unfamiliarly familiar (f.w)

ch. 4 - unwanted

The next day started the same as the day before. Up as the sun rose and ready by 7am, but this day felt better than the one prior. Instead of feeling heavy guilt and frustration, all I felt was hungry for breakfast. Those feelings lingered in me still, however with McGonagall's encouraging words and even my friendly encounter with Fred and George, I felt a glimmer of hope and even a bit excited, though I hated to admit it. I also had lunch with Draco to look forward to today.

I could smell the freshly baked goods coming from the Great Hall as I approached the entrance. The savory scent overwhelming my senses caused a grumble in my stomach. I peered around looking for a familiar face to potentially sit with. My eyes landed on Ron and Harry. Here goes nothing. 

"Hey" I blurted out as I reached the boys."Uh, would it be alright if I sat with you two?" I rushed my words a bit, I couldn't help but feel a bit nervous that they will decline. I haven't been the most pleasant person exactly. Ron gave Harry a questioning look. "Of course" Harry said, ignoring Ron's face. An awkward silence settled over the table as I filled my plate. "I'm not sure if I've introduce myself... I'm Aria" I said, looking at Ron. I noticed Ron's facial features relax a bit. "I'm Ron, Ron Weasley" He smiled back. I could tell Ron was still a bit uncomfortable around me, but the small gesture made me feel hopeful those feelings would soon dissipate.

The three of us talked through most of breakfast. Mostly about Quidditch, Harry hasn't even heard of it so Ron and I explained some basic things about it which seemed to interest him quite a lot. I always loved Quidditch but never saw myself playing it. I prefer watching and cheering for my favorite team– The Holyhead Harpies. Our conversation was soon interrupted by two red heads deciding to sit directly across from me. 

"Look Freddie, it's our new buddy Aria" George said as the pair sat down in front of me. I let out a small giggle "Hello boys" I said in between bites of eggs. Fred and George quickly jumped into our conversation about Quidditch. "We're gonna try out to be Beaters this year" Fred said excitedly. George nodded with just as much enthusiasm as his brother. 

As the end of breakfast approached, a swarm of owls began to fly into the Great Hall, dropping parcels and letters in front of students. My family's owl Apollo soon swooped in, dropping a black envelope in front of me. My breath hitched– it was from Mum and Father. "Everything alright?" Fred asked noticing my change in demeanor. I tried to play it off alright replying "all good" with a smile. I ran my finger along the letter, opening the seal and removing the piece of parchment inside. 

My dearest Aria,

Your father and I have heard about your unfortunate house placement and we are shocked to say the least. Your father is not happy with you and I can't say I'm thrilled. We are both disappointed and thought we raised you to live up to the families Slytherin history, however it seems that has failed. I'm not sure how things will be at home with your father when you return for Christmas but I advise you not to fuel the fire anymore than you already have. Your father said there will be consequences because of your house placement, it is best not to do anything that raises the severity of those consequences. We've asked Draco to keep an eye on you and involve you with his friends in Slytherin. It is best you surround yourself with them as they understand our values and beliefs and will not lead you in the wrong direction like some other houses might. 

Write back soon.

Love, Mum

Another shiver shot up my spine as I read 'there will be consequences' over and over again. What is going to happen to me? Mum won't let me get hurt. My heart beat echoed throughout my body as I did my best to calmly place the letter in my bag. 

"I have to go." I said forcing a faint smile. "Class doesn't start for another 15 minutes Aria" Ron replied. "I know, but I just need to go" I said, turning around and walking out of the hall before anyone could say anything else. Tears began to prick at the corner of my eyes but I quickly blinked them away before they could roll down my cheeks.