Carina Gray is a sharp-witted, fiercely loyal Slytherin with a knack for mischief and a heart of gold she tries hard to keep hidden. Known for her bold sense of humor and unwavering courage, she isn't afraid to stand up for her friends, even if it m...
The hospital wing was quiet, save for the faint rustle of curtains swaying in the evening breeze. The soft golden glow of candlelight cast shadows over the beds, adding to the peaceful calm. Carina lay propped up on crisp white pillows, wincing slightly as Madam Pomfrey dabbed dittany onto the large scratch running down her side. The cooling sensation soothed the sting, but Carina's mind was racing.
"Honestly, Miss Gray," Madam Pomfrey muttered as she worked, "charging at a hippogriff like that... What in Merlin's name possessed you?"
Carina smiled faintly, her lips tugging upwards despite the pain. "I guess I've got a flair for the dramatic."
Pomfrey tutted. "Dramatic, indeed. You've inherited more from your parents than you realise." She shook her head as she pulled the blanket up to Carina's waist.
Carina blinked. "Wait—what do you mean?"
Pomfrey froze for a fraction of a second before straightening. "Rest," she said briskly, brushing down her apron. "And no more nonsense, do you hear me?"
"Poppy..." Carina began, trying to press her, but Madam Pomfrey's gaze sharpened.
"It's Madam Pomfrey," she corrected, though there was a ghost of a smile at the corner of her lips. "I don't care if your father used to call me that—you're not getting away with it."
Carina's brow furrowed. "My... father?" she whispered, but Pomfrey was already bustling off to fetch a fresh potion.
Before Carina could dwell on it any further, the hospital wing doors swung open with a loud clatter.
Theo and Enzo burst in, practically skidding across the polished floor.
"Merlin's beard, Gray!" Theo called out. "You're still in one piece, right?"
"Oi!" Madam Pomfrey barked, hands on her hips. "No running in the hospital wing!"
Enzo flashed his most charming smile. "Sorry, Madam Pomfrey. Couldn't help ourselves."
"Just excited to see our friend," Theo added, not looking the least bit repentant.
Pomfrey rolled her eyes, muttering something about "reckless Slytherins," before returning to her potions cabinet.
Pansy and Daphne entered a moment later, walking with far more grace and composure.
"Honestly," Pansy muttered as she passed the boys, "you two are like toddlers."
Daphne hurried to Carina's bedside and sat gently on the edge of the bed. "Are you okay?" she asked, her eyes wide with concern.
Carina gave her a small smile. "I'm fine—promise."
