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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Valentine's Day arrives, and Alina finds herself glaring at the enchanted hearts fluttering above the Great Hall doors.
They twirl and dance in the air, spreading a sickly sweet charm that makes her skin crawl.
She's already witnessed enough couples fawning over each other—some doing far more than that in the Slytherin common room. A shudder of revulsion runs down her spine as she steps into the Great Hall for breakfast, the festivities feeling even more unbearable with the upcoming dance to be hosted there.
Disgusting. If she has to watch one more couple snogging, she might actually consider jumping off the Astronomy Tower.
"You look like you've seen a ghost," James's voice pulls her from her thoughts. He approaches from behind, wearing a mischievous smile.
"I've seen too many couples shagging for my taste," Alina replies, her expression sour. "I think I might throw up."
James chuckles, his hair slightly less messy than usual, though still characteristically untamed. "Better not look at the Hufflepuff table, then."
"Salazar," Alina mutters in disgust.
James's laughter is soft but genuine. "You are going to the dance, though, right?" He tilts his head, curiosity glinting in his eyes.
Alina nods reluctantly. She's going with Regulus, a match approved by both their parents. "I am. I'm guessing you're going too?"
"Yes," James confirms, his eyes sweeping the hall as he steps closer, standing beside her.
"Who did you ask to go with you?" Alina tries to keep her tone detached, her gaze drifting to the Slytherin table as if she couldn't care less about his answer. She doesn't care. She can't care. He can take whoever he wants, even if the idea of seeing him with someone else makes her blood boil.
"No one," James shrugs nonchalantly. "Unless my friends count."
Alina hums, pretending indifference. "I'll see you at the dance, then." She turns to leave but pauses. "Bye, James."
"Goodbye, Sunshine," he teases, the nickname earning an exaggerated eye roll from her before she makes her way to the Slytherin table. Barty and his group haven't arrived yet, leaving her momentarily alone.
She has barely sat down when Marlene slides into the seat across from her, a mischievous smirk playing on her lips. "Why, hello, Alina."
"Marlene," Alina greets, her eyes narrowing suspiciously.
"The girls and I were wondering if you'd like to get ready for the dance with us in our dorm?" Marlene offers, her tone light but inviting.
Alina's eyebrows lift in mild surprise. "Sure, what time?"
"Around six? It depends on how long it takes you to get ready since the dance starts at eight," Marlene replies, her smile warm and genuine.
"I'll be there," Alina agrees, feeling an unexpected warmth blooming in her chest. These girls have been kind to her—kinder than she often feels she deserves.
