See Stars in the Dark

Chapter 2.

Today was a big day for Persephone. It was September first, which meant the start of school. Even her parents managed to be around for today. Of course, Fleamont and Euphemia had to have a stern word with them about it, but in Persephone's eyes, they just wanted to be there for her big day. She was fidgety all morning. Couldn't contain her excitement and was racing up and down the stair the whole morning, checking if she had everything.

"Persephone, time to leave." Her mother called up the stairs for her daughter. Marissa was a beautiful woman. Long dark hair, brown eyes and a few faint freckles that her daughter inherited from her. It didn't take long for Persephone to practically fly down the stairs. She stopped by her mother giving her a hug filled with love and affection. Just like a young child would give to a parent in any normal situation. Marissa stayed stiff for a moment, awkwardly patting the girl's head. "That's quite enough sweetheart. We have to go." She said, the tone of her voice somewhat strained and tense.

Persephone let go of her mother. A small forced smile replaced the real one she had a few moments earlier. She nodded and skipped into the living room where they had the fireplace. Her father, Hermes was already there holding her suitcase. He looked like he was in a rush, his blond hair was combed back and his hazel eyes held impatience in them. It felt as if he was anxious to get rid of his child. To ship it to Hogwarts just to have her out of the way.

But Persephone told herself that it wasn't the case. Her parents loved her after all. They took time off from their busy schedule just to accompany her for her first train ride. She should be grateful and not dwell on the harshness of her father's voice or the restrained behaviour of her mother.

"About time Persephone, we do not have all day." Her father scolded, handing her the pot with Floo Powder.

"Yes, dad," The young girl said bashfully, reaching her hand inside the pot and taking out a fist full of the powder. Then she stepped inside the fireplace and got ready to travel to Kings Cross station.

Once there she waited for her parents. Her mother grabbed her hand and they made their way over to the train. The station was buzzing with noises. Kids running around, saying goodbye to parents and meeting with friends. A few owls were flying in the air, probably escaping from their cages. Persephone smiled at the image. It was everything she dreamed about so far. Her parents stopped by one of the doors to the train, Hermes cast a spell on her trunk and it flew away, loading the train by itself with the other luggage.

Persephone smiled giddily seeing her luggage fly over her head and inside the train. Magic. She was going to learn that once she enters the halls of Hogwarts finally. She will be as skilled as her mum and dad are. Able to use any spell and help them with their work.

She will make friends finally. Someone other than James perhaps. Although her cousin is great it would be nice to have some friends of her own. Speaking of James he was supposed to be here already somewhere. Surely aunt Euphemia and uncle Fleamont wouldn't allow him to be late. Especially if Persephone is going as well. He promised her she could sit with him and his friends on the train ride so she wouldn't have to lurk the train on her own in search of some empty seat.

"All right then. This is it." Hermes said, his voice adjusting to not sound as stern as before. He even managed to muster a small smile, but it was obvious his heart wasn't in it. It was seen in the way his eyes kept on searching around as if expecting someone to attack him at any moment. Always on alert. He nudged Marissa urging her to say something as well.

"Yes, well..." She crouched down to be the same height as her daughter. Her gentle hand brushed through the hair on top of her head. Persephone all but melt in her touch, craving it after such a long time without any type of fondness from either of her parents. "Be good, sweetie, okay and very careful. Mummy's going to miss you." The last sentence felt a little forced but Persephone let it slide.