Chocolate Frogs

Chapter 6

Dear Amelia,

I miss you. I hope you're doing better than I am. Your mum let us know the message you asked for her to tell us. I knew you'd make a friend this year! I did predict it. Maybe I would be good in your Divination classes. Before you worry about me, I'll spare you and tell you all about it.

I never thought I would say this but school is kicking my butt. I'm swamped with homeworks, and book chapters I need to read over the Christmas break. The teachers are also giving us short exams every other day and it has been exhausting.

Beatrice, on the other hand, doesn't seem to be stressed about school. It might have to do with the boy she's been mooning about. She told me to write to you about that, too. His name is Tristan and he's in year 7. He's pretty nice and really friendly. He's a musical person and always hums or sings when we spend time with him. I think you'll like him for Bea. They've only started going out but they're already inseparable. It made me feel like a third wheel when we meet up with him at lunch and after school.

Fortunately, he introduced his friend to us. Her name is Cindy. She's been keeping me company when the two love birds are out on a date. Cindy is in year 7 too, and she's been Tristan's friend since they were little. I actually thought they were brother and sister because of how in tune they are.

Cindy does really great with kids and she somehow convinced mum to let her babysit the boys. You know how my brothers can be - even we can't handle them sometimes. She's an outgoing person and she knows how to have fun. She's so good with people and make it seem like she knows everybody. Cindy showed us her paintings the other day and they were gorgeous. Since you love to paint when you're home, maybe you two can collaborate! That would be really nice. I hope you like her as much as Bea and I do.

We can all meet each other when you come home. We'll introduce you to Tristan and Cindy. Bea and I have been talking about you to them and they are excited to meet you. We told them that you study in a fancy boarding school.

I do enjoy writing letters over sending text messages. It's very fun and it makes me feel like a proper lady from decades ago. Plus, your mum let me send off your family owl with the letter and it makes me feel a bit like a magical person too.

We miss you so much, Amelia. I always hope we get to see you sooner than usual, but I know schools won't let that happen. Bea and I can never feel complete without you around. I can't wait to hear how it's been there.

Your loving best friend,
Jane

Amelia wrapped herself with her soft, lemon yellow blanket, cocooning herself. It was her attempt to keep all the swirling emotions inside her as she finished reading her best friend's letter, and perhaps protect herself from the negative thoughts that surrounded her.

Jane had told her about their new friends. One of her fears upon starting school in Hogwarts was that she'd be replaced in her friend group. She was just like every other friend that people have after all, it wasn't that hard to look for another.

"Let's be rational, Amelia." She told herself softly. Jane made sure that Amelia knew that she is still their friend. She made sure to remind Amelia that they are a trio, and without her, it's not the same. She also said that they miss her, talk about her a lot, and they can't wait for her to get home and spend time with them.

Them and their new friends, Amelia thought again. Tristan and Cindy. Jane seemed to enjoy talking about Cindy more than Tristan. It might be because she spends more time with Cindy and Bea spends more time with Tristan.

Cindy sounded like a wonderful person. She can take care of Jane's stubborn and very hyperactive brothers. She can also paint and she "knows how to have fun." Most importantly, she's good at making friends unlike Amelia.