Chapter Four: Bounty, Bonds, and Butterbeers

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As the week carried on, encounters with Vash seemed to grow infrequent. Our schedules didn't align well, and the moments when our paths did cross were fleeting. Sebastian seemed rather content with this, aware of my interactions with Vash but visibly pleased that they weren't frequent. Vash, on the other hand, maintained a respectful distance from Sebastian, understanding the unspoken dynamics between us and avoiding any unnecessary tensions.

As Thursday arrived, I found myself making my way to Muggle Studies after lunch. Sebastian walked beside me, his presence offering comfort and a sense of familiarity. As we paused outside the classroom door, readying ourselves for the upcoming class, Vash appeared almost on cue.

A bright smile illuminated his face as he addressed me, "I was wondering when I was going to see you again."

Sebastian's eyes rolled dramatically, accompanied by a pronounced groan. "I'll catch up with you later, Josie," he declared, placing a tender kiss on my cheek before turning his attention to Vash. The tension between them was palpable, an unspoken acknowledgment of territorial boundaries, as Sebastian walked away.

With a smile and a slight shake of my head, I turned back to Vash. "Do you also have Muggle Studies?"

Vash nodded in response, gesturing me through the door and together we stepped into the classroom. Taking my usual seat, Vash settled into the chair next to mine. The class began as Professor Thistlewick initiated his lecture for the day, and even in the midst of learning, I couldn't help but be aware of the intricate web of relationships and emotions that was steadily weaving itself around me.

During the class period, it became apparent that Vash was remarkably well-versed in the subject matter. His hand shot up promptly whenever Professor Thistlewick posed a question, and his responses were consistently accurate and detailed. It was almost effortless for him, and I couldn't help but notice the slight smile that graced his lips each time he provided an answer.

As the lecture progressed, I found myself occasionally stealing glances at Vash, curious about the depth of his knowledge. His insights into various muggle inventions and customs were enlightening, and I realized that his muggle heritage must have given him a significant advantage in this subject. While my own understanding of the muggle world was certainly not lacking, Vash's familiarity with the intricacies of it was impressive.

As the class drew to a close, Professor Thistlewick commended Vash's contributions, clearly pleased to have such an engaged student in his midst. Vash's demeanor remained humble and modest, his eyes occasionally meeting mine with a twinkle of amusement as he noticed my observations.

Once the class ended and we were free to leave, Vash turned to me with a grin. "I suppose being born of No-Maj's has its perks when it comes to Muggle Studies."

I chuckled softly, appreciating his easygoing nature. "It certainly seems that way. You were practically the star of the class today."

As we approached the classroom exit, Professor Thistlewick called out to Vash, prompting him to make his way over to the professor's desk. Deciding to wait for him in the doorway, I watched as they engaged in conversation. In the middle of it, Sebastian appeared outside the classroom, accompanied by Ominis. Sebastian's inquisitive expression was hard to miss as he approached me, his voice carrying a hint of disbelief, "What are you doing?"

My gaze shifted to where Vash was engaged with the professor, and I offered a simple explanation, "I was waiting for him."

Sebastian's brows furrowed in a mix of confusion and annoyance, clearly not comprehending my intentions. "Why?"

I found myself without a definite reason, so I shrugged in response. Just as the tension seemed to be settling between us, Vash's presence broke the silence, his smile lighting up the space. "Sorry to keep you guys waiting," he said amiably, "Professor Thistlewick asked me to fetch something from Upper Hogsfield. Would you like to join me?"

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