Interlude The Second
Cassidy sat by the window in the Gryffindor common room, the sun rising as morning settled over Hogwarts. The castle was buzzing with chatter, but Cassidy was lost in the letter she had just received. It was from her mother, Amira, and though she had gotten the owl early this morning, she felt the urge to read it now.
She unfolded the parchment, the familiar scent of her mom's parchment filling her senses. Flowers and sugar.
My dearest Cassandra,
I hope this letter finds you well and in high spirits, despite everything going on at Hogwarts. Your father and I are both so proud of you. Every time I hear about your adventures, it's clear how much you've grown. We're both so grateful for the strength you have, even when things aren't easy.
The shop is as lively as ever. Your father's been tinkering with new recipes again. He swears he's found the perfect combination for a new type of fudge, but honestly, it tastes the same as all the other ones. Still, you know how he is—always tinkering and tweaking everything. And don't worry about us too much; you know we're doing fine. But your father does miss you. He says the shop doesn't feel the same without you there to talk to him while he works.
Cassidy smiled softly, imagining her dad in the shop, humming and making his usual jokes. She missed them both, but the thought of their lives back in Diagon Alley brought a comfort she hadn't realized she needed.
I'm sure you're very busy, and I don't want to distract you too much. But, Cass, please make sure you're taking time to relax, too. You always try to do everything, and I just want to remind you that it's okay to ask for help sometimes. You don't have to carry everything by yourself.
We're so proud of the person you're becoming, and I know you're doing great things there. Stay strong, stay kind, and don't forget to laugh with your friends. They're lucky to have you.
I'm sending all my love, as always.
Love,
Your mother, Amira
Cassidy felt a soft warmth spread through her chest as she finished the letter. Her mom always had a way of making her feel like she could do anything, and today was no different. She could almost hear her voice in her head, scolding her to relax and reminding her not to take on too much.
"Cass?" Ron's voice broke her from her thoughts, and she looked up to see him, Harry and Hermione looking at her, waiting to go to classes.
Cassidy tucked the letter into her bag, a small smile playing at her lips. "Yeah, I'm coming," she said, standing up.