The Daughter of Valancaire

Jessa’s First POV

Professor Fig welcomed me warmly the moment I stepped into his office.

“Ah, Jessa. Right on time.”

He wasted no time getting to the point, which I appreciated.

“I’ve found something.”

He walked over to his desk and picked up an old, leather-bound book. It was worn, its cover faded from time, but even at a glance, I could feel the pulse of something familiar.

Ancient Magic.

I stepped closer, my fingers hovering over the cover as Fig continued.

“This book—what remains of it—contains traces of the very same magic you can see.” He gestured toward me. “However, as you might have noticed, it’s incomplete. Someone has removed several pages.”

Of course. Because nothing was ever whole when it came to Ancient Magic.

I opened the book carefully, flipping through its aged parchment, some brittle at the edges. The moment my fingers brushed against one of the remaining pages, a soft glow hummed beneath the ink.

There.

The light. The same as the Ancient Magic wells I’d found before.

Fig and I exchanged looks.

I already knew what needed to be done.

“Let’s bring it to the Map Chamber,” I said. “See if something reacts.”

Fig nodded in agreement.

“A wise decision.”

And so, we wasted no time.

The Map Chamber

The chamber was exactly as I remembered—the place Sebastian and I had discovered, the very place where secrets had stirred beneath the very foundation of Hogwarts.

The enchanted map stretched across the floor, the room dimly illuminated by its eerie glow.

The portraits of the Keepers remained still, watching, waiting.

I stepped forward, gripping the book tightly.

And the moment I placed it on the central pedestal—

Magic surged.

The air shifted, the very stone beneath us humming with power.

The map reacted, pulsing, the glow intensifying.

Professor Fig sucked in a breath. “Incredible…”

Then—

A voice.

“So… the girl who wields Ancient Magic has finally arrived.”

I spun around.

One of the portraits on the wall flickered to life.

An older wizard, dressed in flowing robes that spoke of another time, studied me with keen, calculating eyes. His silver-streaked beard framed a sharp, intelligent face, and his presence alone carried the weight of centuries past.

Fig straightened immediately.

“You—you’re one of the Keepers.”

The man nodded.

“Indeed. I am Professor Percival Rackham.” His gaze flickered to me. “And you… you are not an ordinary witch, are you?”

I swallowed. I had been prepared for the map to react—but not for one of the Keepers themselves to appear.

“I suppose not,” I answered carefully. “I assume you already know why.”

Rackham let out a hum of contemplation.

“Not entirely. But I can feel it. The same power that once flowed through Isidora Morganach… flows through you.”

I stiffened. That name.

Fig, too, went rigid beside me.

“Isidora…” He murmured, half in realization, half in apprehension.

Rackham’s gaze settled on the book.

“That… where did you find it?”

Fig answered this time. “It came into my possession through old magical archives. We brought it here, hoping it might reveal something to Jessa.”

Rackham considered this.

Then, his eyes flickered toward me once more.

“Open it.”

I hesitated for a beat, but did as he said.

The moment the pages spread before us, the map chamber pulsed.

The glow on the floor intensified.

And then—

The map rejected it.

A shudder ran through the room as the power that had begun to gather suddenly snapped, recoiling away from the book.

The glow flickered. Dimmed.

I clenched my fists.

The missing pages.

They mattered.

Rackham let out a slow, deliberate sigh. “I see.”

Fig frowned. “What just happened?”

Rackham’s voice was grim.

“The book is tied to the secrets of Ancient Magic… but it is incomplete. The map cannot recognize something that is not whole.”

I exhaled, already anticipating the worst. “So we need to find the missing pages.”

Rackham nodded. “Indeed. Without them, whatever knowledge is hidden within that book will remain out of your grasp.”

Fig glanced at me, his expression thoughtful. “At least now we know for certain that this book is connected to you, Jessa.”

I looked back down at the old, worn pages.

A part of me had already known.

But now—

Now I had proof.

And I had a feeling finding those missing pages would be far more dangerous than either of us could anticipate.
___

Professor Rackham’s painted face remained unreadable as he regarded me.

“I have another portrait,” he finally said. “One that may guide you.”

I straightened. “Another portrait?”

“Yes,” he confirmed. “One of myself. It resides in San Bakar’s Tower.”

Professor Fig stilled beside me, his expression darkening.

“San Bakar’s Tower?” he repeated, crossing his arms. “That place has been abandoned for centuries.”

Rackham’s painted form nodded. “Indeed. My likeness was moved there long ago for reasons of security.”

I frowned. “Security?”

“There are certain things we wished to keep hidden from those who would misuse them.”

A chill crept up my spine. That wording—“we wished to keep hidden.”

I knew exactly who he meant.

The Keepers.

The very people who had destroyed Isidora Morganach.

My stomach twisted.

Professor Fig exhaled heavily. “That might be a problem.”

I turned to him. “Why?”

“That tower has been seeing goblin activity. Ranrok’s loyalists are suspected to have made camp there.”

Goblin presence. Of course. Because nothing about this could ever be simple.

“Then I’ll just have to be careful.”

Fig shook his head. “You need to be more than careful, Jessa.”

I almost rolled my eyes. He always said that.

But then I caught sight of his face—true concern etched deep into his features.

Concern for me.

I clenched my jaw. Because, deep in my mind, another voice echoed.

“You would rather kill me than listen.”

Isidora.

The memory surged up unbidden—her face twisted in pain, disbelief, betrayal.

She had trusted them.

Just like I had trusted Fig.

My fingers twitched at my sides. I knew Fig. He had guided me. Protected me.

But I also knew what he had done.

He had stood there, wand raised, as they took her life.

And now?

Now, he was here—warning me. Worrying over me.

I swallowed the bitter taste rising in my throat.

I needed answers.

Slowly, I turned back to Rackham’s portrait.

“Tell me about your other self.”

Professor Rackham’s painted form tilted his head slightly, his expression unreadable.

“You seek answers immediately.”

His voice was calm, measured—but there was something beneath it. Something knowing.

“You are indeed a Ravenclaw. But…” His eyes glinted as he leaned forward. “You are also a Valancaire.”

A chill coiled down my spine.

“How… how did you know?” I demanded.

His lips barely curved. “Your family are the original wielders of Ancient Magic.”

My breath caught.

Original wielders.

Not just wielders. Original.

Rackham continued smoothly, as if my entire world had not just tilted on its axis.

“And your blue eyes,” he added, “it is too easy to tell.”

I opened my mouth, but no words came.

Fig stepped closer, his expression shifting to concern.

“Professor Rackham,” he said, carefully measured. “What exactly are you saying?”

The portrait merely gave an enigmatic smile.

“Go to San Bakar’s Tower.”

His voice turned firm.

“If you do not survive there… then you are not worthy of the answers.”

I gritted my teeth. “That’s hardly fair.”

“Fair?” Rackham’s gaze sharpened. “Knowledge is not given. It is earned. You, of all people, should know that.”

I clenched my fists. “Then I’ll go.”

Fig straightened immediately. “I will go with you, Jessa. Do not worry.”

But Rackham’s painted form lifted a hand, stopping him.

“No.”

A single word.

Final. Uncompromising.

Fig stiffened. “No?”

Rackham’s expression darkened. “The Ancient Magic wielder must do this alone.”

Alone.

The word echoed in my mind.

I had done so much with others by my side. Ominis. Sebastian. Garreth. Fig.

But this—this was different.

This was my bloodline.

My legacy.

And apparently, my trial.

I inhaled deeply, steadying myself. “Fine.”

Fig turned to me. “Jessa, are you sure—”

“I’ll be fine.” My voice was steady, unwavering. “I have to do this.”

Rackham’s eyes gleamed. “Then go. And let us see if a Valancaire is truly worthy.”

___

Professor Fig and I walked in tense silence back to his office. My mind was a whirlwind, gears turning relentlessly as I pieced together what needed to be done.

I had to prepare.

What spells would I need? What potions should I brew? How dangerous was this truly going to be?

I didn’t know.

And worse—I had to hide it.

Sebastian already knew about the hidden chamber. If he found out, he would follow me to San Bakar’s Tower.

Ominis, too—he would sense something was wrong. He knew me too well.

And Jace—Merlin’s beard. If he caught so much as a whisper of this, he would tell my father, and that would be the end of it.

I exhaled, steadying myself as we arrived back in Professor Fig’s office.

He turned to me, watching carefully. “Jessa.”

His voice was firm, but there was concern beneath it.

“We should tell the Valancaires about this.”

I froze.

The thought of my father learning about this mission—this trial—made my stomach churn.

I clenched my fists. “My grandfather knows.”

Fig frowned. “Excuse me?”

I met his gaze. “He has been helping me train my magic.”

It wasn’t a lie. Not entirely.

My grandfather knew the truth about my powers. He knew about the dangers ahead. And though I could not tell Fig about the warning I had given my grandfather about the goblin rebellion, I knew he was preparing me for something more.

Something I didn’t yet understand.

Fig exhaled through his nose, crossing his arms. “Then why not tell the rest of your family?”

I swallowed.

Because they would stop me.

Because my mother—**who had done everything to have me—**would never allow me to walk into something like this.

Because my father—**quiet, distant, and calculating—**would pull me out of Hogwarts himself if it meant keeping me safe.

Because my brothers—Jace, Valor, Vix—would go to war before letting me do this alone.

This was for me.

I took a deep breath and met Fig’s gaze, my voice unshakable.

“Because this is mine.”

“Jessa—”

“I need to know.” I stepped closer, gripping the edge of his desk. “The truth. The reason why Ranrok killed for this knowledge.”

I looked at him, hard.

“The reason why your wife was willing to risk everything to find it.”

Fig inhaled sharply.

The mention of Miriam struck him like a spell.

For a moment, he didn’t say anything.

Then, he sighed.

A long, weary sigh.

He turned away, rubbing his temple. “You are too much like her.”

I didn’t respond.

He was right.

I was like Miriam.

And that was exactly why I couldn’t stop now.
___

Professor Fig exhaled, his brow furrowed in deep contemplation. I could see the hesitation in his eyes, the internal battle raging within him.

He knew this was dangerous. More than dangerous.

San Bakar’s Tower was rumored to be a goblin hideout.

And goblins—I knew too well from my grandfather’s teachings—had long memories.

They despised wizards.

Fig sighed, rubbing his temple before looking back at me. “I will go with you.”

I blinked, surprised.

“Professor?”

His voice was firm. “I will not let you walk into this alone. You may have to enter the tower yourself, but I will be outside. If things take a turn for the worse, I will be there to get help.”

I opened my mouth to protest, but he held up a hand. “This is not up for discussion, Jessa.”

For once, I didn’t argue.

A part of me—**a part I didn’t want to acknowledge—**felt relieved.

He was right. This was dangerous. I wasn’t foolish enough to believe otherwise.

I nodded, resolve hardening in my chest.

“I will prepare, Professor. And when I am ready, we will go.”

Fig studied me for a long moment, then nodded.

“Then let me know when.”

Determination burned in my eyes.

San Bakar’s Tower held answers.

And I was going to find them.

___

The scent of damp earth and blooming flowers filled the Room of Requirement as I stepped inside, the warmth of the enchanted greenhouse wrapping around me.

The sight before me made me pause—Sebastian and Ominis, tending to the plants we had rehomed from the hidden herbology garden.

Sebastian was carefully trimming the edges of a Moondew Vine, its glowing leaves pulsing with gentle magic. Ominis, on the other hand, was crouched near the roots of a silverthorn shrub, his fingers delicately brushing over the soil, feeling the plant’s magic thrumming beneath his touch.

It was a rare sight, really.

Two of the most stubborn, competitive, and temperamental boys I knew, working in perfect harmony.

I smiled, my heart clenching with something warm and painful at the same time.

And then—they sensed me.

Sebastian looked up first, his chestnut-brown eyes locking onto mine. His lips curled into a smirk. “Well, if it isn’t our little scholar finally emerging from her endless meetings.”

Ominis, without turning, tilted his head slightly in my direction. “You’re late,” he murmured, but there was no annoyance in his tone—just knowing.

I made my way over, stepping between them, and immediately, their hands found me.

Sebastian’s fingers ghosted over my wrist, while Ominis brushed a stray curl behind my ear.

Gods, how was I supposed to lie to them?

Sebastian wiped his hands on his robes and leaned in, his voice playful, but sharp. “Alright, love. How did the meeting go? Any updates from the portraits?”

Ominis, still focused on his task, added smoothly, “Yes, tell us, since I’ve just now learned that you two have been sneaking off to a hidden without me.”

I swallowed.

Damn it.

Sebastian had told him.

I forced a chuckle, stepping back before they could trap me between them. “It’s nothing, really. Professor Fig hasn’t found anything yet.”

I said it smoothly. Too smoothly.

The words slipped out like silk, crafted so perfectly that I almost believed them myself.

And they—they believed me.

Sebastian groaned. “So another dead end? Bloody typical.” He stretched, rolling his shoulders before giving me a lazy smirk. “Well, at least that means no immediate danger.”

Ominis exhaled, tilting his head toward me. “I hope he finds something soon. You’ve been working yourself raw over this.”

I couldn’t breathe.

I had just lied to them.

To Sebastian, who knew the weight of secrets all too well.

To Ominis, who trusted me more than anyone.

And I hated myself for it.

Sebastian pulled me into him, resting his chin atop my head, his arms strong and steady. “I hate that we can’t do more. But if anything comes up, you’ll tell us, won’t you, love?”

Ominis, always in tune with me, gently traced his fingers over my wrist again, his voice soft, yet firm. “Promise us, my dear.”

My throat tightened.

I should have told them.

I should have trusted them with the truth.

But I couldn’t.

So instead, I lied again.

“Of course. I promise.”

And I had never hated words more in my life.

For a moment, they held me between them, warm, safe, steady.

I sank into their touch, memorizing it—because I knew what I was about to do.

I was going to walk straight into danger.

Alone.
___

Ominis traced the rim of a ceramic planter with his fingers, his brows slightly furrowed in concentration. “You’re overwatering the silverthorn shrub, Sebastian.”

Sebastian scoffed, flicking a bit of soil in Ominis’ direction. “It’s thriving, isn’t it? Besides, I don’t see you offering any brilliant solutions.”

I chuckled as I watched them bicker. This was our peace.

After everything—the missions, the training, the secrets I was hiding—this was the moment I wanted to hold on to.

I knelt beside the basilisk’s tongue sprouts, running my fingers through their shimmering silver leaves. They were all growing beautifully. Strong, resilient, unyielding—just like us.

We had built this together.

We now had too many potions in our arsenal, enough to rival even the Hogwarts apothecary. And still, Sebastian insisted we brew more, ‘just in case.’

Ominis huffed as he carefully measured out fertilizer for the whispervine. “At this rate, we’ll have enough Wiggenweld for an entire army.”

Sebastian grinned. “That’s the plan. Have you met us? We attract chaos.”

I smiled, watching the two of them fall into their usual rhythm—Sebastian, playful and reckless, Ominis, exasperated but indulgent.

And for a moment, I let myself forget.

Forget the danger waiting for me. Forget the mission looming over my shoulders. Forget the lies I had just woven so seamlessly.

Then Sebastian turned to me, his eyes twinkling with something undeniably mischievous. “So, love—excited for our date tomorrow?”

Before I could answer, Ominis scoffed. “She should be more excited for our date the next day.”

Sebastian snorted. “Oi, don’t sulk. You lost at gobstones, you knew the deal.”

Ominis turned to me, looking completely betrayed. “He cheated.”

Sebastian grinned smugly. “No, I just ensured that Garreth went last. You should be thanking me.”

I gasped dramatically, placing a hand over my heart. “Wait, wait—there was an actual order?”

Sebastian smirked. “Of course there was. You’re a highly sought-after lady, love. We had to make things fair.”

Ominis crossed his arms, clearly still offended. “Fair? You hexed my gobstone right before I made my final shot.”

Sebastian grinned even wider. “And that, my dear Gaunt, is called strategy.”

I laughed, shaking my head. “Oh, Merlin help me. You two are absurd.”

Sebastian leaned in, brushing his knuckles against my jaw. “But admit it—you’re looking forward to it.”

Ominis, not to be outdone, tilted his head in my direction, his voice smooth and knowing. “More than his, of course.”

Sebastian rolled his eyes. “Oh, here we go.”

I grinned, watching them squabble like schoolboys.

For the first time in weeks, everything felt… normal. No battles, no ancient magic, no impossible weight on my shoulders.

Just them. Just us.

I sighed, leaning back against the planter and looking between them.

“Well, I must say—I am excited.”

Sebastian smirked in triumph.

Ominis huffed.

And I laughed, shaking my head. “Finally, dates where we won’t—you know—almost die?”

Sebastian chuckled, tucking a stray curl behind my ear. “Now where’s the fun in that?”

Ominis exhaled, the corner of his lips twitching up. “It’s about time we take you somewhere you can actually enjoy.”

___

I should have known. I should have known.

The moment I had excused myself. I was trapped.

The plants were forgotten. The warm glow of the lanterns flickered dangerously, casting deep golden hues over Sebastian’s sharp grin and the way Ominis’ lips curled in quiet amusement.

I knew that look.

Predatory. Calculated. Hungry.

And I had walked right into it.

Before I could take another step, Sebastian was already behind me, his hands resting at my waist—just a touch, just enough to make me still. Ominis stood in front of me, a step closer, his head tilted like he could see every thought forming in my mind.

“You should stay,” Sebastian murmured against the shell of my ear, his voice silk and sin. “We have a lot of making up to do for the day.”

Ominis hummed, fingers grazing down the inside of my wrist, his touch featherlight yet commanding. “What’s the rush, my dear?”

Their hands were wandering. Slow. Deliberate.

Sebastian’s fingers dipped just below the waistband of my skirt, teasing. Ominis’ lips ghosted against my temple, tracing the line of my jaw.

I could feel my magic responding—humming, vibrating, heating my blood until it threatened to consume me whole.

I knew what they were doing. I knew this game.

They were trying to break me.

Trying to keep me here—keep me trapped in this room, surrendering to them, lost in indulgence until neither of us could move.

And oh, how tempting it was.

Their words curled around me like smoke, whispers of all the things they wanted to do to me tonight—how I would look beneath them, how I would sound, how I would beg, how I would ruin them just as much as they would ruin me.

I swallowed. Merlin. I barely had any willpower left.

So I did the only thing I could think of.

Something dangerous. Something reckless. Something that should have never come out of my mouth.

“If you let me go now,” I whispered, letting my fingers trail lower, lower, just grazing where I knew they were aching for me, ** “then on our dates, I will…”

And then I leaned in—one by one—whispering promises straight into their ears, sinful things, filthy things of what I would do to them.

Things that had them stiffening immediately beneath my touch.

Sebastian sucked in a sharp breath. His grip on my waist tightened, almost bruising.

Ominis exhaled shakily, his throat bobbing as he clenched his jaw.

I watched with satisfaction as the tables turned.

The predators had become the prey.

I felt them tense, felt them freeze, their bodies betraying them completely.

And before they could fully recover—before I lost every last ounce of control—I slipped from their grasp, barely escaping with my dignity intact.

I nearly collapsed against the door, my breath ragged, my knees weak.

That was dangerous.

That was stupid.

I almost lost all my will.

I turned to see them still rooted in place, their hands clenched, their faces tight with restraint.

Ominis’ chest rose and fell unevenly, his lips parted as if he was still hearing my whispered words in his head.

Sebastian was gripping the edge of the table like he was about to snap it in half.

I should run.

I should run now.

So I did.

And the last thing I heard was Sebastian’s low, ragged voice.

“Oh, she’s going to pay for that.”

___

A Dangerous Collaboration: Samantha Dale & Jessa’s Mother

I barely made it into the dormitory before Samantha pounced.

“Oh, I know that look!” she chirped, eyes bright with excitement as she abandoned whatever book she was reading.

I blinked. What look?

Before I could even open my mouth, she answered for me.

“Your date with Sebastian tomorrow! We need to prepare.”

I groaned, flopping onto my bed. “Samantha, my loving friend. Not too much, okay? Let’s not give the Feldcroft townsfolk something to talk about.”

Samantha rolled her eyes so hard I thought they might get stuck.

“Oh, please, Jessa. Sebastian wants that!”

I froze.

“What?”

Her grin widened. Dangerously.

And then she said something that immediately triggered my flight response.

“I REMEMBER THE CLOTHES HE LIKES! REMEMBER HIS POTIONS CONFESSION?”

I bolted upright. “SAMANTHA.”

She smirked. “Sebastian Sallow, A slytherin of obsession and thirst, admitted that he likes his type to dress a certain way. And we are going to deliver.”

I was already suffering.

“Merlin, Sam! It’s almost winter! Do not kill me!”

“Oh, please,” she said with a dismissive wave. “There are several ways to achieve what Sebastian wants.”

I narrowed my eyes. “And how do you know that?”

And then she did the worst thing possible.

She pulled out a small, innocent-looking book.

I recognized it immediately.

A manual.

Another one.

My stomach dropped.

I snatched it out of her hands, eyes scanning the cover. Oh, no. Oh, no no no—

I knew this signature.

I knew it too well.

“SAMANTHA, HOW DID YOU GET ANOTHER ONE?!”

She grinned like a menace. “Oh, I wrote to your mother.”

I. Stopped. Breathing.

“YOU DID WHAT?!”

“I wrote to your mother about how impressed I was with her manual,” she continued, completely ignoring my distress. “And then she sent me another one.”

I was dying.

She leaned in, her smile pure evil.

“One that she says you might burn if you found out.”

My soul left my body.

I flipped to the first page, then the second, then the third, and threw it across the room as if it physically burned me.

Samantha laughed.

“Oh, I learned so much, Jessa. And I will help you.”

I covered my face with my hands.

“I hate you.”

“No, you don’t.”

“Yes. I do.”

She plopped onto my bed, eyes glinting with pure chaos.

“Oh, don’t be so dramatic,” she said, ignoring my suffering. “You will not die of cold. You will wear proper clothes. At least on the outside.”

And then she winked.

I stared.

And then I saw it.

In her hands.

White.

Lace.

I choked.

“SAMANTHA, WHERE DID YOU GET THAT?”

She smirked. “Your mother sent it to me.”

I fell back onto my bed, utterly ruined.

I was never getting out of this alive.
___

The whole night was torture.

Samantha instructed me relentlessly, flipping through the new manual like an enthusiastic professor preparing for an important lecture.

I did my best to commit everything to memory, but Merlin, my mother.

No wonder she caught my father.

The strategies. The techniques. The psychology.

“See, Jessa, your mother was thinking ahead. That’s why she wrote this down,” Samantha mused, tapping the book like it was sacred scripture. “She knew you’d be a menace to society.”

I shot her a flat look.

“She knows you’re hopeless,” she corrected.

That was worse.

Samantha prattled on for hours until, thankfully, she grew too tired and collapsed onto her bed.

I let out a long sigh, rubbing my temples.

Yes, I had my first official date with Sebastian tomorrow.

But San Bakar’s Tower loomed in my mind like a storm on the horizon.

I shoved the thought away. Tonight wasn’t about that.

I allowed one sliver of excitement to creep in as I thought of Sebastian.

Our first real date.

One without battles, curses, or dangerous creatures.

I smiled to myself. For once, just a simple moment with him.

____

The next morning, Samantha struck like a damn bolt of lightning.

She yanked me out of bed, ushering me to the Great Hall before I could so much as protest.

When we arrived, my three suitors were already there.

And, much to our friends’ horror, we were all still following the rules.

The moment I sat down between Sebastian and Ominis, the entire table stared.

Leander slowly put his goblet down.

Amit blinked. “They lasted two days?”

Poppy gasped. “That’s… discipline.”

Garreth groaned dramatically. “This isn’t right. I expected chaos!”

Jace, who was buttering his toast, narrowed his eyes. “I don’t buy it.”

I ignored them, reaching for my tea, but Samantha, of course, refused to let things go.

“Ohhh, but that’s just for now. Jessa has a date today, remember?” she said sweetly, elbowing me.

Every head snapped toward me.

Ominis exhaled sharply through his nose. “We are painfully aware.”

Sebastian, in contrast, looked thoroughly pleased with himself.

Garreth smirked. “Ohh, lucky you, Sallow.”

Sebastian grinned. “I am, aren’t I?”

Ominis scowled. I quickly changed the subject before they started hexing each other.

Quidditch & The Robe Crisis

After breakfast, we all went to watch Quidditch practice.

I was just observing the field, casually appreciating the crisp air, when Sebastian and Garreth stepped out in their Quidditch robes.

And I.

Was.

Ruined.

Samantha nudged me. Hard. “Oh, dear. Something’s happening to you.”

I stared.

Trousers tucked into boots. Coats hugging their figures just right. The air of confidence. The windswept hair.

I needed to leave immediately.

Garreth noticed my staring, smirked, and sent a wink my way.

Sebastian, ever the competitive menace, shot him a glare before flashing me a grin that should be illegal.

“I think I’m dying,” I whispered.

“Oh, it gets worse,” Samantha said smugly.

And then I saw Leander in a Quidditch uniform.

Not a second later, Samantha stopped breathing.

I turned to her slowly.

Her eyes were locked on Leander like a hunter spotting prey.

And then she sighed dreamily.

“Oh, this is delicious,” I whispered gleefully.

She blinked rapidly, snapping out of her trance. “Shut up!”

I cackled.

“Oh, you are drooling!”

Natty snorted. “It is rather concerning how much she’s staring.”

Leander, oblivious, wiped sweat off his forehead.

Samantha practically whimpered.

Poppy gasped. “You want to lick the sweat, don’t you?”

Samantha slapped a hand over Poppy’s mouth.

We all lost it.

Between us dying over Quidditch uniforms and the general chaos of the school, more disasters struck.

•Natty and Amit nearly got caught flirting by her mother, Professor Onai. When Professor Onai walked by, Amit practically collapsed into his books.

•Poppy tripped over her books and fell onto Everette. The entire courtyard witnessed it. The teasing was endless.

•Leander looked at Samantha for too long. She malfunctioned. I was concerned for her health.

Eventually, the sun dipped lower, and I knew what was coming.

Samantha grabbed me and dragged me back to our dormitory.

It was time.

“You have two goals tonight,” Samantha declared, digging through my wardrobe.

I groaned.

“Oh, relax.” She waved me off.

“For the outside,” she continued, pulling out a soft, elegant cloak and a dress that was demure and innocent, perfect for the cold winds of Feldcroft.

I exhaled. “See? This is fine. This is good.”

“And for the inside,” she added.

I froze.

She pulled out the white lace.

The cursed white lace.

I choked. “SAMANTHA.”

She beamed. “Now, hold still.”

The Final Touches

As she adjusted my cloak, she grinned.

“Oh, I cannot wait to see Sebastian’s reaction.”

I sighed dramatically. “I am going to die.”

Samantha patted my shoulder. “And you will die beautifully.”

I shoved her.

___

The moment Sebastian and I stepped into the Entrance Hall, I realized I had an entourage.

An actual entourage.

•My friends, all grinning like mad.

•Vix, Valor, and Jace, standing like bodyguards.

•Ominis, scowling like I had just declared war on his entire existence.

For Merlin’s sake, I was just going on a date.

The sheer audacity of this group.

Sebastian, of course, was reveling in it. Smug, confident, thoroughly enjoying the show.

Ominis, however, was not.

His scowl deepened when Sebastian glanced at me with a smirk.

I waited until no one was looking and leaned up to press a quick kiss against Ominis’ cheek.

His frown faltered.

For exactly two seconds.

Then it came back.

“Remember the rules, Sallow,” Ominis said, his arms crossed, voice dangerously low.

Sebastian grinned wider. “Oh, I will.”

Valor narrowed his eyes. “Back before curfew.”

“Yes, Father,” Sebastian quipped.

Jace snorted.

The teasing continued until Samantha dramatically wiped away a fake tear.

“Our little Jessa is going on her first official date with Sebastian Sallow.”

Poppy sighed wistfully. “I feel like I should be proud.”

Amit nodded sagely. “Truly, a historic moment.”

Natty pretended to dab at her eyes. “They grow up so fast.”

Garreth, bless him, simply winked at me.

And then we finally left.

____

The Floo Network spit us out into Feldcroft, and for once, I didn’t have to dodge an attack.

Instead, I was immediately wrapped in a warm, firm hug.

From Uncle Solomon.

Sebastian visibly froze.

Anne gasped.

And I?

I just… stood there, awkwardly trapped in the arms of the man who had once tried to hex Sebastian for being an idiot.

“Uh… hello, Uncle Solomon?” Sebastian finally managed.

Uncle Solomon pulled back slightly and gripped my shoulders, looking me up and down.

“I should’ve known you were the one who fixed my niece,” he muttered. “I knew it the moment you showed up with that spell, but I didn’t realize the full extent of what you were doing.”

He patted my cheek (which made Sebastian nearly pass out from shock) and sighed.

“And now I see you’re dealing with the foolish courtship of my nephew.”

Sebastian scowled. “I am standing right here.”

Uncle Solomon ignored him and turned back to me. “I apologize. Truly. You don’t deserve this kind of suffering.”

Anne cackled.

Sebastian looked personally offended.

“You—”

“I take no responsibility for this boy’s reckless behavior,” Uncle Solomon continued solemnly. “You are a brave woman.”

I bit my lip to keep from laughing.

Sebastian groaned. “Oh, for Merlin’s sake.”

Anne, who had finally caught her breath, rushed forward and hugged me tightly.

“I am so happy you’re here,” she whispered, squeezing me tighter.

I hugged her back, relieved to see her so full of life.

That was when I noticed the trunks and scattered papers.

She was packing.

“You’re preparing for Hogwarts?” I asked.

Anne nodded enthusiastically. “I have so much to catch up on. I’ve been reviewing my books, writing notes, and even trying a few spells again.”

“You’ll be back in a few days, then?”

“Yes!” she beamed. “And I expect you to personally give me a tour of all the new chaos.”

I laughed. “Oh, you have no idea.”

Sebastian huffed. “I’d like to remind everyone that I am still here.”

Anne ignored him.

Instead, she turned to me and said, “Keep him in check.”

“I am perfectly in check—”

“And if he misbehaves,” Uncle Solomon added, “you have my full permission to hex him.”

Sebastian threw his hands up.

Anne and I giggled.

___

As we finally left the Sallow house, I could still hear Anne and Uncle Solomon cackling behind us.

Sebastian grumbled the entire way.

“I feel so incredibly unsupported.”

“You’re not.”

“Even you laughed at me.”

“Because it was funny.”

He sighed dramatically.

“Now, let’s be serious,” I said, grabbing his hand. “What did Anne actually say before we left?”

Sebastian groaned.

“She said to be respectful.”

“That’s good advice.”

“And then she said that if I do anything to ‘compromise your honor,’ she’ll hex my kneecaps off.”

I snorted.

“That’s… actually rather creative.”

“She meant it.”

“I have no doubt.”

Sebastian sighed again.

“Well, then,” I said, squeezing his hand. “Shall we start our date?”

He grinned. “Lead the way, love.”
___

Sebastian led me through the rolling hills of Feldcroft, his grip firm but gentle, his excitement barely contained. The air was crisp, laced with the scent of autumn leaves and a distant fire burning in one of the cottages below.

I followed him up a narrow stone path, past the remnants of an old fence, until the trail opened up to a hidden clearing.

And then—I stopped dead in my tracks.

A field of white flowers stretched before us, glowing under the soft candlelight scattered across the secluded area. The delicate petals swayed with the cool evening breeze, releasing a fragrance so intoxicatingly fresh that I had to close my eyes for a moment just to take it all in.

In the middle of the clearing sat a small wooden table, barely large enough for two, set with plates of food that looked far better than anything Hogwarts’ kitchens had ever provided.

The sky above was clear and endless, dark blue merging into streaks of silver where the stars stretched over the landscape. The candle flames flickered, casting golden halos against the petals, and the entire place felt like something out of a dream.

I turned to Sebastian, mouth slightly agape.

“Bas…” I breathed. “I—you did this?”

Sebastian, to his credit, looked a little smug. “Well, Anne and Uncle Solomon helped with the food.”

I laughed, shaking my head.

“I didn’t know you were this… romantic.”

He grinned. “Oh, love, you really don’t know the half of it.”

I took another step, my fingers grazing the delicate white blossoms, their scent like fresh snow and moonlight.

“These flowers…” I murmured.

“They’re called Star Lilies,” Sebastian said, watching me carefully. “They only bloom under moonlight. My father brought my mother here on their first date.”

My breath caught.

“This was their place?”

Sebastian nodded. “I never really told anyone. Not even Ominis.”

I turned to him, my heart softening. “And you’re bringing me here?”

He lifted my hand and pressed a soft kiss against my knuckles.

“I thought it was fitting,” he murmured against my skin. “You mean everything to me, Jessa.”

Merlin’s bloody beard.

I was in trouble.

The teasing remark I had planned to say died in my throat.

Instead, I let him lead me to the table, where he pulled out my chair with a ridiculous amount of flourish before taking his own seat across from me.

Dinner with a Side of Sallow Shenanigans

We ate slowly, savoring the warmth of the meal and the crispness of the air.

And Sebastian, being Sebastian, found endless entertainment in recounting all the ways he had frayed his uncle’s nerves.

“I swear to you,” he said between bites, “Solomon actually locked me out of the house for a full hour because I turned the kitchen into a brewing station.”

“You didn’t,” I gasped, laughing.

“I did,” he grinned. “He said he wouldn’t let me back inside until I ‘fully understood the consequences of my reckless existence.’”

I snorted. “What did you do?”

“Sat outside. Ate an entire loaf of bread while glaring at the door. Anne thought it was hilarious.”

I giggled.

Sebastian leaned forward, resting his chin on his hand. “You know, it’s a miracle I survived my childhood.”

“Oh, absolutely,” I said, deadpan.

“I mean, really,” he continued. “Between my questionable decision-making and Anne’s mischievous streak, Solomon never stood a chance.”

“He still doesn’t,” I teased. “You do realize he hates the fact that you’re courting me?”

Sebastian grinned wickedly. “Oh, I know. That’s what makes it fun.”

Dancing Among the Stars

When we finished, Sebastian stood and extended a hand toward me.

I arched a brow. “What?”

He smirked. “Dance with me.”

I laughed. “Sebastian, there’s no music—”

Before I could finish, he flicked his wand, and the clearing filled with the softest, most delicate melody I had ever heard.

A spellwoven song.

The strings hummed like a whispered lullaby, blending perfectly with the rustling of the star lilies.

Sebastian watched me expectantly, that dangerous smirk still lingering on his lips.

Oh, Merlin’s beard.

I placed my hand in his.

His fingers curled around mine, and he pulled me gently into his arms.

The moment we started swaying, the world fell away.

It was just me and him, surrounded by candlelight and stars.

He pressed his forehead against mine, breath warm against my lips.

“You’re incredible, Jessa,” he murmured.

I closed my eyes, letting myself sink into the moment, into him.

His arms tightened around me.

The kiss deepened, an intoxicating mix of heat and longing, tongues brushing, lips pressing, my breath stolen by the sheer desperation of it.

Sebastian’s hands roamed hungrily, mapping every inch of me as though he were memorizing the curve of my body. I clung to him, my fingers threading through his dark hair, nails raking lightly over his scalp, earning a low growl that sent shivers racing down my spine.

I gasped between kisses, barely able to keep up.

“Bas,” I whispered against his lips. “We’re outside.”

He chuckled darkly, trailing his mouth down the column of my throat, nipping, sucking.

“Don’t worry, love. I warded the place,” he murmured, his lips brushing over my pulse.

I barely had time to react before he moved lower, his mouth finding the delicate spot just above my collarbone.

“What if Anne and Uncle Solomon try to find us?” I breathed, my voice faltering as his teeth grazed my skin, his tongue following slow and torturous.

He smirked against my neck.

“Oh, I know they wouldn’t risk it.”

And then—I let go.

I let him consume me.

The kiss turned ravenous, all restraint shattering as hands fumbled, clothes slipping away in the moonlit glow. My breath hitched when his fingers traced the straps of my dress, slowly peeling it away, revealing—

The White lace.

I watched his entire expression shift.

His pupils dilated, his breath hitched, his jaw tensed as his fingers twitched over my now-exposed skin.

And then—

He lunged.

I found myself pushed down onto a bed of white lilies, the cool petals soft against my burning skin.

Sebastian hovered over me, his dark eyes devouring me, taking in the delicate lace that left nothing to the imagination.

For a moment, he just stared.

His Adam’s apple bobbed as he swallowed hard, his breath coming in shallow pants.

“You are…” His voice was wrecked, shaking. “Merlin’s fucking gift to me.”

His fingers traced over the lace, dragging slowly, reverently down my stomach.

“The way you look under the stars,” he murmured, eyes drinking me in. “Your skin against the white petals… your blue eyes shining in the candlelight.”

His thumb brushed teasingly over my ribs, his touch featherlight.

I trembled.

“You’re so beautiful, love,” he whispered. “Devastatingly, maddeningly beautiful.”

His lips trailed lower, pressing hot, open-mouthed kisses along the curve of my breast—over the thin lace that separated him from where he truly wanted to be.

“Bas—” I gasped, arching when his tongue flicked against the sheer fabric, a calculated tease.

“Patience, love,” he murmured against me, his voice deep and husky. “I want to enjoy you like this.”

And enjoy me he did.

He kissed, licked, and sucked every inch of me through the lace, letting the fabric torment me instead of removing it.

His hands held me down, fingers flexing when I twitched beneath him.

I trembled, my body singing under his touch.

My fingers tightened in his hair.

I moaned softly, the sound breaking from me without control.

Sebastian groaned, his lips pausing against my stomach.

“Fuck,” he muttered, his voice rasping.

I smiled—I had power over him, too.

And then I saw him.

Under the moonlight, bathed in the soft hues of candlelight, Sebastian Sallow was breathtaking.

His hair a mess from my fingers, his lips flushed from kissing me, his skin illuminated in golden shadows.

And I remembered.

The promise I made in the Room of Requirement.

I smirked.

It was my turn.

With a swift motion, I pushed against him, flipping him onto his back.

Sebastian barely had time to react before I was straddling him, my thighs on either side of his hips.

His eyes darkened, his hands gripping my waist instantly.

“Jessa,” he warned, his voice a mix of lust and desperation.

I ignored him.

I leaned down, my lips grazing the shell of his ear.

“Remember the promise I made?” I whispered.

His fingers tightened.

And then I kissed him.

His temple first.

Then his cheekbone.

Then lower—his jaw, his throat, the sharp line of his collarbone.

“You are devastatingly handsome, Bas.”

His grip on me trembled.

I dragged my lips lower.

“I love everything about you.”

His chest heaved beneath me, anticipation rolling off him in waves.

“These little scars,” I whispered, pressing my lips to one near his shoulder.

“This damn sprinkle of freckles,” I kissed lower, watching as his jaw clenched.

“These cocky, beautiful lips.” I nipped at his lower lip, earning a wrecked groan.

And then—

I went lower.

Down the center of his chest.

Down his stomach.

His breath hitched, his body tensing beneath me.

His hands twitched but didn’t stop me.

His head rolled back against the flowers, his throat exposed.

His fingers threaded through my hair, his grip tightening.

And then he groaned.

A low, wrecked sound that had heat pooling in my stomach.

I liked that.

Sebastian rolled his eyes back, panting.

“Fuck.”

And then—

With a sharp, desperate movement, he flipped me onto my back, pinning me beneath him.

I barely had time to react before—

The lace tore.

I gasped, staring up at him, wide-eyed.

Sebastian hovered over me, his chest heaving, his pupils blown.

His hands ghosted over my now-exposed skin, reveling in how utterly ruined I looked beneath him.

He licked his lips.

“Mine,” he whispered, pressing his forehead against mine.

“All mine.”

And then—

His hands roamed, his lips worshipped, his mouth claimed, pressing hot, open-mouthed kisses to my bare skin, leaving a trail of fire and need in his wake.

I arched beneath him, my breath coming in ragged gasps.

“Bas,” I whimpered, my fingers curling in his hair.

His teeth grazed just below my ribs, his tongue following slow and teasing.

I trembled.

“Don’t leave too many marks,” I begged, knowing full well the absolute menace that he was.

Sebastian smirked against my skin.

“Oh, love,” he whispered, his lips brushing over my hip. “I will leave marks.”

His voice was **low, dark—**a promise.

His fingers ghosted down my stomach, sending shivers up my spine.

“Just… not where anyone can see,” he murmured.

And then—he proved it.

He sealed his mouth to the most hidden, forbidden parts of me, his hands pinning my thighs apart, his tongue skilled and devastating.

My back arched violently, a strangled moan escaping my lips.

I clamped my hands over my mouth, trying—desperately trying—not to scream his name into the quiet night air.

But Sebastian was having none of that.

With a wicked smirk, he grabbed my wrists, pinning them above my head.

“Oh no, love,” he purred, his lips brushing against my thigh. “I want to hear you.”

And then—

I shattered, gasping his name like a prayer, my body shaking beneath him.

I had no control, no composure.

And Sebastian?

He devoured every sound.

He left marks, soft and dark, hidden beneath my ribs, along my thighs, behind my knees.

He took everything.

And I—I gave it all.

But I wasn’t just a helpless victim to his relentless hunger.

No—I did him favors, too.

I dragged my nails down his freckled chest, kissing every inch of his burning skin.

I let my hands wander—low, lower, to the places I knew would drive him insane.

His body tensed beneath my touch.

His head fell back, his eyes squeezing shut as he groaned my name, voice wrecked and desperate, like I had just given him the world.

He wanted to cross the line.

He almost did.

Several times.

His hips pinned mine, his movements nearly reckless, his lips muttering things against my skin that made me burn.

But he stopped.

Again. And again. And again.

Every time he came too close, I did what I knew would calm him down.

Just like those books the girls and I read.

And Merlin, did they work.

His breath stuttered, his grip tightened, his body shuddered beneath my touch.

And when he came apart, his eyes locked onto mine, dark and full of pure, unfiltered adoration.

I was ruined.

He was devastated.

And it was so hard—so painfully hard—not to give in completely.

Sebastian collapsed beside me, his forehead resting against my bare shoulder, his breath hot and heavy against my neck.

“You’re going to kill me, love,” he rasped, his voice hoarse and wrecked.

I smiled, my fingers trailing down his sweat-slicked back.

“You’re still breathing, aren’t you?” I teased.

He growled playfully, rolling on top of me again.

“Barely.”

And then, with a sly grin, he whispered,

“We’ll have to try harder next time.”
___

I looked at the state of us—our bodies still bare, flushed, covered in the lingering evidence of our indulgence—and then at the flowers beneath us, now entirely crushed.

I let out a soft chuckle, tracing my fingers along Sebastian’s freckled shoulder.

“Now what would your parents think?” I mused, smirking.

Sebastian, still dazed and far too proud of himself, gave me his signature grin.

“That their son has some remarkable skills.”

I rolled my eyes, smacking his chest, but he only laughed, kissing the inside of my wrist before sitting up.

He reached for our discarded clothes, gathering them while I stretched, letting the cool night air kiss my skin one last time.

Then, as he helped me dress—fixing the straps of my torn lingerie with delicate fingers—his hand suddenly paused, brushing along my collarbone.

I shivered, not from the cold, but from the tender way he touched me.

And then, I felt it.

Something cold and smooth, slipping around my neck, settling perfectly against my skin.

I gasped.

“Bas… what—?”

I reached up, fingers brushing against a silver necklace, and at its center—a stunning blue gemstone, shimmering like liquid moonlight.

It was… beautiful.

My breath hitched as I turned to him, eyes wide with disbelief.

Sebastian smirked but there was softness in his gaze, a kind of deep, unwavering affection that made my chest ache.

“I told you I had the galleons,” he teased.

“You didn’t have to,” I whispered, my fingers tracing the delicate silver chain, still stunned.

“But I wanted to.” His voice was quiet now, filled with something deeper, warmer, infinitely more dangerous.

He cupped my cheek, pressing a slow, lingering kiss to my lips.

“I want you to wear something that’s from me,” he murmured against my mouth, his fingers trailing the necklace, letting it settle just above my heart.

I swallowed thickly, my heart full and aching at the same time.

I had never felt so claimed.

“And what would Mr. Gaunt and Mr. Weasley think?” I teased breathlessly, still overwhelmed.

Sebastian chuckled, his grin turning mischievous.

“Oh, don’t worry, love,” he drawled, his hands ghosting over my waist, pulling me flush against him.

“We had an agreement.”

“…What?” I blinked. “You talked to them about this?”

“Let’s just say,” he mused, pressing a kiss to my jaw, “at one point, Ominis nearly hexed us, and Weasley—well, I thought we’d have to duel it out—but we found a compromise.”

He smirked, tilting my chin up to meet his lips again.

“You’ll see, love,” he whispered before sealing our lips in another slow, intoxicating kiss.

I melted, my fingers curling into his robes, my heart pounding at the weight of his words.

Oh, Merlin. What compromise?

I had a suspicious feeling I was about to find out very soon.

But for now—I let myself enjoy this moment.

We dressed carefully, ensuring that no marks were visible (lest Anne, Uncle Solomon, and my brothers commit murder).

And when he was done fixing my hair, he took a step back, tilting his head as if committing me to memory.

I smiled at him—soft, full of every unspoken word I wasn’t ready to say.

“Thank you,” I whispered.

“For what?” he asked, brow quirked.

“For tonight. For sharing this place with me.”

His expression softened, something tender and devastatingly fond flashing across his face.

“I’d give you every piece of me,” he murmured. “Every secret, every moment.”

And then, he kissed me again.

With our hearts full, we walked back to Feldcroft, our fingers brushing, our steps slow—as if neither of us wanted this night to end.

Back to Reality… Almost

Sebastian barely stepped through the door when Uncle Solomon fixed him with a look.

Not just any look—the look.

The look that said, I know what you’ve been up to, and I’m deciding whether or not to throw you into the Black Lake.

Sebastian, the arrogant, smooth-talking menace, froze like a caught Niffler.

Anne, however, was having the time of her life, leaning against the table with a knowing smirk as she watched her brother suffer.

“Long walk?” Uncle Solomon finally said, his tone dangerously casual.

Sebastian, still standing stiff as a board, cleared his throat. “Er—yep. Took in the scenery.”

Uncle Solomon’s eyes narrowed.

“A lot of scenery out there?”

Sebastian nodded a little too quickly. “Oh, tons. Endless.”

Uncle Solomon huffed through his nose, muttering something about ‘bloody Sallow men and their reckless tendencies’, before turning his sharp gaze to me.

And I—ever the picture of innocence, smiled sweetly.

“Did you have a nice time, Jessa?” he asked, far too politely.

I kept my expression neutral, ignoring the way Anne was barely containing her laughter behind her tea.

“Yes,” I said primly. “Sebastian was a perfect gentleman.”

Anne snorted.

Sebastian choked.

Uncle Solomon just stared at me, as if he could see straight through my lie.

“Hmm,” he grunted, not buying it for a second.

Anne smirked at me, her eyes twinkling with mischief.

“You and Samantha will get along far too well,” I muttered, hugging her goodbye before her teasing could get worse.

She simply winked.

Sebastian was not off the hook yet, as Uncle Solomon grabbed his shoulder with a grip that made him wince.

“Inside,” his uncle ordered.

Sebastian shot me a helpless look before he was dragged away.

I quickly made my exit.
___

As soon as I stepped out of the Floo, I saw him.

Ominis.

Standing right there, waiting—seething but composed.

His face was unreadable, but I knew better.

He took one step forward, and before I could even speak, he grabbed me by the waist and kissed me.

Not just a kiss.

This was a statement.

A reminder.

A claim.

It was deep, slow, possessive—his lips crushing against mine with a frustration I knew had been brewing since I left.

I let out a soft gasp, gripping onto his robes for balance.

And then, as quickly as it started, he pulled away.

His voice was low, controlled, dangerously smooth.

“My turn tomorrow.”

And just like that, he left.

Sebastian, still standing beside me, ticked his jaw, his eyes locked on Ominis’s retreating figure.

And then—to my utter shock—he laughed.

A real, genuinely amused laugh.

“You lot always think I’m the jealous one,” he said, shaking his head with disbelief.

I raised a brow, still breathless from the kiss. “You are.”

Sebastian smirked, but there was a glint of admiration in his eyes.

“Oh, I am,” he agreed. “But Ominis?” He gave a low whistle. “That man operates on another level. I don’t think I could even reach it.”

I rolled my eyes, still feeling the ghost of Ominis’s lips against mine.

Before I could respond, I felt another presence behind me.

A very familiar, very dangerous presence.

Oh no.

Valor.

Sebastian and I turned at the same time, finding my eldest brother standing there, arms crossed, watching us with an unreadable expression.

For a moment, he said nothing.

Then, he nodded, his voice calm but firm.

“Sebastian brought you back on time. Good.”

Sebastian exhaled slightly, like he’d just passed a deadly trial.

But then, Valor’s sharp green eyes flickered toward Ominis’s retreating form.

He raised a brow. “I will let go of that Ominis. Just this once.”

I blinked.

Just this once?

Sebastian snickered under his breath.

I glared at him.

Valor simply gestured toward the castle.

“Come on, Jessa.”

Knowing better than to argue, I sighed and followed him, but not before stealing one last glance at Sebastian—

The man I had just shared a magical night with.

His brown eyes locked onto mine, something soft and knowing in his gaze.

And just before I was led away, he mouthed—

“I’ll see you soon, love.”

And oh, I was already counting the hours.
____

I took a deep breath, bracing myself before pushing open the dormitory door.

I had barely taken two steps inside when I was ambushed.

A sea of wide-eyed girls, all crowded together on the floor, books and notes scattered around them—but not just any books.

I narrowed my eyes.

The manual.

The new one.

The one that my mother had gifted Samantha—the menace of all menaces.

I opened my mouth to speak, but Samantha beat me to it.

“SO DID IT WORK?”

Poppy gasped, eyes sparkling. Natty leaned forward, too eager. Samantha grinned like she already knew the answer.

Everette, Amit, and Leander were nowhere to be seen—probably banished from the dormitory to keep this conversation sacred.

I sighed dramatically, dropping onto my bed, utterly defeated.

“Well,” I said, rubbing my temples. “Looks like I won’t be using it again.”

A collective gasp.

Poppy’s eyes went huge. “Why?! What happened?! Was it that bad?”

I snorted. “Oh, no. It was too good.”

A second of stunned silence.

And then—

“AHAHAH—SHE RUINED IT!”

Samantha squealed, clutching the book to her chest. Natty threw herself onto my bed in laughter. Poppy turned pink and covered her mouth, muffled giggles escaping.

“I knew it,” Samantha practically sang.

“You knew nothing,” I grumbled.

“Oh, please,” she huffed. “I’ve read this book inside and out—I knew the lace would break him.”

“Technically,” I muttered, “he broke the lace.”

“EVEN BETTER.”

The girls shrieked.

Natty clutched her stomach. “Oh, Merlin, Sebastian must have died.”

“I think I nearly did,” I admitted, fanning my face.

Poppy, ever the innocent one, covered her cheeks, too flustered. “But—it was supposed to be elegant!”

“Oh, it was,” I assured her, smirking. “For the first five seconds.”

That sent them all into another round of chaotic laughter.

Samantha leaned in, voice conspiratorial. “So, how bad was it?”

I raised a brow. “Bad enough that I think Anne felt it from the house.”

Samantha howled. “You didn’t!”

I shrugged. “All I’m saying is… maybe don’t wear lace if you want your boyfriend to remain alive.”

Natty collapsed into a heap of giggles.

“Oh, Merlin,” Poppy gasped, still pink-faced. “If Everette ever saw me in lace—”

“He’d pass out,” I teased.

“Actually,” Samantha corrected, “all of our boys would.”

Poppy giggled into her hands. “Natty, what about Amit? Do you think he’d—”

“He’d forget how to speak,” Natty answered flatly.

We all dissolved into laughter.

Samantha, however, grinned deviously.

“I know for a fact that if Leander ever saw me in lace, he’d lose all brain function.”

“You should test it,” I teased.

“Oh, I will,” she promised.

I rolled my eyes, grinning.

“Just don’t let my mother send you another book.”
___

Morning came too quickly, but I felt lighter.

Last night had been… nice.

Despite the relentless teasing and Samantha’s dramatic reenactments of my date, I had genuinely enjoyed recounting the moment—with most details omitted, of course.

The girls cooed over my new necklace, admiring the silver chain and deep blue gemstone, unknowingly tracing Sebastian’s claim on me.

Samantha, ever the schemer, leaned back on my bed, twirling her wand.

“If Ominis doesn’t one-up him today, I’ll be shocked.”

I laughed, rolling my eyes.

“I’m just going to enjoy my date, Sam. That’s all.”

She snorted, clearly unconvinced. “Sure, sure. Enjoy it while you can, because your suitors are insane and this will never be a normal courtship.”

She wasn’t wrong.

The moment I stepped into the Great Hall, I spotted the disaster unfolding.

At one end of the Ravenclaw table, Amit, Leander, and Everette were huddled together, parchment spread before them, furiously scribbling notes.

And who were they intensely listening to?

Sebastian and Garreth.

Both of them gesturing wildly, demonstrating something with so much passion, it was concerning.

Ominis, seated calmly nearby, appeared entirely unfazed.

I narrowed my eyes.

“What… exactly… are they doing?” I asked, turning to Samantha.

She shrugged.

“Something about ‘technique.’ I stopped listening when the words ‘leverage’ and ‘optimal timing’ were used.”

…Oh, Merlin’s beard.

I took my seat at our usual table, sandwiched between Ominis and Sebastian, while Garreth settled across from me.

And as always, the ritual began.

Sebastian, effortlessly smooth, placed my plate in front of me, pouring my tea exactly the way I liked it. Ominis, not missing a beat, adjusted my utensils, tucking my napkin into place with quiet precision.

I sighed dramatically, knowing my entire house was watching in horror.

Garreth, grinning, merely set a stolen pastry in front of me, as if that was his contribution.

“Here you go, sweets. Breakfast, Gryffindor-style.”

The girls, seated a few spots down, snickered.

Jace, not missing a single detail, zeroed in on my necklace.

His eyebrow arched.

“Ohhh.”

A smirk curled at his lips as he leaned forward, eyes locked onto Sebastian.

“Showing off the galleons now, huh, Sallow?”

Sebastian, mid-sip of his tea, paused.

Slowly, he lowered his cup.

I saw the corner of his mouth twitch, his cocky arrogance slipping back into place.

“I told you, Jace. I had the galleons.”

Jace mockingly whistled, turning to me.

“Must be nice, Jessa. I didn’t think this one”—he gestured lazily at Sebastian—“had it in him to go all out.”

Sebastian, ever the competitive menace, casually draped his arm behind my chair, fingers brushing my shoulder.

“Oh, you have no idea.”

Ominis, exhaling sharply, pinched the bridge of his nose.

Garreth, already knowing where this was going, bit into his stolen pastry, clearly entertained.

Jace just shook his head.

“Merlin. You three make my head hurt.”

I took a sip of my tea, barely hiding my smirk.

The day had barely started.

Potion class was… a disaster.

Not for me, of course. I was doing perfectly fine.

But for my friends?

Amit nearly set his own notes on fire.

Everett somehow turned his cauldron into a boiling sentient blob that refused to die.

Leander’s potion exploded. Twice.

And then, of course, Garreth Weasley had to go and make it worse.

Garreth, grinning like an absolute menace, leaned forward, whispering to me.

“Sweets, do you think this bezoar would enhance my potion?”

I paused.

“…Garreth.”

Professor Sharp exhaled slowly, rubbing his temples as if he could feel his lifeline shortening by the second.

“Weasley.”

Garreth froze mid-drop.

“…Yes, Professor?”

“Do not put that in your potion.”

Garreth blinked.

“…Not even a little?”

“Get out.”

Garreth groaned, grabbing his books as he was once again exiled from class.

I sighed, turning back to my own work, when I noticed Leander’s cauldron hissing violently.

“…Leander?”

BOOM.

Another explosion.

Sharp looked seconds away from cursing us all into oblivion.

Transfiguration class was somehow worse.

We were supposed to transfigure chickens into objects.

Simple, right?

Wrong.

Poppy’s chicken turned into a tiny dragon that immediately breathed fire.

Amit’s chicken exploded into feathers instead of transforming.

Everett’s chicken transfigured into an actual teacup—only for the teacup to sprout wings and fly away.

Leander’s chicken turned into a pineapple that was definitely alive and definitely glaring at him.

And then there was Garreth.

Garreth, who was NOT satisfied with a simple transfiguration.

Garreth, who decided to ‘enhance’ the spell.

Instead of turning his chicken into an object, he turned it into a goose.

And not just any goose.

A large, aggressive, honking goose that immediately chased him across the classroom, honking like a demon from the depths of hell.

Professor Weasley sighed, watching her class descend into chaos.

“I do not get paid enough for this.”

After classes, we went to watch Quidditch practice, which was always entertaining.

Not just because Garreth and Sebastian looked ridiculous in their Quidditch robes—though I definitely enjoyed that.

But because of Samantha Dale.

More specifically, Samantha Dale losing her mind over Leander Prewett.

The moment a random girl waved at Leander, Samantha spiraled.

“Who is that?”

We all immediately tuned in.

Natty leaned forward. “Should we intervene?”

Poppy shook her head. “No. We let this play out.”

Samantha, very obviously trying to stay calm, watched as the girl laughed at something Leander said.

And then she stood up.

“Oh, this is going to be good.”

We grabbed snacks and settled in as if this were a grand performance.

Sebastian, amused, leaned over. “Should we stop her?”

Ominis, sipping his tea, responded flatly—“Why?”

Garreth, grinning, whispered, “Five galleons says she hexes him before the practice ends.”

I giggled, watching as Samantha stormed toward Leander.

Meanwhile, my suitors were suffering.

We were still following the rules.

We weren’t sitting too close.

We weren’t flirting.

We weren’t casually touching.

It was killing them.

Sebastian kept fidgeting.

Ominis looked on the verge of snapping.

Garreth, as usual, looked amused.

I giggled.

Oh, this was fun.

I didn’t forget about San Bakar’s Tower.

I didn’t forget about the looming dangers ahead.

But for now—I was just a regular student.

Laughing at chicken disasters, Quidditch chaos, and three incredibly frustrated suitors.
___

The time for my date with Ominis was approaching, and I knew this because Sebastian was practically fuming.

Oh, he was trying to keep his composure—doing his best imitation of being unbothered—but the way his jaw twitched every time Ominis so much as existed was giving him away.

“Meet me at the castle gates,” Ominis murmured, kissing my hand. His voice, his touch—dangerously smooth.

Sebastian was not amused.

I leaned over, kissed Sebastian quickly, hoping to calm him down when no one was looking.

It didn’t work.

“You two better behave,” he muttered, gripping my waist a little too tightly before stepping back.

Samantha and the girls?

Menaces.

“It’s going to be a formal date.”

And that’s all they needed to hear before dragging me away to prepare me like a sacrificial lamb.

Then, as if they had all received divine intervention, Samantha clapped her hands, eyes lighting up with unholy amusement.

“Wait—he said it, remember?”

Natty gasped. “Oh, Merlin.”

Poppy grinned. “During the truth serum disaster.”

Ominis, under the influence of Veritaserum, had once admitted he wanted something ‘nice to touch and easy to slip off.’

And my friends had not forgotten.

They got to work.

By the time they were done with me, I looked in the mirror and swallowed hard.

Oh, this was dangerous.

The Castle Gates—A Bloody Prince

I walked toward the castle gates, bracing myself.

Then I saw him.

And my mouth dropped.

No.

Not just mine.

Everyone’s.

Because Ominis Gaunt was waiting for me in a carriage.

Not the same charming, slightly reckless carriage Garreth had gotten for our date.

No.

This one screamed old money.

Pureblood elegance.

Dark sophistication.

The kind of carriage reserved for nobility, with enchantments that gleamed under the night sky, drawn by thestrals, lined with embroidered silver and deep emerald green.

And then there was Ominis.

Dressed in all black.

A high-collared, midnight-colored coat.

Dark gloves fitted to his elegant fingers.

His platinum blonde hair neatly swept back, revealing his sharp, aristocratic features, the kind of beauty that felt almost unreal.

He looked like a prince of darkness.

And I wanted to kneel right there.

Samantha gripped my arm. “Jessa. Jessa, breathe.”

Poppy was fanning herself. “That’s not fair.”

Natty, eyes wide, whispered. “Are we sure he’s not secretly a vampire?”

Even Vix, who had come to warn Ominis about curfew, took one long look and sighed.

“Gaunt.”

Ominis, utterly composed, inclined his head. “Vix.”

Vix narrowed his eyes. “You will have her back before curfew.”

“Of course.” Ominis smiled, a little too smoothly.

Sebastian and Garreth, standing off to the side, were surprisingly calm.

Too calm.

Oh no.

What did they know?

Before I could question them, Ominis extended his gloved hand toward me, inviting me into the carriage.

And I took it.

As the carriage doors closed behind us, I heard Samantha dramatically sniffle.

“Goodbye, Jessa. It was nice knowing you.”

Poppy sighed. “She’s never coming back.”

I turned to glare at them.

Ominis simply smirked, guiding me into a world of trouble as we rode off into the night.
___

The inside of the carriage was just as magnificent as the outside—deep emerald velvet seats, silver inlays tracing the arching woodwork, the warmth of a slow-burning enchantment keeping the chill away.

Ominis sat beside me, his posture elegant, composed. But I knew him too well.

That carefully placed mask of control? Cracking.

I turned to him, tilting my head, my voice laced with mischief.

“Ominis Gaunt in a carriage like this? What a display.”

“You disapprove?” His voice was smooth, but I heard the faintest amusement beneath it.

“Oh no, my knight. I am simply impressed.”

His lips twitched. “A pity I cannot see how beautiful you look tonight.”

I shifted closer. The space between us vanished.

“Then feel me.”

I took his hands, guiding them over me, letting his fingertips skim over the fabric of my dress—soft, expensive material, something rich against the skin, chosen by my well-meaning but mischievous friends.

Ominis inhaled, his hands ghosting along the curve of my waist, down to where the silk hugged my thighs.

His touch was reverent, exploratory. A man who saw through his fingertips.

“Describe yourself to me,” he murmured.

I took a slow breath, feeling the heat crawl up my spine.

“My hair is pinned up, but not too much—you like it when strands fall around my face, don’t you?”

He swallowed.

“My dress,” I continued, guiding his hand to the intricate lace detail near my collarbone, “is scandalously soft, Ominis. It feels like a whisper, doesn’t it?”

His fingers traced it, his breath shallowing.

“It does.”

“And underneath? A secret. One that’s easy to slip off.”

A muscle in his jaw twitched.

“Damn you,” he muttered.

I grinned, pressing closer. My lips brushed the shell of his ear as I whispered, “Do you know what I thought when I saw you earlier?”

His hands tightened on me, fingers pressing into the fabric.

“Tell me.”

“I wanted to kneel right there and then.”

A pause.

Ominis’ grip on me twitched.

“What a scandal that would have been, don’t you think, my knight?”

He exhaled sharply, his throat bobbing.

“Jessa,” he warned, but his voice—Merlin—his voice was already breaking.

I nipped at his jaw, tracing every damn freckle, every little mole, each one a constellation of his irresistible existence.

“We are in a carriage, my dear damsel.”

“Oh, but Ominis.” I pulled back, meeting his gaze, knowing full well he could feel the heat radiating from me.

“My dress is easy to slip off. And slip on again.”

His fingers twitched. “You’re dangerous.”

“How long until we get to our destination?”

A slow, careful inhale.

And then—

“I can make them slower.” His voice was strained, laced with something dark and starved.

I moved.

I lifted myself, graceful, positioning myself between his legs, kneeling on the floor of the carriage.

Ominis tensed. “Jessa—”

I pressed one hand to his thigh, steady, letting my fingers trail upward, feather-light but purposeful.

“Has anyone told you how devastatingly beautiful you are, my knight?”

Ominis’ hands gripped the seat, knuckles white.

“You—” He exhaled through his teeth, his perfect control splintering.

I kissed his jaw.

Then lower.

Slow, purposeful.

Tracing his moles, the places I knew made him unravel.

His breath shuddered, his hands hovering, not knowing where to grab—because if he touched me now, I knew he would lose himself.

I wanted that.

“Jessa.”

I smiled against his skin.

“Yes, my love?”

His head tilted back slightly, his throat exposed, his breath ragged.

Kneeling before the prince of darkness himself, I watched as Ominis strained for control.

So beautiful. So authoritative.

His hands gripped the edge of the velvet seat, fingers curling into the lush fabric as if it were the only thing tethering him to restraint. How long could he keep it?

I wanted to ruin him.

And I did.

I shifted closer, trailing my hands along the inside of his thighs, feeling the way his muscles tensed beneath my touch.

Ominis exhaled sharply.

“Jessa.” His voice was lower now, rough, warning.

I tilted my head, watching him as if he were something delicious to savor.

“Yes, my love?”

His throat bobbed, his breathing already uneven.

“My dear—” He inhaled sharply when I moved higher, bolder. “Don’t test me.”

I smiled.

“And if I do?”

His hands twitched. His jaw ticked. His usually composed features fractured—and I saw it. The unraveling.

“Then you best be prepared for the consequences.”

I hummed in amusement.

Then—slowly, deliberately—I reached behind me and pulled at the ties of my dress.

The fabric slid from my shoulders, pooled around my waist.

And then—I guided his hands to me.

Ominis’ breath hitched. He was undone.

The gentleman was gone.

His fingers explored, traced, memorized.

“Sweet Salazar,” he murmured, his voice wrecked.

His hands tightened, as if memorizing the curve of my skin, the silk beneath his fingertips. I could feel the delicate tremble in his grip—not from hesitation, but from restraint.

The carriage rocked slightly, but Ominis was immovable, commanding, the heat radiating off of him like an inferno.

His fingers trailed down my spine, over the dip of my waist, tracing the lace and delicate fabric.

“You wore this for me.” His voice was dangerously low, an accusation.

“Of course, my knight,” I whispered, pressing into his touch.

His lips parted, his breathing uneven. I could feel it, the weight of his stare, even though he couldn’t see me.

He didn’t need to. He could feel every damn inch.

And then—his hands tore at the ties of my dress, sliding it further from my skin, until it barely clung to my hips.

Gone was the refined, collected noble.

What sat before me now was a man starved.

And he did not plan to hold back.

I felt his lips ghost against my collarbone, his breath searing.

“Driver.” His voice was authoritative, commanding—the Ominis Gaunt that was feared in the Ministry, that commanded pureblooded halls.

The driver stiffened. “Sir?”

“Take the longer route.”

My eyes widened. “Ominis—”

But I didn’t get to finish.

Because he lunged.

I gasped as my back met the velvet of the carriage seat, Ominis above me, hands caging me in.

His lips found my throat, his breath a curse against my skin.

“You wanted to play, my dear?” His voice was velvet and ruin.

His teeth grazed my pulse.

“Then let me show you what happens when you tempt me.”

My breath hitched as Ominis’ hands slid down my spine, slow, deliberate—possessive.

I could feel the heat radiating off his body, the tension coiling between us, thick as a storm about to break.

And then—

He flipped me over.

I let out a sharp gasp as he pressed me down against the velvet seat of the carriage, my stomach flush against it, my hands gripping the edges.

The movement was swift, calculated—as if he had been thinking about this for far too long.

“Ominis—” I barely managed to say before he leaned down, his breath ghosting over my ear, his voice dark velvet.

“This,” he murmured, lips brushing the shell of my ear, “has been one of the things I wanted to do.”

And then—his hands explored, mapping every curve with reverence and possession.

His fingers trailed down my back, over the swell of my hips, ghosting down my thighs, teasing, torturing—

And then I felt it.

His lips—soft at first, then rougher.

Trailing.

Nipping.

Claiming.

Heat bloomed across my skin, spreading like wildfire.

I arched, a strangled moan slipping out, and I felt him smirk against me.

“So responsive,” he whispered against my skin, his voice thick with hunger.

I gripped the plush seat tighter, helpless against the way my body betrayed me.

Ominis relished every sound, every twitch, every plea.

He did not slow down.

He did not falter.

Every touch, every press of his lips, every flick of his tongue—he made sure I felt all of it.

And then—

He found the place he was looking for.

My world shattered.

A scream—his name ripped from my lips, a broken, desperate prayer.

Ominis groaned, the sound sinful and utterly wrecked.

“Again.”

He demanded.

And I—I had nothing left to give.

But he was not finished.

His lips traced back up, branding me anew, whispering filth, worship, devotion.

“You are mine.” His voice, hoarse, kissed along my spine.

“Say it.”

I gasped, fingers trembling against the seat.

“I’m yours.”

The words broke from me, raw and unfiltered.

Ominis groaned against my skin, biting back a curse.

The carriage swayed, the driver completely unaware—or maybe very aware—but I did not care.

Ominis had me.

And Merlin—I never wanted him to let go.

As the carriage slowed, I hurriedly fixed my dress, cheeks flushed, hair a mess, and Ominis… well, Ominis was utterly composed—except for the smirk playing at his lips.

The driver hesitated. I swore I saw his hand hover, debating whether he should knock or just let us pretend this entire ride didn’t happen.

A soft knock.

Ominis cleared his throat. “We’ve arrived.”

The door opened, and I stepped out into a world that took my breath away.

Before me stood the ruins of an ancient temple, shrouded in ivy, bathed in moonlight, its towering pillars carved with stories of old magic.

Silver-blue flames lined the grand staircase, flickering in glass lanterns.

It was hauntingly beautiful. Timeless. Sacred.

I turned to Ominis, utterly enchanted.

“What is this place?”

His fingers ghosted over mine before he took my hand, guiding me forward.

“The Forgotten Temple of Asteria,” he said, voice soft yet reverent.

I turned to him, brows furrowing. “Asteria?”

“The first known Seer,” he murmured, “and the woman who was said to have built the foundations of prophecy within our world. She wielded magic unlike any seen before—a magic tied to the stars, to fate itself.”

I stared in utter disbelief.

An entire temple dedicated to a woman who had wielded magic beyond comprehension.

A forgotten temple of knowledge, of prophecy, of magic older than the Keep.

I turned back to him, my Ravenclaw heart swelling in delight.

“Ominis,” I whispered, “you brought me to a forbidden archive?”

His lips tilted into the slightest smirk.

“I pulled some strings.”

I was gone.

This was a dream, a story, a fairytale wrapped in forbidden knowledge.

Ominis held onto my hand, his thumb tracing my knuckles.

“Come, my dear,” he whispered against my ear, “let me show you a world that even the Ministry fears.”

And I followed.

The moment I stepped past the threshold, a ripple of magic passed through my bones, like the temple itself was waking up—or recognizing me.

The air inside was cool, crisp, laced with the scent of old parchment, ink, and something faintly floral—as if the ghosts of ancient scholars still lingered.

Shelves of books rose high above us, carved into the very stone walls, their spines glowing faintly with runes I couldn’t recognize. Golden, silver, and deep sapphire-colored texts filled the chamber—books that had not been touched for centuries.

Ominis held my hand, guiding me carefully.

“This library… it is hidden from even the most elite in the Ministry,” he murmured, voice low and reverent. “Few have seen it. Even fewer have walked its halls.”

His fingers ghosted over the tomes, lips curling slightly as he listened to the energy humming through the chamber.

I knew what he was doing—listening to the magic.

“Do you hear them?” I asked softly.

He nodded. “It is as if the books themselves are whispering.”

I shivered.

This was sacred. Forbidden.

“You brought me to paradise,” I whispered, feeling the sheer weight of history press against me.

He turned, smiling softly. “It is only paradise because you are here.”

I stared at him, my heart aching in the best possible way.

Ominis Gaunt, the boy who feared his own name, had brought me to the most sacred place of knowledge.

After hours of wandering—exploring the hidden corridors, unearthing forgotten texts, and teasing each other relentlessly—Ominis guided me to one final place.

Through a hidden passage, up a spiraling staircase, and past a door marked with silver runes, we entered a domed chamber bathed in pure moonlight.

I gasped.

The ceiling was entirely glass, revealing the glittering night sky above us.

Blue and silver light cascaded down, illuminating the intricate carvings on the walls—stories of a woman wrapped in constellations, her hands outstretched to a man bathed in shadow.

I traced the carvings with wide eyes.

“Asteria and her lover,” Ominis whispered behind me.

I turned to him. “Their story?”

“It was said that Asteria loved a man who was cursed to the shadows.” His voice was softer now, almost reverent. “She could only meet him under the light of the full moon, when his form was no longer lost to darkness.”

My heart stilled.

How utterly tragic. How beautiful.

How… familiar.

Ominis took a step closer, my back brushing against the carved stone as he gently tilted my chin up.

“She built this place for him. A sanctuary where they could love without fear.”

I swallowed, my fingers curling around the fabric of his coat.

“Ominis…”

His breath ghosted over my lips. “I would have done the same.”

I had to physically pull myself together after that moment.

Ominis, ever the gentleman (and menace), had prepared dinner for us on the balcony overlooking the ruins.

A table of simple, elegant dishes—a mix of Hogwarts favorites and delicacies I had never even heard of.

We ate, we talked, and then—I told him.

“I gained my memories back,” I admitted, setting my fork down.

Ominis stilled, his fingers pausing on his wine glass.

His blind eyes searched for me despite not seeing, and I knew he was trying to gauge my expression.

“You remember…?” His voice was careful, hesitant.

I nodded, swallowing. “I remember… everything.”

I asked about his.

Ominis’s face shuttered slightly, and my heart ached before he even spoke.

“I do not have… fond memories of my family,” he admitted.

His fingers twisted around his wine glass, tension tightening in his shoulders.

“My father believed my blindness was a punishment. My mother—she tried to care, but fear ruled her more than love. And my brothers—” he laughed bitterly, “—they are Gaunts through and through. Cruel, arrogant, obsessed with our bloodline.”

His jaw clenched. “I was nothing but a disgrace to them.”

Silence.

I felt my chest tighten with fury.

I reached across the table, cupping his hand in mine.

“Do you want me to hex your father?” I asked sweetly.

Ominis choked on his drink.

I smiled. “Pink hair would suit him, don’t you think?”

His lips twitched, his expression thawing slightly.

“Tempting,” he admitted.

“How about your brothers too? I’ll make sure it’s permanent.”

Ominis finally laughed—a soft, genuine sound.

My heart swelled at the sight.

And just like that, the heaviness of the past faded, replaced by laughter, stolen glances, and the soft glow of candlelight against our skin.

Naturally, the evening leaned towards something else.

Something more.

His fingers tightened around mine.

His lips brushed against my knuckles.

His voice, a whisper against my skin.

“Come here, my dear.”

The soft glow of moonlight washed over us, illuminating the carved stone figures above—the eternal lovers, frozen in time, watching over us in their sacred space.

And under their gaze, we unraveled.

Our clothes slipped away, layer by layer, until only skin met skin, until there was nothing left between us but the weight of our desire and the sheer, breathless intensity of it all.

Ominis’s fingers traced over my shoulders, down my arms, his touch reverent, desperate, needing.

“It really is easy to slip off,” he murmured, lips brushing against my collarbone.

I shivered, arching into his warmth. “I would remove anything for you.”

His breath hitched, and I felt the moment he lost control.

He laid me down onto the cool, ancient stone, his body pressing against mine in a way that was sinful, overwhelming—starved.

“Ominis.”

His name fell from my lips like a prayer.

I grabbed his face, forcing him to look at me, to listen, to feel.

“I wish you could see yourself through my eyes.” My voice trembled with emotion, my fingers trailing over his sharp jaw, his parted lips, the soft curve of his throat. “You are perfect. Your blindness is not a punishment. Someone like you could never be a punishment.”

He froze, his breath caught, and I could feel the way his heart thundered beneath my palm.

He swallowed. “You… you don’t know what you do to me, my damsel.”

And then—he unraveled.

The temple, once silent, became a witness to our ruin.

My gasps, his groans, the sound of our skin meeting, the way he whispered my name like an incantation.

He kissed me like he was drowning, like I was the only thing anchoring him to this world.

His lips devoured, his hands explored, his body worshipped.

And I let him.

Oh, how I let him.

My fingers buried in his hair, I kissed him back with just as much fire, just as much aching devotion, trailing my lips down his throat, down his chest, down lower—lower, where he needed me most.

He swore, shuddered, a rare curse slipping past his lips, and I smirked, delighted at the sound of him undone.

I had him now.

But he had me too.

Ominis flipped us over with practiced ease, pressing me down beneath him, his weight deliciously intoxicating.

The line between us was thin—too thin.

He almost crossed it.

More than once.

And I—I had to stop him.

Again. And again.

Each time, he would curse, groan against my skin, his body trembling with restraint, his voice hoarse with need.

“Jessa—”

I placed a hand on his chest, grinning playfully, teasing him, calming him with sinful alternatives.

“Not yet, my love,” I whispered. “But I will take care of you.”

His head fell back, his lips parting as he let out a guttural moan, my hands working their magic just as well as my lips had.

He swore he would get me back for this.

I laughed breathlessly, my body flushed and shaking under his touch, my own name a broken cry from his lips.

And we unraveled together, beneath the moonlit dome, beneath Asteria and her lover’s eternal gaze.

Me and Ominis lay there, naked and breathless, our bodies still humming with the echoes of our indulgence. The cool stone beneath us was a sharp contrast to the warmth between us, and yet, I had never felt safer, more at peace than I did now, tangled in his arms.

His lips ghosted over my bare shoulder, pressing soft, lingering kisses, as if memorizing every inch of me in reverence.

I gazed up at the endless stretch of sky, where the stars shimmered above like silver dust, scattered across a midnight canvas.

“Asteria,” I murmured, lost in thought.

Ominis hummed against my skin, his fingers tracing slow circles over my hip. “Hm?”

I smiled softly. “It’s a beautiful name.”

He stilled for a moment, as if waiting for me to say more, his breath warm against my neck.

I hesitated before continuing, my voice barely above a whisper.

“You know, my mother once told me she whispered my name to the stars before I was born… hoping for a daughter.”

Ominis pressed a kiss behind my ear, a quiet acknowledgment, a silent promise that he was listening.

I sighed, nuzzling closer, reveling in the way his body instinctively curled around mine. “Asteria is a beautiful name for a baby girl.”

There was a pause.

Then, I grinned wickedly, turning just enough to tilt my head back and whisper in his ear.

“Should I whisper it now?”

Ominis’s body went rigid.

He exhaled sharply, his grip on my waist tightening as if he was physically restraining himself.

A long silence stretched between us, thick with unspoken tension, before—

“Jessa,” he groaned, his voice dangerously low, and I knew I had won.

I laughed, but it quickly turned into a gasp when he suddenly flipped me onto my back, pinning me beneath him, his hands framing my face.

His expression was unreadable, but I could feel the intensity radiating from him like heat.

“You are dangerous, my dear damsel.” His voice was like velvet, soft, but edged with something deeper.

I traced my fingers along his jaw, whispering playfully. “Oh? Does my mighty knight yield?”

His lips curled into a devilish smirk. “Not a chance.”

And before I could utter another word, he devoured me again, the stars above bearing witness to our slow, indulgent ruin.

Ominis and I reluctantly dressed, though he made sure to steal kisses between every article of clothing I slipped on. A brush of his lips against my shoulder as he fastened my dress. A slow, teasing kiss to my wrist before he helped me with my sleeves. A nip at my earlobe as he tied the ribbon at my back.

“You are making this take twice as long,” I huffed, but I couldn’t hide the smile that played at my lips.

He smirked, his hands settling on my waist. “And yet, you haven’t pushed me away.”

I turned in his arms, adjusting the collar of his cloak before trailing my fingers down his chest. “Because I enjoy watching you struggle with restraint, my dear knight.”

His lips quirked at the title, but his hands tightened ever so slightly. “Careful, my dear damsel. We still have time.”

I laughed softly, reaching up to cup his face. But before I could say another word, his thumb brushed against my lower lip, his gaze sweeping over me like he was memorizing every inch.

“Did I mark you?” he asked, his voice smooth, but with an undertone of curiosity—no, possession.

I bit my lip, watching as his grip on my waist visibly tightened.

“Yes,” I admitted. “But somewhere that can’t be seen.”

I leaned up to his ear, my breath teasing against his skin as I whispered—

“I noticed your fondness for somewhere on my backside.”

His reaction was instant.

A sharp intake of breath. The way his hands twitched at his sides as if resisting the urge to turn me around and confirm it himself. His jaw tightened, and Merlin, the fact that he was holding himself back was making me feel hotter.

He exhaled slowly, regaining his composure as he reached into his pocket. “Then, allow me to give you something you won’t need to hide.”

He took my left wrist and slid something over it—cool metal against my skin.

I glanced down, and my breath caught.

A bracelet—silver and delicate, adorned with deep blue gems that shimmered under the temple’s moonlight. It wasn’t just jewelry—it was something thoughtful, meaningful.

“Ominis…” I whispered, my fingers grazing over it. “This is…”

“I know Sebastian gave you a necklace,” he murmured. “Bloody bastard wanted to give you a ring. I nearly hexed him and Garreth when they suggested getting three rings instead.”

I blinked, stunned. “Three rings?”

Ominis sighed, rubbing his temple. “Yes. Apparently, they were all in agreement that you should wear something from each of us—but no one could agree on what. Sebastian nearly went through with the ring idea, but I put my foot down. No rings. Not yet.”

He smirked slightly. “So, we settled on something else. Something you can wear every day.”

I stared at him, emotion catching in my throat. I traced the cool silver, feeling its weight, the way it fit so perfectly on my wrist.

“I don’t… I don’t think I deserve this,” I said softly, my fingers trembling as I touched the gems.

Ominis’s expression shifted—his teasing demeanor melting into something softer, something reverent.

He took my hand, intertwining our fingers before bringing them to his lips.

“You deserve everything, Jessa. Everything.”

His words settled deep in my chest, warm and steady, like a promise.

I swallowed, unable to find my voice. Instead, I squeezed his hand tightly, willing him to feel what I couldn’t put into words.

His smile was gentle, knowing.

And then, the moment passed.

With a reluctant sigh, Ominis straightened his coat. “Come, my dear. Before I decide we should stay here forever.”

___

The carriage pulled up to the castle gates, the rhythmic sound of hooves against the stone path filling the silence between us. The moment was winding down, but my heart was still racing from everything that had transpired tonight.

Ominis sat beside me, fingers lazily tracing circles over my wrist, over the silver bracelet he had just given me.

I didn’t want this night to end.

Neither did he.

I could feel it in the way he lingered, the way his breath hitched whenever our hands brushed.

“Do we have to get out?” I murmured, tilting my head against his shoulder.

He let out a deep sigh, his fingers curling around mine. “I could tell the driver to take us elsewhere… somewhere far away.”

“Tempting,” I mused, tightening my grip.

But then the carriage came to a stop, and I knew we had no choice but to face reality.

Ominis, ever the gentleman, helped me down first, his grip steady as I stepped onto the cobbled path. But before we could even take another step—

I felt a presence.

Ominis tensed.

We turned, and there he was.

Sebastian.

Waiting.

I knew that look. That carefully controlled expression, the stiff posture.

Oh, he was jealous.

Not openly, no—Sebastian Sallow will not show his jealousy that is against the rule. Instead, he was assessing.

Checking if I was alright.

Checking if Ominis had left any visible marks.

Checking if Ominis had something he didn’t.

The air shifted.

Ominis, smug as ever, simply placed a hand on the small of my back, guiding me forward.

Sebastian’s eyes flickered to the movement. His jaw clenched.

Oh, he was feeling it.

But he said nothing.

Instead, his gaze landed on Ominis, and with that same casual arrogance, he drawled, “Had a good time, Gaunt?”

Ominis didn’t rise to the bait. He simply smirked, adjusting the cuff of his sleeve. “The best.”

Oh dear.

Sebastian inhaled sharply.

He looked at me, gaze flickering over my flushed cheeks, my slightly tousled hair.

Then, his eyes locked onto my wrist.

The bracelet.

The silver band with blue gems—gems that perfectly matched my eyes, glinting under the moonlight.

Sebastian’s expression didn’t change.

But his grip on his wand tightened.

Ominis, feeling the tension, tilted his head slightly, lips curling into a knowing smile. “I do believe I owe you one, Sallow.”

Sebastian exhaled through his nose, giving a short nod. “We’ll see about that.”

Vix and Valor, who had been standing nearby, had the absolute audacity to chuckle.

Vix shook his head, grinning. “You lot are impossible.”

I groaned, burying my face in my hands.

“You act like I barely made it back alive,” I mumbled, peeking between my fingers.

Valor crossed his arms. “You did, but can he say the same?”

I glanced at Ominis, who still looked far too pleased with himself.

I let out a soft sigh, turning to him.

He caught my hand again, this time pressing one last, lingering kiss to my knuckles.

“Thank you for tonight, my dear,” he murmured, voice low, reverent. “It was… unforgettable.”

My heart fluttered.

I squeezed his hand. “It truly was.”

Sebastian cleared his throat.

Ominis, amused, turned on his heel and strode off toward the Slytherin dorms, his departure far too triumphant.

I turned to Sebastian, expecting a comment.

Instead, he simply gave me a look.

A look that promised something.

Something dangerous.

Something that said— He is not done yet.

I barely stepped into the Ravenclaw dormitory when I was ambushed.

Samantha, Poppy, and Natty were all waiting.

Poppy grabbed my wrist, eyes immediately catching on the new silver bracelet.

“OH!” she gasped. “LOOK AT THIS!”

Natty gasped too, leaning in. “Wait—Ominis gave this to you, didn’t he?”

Samantha clutched her chest dramatically. “A bracelet?!” she gushed. “After a necklace?! What are they trying to do—accessorize you to death?!”

I rolled my eyes, biting back a laugh. “You lot are impossible.”

Samantha smirked. **“Impossible, but correct. Now sit down, spill everything—and don’t you dare leave out a single detail!”

I sighed, already knowing I had no escape.

I sat on my bed, the girls immediately crowding in. I didn’t tell them about the more… heated moments.

Those were for Ominis and me alone.

But I did tell them about the breathtaking library, the hidden temple under the stars, how we dined under the moonlit dome where Asteria and her lover were rumored to meet.

They hung onto every word.

Poppy squealed, hugging her pillow. “That sounds like something straight out of a fairytale!”

Natty sighed dreamily. “So romantic,” she murmured.

Samantha, who had been unusually quiet, suddenly narrowed her eyes.

“And your dress?”

I blinked. “What about my dress?”

“Did it stay on the whole time?”

The way she phrased that nearly made me choke on air.

Poppy and Natty gasped, covering their mouths.

I smacked Samantha’s arm. “Samantha Dale!”

She just grinned like a cat who got the cream. “That’s all the answer I need.”

“I swear on my magic—”

“Oh, I believe you,” she said, smirking. “But I also believe that dress didn’t make it through the night intact.”

Poppy gasped again. “Oh! Did he ruin it?!”

I looked away. ”…He may have.”

The room exploded.

Samantha threw herself backward onto my bed, cackling. “ANOTHER ONE?!”

Natty covered her face, giggling. “First the white lace, now this?”

Poppy was in absolute awe. “I think I need to sit down.”

I buried my face in my hands. “You are sitting down.”

“I NEED TO SIT FURTHER.”

I groaned. “Why do I tell you anything?”

Samantha patted my shoulder. “Because you love us, and we make your love life even more entertaining than it already is.”

They weren’t wrong.

Still, I refused to give them the real details.

Some things were meant to be just for us.

But the teasing didn’t stop.

Samantha grinned, wagging her eyebrows. “So… Garreth’s tomorrow, huh?”

I froze.

The girls leaned in.

Oh, Merlin.

Tomorrow was Garreth’s turn.

Technically, I’d already had two dates with him.

One disguised as a dinner, and the other—the mooncalf dance.

But this… this was an actual, undeniable, Hogwarts date.

Poppy tilted her head. “You and Garreth have had sneaky little dates before… but I’m curious—what does a ‘real’ Garreth Weasley date look like?”

Natty giggled. “I have a feeling it will involve breaking at least three school rules.”

Samantha sighed, placing a dramatic hand on her heart. “I hope it involves you wearing that red dress I found for you.”

I squinted at her. “What red dress?”

She smirked.

Oh, Merlin.

I was so in danger.
___

The morning started with a menace.

Samantha, thrilled with herself, had selected my uniform for me. She’d pinned my hair up just right—to show off my necklace. She’d picked a coat just fitted enough to let my bracelet peek through.

I stared at myself in the mirror. “You little menace.”

Samantha grinned proudly. “Oh, please. If I let you dress yourself, you’d hide them, and that would be a crime.”

I sighed. “They’re already seeing them, Sam.”

She gasped. “And we must make sure they see them even more!”

I rolled my eyes but let her win this one.

The Grand Hall: Where Menaces Gather

The moment we arrived at the Ravenclaw table, I immediately noticed Garreth was nowhere to be found.

Sebastian and Ominis, however, were very present.

And they noticed.

Sebastian’s eyes immediately locked onto my neck. His lips curled into a smirk.

Ominis, despite being blind, ran his fingers lightly over my wrist, a knowing smile forming on his lips.

“You’re wearing them,” he murmured.

I bit back a smile. “Of course, I am.”

Sebastian chuckled, leaning in. “They look beautiful on you, love.”

Ominis nodded. “I thought the bracelet might suit you.”

Sebastian snorted. “She’s showing it off, Gaunt. You should be pleased.”

I kicked him under the table. “It’s because Samantha forced me.”

Samantha giggled behind her hand.

Sebastian and Ominis exchanged amused glances before sweetly serving me breakfast, as if nothing at all had changed.

Except something had.

And, unfortunately, Jace was too damn smart for his own good.

He narrowed his eyes as he looked between me and my two suitors.

“Your demeanors changed.”

I froze mid-bite. “What?”

**“You three. You’re still following the ‘rules.’ Still… proper.”**He tilted his head. “But something’s different. Something changed between you three.”

I stared at him.

Samantha nearly choked on her pumpkin juice.

Poppy and Natty giggled.

Everett, Amit, and Leander looked utterly confused.

Leander squinted. “What does that even mean?”

“It means,” Jace said, “that something happened. And they’re all pretending it didn’t.”

Sebastian took a slow sip of his tea. “You’re imagining things, Valancaire.”

Ominis was too composed, which was dangerous. “Perhaps you’ve had too much sleep, Jace.”

I kicked Jace’s shin under the table. “Mind your business, twin.”

Jace winced but smirked. “Oh, but this is my business.”

Sebastian smirked. “You’re quite the menace, aren’t you?”

“I have to be. I have a sister who needs watching.”

I groaned. “I regret my life choices.”

The girls giggled into their hands.

The boys looked even more confused.

Amit sighed. “I feel like everyone here is in on a secret except us.”

Everett nodded. “Agreed. It’s unsettling.”

Jace grinned. “You don’t want to know, mate.”

Despite the usual chaos, breakfast’s true entertainment had nothing to do with me.

No—the real show was Samantha.

More specifically, Samantha still being furious at Leander over that girl who waved at him during Quidditch practice.

She wasn’t saying she was furious.

But the way she ‘accidentally’ kept adding salt instead of sugar to his porridge said otherwise.

Leander, completely oblivious, kept grimacing with every bite.

Everett, watching, finally sighed. “Mate, stop eating. It’s been sabotaged.”

Leander blinked. “What? No, it’s just… particularly salty today.”

Samantha batted her lashes. “Oh? You don’t like it?”

Leander frowned. “It’s just—” He froze. His eyes narrowed.

Samantha gave him a sweet, innocent smile.

Leander stared. “What did I do?”

“Oh, nothing at all,” Samantha said lightly.

The entire table grimaced.

“Leander’s dead.” Amit whispered.

Poppy snorted. “We should probably say our goodbyes now.”

Sebastian leaned over to me. “I’m actually afraid of Samantha.”

Ominis nodded. “She’s terrifying.”

Garreth chose the worst possible moment to arrive.

He sat down, looking far too smug. “Did I miss anything?”

Samantha gave Leander one last saccharine smile.

“Oh, nothing at all.”

Leander, desperate to deflect from Samantha’s quiet wrath, did what every terrified man does—drag someone else into the fire.

And so, in his infinite Gryffindor stupidity, he turned to Sebastian and said—the worst sentence of his life.

“Oh hey, Sebastian, who was that blonde woman you were talking to yesterday after practice? You know, the Hufflepuff?”

Sebastian choked violently on his tea. “WHAT? WHO?”

The entire table froze.

Jace, seeing his life flash before his eyes, simply leaned back and muttered, “Oh, the vein is here. Good luck, mate.”

I slowly turned to Sebastian.

A vein throbbed at my forehead.

Sebastian looked pale. Terrified.

I smiled. Sweetly. Too sweetly.

“Who is she, Bas?” I asked, my voice dripping with poison disguised as honey.

Sebastian panicked. “I—what—nothing—who—?!”

I tilted my head.

“I thought you liked brunettes?” I murmured, voice dangerously soft. “But it turns out you like blondes?”

The entire table flinched.

Vix and Valor, who had been about to tell me something, took one look at the vein and turned around.

“Good luck, mate,” they both said as they abandoned Sebastian to his fate.

Ominis, the traitor, remained completely silent, sipping his tea like he was blind, deaf, and dead.

Sebastian, who did not even remember speaking to a blonde Hufflepuff, struggled to find an answer.

“Love, I—”

Amit, trying to diffuse the situation, said the dumbest thing possible.

“Oh! Maybe she was just asking about Quidditch practice?”

Poppy, genuinely trying to help, added, “Yeah! I mean, I would talk to Sebastian too if I needed help with flying.”

Everett, a true agent of chaos, grinned. “You think she was asking about Quidditch? I dunno… she was playing with her hair a lot—”

“Oh? Was she?” I asked, smiling wider.

Sebastian glared at Everett like he wanted to commit a murder. “Everett. Shut up.”

Amit, panicking, said, “Or maybe she was just being polite!”

Natty tried to help. “Yes, Hufflepuffs are naturally friendly.”

“Friendly, huh?” I said sweetly, my hand gripping my fork a little too tight.

Sebastian was dying.

Everett added fuel to the fire. “Yeah, but very friendly, mate—”

Sebastian nearly threw his tea at him.

Sebastian, **realizing he was about to be hexed, did the only thing he could.

He redirected.

“Leander,” Sebastian said loudly.

Leander froze. “Huh?”

Sebastian grinned. “Didn’t you promise that girl you’d help her with Herbology?”

Leander’s face drained of all color.

Samantha stiffened.

“Oh. Really?” she said, voice sharp as a dagger.

Leander tried to run.

Samantha grabbed his sleeve.

“No, no, love,” she said sweetly. “Tell me more about this Herbology lesson?”

Leander started praying to Merlin.

Amit, who just wanted peace, sighed. “This has gone terribly.”

Everett, watching the destruction unfold, whispered, “This is amazing.”

Jace, who had originally planned to intervene, decided against it. He simply continued eating, watching the carnage like it was live entertainment.

Ominis, still silent, lifted his tea. “I have nothing to say except that this is entirely deserved.”

Sebastian glared at him. “You’re my best mate. Help me.”

Ominis took another sip. “No.”

Leander, realizing Sebastian had thrown him under the bus, yelled, “Bastard! You did this to me!”

Sebastian grinned, despite still being under suspicion himself.

Everett, leaning in, added, “You’re both dead.

Samantha, stirring salt into Leander’s porridge, said, “Oh, you’ll wish you were.”

Sebastian, realizing I was still staring at him, cautiously picked up his salted tea.

“Drink it, Bas.” I whispered, smiling.

Sebastian sighed. “Bloody hell.” He took a sip, grimacing.

Leander, resigned to his fate, took a spoonful of his horrible porridge.

Amit, watching the suffering, sighed. “Truly, no one wins here.”

Everett grinned. “Wrong. We do.”

Jace, calmly finishing his meal, added, “This was a great breakfast. I should wake up early more often.”

Final Verdict:

•Leander is dead.

•Sebastian is suffering.

•The girls are victorious.

•Ominis is enjoying the peace.

•Everett is entertained.

•Jace has no regrets.

And Garreth?

Nowhere to be found. The smartest one of them all.
____

The chaos from breakfast had not settled.

Samantha and I were still seething.

Sebastian was trying to win me back with soft smiles and playful nudges. I ignored him. The vein on my forehead throbbed violently.

I could feel him sweating.

Ominis, meanwhile, was calm as ever, sipping his tea. I swore I saw the corner of his mouth twitch in amusement.

Jace, who valued his life, stood up and quickly grabbed his books.

“Well. This is why I’m single. Goodbye, friends. And goodbye… the Vein.”

And then—he ran.

Coward.

As Jace escaped, the very girl Leander had been talking to walked past the table.

She smiled sweetly at Leander.

“Hi, Leander,” she said, before heading to another table.

Silence.

Absolute silence.

I slowly turned my head to Samantha.

Samantha, poor, poor Samantha— looked like she was about to burst into tears.

Leander must have sensed his imminent death because he suddenly—without warning—said the most shocking thing.

“Samantha. Be my girlfriend.”

The entire table froze.

WHAT?!

Even Sebastian, who was still in trouble, blinked in surprise.

I grabbed my goblet and choked on my drink.

Amit dropped his fork.

Everett nearly fell off his seat.

Ominis, who was never surprised by anything, actually put his tea down.

Poppy gasped.

Natty blinked rapidly.

And Samantha?

Samantha looked like she had been hit by a bludger.

Samantha’s jaw dropped. “What?”

Leander, for once in his life, looked determined. “Be my girlfriend.”

Samantha stared.

We all stared.

Even the girl from before paused at her table, clearly intrigued by the absolute spectacle.

“Why—why now?! Why would you ask me now?!” Samantha demanded, still angry, still fuming, but now also completely flustered.

Leander shrugged. “Because I want you. And because if I don’t, you’ll probably kill me.”

Samantha’s face was red—partly from anger, partly from embarrassment.

She glared at him.

Leander stared back.

Everyone held their breath.

And then—

“Fine!” Samantha yelled, crossing her arms. “I’ll be your girlfriend!”

The entire table ERUPTED.

Natty gasped dramatically. “Oh my Merlin!”

Poppy clapped excitedly.

Everett leaned back and whistled. “Damn, mate. That was bold.”

Sebastian, grinning, nudged Ominis. “I should have tried that with Jessa.”

Ominis, smirking, responded dryly. “Yes, because asking during an argument has clearly proven to be an effective method.”

Amit was still frozen in shock.

Jace, who had come back for his book, stopped mid-step and just said, “Wait. WHAT?!”

And Samantha?

Samantha, despite her anger, despite her fury, despite everything—

Was smiling.

Absolutely smittenly angry.

And just like that—

Samantha Dale and Leander Prewett were now officially dating.
___

I was so happy for Samantha and Leander.

“Finally, Sam! Go use that manual!” I cheered, which made Samantha blush furiously while the girls cackled in delight.

Our friends congratulated them and Leander basked in his near-death survival.

“Mate, you actually saved yourself. This is history in the making,” Everett said, patting him on the back like he had survived a war.

“By the skin of my teeth,” Leander muttered. “I think I saw my life flash before my eyes.”

Natty smirked. “Be grateful she said yes. Otherwise, we would have buried you by now.”

While everyone was celebrating, Sebastian, however, was still fighting for his life.

“Ominis, help me here, I beg you,” he said, nudging the blonde Slytherin beside him.

Ominis, who had been silently amused by the entire ordeal, sighed dramatically before finally taking pity on him.

“My dear,” Ominis turned to me, voice smooth, “that man is utterly obsessed with you. He will not desire any other woman.”

I was about to let it go. I really was.

But then—

I blurted out something absolutely ridiculous.

“Maybe you want the blonde too, Ominis.”

The table went DEAD silent.

Ominis’ brows furrowed. “What?”

I was still fuming. Still irrational. Still fueled by the remnants of my Sebastian-jealousy rage.

So I turned my head, narrowed my eyes, and delivered the next blow.

“Where is Garreth?” I asked sweetly. “Maybe he’s with her too?”

GARRETH WEASLEY—WHO WAS NOWHERE TO BE FOUND—SUDDENLY BECAME A MAN IN DANGER.

Ominis was caught off guard.

“My dear, we just had a date last night—HOW?!”

Sebastian, who was relieved the wrath had shifted, started choking on his pumpkin juice in laughter.

Amit, who had been quietly eating, literally put his hands together in prayer.

Natty gasped.

Everett whispered, “Holy hell.”

Poppy, who had been the only one smart enough to realize what was happening, sighed deeply and said:

“It’s… her time of the month. Must be near. This happens.”

Jace, from another table, who had been minding his own business (for once), casually leaned over and said loud enough for everyone to hear—

“Oh yeah. A little fact for the suitors—store spicy things during these times!”

Sebastian lost it.

Ominis looked BETRAYED.

Everett clapped his hands in understanding. “That explains it. I live with sisters. It’s a warzone every month.”

Leander, who was still recovering from his near-death confession, looked at Samantha in horror. “You do this too?!”

Samantha rolled her eyes. “No, because I have self-control, unlike some people.” She turned to me. “Jessa, what do you want?”

And then, without missing a beat, I said—

“I want something spicy.”

The Aftermath: Absolute Panic

“GET HER SOMETHING SPICY—NOW!”

Poppy frantically grabbed Sebastian’s plate and shoved it toward me.

“This has pepper on it! Eat this first!”

Sebastian was trying to contain his laughter but still nudged his plate closer to me. “See? I’m a good boyfriend.”

Ominis shook his head. “I am not feeding into this madness.”

“Well, maybe the blonde will,” I muttered, still not over it.

“STOP MENTIONING THE BLONDE!” Ominis snapped.

Sebastian, wheezing, grabbed a roll and dunked it into the spicy stew before handing it to me. “Here, love. Take it before you kill us all.”

Jace, who had wisely started eating at a different table, just sighed and muttered, “You lot are impossible.”

Sebastian looked at Valor and Vix like a condemned man at the gallows.

“Can we break the rules just this once? I feel like our life is in danger here.”

Ominis, still pale but now looking genuinely distressed, sighed dramatically.

“I am dying.”

Valor, watching The Vein™ on my forehead with trained expertise, crossed his arms.

“Fine. Only because of the vein.”

And that was all the permission they needed.

The Attack: The Whispers of Doom

Sebastian was first. His voice was velvet, wicked, and entirely too smug.

His lips brushed the shell of my ear as he whispered something so devastatingly sinful that I nearly choked on my own breath.

Ominis followed, slow and deliberate, his breath warm as he murmured something equally ruinous, the kind of thing that made my spine shiver in betrayal.

I grabbed the table for support.

I swallowed, barely recovering, and snapped at them.

“I swear to Merlin, if I see either of you even glance at another woman—AND WARN GARRETH TOO—”

Sebastian, far too pleased with himself, smirked. “And you say I was the jealous one.”

Ominis, for once, wasn’t even protesting. He was enjoying this.

And just when I thought the chaos had reached its peak—

Leander, who had clearly survived his near-death experience with Samantha and gained a taste for recklessness, decided to stir the pot.

“Well,” he said casually, “Amit was talking to that red-haired Gryffindor girl earlier, and Everette? Oh yeah, he was with that Slytherin girl. No harm, right? Just friendly guys.”

The air shifted.

Natty froze.

Poppy turned slowly, owlishly blinking at Everette, who looked like he wanted to evaporate.

Amit stared at Leander, betrayal clear in his eyes.

“Mate. Why?” Amit whispered.

Samantha grinned, loving every second of the incoming bloodshed.

And then it exploded.

“AMIT, WHO IS SHE?!” Natty asked, voice dangerously sweet.

“Everette, I swear if you even THINK about playing the field—” Poppy huffed, arms crossed.

“Leander, WHAT IS WRONG WITH YOU?!” Amit yelped, dodging a smack to the shoulder.

And just like that, the tables had turned.

Sebastian leaned back, sipping his tea like a victorious general watching his enemies destroy themselves.

Ominis, now fully recovered, smirked as he casually trailed his fingers along my wrist.

“They’ll be busy for a while,” Ominis murmured, voice dipped in seduction.

Sebastian tilted his head towards me, eyes dark with promise.

“You were saying, love?”

And just like that, they started their whispered seduction again—taking full advantage of the absolute disaster unfolding at the table.

Garreth arrived just as the battlefield was still smoking from the wreckage of breakfast. He took one look at the varying levels of horror, amusement, and mortal fear across the table and grinned like an absolute menace.

“Oh hey, what’s up, sweets? Excited for our date?”

Sebastian, who had barely recovered from his near-death experience, shot him a look.

“Lucky you, Weasley. You missed The Vein.”

Garreth blinked. “The what?”

I took a sip of my tea, entirely too composed for someone who had nearly hexed two of her suitors five minutes ago.

“Oh, nothing much,” I said sweetly. “Samantha and Leander are now officially dating.”

Garreth raised a brow. “Well, it’s about time. Wait—why does that have anything to do with—”

I tilted my head, expression unreadable. “And apparently, Ominis and Sebastian like blondes.”

Silence.

A hush fell over the table. Sebastian and Ominis looked absolutely horrified.

“The vein came back.”

Sebastian, pale but still unbelievably cocky, leaned in and muttered under his breath, just for me to hear.

“If you don’t stop right now, I’ll show everyone here exactly how much I like brunettes with blue, infuriating eyes—”

His voice dipped lower.

”—and I’ll be expelled.”

Ominis, calm as ever, simply hummed.

“You don’t want a scandal here, dear.”

I shivered. I knew they were telling the truth.

But that didn’t mean I was letting them off easy.

Garreth, still absolutely lost, looked around in genuine confusion.

“WHAT?” he asked. “What happened while I was gone? And why do Natty and Poppy look like they’re about to end Amit and Everette?”

Amit, clearly praying to every higher being in existence, turned to Garreth with wide, panicked eyes.

“RUN. SAVE YOURSELF.”

Everette, backed into a corner by Poppy’s judgmental glare, only groaned.

“I thought we were friends, Leander,” he muttered.

Leander, the one who started the disaster, was grinning like an absolute madman at the chaos he had caused.

Samantha, smug and victorious, was busy tracing patterns on Leander’s arm, looking like she had just won a battle and claimed him as her war prize.

Garreth stared at the disaster, then back at me.

“So…this is what happens when I leave for ONE morning?”

Sebastian, now recovering, simply smirked.

“Oh, Weasley. You have no idea.”

The morning that nearly ended in multiple homicides (and possibly my suitors’ premature funerals) was finally steered into safer waters.

“Alright, alright, let’s focus,” I said, rubbing my temples. “Anne’s Welcome Party. She’ll be here tomorrow, so we should start preparing.”

The table—still a battlefield of bruised egos, wounded pride, and smirking triumphs—immediately shifted gears.

Poppy, ever the bright ray of sunshine, clapped her hands together.

“Oh! I actually asked Professor Black if we could use the Great Hall—”

Amit sighed. “Let me guess. He said no.”

“Of course he did,” Poppy huffed, crossing her arms. “Miserable old prune.”

Everette, who had finally stopped looking like he was being hexed in real-time, looked over. “So, where are we hosting it, then?”

Poppy beamed, practically bouncing in her seat.

“Professor Ronan agreed to let us use the Beasts Classroom and the surrounding area!”

A Party in the Beasts Classroom? Oh, This Will Be Chaotic

Sebastian, who had been quietly recovering from the earlier ‘Vein Incident,’ finally perked up.

“Wait. You mean we get to throw a party… surrounded by magical creatures?”

Natty, always the responsible one, nodded. “Yes. So, we must be careful not to startle them—”

Leander, being Leander, smirked. “Oh, don’t worry, Natty. I’ll be sure to let the Hippogriffs know Sebastian’s coming.”

Sebastian, deadpan, leaned forward. “If I get kicked in the face by a Hippogriff, I am hexing you first, Prewett.”

“If you get kicked in the face by a Hippogriff, I am framing Prewett,” Garreth added cheerfully.

Ominis sighed heavily, clearly already exhausted. “Only you lot could turn a party planning session into a life-or-death situation.”

“Alright!” I cut in before another battle broke out. “Let’s assign tasks before this turns into another morning of bloodshed.”

Samantha grinned. “Well, I know one thing—I am in charge of making Anne’s outfit perfect for her grand return.”

Leander, grinning, nudged her. “By perfect, you mean ‘I will make sure she turns heads and causes absolute chaos’?”

Samantha smirked. “Obviously.”

“Drinks?” Everette offered.

“You’re not getting alcohol, Everett,” Amit sighed.

“I didn’t say that!”

“Yes, you did.”

“Fine, fine, I’ll get the Butterbeer and Pumpkin Juice.”

“I’ll help with decorations,” Poppy said eagerly. “We can use fairy lights! And enchanted streamers!”

Sebastian grinned, already scheming. “And confetti that explodes over whoever Anne hugs first.”

Ominis, deeply unimpressed. “Yes, let’s make our newly returned, previously sickly Anne get attacked by confetti. Brilliant idea, Sallow.”

“Oh come on, Ominis, just a little fun!”

“I will be standing precisely ten feet away from all of you.”

Garreth, as always, was already thinking about food.

“I’ll handle the feast. I’ll get snacks, pastries, sweets—all of it.”

“Yes, because your stomach is totally trustworthy when it comes to handling food preparation,” Amit muttered.

“I heard that, Amit.”

With **everyone assigned a task, the mood at the table finally became lighter, fun, and focused on something that wouldn’t lead to another jealousy war.

The only people still suffering?

Sebastian and Ominis, who were watching me with a kind of reverent caution, still very aware that I had threatened their lives this morning.

Garreth, grinning like an idiot, nudged me. “Sooo… about our date later—”

Ominis sighed. “Merlin save us.”

Sebastian, exasperated. “Weasley, I swear—”

And just like that, the chaos was only just beginning again.
___

The classroom was filled with the usual scratching of quills, the occasional muttering of translations, and the soft rustling of parchment.

I sat, as always, between Sebastian and Ominis, scribbling runic translations when I noticed something out of the corner of my eye.

Ominis, who had been idly doodling in the margins of his notes, had written something.

“Asteria Valancaire.”

I blinked.

I blushed.

He remembered.

He remembered what I had said at the temple.

Before I could react, Sebastian saw it too.

His eyes narrowed.

He leaned in, voice low and sharp.

“Who is Asteria Valancaire? Your relative?”

Ominis did not look up.

I hesitated. ”…No.”

Sebastian tilted his head. “Then who the hell is she?”

I inhaled slowly, choosing my words very carefully.

“Asteria is…a name I like.”

Sebastian squinted at me.

“For what?”

I swallowed.

And then, knowing I had no way out, I whispered:

“For my hypothetical baby?”

Sebastian froze.

And then, dangerously quiet, he muttered:

“What?”

I panicked.

I turned to him, eyes wide, whispering in my sweetest, most placating voice:

“You…don’t like the name Asteria, Bas?”

Ominis, sensing the shift, exhaled softly. “Sebastian.”

Sebastian ignored him. “Asteria, huh?” His fingers traced slow patterns on my wrist. “And tell me, love—who’s meant to be Asteria’s father?”

Ominis’ grip on his quill tightened.

Sebastian’s hand slowly slid up my arm, his lips brushing against my ear. “If you’d like, we can start working on Asteria tonight—”

I slammed my elbow into his ribs.

“Don’t break the rules.”

Sebastian hissed in pain.

Ominis chuckled.

But neither of them stopped looking at me.

I was not safe.
___

“Sweets, I’ll get you from the Ravenclaw Tower, okay?”

Garreth’s voice was filled with excitement, his grin practically radiating through the castle halls.

I nodded, already sensing the two dark forces beside me staring.

I turned.

Sebastian and Ominis were not over Asteria.

But for now, they had chosen a new target.

Me.

Their low, warning voices came in unison:

“Do not cross the line.”

My heart skipped a beat.

I placed a quick, distracting kiss on their cheeks, whispering, “Behave, you two.”

And then, before they could pull me into more dangerous whispers, Samantha dragged me away.

The moment we entered the Ravenclaw dormitory, Samantha went to work.

She rummaged through a trunk, throwing outfits at me until she found the perfect one.

Something comfortable. Something casual.

But—Merlin help me—something with a secret.

I froze as she pulled out a sinful red lace set and held it up proudly.

“Sam!”

She grinned. “Oh, come on. Garreth likes red.”

I narrowed my eyes. “Or Leander likes red?”

Samantha huffed dramatically, placing a hand over her heart.

“That is why my wardrobe is full of them, darling.”

I groaned. “You’re just like my mother.”

Samantha beamed.

“Exactly. And now, let’s fix your makeup.”

I sighed in defeat.

She tilted my chin up, eyeing my face critically.

“Oh, and Jessa?”

She reached over, lightly brushing her fingers over my necklace and bracelet.

“Wear those. Again.”

I descended the Ravenclaw staircase, thoroughly destroyed by Samantha’s enthusiasm.

My hair was styled perfectly, my makeup subtle but calculated.

The red lace underneath my dress? A sinful secret.

And then, I saw him.

Garreth Weasley.

Merlin.

Casual, effortless, charming.

His white button-up shirt was just slightly undone at the collar, sleeves rolled up to expose his forearms. His dark trousers fit him just right, and his signature Gryffindor scarf was loosely draped around his neck, completing the relaxed, roguish look.

He grinned the moment he saw me.

“You’re beautiful in everything, sweets.”

I smiled, a little breathless.

Garreth offered his arm, and I took it.

“Come on, let me show you a secret I just discovered, sweets.”

We wandered through the dimly lit castle corridors, Garreth leading me somewhere unknown.

His grip was steady but playful, his fingers grazing mine as we walked.

“Gar, where are we going?”

He smirked, glancing around as if making sure no one was watching.

“Sweets, this is the One-Eyed Witch Passage.”

I blinked, tilting my head in curiosity.

“One-Eyed Witch Passage?”

He grinned, stopping us in front of an old, worn statue of a haggard-looking witch, her stone eye forever missing.

“A secret tunnel,” he whispered conspiratorially, “that leads straight to Honeydukes’ cellar.”

My eyes widened.

“Garreth Weasley, are you telling me we’re about to break into Honeydukes?”

He gasped, placing a dramatic hand over his chest.

“I would never break into Honeydukes!”

A beat.

Then he smirked.

“I just… occasionally borrow their passage.”

I laughed. “Gar.”

He grinned wickedly, pressing his wand to the statue.

With a whispered incantation, the statue shifted, revealing a narrow, dark passage leading downward.

Garreth turned to me, his eyes glinting with mischief.

“Come on, sweets. Trust me.”

His hand stretched toward me.

The warmth of it. The promise of adventure.

I took it.

And we disappeared into the dark.
__

The passage was dark and narrow, but Garreth’s grip was firm and sure.

I followed him through twisting tunnels, my heart pounding with anticipation.

“Gar, where exactly are we going?”

He turned back, his face barely visible in the dim light, but I could hear the grin in his voice.

“You’ll see, sweets. Almost there.”

Then, suddenly—

The tunnel widened.

A soft glow bathed the walls, flickering like starlight.

And then, I stepped into wonder.

A cavern unlike anything I had ever seen.

Glowing crystals of every color bloomed from the walls like enchanted flowers, their light reflecting in a way that made the entire cave look like a sky full of stars.

The ground shimmered with tiny flecks of silver and gold, scattered like celestial dust.

A soft hum of magic pulsed in the air—gentle, warm, familiar.

My breath caught.

“Garreth…”

I turned to him, and he was watching me.

Not the cavern. Me.

His freckles, lit up by the glow, his red hair a halo of fire against the cool light.

He smiled.

“Told you it was a secret worth sharing.”

I turned in slow circles, taking in every detail.

At the center of the cavern, a soft blanket was laid out, along with a bottle of wine and chocolates.

My favorite chocolates.

My heart clenched.

“You remembered.”

Garreth rubbed the back of his neck, suddenly sheepish.

“Of course, sweets. It’s you. How could I forget?”

We sat together, sipping rich, spiced wine, the warmth of it settling deep in my chest.

Garreth unwrapped a chocolate and held it to my lips.

I raised an eyebrow. “Feeding me now?”

“Mhm. Perks of dating me.”

I rolled my eyes but bit into it anyway.

Dark chocolate, smooth, rich, melting on my tongue.

Garreth watched, looking far too pleased with himself.

“Good?”

I swallowed, smiling.

“Perfect.”

He grinned, and I knew.

This wasn’t just a date.

This was Garreth Weasley, showing me a piece of his heart.

The warm glow of the crystals reflected in Garreth’s eyes, flickering like firelight as we talked, sipping wine and indulging in chocolates.

I had never seen him this soft, this steady—his usual mischievous spark still there, but tempered into something intentional.

“I loved your gift, sweets.”

His voice was gentle, but there was an undercurrent of something deeper.

“The potions compilation?”

He nodded, running a hand through his red hair as he leaned closer.

“I already tried some. You really are brilliant, you know?”

His fingers traced over the rim of his wine glass, but his eyes?

They never left me.

I took another sip of wine, trying to hide my smile.

“Which ones?”

“The whimsical ones first, of course.”

He grinned, pulling a vial from his pocket.

“Here, watch this.”

He uncorked the bottle and poured a single drop onto his palm—it shimmered and swirled, morphing into a tiny, glowing butterfly before vanishing into the air.

I gasped, enchanted.

“You actually made it work?”

Garreth smirked, proud.

“Of course, sweets. You inspire me.”

The teasing softened.

The laughter faded into something quieter, heavier.

Garreth set his wine down and turned to me, reaching for my hand, thumb tracing slow circles over my skin.

“You know, I might not be as aggressive as your Slytherin suitors.”

I looked at him, breath catching.

His voice was lower now, steady, sure.

“But I am serious about you, sweets.”

His grip tightened, as if to make sure I was listening.

“I don’t care about them. I only care about you.”

The cavern felt smaller, warmer.

The air thick with something unsaid.

I swallowed, heart pounding.

“Garreth…”

He lifted my hand, brushing his lips against my knuckles—a slow, lingering kiss that sent a shiver down my spine.

His green eyes burned into mine, his usual playfulness giving way to something deeper.

“Tell me you know that.”

I did.

I felt it—in the way he looked at me, the way he spoke my name, the way he had remembered everything.

The potions. The chocolates. The softest details.

I cupped his cheek, running my thumb over his freckles.

And then I kissed him.

Slow. Deep. Certain.

A promise unspoken, but understood.

The kiss deepened, slow at first—tantalizing, teasing, testing the boundaries between us. Garreth’s lips moved with a deliberation that sent shivers across my skin, as though he were savoring every moment, every reaction. But then his hands tightened at my waist, and the shift was unmistakable.

Possessive. Hungry.

His grip pulled me flush against him, our bodies pressed so intimately that every breath, every heartbeat, became a shared rhythm. I whimpered against his lips, and his hands flexed, gripping my hips tighter.

I felt him smirk against my mouth before he trailed hot, open-mouthed kisses down my jaw, along the sensitive column of my throat. His breath was hot against my skin, his voice a raw murmur.

“I’m serious when I said I can completely erase my name for yours.”

His teeth grazed my pulse point, a deliberate tease that sent heat pooling low in my stomach.

“I’m serious when I said you will be mine.”

I gasped, my fingers twisting into his robes. He liked that.

No—he loved it.

His mouth curved into a wicked grin as he sucked at my skin, marking me, his hands roaming lower, fingers ghosting along my spine. I felt lightheaded, trapped between wanting more and knowing we were dangerously close to unraveling.

His lips brushed against my ear, voice low, strained, wrecked with restraint.

“Tell me to stop, sweets, and I’ll stop.”

The warmth of his breath sent another shiver through me.

“Don’t worry, I’ve already been thoroughly warned that there’s a line I shouldn’t cross.”

His fingers traced over my ribs, skimming under my blouse, teasing but not taking. Waiting.

“Stop teasing me, Gar,” I whispered, my breath hitching when his lips moved back to my throat.

He chuckled, dark and full of promise.

“Oh, I don’t. I plan to worship you.”

Slowly, agonizingly slowly, he peeled my clothes away, revealing inch by inch of skin to the cool cavern air.

And then he froze.

His breath caught.

His eyes darkened, taking in the sight of me—the red lingerie that left nothing to the imagination.

I saw the shift in him instantly.

The playfulness? Gone.

The teasing? Gone.

In its place?

Raw, unfiltered desire.

His jaw tightened, his throat bobbing as he swallowed thickly.

“Sweets…” His voice was hoarse, nearly reverent.

I bit my lip, watching the effect I had on him, feeling lightheaded with power.

And then he moved.

Not to remove it. No.

He peeled away everything else but left the lingerie.

As if it were some kind of exquisite torture.

His fingers traced over the delicate lace, his gaze devouring me.

“You’re a menace,” he murmured, his hands settling at my waist, kneading, holding, grounding.

“And yet…” He exhaled sharply, his forehead pressing against mine.

“I am utterly, helplessly yours.”

I had never seen him like this.

I was about to see another version of Garreth Weasley.
]
Garreth laid me down, his body warm and solid against mine, his breath ragged, uneven. His hands moved with a deliberate slowness, as though memorizing every inch of me, tracing delicate paths over my skin.

His lips trailed fire, pressing kisses along my collarbone, nipping gently at the sensitive skin before soothing it with his tongue.

A groan vibrated against my throat, and then I heard him whisper sinful curses, his voice thick with want.

“You drive me mad, sweets.”

I arched into him, my hands threading into his messy curls, tugging just enough to earn a guttural sound from deep in his chest.

He devoured me, his mouth pressing open, lingering kisses lower, lower—until I was whimpering, gasping his name.

He chuckled against my skin, the vibrations sending shivers down my spine.

“That’s it. Say my name like that again.”

I did.

Then suddenly, he pulled away—leaving me breathless, aching.

I opened my eyes to see him standing, watching me.

A slow, mischievous smirk curled his lips, and then—

He started undressing.

Piece by piece, his clothes dropped to the cavern floor.

His movements were unhurried, deliberate.

He was letting me watch.

Teasing me.

His shirt slipped off first, exposing the toned muscles of his stomach and arms, freckled shoulders, the dip of his collarbone.

My breath hitched.

Then, he pushed his trousers down, his strong thighs flexing as he stepped out of them.

The heat in my stomach coiled tighter.

And then, that final piece of clothing disappeared.

I moved without thinking.

I was on my knees before him.

His breath stuttered, his fingers tangling in my hair, tilting my face up to meet his eyes.

He was breathless, wrecked, looking at me like I was something divine.

And when I kissed him there—

He lost himself.

Garreth’s hands roamed as I pressed against him, exploring, learning, until he flipped me, catching me off guard.

Now, I was on top of him.

His hands found my waist, steady, anchoring.

And then, I slowly began to remove the red lace that had driven him to madness.

I heard the sharp intake of breath.

His eyes darkened, his gaze devouring me whole.

Hunger.

Awe.

His fingers tightened against my hips, his lips parted slightly as if in prayer.

And then, he whispered, voice raw, reverent—

“You are… everything.”

Still perched atop him, I took his hands, guiding them to where I ached for his touch. His breath hitched, his pupils blown wide, but he didn’t hesitate.

He indulged me, his fingers tracing paths of fire, his lips parting as he watched me react.

“Like this?” he murmured, pressing his palm against me.

I shivered, my fingernails digging into his chest.

“More.”

And more he gave.

His hands moved like they had always known me, like they had memorized me before even touching me.

His thumbs drew circles, his fingers brushing, pressing, teasing. He took his time, savoring every reaction, every gasp.

I arched, my head falling back, my hands trembling as I held onto him.

I could feel his smirk, his satisfaction, in the way he tilted his head, watching me fall apart beneath him.

“You’re beautiful like this,” he whispered.

But I wanted more.

I wanted to undo him.

To see him wrecked, breathless, pleading for me.

So, I leaned down, my lips grazing his ear, my breath hot against his skin.

“Let me take care of you, Gar.”

And then I did.

Everything I had learned from Sebastian and Ominis, I used against him.

I kissed every inch of his chest, dragging my lips down, down, down.

His hands gripped my waist, his breath coming out in broken curses.

“Sweets—”

“Shh,” I soothed, pressing my lips to his stomach, his hips, his thighs.

He was shaking, his head thrown back, his fingers tangling into my hair.

“Holy—”

He lost himself.

I felt him tense beneath me, his muscles coiling, his breath unsteady.

And then, when I moved back up, pressing my lips to his jaw, his throat, his waiting lips—

He flipped me.

His weight pressed me into the soft cavern floor, his hands pinning mine above my head.

His eyes burned into mine.

“My turn.”

Garreth was deliberate, maddeningly slow as he devoured me.

His hands, his lips, his wicked mouth—

Everywhere.

Worshipping.

Taking his time.

And then—

When he finally went where I needed him the most—

I saw stars.

I clutched his hair, my body arching, trembling, breaking.

He did not stop.

His tongue, his hands, his breath against my skin—

I was helpless beneath him, powerless, completely at his mercy.

He growled against me, his grip tightening, holding me steady, in place, keeping me from escaping.

Not that I wanted to.

He had me.

He had all of me.

“Say my name,” he whispered.

I did.

I screamed it.

And he grinned against my skin.

He moved back up, pressing kisses along my hips, my ribs, my collarbone.

I was wrecked.

And he was watching me, taking in every detail of what he had done to me.

“Sweets,” he murmured, brushing my hair back.

I blinked up at him, still breathless, still undone.

He kissed me softly this time, slow, deep, as if sealing the moment between us.

His forehead rested against mine.

“Mine,” he whispered.

I smiled, pressing a kiss to his cheek.

“Yours.”

We had barely caught our breath before Garreth moved again, his touch slow, reverent— but his eyes burned with hunger.

He shifted me, turned me over so I lay flat against the cavern floor, my cheek resting on the soft fabric of his coat beneath me. The coolness of the glowing crystals scattered across the cavern walls contrasted the fire of his touch.

“You’re unreal,” he murmured, his hands smoothing down my back, tracing the dip of my spine.

His lips followed, pressing slow, open-mouthed kisses, lingering far too long in places that made me whimper beneath him.

His hands gripped my waist, holding me steady, pinned, utterly at his mercy.

His breath ghosted against my skin, sending a delicious shiver down my spine.

And then—

“You know what you do to me, don’t you?”

His voice was strained, rough with need, with restraint.

I shifted beneath him, arching my back slightly, testing him, teasing him—

And he cursed, his hands tightening.

“You are a menace, Sweets,” he growled against my skin.

His hands pressed, kneaded, explored. He whispered sinful praise, telling me how perfect I was, how I was ruining him.

Every word sent heat through me, made me ache for more.

But I could tell.

I could feel it.

He was trying so hard to hold himself back.

He wanted more.

He wanted everything.

He pressed his forehead against my shoulder, his breath ragged.

“Sweets,” he groaned, his fingers digging into my hips.

I turned my head slightly, my voice low, teasing.

“Tell me what you want to do to me, Gar.”

His breath hitched.

“I want to ruin you,” he confessed, his lips brushing against my ear, my neck, my shoulder.

His teeth grazed my skin, his hands gripping me tighter.

“I want to hear you moan my name like I own you. I want to watch you unravel under me. I want to take you apart and put you back together. I want—”

He cut himself off, cursing, his forehead pressing into my back.

I shivered, my breath uneven.

His words were fire, searing me, burning me from the inside out.

I reached back, my fingers tangling into his hair, tugging him closer.

“You don’t have to hold back,” I whispered.

He growled against my skin, his lips kissing, biting, soothing.

His hands slid down, his mouth following, mapping me like he never wanted to forget a single inch of me.

The cavern walls echoed my cries, the sound bouncing back at us, as if this place—

this secret, untouched place that only we knew—

was bearing witness to the devotion, the worship, the unraveling.

Garreth was losing control.

He was trying his hardest, fighting to hold the line.

But I could feel it.

Every time he came close to crossing it, every time he nearly lost himself in me,

I had to guide him back.

“Not yet,” I whispered, kissing him, calming him, teasing him.

His hands shook, his breath was ragged, his voice hoarse.

“You make it impossible.”

I smirked, pressing my lips to his jaw.

“You love it.”

He chuckled, his laughter low, deep, dangerous.

And then he devoured me again.

Garreth’s breath hitched, his grip on my waist tightening as I whispered my confession against his ear.

I could feel it, the way his entire body tensed, how his fingers dug into my skin, how his control was fraying at the edges.

His forehead dropped against my shoulder, and he exhaled a ragged, shaky breath.

“Merlin, Sweets—”

His hands slid down my back, slow, deliberate, like he was memorizing every dip and curve.

His lips traced my spine, his breath hot, uneven, desperate.

He was on the verge of breaking, and I had to pull him back.

So I did what I knew would destroy him further.

I grazed my fingers up his arms, curling them into the soft red strands of his hair, tilting my head so my lips brushed his ear.

“Your Quidditch robes,” I whispered.

His breath hitched again.

I smirked.

“You and Bas—I swear, I nearly dropped to my knees the moment I saw you both in them. You looked… breathtaking. Powerful. A menace.”

His grip on my hips became bruising, his jaw clenched.

“Sweets,” he warned, his voice low, rough.

I ignored it.

“I wanted to kneel,” I continued, slowly, relishing the way his entire body shuddered at my words.

“Right there on the pitch. Right in front of everyone. Wouldn’t that have been a scandal for a noble lady?”

“Holy fuck,” Garreth cursed under his breath, his head dropping against my back.

I could feel his lips curling into a smirk against my skin.

He was losing it.

And I was making it worse.

“You’re going to kill me,” he groaned, his hands sliding down my thighs, gripping, kneading.

“I can’t—” He cut himself off, his breathing uneven, wrecked.

I turned my head slightly, pressing my lips to his jaw, smiling against his skin.

“Oh, you’re going to regret that,” he growled, flipping me onto my back before I could process the shift.

Garreth’s eyes burned as they locked onto mine, a storm of desire and ruin swirling in their depths. His breath was ragged, his body taut, his control shattered.

I had destroyed him.

And I loved it.

His fingers traced fire along my thighs, dragging slowly—too slowly—his lips hovering just above mine, teasing, tormenting, pushing me to the same edge I had driven him to.

“You wanted to kneel?” he murmured, voice dark with amusement and something far more dangerous.

My breath hitched.

His smirk widened.

I barely had a moment to react before he tilted my chin up, forcing my gaze to meet his. His pupils were blown wide, his control fraying even further as he took in the mess I had become beneath him.

His lips brushed my ear.

His voice—wicked, rough, ruined—sent a shiver down my spine.

“If you wanted to be on your knees,” he murmured, “you should have just asked.”

It was getting harder to stop him.

Garreth tried—Merlin, he tried—but his control was slipping, unraveling strand by strand beneath my touch, my voice, my body pressed against his.

His hands—shaking, desperate, needing—dragged up my thighs, trembling with restraint as his lips burned a path down my skin.

I felt it.

The moment he teetered past the point of no return.

The way his grip tightened, his breath came in shaky, wrecked gasps, his entire body trembling as he hovered just above me—just barely holding himself back.

It was too much.

For him.

For me.

For both of us.

And yet—I still giggled when I stopped him.

His groan was wrecked, frustrated, the sound vibrating against my throat as he buried his face in the crook of my neck, exhaling sharply.

“Sweets—” His voice was hoarse, pleading, his entire body rigid with restraint.

He was far gone.

I had to pull him back.

Slowly, deliberately, I pressed my lips against his jaw, trailing soft kisses along his cheek, his temple, the freckled skin along his collarbone. Gentle. Worshipping.

And then—I moved lower.

My hands, light, teasing, skimmed down his chest, slipping past the edge of his robes, tracing the lines of his abdomen, the sharp dip of his hips.

Garreth shuddered beneath my touch, his fingers digging into the fabric beneath us, his control hanging by a thread.

Where warmth and tension coiled.

Where every muscle tensed beneath my fingers.

Where his breath hitched, caught somewhere between a groan and a desperate plea.

I let my palm settle there, slow, teasing, a featherlight touch that sent a violent tremor through his entire body.

His reaction was immediate.

A strangled gasp, his head falling back, his throat exposed, vulnerable, his grip on my hips bruising.

“Oh—fuck.” His voice was wrecked, his restraint crumbling with every second I lingered there, just barely brushing against him.

I leaned in, my lips grazing his ear, whispering, “Breathe, Garreth.”

He let out a sharp exhale, his hands flexing against my waist, his nails pressing just enough to remind himself that I was still here.

That he had to stop.

That he had to breathe.

He shuddered.

His hands slid from my waist, gripping my wrists instead, grounding himself through touch alone.

I felt his body trembling, the war inside him raging—but he was pulling back.

Slowly.

Painfully.

But surely.

And when he finally opened his eyes, they were still dark, still burning—but controlled.

I smiled, pressing one final kiss to his jaw.

“Good.”

Garreth exhaled a breathless laugh, his forehead dropping against mine, his hands tightening over mine.

“You’re going to be the death of me, Sweets.”

His fingers trailed up my arms, cupping my face, his lips brushing against mine, slow, reverent, in utter surrender.

Garreth’s breathing was still uneven, still wrecked, but his hands were steady. Deliberate.

His eyes—darker than I had ever seen them—flickered up to meet mine, and something in my chest clenched at the way he looked at me. Hungry. Worshipful. Possessive in a way that wasn’t sharp, but all-consuming.

“Your turn” he murmured.

Before I could even process what he meant, Garreth took my hands, guiding me gently but firmly until my back met the smooth wall of the cavern, the part untouched by the glow of the crystals. A blank slate for what was about to happen.

Then—he knelt.

I sucked in a breath, the sight alone sending a wave of heat through me.

Garreth never knelt.

Not for Professors. Not for rules. Not for anyone.

But he knelt for me.

And as he pressed hot, open-mouthed kisses against my skin, trailing lower, lower, I realized something:

He would do anything to see me fall apart for him.

His hands gripped my thighs, his freckled fingers spreading across my skin, holding me in place as he pressed his lips to that spot.

Right between my thighs.

Right where I ached for him most.

My body arched instinctively, but his hands—firm, grounding, commanding—held me steady.

I let out a soft, broken sound, fingers reaching for something—anything to hold onto, but there was only him.

And his mouth.

He was slow, unbearably gentle, pressing soft, lingering kisses where I needed more, where I needed everything.

A tease. A torment.

I gasped, trembling, as his hot breath fanned over my skin, my fingers tangling into his hair.

“Garreth—” My voice was shaky, wrecked, desperate.

He hummed against me, sending a shockwave of sensation through my body.

And then—

He gave me what I wanted.

A kiss.

Right there.

Soft. Reverent. Devastating.

A prayer spoken in touch, in heat, in the way he held me like I was something holy.

My head fell back, a gasp escaping my lips as he deepened it, his hands tightening on my hips as he devoured me, worshiped me, ruined me.

I was gone.

The cavern around us disappeared.

There was only his mouth.

Only his hands.

Only him.

I whimpered, my grip tightening in his hair, trying to ground myself, but Garreth wasn’t done.

His tongue flickered against me, his movements calculated, controlled, yet entirely feral.

I cried out, my thighs clenching, but his hands—his strong, freckled hands—held me open, held me still, held me captive.

I was completely at his mercy.

And he knew it.

His fingers dug into my skin, anchoring me as he pushed me higher, closer, right to the edge.

“You taste like sin,” he murmured against me, his voice gravelly, ruined, before his lips wrapped around me again.

A sharp, broken sob escaped my lips, my entire body trembling against the wall, against him.

And when I finally shattered, when I finally fell apart for him—

Garreth didn’t stop.

He held me through it, his hands soothing, his lips pressing reverent kisses against my trembling thighs, my hips, my stomach.

Slow. Worshipful.

Like he had all the time in the world.

I barely had the strength to breathe, my chest rising and falling in uneven gasps.

I forced my head down, my gaze meeting his—

And my heart stopped.

Garreth Weasley.

Still kneeling.

Still breathless, still wrecked, still looking at me like I was something celestial.

His lips were red, his freckles dusted in the glow of the cavern, his eyes dark with triumph.

And then—

He smirked.

A slow, wicked, unbearably cocky smirk.

He pressed one last, soft, lingering kiss against my inner thigh, his voice wrecked when he murmured—

“Now that’s a scandal for a noble lady.”
___

We lay together on the cavern floor, bodies tangled, our breaths still uneven, still recovering from the storm we had just weathered.

The glow of the crystals bathed us in soft, flickering light, painting the world in hues of blue and violet, their reflections shimmering against Garreth’s skin.

His fingers traced lazy circles along my back, his lips pressing featherlight kisses to my shoulder, my collarbone, the corner of my jaw.

I let out a slow, contented sigh, my body still humming, still entirely his.

Garreth chuckled against my skin, his voice low, warm, drenched in satisfaction.

“I did not expect that, Sweets,” he murmured, his lips brushing against my pulse point. His hands tightened ever so slightly around my waist, his breath warm, reverent, teasing.

“That was…” He exhaled sharply, shaking his head. “Bloody hell. What more if we actually went all the way?”

I smirked, turning my head to press a slow kiss to his freckled shoulder, my fingers gliding through his messy red hair, tugging gently at the strands.

“Then you’d be mine forever, Gar.”

Garreth stilled.

His fingers froze their absentminded tracing, his entire body going still against mine.

I pulled back slightly to look at him, to take in the way his chest rose and fell unevenly, the way his lips parted, the way his eyes darkened—not with lust, but with something deeper, something heavier.

He swallowed once.

Then he smiled.

Soft. Wrecked.

Like he was trying to memorize this moment, like he was memorizing me.

And then—

Garreth reached for something.

He shifted slightly, his hand slipping into the satchel discarded beside us. I watched as he pulled out a small velvet box, his thumb brushing over the fabric for just a moment before he turned it to face me.

My breath caught.

Slowly, he opened it—

And inside, resting against the soft velvet, were the most beautiful earrings I had ever seen.

Silver.

Blue gemstones.

They weren’t extravagant, not like the jewelry pureblood women wore to galas and balls. No, these were subtle, delicate, timeless. The kind of earrings I could wear every single day.

And—

My fingers trembled as I reached out, barely grazing the cool silver.

They matched.

They matched the necklace Sebastian had given me.

They matched the bracelet Ominis had placed on my wrist.

A perfect set.

My lips parted, but I had no words.

“Gar…” My voice was barely above a whisper.

He smiled, lifting one of the earrings carefully between his fingers.

“Let me put them on you, Sweets.”

I turned my head instinctively as he shifted closer, his breath ghosting against my skin as he gently pushed my hair back, tucking the loose strands behind my ear.

His hands—steady, warm, careful—brushed against my jaw as he secured the first earring in place.

Then the second.

I shivered at the feeling, at the intimacy of it.

When he was done, he lingered, his fingers still resting against my skin, his lips dangerously close to mine.

“Perfect,” he murmured, his voice wrecked, reverent.

I let out a slow breath, my fingers brushing against the cool silver now adorning my ears.

“You gave me a piece of you, too.”

Garreth grinned, his forehead pressing against mine, his voice a whisper against my lips.

“You were always mine, Sweets.”

Garreth sighed as he finally pulled away, his lips still lingering, his hands still resting on my waist as if he couldn’t bear to let me go just yet.

I let out a soft laugh, brushing my fingers through his messy red hair, still disheveled from my touch, from everything we had just done.

But we needed to get dressed.

Unfortunately.

Garreth seemed to think so too, because the moment I reached for my dress, he stole it out of my hands.

I raised a brow. “Garreth.”

His lips curled into that mischievous smirk, the one that always meant trouble. “What?”

I reached for my dress again—he dodged me.

“Gar—”

He tisked, stepping closer, holding the fabric just out of my reach. “You’re in such a rush, Sweets. We should take our time, don’t you think?”

My eyes narrowed. “I think you’re testing my patience.”

He grinned, completely unrepentant. “And what if I am?”

I sighed dramatically, shaking my head. “I should’ve known. You can be patient for potions, but not for me?”

He leaned in, his breath teasing against my ear, his voice low, sinful. “Oh, I’m very patient when I need to be, Love. You just make it… really, really hard.”

His fingers ghosted along my arms, his hands brushing over my bare skin as he helped slide the fabric over my shoulders.

But he didn’t stop there.

His hands lingered, fixing the neckline, adjusting the folds, smoothing the wrinkles—all excuses to touch me again.

It was a painfully slow process.

And when his fingers accidentally skimmed my thigh while fastening my cloak, I shot him a knowing look.

“Garreth.”

He grinned, utterly unashamed. “Yes, Sweets?”

I narrowed my eyes. “Valor’s curfew.”

His entire body froze.

It was almost comical—the way he straightened immediately, his teasing instantly forgotten.

I giggled, watching him scramble to help me finish dressing properly, his previous laziness replaced with urgency.

When we finally left the cavern, the air was crisp, the halls quiet as we walked together through the dim corridors of Hogwarts. The only sound was our footsteps and the occasional flicker of torchlight casting warm shadows along the stone walls.

Garreth’s hand brushed against mine, his fingers curling slightly as if resisting the urge to take my hand.

I smiled softly. “Thank you for tonight.”

His gaze flicked toward me, something warm, unspoken lingering in his eyes. “You don’t have to thank me, Love.”

We reached the spiral staircase of the Ravenclaw Tower, and my heart sank slightly at the sight ahead.

Waiting at the entrance, standing in a silent wall of tension, were Valor, Ominis, and Sebastian.

Valor’s arms were crossed, his piercing gaze flicking from Garreth to me, noting my slightly disheveled state with narrowed suspicion.

Ominis, ever the picture of restraint, stood with his arms folded behind him, his face unreadable—though I could see the slight furrow of his brow.

And Sebastian—Sebastian looked livid.

His jaw was tight, his hands clenched into fists at his sides, his brown eyes scanning me like he was trying to determine just how much had happened.

Garreth exhaled beside me.

“Brilliant,” he muttered under his breath.

I bit my lip to keep from laughing, turning to face him one last time.

I reached up, brushing my fingers against the silver earrings he had just given me, letting him see the way I smiled.

“Goodnight, Gar.”

Garreth hesitated, glancing at the three men waiting at the tower entrance—all of whom looked ready to hex him on the spot.

But instead of backing down, he grinned.

Cocky. Completely unafraid.

“Goodnight, Sweets.”

And with one last teasing wink, he turned on his heel and walked away—completely unbothered by the storm of jealousy he had just left in his wake.

“Well, he gave you back in time,” Valor said, arms still crossed as his sharp gaze flickered between me and the retreating figure of Garreth. “Your suitors are proving to be rule followers.”

I laughed softly, shaking my head. “You sound surprised.”

Valor smirked, tilting his head. “I am. I expected more rebellion from a Slytherin and a man with Sebastian’s reputation.”

At that, I turned to glance at Sebastian and Ominis.

They weren’t smirking.

They weren’t gloating.

They weren’t smug about following the rules.

No.

They were too quiet.

Too still.

I swallowed. “Valor—”

He sighed, clearly oblivious to the impending danger I was in. “I will leave you be. Go back to your room, sister. And you two—” he turned to Sebastian and Ominis, “go back to your dorms.”

They nodded.

Too quickly.

Too easily.

Valor gave me one last look before turning and walking away, his footsteps echoing down the empty corridor.

The moment he was out of sight—

Sebastian moved first.

I gasped as his fingers wrapped around my wrist, his grip firm, possessive, leaving no room for argument.

Ominis was just as quick, stepping forward to cut off my escape, his own hand sliding to my waist, his thumb brushing against the fabric of my cloak with purposeful slowness.

I exhaled sharply, my pulse stuttering as I stared between the two of them. “I thought you were following the rules tonight?”

Sebastian’s lips curled. “We lied.”

And then—

They dragged me away.

Down the corridor.

Through the hidden entrance.

Straight into the Room of Requirement.

Where rules no longer mattered.
___

The heavy door of the Room of Requirement sealed shut behind us, the air inside crackling with something thick, tense, electric.

Sebastian still had my wrist in his grip, though now, his thumb was brushing slow, deliberate circles against my skin—like he was testing me, coaxing something out of me.

Ominis was silent, standing just a step away, his expression unreadable, his hands tightly folded behind his back—a sure sign that he was holding himself together by sheer will.

I swallowed. “So, are we just standing here in silence, or—”

Sebastian’s voice cut through the space like a blade.

“So, how was it? With Garreth?”

I blinked, caught off guard by the sharp edge to his tone.

Sebastian rarely—if ever—sounded like that when talking about Garreth.

Possessive? Yes.

Overconfident? Always.

But this? This was different.

Ominis still hadn’t said a word. He wasn’t even looking at me—his face turned slightly to the side, jaw set so tight it could crack.

I narrowed my eyes. “Why are you two like this with Garreth?”

Sebastian tilted his head, watching me too closely.

“Like what?”

I huffed, pulling my wrist from his grip—not that it mattered, because the moment I took a step back, Ominis reached for me instead. His fingers brushed my elbow, a touch so light yet so grounding that it made my breath hitch.

“Like you want me to say something that will piss you off.”

Sebastian smirked, but it didn’t reach his eyes. “Maybe we do.”

I scoffed, shaking my head. “Do you really want to know how it was?”

Ominis exhaled through his nose, his fingers tightening ever so slightly against my arm.

Sebastian’s smirk deepened, but I could see the vein in his temple, the barely restrained tension in his shoulders.

And I realized then—

They didn’t actually want to hear it.

They just wanted to suffer.

I sighed dramatically, tilting my head as if I were fondly reminiscing.

“Let’s see…” I began, tapping my chin. “We were in a hidden cavern. You should’ve seen it—glowing gems everywhere, casting this beautiful blue light over the walls. It was… quite the atmosphere.”

Sebastian’s jaw clenched. “Go on.”

Ominis hadn’t moved, but I could feel the way his fingers flexed against my skin, his entire body rigid with restraint.

I let out a thoughtful hum, pretending to consider. “There was wine, of course. Chocolates, too.”

Sebastian’s lips parted slightly, like he was about to interrupt me—but he didn’t.

He was waiting.

Waiting for me to break him.

So, I did.

“Oh! And I wore red lingerie.”

That did it.

Sebastian’s breath hitched. Ominis’ entire body went rigid.

I leaned in just slightly, watching them with mock innocence, watching the way Sebastian’s fingers twitched at his sides, the way Ominis swallowed hard, like he was trying not to react.

And then—I delivered the final blow.

“He liked it.”

Sebastian exhaled sharply, his brown eyes darkening into something dangerous, something unrelenting.

Ominis’ fingers curled against my arm, his voice coming out low, quiet, deadly.

“Did he?”

The silence that followed was thick, suffocating.

And then—

Sebastian moved.

I barely had a moment to react before I was being backed against the nearest wall, Ominis on one side of me, Sebastian on the other.

Ominis leaned in first, his breath brushing against my jaw as he murmured, “My dear, you’re playing a very, very dangerous game.”

Sebastian laughed—low, wrecked, taunting.

“And you’re going to lose, love.”

I shivered, my breath hitching as their presence surrounded me, caged me in.

Sebastian’s hand brushed against my waist, deliberate, slow, a promise of retribution.

Ominis’ lips hovered near my ear, his voice smooth, controlled—too controlled.

“Tell me, my dear…” His fingers ghosted over my wrist, his tone deceptively soft. “…was he better than us?”

Sebastian let out a slow, mocking exhale, his thumb tracing lazy circles against my hip. “Careful, love.” His voice was silk-wrapped steel, a warning and a dare all in one. “You wouldn’t want to lie to us, would you?”

I felt my heart pound against my ribs.

I should have stopped.

I should have backed down.

But I didn’t.

Instead—I pushed them further.

I tilted my head, feigning innocence, my lips curving into something dangerously close to a smirk.

“I wouldn’t know,” I murmured, letting my voice dip, teasing, taunting.

Sebastian’s grip on my waist tightened. Ominis’ fingers curled slightly against my arm.

I should have stopped.

I didn’t.

“I couldn’t really think when he was kneeling in front of me.”

And that—that—

was the final snap.

Sebastian let out a sharp exhale, his breath rough, uneven, before I was suddenly spun, pulled, dragged to the nearest desk.

Bent forward, pressed down—not forcefully, but firmly.

Trapped.

My pulse hammered in my ears as their hands found me, as their bodies closed in on either side, caging me in.

“Bas! Ominis!” I gasped, my fingers bracing against the cool wood.

“You—” I let out a sharp breath as Sebastian’s hand splayed over my lower back, holding me just enough to keep me still.

“You are the ones who agreed to scheduled dates!”

Sebastian laughed—low, dark, wrecked.

“And you are the one who broke the game, love.”

Ominis exhaled slowly, his voice smooth as silk, brushing against my ear. “And you knew exactly what you were doing, my dear.”

Sebastian’s fingers ghosted down my spine, his touch possessive, taunting, reverent all at once.

Ominis’ hand traced the curve of my waist, his movements slow, deliberate, meant to make me shiver.

Sebastian’s grip on my waist tightened, his breath hot against my neck.

Ominis exhaled slowly, his fingers trailing a dangerous path along my hip, his voice low, deliberate, devastating.

“You knew exactly what you were doing, my dear.”

Sebastian let out a slow, wicked chuckle, his lips ghosting over my shoulder. “And now you’re going to—”

“Ms. Valancaire?”

The voice froze us.

“Deek is wondering if you are here?”

Panic shot through my veins.

Ominis stiffened behind me.

Sebastian cursed under his breath.

We scrambled.

I barely twisted out of their grasp, shoving at their chests as all three of us fumbled to straighten ourselves.

Ominis tripped over a stack of books, Sebastian practically threw himself away from me, and I—I barely managed to look composed before Deek rounded the corner.

The house-elf blinked up at us, his ears twitching slightly as he took in the scene—

The desk slightly shifted from where it had been.

The three of us breathless, slightly flushed, standing too stiffly apart.

And Sebastian’s hand still halfway on my waist.

Deek’s small eyes narrowed. “Deek hopes he is not… interrupting?”

Sebastian cleared his throat. “No, of course not, Deek.”

Ominis—ever the quickest to recover—smoothed down his robes, lifting his chin. “What do you need?”

Deek squinted at him suspiciously but continued, “Professor Weasley wishes to remind Ms. Valancaire that she has a meeting with her tomorrow morning.” His gaze flickered over me. “Deek assumes you have not forgotten?”

I forced a bright, overly polite smile. “Of course not, Deek. I’ll be there.”

Deek nodded slowly, clearly not convinced. He took one last look at the three of us before turning and vanishing with a soft pop.

The second he was gone, silence filled the room.

Then—

Sebastian let out a slow, shaky breath, dragging a hand through his hair.

Ominis sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose. “That was close.”

I swallowed, catching my breath, pressing a hand to my chest.

And then—

I looked at both of them and started laughing.

Because of course this would happen.

Sebastian groaned, throwing an arm around my shoulders, pulling me back into his chest with mock exasperation. “You’re lucky I like you, love.”

Ominis shook his head, his lips twitching in amusement. “Deek will never look at us the same way again.”

I exhaled, still catching my breath, my fingers grazing the cool edge of the desk as I steadied myself.

Sebastian and Ominis—both still tense, restless, simmering with unresolved frustration—watched me like I was the cause of all their suffering.

Which, to be fair… I was.

But that wasn’t my problem.

I smoothed my robes, ignoring the way my skin still burned from their touch, and looked between them.

“I need to go.”

Sebastian scoffed, crossing his arms, still looking far too ruffled and far too pleased with himself for my liking.

“You think you’re just going to walk out after that, love?”

Ominis was silent, but his posture was still rigid, his expression unreadable behind the furrow of his brow.

I sighed, stepping toward them, tilting my head as I studied them carefully.

“You two can control yourselves around each other.”

Sebastian’s smirk faltered slightly.

Ominis narrowed his eyes.

“So why not Garreth?” I pressed, crossing my arms.

Sebastian exhaled sharply, dragging a hand through his already-messy hair. “You’re joking, right?”

Ominis’ lips parted as if he wanted to say something, but instead, he closed his mouth, pressing his lips into a thin line.

I shook my head, stepping closer, placing a delicate hand on Ominis’ chest before turning to Sebastian, fingers skimming the fabric of his robes.

“Fix your attitude.”

Sebastian’s eyes flickered dangerously, his jaw tensing. “Or what?”

I smirked. “Or you won’t survive our next date.”

Ominis exhaled sharply, shaking his head, but I caught the way his fingers twitched, the way his stance shifted, like he was still daring me to push him further.

Sebastian just laughed—low, wicked, wrecked.

“You already plan to kill us, love.”

I smiled sweetly, tilting my chin up. “Exactly.”

And with that—I turned on my heel, leaving them both standing there, still burning, still reeling, still mine.
___

By the time I reached the Ravenclaw dormitory, my body was still buzzing—from the lingering heat of Sebastian and Ominis, from the thrill of my game, from the memories of Garreth’s hands and lips worshipping me in that glowing cavern.

But I barely had time to breathe before I was ambushed.

Poppy, Natty, Samantha, and even Everett Clopton—all waiting in the common room, their eyes sharp, their expressions far too eager.

I barely took a step inside before Samantha grabbed my wrist, tugging me toward the plush armchairs near the fire.

“Tell us everything!” Poppy practically demanded, bouncing slightly where she sat. “How was it? Where did he take you?”

I laughed, shaking my head, pretending I wasn’t still recovering from everything that had happened after that date.

“Alright, alright,” I sighed dramatically, sinking into the armchair as they all leaned in closer.

“We went to a hidden cavern,” I started, watching as their eyes widened.

“A cavern?” Natty repeated, brows lifting. “How in Merlin’s name did he find something like that?”

“You know Garreth,” I teased. “Always stumbling into the best kinds of trouble.”

Samantha sighed dreamily, already fully invested.

Poppy nudged my arm. “And? What did you do?”

I smiled, choosing my words carefully.

“We had wine, chocolates. The whole place was glowing—crystals everywhere, reflecting the candlelight.”

Samantha and Poppy exchanged a giddy look.

“That sounds so romantic,” Poppy said, practically melting into her seat.

Everett—who had been suspiciously silent—crossed his arms. “Sounds suspiciously well-planned for Weasley.”

I rolled my eyes, but before I could retort, Natty leaned forward.

“Did he give you something?” she asked knowingly.

A slow smile spread across my lips as I reached up, tucking my hair behind my ears, letting the silver earrings catch the firelight.

The girls gasped.

“Oh my Merlin,” Samantha breathed, reaching out to study them. “Those are stunning!”

Poppy’s mouth fell open. “Silver and blue? They match—”

I nodded, unable to stop the warmth spreading through me. “They match the necklace Sebastian gave me and the bracelet from Ominis.”

Natty smiled knowingly. “That was intentional.”

Everett groaned, rubbing his temples. “This love war is getting out of hand.”

Poppy ignored him, her gaze flicking to me with unmasked curiosity. “And?” she prompted. “How was it? The date, I mean. How was… Garreth?”

I exhaled, my fingers absently brushing the cool silver of the earrings.

I thought of his freckled hands gripping my thighs, his breath hot against my skin, the way he had knelt before me like I was something divine.

I thought of the way his voice had trembled, the way his lips had pressed against my wrist before he gave me these earrings.

I bit my lip, smiling softly. “He was… wonderful.”

The girls swooned, Poppy nearly falling off the couch.

Everett groaned again. “I’m leaving before I suffocate on all this romance.”

I just laughed, letting myself finally sink into the warmth of the fire, the comfort of my friends, and the memory of Garreth Weasley—who had just made it infinitely harder for me to choose.
___

A Warm Welcome – Anne’s Return

The morning air buzzed with energy, excitement, and the kind of barely contained chaos that only our group was capable of.

Anne was finally coming back to Hogwarts.

And we were going to make sure she felt it.

The Beasts Classroom had been transformed overnight—soft fairy lights strung across the wooden beams, enchanted flowers blooming in every corner, and streamers floating in the air like soft ribbons of celebration. Poppy had even convinced Professor Howin to allow some of the Puffskeins and Kneazles to roam freely, adding an extra layer of warmth to the space.

Natty and Amit had charmed banners to unfurl when Anne arrived, displaying “Welcome Home, Anne!” in glittering golden letters.

Sam—who was practically vibrating with excitement—hovered near the front, Leander Prewett at her side, their fingers interlocked, his usually smug demeanor softened just for her. Their new relationship was still fresh, and she looked entirely smitten.

“I can’t believe she’s finally coming back!” Sam gushed, squeezing Leander’s hand before turning to me. “Does she know we did all of this?”

I smiled, adjusting one of the floral arrangements. “Nope. Sebastian said he wanted it to be a surprise.”

“Speaking of, where is he?” Jace chimed in, crossing his arms. “Took him long enough to fetch her.”

I rolled my eyes. “You know how he gets. He probably made a whole dramatic speech before they even left Feldcroft.”

Everett snorted, tossing a small enchanted paper bird into the air, watching as it flapped its tiny wings. “Bet you five galleons he cried on the way here.”

“Oh, absolutely,” Leander added, smirking. “Tough Auror act aside, Sallow’s got a soft spot the size of a Hippogriff when it comes to Anne.”

Poppy grinned, brushing a Kneazle’s fur. “It’s sweet, though.”

Ominis—who had been suspiciously quiet—let out a soft sigh, his lips twitching at the corners. “He deserves this moment.”

And then—

The door opened.

All conversation halted.

Every head turned.

And there—standing in the doorway, wrapped in Sebastian’s protective hold, her brown eyes wide with emotion—was Anne.

For a heartbeat, no one spoke.

Then—

“WELCOME HOME, ANNE!”

The banners unfurled, golden letters shimmering as confetti burst into the air, swirling like enchanted fireflies.

Anne gasped, her hands flying to her mouth as she took in the scene—the flowers, the lights, the familiar faces grinning back at her.

Her eyes glossed over, her breath catching.

“You—” She turned to Sebastian, who looked equally overwhelmed, his own smile soft, full of something achingly warm. “You all did this for me?”

I stepped forward, gently taking her hands in mine.

“Of course we did, Anne.”

Jace slung an arm around my shoulders, grinning. “Only the best for our favorite Sallow.”

Sebastian huffed. “Excuse me?”

Anne laughed, wiping at the corner of her eye. “I… I don’t even know what to say.”

Ominis—who had quietly made his way to her side—offered her a rare, genuine smile, his fingers grazing her wrist in silent reassurance. “Then don’t. Just let us celebrate you.”

Everett clapped his hands together. “And speaking of celebrating—who’s ready for cake?”

Leander groaned. “You mean the one you nearly dropped on the way here?”

Sam giggled, nudging him. “It survived, didn’t it?”

Anne laughed, shaking her head as she was pulled into hug after hug, as Jace ruffled her hair, as Poppy and Natty eagerly dragged her toward the decorated table.

Sebastian stood beside me, watching with pure, unfiltered joy.

I nudged him gently. “You did good, Bas.”

He exhaled, his gaze locked on Anne, his voice soft. “She deserves this. After everything…”

I squeezed his hand. “And now she gets it.”

He turned to me then, brown eyes warm, a slow, grateful smile curling at his lips.

And as laughter filled the air, as Anne laughed brighter than I had ever seen, I knew—

Laughter echoed in the Beasts Classroom, soft fairy lights twinkling above us as Anne was surrounded by familiar faces, each one eager to catch her up on everything she had missed.

Unfortunately, that meant Samantha Dale was the one catching her up.

Which meant Anne was learning everything.

And I mean—everything.

“…So, after Bas and Ominis nearly hexed Leander off his broom, Garreth stole your brother’s potion kit, Jace somehow convinced Amit to help him sneak into the Astronomy Tower, and then—”

Anne blinked, processing. “Wait—what? Hold on, back up—who hexed who?”

Sam waved a hand dismissively. “Oh, don’t worry, no one actually got hexed. But, Jessa—” Sam turned toward me, grinning. “Tell her about your three dates.”

I choked on my drink.

Sebastian, who had been sitting beside me, his expression soft, warm, so damn peaceful, suddenly tensed.

Ominis, who had been across the room, somehow materialized beside me in an instant, pressing a kiss to my hand like he had been summoned by an invisible force.

“Oh, I’d love to hear about that,” Anne said, grinning knowingly.

Dear Merlin.

And then—

Garreth came running in, completely out of breath.

“I’m sorry I’m late! I overslept!” He bent over, hands on his knees, panting dramatically. “Got tired last night.”

Then—he looked straight at me.

And winked.

I nearly knocked over my drink.

Sebastian—**who had JUST been having a sentimental moment about his sister’s return—**immediately stiffened beside me.

Ominis’ grip on my hand tightened.

Poppy choked on her pumpkin juice.

Everett gasped. “Merlin’s beard—what does that mean?”

Jace burst out laughing. “It means Weasley has no shame.”

Garreth smirked, pleased with himself, before holding up a tray in triumph.

“Welcome back, Anne! I got your butterbeers!”

Anne, bless her, chose to ignore the tension and clapped her hands together. “Now that’s what I’m talking about.”

Garreth turned to me, grinning. “Here, Sweets.” He handed me a butterbeer first. “Figured you’d need this after last night.”

Sebastian exhaled sharply, crossing his arms. “Weasley.”

Ominis let out a slow, controlled breath.

Garreth just smirked wider, oblivious—or pretending to be oblivious—to the daggers being glared at him.

Anne, meanwhile, was soaking up the chaos with a smug smile.

Leander raised his butterbeer. “Alright, alright, let’s get the party started!”

A chorus of cheers erupted, the tension breaking as music played in the background, everyone laughing, drinking, celebrating.

But—

I could still feel three distinct gazes on me.

Garreth—smirking, triumphant, leaning into his chair like he had already won.

Sebastian—huffing, his knee bouncing slightly, his fingers tapping against his bottle as if resisting the urge to say something.

Ominis—calm, but the way his hand curled against his sleeve told me he was far from unaffected.

The celebration stretched into the afternoon, laughter and chatter filling the Beasts Classroom, the golden glow of the fairy lights making the entire space feel magical, cozy, like home.

Anne, seated comfortably among us, was grinning ear to ear, warmth in her brown eyes as she looked around at everyone. “I still can’t believe you all did this for me.”

“Of course, we did,” I smiled, reaching for her hand. “And—” I gestured to the small pile of wrapped boxes and bags on the table. “We got you gifts.”

Anne’s eyes widened in delight. “You lot didn’t have to do that.”

Sebastian huffed, crossing his arms. “Well, we did. So, start opening.”

She laughed, reaching for the first one—and that’s when the true chaos began.

The first few presents were from the girls—thoughtful, warm, and actually useful.

Poppy gave her a beautifully hand-bound notebook filled with sketches of magical creatures, each page enchanted to move slightly, as if the creatures were alive.

“Figured you’d want a few friendly faces while catching up,” Poppy said, grinning.

Natty gifted her a stunning handwoven scarf from her mother, enchanted to keep warm no matter the weather.

“You’ll need it when we take our next broom ride,” she said, nudging Anne playfully.

Samantha, still riding the high of her new relationship, gave her a collection of romance novels, some of which looked a little too scandalous for their own good.

“Because you deserve a distraction,” she winked, causing Anne to chuckle.

Then, Anne turned to me. “Jessa?”

I handed her a small package, smiling as she unwrapped it.

Inside was a carefully crafted wand holster, engraved with elegant patterns—designed for easy, seamless casting.

Anne exhaled, touched. “Jessa, this is perfect.”

“Figured you’d want to get back to spellwork without any trouble,” I said, squeezing her hand.

She nodded, running her fingers over the smooth leather. “I love it.”

Then came the boys’ gifts.

The Boys’ Absolute Disasters

The first package Anne unwrapped was from Everett.

She blinked. “What… is this?”

Everett grinned. “A self-stirring cauldron! No more hand cramps from brewing Potions.”

A pause.

Sebastian scoffed. “That’s a children’s toy.”

“It’s practical,” Everett argued.

Anne bit back a laugh, shaking her head. “Thank you, Everett.”

Next, she opened Amit’s gift—a massive astronomy book that looked heavier than a Hippogriff.

“Amit,” Anne blinked. “This is a textbook.”

Amit adjusted his glasses. “Yes, but it’s a very thorough one.”

Sebastian groaned, rubbing his temples. “Merlin, Amit.”

Anne laughed, setting it aside. “I’m sure it’ll be… informative.”

Leander’s gift was next.

Anne unwrapped it, held it up—

And stared.

“…A broom maintenance kit?”

Leander nodded eagerly. “You’ll need it for your broom!”

Sebastian looked at him like he was an idiot. “She doesn’t even own a broom, Prewett.”

Anne sighed dramatically. “Guess I need to get one now.”

Then—Garreth.

Anne opened the box and pulled out… a vial of a shimmering, unknown potion.

She stared.

The room went silent.

Garreth grinned. “It’s experimental.”

Sebastian shot up. “Don’t drink that.”

Anne burst out laughing. “I love it.”

Sebastian glared. “You cannot be serious.”

Anne wiggled the vial teasingly. “You can’t stop me, Sebastian.”

Garreth smirked proudly.

Sebastian looked like he was on the verge of an aneurysm.

Finally, she reached Jace’s gift.

To everyone’s surprise, Jace actually got her something useful—a set of enchanted quills that automatically wrote down everything spoken in a class.

Anne’s eyes lit up. “Jace, this is brilliant.”

Jace smirked, elbowing Sebastian. “See? Unlike you lot, I think ahead.”

Sebastian muttered something under his breath, but Anne ignored him, turning to the last two boxes.

Sebastian’s present was wrapped neatly, unlike his usual rushed efforts.

Anne unwrapped it and gasped softly. It was a custom-bound journal, the leather dark, soft, and engraved with her initials. Inside, the pages were enchanted to glow faintly, guiding the writer’s hand in the dark.

Anne brushed her fingers over it. “Seb… This is beautiful.”

Sebastian cleared his throat, avoiding eye contact. “Yeah, well. I figured you’d want to keep track of… everything. You know.”

She smiled softly, holding it close. “I love it.”

Ominis was next.

His gift was wrapped with such precision, I could tell he had taken his time.

Anne unwrapped it carefully—

And pulled out a delicate silver locket, engraved with swirling patterns.

She opened it—inside was a tiny enchanted photograph of her, Sebastian, and Ominis from their childhood. The image flickered between an old memory and a blank space, where new ones could be added.

Anne let out a quiet breath, her fingers tracing the metal.

Ominis’ voice was gentle, soft. “So you always have us with you, no matter where you are.”

Anne exhaled sharply, closing her fingers around the locket. “You two are ridiculous.”

Sebastian grinned. “We know.”

Anne sat back, smiling warmly. “Thank you. All of you. These gifts mean a lot.”

The moment felt perfect. Sweet. Full of love.

Then—her eyes landed on me.

She stilled, her gaze flickering over my earrings, my necklace, my bracelet.

Her lips curved.

Oh, no.

Anne leaned forward, her fingers brushing my earring lightly, before raising a brow.

“These are new.”

“Mhm.”

She glanced at Sebastian.

Then at Ominis.

Then, finally, at Garreth.

And then—her smirk grew.

Before I could stop her, Samantha—the absolute menace—seized the opportunity.

“Oh, Anne, you missed so much. Jessa’s got a whole collection now!”

Poppy giggled. “A matching set, actually.”

“One from each suitor,” Natty added helpfully.

Everett nearly spit out his drink.

Leander groaned. “Here we go.”

Anne laughed, absolutely delighted.

Sebastian grumbled something under his breath, rolling his eyes. Ominis pinched the bridge of his nose.

And Garreth?

Garreth leaned back, arms crossed, smirking like he had just won a bloody tournament.

“What can I say?” He winked at me. “Sweets deserves the best.”

Sebastian’s knee bounced aggressively.

Ominis exhaled sharply.

Anne, still grinning, turned to me. “So, Jess… who’s winning?”

The room went dead silent.

I choked, my cheeks heating as three distinct gazes burned into me.

Sam cackled, leaning back in victory.

Natty’s sharp gaze landed on me, her brows raising slightly, watching as my mind scrambled for an escape route from the absolute hell that Samantha and Anne had just created.

Then—she smirked.

“Look, her mind is already trying to stir the conversation.”

Poppy and Sam immediately agreed.

“Oh, absolutely.” Sam grinned. “She’s about to make an escape in three… two… one—”

Damn them.

They knew me too well.

And they were right—because I had just remembered something far more pressing than dealing with my three ridiculously possessive suitors and their thinly veiled battle for dominance.

I had to leave.

And they couldn’t know why.

(Flashback – The Trial Awaits)

Professor Fig’s office was dimly lit, the glow of candlelight flickering over ancient tomes and parchment as I stood before him, determined.

“Three days,” I had told him. “I’ll need three days for the trial.”

He had studied me carefully, his expression unreadable, before finally sighing. “Jessa, if this truly is a Keeper’s Trial, it will not be easy. You will face challenges designed to test you in ways you may not be prepared for.”

I clenched my jaw. “I have to do this.”

Fig leaned forward, resting his hands on the desk. “This will not go unnoticed. I can request your absence, but it will be difficult to excuse you for three days without raising questions.”

I had expected that.

That was why I had spent the last several weeks preparing in absolute secrecy—

•Sneaking into the Room of Requirement late at night to brew the potions I would need, ensuring that not even Ominis and Sebastian noticed.

•Practicing spells in the early hours of the morning, before Samantha even woke up, refining my abilities in the quiet solitude of dawn.

•Memorizing the path to San Bakar’s Tower, studying every scrap of knowledge I could find on the Keepers and their trials.

I was ready.

Or at least, I had to be.

Professor Fig exhaled deeply, finally nodding. “I will find a way to excuse you. But be careful, Jessa.”

I met his gaze, steady. “I will.”

But the truth was…

I had no idea if I would even come back alive.

Present – The Lie

I shook off the memory, forcing my expression into something light, casual, before clearing my throat.

“Actually, speaking of that—” I leaned forward, tone perfectly relaxed, as if I wasn’t about to drop a bomb in the middle of the celebration. “I’ll be gone for three days.”

Silence.

The mood shifted instantly.

Sebastian, Ominis, Garreth, and my twin brother Jace—who had been laughing just moments ago— all snapped their heads toward me, their smiles vanishing.

“What?” Sebastian’s voice was sharp, his eyes narrowing.

“Gone?” Ominis repeated, his expression unreadable—but the way his fingers flexed against the table told me he didn’t like this at all.

Garreth frowned, his usual lighthearted demeanor suddenly shifting into something far more serious. “Since when?”

Jace just stared. “Where?”

I waved a careless hand, perfectly dodging the tension that had just spiked through the room.

“I’m helping Professor Fig with some research,” I said smoothly, reaching for my butterbeer. “Nothing major.”

The tension did not ease.

“Three days is major,” Sebastian said, voice flat. “Where exactly is this research taking place?”

I shrugged, unbothered. “A few locations outside Hogwarts.”

Ominis’ brow furrowed. “And Fig needs you specifically? Not the entire class?”

I took a sip of my butterbeer. “Mhm.”

Garreth folded his arms, clearly not buying it. “If it’s just research, why not take someone with you?”

Damn it.

They were asking too many questions.

Anne—who had been **happily enjoying the gift-giving moments ago—**suddenly slammed her butterbeer onto the table.

“I just came back to Hogwarts, and now you’re leaving?!”

I winced. “Anne—”

“No!” she cut me off, arms crossed. “You barely saw me when I was gone, and now you’re disappearing again? Tomorrow?”

I sighed, trying to keep my expression neutral. “It’s just for three days.”

Sebastian leaned back in his chair, arms crossed, watching me like I was a puzzle he needed to solve.

Ominis remained tense, his grip tightening on his sleeve, his usual calm exterior cracking.

Garreth was still frowning, eyes flicking over me like he was searching for any sign of what I was hiding.

Jace, however, was the one who spoke.

“Why do I feel like you’re lying?”

I smiled sweetly. “Because you’re paranoid.”

Sebastian let out a low chuckle, but there was no amusement in it. “Paranoia’s only paranoia if we’re wrong, love.”

I needed to end this conversation.

I stretched dramatically, feigning exhaustion. “Look, it’s nothing to worry about. Fig already arranged it—I’ll be gone for three days, and I’ll be back before you know it.”

Silence.

They didn’t believe me.

But they weren’t pushing further.

Yet.

Anne sighed, exasperated. “Fine. But you better be back in one piece, Jessa.”

I smiled, ignoring the weight in my chest. “I will.”

Sebastian and Ominis exchanged a look.

Garreth was still watching me, lips slightly pursed, like he was trying to decide if he was going to let this go.

Jace?

Jace was glaring.

“You’re hiding something,” he muttered, shaking his head.

I rolled my eyes. “I’m always hiding something.”

The conversation shifted after that, but the air remained tense.

And as I sat there, laughing along with my friends, pretending everything was fine—

I couldn’t shake the feeling that when I returned…

There would be hell to pay.
___

The party continued, but not smoothly—not for me, anyway.

Despite the warm laughter, the clinking of butterbeer bottles, and Anne’s bright presence filling the room with long-missed joy—there was a problem.

A problem in the form of my three persistent suitors and my twin brother, who clearly had made it their life’s mission to interrogate me.

I knew they hadn’t let it go.

I could feel their eyes on me even as I moved around the room, helping refill drinks and dodging Poppy’s excited stories about new creatures she had encountered.

So, it was no surprise that the moment I approached their table, butterbeer in hand, I was immediately ambushed.

Sebastian was the first to strike.

“So, love,” he drawled, reclining against his chair with forced ease, his brown eyes too sharp, too knowing. “This little… research trip. Are you at least taking a broom with you?”

I hummed as I poured his butterbeer. “No need.”

Ominis tilted his head, expression unreadable but his grip on his sleeve notably tighter. “No need? You’re leaving Hogwarts for three days, and you don’t think you need an escape plan?”

“It’s just research, Ominis.” I handed him his drink, offering a sweet, innocent smile that I knew he wouldn’t believe.

Garreth leaned forward, elbows on the table, watching me like I was an unsolved experiment. “Are you at least taking extra potions?”

“Mhm.”

Jace, who had been silent until now, suddenly snorted, crossing his arms.

“You’re lying.”

I sighed, moving to hand him his drink. “Jace—”

“No, really.” He shook his head, eyeing me like I was some puzzle he refused to let go unsolved. “You’re dodging everything, which means you’re up to something.”

Sebastian grinned at that, tapping his fingers against his bottle. “Agreed. She’s a terrible liar when it comes to herself.”

I rolled my eyes. “Oh, but I’m an excellent liar otherwise?”

Ominis’ lips twitched, but his voice was flat, unreadable. “You do tend to lie when it benefits you, my dear.”

Garreth chuckled, swirling his butterbeer. “So, logically, we should assume this benefits you in some way.”

“You’re all exhausting.” I muttered, setting down the last bottle with more force than necessary.

Jace narrowed his eyes. “So, what is it, Jess? Where are you really going?”

I sighed dramatically, shaking my head. “You lot are acting like I’m running off to war.”

Sebastian’s eyes darkened slightly. “Aren’t you?”

The air shifted.

I paused, realizing my mistake, before quickly covering it up with a light laugh.

“Merlin’s sake, Sebastian. It’s just an assignment.”

None of them looked convinced.

But before they could press further—

“You all are insufferable,” Anne suddenly cut in, stepping up beside me and crossing her arms. “Let her enjoy the party.”

I exhaled in relief, shooting her a grateful look.

Sebastian, however, simply leaned back, taking a slow sip of his butterbeer. “We’ll talk later, love.”

Ominis nodded, his voice smooth, but firm. “This isn’t over, my dear.”

Garreth simply grinned. “Oh, we’ll get it out of you eventually, Sweets.”

Jace—the one person who actually knew me best—simply shook his head, still not buying a word of it.

“You can run, Jess. But you can’t hide forever.”

___

The party had finally died down, the energy slowly shifting from loud celebrations to tired laughter, drowsy smiles, and a lingering warmth that settled deep in my chest.

Anne, still glowing from all the attention, stretched her arms with a content sigh, looking around at everyone who had stayed until the very end.

“Thank you. All of you.” Her gaze softened. “I wasn’t sure what it would feel like, coming back here, but… you all made it feel like home again.”

Sebastian, who had been standing dangerously close to me all night, nudged her shoulder with a smirk. “Of course, we did. You’re Anne Sallow. Hogwarts was incomplete without you.”

Anne rolled her eyes, but the emotion in them was clear.

Then—her gaze flickered to me.

“Although someone—” she said pointedly, turning to face me with a teasing glare, “—decided to leave the moment I got back.”

Laughter rippled through the group.

I laughed too, raising my hands in mock innocence. “What can I say? I have responsibilities.”

Anne shook her head, exasperated. “You better make it up to me.”

I smirked. “Drinks on me next time.”

___

We left the Beasts Classroom together, the air crisp, the castle glowing under the moonlight as we made our way back.

And yet—

The weight of tomorrow pressed heavily against my chest.

I had done everything I could to prepare—the spells, the potions, the strategy.

But that didn’t mean I wasn’t terrified.

If this was truly a trial, it wouldn’t be easy.

I might not come back.

I exhaled sharply, shaking the thought away.

I wasn’t alone.

I had Fig. I had my magic.

I had my own damn will to survive.

But I also had… them.

Sebastian, who still hadn’t let this go, his sharp brown eyes flickering toward me every few minutes as if waiting for me to slip up and confess everything.

Ominis, silent but tense, his arms folded, his lips slightly pursed as if he was holding back words.

Garreth, smirking and lighthearted on the surface, but his occasional glances at me betrayed the fact that he was still thinking about it too.

And Jace.

My twin.

The one person I couldn’t lie to.

He had barely spoken after I made my little “announcement”.

But I felt his gaze.

Watching. Calculating. Waiting for me to crack.

I needed to escape.

I cleared my throat, offering a bright smile. “Well! That was fun.”

Sebastian raised a brow. “Mhm.”

Ominis remained silent.

Garreth smirked. “It was.”

Jace narrowed his eyes.

I clapped my hands together, pretending I wasn’t suffocating under their scrutiny.

“I need to pack for tomorrow! I’ll see you all at breakfast.”

Then—I turned, attempting to make my great escape.

I didn’t get far.

A hand grabbed my wrist.

Sebastian.

I turned back slowly, already regretting everything.

His gaze was unreadable, but his grip was firm.

“We’re walking you to the dormitory, love.”

I smiled sweetly, trying to tug my hand free. “That’s really not necessary—”

Ominis stepped closer, his voice smooth. “Oh, we insist, my dear.”

Garreth, grinning but completely unhelpful, draped an arm over my shoulder. “It’s dangerous to walk alone at night, Sweets.”

Jace sighed, rolling his eyes but clearly not arguing.

Damn it.

I groaned, giving up as they flanked me from all sides like a pack of wolves.

The walk back to the dormitory was supposed to be peaceful.

Instead, it was pure torture.

Sebastian, Ominis, Garreth, and Jace had formed an unholy alliance, grilling me from all sides as we made our way through the castle.

And to make matters worse—Samantha, my so-called best friend, had joined in.

“You lot act like I’m leaving for a year!” I huffed, exasperated, throwing my hands up. “It’s three days! Three!”

Sebastian rolled his eyes, scoffing. “Three days is plenty of time for you to get into trouble, love.”

Ominis nodded, his lips pursed in disapproval. “And you’re quite skilled at that.”

Garreth, walking a step ahead, turned to face me while walking backward, grinning. “At this point, it’s practically a talent.”

Jace, the most dramatic of them all, crossed his arms, shaking his head. “You’re the worst at self-preservation, Jess. We know you.”

I sighed deeply, rubbing my temples.

“I am with Professor Fig!” I argued, pleading for them to see reason. “I will be fine!”

Another round of arguments erupted.

Ominis refused to believe that I wasn’t keeping something from them.

Sebastian was still convinced I was going somewhere dangerous.

Garreth jokingly suggested they all just follow me.

Jace wasn’t joking.

And Samantha?

She betrayed me.

“I worry too, you know,” she said, arms crossed, her Ravenclaw robes swishing as she kept pace beside me. “You never tell me anything.”

I gawked at her. “Not you too!”

She sighed dramatically, shaking her head. “Jessa, we all know how you are. You’ll throw yourself into danger before you even think about it.”

Sebastian snorted, clearly pleased. “See? Even your best friend agrees.”

“She is supposed to be on my side!” I shot Samantha a betrayed look, but she merely shrugged.

“Not when you’re being suspicious.”

Students passing by started staring as we continued arguing like an absolute dysfunctional mess in the middle of the castle halls.

I heard a group of Hufflepuffs whispering, shooting us amused glances.

A passing Gryffindor nudged his friend. “Oh, I heard about this love war—”

I groaned. “For Merlin’s sake.”

The Final Stand

When we finally reached the staircase leading up to the Ravenclaw Tower, I turned on my heel, planting my feet firmly on the ground.

I glared at all of them, my patience at its limit.

“I am going on an academic trip. I will be gone for three days. I will return unharmed.”

Silence.

Sebastian stared. “I don’t believe you.”

Ominis nodded. “Nor do I.”

Garreth tilted his head. “You’re really bad at lying, Sweets.”

Jace just crossed his arms. “You’re hiding something.”

Samantha sighed heavily, rubbing her temples. “She’s definitely hiding something.”

I groaned so loudly that a nearby portrait tutted in disapproval.

“I hate you all.”

Sebastian grinned. “Love you too.”

I turned sharply, heading up the stairs before they could drag me into another argument.

As I reached the door to the Ravenclaw Tower, I heard Sebastian’s voice calling after me—

“We’ll be waiting for you at breakfast, love!”

Ominis added smoothly, “And we will be discussing this further, my dear.”

Garreth, ever the menace, winked. “Dream of me, Sweets!”

And Jace?

“If you die, I’m bringing you back just to kill you myself.”

I let out a long-suffering sigh as the door closed behind me.

Tomorrow was going to be hell.
___

Packing was meant to be simple.

It should have been efficient, methodical—a quiet moment of preparation before the storm.

But then again, I had Samantha Dale as my best friend.

And she was currently stuffing dresses into my bag.

I let out a snort of laughter, pulling one out and holding it up. “Sam, I am not attending a party.”

She didn’t tease me back.

Which was unusual.

I turned to look at her—and my smile slowly faded.

Because I knew that look.

Her brows were knit together, her lips pressed into a thin line, her fingers fidgeting slightly as she tucked another item into my bag.

She was worried.

I reached out, taking her hand gently.

“Don’t worry, Sam.” I gave her a small squeeze, a reassuring smile. “I will be okay. I promise.”

She stared at me, searching my face as if trying to see past the lie I wasn’t telling.

Then—she sighed, squeezing my hand in return. “You better. Because if you die, I will personally help Jace revive you just to help him kill you.”

I laughed, shaking my head. “Noted.”

She huffed, rolling her eyes, but her expression softened slightly.

And then—without another word, she continued helping me pack.

Checking my potions.

Making sure I had spare parchment.

Reminding me of all the things I had to be careful of.

And I let her fuss over me.

Because, deep down—I knew she needed to.

Finally, after the last item was packed, we both collapsed onto our beds, the soft glow of candlelight flickering across the ceiling.

The weight of what was coming tomorrow pressed heavy against my chest.

___

The soft hoot of my owl pulled me from sleep.

I blinked blearily, the dim glow of moonlight casting soft shadows across the dormitory.

With a sigh, I pushed myself up, reaching for the small parchment tied to its leg.

Carefully, I unfolded it—already having a sinking feeling in my stomach.

And there it was, in familiar handwriting:

Meet us at the Room of Requirement.

–Sebastian & Ominis.

Oh, dear.

I sighed, rubbing my temples. Of course, they wouldn’t just let me leave without one final interrogation.

With a resigned shake of my head, I slid out of bed, throwing on my night robe over my sleepwear. I moved quietly, careful not to wake Samantha as I slipped my wand into my pocket and tiptoed toward the door.

One careful step at a time.

Navigating the castle at night was second nature to me now—years of sneaking out with Sebastian, Ominis, and our friends had made me practically invisible in the corridors.

Still, my heart pounded as I made my way toward the Room of Requirement, keeping to the shadows, listening carefully for the sound of wand-lit patrols.

Finally, after what felt like a lifetime, I reached the hidden door.

I took one deep breath and pushed it open.

Two Slytherins in Silk Pajamas

The moment I stepped inside, the first thing I noticed—

Was that they looked good.

Too good.

Sebastian was leaning against a chair, barefoot, his sleep shirt slightly rumpled, his brown eyes sharp despite the late hour.

Ominis stood beside him, arms folded neatly across his chest, his pristine silk pajama set looking far too regal for someone who was here to cause me trouble.

And Merlin’s beard, the brooding.

They were both brooding.

I could practically feel the weight of their judgmental silence pressing down on me.

I inhaled deeply, forcing myself to smile as I prepared for another set of lies.

“You two look good in your pajamas.”

A deflection.

A perfectly crafted distraction.

Sebastian narrowed his eyes, unimpressed. “Nice try, love.”

Ominis tilted his head, his lips curving slightly. “Flattery will not save you, my dear.”

Damn it.

I exhaled slowly, schooling my face into calm, effortless innocence.

“I was sleeping, you know.” I crossed my arms. “This could have waited until morning.”

Sebastian arched a brow, pushing off the chair and taking a slow step forward. “Could it?”

I held my ground. “Yes.”

Ominis sighed, shaking his head. “Jessa. This is the last time we’re going to ask nicely.”

I blinked innocently. “Ask what?”

Sebastian let out a dry laugh, rubbing his jaw before leveling me with a look. “Where the hell are you actually going?”

I smiled sweetly. “I already told you.”

Ominis was unmoved. “We don’t believe you.”

Oh, for Merlin’s sake.

Sebastian’s arms crossed, his brown eyes piercing, watching me like a predator circling its prey.

“So Fig found more information about the portraits, is that it?”

I nodded, my voice smooth, practiced. “Yes, Bas. In fact, he uncovered more of Miriam’s research, and we need to verify it. That’s why we’re going.”

Sebastian’s eyes narrowed slightly, but he didn’t interrupt.

Ominis, however, was far less convinced.

“Three days,” he repeated slowly, his voice calm, measured, but dripping with skepticism. “Really?”

I smiled at him, keeping my tone light, easy, reassuring. “Yes, my knight. There’s a lot to do.”

Ominis’ lips pressed into a thin line. “More than can be done in a single day? Fig has done plenty of research within the castle. I fail to see why this suddenly requires a three-day expedition.”

Sebastian let out a low, unimpressed chuckle, shaking his head. “She’s avoiding the question.”

“I am not.”

“You are.”

“I’m not—” I sighed, pinching the bridge of my nose. “Bas, I’m telling the truth.”

Sebastian took a slow step closer, towering over me, his voice dropping to something low, serious, edged with frustration.

“Then tell me this, love—why do you look like you’re going to war?”

I froze.

Ominis, standing beside him, tilted his head, his jaw tight. “That’s what’s wrong, Jessa. You don’t look like someone going on a research trip. You look like you’re preparing for a battle you’re not sure you’ll return from.”

Damn them.

They knew me too well.

I forced myself to breathe, carefully keeping my expression calm, neutral, unaffected.

“You two are being dramatic.”

Sebastian let out a sharp exhale, running a hand through his hair. “You’re lying to us.”

Ominis’ fingers tightened against his sleeve. “You could at least have the decency to make it believable.”

I sighed, frustrated. I knew they cared. That’s why they were like this.

And I was sorry—truly, deeply sorry that I was lying to them.

But I couldn’t tell them the truth.

Not yet.

I exhaled sharply, meeting their gazes with exhaustion, exasperation, but also something softer—an unspoken plea.

“What exactly do you guys want me to say?”

Sebastian’s eyes flashed, his fingers flexing at his sides.

Ominis’ expression remained unreadable, but I saw the subtle shift in his posture, the tension coiled beneath his calm facade.

Neither of them answered.

Because the truth was… they didn’t want me to say anything.

They wanted me to stay.

I sighed, shaking my head, half-exasperated, half-amused. “You two act like I’m leaving forever. It’s just three days.”

Then, just to tease them, I smirked. “What more if we separate during the school breaks?”

Ominis immediately scoffed. “That’s different. You’re with your family.”

Sebastian, however, was not as diplomatic.

He let out a sharp laugh, crossing his arms. “Oh, you think this is bad? Love, if you went off somewhere without telling us during break, I’d personally march to your estate, knock down your door, and drag you back myself.”

I blinked, torn between laughing and being concerned. “That’s a bit much, don’t you think?”

Sebastian arched a brow, his brown eyes darkening. “Is it?”

Ominis nodded in agreement, completely unfazed by Sebastian’s dramatics. “It’s not excessive if it’s necessary.”

I sighed, shaking my head. “You two are impossible.”

Sebastian smirked. “And you love it.”

I rolled my eyes, placing a hand on each of their cheeks, forcing them to look at me.

Their expressions softened—Sebastian’s usual mischief melting into something warmer, more vulnerable, while Ominis tilted his head slightly into my touch, his breath steadying.

“I will be fine,” I whispered, gentle but firm. “I promise. I’ll come back.”

I saw the exact moment they eased, the tension in their shoulders loosening slightly.

But then—Sebastian smirked.

“We will hunt you down if you don’t.”

Ominis exhaled, nodding as if this was a reasonable plan. “That is not an exaggeration, my dear.”

I laughed, shaking my head.

“Now,” Sebastian suddenly mused, stepping closer, his voice dropping into that familiar, dangerous tone. “How do we soak up three days’ worth of you?”

Oh.

Oh, Merlin.

I knew exactly where this was going.

I backed up slightly, my heart picking up speed, but Sebastian was already reaching for my wrist, his grip warm and firm.

Ominis, silent but entirely complicit, traced a feather-light touch along my arm, tilting his head as if considering the possibilities.

“We’ll need to make up for lost time, won’t we?” Ominis murmured, his voice silken, teasing, dangerous.

Sebastian’s smirk widened. “Oh, absolutely.”

___

The first thing we did was make sure Deek wouldn’t interrupt.

Ominis had taken precise, practiced steps, his wand moving with effortless grace as he placed ward after ward around the door—each one sealing us inside, each one ensuring we wouldn’t be disturbed.

Sebastian, meanwhile, had been watching me the entire time, his smirk slow, dangerous, knowing.

And then—with one swift motion, he moved.

I barely had time to react before strong arms lifted me off the ground, carrying me toward the plush, grand bed that the Room of Requirement had so kindly provided.

I let out a startled laugh, my arms instinctively curling around Sebastian’s neck, my fingers tangling in his hair.

“You said you liked our pajamas, love.” His voice was deep, rich with amusement, his lips grazing my ear as he settled me down onto the soft sheets.

I barely had time to breathe before Ominis leaned over me, his fingers tracing the line of my jaw, tilting my chin up toward him.

“Too bad they won’t be on for long.”

A shiver rippled down my spine, my pulse stuttering, as I watched them step back—giving me a perfect, unobstructed view.

And then—they began to undress.

Slowly.

Deliberately.

Undoing each button, each layer, piece by piece—

Letting me watch.

I swallowed, my breath catching slightly as my eyes traveled lower, settling just below their stomachs—

Where I could see the proof of how much they ached for me.

Sebastian’s smirk deepened, dark and pleased as he caught me staring, his fingers trailing lazily down his abdomen, as if daring me to look away.

Ominis, on the other hand, simply exhaled, tilting his head like he could feel the exact moment I lost control of my breath.

Their hands moved painfully slow, deliberately stripping me inch by inch, letting their fingers linger against my skin, as if trying to memorize every curve, every breath, every shiver.

It was torturous, how they took their time—too much time.

Ominis’ touch was soft, teasing, his fingers ghosting over my shoulders, down my arms, along my ribs, his lips barely brushing my temple as he whispered—

“You are ours, my dear.”

Sebastian was less patient.

His hands were hot, sliding over my waist, his breath ragged against my neck, his voice drenched in need, in frustration, in something deeper.

“We should be coming with you,” he murmured, his lips tracing a slow, heated path down my collarbone. “You shouldn’t be going alone.”

I couldn’t think.

Couldn’t breathe.

The more they did this, the more they learned, the more skilled they became.

I was drowning in them.

And they were not letting me do anything.

I tried to move—to touch them, to return the favor—but Sebastian was strong, his hands pinning me down against the soft sheets, his grip firm, unrelenting.

Ominis exhaled against my throat, his voice a low, pleased hum.

“No, my love. Not tonight.”

Sebastian smirked, tilting my chin up to meet his gaze, his brown eyes molten, smoldering with something dangerous.

“Tonight, we savor you.”

A sharp gasp escaped me as one settled between my thighs, the other capturing my lips, swallowing every sound that followed.

I could feel the tension, the ache, the restraint—

They wanted to cross the line.

I saw it in the way Sebastian’s grip trembled, how his fingers dug into my hips, his body pressed against me like he was barely holding himself back.

I felt it in Ominis’ shuddering breath, the way his hand traced the inside of my thigh before stopping, his lips pressing firmly to my temple as if reminding himself to keep control.

But they wouldn’t let each other lose it.

So instead, they worshipped me.

Devoted themselves to making me feel.

Over and over again.

I couldn’t hold back anymore.

I let my voice spill into the air, raw, unfiltered, letting them hear exactly how they were making me feel.

They liked it.

A little too much, in my opinion.

Sebastian groaned against my skin, his grip tightening. “Merlin, love, you’ll be the death of us.”

Ominis let out a shaky exhale, pressing his lips to my wrist, his voice breathless, wrecked. “Sing for us again, my dear.”

I shuddered, my body arching into them, my breath coming out in soft, uneven gasps.

“Keep going, and you might kill me first.”

Sebastian laughed against my throat, his voice dark, wicked. “Oh, we’re nowhere near finished, love.”

I was lost in them.

Their hands trailed every inch of my skin, claiming, cherishing, memorizing—as if they could sear their touch into me, as if they could keep me with them even after I was gone.

And then—they turned me over.

My stomach pressed into the soft sheets, my breath hitching as their hands followed, fingertips tracing delicate patterns down my spine, pressing into the places that made me shudder.

Ominis was the most enthusiastic about this.

His touch firm, unrelenting, his lips ghosting over my shoulder blades, his fingers gripping me, kneading me, tracing over the curves of my body as if he was utterly enraptured.

I let out a breathless laugh, tilting my head to the side, my voice teasing. “Ominis, you’re enjoying yourself a little too much, aren’t you?”

His breath caught, his grip tightening for just a second before he exhaled slowly, his lips curving against my shoulder.

“Can you blame me, my dear?”

Sebastian chuckled lowly, his hands skimming lower, pressing into the small of my back, his voice thick with amusement. “I’d be more worried about what’s about to happen if I were you, love.”

I smirked. “Oh? What exactly are you—”

Then I realized.

I had been noticing things.

Sebastian, despite all of his roguish tendencies, despite his reckless nature, his overwhelming desire—was absolutely obsessed with my chest.

His lips always found their way there, his hands never lingering far, like he was mesmerized, entranced.

And Ominis?

His focus was elsewhere.

He had an unholy fixation on my behind, his touch always returning, his fascination undeniable.

So, of course, I teased them.

Big mistake.

The second the words left my mouth, their control snapped.

Sebastian’s hands tightened, gripping me with renewed determination, his low growl vibrating against my skin.

Ominis let out a low, pleased hum, fingers trailing, pressing, rewarding me and punishing me all at once.

The sudden, overwhelming pleasure made my entire body arch, a sharp cry tearing from my lips before I bit down on the pillow beneath me, muffling the sound.

Sebastian laughed darkly, his voice wrecked, satisfied. “Oh, love, you really shouldn’t have done that.”

Ominis’ voice was silken, deadly, utterly delighted. “Now, you’ve made this a challenge.”

I barely had time to breathe before they set upon me again, their devotion relentless, their touch sending me spiraling, unraveling, consumed.

I was a mess beneath them, gasping, trembling, gripping the sheets with desperate fingers, biting down on the pillow to hold in the sounds that threatened to escape.

They weren’t just touching me.

They were branding me.

Worshipping me.

Making sure that even three days away from them wouldn’t be enough to forget.

I turned my head, my breath uneven, wrecked, my voice a pleading whisper.

“You’re both insufferable.”

Sebastian pressed a kiss against my spine, his smirk evident in his voice. “Just for you.”

Ominis let out a soft laugh, his lips brushing against my shoulder. “Desperately, my dear.”

And as I collapsed beneath them, boneless, breathless, ruined—

I knew they were right.
___

I lay between them, my body still humming, my breath steadying, as I stared blankly at the ceiling.

The weight of the night pressed around us, the warmth of their bodies anchoring me, grounding me.

Even after everything, I could still feel the ghost of their hands, the soft trails of their lips, the lingering ache of their devotion.

But despite it all—the pleasure, the closeness, the unspoken promises—I could still feel the worry creeping in.

Three days.

Three days away from them.

I let out a slow breath, pushing past the feeling, instead choosing to tease.

I turned my head slightly, smirking. “Well? Were those worth the three days?”

Sebastian let out a soft laugh, his voice hoarse, worn, satisfied.

“Not even close, love.”

Ominis huffed beside me, his hand resting on my stomach, tracing idle circles, his tone matter-of-fact. “We’ll never make up for lost time. But we certainly tried.”

I chuckled, but the sound was softer than I intended.

The worry was still there—thick in my throat, heavy in my chest.

I swallowed it down.

And because I couldn’t sit in silence, because I hated the thought of leaving them behind, because I needed to lighten the mood before I fell apart—

I joked.

“I have my girls looking over you, you know.”

Sebastian stilled beside me.

Ominis let out a low hum, tilting his head. “Oh?”

I smirked. “Mhm. I made sure Poppy, Natty,Sam and Anne will keep an eye on you two.”

Sebastian groaned, rolling onto his side, draping an arm over me possessively. “Bloody hell, now we have spies?”

I grinned. “Oh, yes. And if you so much as look at another girl, I will know.”

Sebastian chuckled, pressing a lazy kiss against my shoulder. “You’ve got nothing to worry about, love. We’re far too obsessed with you to look at anyone else.”

Ominis exhaled, shifting slightly, his lips brushing my temple. “Entirely too obsessed, my dear.”

I closed my eyes, exhaling deeply, letting their words wrap around me like a promise.

Three days.

Just three days.

And then, I would come back to them.
___

Eventually—they let me go.

It took far too long, with far too many lingering touches, stolen kisses, and murmured words of warning about staying safe.

But finally, they relented.

And because they were ridiculous, because they were impossibly stubborn and entirely overprotective, they insisted on walking me back to the dormitory.

Which was stupid.

Because what if we got caught?

“You two realize this is completely unnecessary, right?” I whispered as we navigated through the dim corridors, my night robe tightly wrapped around me, still feeling the heat of their hands on my skin.

Sebastian smirked, walking beside me as if he wasn’t sneaking around after curfew. “And yet, here we are.”

Ominis sighed dramatically, his arm brushing against mine as he walked. “Do you truly believe we’d let you wander the castle alone after what just happened?”

I sighed, shaking my head. “You two are impossible.”

Sebastian leaned in, his lips brushing my ear. “And you love it.”

Ominis exhaled beside me, his voice warm, amused. “Hopelessly, my dear.”

I rolled my eyes, but my lips curved into a small smile.

We reached the staircase to Ravenclaw Tower, the grand eagle-knocker looming above us.

I turned to them, stepping back slowly, my fingers lingering one last time against their hands.

“See you at breakfast, my loves.”

Sebastian grinned, but there was something softer in his eyes, something that told me he still wasn’t ready to say goodbye.

“You’d better show up, love.”

Ominis tilted his head slightly, his fingers tracing over mine one last time before releasing me. “Don’t make us come find you.”

I smirked, stepping backward toward the dormitory door. “Oh, I’m counting on it.”

With one last glance, I slipped inside, feeling their gazes linger on me even after the door closed.

Tomorrow, I would be gone.

But for now, for this one last moment, I still had them.

___

The morning light cast a golden glow over my desk, illuminating the two sealed letters that awaited me, their wax crests bearing the unmistakable mark of House Valancaire.

I knew what they contained before I even touched them.

Warnings. Worries. And, of course, thinly veiled threats.

With a sigh, I broke the first seal—Mother’s letter, the parchment crisp beneath my fingers.

Her script was elegant, precise, controlled, every word woven together with both affection and absolute authority.

My Dearest Jessa,

Do not mistake my silence for ignorance. I know you, daughter, and I know when you are walking into something beyond your reach.

If I were a more sentimental woman, I would tell you to follow your heart. But I am not.

So instead, I will tell you this—if you return to me broken, if you return to me harmed, I will remind you why Valancaires do not wander unguarded.

You are my child. You are my pride. And you are a fool if you think I will not intervene if necessary.

Return whole. Return wise. Or do not return at all.

With unwavering love,

Lady Valancaire

I exhaled sharply.

She knew. Of course, she knew.

She always did.

Bracing myself, I reached for Father’s letter—his seal pressed deeper into the wax, as if it had been stamped with twice the force necessary.

His handwriting was sharper, bolder, unyielding.

Jessa,

You are a Valancaire. That is not a privilege. It is a duty. And yet, you seem insistent on testing the patience of everyone who has sworn to your well-being.

If you do not return, I will personally see to it that your ‘research’ is dismantled, that Hogwarts is no longer your concern, and that you find yourself under the watchful care of your grandmother at Valancaire Keep until further notice.

Do not test me.

Vix and Valor will see you off. Expect their report.

– Lord Valancaire

I let out a slow, deep breath, pressing my fingertips against my temple.

“For Merlin’s sake.”

Not only did I now have to deal with Sebastian, Ominis, and Garreth’s overprotectiveness, but now my family was mobilizing.

Preparing for Departure

Samantha was silent as she helped me prepare—her usual teasing noticeably absent.

She fastened the buttons of my traveling coat, adjusting the fit without a word.

And that’s when I knew.

She was truly worried.

I turned, my eyes drifting toward my dresser, where the delicate silver hair ornament rested

I reached out, fingers grazing over the smooth metal.

I couldn’t take it today.

Instead, I left it where it was, turned away, and grabbed my bag.
____

The Great Hall was as loud as ever, but as I approached our usual table, I felt the shift.

They had noticed my attire immediately.

Anne was seated beside Jace, because—as Jace had so eloquently declared—this was ‘where neglected twins sit.’

Sebastian and Ominis, as always, had claimed their rightful spots on either side of me.

My girls had their boys at their sides.

And Garreth sat directly across from me, his green eyes sharp with worry.

I set down my bag casually, lifting my tea cup.

“Don’t jinx me! You lot look like I’m going to war.”

It did absolutely nothing to ease their concern.

Natty, ever the one to lighten the mood, smiled playfully.

“We will look after your suitors. If they so much as hint at flirting with anyone, we will hex them.”

Sebastian scoffed. “As if we’d even look at anyone else.”

Garreth grinned, raising his hands in surrender. “You have my complete loyalty, Sweets.”

Ominis, lips curving slightly, tilted his head toward me. “You truly believe we’d be capable of such a thing, my dear?”

I smirked, shaking my head. “You lot are ridiculous.”

Anne & The Girls Complain

Anne pouted, arms crossed. “You won’t even be in class.”

Samantha sighed dramatically. “And who will be my partner in Herbology?”

Poppy frowned. “Or help us in Beasts class?”

Natty nodded. “And who will sit with us at meals, forcing us to tolerate your suitors?”

Everett snorted. “You’re acting like she’s never coming back.”

Samantha huffed, ignoring him. “It will feel like it!”

Leander, clearly amused, patted her head. “She’ll return, Dale.”

I laughed, patting Sam’s hand. “You’ll all survive without me for three days.”

None of them looked convinced.

My Suitors, Too Quiet

Sebastian, Ominis, and Garreth were too quiet.

Instead of arguing or teasing, they were—serving me.

•Sebastian cut my bread with too much focus, as if it required expert-level skill.

•Ominis stirred my tea, ensuring the perfect balance before passing it to me.

•Garreth kept piling my plate with food as if I was going on a six-month expedition.

I sighed, placing my hands over theirs in reassurance.

“I’ll be fine.”

Sebastian scoffed. “We’ll see.”

Ominis exhaled. “You say that, my dear, but we’ve yet to see any proof.”

Garreth just grinned tightly, eyes flicking toward me. “Guess we’ll have to trust you, Sweets.”

I squeezed their hands one last time.

Then—Jace Spoke.

And everything imploded.

Jace, who had been watching me sharply, finally spoke.

“Vix and Valor will see you off too.”

I blinked. “They will?”

Jace nodded, then delivered the final blow.

“I swear to Merlin, Jessa, if you are up to something dangerous, I will request to Mother and Father to transfer you to Beauxbatons.”

Silence.

The entire table froze.

And then—chaos erupted.

Sebastian nearly choked on his drink. “I—WHAT?!”

Ominis, usually so composed, actually looked startled. “You wouldn’t.”

Garreth slammed his hands on the table. “ABSOLUTELY NOT.”

Samantha gasped. “Jace, you wouldn’t dare!”

Anne looked horrified. “Jace, what the hell?!”

Everett smirked. “I kind of want to see the suitors riot.”

I—just stared.

Jace, calmly sipping his tea, merely shrugged.

“Try me.”

I groaned, dropping my head against the table.

“I hate all of you.”

Sebastian smirked. “Love you too, sweetheart.”

Ominis sighed, brushing a strand of hair behind my ear. “Desperately, my dear.”

Garreth chuckled. “So much it hurts, Sweets.”

I groaned again.

Breakfast had ended, and now—it was time.

I made my way through the castle, bag slung over my shoulder, boots clicking softly against the stone floors, trying to ignore the tightening in my chest.

The castle gates stood open ahead, Professor Fig waiting beside the carriage, his expression patient but knowing.

But, of course—I wasn’t leaving without an entire entourage.

•Vix, Valor, and Jace— my overbearing but beloved brothers, arms crossed, faces unreadable.

•Sebastian, Ominis, and Garreth— my suitors, looking far from pleased.

•Samantha, Poppy, Natty, and Anne— my girls, standing firm, arms linked, ready to be my last line of defense against any ridiculous dramatics.

Professor Fig glanced at the massive crowd following me, raising a brow.

“Ah. I see you have an army escorting you.”

I sighed. “Not my choice.”

Before I could even take a step toward the carriage, my brothers descended upon me.

Vix was first, his grip firm as he pulled me into a hug.

“Three days, Jessa.” His voice was calm, serious, but the warning was there. “Three. That’s all.”

I smirked against his shoulder. “Oh? And what happens on day four?”

“You don’t want to find out.”

He pulled back just enough to give me the look—the same one he used when we were children and I was about to do something undeniably reckless.

Then came Valor, whose hug was just as unrelenting, as if he was trying to silently will me into staying put.

“Don’t do anything stupid.” His voice was low, sharp, edged with quiet frustration.

I grinned, looking up at him. “Valor, I can’t make that promise.”

He sighed, pressing his fingers to his temple. “That’s exactly what I was afraid of.”

And finally—Jace.

He didn’t speak right away, just wrapped his arms around me, holding me a little longer than the others.

Finally, he murmured, “Don’t make me regret not writing that letter.”

I laughed, even as my throat tightened.

“Oh, you adore me too much for that, twin.”

He sighed dramatically. “Unfortunately.”

Then, it was the suitors’ turn.

Sebastian pulled me in first, hard and fast, his arms locking tight around me, his face buried in my hair.

His voice was low, rough, right against my ear. “Three days, love. Not a second longer.”

I rolled my eyes. “You act as if I’ll be gone for months.”

“It’ll feel like months.”

His grip tightened briefly, then he pulled back just enough to press a slow, lingering kiss to my forehead.

Then—Ominis.

He was softer, but no less fierce, his hands sliding along my arms before settling gently at my waist.

His lips brushed my temple, his voice barely above a whisper.

“Travel safely, my dear.”

I swallowed past the tightness in my throat, squeezing his hand. “I will.”

And then—Garreth.

Who—unlike the others—immediately swept me off my feet.

“Nope. I’ve changed my mind. You’re not going anywhere.”

I squeaked, half-laughing, half-mortified. “Garreth, put me down!”

Sebastian groaned. “Weasley, if you don’t let her go—”

“What? You’ll duel me?” He grinned, still holding me aloft.

Ominis sighed. “Honestly, I think he might.”

Garreth finally set me down, but not before pressing a kiss to my cheek, my nose, my forehead—

Until Sebastian groaned. “Alright, Weasley. That’s enough.”

“Is it?” Garreth smirked, pressing one more kiss to my temple just to be a menace.

Sebastian looked ready to hex him.

Ominis exhaled through his nose, shaking his head. “At least wait until she leaves before you start fighting.”

By the time all of them had hugged me, I had three pairs of hands still clinging to me.

Sebastian’s hand was locked around my waist.

Ominis’ fingers still brushed against my wrist.

Garreth had one arm slung over my shoulders.

And none of them were moving.

I sighed, exasperated. “You lot have to let me go at some point.”

Sebastian huffed. “Do we?”

Garreth grinned. “What if we just keep you here?”

Ominis tilted his head, a small smirk forming. “I can think of a few spells to ensure that.”

I laughed, even as I started prying them off one by one.

“I swear, you three are insufferable.”

Sebastian smirked. “And you love it.”

“Hopelessly, my dear,” Ominis added.

Garreth grinned. “So much it hurts, Sweets.”

I sighed fondly, shaking my head as I stepped away.

The Goodbye & The Silent Prayer

I turned toward my girls, who immediately surrounded me—a flurry of last-minute warnings, hugs, and quiet reassurances.

Anne squeezed my hands. “Come back soon.”

Poppy grinned. “Make sure Fig doesn’t wander off and get lost.”

Natty sighed. “Please don’t cause another Hogwarts-wide scandal while you’re gone.”

Samantha just gave me a long look before pulling me into a hug.

“If you die, I will revive you and kill you myself.”

I laughed, hugging her back. “Duly noted.”

With one last wave, I turned to Professor Fig, stepping toward the carriage.

As I climbed in, I glanced back—one final look at the castle, at my family, at the people I loved.

Sebastian, Ominis, and Garreth were still standing there, their faces unreadable.

My brothers stood behind them, arms crossed.

And my girls—watching me like they weren’t quite ready to let go either.

I swallowed, forcing a small smile.

And then the carriage lurched forward.

Hogwarts began to disappear behind us.

I exhaled, leaning against the seat, hands clenching in my lap.

And as I stared out at the open road ahead, I sent a silent prayer into the wind.

Please, let me come back in one piece.
___

The carriage came to a gentle stop, the sound of gravel crunching beneath its wheels as we pulled up to the edge of a rugged, overgrown valley.

I glanced out the window, eyes narrowing at the sight before me.

We were miles away from San Bakar’s Tower, carefully avoiding detection, hidden within the thick shadow of the surrounding cliffs.

The air here was heavy, thick with the scent of damp earth and the lingering traces of old magic—the kind that sent shivers across my skin, whispering of something ancient, untouched, waiting.

Professor Fig stepped down first, adjusting his coat as he surveyed the area.

I followed, boots sinking into the soft, uneven ground as I looked toward the distant silhouette of the tower.

Once a beacon of power, San Bakar’s Tower now stood like a fractured monument, its stone walls weathered by time, battle, and abandonment.

The tower itself was tall, narrow, spiraling high into the storm-colored sky, jagged edges marking where centuries of erosion and conflict had chipped away at its once-pristine structure.

Massive iron reinforcements wrapped around the base, long-rusted chains still clinging to the stone—remnants of an era where powerful magic had tried to seal something away.

But time had not been kind to this place.

Its once-grand entrance was now partially collapsed, the great wooden doors rotting against their rusted hinges, forced ajar by twisted roots and creeping ivy that had begun to reclaim the ruins.

And around it—

Goblins.

They roamed the perimeter, weapons gripped tightly, their sharp eyes flickering toward every shadow.

Their armor bore the unmistakable marks of Ranrok’s rebellion, though the insignias had faded, their cause long lost to history.

But they were still here, still clutching onto whatever secrets this tower held, as if unwilling to let it slip from their grasp.

I inhaled sharply, pressing myself lower behind the rocks.

“Goblins,” I murmured, my voice barely above a whisper.

Fig nodded, his expression grim.

“It seems the rumors were true.”

I watched them carefully, scanning the way they moved—guard rotations, weak points, openings.

This place truly had become their hideout.

A den of forgotten history, now buried beneath iron, rebellion, and desperation.

I exhaled, gripping my wand tightly.

This was going to be far more complicated than I thought.
__