A Cruel Fate of Endless Devotion

Chapter twenty-two: Birthday Shenanigans

When Garreth and Leander realized that Melody had never had a birthday party, they decided they would organize one themselves. It was going to be the best surprise party Hogwarts had ever seen. To ensure the party's success, the ginger duo assigned tasks to everyone. While Adelaide decorated the common room, Natty and Duncan handed out invitations, Garreth locked himself in his dorm to brew his giggle juice potion to perfection. As Leander snuck as many bottles of firewhiskey from the kitchens as he could.

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"Poppy I've told you this a thousand times already, I don't want anything for my birthday" Melody said.

Finding the perfect gift for Melody's birthday was crucial to Poppy. She wanted to show her friend how much she cared and understood her. It was a way for Poppy to express her love and appreciation, and she was determined to make this birthday a memorable one for Melody. Especially since no one had done this for her in the past.

"Mel you've gone fifteen almost sixteen years without celebrating, you deserve something special" Poppy said as they stood outside Zonko's.

"You and Adelaide already surprised me with cupcakes this morning. That's more than enough" she insisted.

Before Poppy could continue to protest, another voice cut in. "Melody, is that you?"

"Ominis!" Melody exclaimed as she hugged him, taking him by surprise. It wasn't the first time she had greeted him with a warm and friendly hug, but Ominis still hadn't gotten used to the kind affection from anyone other than Anne.

"What brings you to Hogsmeade?" Melody wondered.

"Some casual shopping. I need to stock up on some potion supplies" Ominis answered."What are you two shopping for?"

"Oh nothing. We're just window shopping" Melody quickly lied. She didn't want Ominis to feel obligated to wish her a happy birthday and spend more time with her than he already was. "But I really do have to be going. I told Professor Fig I would meet him for tea this afternoon" she said after the clock struck three, the sound of the chime echoing through the village.

"I'll find you later in the common room" she told her best friend. "I'll see you at dinner, Ominis!" she said before rushing off.

"Did you get my owl?" Poppy asked the Slytherin boy as soon as Melody was far enough away.

"I did. That's why I'm here. Did you get any gift ideas from her?" Ominis asked.

"None," Poppy sighed. "She's rather stubborn about not wanting anything"

"Where has Sebastian been? I haven't seen him lately. Is he coming to her party tonight?"

Ominis pursed his lips as he carefully chose his words about Sebastian's behavior without revealing the full truth about his obsession with Salazar Slytherin's book. He wanted to address the issue sensitively to avoid unnecessary worry or panic.

"He's been busy. I'm sure he'll be there tonight"

"Make sure you're both outside the Hufflepuff common room at eight. I've got to get back to make sure everything is going according to plan. Do not be late!" Poppy exclaimed as she went running off.

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"Now, I know you said not to fuss over your birthday, but I found something that I wanted to give you," Professor Fig said. Waving his wand, summoning a small neatly wrapped box over to his desk. Melody smiled as she set down her tea to open the box.

"Professor!" She gasped.

Inside the box was a delicate pendant necklace. The necklace was crafted with intricate details, capturing the delicate petals of the flower with precision. The blue purple gem at the center shimmered with a captivating brilliance, reflecting light in every direction and adding a touch of elegance to the overall design.