In the Shadow of Regret (Sebastian Sallow Story)

Chapter Two | A Friend in Need

As I wake up the next morning, all I could seem to focus on is the pounding in my head. I slowly sit up and move toward the edge of my bed. I take a couple minutes to gather my thoughts before I finally stand up. As I look over to Imelda's side of the Dorm, I notice that all her belongings are gone. Looks like she didn't waste any time to head home for the summer. Must be nice. I must admit that while I wasn't particularly fond of Imelda in the beginning, she has definitely grown on me once I spent more time with her.

Once I am dressed, I take a couple minutes to brush my hair and put it into a low bun making sure to pull out a couple of loose strands of hair at the front of my face. I take one final look in the mirror before heading out, making sure that I don't look like I just had one the worst nights of my life. My eyes are still a bit puffy from last night, but I can easily blame it on allergies if anyone asks.

I quickly make my way to the Slytherin Common Room, only to find that is almost empty aside from a couple of students. I am greeted by few as I walk to the stairs leading to the exit. I am once again relieved that the news of my true identity hasn't reached Hogwarts, and I desperately hope that it stays that way. I don't think Sebastian would say anything, but at this point who knows.

After yesterday's confrontation with Sebastian in the Undercroft, I was heavily considering not going to the House Cup Ceremony. Not only because I practically had my ass handed to me, but out of fear that the news had already made its way to Hogwarts. Even though I have faced Goblins, Trolls, Raiders, and Dragons in the past; I would rather take them all on simultaneously than to face my peers. However, I was pleasantly surprised to find that all continued as normal. Especially, when it was announced that House Slytherin had won the House Cup due to my continuous efforts throughout the school year. An achievement that I feel was tainted by lies, betrayal, and deception.

Once I step through the doors leading out of the Slytherin Common Room, I am immediately greeted by Professor Weasley. My body automatically jumps at the sight of her with a small yelp escaping my lips. Jesus! Hasn't this woman ever heard of sending an Owl. She's lucky my first instinct isn't to immediately throw a punch. Especially with all the shit that has tried to kill me this past year.  

"Professor Weasley... you startled me," I say, trying my best to recover from my miniature heart attack.

"I do apologize Ms. Pierce, I was just on my way to come and find you.. I'm afraid there are some matters that need our immediate attention..." She says. I can tell by her facial expressions that she is trying her best to hide something. It doesn't take long before I figure out what this is about. She knows.

"Alright." I say, "please lead the way."

********

When we finally reach her office, she swiftly closes the door behind me and instructs me to take a seat in front of her desk. As I do, I can immediately feel my body tense up. The pit in my stomach is back and the heartache I once had has completely disappeared. Fuck, I'm definitely getting expelled. She hasn't said a word since we left the Slytherin Common room, and the closer we got to her office the more anxious I got. A big part of me even wanted to turn tail and run.

"Ms. Pierce I have brought you down here to talk to you regarding a piece of information we received a while back... it has to do with your father..Victor Rookwood," She says finally breaking the silence between us.

Once again the air is sucked out of my lungs. There it is..I knew it would only be a matter of time before the truth caught up to me. I stay quiet, not really knowing what to say or do. All I can manage was a silent nod while avoided her gaze.