Forbidden Love

The Unexpected Company

The Hogwarts Express was a whirlwind of activity as students caught up with friends and shared their summer stories. Inside our compartment, I was happily munching on snacks with Mattheo, Theo, Pansy, Blaise, Draco, Tom, Enzo, Charlotte, and Mellony. The conversation had been lively, and we had just finished our introductions.

Mattheo, chewing on a Chocolate Frog, took a moment to address the group. "Since we're all getting to know each other, I'm Mattheo Riddle."

Theo, with a grin, added, "I'm Theodore Nott, but you can call me Theo."

Pansy gave a friendly nod. "I'm Pansy Parkinson."

Blaise leaned casually against the seat. "I'm Blaise Zabini."

Draco, with his characteristic smirk, said, "Draco Malfoy."

Tom Riddle gave a small nod, his gaze curious. "I'm Tom Riddle."

Enzo, munching on a Honeydukes treat, introduced himself. "And I'm Lorenzo Berkshire, but everyone calls me Enzo."

Charlotte Moonstone smiled warmly. "I'm Charlotte Moonstone."

Finally, Mellony Greengrass waved. "And I'm Mellony Greengrass."

Mattheo, chewing on a Chocolate Frog, looked at me with curiosity. "So, Abigail, what's your surname?"

I smiled and said, "Please, just call me Abby."

Mattheo's eyes widened slightly, and he exchanged a glance with Draco and Theo. "Alright, Abby, what's your last name?"

Abby skeptical says "Black"

"Damn," Mattheo said, a hint of surprise in his voice. "You're a Black?"

Draco's gaze sharpened. "That's quite a name. The Blacks are known for their... distinctive reputation."

I nodded, feeling a bit self-conscious but determined. "Yes, that's right. My family has a long history in the wizarding world."

Pansy leaned in with a grin. "Well, that makes things interesting. You'll fit right in with our group."

I smiled, feeling a bit more at ease. "Thanks! I'm really looking forward to everything."

Curiosity got the better of me, and I decided to ask about their houses. "So, what houses are you all in?"

Mattheo took another bite of his Chocolate Frog. "We're all in Slytherin."

Theo nodded in agreement. "Yep, Slytherin's the house for us."

Pansy added enthusiastically, "It's a great house, full of ambition and resourcefulness."

Blaise chimed in, "And it's known for having some of the most talented students."

Draco leaned back with a smirk. "Slytherin has a strong tradition of influence and success."

Tom Riddle offered a mysterious smile. "It's a house known for its cunning and determination."

Enzo chuckled. "And don't forget, there's a lot of fun to be had too."

Charlotte and Mellony nodded along.

"Oh, I see," I said, nodding thoughtfully. "I'm actually not sure where I'll be placed yet. I'm hoping for Gryffindor, but we'll see what the Sorting Hat decides."

Draco's smirk widened, and he exchanged a look with Tom. "Gryffindor, huh? Well, if you end up there, don't expect us to be hanging out with you much."

Tom chuckled darkly. "Yeah, Gryffindor is a house full of reckless glory-seekers. They're always so eager to prove their bravery, but they're not exactly the most refined."

The comments stung, and I felt my anger rise. "Excuse me? What's wrong with Gryffindor? It's just a house like any other. It's about the person, not just the house."

Draco's expression remained unchanged. "It's not personal. It's just that Gryffindors have a reputation for being loud and self-righteous. We prefer to keep our company to those who share our values."

I took a deep breath, trying to stay calm. "So, you're saying you're only willing to be friends with people from your house? That's pretty narrow-minded."

Charlotte's eyes flashed with anger. "Hey, that's not fair! Abby's just getting to know us. She's shown nothing but kindness, and you're already putting her down."

Mattheo, who had been listening with a thoughtful expression, suddenly cut in. "Guys, guys, shut the fuck up. We don't even know her house yet. Let's not jump to conclusions."

The compartment fell silent as everyone processed Mattheo's interruption.

Tom's smile faltered, and he quickly added, "Alright, alright. We didn't mean to be rude. It's just our opinion."

Draco shrugged, clearly unbothered. "It's just the way things are. But if Abby ends up in Gryffindor, we won't let it get in the way of our time on the train."

I took another deep breath, feeling a bit more composed. "I appreciate the sentiment, but I'd prefer to be judged on who I am, not just what house I might end up in."

As the conversation shifted and the tension eased, I was grateful for Charlotte and Mattheo's defence. The Hogwarts Express continued its journey, and with each passing mile, I felt more determined to show that one's house did not define their worth or character. The adventure was beginning, and I was ready to face it with an open heart and mind.

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