Alina Nightshade doesn't think much about James Potter. Only that he seems rather keen on being annoying.
James Potter thinks Alina Nightshade is a mystery all wrapped up in a very pretty girl. And he is keen on trying to be her friend.
James Potte...
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Alina slides on her rings, the cold metal biting against her skin. Evening has fallen, and it's time for the Slug Club meeting. She already dreads it. Maybe she can make Regulus walk ahead so he has to deal with Slughorn first.
She turns toward her door, adjusting her black dress. Pearl buttons run neatly down the middle, paired with black tights. The outfit is simple yet elegant, but the constriction of the fabric only adds to her sense of unease. Smoothing the material, she opens her door and shifts the portrait entrance aside. Thankfully, no one is there yet.
Alina steps out quickly, shuts the painting behind her, and makes her way toward the sofas. Moments later, footsteps echo from the boys' dormitory. She turns just as Regulus appears, smoothing down his dark hair as his sharp gray eyes meet hers.
"Ready?" she asks.
He hums in reply, and the two of them walk together toward the common room entrance, leaving the chilly dungeon behind.
Their journey through the castle is quiet, their footsteps in sync on the stone stairs. The dim candlelight flickers against the walls, and faint moonlight spills in through narrow windows. The air is still, except for the faint rustle of their clothes.
When they reach Slughorn's office, the buzz of conversation spills out as Regulus opens the door for her. Alina steps inside, glancing around at the scattered group of students.
"Mr. Black! Miss Nightshade!" Slughorn's booming voice immediately greets them.
For Merlin's sake.
"Hello, sir," Regulus says smoothly, shaking Slughorn's hand. Alina clasps her hands behind her back, offering only a polite nod.
"Lina!" a cheerful voice calls from behind.
Alina turns, her lips twitching slightly at the sight of Lily Evans, a glass of punch in hand. Excusing herself from Slughorn and Regulus, she joins the red-haired girl.
"Hello, Lily," she says, her voice softening as they move toward a quieter corner.
"How are you?" Lily asks brightly, her smile as warm as ever.
The two fall into easy conversation, wandering the room together. They manage to avoid most of the mingling crowd, sharing pointed glances to steer clear of unwanted company. Thankfully, Snape isn't present—though Alina suspects he's been invited, given his knack for Potions.
When the dinner portion begins, Alina and Lily sit side by side, listening to Slughorn's speech with polite disinterest. His words are the same as always—a toast to their brilliance, his honor in hosting such talented individuals. Alina knows better. Most of them are there because of their family names, with a handful invited begrudgingly for actual merit.
