just the two of us; h.j.p

back home

Persephone climbed through the portrait hole, her mind on Quidditch. This morning would hopefully be a calm morning, considering it was the first day.

She, however, knew that Defense Against the Dark Arts that afternoon would not be so fun, judging based off of Professor Umbridge's interruption of Dumbledore's speech the day before. So far, nobody had high hopes for her class. Especially Persephone.

With her mind focused on Quidditch and Hogwarts, she almost ran into Dean on the way out.

" Sorry, Dean—"

He smiled at her in response and gently moved aside, allowing her past.

" Thanks. "

" Yep. "

Dean was nice, but quiet. He often was with Seamus or Neville, spending his days reading or complimenting people for their hair or clothes.

Persephone continued around the bend, and could hear the painting whip shut behind her. She continued down the steps, staring straight down to the ground below. Hogwarts was chilly in the mornings, the paintings busy with men and women deep in conversation.

" Good morning, Miss Granger! " a man called from the painting, facing her.

" Hi! " she responded, stopping.

" How are you? " he asked.

Persephone smiled. " I'm good. Excited to be back. How are you, Henry? "

Each year on the first day Persephone had always had a conversation with Henry. The recent events had almost made her completely forget.

They had quick conversations, of how their summers were. Always ended with a good luck for the school year.

He sat alone in his painting, having dark hair and dark eyes. He was one of the first Professors at Hogwarts, and had been there, living in the painting since his death thousands of years before.

It always made Persephone think how many children he must've watched grow up over the years, and how many Headmasters and Professors he had experienced.

After a short conversation, she waved goodbye and a smile lingered on her face.  She turned down the steps into the Great Hall, and noise began to flood her hears.

Persephone instantly recognized her group that was seated in the center. She went over, taking a seat beside Hermione, who was scolding Ron.

" You can't laugh when first years fall, it's not funny. Or anyone, for that matter; it's very rude. I'm serious, Ron. " she hissed, leaning to him.

Ron smiled. " I think it is. Especially when they face plant and that one guy in the painting laughs. It's awesome. "

Persephone raised her eyebrow in confusion, her eyes darting to Harry's. Warmth surged through her as their eyes met across from each other, a welcoming smile dancing on his face.

" Persephone. " Hermione stated, her focus turning to her sister.

" Hermione. " Persephone spoke, mocking Hermione's stern, stable tone.

A smirk formed on Hermione's lips. " Are you excited for today? " she asked, stirring a mood change in their group.

" Not really. I didn't miss school. " Persephone responded, glancing back down to the table to pick up a roll.

Hermione huffed. " Well, I'm excited. I plan to visit the library this evening, followed by studying in an alcove. Perhaps not so excited for Divination, though. "

Hermione was never fond of Divination, and considering the fact that she hadn't taken it in fourth year, she absolutely had to take it this year if she wanted a decent schedule for sixth and seventh.