The Littlest Wizard

chapter 6

Bellatrix POV

The days continued to pass in a gentle rhythm, each one healing and loving the root within Malfoy Manor. With Rosalina under our care, her laughter echoing through the halls and her presence bringing a newfound warmth to our lives, everything felt almost idyllic. However, beneath this bliss, a storm was brewing—one that would soon shatter our fragile peace.

One evening, as I was helping Rosalina with her bedtime routine, she clung to my hand, her eyes filled with a mixture of exhaustion and contentment. "Mommy," she said softly, her voice a sleepy whisper, "can you stay with me until I fall asleep?"

I smiled, feeling intense affection for this little girl who had become such an integral part of our world. "Of course, darling," I replied, tucking her in and sitting beside her bed. "I'll be right here."

As she drifted off, I gently brushed a stray lock of hair from her forehead, my heart swelling with love and protectiveness. In this moment, I realized once again just how much Rosalina had changed me. She had brought out a side of me that I never knew existed—a side that was capable of deep, unconditional love.

As I sat there, lost in thought, I heard a soft knock on the door. Narcissa entered, her expression serene. "How is she?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

"She's asleep," I replied, standing up and joining Narcissa by the door. "She's becoming more comfortable every day."

Narcissa nodded, her eyes filled with a mixture of pride and affection. "You've done wonders for her, Bella," she said, her hand resting on my arm. "You've given her a sense of security and love that she desperately needed."

I smiled, feeling a deep sense of gratitude for Narcissa's unwavering support. "We've done it together," I replied, knowing that we had both played a crucial role in Rosalina's healing.

As we left the room, I felt peace wash over me. But the tranquility was soon interrupted by the sound of the front door opening. Lucius had returned, and as he stepped into the foyer, I could see that he was not alone.

A man I did not recognize stood beside him, his eyes scanning the manor with a mixture of curiosity and trepidation. Lucius glanced at us, his expression unreadable.

"Bella, Cissy," he said, his voice calm but firm. "This is Dr. Thornwood. He's here to help us with Rosalina's...unique needs."

I felt a surge of protectiveness rise within me. "We don't need help," I said, my voice sharper than I intended. "We are taking care of her just fine."

Lucius raised a hand to calm me. "I know," he replied, his tone gentle. "But Dr. Thornwood specializes in child psychology. He can offer insights and strategies that might help us support Rosalina even better."

I glanced at Narcissa, who gave a subtle nod. Reluctantly, I turned to Dr. Thornwood, my expression guarded. "Alright," I said, my voice softer. "Let's hear what he has to say."

Over the next few days, Dr. Thornwood observed our interactions with Rosalina and provided valuable advice on how to navigate her regression and trauma. His presence, though initially met with resistance, soon became a source of support and guidance.

One afternoon, as I sat with Rosalina in the garden, helping her pick flowers, Dr. Thornwood joined us. "Rosalina," he said gently, kneeling down beside her, "you've made such wonderful progress. How are you feeling today?"

Rosalina looked up, her eyes bright with happiness. "I'm happy," she said simply, her smile lighting up her face.

Dr. Thornwood smiled warmly. "I'm glad to hear that," he replied, turning to me. "You've done an incredible job, Bellatrix. Your love and dedication have made all the difference."