Carina Gray is a sharp-witted, fiercely loyal Slytherin with a knack for mischief and a heart of gold she tries hard to keep hidden. Known for her bold sense of humor and unwavering courage, she isn't afraid to stand up for her friends, even if it m...
The chill of winter had settled over Hogwarts, the castle's high stone walls adorned with festive garlands of holly and ivy. Snow gently blanketed the grounds outside, and inside, the warmth of the hearths and twinkling lights gave the corridors a cozy glow. It was the last day before the start of the Christmas holidays, and the Great Hall was abuzz with students saying their goodbyes, packed trunks and excited chatter filling the air.
Carina lingered near the entrance, feeling a knot tighten in her stomach as she watched her friends prepare to leave. Most students were going home for the holidays, but she was staying behind at Hogwarts—there was no way she was going back to that awful orphanage. Even though she tried to focus on the positives, knowing she'd have the castle nearly to herself, the thought of spending Christmas without most of her friends felt heavy.
"Carina!" a familiar voice called out, pulling her from her thoughts. Daphne and Pansy rushed over, their faces flushed from the cold, their trunks levitating behind them.
"You sure you don't want to come with one of us?" Pansy asked, her voice surprisingly warm for once. "It's not too late to change your mind."
Carina forced a smile, shaking her head. "No, I'll be fine. I'm staying here with Enzo and Mattheo."
Daphne stepped closer, wrapping her arms around Carina in a sudden hug. "We'll miss you," she said quietly. "It won't be the same without you."
Carina returned the hug, feeling a lump form in her throat. Despite their sharp Slytherin edges, the girls had become like sisters to her. "You better write," she muttered, her voice a little hoarse. "And bring me something back from wherever you're both going."
Pansy grinned, pulling Carina into another hug. "We'll bring you the best," she promised. "But seriously, don't have too much fun without us."
Carina chuckled softly. "I'll try not to."
As the girls finally pulled away, Blaise, Theo, and Draco approached, their bags slung over their shoulders.
Blaise gave Carina a lazy smile. "Staying behind, huh? I'll be honest, I'm surprised you're not making a break for it like the rest of us."
She smirked, crossing her arms. "I wouldn't miss the peace and quiet. Besides, I'm not leaving Enzo to burn the place down."
Theo chuckled, giving her a half-hug. "It won't be the same with you not around me, causing trouble. But we'll see you after the holidays."
Draco, for once, looked a little uncertain, as if he wasn't quite sure how to say goodbye. After a moment, he simply shrugged and gave her a small nod. "Don't do anything stupid while we're gone."
