Alina Nightshade doesn't think much about James Potter. Only that he seems rather keen on being annoying.
James Potter thinks Alina Nightshade is a mystery all wrapped up in a very pretty girl. And he is keen on trying to be her friend.
James Potte...
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Alina gazes up at the sky, watching as snowflakes drift down, light enough to be almost gentle. She is grateful it isn't heavier; too much snow would make the trip unbearable.
It's Hogsmeade weekend, and she'll be setting off to the village soon. She doesn't plan to wait for Barty.
Her birthday is just days away.
This birthday lingers more heavily in her mind than those in previous years. Perhaps it's because she will soon turn sixteen, the age when marriage proposals start coming her way.
Alina tells herself she has accepted her future, accepted her fate, but it's a lie. She doesn't want to marry a stranger, doesn't want to be forced into having children.
She doesn't want to become her mother.
"Alina!" A soft voice calls her name, pulling her from her thoughts.
She turns to see Lily, Mary, and Marlene walking toward her.
"Hello," Alina greets them with a nod. Marlene steps beside her, flashing a grin.
"Walk with us?" Marlene asks, her choppy blonde hair adorned with a few braids.
Alina hesitates for a moment before replying, "Sure." The three girls smile, and they start walking together.
"I can't believe it's already January," Mary mutters, pulling her jacket tighter around her.
"This year has gone by fast," Alina replies, squinting against the falling snow.
Marlene turns to her with a knowing look. "I'm sure it's felt slow for you, with Potter and his misfits tormenting you."
Alina feels the urge to laugh—actually laugh—but quickly restrains herself. She returns Marlene's look with a smirk. "It has been truly horrid."
She's just relieved she hasn't had to tutor James lately; his grades have improved enough to give her a break.
Lily laughs softly, her cheeks flushed from the cold.
When they finally reach the village, the girls part ways, each heading off to shop for different things.
Alina makes her way to the bookstore. The stone pathway beside the shops is dusted with snow, but thankfully, it isn't too deep. The village is quiet today.
Still, her eyes wander, unconsciously searching for someone.
She shakes off the feeling and steps inside the bookstore. Warm air greets her as she walks down an aisle, hoping the person behind the counter won't try to make conversation.
She hopes no one will speak to her at all.
Alina's gaze sweeps over the shelves before she heads to the Muggle literature section. The shop is nearly empty, as far as she can see.
