Love In The Shadows | Fred Weasley x OC

Chapter 29

Chapter 29: Plans for Graduation

Winter transitioned to spring, excitement and anticipation filled the air at Hogwarts. The reality of graduation loomed closer, and students buzzed with mixed feelings of exhilaration and anxiety about what lay ahead. For Adhara Malfoy, the thought of leaving the castle she had called home for seven years brought a blend of joy and uncertainty.

Settling into an oversized bench in the courtyard, Adhara took in the familiar surroundings—the warm glow of the afternoon sun, the scent of blooming flowers, and the faint sound of laughter from her classmates nearby. Across the courtyard, Fred Weasley lounged on a low wall, casually tossing a quaffle from hand to hand, his usual carefree demeanor shining through. He caught her gaze and flashed a wide grin, prompting her to smile in return.

"Are you excited for graduation, Addy?" Fred called out, breaking the comfortable silence that had enveloped her.

Adhara looked up, a smile forming at the nickname he'd grown fond of. "I guess. It feels surreal, though. Can you believe we're finally almost done?"

"I know! It feels like just yesterday we were first-years, trying to figure out how to find our way around this place," he said, a nostalgic smile lighting up his face.

Adhara chuckled. "Right? And now we're about to step into the real world."

Fred leaned forward, his enthusiasm bubbling over. "And think of all the possibilities! We can do whatever we want."

"What do you mean?" Adhara asked, tilting her head.

"Travel, start new adventures—anything! The world is wide open for us, Addy," he replied, his excitement contagious.

"Yeah, but it's a bit daunting, isn't it?" she mused, biting her lip. "What if we don't know what to do?"

Fred waved a hand dismissively. "That's the fun part! Figuring it out as we go. We'll support each other through it. I promise."

Feeling the warmth of his unwavering support, Adhara smiled softly, "Promise me you won't leave me."

Fred's expression softened, his usual playfulness giving way to something deeper. "I won't leave you, Addy," he replied earnestly, his gaze steady and full of reassurance. "No matter what happens, I'll be here—for you, with you. You'll never be alone, I promise."

Adhara's heart swelled at his words, knowing that their bond had deepened over the years. "I'm glad we have each other," she replied sincerely.

"Speaking of plans, what are your thoughts about after graduation? Have you given it any serious consideration?" Fred asked, his tone shifting to curiosity.

Adhara sighed, her brow furrowing slightly. "To be honest, I haven't thought too much about it. I guess I should start, though."

"Why not start now?" Fred suggested. "You could explore different paths, see what interests you."

"Maybe," Adhara said, her mind racing.

Fred grinned. "Well, we've got time to figure it out. There's no rush! Besides, you could always join me in the joke business."

Adhara laughed. "You and George are already running the show. I don't think I could keep up with that chaos."

"It's not all chaos," Fred protested, his tone playful. "We have a system. You just need to find your niche!"

Adhara shook her head, her smile lingering. "I don't think I'm cut out for a life of pranks and jokes, Fred. But I admire you for it."

"Hey, just think about it! It could be fun," he urged, leaning closer as if trying to convince her. "And you'd be the brains of the operation. I mean, who wouldn't want to work with me?"

"You're certainly persistent," Adhara said, rolling her eyes playfully.

Fred feigned offense, placing a hand dramatically over his heart. "Ouch, Addy! You wound me. I'm merely suggesting an exciting opportunity!"

Adhara chuckled, grateful for his lightheartedness. "I appreciate it, Fred. I really do. But right now, I just want to enjoy the time we have left here."

"Agreed," he replied, his expression shifting to one of earnestness. "Let's make the most of it. We should create some unforgettable memories before we leave this place."

"Absolutely," Adhara said, her excitement rekindled. "We should go explore the grounds more, or maybe visit Hogsmeade. Just something to remember our time here."

"Count me in! I'm always up for a good adventure," Fred said enthusiastically. "What's a little exploring compared to what we've faced together?"

With a newfound sense of adventure, Adhara felt a wave of optimism wash over her. "I can't believe we're actually graduating, Fred. It feels like a chapter is ending."

"True, but think of it as a beginning too!" Fred said, his eyes sparkling. "It's a chance for us to write our own stories. And who knows what's next for us?"

Adhara nodded, her heart racing at the thought. "Yeah, it could be anything. The possibilities are endless."

"Exactly! So let's make a pact," Fred suggested, leaning in closer. "No matter what happens, we'll keep in touch and always support each other. Deal?"

Adhara grinned widely, her eyes shining. "Deal. I wouldn't want it any other way."

In that moment, they were two young souls, standing on the edge of something unknown yet thrilling, ready to face whatever came next—together. A quiet sense of promise filled the air between them, binding them closer with each shared glance.

"Addy," Fred said suddenly, his tone soft yet certain, breaking through her thoughts. He took a step closer, the warmth in his gaze unwavering. "No matter where we end up, I need you to know... you're one of my favorite people. You always have been."

Adhara felt her heart skip, her usual composure faltering as his words sank in. "You mean that?"

He nodded, a small smile playing on his lips. "Every word. You've got this light, Addy—like no one else. Being around you... it's like everything just makes sense."

Adhara's heart fluttered at his words. "You're one of mine too, Fred."

"Let's make these last few months unforgettable," he said, his voice earnest.

"Absolutely," she replied, her eyes meeting his with sincerity.

In that moment, surrounded by laughter and camaraderie, Adhara knew that whatever challenges lay ahead, they would face them together. The uncertainty of the future was daunting, but with Fred by her side, it felt less intimidating. They were ready to embrace whatever awaited them, and together, they would navigate the uncharted waters of adulthood.