Love In The Shadows | Fred Weasley x OC

Chapter 20

Chapter 20: Back at Hogwarts

The familiar hustle and bustle of King's Cross Station greeted Adhara as she stepped through the barrier between Platforms 9 and 10. The aroma of roasted chestnuts and the sounds of families reuniting filled the air, but all Adhara could focus on was the nagging feeling that lingered since the Christmas break. It had been a tense holiday, marked by family expectations and unspoken pressures, and now she was back at Hogwarts, ready to face whatever awaited her.

"Do you think Father will make it?" Draco asked, glancing around the crowded station. His expression betrayed a hint of disappointment.

Adhara shook her head. "He's probably too busy with... whatever it is he does," she replied, trying to sound dismissive but feeling a pang of disappointment herself. "At least Mother's here."

Just then, Narcissa Malfoy appeared, gliding through the throng of people. She wore a serene smile that brightened the drab winter day, her elegant robes flowing gracefully behind her. "There you are!" she called, spotting her children. "I thought I'd lost you in this crowd."

"Sorry, Mother," Draco replied, trying to lighten the mood. "I was just wondering if Father would join us."

Narcissa's smile faltered for a moment before she quickly masked her disappointment. "He had prior commitments, but he sends his regards." Her tone was light, but Adhara could sense the underlying strain.

When they made their way to the Hogwarts Express, Vera joined them, her eyes bright with excitement. "I can't believe we're heading back already! The holidays went by so fast," she exclaimed, falling into step beside Adhara.

Adhara smiled, grateful for Vera's cheerful presence. "I know, right? It felt like we just got home."

Once they reached the train, Adhara, Draco, and Vera stepped inside. Narcissa waved goodbye to them as they found a compartment. The atmosphere buzzed with energy and laughter as students reunited after the break. Adhara felt a mix of excitement and nervousness, eager to be back among friends.

As they settled in, Draco turned to them. "I'm going to sit with Blaise and Pansy," he said, glancing at his friends waiting a few compartments down. "I'll see you at the feast later." With a nod, he stood up, making his way toward the Slytherin compartment, leaving Adhara and Vera alone.

"Are you ready for whatever madness Fred and George are planning?" Vera asked with a grin, settling into her seat.

Adhara couldn't help but chuckle. "I doubt they'll let us have a peaceful train ride."

"Good! We need some excitement," Vera replied, her eyes sparkling with anticipation. "I'm sure they'll be up to something."

After a while, Fred Weasley leaned into their compartment, his signature grin plastered across his face. "Look who we have here! The lovely Adhara and her entourage of Gryffindor mischief-makers!"

Adhara felt warmth bloom in her chest at the sight of him. "You always know how to make an entrance, don't you?" she replied, unable to suppress a smile.

"Only the best for my favorite Slytherin," Fred said, his tone playful. "What are you lot plotting in here? Should I be worried?"

"Just discussing your inevitable failure to prank the first-years," Vera teased, leaning forward. "You'd better step up your game, Weasley."

Fred feigned offense, placing a hand over his heart. "Me? Fail? Impossible! I thrive on chaos. Besides, I've got a few tricks up my sleeve for the next Quidditch match. Just you wait!"

Adhara rolled her eyes but couldn't help but laugh. "I'm sure you'll manage to make a fool of yourself in the process."

"Is there a difference?" he replied, leaning back and crossing his arms with a mock-serious expression.

While chatting, the train began to pull away from the station, the scenery outside shifting from the bustling city to the tranquil countryside. The warmth of the compartment enveloped them as laughter filled the air, and Adhara felt a sense of belonging wash over her.

After a while, Fred leaned closer, lowering his voice as if sharing a secret. "So, how was your holiday? Did you survive the family chaos?"

Adhara sighed, leaning back against the seat. "It was... interesting. Lots of discussions about the future and expectations. You know how it is." She glanced at him, gauging his reaction.

Fred nodded knowingly. "Yeah, my family can be a handful too sometimes. And... sorry I couldn't get you anything fancy for your birthday. But hey, we're back together now. Just think of all the trouble we can get into!" He flashed her a grin, his eyes twinkling with mischief, and Adhara felt a flicker of warmth at his unshakable optimism.

"It's alright, Weasley. Your letters were more than enough." She raised an eyebrow, a playful glint in her eyes. "Fun? Or are you thinking more along the lines of mischief?"

"Is there a difference?" he replied, his tone playful.

Adhara laughed, feeling lighter. "Maybe not in your world, Fred."

The train continued on its journey, and the atmosphere grew lively. The sound of laughter and chatter filled the air, mingling with the clatter of snack bags being opened. Adhara felt a sense of belonging wash over her, as if Hogwarts wrapped her in a familiar embrace.

"So, what's your plan for the term?" Fred asked, his expression curious. "More studying, or do you plan on joining me in a few pranks?"

Adhara chuckled. "I think I'll stick to my studies. Someone has to keep their grades up."

Fred pretended to pout. "You're no fun! But I guess we'll see who can outwit the other in the end."

As they approached the castle, the excitement in the air was palpable. The Great Hall would soon be filled with students, laughter, and the delightful smell of food. Adhara's anticipation grew, and she felt grateful for the warmth of friendship surrounding her.

When they finally arrived, Fred led the way as they filed out of the train. Adhara felt a mix of nerves and excitement as they stepped onto the platform. She spotted Draco talking animatedly with Pansy and Blaise, his demeanor lighthearted, which was a welcome change.

"Ready to make some memories this term?" Fred asked, nudging Adhara playfully.

"Absolutely," she replied, feeling a renewed sense of determination. "Let's make this one for the books."

With that, they entered the Great Hall, laughter and chatter surrounding them. As they took their seats at the Gryffindor table, Adhara glanced over at Draco, who caught her eye and offered a small smile. It felt good to be back, surrounded by friends, ready to face the challenges and adventures that awaited them in the new term.