Interlude the First
July 24, 1992
Longbottom Cottage
Ottery St. Catchpole
Dear Cassandra,
Hi there—wait, do you even like being called Cassandra? I don't think I've ever heard anyone call you that. Well, except Snape when he's mad, but he doesn't count, does he? Anyway, I hope you're okay with me writing this. Gran said it's polite to send letters to friends over the summer, and I figured...well, we're friends, right?
How's your summer going? I bet it's way more exciting than mine. Gran's been keeping me busy with herbology chores. She says it's "character building," but honestly, I think she just likes having someone else deal with the Venomous Tentacula. It's gotten so big I'm starting to think it'll try to eat me next time I water it.
I've been thinking a lot about Hogwarts lately. Do you ever wonder what second year will be like? I mean, it can't be worse than dealing with trolls, cursed broomsticks, and near-death experiences in the Forbidden Forest...right? Then again, with Harry, Ron, and Hermione around, you never really know. Oh, and you, of course. You've got this way of attracting chaos too, but, uh, in a good way.
I was also thinking about that thing you did before you went off with Harry and the others—you know, when you kissed me on the cheek? I didn't say much then, but it meant a lot to me. I'm not saying I fancy you, it just.... it made me feel like...maybe I'm not as hopeless as I thought.
Oh! Gran told me she's sending me to Diagon Alley next week to pick up supplies for school. Any chance you'll be there too? It'd be nice to see a familiar face—and maybe not get lost in Flourish and Blotts this time.
Anyway, I don't want to bore you with too much. I just wanted to say thanks for being...well, you. You're a great friend, Cassidy (or Cassandra, if you actually like that). Write back if you want—or don't. No pressure.
Take care,
Neville
P.S. Gran says hello. I told her about you. She says if you ever want tips on keeping plants alive, you should visit. She likes you, you know. Says you've got "spark." Not sure what that means, but it sounds like a good thing.
Dear Neville,
First of all—yes, you can call me Cassidy. I honestly can't believe you thought Cassandra was an option. Do I look like someone who likes being called Cassandra? I'm kidding (sort of). But yeah, definitely stick with Cassidy.
Second—oh my Merlin, your Gran said I've got "spark"? That's officially my new favorite compliment, so tell her thank you for me! And please, Neville, if that Tentacula tries to eat you, write me immediately. I'll march straight over and hex it into a harmless little weed. Well, try to, anyway. You know I'm rubbish at Herbology and plants in general.
Also, "attracting chaos in a good way"? I don't know whether to feel flattered or slightly offended! You make it sound like I ask for trouble, but I swear, half the time I'm just existing and things happen. Though, okay, I'll admit, sneaking off with Harry and the others last year was a little chaotic. But, Neville, you were so brave that night. You stood up to us even though it must've been scary. I hope you know that's real courage—the kind that counts the most.
As for the kiss... Oh, Merlin, I forgot about that! Not because it wasn't sweet—because it was—but because I was too busy trying to go off and help Harry. I might've been, uh, slightly panicked. I'm sorry if it made things weird for you. It was honestly just meant to distract you (which worked, by the way). But I'm glad it made you feel better. You're so not hopeless, Neville. You're one of the kindest people I know, and Hogwarts wouldn't be the same without you.
And, yes! I'll be in Diagon Alley soon too—probably sometime next week to get my school stuff. Maybe we can meet up at Florean Fortescue's for ice cream? I promise to rescue you if you get stuck in Flourish and Blotts. Though, let's be real, I'll probably get distracted by the joke shop or something and lose myself.
I should go before this letter turns into a book. But seriously, Neville, thanks for writing to me. You've made my whole day. Write back if you want—or just meet me for that ice cream, yeah?
Take care,
Cassidy
P.S. Tell your Gran I'll gladly take her plant advice—though I might be beyond saving when it comes to Herbology. Also, don't let that Tentacula boss you around. Assert dominance! Or, like, just water it and run. Either works.