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 stares across the table, her gaze locked onto Regulus with a barely concealed glare.
He's ignoring her.
The Great Hall buzzes with the usual weekend chatter. Breakfast has long since started, but at the Slytherin table, an odd silence hangs between them. Barty sits beside Regulus, but for once, even he isn't talking.
Regulus, however, is the only one deliberately refusing to acknowledge her.
Alina keeps her expression blank, though her eyes narrow slightly at the younger Black. His dark curls fall over his face, obscuring his expression as he focuses intently on his book, pretending she doesn't exist.
She takes another bite of her yogurt and continues staring.
"Are you okay?" Barty's voice cuts through the silence. His sharp eyes flick toward her, filled with uncharacteristic concern.
"I'm fine," Alina replies smoothly, leaning back. Her sweater shifts with the movement—black, oversized, paired with a skirt and warm tights. It's the first Hogsmeade weekend of December, and the snow outside reflects the harsh morning sunlight into the Great Hall.
"Really?" Barty presses. "Because you look like you just realized you're in love with Regulus or something."
Alina blinks, unimpressed. "I am not in love with Regulus."
At that, Regulus finally looks up, meeting her gaze with an expression so unreadable it irritates her.
Then, without a word, he shuts his book, shoves it into his bag, and stands.
"I need to go," he mutters before swiftly turning and leaving.
Barty hums, watching Regulus disappear through the hall's towering doors. His attention shifts back to Alina.
"What's wrong, Lia?"
She hesitates for only a second before meeting his gaze. "My parents asked me to come home for Christmas break."
Silence.
Barty's face remains eerily blank for a long moment before he slowly shakes his head. "No."
His voice is quiet but firm.
"You can't go."
"I have to." Alina keeps her tone even, detached.
Barty frowns, his light eyes darkening with worry. "Lia—"
"You should go after Regulus." She cuts him off, reaching for her bag. "I need to go."
Before he can argue, she's already on her feet, leaving without another glance.
At the Gryffindor table, James, Sirius, Remus, and Peter linger over their breakfast, though they'll probably be leaving soon.
"Alina!" James spots her immediately, his smile softening as he greets her.
