Whispers of my heart - Sebastian Sallow x OC

Christmas Holiday

The first day of the Christmas holiday had arrived, and Hogwarts thrummed with excitement. The castle, draped in festive enchantments, shimmered with a warmth that contrasted the frosty landscape beyond its walls. Ophelia stood in her dormitory, carefully packing her trunk, ensuring she had everything she needed for the holiday ahead. The anticipation in the air was almost tangible.

As she stepped out of her dorm room, she was greeted by a sight that made her heart skip a beat—Sebastian, waiting just outside, his expression one of fond amusement. The soft glow of enchanted torches flickered against his features, highlighting the warmth in his brown eyes.

"There you are," he said, his voice laced with quiet affection. He reached for her trunk without hesitation, a flick of his wand making it float effortlessly beside them.

Ophelia smiled, leaning in to press a lingering kiss to his lips. "There you are."

With their trunks trailing behind them, they made their way to the Great Hall, where the scent of warm pastries filled the air. Students chattered excitedly about their plans for the holiday, their laughter blending with the distant hum of enchanted carols. Anne, Ominis, and Ophelia's younger brother, Damien, were already seated at the Slytherin table, waving them over.

Anne grinned as they approached. "Ah, look at this power couple, ready to take on the holiday season."

Ophelia chuckled, settling into her seat. "Anne, you make it sound like we're plotting world domination."

Sebastian smirked. "Well, isn't that the plan for after Christmas?"

Ominis, ever ready to join in the banter, added dryly, "Just make sure you bring me back a souvenir from your conquest, Sebastian."

Damien, bright-eyed and eager, looked between them. "So, is Sebastian coming over for Christmas this year?"

Sebastian gave a nod, a hint of excitement in his voice. "Wouldn't miss it for the world. Your sister promised it would be a Christmas to remember."

Breakfast was a lively affair, filled with stories, laughter, and the kind of effortless camaraderie that only deep friendships could create. When the time came, they gathered their belongings and made their way to the Hogwarts Express, where the train awaited them, gleaming beneath a dusting of fresh snow. The festive wreaths and twinkling lights adorning the carriages added an extra layer of magic to the journey ahead.

As the train began its rhythmic journey south, the group found a compartment, settling in as the snowy countryside blurred past the windows. Ophelia leaned against Sebastian, watching the world turn into a winter wonderland before her eyes.

Sebastian's voice was a quiet murmur against the backdrop of the train's steady hum. "Are you excited to go home, love?"

She tilted her head slightly, meeting his gaze. "Absolutely. I can't wait for you to meet my cousins."

Sebastian wrapped an arm around her, the warmth of his presence a steady comfort against the crisp chill outside.

Anne, watching the snow-capped hills roll by, sighed dreamily. "The holiday train rides always feel like something out of a fairy tale."

Sebastian hummed in agreement. "Hogwarts in the snow has its own kind of enchantment."

Anne's expression brightened with an idea. "We should do something to pass the time! A round of Wizarding Chess or perhaps sharing our favorite holiday memories?"

Damien, eager as ever, straightened in his seat. "Wizarding Chess! I've been practicing. I'll take on anyone."

Sebastian arched a brow. "Oh? Well then, consider me your first challenger. But fair warning—I've never been one to lose easily."

Ophelia laughed, nudging her brother. "Don't let him intimidate you. He may be good, but you've surprised people before."

The game unfolded with an air of excitement, the enchanted chess pieces moving across the board with a life of their own. Ominis, despite his blindness, followed the match with remarkable insight, his sharp senses picking up the shifting pieces and murmuring strategic observations.

Then, with a deft move, Damien's knight captured one of Sebastian's key pieces. A collective gasp filled the compartment.

Sebastian blinked at the board, momentarily speechless. "Well... that was unexpected."

Anne and Ophelia burst into laughter, while Damien grinned triumphantly. "Checkmate."

Sebastian stared at the board in disbelief before breaking into a chuckle, shaking his head. "Alright, I concede. That was well played."

As the train continued toward London, the conversation shifted to their upcoming holiday plans, they wanted to stay in London a bit longer. Anne, ever the planner, steepled her fingers in thought. "We need a strategy. Ophelia, your parents are the ones we have to convince if we want to stay in London for a night."

Sebastian smirked. "I can handle Aunt Victoria. She appreciates spontaneity. If we sell it right, she'll be on board in no time."

Ophelia nodded. "My parents might need more persuading, but if we present it as a special Christmas shopping experience, they might agree."

Ominis, thoughtful as ever, added, "It wouldn't hurt to mention the holiday markets. I've heard they're a sight to behold."

Sebastian leaned in conspiratorially. "So, we're agreed. When we arrive, we make our case."

The Hogwarts Express sped toward London, carrying them toward a holiday filled with wonder, laughter, and memories waiting to be made.