KEEP IT, LOSE IT (HOGWARTS LEGACY FANFICTION)

chapter forty-nine

As the warmth of the bath settled in, the three of them, now more at ease, started talking about everyday topics—school, their classes, and the inevitable load of homework that awaited them tomorrow. The conversation was light and filled with the occasional sarcasm and banter that had become their norm.

Eventually, Mary brought up a more serious topic, her curiosity piqued by the thought of what life might hold for them after Hogwarts.

"So," she began, leaning her head back as the vanilla-scented steam rose around them. "What do you both want to do after we graduate?"

Sebastian was the first to answer, a gleam of excitement in his eyes. 

"I want to be free, you know? Not tied down. A life of action, adventure, and mystery." He paused, thinking about his sister. "Maybe I'll become an Auror. It's dangerous, sure, but it's the kind of life where you never know what'll happen next. And with the pay, I could make sure Anne has everything she needs—a better life."

Ominis listened quietly, his expression thoughtful as he considered Sebastian's words. When it was his turn to speak, his voice was calm, almost soothing. 

"I don't want a life full of chaos and danger. I've had enough of that. I'd rather open a small bar in Hogsmeade, a place where people can come to unwind, share their stories, and forget their worries for a while. I've always liked listening to others more than being in the thick of things. Let others live the adventures—I'll enjoy hearing about them over a glass of Firewhisky."

Mary couldn't help but smile at the contrast between their dreams. Sebastian's restless spirit yearned for excitement, while Ominis craved a life of peace and quiet. She could almost picture it—Sebastian running headfirst into danger, always one step ahead, while Ominis stayed behind, offering sage advice over a drink.

As their gazes turned toward her, she realized it was her turn to share. By now, her hair was completely soaked, a thick layer of moisturizing mask applied generously to her locks. She looked almost ethereal in the misty light of the bath, her features softened by the steam.

"What about you, Mary?" Sebastian asked, his tone curious yet gentle.

"Yeah," Ominis added, leaning in slightly as if he could sense her hesitation. "What kind of life do you want after all this?"

Mary bit her lip, her thoughts swirling in different directions. 

"I... I'm not sure," she admitted. "Part of me wants a life full of adventures. There's so much out there to see and do, and I don't want to miss any of it. But at the same time..." She paused, struggling to find the right words. "I also want moments of peace. I want to be able to enjoy a quiet evening by the fire, surrounded by people I care about. I guess I'm looking for a life that balances both—the thrill of the unknown and the comfort of the familiar."

Her response was met with thoughtful silence from both boys. Sebastian and Ominis exchanged a glance, each recognizing how Mary's desires reflected a blend of their own—Sebastian's craving for adventure and Ominis's longing for peace. It was clear that Mary's heart was pulled in two different directions, just as theirs were.

"That sounds like quite the life, Mary," Ominis finally said, his voice low and sincere. "One where you get the best of both worlds."

"Yeah," Sebastian added, a soft smile playing on his lips. "You deserve that. And whatever happens, I'm sure you'll make it happen."

Mary looked between them, her heart warming. The three of them, despite their differences, were united in their desire to find happiness and fulfillment, each in their own way. For a moment, she could almost see it—a future where their lives intertwined, filled with both adventure and peace, the kind of life she truly longed for.