As It Was *Complete*

35. Life Lesson

Harry must have got the hint because he did not come near Astra for the entire day. He watched from a distance but he never annoyed her by trying to talk to her. She expected it to annoy her but she actually felt quite peaceful. Although that may be because she was still taking pain meds and would be for another few days at least.

But she was happy. She had grown to love her little friend group. Theo and Pansy who had become official and had practically become one person, finishing each other's sentence and looking lovingly into each other's eyes. Then there was Maddi and Blaise who clearly thought everyone else was blind and couldn't see the small gestures they made. Like being together all the time, finding ways to touch each other and staring at each other when separated.

It would be cute if it wasn't fucking stupid.

They had another life lesson that afternoon, this one was right before dinner. Astra and her friends were standing waiting as the teachers cleared the tables and brought out the usual love seats for the couples to sit in.

"Astra," she turned to see Neville, Dean, Seamus, Luna smiling at her.

"Hey guys, how are you all?" She noticed that Dean and Seamus were holding hands.

"How are we?" Neville asked. "After what happened to you, you're asking how we are?"

"I guess so," she smiled.

"We are good thanks," Seamus rolled his eyes at Neville. "We heard about your ordeal."

"Yeah," she said looking down.

"I am sorry it happened but you should know you have the sweetest colour of aura I have ever seen since it. I mean it was like before there was a cloud hanging over you and now you are free of it. It's wonderful!" Luna gushed.

"Thanks Luna," Astra smiled. Luna always made her feel special and she had no idea how.

"So they have no idea where Goyle is?" Dean asked.

Astra shook her head. "Nope. Although they are patrolling the school now so hopefully he won't be back."

"We are so happy you are ok," Neville said nervously. "You are the last person to deserve to be hurt."

"Aye you're too nice so ya are," Seamus nodded.

"I am sure these guys are taking good care of you anyway," Dean said gesturing to behind him where the Slytherin's and Maddi stood.

"Damn right," Theo smirked. "Personal body guards."

"Well if you ever need extra hands, just let us know," Seamus said to him. "Anything for our Astra."

She blushed.

"Thanks Seamus," Draco nodded to him. "The more people watching out for her, the better I...we will all feel. She is too special."

"Abso-fucking-lutely," Dean and Blaise said together and then laughed.

"OK folks, everyone find a seat with your partner," Mr Brennan called.

"We will see you all later," Neville as he waved and headed off with the others following.

"Does everyone just love you?" Pansy smirked as she took a seat and pulled Theo next to her.

"I am beginning to think so," Draco grumbled as he did the same, holding Astra's back as he walked with her to another couch. She didn't notice when she sat down until she heard his voice.

Harry was right behind her. "Harry James Potter, don't you dare!" Ginny warned.

"Gin, I need to talk to her."