Forever And Always | D.M

Chapter 11

After talking to her at length about Draco's words and actions, Hermione approached us, asking if we were ready to leave and call it a night. Which I was more than eager to do so.

As I walked back to the Gryffindor tower, my mind raced with anticipation of what Draco was going to say before Ginny arrived.

"You alright?" Ron asked kindly, nudging my shoulder. I chuckled and nodded, "Yeah, just a bit lost in thought." As we entered the common room, I added, "Oh, and thanks for carrying me to bed last night. You didn't have to do that." He smiled and waved it off, assuring me that it was no trouble at all.

I noticed Hermione struggling up the stairs, so I smiled and walked over to her. She looked up at me with a grateful expression and said, "Thank you, Sofia. It looks like I could use some help here." I nodded in agreement, and we ascended the stairs arm in arm.

What Ron did may have been a small gesture, but it made me feel so valued and cherished. I truly consider myself fortunate to have them as my friends

•••

I open my eyes and immediately feel a slight throbbing in my head. I groan as I sit up and rub my temples, trying to ease the pain. As I swing my legs over the edge of the bed, I check the time and see that it's almost 12 pm.

Standing up with a sigh, I reluctantly head to the bathroom to wash away the lingering smell of alcohol from the night before.

After taking a refreshing shower, I quickly got dressed and made my way down to the common room, where I saw everyone sprawled out.

"It's about time you woke up. I was considering waking you up earlier, just because I was missing you so much." Ginny chuckled as I searched for a painkiller.

Hermione groaned in exasperation, leaning into Harry who had his eyes shut tightly. "I solemnly swear that I will never touch alcohol again," she declared.

"Does anyone know where I can find some painkillers?" I asked, searching for them with purpose.

Ron held the bottle up in the air, saying, "Over here." I gratefully reached out and took it from him, thanking him.

My stomach grumbled loudly and I realized I was starving. "Hey guys," I said, trying to sound casual. "I was thinking of heading over to the Three Broomsticks for a bite to eat. Anyone interested in joining me?"

Ron's eyes lit up at the suggestion. "I could go for a butterbeer and some fish and chips," he said, rubbing his belly. "What about you guys?"

"I'm actually meeting someone there, so I'll have to join you all a bit later," Ginny said.

Harry and Hermione both nodded eagerly, and we set off toward the cozy little pub. As we walked, I cursed at myself for wearing a skirt without leggings forgetting how cold it is in October.

When we arrived at the Three Broomsticks, I led the way to a cozy booth in the corner. As we ordered a round of butterbeers and some hearty meals, enjoying each other's company and the warmth of the fire. It was the perfect way to spend a lazy afternoon.

Ron grumbled in displeasure as he saw Ginny and Dean enter the room and take a seat too close to each other in the booth across the way. "Slit Git," he muttered under his breath.