleaming with amusement. “He confiscated Garreth’s entire stash of potion ingredients and gave him detention for a week. Garreth tried to claim it was an experiment gone wrong, but Sharp wasn’t buying it.”

Evie shook her head, stifling another laugh. “I swear, that boy will get himself banned from the Potions classroom before graduation.”

“He’s creative, I’ll give him that,” Sebastian said, smirking. “Though maybe a little too creative for his own good.”

They shared a conspiratorial grin, both picturing Garreth’s usual antics, and then another silence settled over them, warm and comfortable. Evie let her gaze drift back to the ceiling, feeling her smile linger as she thought about all the ridiculous moments she’d shared with their little group of seventh-year misfits.

“So,” Ominis murmured from where he sat with his book, “I overheard Violet talking about Evie the other day.”

Evie raised an eyebrow, glancing over at him. “Oh? Should I be concerned?”

“Depends,” he replied, giving her a sidelong look, “She was saying you turned down Leander’s offer to go to Hogsmeade next weekend.”

Evie let out a sigh, rolling her eyes. “Yes, he asked. Again.”

“Poor Leander,” Sebastian snorted with a dramatic shake of his head. “You’ve crushed his hopes so many times, he’ll have to start carrying the pieces around in a bag.”

She laughed, shaking her head. “Honestly, I’ve turned him down so many times I’m starting to feel bad. He just doesn’t take a hint.”

Sebastian’s smirk softened, a glint of something unreadable in his eyes. “Maybe he thinks persistence will win you over.”

Evie tilted her head, giving him a bemused look. “I suppose I can’t fault him for that. But still, I don’t really… feel that way about him.”

“Can’t say I blame you,” Ominis replied, amusement in his voice. “Leander’s nice enough, I suppose, but he’s not exactly subtle, is he?”

Evie laughed. “Not in the slightest. I think he’s tried everything short of composing a sonnet to convince me.”

“Oh, don’t give him any ideas,” Sebastian groaned, “Knowing Leander, he’d probably read you a poem under the stars and then expect you to be completely smitten.”

Evie rolled her eyes, though she couldn’t help but smile. “I’d probably laugh him right off the Astronomy Tower.”

They all chuckled, the sound echoing softly in the cool, stone space of the Undercroft. Evie felt a sense of contentment wash over her—this was her favourite part of these evenings: the way they could joke and tease, their camaraderie unbreakable.

After a moment, Sebastian turned the tables. “Alright, Evie,” he said, a sly smile creeping onto his face. “You’ve dodged Leander’s advances, but you can’t tell me no one’s caught your interest this year.”

Evie’s eyes widened, caught off guard. She tried to hide her flustered reaction by casually stretching her arms. “Maybe I just prefer to keep people guessing.”

Sebastian raised an eyebrow, clearly unconvinced. “That’s a non-answer if I ever heard one.”

She swallowed hard. Evie knew that Ominis was watching with his usual amused yet perceptive gaze, and she felt the weight of both of their stares as Sebastian leaned in, clearly not ready to let the question go.

“Come on,” he pressed, a teasing smile tugging at his lips. “Just between us. You can’t tell me there’s no one you’ve got your eye on.”

Evie’s cheeks flushed as she scrambled for an answer, feeling the weight of Sebastian’s teasing gaze. Meanwhile, Ominis was suppressing a smile behind his mug. He knew—of course, he knew. She'd confided in him ages ago about her infuriatingly deep feelings for Sebastian, the way she’d catch herself staring just a bit too long or laughing just a little too hard at his jokes. And now, he was watching her flounder with obvious amusement.

“I like to keep my cards close to my chest, Sebastian."she began, trying to buy herself a moment, “After all, where’s the fun if everyone knows?”

Sebastian’s brow lifted, clearly not satisfied. “Seriously,” he urged, leaning in a little closer, “Is it that much of a secret?”

After letting her struggle for a painfully long second, Ominis set his mug down with a light, strategic cough. “Really, Sebastian, you’re grilling her like an inquisitor,” he said smoothly, intervening with just enough of a hint of a chuckle to distract his friend.

Sebastian scoffed, glancing at Ominis with a roll of his eyes. "Alright, alright," he relented, still smirking but letting the matter drop—for now.

Evie let out a subtle sigh of relief, giving Ominis a grateful glance. She knew he’d stepped in deliberately, sparing her from further embarrassment. Her heartbeat slowly returned to normal, though she couldn't shake the flush in her cheeks.

They stayed in the Undercroft a while longer, the conversation shifting to lighter topics, stories of past matches, ridiculous Potions mishaps, and every silly thing they’d managed to get away with over the years. Eventually, though, Ominis had set about gathering his things, reminding Evie and Sebastian that their Charms essays were due tomorrow, and that if they didn’t get started soon, he’d have no sympathy for them in the morning.

“I think he's trying to kick us out of our own hideout.” Sebastian muttered, stretching his arms behind his head and then giving Evie a nudge with his elbow.

Evie chuckled, leaning over to give Ominis a pointed look. “Well jokes on you, Gaunt, because I handed in my essay early. It's Sebastian who has procrastinated this time,” she finished with a smirk, crossing her arms and giving Sebastian a triumphant look.

Sebastian’s eyes widened, momentarily caught off guard. “You… did your essay early?” He shook his head in mock disbelief, his voice tinged with playful disappointment. “Who are you, and what have you done with the real Evangeline Sterling?”

Ominis smirked, shaking his head as he tucked his book under his arm. “You both act like school is some terrible punishment. Imagine—actually doing the work assigned,” he teased, heading toward the door. Then, turning back with a wicked grin, he added, “Good luck babysitting, Evie.”

Evie chuckled, rolling her eyes as she gave Ominis a little wave. “Thanks, Ominis. Have a good night.”

As the door closed behind him, silence settled over the Undercroft, warm and comfortable. Evie stretched out on the floor, hands behind her head, her eyes tracing the cracks in the stone ceiling. She could feel Sebastian’s presence beside her, close enough that his quiet breathing was almost in sync with her own. They lay there for a while, neither speaking, the air between them thick with an unspoken tension that had lingered since the match.

After a few minutes, Sebastian broke the silence with a soft chuckle. “So,” he began, his voice casual, but there was a hint of something deeper there. "How're your ribs feeling?"

Evie glanced over, a wry smile on her lips. “Still hurts to laugh, if that’s what you’re hoping for.”

Sebastian snorted, the playful gleam in his eyes softened by a flicker of concern. “Good thing I’m here to be serious and stoic, then.”

She rolled her eyes, though a genuine warmth spread through her chest at his words. "And you?" She asked, tracing the way his deep green sweater hugged his frame, "You took quite a hit out there."

"Nothing I can’t handle. Just a little sore," he replied, glancing back at her. "But I think the worst of it was seeing you dangle off that broom. Nearly gave me a heart attack."

Evie snorted softly, "Oh, please. I had it all under control."

His smirk faded, replaced by a look of genuine concern. "I’m serious, Evie. You could’ve fallen. I don’t think I’ve ever flown that fast in my life."

A soft warmth bloomed in her chest at his words, the depth of his worry unexpected yet welcome. She smiled, chewing absently on the inside of her cheek. “I know. You’re always there when I need you, Sebastian. Thank you.”

They held each other’s gaze, the silence thickening around them. There was a vulnerability in his eyes that she rarely saw, as though he wanted to say something more but was holding back. Finally, he looked away, letting out a soft chuckle. "Well, that’s what friends are for, right?”

Evie swallowed, "Right."

They fell silent again, the unspoken tension simmering between them. After a few moments, Sebastian cleared his throat, his voice softer, almost tentative. “Are you going to keep dodging my question if I ask again?”

Evie’s heart skipped, but forced a chuckle, trying to keep her voice light. “Oh, you mean your interrogation?”

“I suppose it was a bit much,” he admitted, a hint of self-consciousness in his tone. “But, you know, if there is someone… well, he’d be a lucky bloke.”

Evie’s chest tightened, heat flooding her face as she absorbed his words. She wanted to say something but she felt her throat close up, the weight of her unspoken feelings pressing down on her and mingling with a pang of something she couldn’t quite name. She wanted desperately to tell him everything, to close the small gap between them and finally let him see how much he meant to her. But that would ruin everything, so instead she simply turned her head to study him, her gaze tracing the familiar curve of his jaw, the slight furrow in his brow as if he were deep in thought.

“Thanks, Seb,” she murmured after a moment.

His gaze flicked back to her, a gentle smile tugging at his lips, “I don’t know who this mysterious person is, Evie,” he murmured, almost to himself. “But I hope he doesn’t keep you waiting too long.”

Her heart ached, but she only smiled, the truth safe within her for just a little longer. “Me too.”

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