If there was anything the students of Hogwarts had learned over the years, it was that Godric Gryffindor and Salazar Slytherin were never in agreement—except when they absolutely needed to be.
The two had been friends for years, but their clashing personalities made them seem more like rivals to outsiders. Godric, with his bold laughter and unshakable optimism, was a force of nature. Salazar, with his sharp wit and calculating gaze, was his perfect opposite.
Yet, it was precisely because they were so different that they understood each other so well.
One evening, after a particularly heated discussion about Hogwarts' future, the two found themselves alone in the castle courtyard. The moon cast long shadows across the stone paths, bathing the ancient halls in silver light.
Godric leaned against a stone pillar, running a hand through his wild red hair. "You know, for someone who claims not to care, you sure get worked up about Hogwarts' future."
Salazar, standing with his arms crossed, rolled his eyes. "That’s because unlike some people, I actually think before acting."
Godric laughed. "Oh, come on, you love it when I act on impulse. Keeps life interesting."
Salazar huffed. "I tolerate it."
Godric smirked. "Liar."
Salazar turned to glare at him, only to find Godric much closer than he had expected.
His heart did something annoying in his chest.
Godric was grinning, but there was something different in his eyes tonight—something softer. "You know," he murmured, "for all your complaints, you never actually leave when I do something reckless."
Salazar narrowed his eyes. "Someone has to keep you alive."
Godric chuckled. "Or maybe, just maybe, you like having me around."
Salazar scoffed, turning his gaze away. "Arrogant fool."
Godric tilted his head, studying him. Then, with uncharacteristic seriousness, he asked, "Why do you stay?"
Salazar inhaled sharply. He knew what Godric was really asking.
Why do you fight beside me? Why do you argue with me, but never truly leave? Why do you always look at me like that when you think I’m not paying attention?
For a long moment, Salazar said nothing.
Then, without looking at him, he muttered, "Because I don’t trust anyone else to handle your stupidity."
Godric blinked. Then, a slow grin spread across his face.
"You’re terrible at admitting things," he teased.
Salazar shot him a glare. "And you’re infuriating."
Godric just laughed. "But you love me anyway."
Salazar stiffened. "Gryffindor—"
Before he could finish, Godric had already walked off, whistling cheerfully to himself.
Salazar clenched his jaw, resisting the urge to hex him.
Damn that insufferable man.
Damn him for being right.