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Josie lets out an exasperated sigh as she hurries her way to the designated meeting spot where her friends are waiting. Her tardiness is a result of an unexpected debate with another student in her house, discussing the correct answer to a riddle.
"Sorry I'm late," Josie says as she settles down on the ground beside the black lake, where her friends have gathered.
Evan, leaning on Barty's shoulder, notices her pensive expression and asks, "Are you alright, Josette? You seem a bit angry"
She mentally acknowledges Evan leaning on Barty's shoulder cute before responding to his inquiry. "Well, I got into a debate with a Ravenclaw student about the answer to the riddle," Josie explains, absentmindedly picking at her nails. Her dark eyes narrow as if she can still see the student before her. "The answer was a shadow, and yet they can't comprehend such a simple concept."
Regulus raises an intrigued eyebrow, while Evan bursts into laughter.
Josie returns Evan's smile, then shifts her gaze towards the other side of the courtyard, spotting her brother, Remus, and Peter. She immediately notices Sirius's absence, and curiosity sparks within her. Her suspicions are confirmed when a black dog trots alongside them. A mischievous smirk plays on Josie's lips as she formulates a plan.
"I'll be right back," she informs her friends before heading over to her brother.
"James," she greets him, causing him to turn his head toward her and then to the black dog with a panicked expression. "When did you get a dog?"
"Uh, well, he's a stray," James stumbles over his words, while Remus continues reading and Peter looks anywhere but their direction.
"A stray?" Josie struggles to contain her laughter.
The dog emits a whining sound, capturing Josie's attention. She bends down slightly, extending her hand to pet the dog.
"You know what's amusing? I distinctly remember this very dog being at our house this summer," Josie says, glancing at her brother while continuing to stroke the dog's fur.
"Oh, they must just look similar," James shrugs, attempting to brush off the revelation.
"That must be it," Josie nods, diverting her gaze back to the dog.
"Well, I have to be on my way. Goodbye, Sirius," she pats the dog one last time before swiftly departing, leaving behind a dramatically gasping brother in her wake.
Josie returns to her friends and settles back into her spot, noticing that Dorcas and Barty have departed. The remaining group seems engrossed in their own activities, so she leans against the tree and retrieves the romance book she is currently reading.
A rustling of leaves catches her attention, and she glances to her side, finding Regulus peeking over at her book. She swiftly closes it and flashes him a smile.
