Harry Potter: An Alternate Universe

16) Not Alone

Year: Graduated 1920
House: Slytherin
Gender: Not Specified
Love Interest: Newt Scamander

You realized today was the day Newt would be returning from America, a trip he took for research on his new book, and to release Frank into the Arizona deserts. You were keeping yourself busy, not wanting to leave the shop yet, hoping perhaps he would come see you before you did. A somewhat sill thought, but you hoped anyway. Before he left, you even offered to meet him at the port. He tossed the idea aside, saying how he'd probably just return home. Of course he would, why wouldn't he? He must be tired from his journey.

While you told yourself this, you kept organizing shelves and feeding your plants, tidying up around the nursery and trimming the shrivelfig plants. In fact, you still had your pliers in hand when you heard a rustle behind you.

You shot right around, chucking the pliers at the source of movement, nearly driving the blade right into Newt's skull. He dodged it, letting them hit the shelf behind him. They stuck right into its wood. Newt looked at you wide-eyed.

"Well that was unexpected."

"I am so sorry," each syllable dragged out with emphasis. He hardly seemed to notice anymore, like he's forgotten.

"No worries," he said, following your steps with his eyes as you went to retrieve the pliers.

"Had a nice trip?"

"Oh, well, let's just say it was... eventful." You went back to cutting away some of the dead leaves of the plant, just to keep yourself busy.

"That's good, no?" He tilted his head side to side as if unsure.

"I suppose."

"Well, I'm glad you're back in one piece," you avowed. He gave an awkward smile.

"Listen, I don't want to waste anymore of your time. I just need some Snargaluff for my Niffler."

"Newt, don't be ridiculous. How'd you be wasting my time?"

"Your shop is closed, is it not?" You briefly looked at the door and remembered you had closed shop.

"Right. But I mean, it's you." You pointed out, wandering around the rows of plants to where the Snargaluff grew. He appeared dazed and confused.

"Me?," he said, only a bit above a whisper.

"You're dedicated to your work," you said, only concentrating on the plant. "I find that very admirable. Even more so, that you are also very passionate about your work." With much ease, you plucked the prickly fruit from its bush, while still stroking the plant soothingly.

"One of those things nearly killed me in Herbology back at Hogwarts, how do you know how to tame them?"

"It's a part of my craft," you told him.

He apologized shortly afterwards that he only had American money on him, and had no means to pay you.

"I disagree." He looked at you puzzlingly. "I'd like to see you for an evening out sometime this holiday. That's if you're not too busy with family and what-have-you." His eyes, blue and wonderful, searched yours.

"I'll be alone this holiday."

"I disagree," you repeated, strutting over and taking his hand. "You're not alone."

Was inspired by Fantastic Beasts, of course. I think they're a great addition to Harry Potter. Newt's a great character to write for, and I plan to do more with him.

For now, I bid you all farewell. Hopefully I can continue updates tomorrow, but I'm extremely busy once again.

Comments and votes and requests are encouraged!!