The Tribrid and Her Prison {COMPLETE}

Bubble, Bubble, Unicorn Trouble

The days passed slowly. At least, it felt that way to Hope. She spent most of her time in Albus' office, only retreating to hide in his chambers at night and when someone was coming by for a visit. It was rare that a student was sent, but it did happen.

Mostly Sarah.

Hope wanted to do more, to reach out and offer help again. But since Valentine's Day, a chill swept down her body at the thought of leaving the safety of Albus' office and venturing further. Never again did she want to be touched like that again- to be forced to feel so helpless.

All Newt and Albus could do now was remind her that what happened wasn't her fault. It helped.

Sometimes.

Other times, Hope would lie awake wishing she could fight away the fear that crept over her like icy fingers. Then the panic would set in, and Albus and Newt would do their best to help her calm down enough to fall asleep. They were cautious of how they touched her, and for that, she was grateful.

A part of her missed their touch, and then another part cringed at the thought of it. That was what she hated the most. Knowing she could trust them with everything and yet nothing at all.

The patience they had for her made the guilt worse. She often felt as though she were depriving them. Albus' look was indescribable when she'd mentioned it in a side comment one day.

"Please, Hope," he had said, "if you're to ever take any advice I give, let it be this. Do not let others' wants overshadow your needs."

Hope sat in the window of Albus' office now, watching large birds fly back and forth from the castle grounds and the forest. They seemed to be making a nest, weaving intricate patterns.

Spring was here, and it could be felt throughout the grounds. That bit of light shined through cold, gray days.

Looking past the birds, she watched Newt walk out of the forest, his gait a bit off. Favoring one leg over the other.

Hope stood and immediately started toward the door but froze. Staring at the knob a moment too long.

"Would you like company?" Albus asked from his chair by the fire, looking up with a soft smile. Blue eyes warm.

With a hard swallow, Hope took a deep breath and nodded. At least she wouldn't be by herself, which she supposed is why he offered.

"I saw Newt limping," Hope murmured, "I just want to make sure he's alright."

Albus smiled thoughtfully and closed his book. "Well, let's see if he needs any help."

Unable to help noticing his continued smile, she raised a brow. "What?" Hope asked, maybe a little too defensively.

Albus stood and set his book on the side table. "Would you like the honest answer?"

"Yes," Hope frowned, watching him.

Shrugging lightly, he smiled again. "You've been afraid to go through the castle for weeks, but the moment you saw Newt might be injured, you went for the door." Albus gave another little shrug while tucking his hands into the pockets of his smart gray suit. "Now, I'm not saying your confidence wasn't damaged that night, but one thing will always help you to maintain your courage."

Continuing to watch him with searching eyes, Hope shook her head. "What one thing?" What could possibly make her feel brave enough to risk her own safety?

"Love." Albus smiled softly, eyes twinkling.

A faint blush slowly crept along Hope's cheeks, making her smile. Taking a moment to collect herself, she turned to the door and went through with Albus not far behind.