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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"Lina!" Marlene's voice rings out in the stone corridor, followed by the unmistakable sound of hurried footsteps. Alina, already halfway to her next class, glances over her shoulder. She's far from the Great Hall now, weaving through the morning crowd.
"Hello, Marlene," Alina replies evenly, turning to spot the choppy-haired blonde pushing her way through the throng of students.
"There you are, my favorite Slytherin," Marlene greets her with a smirk, the kohl around her eyes perfectly smudged in a way that seems effortlessly intentional.
Alina huffs breath of amusement and rolls her eyes, though there's no real annoyance in it. They have Transfiguration together this morning, which means they can walk together.
The corridor is annoyingly crowded, the press of students jostling and shuffling in every direction. Alina appreciates how Marlene steps slightly ahead to clear a path, sparing her the discomfort of brushing against anyone.
The two girls fall into step, their conversation easy and meandering. They flit from topic to topic, the chatter light and inconsequential, until they reach the Transfiguration classroom.
Students are already milling about outside the door, and the pair slips through the small crowd, claiming a seat together near the middle of the room.
"Lina," Marlene whispers, leaning closer once they settle at the desk.
Alina arches a brow in silent question as she pulls out her parchment and quill.
"Can you help me with the Potions essay tonight?" Marlene asks, tilting her head with an almost sheepish smile.
The essay Alina has already completed days ago.
"Sure," Alina replies with a slight nod as she organizes her things. "What time?"
"After dinner? We could do it in the Gryffindor common room—if that's alright with you?" Marlene's tone is hopeful, her head cocked in a way that makes her seem both casual and earnest.
Alina considers for a moment before nodding. "That works."
"You're the best," Marlene says, her face lighting up with a wide grin. "I'll get you something as a thank-you. You like that pomegranate candy from Hogsmeade, right?"
"I do," Alina admits.
"Perfect. I'll grab you some this weekend," Marlene promises, her grin widening.
~~~
"Oh, come on!" Marlene's eyes widen in exaggerated disbelief as she turns to Alina. "You mean to tell me you've never been to a Muggle town?"
It's later in the evening, just after dinner, when Marlene practically draged Alina out of the Great Hall. Their destination is the Gryffindor common room, and there's little room for argument.
