Violet Summer: Prisoner of Azkaban

Chapter 17: Pressing Time

 Once Harry had returned to regular classes, Toni felt a wave of relief wash over her. However, the constant taunting from Draco ignited a spark of anger within her. Draco persisted in tormenting Harry relentlessly, and Potions class became particularly unpleasant, with Draco mocking and imitating Harry's fall in the previous match. Snape, unfortunately, turned a blind eye to Draco's behavior, allowing him to get away with it. That was until Ron decided to retaliate by hurling a crocodile heart at Draco's face, resulting in Gryffindor losing fifty points.

Toni realized that Draco would not ease up on his harassment of Harry anytime soon. In fact, things seemed to be escalating, fueled by Draco's newfound confidence since they had agreed to keep their relationship a secret. Draco mistakenly believed that Toni wouldn't be too harsh on him because of it, but he was wrong. After Potions class ended, Draco continued his tormenting of Harry in the halls. This bothered Toni immensely, so she used a charm to enchant Draco's books, causing them to float up to the tall ceilings. Harry, Ron, Hermione, and Toni watched and laughed as Crabbe, Goyle, and Draco desperately tried to retrieve their books. It didn't take long for Draco to realize that Toni was behind the prank, and for the remainder of that Monday, he kept quiet about Harry. Unfortunately, his silence only lasted for the day, as his tormenting resumed in the following two days.

While Draco and Toni hadn't arranged to meet that week, their exchanged glances, hidden smiles, and glares served as reminders of their secret agreement. Pansy, however, quickly caught on to the situation and bombarded Draco with questions, to which he simply ignored. Toni was grateful that Hermione, Ron, and Harry seemed oblivious to what was happening. Draco became more daring in displaying his affection in front of his friends, but Toni was careful not to reveal anything in front of hers. Nevertheless, she occasionally caught Theodore's gaze, who had obviously noticed the two of them.

Putting that aside, Defense Against the Dark Arts class finally arrived, with Professor Lupin returning. He reassured the students that the werewolf essay was no longer necessary, as he would discuss it with Snape. While many students were relieved, Toni couldn't help but feel her suspicions rise again. She found herself closely observing Lupin, paying attention to every move he made. Her uncle was present in the class, occasionally chiming in with witty jokes that made the girls swoon and the boys jealous, but Toni paid little attention to him. Her focus was solely on Lupin.

As the class ended, the students gathered their belongings, ready to leave their seats. However, Wolfe rose from his chair abruptly, catching everyone's attention. "A quick moment!" he called out, causing all the Gryffindors and Slytherins to turn back and face him. "In the next class, we will have a physical demonstration outside the castle walls. Lupin and I have carefully planned it with the assistance of two close friends. We will meet here as usual and walk together to the destination."

The class was taken aback by this announcement, fully aware of the dangers that lurked beyond the castle walls.

Dean voiced his concern, "Outside the castle walls?"

"What about the Dementors?" Seamus added nervously.

Wolfe smiled reassuringly, "There's no need to worry about them. My friend Gus Jackbuck is highly skilled with charms and knows a perfect spell to ward off any Dementors that come too close to any of you. Additionally, my other friend Roan Dovetail is particularly adept in defense. Together, they have devised a foolproof spell that will ensure your safety."

Although the students remained hesitant, they reluctantly nodded in agreement before dispersing. Toni exchanged a shrug with her friends and followed them out, while Harry stayed back with Lupin. The four of them walked down the school corridors, when they suddenly heard Wolfe's voice echoing through the halls. He raced to catch up with them, maneuvering through the students until he halted before Toni and her friends.