Fatal Attraction | D.M. (Soft Rewrite)

Chapter Two - The Farewell

By the time Mrs Weasley's comforting stew had settled in all their stomachs, Ophelia knew the missing details.

'Well I went to Diagon Alley today and sourced everything on the supply list. I do hope the robes I picked fit...I mean I'm sure they will – you slight thing. Of course, we don't know which house you'll be sorted into but –'

'Sorting?' Ophelia's insides flushed, she hadn't even considered that formality. At Beauxbaton there was no organised house system. That will be something to adjust to. She allowed herself to daydream about her options.

Before her parent's deaths she wouldn't have doubted her status as a Gryffindor, like her mother. But after so much loss, and grieving, she struggled to define her identity. She was no longer familiar with the girl of her past.

It was no surprise after spending so many months overwhelmed by feeling - or hanging in a paralysing stasis, where nobody could reach her. There was little room left for a personality.

But she desperately wanted to try.

Still, it would be comforting to have Ron and Ginny close. She imagined that things didn't have to be so lonely. Yes, Gryffindor, it has to be. It makes the most sense.

The final year had been combined with the incoming seventh years. A decision meant to allow all the students to complete their studies free from the tyranny of the Carrow twins.

It was unfortunate that so many would never return. Some of whom had fallen during the Battle. While others had parents refusing to renew their attendance. Not everything had gone back to normal, and many still had substantial reservations.

Ophelia, herself, was struck by the prospect that soon she would be standing where they stood. Where her father fought. Where he fell.

Her heart ached - she wanted to feel closer to him - closer to her mother who spent her formative years at Hogwarts. Bedtime stories had always included tales of her mischief at school.

It's all so surreal.

Fleur had encouraged her to transfer, secretly not willing to be parted by any more distance than was necessary. While Bill had convinced her with his fond recommendation of Professor McGonagall, who had been the obvious choice for Headmistress.

Despite the school's ties to her past – it also offered Ophelia a new start.

Mrs Weasley had outdone herself, sparing no expense to collect all the items from her supply list. Ophelia was moving before she could stop herself, rushing forward to grasp the woman's plump frame.

Her body stilled, as Mrs Weasley rubbed a soothing hand across the blades of her back. Molly couldn't help but be overwhelmed by sorrow observing the girl – a fellow victim of the Dark Lord's wrath. She truly wished she could fix Phi's pain...she wished she could fix her own.

'Thank you Mrs Weasley, I...I'm so grateful for all you've done for me. I–'

'Dear, it was no trouble. I had to do the same for Ron, Ginny, and Harry. It was my pleasure. Now! Let's get this show on the road,' her voice surprisingly upbeat after the moment they just shared.

'Pardon?'

'Well the usual journey by Hogwarts Express might be traditional, but I didn't think it would be best to throw you in at the deep-end. So, the ministry has allowed us to borrow a car to deliver the four of you there safely.'

She's bloody amazing, Ophelia thought appreciatively.

'So, if you don't mind, we should travel back to the Burrow by Floo Network this evening!'