Reflections - Mattheo Riddle

Intercepted?

Kirra felt happier for the rest of the weekend than she had done all term. Kirra and the boys spent much of Sunday catching up with all their homework again, and although this could hardly be called fun, the last burst of autumn sunshine persisted, so rather than sitting hunched over tables in the common room, they took their work outside and lounged in the shade of a large beech tree on the edge of the lake. 

Mattheo, who of course was up to date with all his work, was just laying on his back on the grass, eyes closed as he enjoyed the breeze on his face.  Kirra had managed to do most of her work, so now she was helping Jasper with his whilst also finishing off her own, and Theodore was working on his own. 

The knowledge that they were doing something to resist Umbridge and the Ministry, and that Kirra was a key part of the rebellion, gave her a feeling of immense satisfaction. She kept reliving Saturday's meeting in her mind: all those people, coming to Harry and her to learn Defense Against the Dark Arts . . . and the looks on their faces as they had heard some of the things they had done . . . and having the possibility to help her friends get stronger so they could defend themselves. . . . 

As the afternoon stretched on, the atmosphere beneath the beech tree remained relaxed yet productive. Kirra and Jasper worked together on their assignments, occasionally sharing quiet laughs or exchanging notes on particularly challenging questions. Theodore, absorbed in his own tasks, periodically glanced up from his parchment to take in the serene surroundings.

Mattheo, content to bask in the warmth of the sun, listened to the sounds of his friends' collaboration, a small smile playing on his lips. Despite the weighty topics that often dominated their conversations, moments like these reminded him of the simple joy of companionship.

As the day wore on, they took occasional breaks to stretch their legs and stroll along the lakeshore, the crisp autumn air invigorating their spirits. They talked about everything and nothing, relishing the opportunity to simply enjoy each other's company without the specter of impending danger looming over them.

Jasper and Mattheo watched with amusement, as Theodore and Kirra splashed each other on the waters edge. Kirra let out an excited squeal before jumping onto Theodore's back. 

As Kirra leaped onto Theodore's back, he stumbled forward, laughing uproariously as he struggled to maintain his balance. With Kirra clinging to him, they stumbled into the shallows, sending a cascade of water splashing around them.

"Oi, watch it!" Theodore exclaimed, playfully attempting to shake Kirra off as they both laughed uncontrollably.

Mattheo and Jasper, standing on the shore, couldn't help but grin at the sight. Mattheo nudged Jasper with his elbow, a twinkle in his eye. "Looks like they're having fun," he remarked, his voice filled with affection.

Jasper nodded, a smile spreading across his face. "Yeah, they are," he agreed, his gaze fixed on Kirra and Theodore. "It's good to see them like this."

Mattheo nodded his head softly... it was good to see them like this. So happy and carefree, not stressed about all the shit that was going on around them.  It was like looking at them in their second year when they were all so care free before everything really started to turn to shit 

As the sun dipped lower in the sky, casting long shadows across the grounds, they finally packed up their books and belongings, reluctant to leave the tranquility of their spot beneath the tree. With a shared sense of contentment, they made their way back to the castle, the memory of their peaceful afternoon together serving as a beacon of hope in the uncertain days ahead.

She had gone to bed happy that Sunday, in the arms of Mattheo, having a sense of hope that maybe it would all be alright, and if a war were to start, her friends wouldn't die.