The Littlest Wizard

chapter 9

Bellatrix POV

As the soft rhythm of Rosalina's breathing deepened, I watched her delicate face relax into the peaceful serenity of sleep. My heart ached with both joy and sorrow—joy that I could give her this day, sorrow that it was far too fleeting. Her curls spilled across the pillow, framing the sweet face I knew better than my own reflection.

I brushed a tender hand across her cheek, marveling at how much she'd grown and yet how much of my little girl remained. It was in the way she clung to Bun Bun as though he were a lifeline, and in the shy way she asked to be held, fearing she might be too old for such comforts. But to me, she would never outgrow those moments. She was my world, my heart walking outside my body.

Leaning down, I pressed a soft kiss to her temple, breathing in the familiar scent of wildflowers and childhood innocence. My throat tightened as I whispered, "Sleep well, my darling. Mommy's here."

I stayed seated beside her, unable to tear myself away. The weight of motherhood pressed heavily on my shoulders—the fierce love, the endless worry, the aching guilt for every moment I couldn't be with her. How many times had I wondered if I was doing right by her? If my choices were enough?

Rosalina stirred slightly, murmuring something incomprehensible, and I smoothed her hair gently. "Hush, sweet one," I soothed softly. "You're safe."

A part of me wanted to lie down beside her, as I had so many nights when nightmares stole her peace. But this was her space now—her dormitory bed in a school that would teach her to be brave, strong, and independent. And as much as it pained me, I knew I had to let her grow.

But not tonight.

Tonight, I would linger just a little longer, watching over her like the guardian I vowed to be. The stars began to peek through the enchanted ceiling above, casting a silvery glow across the room. I traced the constellations with my eyes, finding solace in their ancient patterns. Perhaps they, too, were eternal guardians, watching over those they loved from afar.

The door creaked softly as the matron stepped in, her expression gentle. "She's a lovely child," she said quietly, her voice respectful. "And very brave."

I nodded, my voice tight. "She gets that from her father," I admitted, though my heart whispered otherwise—Rosalina's courage was all her own.

The matron smiled knowingly. "And perhaps a bit from you too," she added before stepping back into the shadows.

Alone once more, I leaned closer to Rosalina, my voice low but resolute. "I love you, my sweet girl. More than the stars love the night sky."

Her lips curved into a soft smile, even in sleep, as if she had heard me.

Tomorrow would come, and with it, the inevitable goodbyes. But for now, I held onto this perfect, fragile moment—a memory to carry with me when the world pulled us apart once more. No enchantment was stronger than the bond between a mother and her child, and no distance could ever sever it.

I would always return to her. Always.

Rosalina POV 

The next morning, I woke up to the soft rustle of robes and the gentle hum of Mommy’s lullaby lingering in the air. My eyes fluttered open, and there she was, sitting by my bedside, her hand resting over mine. For a moment, I forgot where I was—it felt just like home, safe and warm. 

"Good morning, sleepyhead," she said softly, her smile brightening the room. 

I yawned and stretched, my voice still thick with sleep. "You're still here?" 

"Of course," she promised, squeezing my hand. "I told you I wouldn't leave until you woke up." 

Relief washed over me as I sat up and rubbed the sleep from my eyes. Bun Bun was still tucked under my arm, and I hugged him tightly. I never wanted this feeling to end. 

"Are we going home today?" I asked hesitantly, hoping for the answer I wanted but already knowing it wouldn't come. 

Her expression softened, and she brushed a curl away from my face. "Not just yet, sweetheart. You have your lessons, and I know you're doing so well here. But I'll be back soon, I promise." 

My chest tightened, and I bit my lip to keep the tears from spilling over. "But I miss you, Mommy," I whispered. 

"I miss you too, more than you know," she said, her voice thick with emotion. "But you're so brave, Rosalina. And I'm so proud of you." 

I sniffled, trying to be brave like she said. "Will you write me letters every day?" 

"Every single day," she vowed. "And I'll bring you stories from Aunt Cissy, too." 

That made me smile a little. Aunt Cissy's stories were the best—full of adventure and magic. 

Mommy stood up and held out her hand. "How about we have one last breakfast together before I go?" 

I nodded eagerly, not wanting to waste a single moment. She helped me into my slippers and wrapped a cozy cloak around my shoulders. 

The dining hall was quiet this early, just a few students scattered about. Mommy and I sat at a small table by the window, the sunlight streaming in like golden ribbons. She poured me a cup of warm cocoa and buttered a slice of bread for me, just like she used to at home. 

We talked about everything—my lessons, my friends, the enchanted garden I wanted to show her next time she visited. Every word felt like a little treasure I wanted to hold onto forever. 

When breakfast was over, we walked back to the courtyard where her carriage waited. My heart sank at the sight of it. 

"Do you really have to go?" I asked, my voice small. 

She knelt down to my level, cupping my face in her warm hands. "I do, my love. But remember what I said—no matter where I am, I'm always with you here." She placed her hand over my heart. 

I nodded, trying to be strong. "I’ll be brave, Mommy." 

"I know you will," she said, her eyes shining with pride. "You're my strong, clever girl." 

She hugged me tightly, and I clung to her, not wanting to let go. But I knew I had to. 

As the carriage pulled away, I stood there, Bun Bun tucked under my arm, waving until she was just a tiny speck on the horizon. 

I took a deep breath, feeling both sad and strong at the same time. Mommy always came back. And until then, I would keep being brave, just like she believed I could be.

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