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Josie leans against a wall near the great hall doors, patiently waiting for Regulus who informed her of his anticipated delay. As she spots him walking down the hall after fifteen minutes, she ceases her leaning and greets him with a simple "Hey."
"Hello Josephine," he responds, and they begin walking together. However, this time, being near him feels somewhat strange to Josie. She can't quite pinpoint the reason, but her mind lingers on that initial thought.
Regulus remains unusually quiet, leaving Josie with a desire to initiate a conversation but unsure of how to proceed. Finally, she finds a topic and inquires, "When's your first game?" She refers to his role as the Slytherin seeker, realizing that she has never really paid attention to his performance in previous matches, despite attending them.
"Next weekend. Will you be there?" Regulus replies, his hair falling into his face. Josie fights the impulse to brush it aside and averts her gaze. What's happening to me?
"Absolutely. I've never had the chance to see you play," she remarks, and he smirks in response. "Well, I hope I live up to your expectations."
A smile creeps onto Josie's face as she glances downward. Why is her stomach feeling so fluttery? It's definitely an odd sensation.
The remainder of their patrol is filled with silence, and when it comes time to bid each other goodnight, Josie turns away and says, "Good night, Regulus."
"Good night, Josephine," he replies.
~~~
Josie bundles up in her Ravenclaw scarf, preparing herself for the chilly weather as she heads to watch Dorcas's quidditch game. Knowing they will be exposed to the wind, she layers up with extra clothes.
Upon meeting up with Pandora, Barty, Evan, and Regulus, Josie notices Pandora proudly displaying her Ravenclaw colors, while Barty, Evan, and Regulus opt for more subtle attire.
"Jo!" Pandora greets her with a kiss on the cheek, to which Josie responds with a smile. "Hey Dora."
Pandora loops an arm around Josie's shoulders, and together they make their way towards the quidditch pitch.
Finally, they arrive, and Regulus, Barty, and Evan settle into the Ravenclaw stands to support Dorcas. Josie finds herself seated next to Regulus, fortunate to have secured front-row seats. Glancing down, she catches sight of the Ravenclaw team.
Leaning back, she notices Regulus gazing at her and returns his stare with a warm smile. Moments later, the match begins. Although Josie doesn't possess extensive knowledge of quidditch, aside from what her brother has shared with her, she listens as the commentator provides updates.
"Marlene McKinnon opens the game by aiming a bludger at a Ravenclaw chaser, only to be swiftly distracted by Dorcas Meadows," Remus's voice fills the air. Josie can't help but let out a small laugh.
