Burning Love

•Career Choices•

As the morning sun streamed through the windows of the Transfiguration classroom, I settled into my seat next to Remus, my mind still buzzing from our late-night chats. Professor McGonagall stood at the front, preparing us for another lesson filled with transforming objects. I had just pulled out my parchment when I felt a gentle poke on my arm.

Turning, I found Sirius grinning at me from the other side of the aisle. He leaned closer, his voice low enough that only I could hear. "So, about that date I mentioned... any chance you're reconsidering?"

I rolled my eyes but couldn't help the smile tugging at my lips. "Sirius, we just started the term. Can't we at least get through the first week without you pestering me?"

"Oh, come on! Just one little date," he persisted, his eyes twinkling with mischief. "I promise to make it worth your while. I've got a whole evening planned—candlelight, maybe some butterbeer, and of course, my charming company."

"Charming? Is that what we're calling it?" I teased back, trying to keep my tone light. "I think you might be overselling it."

Sirius feigned hurt, placing a dramatic hand over his heart. "Ouch! My charm is legendary! You're just playing hard to get."

"Not hard to get, just not interested," I replied, leaning back slightly as McGonagall began the lesson.

He didn't give up. Instead, he leaned in even closer, his voice barely a whisper. "But what if I sweetened the deal? I could show you the best places in Hogsmeade. You'd have fun, I promise!"

"Fun with you usually means getting into some sort of trouble," I shot back, smirking. "And I'd rather not spend my evening dodging Filch."

"Filch? Please. I'm an expert at sneaking around," he said, winking at me. "I could make you the ultimate partner in crime."

"Or you could make me a partner in detention," I replied, raising an eyebrow. "Hard pass."

As the lesson progressed, Sirius continued his quiet campaign, throwing in a few exaggerated sighs and dramatic glances in my direction. I could feel my resolve starting to waver, but I shook my head internally. I enjoyed our banter too much to complicate things.

When we were finally tasked with transforming our wooden desks into small animals, Sirius leaned over again. "Okay, last offer. How about a study session instead? I promise I'll even let you win at Wizard's Chess."

I chuckled, shaking my head. "You really don't take hints, do you?"

"Not when it comes to you," he said, his expression sincere but playful. "Just think about it, Grace. You can't deny it'd be a good time."

"Fine, I'll think about it. But no promises," I said, finally relenting with a teasing smile.

"Progress!" he declared triumphantly, leaning back in his seat as if he'd just scored a victory.

I shook my head, laughing softly to myself. With Sirius around, I knew my year was going to be anything but boring. As the class continued, I felt a mix of exasperation and amusement. Perhaps there was something to be said for his persistence. But for now, I was determined to focus on my studies. The rest could wait.

After Transfiguration, I found myself summoned to Professor McGonagall's office. As I entered, the room felt warm and welcoming, filled with books and magical artifacts. McGonagall was seated at her desk, her usual stern expression softened by a hint of warmth.

"Ah, Ms. Potter," she said, looking up from her papers. "Please, have a seat. I wanted to discuss something important with you."

I settled into the chair across from her, my heart racing slightly. "Is everything all right, Professor?"