matching hearts ━ r. lupin

Chapter 07

𝐂𝐇𝐀𝐏𝐓𝐄𝐑 𝟕
*ੈ✩‧₊˚

To many, Horace Slughorn was an impenetrable sort of man. He was kinder than some of the other Hogwarts professors, sure, but that didn't make him any less difficult to put up with.

"Ms. Black, while I do quite like the work you do in my classroom I simply cannot play favorites," Slughorn said and Aria couldn't help but roll her eyes, trailing behind him as he sauntered around his classroom, preparing for Aria's class that would start in half an hour.

"I understand Professor, believe me-"

"I've already turned down ten other students with this same request." He continued. "Collaboration with all types of people is a vital part of your education and I can't just accept everyone wanting to be partnered with the person of their choice."

"Professor Slughorn, I agree with your methods of teaching and I find them quite excellent." Aria flattered the man. "But I'm not here asking for myself."

She pulled out the piece of parchment in her pocket with four names written on it. "I would really appreciate it if you could place these pairs together respectively."

Slughorn sent her weary look before looking at the names.

"I can't put Ms. Evans and Mr. Potter together. They were partners last month." He told her, attempting to walk away.

Aria was quick to shuffle in front of him, blocking his past. "Well, that's fine but what about the other two?"

Slughorn gave an exasperated sigh. "Mr. Anderson was meant to be with Ms. McKinnon and I have Mr. Black with Ms. Meadowes."

"So put Mckinnon and Meadowes together."

"Ms. Black-"

"Please professor," Aria begged. "I'll clean out your potion cabinet every week if you wish. Just help me out here."

Slughorn stared at her for a moment. "I expect to see you at every Slug Club meeting this term."

Aria gave him a giddy grin. "Absolutely, Professor."

***

Remus couldn't help but grin at the accomplished thumbs-up Aria sent him once he walked into potions.

The first stage of the plan had already gone surprisingly smoothly and now they were working on pushing each pairing closer and closer together.

Talking to Slughorn had been Aria's idea. Remus, while he hated potions—and Godric knows why he let James sweet talk him into taking it another year—he found Slughorn tolerable. However, the man was quite attached to his monthly changing of the seating chart. Remus had his doubts about Aria's mission but went with it anyway. And between the thumbs up and smug smile, it seemed to be quite the success.

The students groaned when Slughorn requested they all remain standing once everyone entered.

"Yes, yes, interacting with your fellow peers. How terrible." He smiled at the students.

It was a somewhat small class with only 20 sixth years. Slughorn placed four at each table with two as partners.

"Ms. Meadowes and Ms. Mckinnon, let's have you at this front table." Slughorn tapped the wooden table and the two girls stepped forward.

"And let's have Mr. Anderson and Mr. Black with them."

The amount of emotion that appeared on Sirius' face within seconds was comical.