Love In The Shadows | Fred Weasley x OC

Chapter 55

Chapter 55: New Beginnings

A month had passed since Adhara had sent her application to the Ministry of Magic, and anticipation gnawed at her every waking moment. She had been counting the days, her thoughts oscillating between hope and anxiety. What if they didn't choose her? What if she wasn't good enough? The constant chatter of self-doubt echoed in her mind as she went about her daily life.

Life at the Burrow remained vibrant and full of warmth. The excitement surrounding the expansion kept everyone in high spirits, and Adhara found comfort in the love and camaraderie that enveloped her.

One sunny afternoon, while Adhara was sitting in the cozy nook of the Burrow, immersed in a book about magical law, she heard the familiar sound of an owl flapping its wings outside the window. Her heart raced as she rose to open the window, hoping against hope that it was the Ministry responding to her application.

As she pulled the window open, the owl landed gracefully on the sill, holding a letter in its beak. "Thank you," she murmured, gently taking the letter and offering the owl a treat before it flew off. Her hands trembled slightly as she broke the Ministry's seal and unfolded the parchment.

---

Dear Ms. Malfoy,

We are pleased to inform you that, having graduated at the top of your class with outstanding academic achievements, you have been selected for an interview for the prestigious apprentice position at the Wizengamot. Your exceptional grades and remarkable performance have impressed us, and we are eager to explore how your qualifications can contribute to our team.

The interview has been scheduled for the 15th of next month. We look forward to discussing your experiences, skills, and aspirations in greater detail.

We wish you the best of luck in your preparation.

Sincerely,
The Ministry of Magic

---

Adhara's heart soared as she read the letter, disbelief mingling with elation. She had done it! The reality of her dream began to crystallize before her eyes, and a wide grin broke across her face. "I can't believe it!" she exclaimed, clutching the letter to her chest.

"Believe what?" Fred asked, poking his head into the room, his curiosity piqued.

"I got an interview with the Ministry! For the apprentice position!" Adhara beamed, unable to contain her excitement. She could see the pride gleaming in Fred's eyes as he stepped fully into the room.

"See? I told you you were more than qualified!" he said, his voice filled with enthusiasm. He closed the distance between them, wrapping her in a warm embrace. "You're going to knock their socks off, Addy."

Adhara laughed, feeling buoyed by his support. "I hope so. I've got to prepare for it. I want this so badly!"

"Then let's get to work! We'll have a study session right here and now. I'll quiz you on everything you need to know," Fred suggested, his eyes sparkling with mischief. "And I promise to be a very stern and demanding professor."

"Great! Just what I need," she teased, rolling her eyes but unable to suppress her smile. They settled at the kitchen table, filled with an array of books and notes. Fred took it upon himself to prepare questions while Adhara diligently answered each one, her determination driving her focus.

The days leading up to the interview passed in a blur of preparation and shared laughter. Fred remained by her side, encouraging her every step of the way, even when she struggled to recall a particular magical statute. His unwavering belief in her abilities fueled her confidence, and as the interview date approached, she felt more ready than ever.