The Fox In A Snake Pit! Story 3

Dobby's a witness?

Draco offered the idea of using the Invisibility Spell with an air of reluctance, but Daphne promptly dismissed it. She vividly recalled Dumbledore's warning about how Dementors could penetrate the veil of the Invisibility Cloak, likening the two as if they were the same. 

Despite her disappointment, Jade nodded in understanding; she wasn't willing to risk her safety or theirs. 

Miles Bletchley, a player on the Slytherin Quidditch team, offered what could be considered the least reassuring words of consolation. "People rave about Hogsmeade, but trust me, Jade, it's not as amazing as everyone claims," he stated with a serious tone. "Sure, the Sweetshop has its charm, and Zonko's Joke Shop can be a bit of a thrill, not to mention the Shrieking Shack is an intriguing spot, but honestly, Jade, you're not missing anything significant." 

Jade's gaze remained unfocused as she took in his words. She knew that Miles meant well, but she couldn't shake the feeling of exclusion. "Thanks, Miles," she murmured, a hint of sarcasm in her tone. "I'll keep that in mind next time. I'm just dying to visit the Shrieking Shack." She turned to Draco, her expression a silent plea for support, but even he seemed at a loss for words. 

~Time skip~

On the morning of Halloween, Jade joined the rest of her friends for breakfast, but an overwhelming sense of sadness lingered in her heart. Despite her efforts to put on a brave face, the melancholy was hard to shake. 

"We'll be sure to pick up a mountain of treats from Honeydukes," Daphne promised, her expression tinged with sympathy for her. 

"Yeah, we'll bring back heaps!" Goyal chimed in, enthusiastic about their plans. "You'll have so much to eat that you'll think you've been there yourself." 

"There's no need to bring me anything," Jade remarked, striving for an easygoing tone. "I'll catch up with you at the feast. Enjoy yourselves!" She walked with them to the entrance hall, where Filch, the ever-watchful caretaker, stood just inside the doors. He meticulously checked names on a lengthy list, casting wary glances at each person passing by, ensuring that no one who didn't have permission slipped out. 

Jade and Draco made their way back to the Slytherin common room, the portrait swinging open to welcome them. As they stepped inside, they were greeted by the lively chatter of the first and second years, along with a handful of older students who seemed to have lost the excitement of their frequent trips to Hogsmeade. 

Jade slumped onto the couch, Vix curling up at her feet, sensing her owner's mood. 

"Well, at least we're not alone here." Draco remarked once more, aiming to lighten the mood, but his efforts fell flat yet again. 

"That's not the point, Draco," she replied, her voice heavy with frustration as she gently petted Vix's head. 

"If that's not the issue, then what is? Why does being stuck here bother you so much?" Draco pressed, arms crossed defiantly across his chest. His eyes searched hers, looking for any hint of what was really bothering her. 

"Because I wanted to get a job, okay?" Jade snapped, her cheeks turning a shade of crimson as she reluctantly confessed. 

Draco's expression shifted to one of astonishment. "Why on earth would you want a job? Have you drained your vault dry?" he asked, convinced that this was the sole explanation for her sudden desire to work. 

"No, no." Jade replied, waving her hand dismissively. "I'm looking for a job solely because I refuse to take anything more from my mother—who I still haven't had the chance to meet, by the way—at least not more than necessary." She shook her head.