The Threads That Bind Us

Chapter 31

The pace of life at Hogwarts had slowed significantly since the holidays. The first couple of months back had passed quickly, and now March was already drawing to a close. Soon, the castle would be buzzing with the excitement of students heading home for the Easter holiday.

Fidelity sat in the Hufflepuff common room, a space she never grew tired of, surrounded by its earthy warmth and glowing ambiance. Settled at one of the tables, she was focused on finishing the last of her homework. With a final stroke of her quill, she completed the assigned essay. She pulled out a ruler to check the length; her parchment just barely stretching past the 18 inches Professor McGonagall had assigned.

Satisfied, Fidelity packed away her materials and wandered over to claim the couch in front of the fire, stretching her legs across its length. The common room was unusually quiet, and she relished the rare moment of solitude. Pulling out her book, she sank into its familiar world, the heat of the crackling fireplace lulling her into a state of calm.

Just as she turned the page, her fingers idly playing with the corner of the parchment, her stomach growled-a reminder that it had been a while since dinner. Being so close to the kitchens had its perks. A quick snack was only steps away, so she closed her book and slipped out of the common room.

Approaching the familiar fruit bowl painting, Fidelity reached up to tickle the pear that would grant her access to the kitchens when-

"Fidi?"

The sound of her name, spoken softly yet unmistakably, made her jump. She hadn't noticed anyone nearby when she exited the common room. Whirling around, her heart leaped in recognition.

"Noah." She exhaled in relief, her hand flying to her chest. A warm smile replaced her shock. "My goodness, you startled me."

"Sorry, love," he replied with an apologetic grin, and the nickname sent a rush of warmth through her. She fought to keep her expression neutral, hoping to hide just how much it affected her. "I was hoping to run into you. Someone mentioned the Hufflepuff common room was around here, so I thought I'd try my luck. Do you think we could talk?"

Fidelity tilted her head, curiosity mixing with a soft blush that crept onto her cheeks. "Yeah, of course. I was just heading to the kitchens for a snack. Want to join me?"

Noah's smile widened as he fell into step beside her. "I thought you'd never ask."

As they stepped into the kitchens, a wave of warmth hit them, the heat from the fires wrapping around them like a welcoming embrace. It wasn't uncomfortable-just the right temperature to sink into their bones and ward off the lingering chill of the castle's stone corridors.

Noah glanced around, taking in the bustling scene. "I've never been able to figure out how to get in here," he admitted, clearly impressed. "Thanks for showing me the trick."

Fidelity smiled, feeling a little proud. "It's a handy secret. Definitely one of the perks of being a Hufflepuff."

No sooner had they entered than a group of house-elves scurried up to them, their eyes wide with excitement, eager to attend to the newcomers.

"Good evening, Miss!" squeaked one of the house-elves, who Fidelity recognized as Pimsy. "What can we get you tonight?"

Fidelity offered a warm smile. "Hello, Pimsy, good evening to you too. What do you have?"

Pimsy rattled off a list of options at lightning speed-pastries, pies, and all manner of delicious treats. After some deliberation, Fidelity and Noah settled on an assortment of pumpkin pasties, biscuits, and treacle tart.

With their plates full, they made their way to a cozy spot by the fireplace, sinking into the soft cushions of a small couch surrounded by gleaming pots, pans, and the low hum of kitchen activity.