Beyond a Constellation

Homecoming

Snow danced along the frosted December wind, and a blanket of snow covered Hogwarts. Winter break was approaching, and the sixth-year students impatiently awaited its arrival. The last week of term was the worst. It also meant deadlines between packing and getting ready to go back for the holidays.

The library was nearly packed around this time, with students rushing to complete assignments. The four friends sat silently at a table, completing their tasks before Ed groaned as he sunk his head against the cool teakwood table.

"Come on, Eddie, it can't be that bad..." Valerie stroked his back.

"Who cares about history? It's already done! We should be able just to move on!" Ed complained.

Lucius chuckled, "Do you need help?" he asked.

"No, I need this to end..." he lifted his head off the table and sulked.

"Maybe we just need to take a little break?" Narcissa suggested.

"I second that!" Ed slammed his book shut and flipped his parchment paper.

"So, do you guys know who is hosting this year's Yuletide party? Valerie asked.

"No, was it even announced?" Lucius asked.

"Don't think so..." Narcissa pressed her lips.

"I am just ready to go home. I mean, I am not too excited because we are going on a ski trip to Courchevel again this year, and I know damn well Charlie will simply boast about how great she is!" Ed grumbled. He usually got along with his sister Charlotte until a competition of sorts arose.

"Wish I could join, but we are visiting my grandparents in Surrey this year, and it's been ages since I've seen them..." Valerie rested her head on his shoulder in comfort.

"What about you two?" Valerie diverted her gaze to Lucius and Narcissa, who briefly shared the same nervous reaction before stammering.

"I don't think we've planned anything; I will just spend time with my father," Lucius said.

Despite his cold demeanor and how well he hid it, Abraxas was lonely. Lucius knew this, and he spent as much time with his father as he could. Sometimes, they would plan things together, but they were things that Lucius didn't quite enjoy, like hunting. Still, he wouldn't say no. He knew that deep down, his father appreciated it, even if he failed to show it. His father wasn't too fond of Quidditch and didn't care when Lucius talked about it, so he just followed his father's desires.

"I am staying home as well..." Narcissa cleared her throat.

She dreaded heading back. The only thing that she looked forward to was reuniting with her sister, Andromeda. Apart from that, her parents were a nightmare to be around. There was a time when it didn't bother her, but since Andromeda got herself tangled up with Ted, Narcissa grew paranoid. She knew what her parents would do if they found out. She constantly worried about her sister getting caught, and although she didn't entirely support the idea, Narcissa loved Andromeda dearly.

Unlike Bellatrix, Andromeda was gentle with her growing up. Narcissa filled the space she held for maternal love with her sister's kindness. It was Andromeda who played with her, cared for her, and showed up for her. When Narcissa was down, it would be Andromeda who picked her up.

Like Narcissa, Andromeda searched for love and warmth in Bellatrix and her parents but could only find it in Narcissa. From that moment, the two sisters grew inseparable.

"But you're all attending the annual Yuletide party, right? I have to see you before I leave for Surrey..." Valerie asked.

"It's not like we have a choice..." Lucius scoffed.