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Earlier that day, as Josephine strolled to her class, Dumbledore discreetly passed her a letter. The weight of unspoken questions about her parents gnawed at her, making it tempting to confront him right then and there.
However, she understands the importance of timing. Acting too hastily could jeopardize her plans, so she bides her time, waiting for the perfect moment. Blinking, she shakes herself from her thoughts.
In the quiet sanctuary of a library corner, Josephine unfolds the letter and begins to read. It is an invitation to an Order meeting, revealing the time but curiously omitting the location. Her brow furrows as she continues reading.
She realizes that she will be joining Dumbledore and fellow Order members, including James, in his office. They haven't spoken since he told her he knew about her being adopted, yet she can't ignore the possibility that he wants to mend their relationship.
There is also the chance that Fleamont and Euphemia will be present. She hasn't thought this through, but her quest for information regarding Tom leaves her with no choice but to attend the meeting.
The meeting is just around the corner, providing her with an hour to mentally prepare herself. Josephine knows she needs to decide how to handle the situation. Perhaps James genuinely wants to apologize and rebuild their bond; she can ponder her stance on that later.
Regarding Fleamont, he clearly hadn't received the reaction he desired during their confrontation, hence his hostile actions. He wants her to fear him. So she would play the role of a girl who did not care about him. Who was not afraid. Even though she is so afraid to face him, that she could cry.
Euphemia and James might also harbor guilt, making it easier for Josephine to adopt a similar persona of indifference. It won't affect them as deeply as Fleamont, but it is a necessary strategy.
Josie would not say that she was suddenly mentally better after talking with Regulus. She still felt upset but talking with Regulus did help. But it didn't stop the feelings of sadness knowing that she would never meet her parents ever.
~~~
Her expression turns icy as she raps her knuckles on Dumbledore's office door.
Faint murmurs reach her ears, indicating that only a handful of students are part of the Order. She surmises she is the youngest among them. These students, including herself, can't engage in missions but are entrusted with gathering information and watching for potential threats to the light side, as Dumbledore has explained.
However, the students are privy to only limited information. That's why Dumbledore would send them back to Hogwarts when matters turn dire. So really there was no point in even going to these meetings. That's another reason she knew Tom wanted something else.
The door swings open, revealing Dumbledore wearing a gentle smile. "Ah, Miss Potter, come in," he welcomes her.
With great effort, she forces a feigned smile at the man who got her parents killed and enters the room.
