The Hollow Beneath Hogwarts

91. Hush

The adults had, in fact, been waiting for them.

No sooner had the last plates vanished from the breakfast table than a chorus of good mornings met the group from every corner of the staff table. There was something oddly coordinated about it all. Kingsley, McGonagall, Joanna, Narcissa, Molly, Arthur, Newt, Tina, Mrs Zabini and Bill all seemed to exchange knowing glances.

Sloane immediately narrowed her eyes. "That look means trouble," she informed Draco.

"It does," Draco agreed.

"We aren't in trouble, are we?" Blaise asked hopefully.

"Probably," Ron sighed.

"Definitely," Hermione corrected.

Professor McGonagall's lips twitched. "You are not in trouble."

"That's exactly what people say right before you're in trouble," Harry muttered.

The Headmistress rolled her eyes. "Would you all kindly stop being dramatic and follow us? There is something we need you to see."

That immediately caught everyone's attention.

Something they needed to see?

The adults were already rising from their seats.

"Oh, and Mr Nott, Miss Greengrass," McGonagall added as an afterthought. "You should come as well."

Theo blinked. "Us?"

"Yes, you."

Daphne glanced at Theo. "Why?"

Professor McGonagall adjusted her glasses. "Because at this stage you are both just as involved as everyone else."

That statement did absolutely nothing to reassure them.

As the rest of Hogwarts began filtering out of the Great Hall, the unusual gathering moved in the opposite direction. Students poured towards the Entrance Hall in excited clusters, eager for a Saturday free of classes. Some headed towards the castle grounds. Others were already making plans for Hogsmeade. A few disappeared towards the library carrying towers of books.

The group, however, followed the adults through the bustling foyer.

Goose rode happily on Sloane's shoulder, his tiny paws gripping her jumper while he watched the crowds move around them.

The moment they entered the security corridor, however, the little Niffler suddenly froze. His dark eyes widened. Then he let out a delighted squeak.

Before Sloane could react, he launched himself from her shoulder like a furry missile.

"Goose!" she yelped.

Newt Scamander barely had time to lift his arms before the Niffler landed on his shoulder and immediately began climbing over him. Newt chuckled. "Hello, Goose."

The little creature made several rapid squeaking noises.

Newt nodded seriously. "I did."

More squeaks.

"I thought she and Draco would make good parents."

Draco nearly walked into a wall. "What?"

Sloane's entire face turned scarlet.

Theo immediately burst out laughing.

Mrs Zabini looked absolutely delighted.

Goose continued his excited commentary.

"Well, I am very glad to hear it," Newt replied.

More squeaks followed. Longer this time. Newt listened attentively. Several of the adults were trying—and failing—not to smile.