THE SHADOW PATH ⎯ james potter

[009]

chapter nine: staying tethered to the real world

The warmth of the Great Hall had begun to fade as the evening came to a close. Students started to file out in small groups, heading back to their common rooms to prepare for the night. The gang moved together as they usually did—James leading the way with Sirius at his side, his usual swagger returning after a hearty meal. Peter trailed closely behind them, his steps light with excitement, while Charlotte bounded next to Ellie, chatting happily about their upcoming adventure.

"So, it's settled then," James said as they approached the large doors. His voice was low, but the glint in his eye was unmistakable. "We're sneaking down to the kitchens at midnight. That'll give us enough time to grab some snacks before Filch starts his rounds."

Sirius grinned, his mood finally lifting after the evening's earlier tension. "I'm in. Reckon we can charm the house-elves into whipping up something special?"

"Of course," Peter said, his face glowing with mischief. "We've got you and James—you can charm anyone."

"That's debatable," Remus added with a dry smile, though he couldn't quite hide his amusement.

Charlotte giggled and nudged Ellie playfully. "You in, Ellie? I bet we could convince them to give us the best butterbeer they've got."

Ellie hesitated for a moment, feeling the weight of the night pressing down on her. The flicker of unease had been growing inside her all evening, pulling her thoughts back to the shadows she had been avoiding for months. She knew she had to go back tonight, despite the risk. The whispers had been growing louder again, and the pull was becoming impossible to ignore.

But she couldn't tell them that. They wouldn't understand.

She plastered on a weak smile and shook her head. "I don't know, guys," she said quietly. "I'm not feeling so great. I think I'll sit this one out."

Instantly, concern flashed across their faces. Charlotte frowned and leaned closer. "What's wrong? You seemed fine earlier."

Ellie shrugged, trying to sound convincing. "I've just got a bit of a headache, that's all. Probably just tired."

Remus furrowed his brow, his eyes narrowing with suspicion. He had known Ellie long enough to sense when something was off. "Are you sure? We can stay with you if you need us to."

"No, no," Ellie insisted, her voice firmer than before. "I'll be fine. Really. You all go have fun. I just need to lie down for a bit."

The group exchanged worried glances, but Ellie could see they didn't want to push her too much. After all, they had no reason to suspect she was lying.

"Alright," Sirius finally said, his voice softer than usual. "But if you're not feeling better by tomorrow, let us know, yeah?"

Ellie nodded, grateful for the easy out. "Yeah, of course. Thanks."

James threw an arm around Sirius and Peter, starting to guide them towards the staircase that would take them to the Gryffindor tower. "We'll bring you back some food if you're still up for it later," he called over his shoulder, his grin wide.

"Thanks," Ellie said, forcing another smile as she watched them go.

Charlotte lingered for a moment longer, biting her lip. "Are you sure you're okay? You don't have to push yourself, Ellie."

"I'm sure," Ellie replied, though guilt was gnawing at her insides. "I just need some rest. I'll be fine by morning."

Charlotte still looked uncertain, but she finally relented, giving Ellie's hand a gentle squeeze before following the others. "Okay. But if you need anything, just send me a note, alright?"