IN ANOTHER LIFE (James Potter x Severus Snape)

Chapter 5 - First Week

Serena took a deep breath as she settled into her seat at the Slytherin table. The Great Hall was abuzz with activity as students chattered excitedly, eagerly awaiting the Sorting Ceremony to conclude. As she glanced around, she noticed eyes turning in her direction.

Her new and past classmates were looking at her, some with curiosity and others with surprise. To her astonishment, a few older students even smiled and waved at her, as if they were genuinely glad to see her. It was a stark contrast to the way they had treated her before.

A wave of confusion washed over Serena as she realized that most of the students who now welcomed her with open arms were the same ones she knew would eventually turn out to be Death Eaters. They were the ones who had cast her out of Slytherin student cliques because of her association with a muggle-born. Yet, here they were, looking at her like she was some kind of tiny kitten they had found on their doorstep.

A smile tugged at Serena's lips as she observed their behavior. It struck her as both strange and funny how people's judgments could change based on appearances and gender. It seemed that her own transformation, from an outsider to a fellow Slytherin, had altered their perceptions of her.

As Serena pondered this unexpected turn of events, she couldn't help but feel a sense of irony. The very people who had once rejected her were now embracing her, not because they had changed, but because she had. It was a reminder that appearances and stereotypes could be deceiving, and that one's true character should never be judged solely on external factors.

With newfound confidence, Serena decided to embrace her new role in Slytherin. She would prove that she was more than just a label or a friend of a muggle-born. She would show her housemates that she possessed the cunning, ambition, and strength that Slytherins were known for, but she would do so on her own terms.

~~~

"Hello!"

Serena turned towards the person who called out to her and she found herself face to face with a fellow Slytherin. The girl had long, wavy light brown hair and piercing brown eyes. She had a delighted smile on her face as she extended her hand.

"Hey there! I'm Evelyn," she said, her voice filled with warmth. "Looks like we'll be sharing this table for the foreseeable future."

The girl looked familiar but Serena didn't seem to remember her being in Slytherin in her past life. Serena's surprise quickly transformed into a genuine smile as she shook Evelyn's hand. "Hello...Evelyn. It's nice to meet you. I'm Serena."

Their conversation flowed effortlessly as they ate their dinner and indulged in the delicious desserts that adorned the Slytherin table. Serena found herself feeling at ease, and the initial reservations she had about her new housemates began to fade away.

As Serena and Evelyn continued their conversation, discussing their favorite subjects and sharing stories about their magical upbringing, Serena couldn't help but wonder about Evelyn's own background.

"So, Evelyn, what's your family background like?" Serena inquired, her tone filled with genuine curiosity.

Evelyn's brown eyes shimmered with a mix of nostalgia and pride. "Well, my full name is Evelyn Sallow, I come from a long line of pureblood wizards and witches. My family has been rooted in the magical world for generations."

Serena listened attentively, her curiosity piqued. She had heard stories about the Sallow's during her time as Severus. They've been neutral in both wars just like the Greengrass family. She heard that they hid in their old homes in Feldcroft, somewhere close by Hogwarts castle.

"How do you feel to be sorted into Slytherin?" Serena asked, her voice laced with genuine interest.

Evelyn's smile softened as she leaned in closer, her voice taking on a more earnest tone. "It has its challenges, no doubt. There are those within the house who hold onto outdated beliefs and prejudices. But I believe that being a pureblood doesn't define who I am as a person. It's about the choices we make and the values we uphold. I, for one wanted to be in Ravenclaw but the Hat decided that it would be best for me to be here instead."