Hufflepuff In The Family

The New Year Ahead

After an excruciatingly long time, the train pulled to a stop and everyone piled off of the train. Kelly, Danielle and I said goodbye to Harry, Ron and Hermione and got our own carriage.

"I can't believe you're thinking of trying out for the Quidditch team," Kelly sighed at me. "I know what you're going to say and I know there's no way I'll talk you out of it, I just don't see your obsession with the sport. So violent."

Danielle and I share a look and both try to hide our smiles. "Thanks for the support, Kell."

My friend brushed her dark hair from her face. Over the summer she had cut it slightly so it no longer hung at her waist but gently drifted above her shoulders. "You know I'll be your number one," Danielle coughed, "number two fan but only so long you're sure you want this."

I explained how all summer Quidditch had kept me alive and free and after much discussion, Kelly conceded. By the time we pulled up in front of the castle, we were giggling as per usual. We hopped off of the carriage and made our way to the Great Hall.

The Great Hall looked as beautiful as ever and I could barely contain a squeal as we entered. It never failed to make me speechless. We made our way to the Hufflepuff table, greeting familiar faces as we went.

"Long time no see," said a voice behind me. I turned to see Jacob and Becki stood smirking behind me in their beautiful emerald robes.

"Jacob, Becki hi!" I said hugging each one in turn. I stood back and let the other two hug them as well. "How was your summer?" I ask. Jacob and Becki shared a dark look and I raised an eyebrow. Before I could ask, Professor McGonagall coughed loudly and placed the sorting hat on the stool. We took our seats but before I made sure to give Jacob a pointed glance to make sure he knew we'd talk about whatever was bothering him later.

We turned to the front and watched as the old, battered hat at the front burst into song. As he sang, I looked over to the Gryffindor table where Ron was snickering with Harry. He caught my eye and smiled at me and I grinned back. Fred and George were a few seats along and they sent a mock salute my way and it took all my effort not to burst out laughing.

Three years ago to the day, I had hated the fact I'd been set aside from the rest of my family but now I loved it. It gave me freedom and distance that the others didn't have. Plus the Hufflepuff common room was by far the best one.

The thundering applause that greeted the end of the sorting hat's song brought me out of my thoughts. I looked to the front at the large group of first-years at the front and remembered how scared I had been when I was there. I looked at my friends and grinned. Bring on the fourth year.