Burning Love

•Back To Hogwarts•

As we approached the Hogwarts Express, the familiar sounds of laughter and chatter filled the air, a mix of excitement and nostalgia washing over us. It was our sixth year at Hogwarts, and the train station was bustling with students eager to start another adventure. I glanced around, taking in the sight of friends reuniting, and immediately spotted Sirius leaning against a pillar, looking effortlessly charming as always.

"Hey, Grace!" he called out, flashing a grin that made my stomach flutter. "Ready for another year of mischief?"

"Always," I replied, rolling my eyes playfully. "But maybe this year we should focus on our studies... a little."

"Where's the fun in that?" he winked, pushing off the pillar and falling into step beside me as we walked toward the train.

James was a few paces ahead, trying to catch Lily's attention as she chatted with Alice. "Lily! Wait up!" he shouted, running to catch up with her. I could see the familiar gleam in his eyes—the kind that signaled another round of relentless flirting.

"James, I'm not in the mood for your antics today," Lily said with a laugh, but her tone was light.

Sirius leaned closer to me, whispering, "He doesn't stand a chance, does he? I mean, she's way too smart for him."

"Let him have his fun," I replied, trying to suppress a smile. "Besides, it's entertaining to watch."

As we climbed aboard the train, the compartment doors slid open and closed, laughter spilling from every car. We settled into one of the seats, and just as I was about to take out my book, I noticed Severus Snape passing by, his dark hair hanging in his face.

"Look who it is," Sirius said, his voice dripping with mockery. "The Potions Prince himself."

James snickered, leaning back in his seat. "What's wrong, Snivellus? Lost in thought about your latest potion disaster?"

Severus shot us a glare, his expression a mix of annoyance and disdain. "Grow up, Black. You're not funny."

"Sure I am," Sirius replied, a smirk playing on his lips. "Just ask your mum. Oh wait, she's too busy with the rest of the Slytherin rejects!"

"Guys, come on," I said, trying to rein them in. "We're supposed to be above this."

James shrugged, feigning innocence. "It's all in good fun, Grace. Besides, he's always lurking around like a shadow."

"Yeah, let's lighten up the mood," Sirius added, elbowing me playfully. "How about we discuss what kind of trouble we can get into this year?"

Just then, the train lurched forward, and we all settled into our seats, the landscape blurring past the windows. I glanced at James, who was still trying to get Lily's attention, and then at Sirius, who was now leaning closer to me, his voice low and teasing.

"You know, I'm really looking forward to Quidditch this year," he said, his eyes sparkling. "Maybe I'll show you some of my 'special' training techniques."

"Training techniques? Is that what you call it?" I shot back, grinning.

"Absolutely. Just you wait; I'll have you cheering for me by the end of the season," he replied, his tone flirtatious.

"Yeah, if you can actually stay on your broom long enough to score a goal," I teased.

Sirius laughed, the sound warm and infectious. It felt good to be in this familiar routine, surrounded by friends, even if it included a bit of light-hearted teasing at Severus's expense. The train ride was filled with chatter, laughter, and the promise of another unforgettable year at Hogwarts. Little did we know, this year would be full of surprises, challenges, and plenty of new adventures.