Bravery can be dangerous

Summer vacation is... fun. At sixteen, Mary finds herself rarely at home. Her parents have stopped trying to reel her in, though they make the occasional comment about how they hardly see her anymore. She brushes it off, slipping out the door to meet Jenny. Always Jenny.

Jenny doesn't push her for details about Regulus, though Mary knows she’s seen through her vague explanations. Instead, Jenny pulls her into a tight hug one evening and declares, "Fuck boys like him. You need a real man."

"Like your boyfriend, I suppose?" Mary teases, rolling her eyes.

Jenny smirks, lighting a cigarette and passing it to Mary. "Exactly. That man treats me like a queen. And he’s not afraid to deck anyone who looks at me wrong."

Mary laughs, pretending not to notice the way her heart flutters when Jenny’s boyfriend gives her an approving nod or smirk. They’re effortlessly cool together, the kind of pair that could walk into a room and turn heads without trying. Mary knows she shouldn’t idolize them, but she can’t help it.

It’s not all reckless fun, though. One afternoon, when she heads to diagon alley with her mum for school shopping, she picks up a few books on healing. Madam Pomfrey had given her a list of recommendations before the term ended, and Mary had promised herself she’d check a few out. The spines are stiff, and the texts look a bit intimidating, but she flips through them later in her room, intrigued by the possibilities.

“Not bad,” she mutters to herself, tracing her fingers over a diagram of human anatomy in The Art of Magical Healing. There’s something thrilling about imagining herself in the future, standing in the hospital wing or St. Mungo's, making a real difference.

Still, for now, most of her days are spent with Jenny and her crowd, soaking up their confidence and charm like sunlight. Jenny keeps her grounded, and even though Mary’s still nursing the dull ache of heartbreak, she feels lighter with every approving glance or snarky quip from her friend.

Sixteen feels messy, exhilarating, and full of potential.

-

The train compartment is filled with the usual buzz of excitement as Mary slides the door open. "I'm back!" she exclaims, tossing her bag onto the luggage rack.

Lily grins. "Finally! Summer felt way too long without you lot."

Marlene and Dorcas cheer in agreement, and Peter waves from his seat beside Sybill, who gives Mary a bright smile. James and Sirius are already sprawled out, James leaning back like he owns the place, while Sirius flips through a Quidditch magazine.

The greetings are animated, voices overlapping as everyone catches up, but the mood shifts the moment Remus steps into the compartment. His eyes sweep over everyone before narrowing on Sirius.

"Well, isn’t this cozy," Remus mutters, his tone sharp.

Sirius's eyes are downcast and he just mumbles in response. "Miss me that much, Moony?"

Remus doesn’t respond, instead throwing a biting remark about "some people ruining everything."

Before the tension can escalate, James straightens up. "Alright, that’s enough," he says, his voice unusually firm. Everyone blinks at him; last year, he was firmly on Remus's side during whatever fallout had happened.

The atmosphere is thick, and for a moment, it feels like a fight might break out. But then Sirius speaks, his tone casual, almost flippant, as he offers an explanation for James's switch up.

"Got disowned over the summer."

The compartment falls silent, the air heavy with shock.

Sirius leans back, crossing his arms. "Yep. My dear mother finally had enough of me. Packed my things, blasted me off the family tree. It was all very dramatic. Spent most of the summer at James’s—Effie and Monty are the coolest." He shoots James a crooked grin.

James shrugs, but his expression is tight.

"And I’ll probably be staying there indefinitely," Sirius continues, his tone dripping with sarcasm. "Good riddance, really. Who wants to be part of that family anyway?"

No one knows what to say. His voice is bitter, despite the attempt at nonchalance.

Before anyone can offer pity, Sirius raises a hand. "Don’t bother. I don’t need your sympathy. Honestly, I’m better off without them."

The silence stretches, but no one pushes him further. Eventually, Remus sits down without another word, his face unreadable.

The rest of the ride is filled with lighthearted chatter, though it feels a bit forced. Mary does her best to keep things lively, joking about their upcoming classes and the chaos of Hogsmeade weekends. At one point, she mentions something she’s been thinking about for weeks.

“I’m dropping the Slug Club,” she declares.

Dorcas blinks. "Really? I thought you liked it."

Mary shrugs. "Not my thing. Too formal. I’d rather be doing something useful."

Lily looks at her curiously but doesn’t press.

By the time the train pulls into Hogsmeade station, the tension has eased slightly, though Mary can’t help but notice the way Sirius’s grin doesn’t quite reach his eyes, or how Remus keeps sneaking glances at him when he thinks no one’s looking. It’s going to be an interesting year, she decides.

-

That night Mary lies in her bed, staring up at the canopy of the familiar dorm room. She pulls the blanket up to her chest, the soft glow of the moonlight filtering through the curtains casting faint patterns on the walls.

It hits her all at once, the weight of everything.

They’re growing up, aren’t they? Soon, their time at Hogwarts will be over, and they’ll have to step into the real world. She thinks of Sirius, his bitter smile earlier on the train, the way he shrugged off his family’s rejection. Disowned. She can’t even fathom it.

People like them—like his family—are everywhere.

She swallows hard, a tightness forming in her chest. Every day, the news seems to grow darker. Articles about disappearances, deaths, war- him.
Of people suffering—people like her. Like her friends.

She clenches her fists under the blanket. It wasn’t fair. None of it.

Forcing herself to take a deep breath, she shakes her head. No. She couldn’t think about this now. What good would it do?

The room is quiet, the sounds of her friends breathing softly around her. The sound is comforting. Mary closes her eyes, willing herself to stop thinking. She needs to sleep.

-

The warm, incense-laden atmosphere of the Divination classroom feels almost suffocating as Mary swirls the last bit of her tea, the leaves settling into an indecipherable clump at the bottom of her cup. Across from her, Sybill is positively vibrating with enthusiasm, leaning forward to peer into the cup with a dramatic flourish.

“Ah, fascinating!” Sybill exclaims, her voice dripping with the mystery she so loves to cultivate.

Mary suppresses a grin and glances at Emmeline, who raises an eyebrow at her. They share an amused look before Mary turns her attention back to Sybill.

“What do you see, oh great Seer?” Mary teases, placing her chin in her hand.

Sybill doesn’t miss a beat. “A winding path... an obstacle... and—oh!” She pauses, gasping theatrically. “A secret heart!”

Mary snorts, unable to keep her composure. “A secret heart? Sounds like one of those rubbish romance novels Marlene hides under her bed.”

Emmeline chuckles quietly, but Sybill is undeterred. She sits back, clasping her hands together. “Mock all you want, but the leaves never lie. A heart hidden in shadow, yearning to be seen...”

“Or maybe it’s just tea leaves, Syb,” Mary quips, earning another stifled laugh from Emmeline.

Sybill huffs but doesn’t seem offended. Instead, her tone shifts, lightening into something more casual. “Speaking of hearts, Peter and I are going on a date next Hogsmeade weekend,” she announces proudly, brushing a strand of hair from her face. “Have you got a date, Mary? We could double!”

Mary leans back in her chair, shaking her head with a faint smile. “No dates for me. I’m taking a break.”

For a brief moment, Emmeline glances at her, something unreadable flashing in her eyes, but Mary doesn’t notice.

Sybill pouts dramatically. “Oh, come on, Mary. What happened to the queen of dates?”

Mary waves her off. “I just need some time, that’s all.”

Sybill shrugs, her disappointment quickly replaced by excitement about her own plans. “Well, if you change your mind, let me know!”

Mary smiles faintly, her thoughts wandering. She swirls her tea again, watching the leaves shift, but this time she doesn’t bother trying to interpret them.

-

The hospital wing smells faintly of antiseptic and fresh linens as Mary pushes open the double doors, her face alight with giddy excitement. Madam Pomfrey glances up from her desk, her brow furrowing slightly at Mary’s whirlwind energy.

“Here to help, or just to cause trouble?” Pomfrey asks, though her tone is more amused than stern.

“Both,” Mary replies cheekily, grabbing a stack of clean sheets and setting off toward the nearest bed. As she begins tugging off the old linens, her words spill out like water bursting through a dam. “You will not believe what just happened!”

Pomfrey raises an eyebrow but doesn’t interrupt, used to Mary’s chatter by now.

“James,” Mary begins, emphasizing his name as if Pomfrey needed any clarification. “You know how he’s been trying to get Lily to go out with him for ages?”

Pomfrey hums noncommittally, though there’s a flicker of interest in her expression.

“Well,” Mary continues, shaking out a fresh sheet, “he did it again. Right in the middle of the common room, dramatic as ever. I swear, he was practically on one knee! Everyone was laughing. And, honestly, I thought, here we go again. Another rejection incoming. Lily would roll her eyes, call him insufferable, the usual.”

She tucks the sheet neatly under the mattress, her grin widening. “But then—” She pauses, turning toward Pomfrey for emphasis. “She said yes! Just like that!”

Pomfrey blinks, clearly not expecting that twist. “Lily Evans? Agreed to a date with James Potter?”

Mary nods fervently, grabbing a pillowcase. “I know! I thought I was imagining it at first. But nope, she actually said yes. Everyone was stunned. I mean, I’m happy for them—Merlin, so happy—but also, what?!”

She shakes her head in disbelief, plopping the freshly made pillow back onto the bed. “It’s like... maybe all those years of persistence actually paid off? Or maybe he caught her at the perfect moment. Either way, I cannot wait to see how this goes.”

Pomfrey smiles faintly, amused by Mary’s enthusiasm. “Well, good for them. But less gossiping, more working, Miss Macdonald. The hospital wing doesn’t tidy itself.”

Mary grins but dutifully picks up the pace. “Of course, Madam Pomfrey.”

After a moment of working she starts again. "But honestly, they would not have gotten this far if not for me."

Pomfrey sighs fondly and sets her quill down. A bit of gossip never hurt anyone.

-

The dungeon classroom is dimly lit, with the occasional bubbling cauldron casting flickering shadows across the stone walls. Mary glances around the room, her fingers deftly chopping up valerian roots. It’s easy to see that not many of her classmates are actually paying attention to the potion in front of them.

On the opposite side of the room, Marlene leans close to Dorcas, their heads nearly touching. Mary’s stomach twists slightly. They’re clearly more interested in whispering to each other than perfecting their Draught of Peace. When was the last time her best friend whispered jokes into her ear? Mary frowns, trying not to let it bother her.

At another table, James is blatantly ignoring Peter’s frustrated attempts at stabilizing their potion, his chin propped on his hand as he stares dreamily across the room at Lily. Mary stifles a laugh. She doesn’t need details from Lily about how the date went—it’s written all over James’s lovesick expression.

Lily, for her part, is focused intently on her potion, brow furrowed in concentration as she measures out precise drops of liquid into her cauldron. Next to her, Remus mirrors her diligence, his quill jotting down notes with meticulous precision.

Mary sighs and looks to her own potion partner: Sirius. He’s leaning back on his stool, stirring their cauldron absentmindedly with one hand while staring across the room at Remus. His expression isn’t lovesick, though. It’s... complicated.

Mary groans internally. She’s had enough of this.

“Oi, Black,” she mutters, nudging him with her elbow. “Stop staring. You’re going to mess up the stirring pattern.”

Sirius snaps out of it, blinking at her. “What?”

“You heard me,” Mary says, voice low but firm. “Cut it out. Whatever you did, just apologize already. You’re useless in class like this, and I’m not about to let you ruin my potion grade.”

Sirius scowls, looking back down at the swirling contents of their cauldron. “It’s not that simple, Macdonald,” he mutters. “I messed up. Badly.”

Mary snorts, dumping the chopped valerian into the cauldron with a flick of her wrist. “So what? You going to sit here moping forever? Take some bloody responsibility for once.”

Sirius’s jaw tightens, his dark eyes glinting with something between frustration and guilt. He doesn’t respond immediately, just stirs the potion in silence.

Mary shakes her head, rolling her eyes as she adjusts the flame under their cauldron. “You’re hopeless,” she mutters, focusing back on the potion.

Next to her, Sirius’s hand pauses on the stirrer for a moment. Then he resumes, quieter, his expression thoughtful.

-

The library is warm and quiet, the soft scratching of quills on parchment and the occasional shuffle of pages filling the air. Mary leans over the table, her hands gesturing animatedly as she talks to Benjy.

“So if you focus on applying a numbing charm first, it gives you a window to deal with the injury properly,” Mary explains, her voice low but passionate. “I tried it on a practice dummy during the summer, and it worked like a charm.”

Benjy nods thoughtfully, his quill poised over his notebook. “That makes sense. But wouldn’t that delay could be risky if there’s an infection involved?”

Mary tilts her head, considering his point. “Maybe. But that’s why you’d use a sterilizing spell alongside it. That’s what Madam Pomfrey recommended when I asked her about—”

Emmeline, sitting next to them, interjects with a soft smile. “I think it’s a good strategy. It’s about managing pain and time, right? But maybe it depends on the injury.”

Mary grins. “Exactly!”

Across the table, Lily and Dorcas are hunched over their shared notes, murmuring about their Transfiguration essay.

“I still don’t get how McGonagall expects us to transfigure something intangible,” Lily mutters, tapping her quill against her parchment.

Dorcas smirks. “It’s probably a test of creativity. If you manage to do it, she’ll pass out in shock.”

Lily snorts, shaking her head as she continues to write.

Meanwhile, Remus sits at the edge of the table, silent and focused on his Arithmancy textbook. His shoulders are hunched, and there’s a faint crease between his brows. He hasn’t said much recently, and his withdrawn mood hasn’t gone unnoticed.

The group falls into a comfortable rhythm of work, interrupted only when the library doors creak open. Marlene strides in, her scarf loosely draped around her neck, her cheeks flushed from the chill outside.

“Dorcas,” she calls softly, her eyes lighting up when she spots her.

Dorcas immediately gathers her things, shoving her parchment and quills into her bag. “Coming,” she says, smiling as she heads toward Marlene.

Mary watches the exchange, forcing a small smile as the two leave the library together, laughing about something Mary doesn’t catch.

Her stomach tightens. She’s happy for Marlene—she really is. She's the best and deserves all the friends in the world! But... she can’t help feeling like she’s been left behind. Marlene and Dorcas have been spending so much time together recently. It used to be her and Marlene sharing inside jokes and sneaking out of the common room after curfew. Now, Mary feels like she’s playing second fiddle.

“You alright?” Emmeline asks gently, noticing Mary’s distracted expression.

Mary blinks, plastering on a smile. “Yeah, just tired. Long week.”

Emmeline nods, her gaze lingering for a moment before returning to her notes.

A few minutes later, Benjy stretches his arms over his head and groans. “Alright, I need a break before my brain melts.”

The others murmur in agreement, packing up their things. Mary shoves her books into her bag, pushing her lingering thoughts about Marlene aside. She wouldn’t let it ruin her evening.

The walk to Gryffindor Tower is quiet, the sound of their footsteps echoing softly through the corridors. Mary glances at Remus out of the corner of her eye. His expression is tight, like he’s lost in thought, but she doesn’t press him. Lily, on the other hand, seems more relaxed than she’s been all evening, though she hasn’t said much either.

When they step through the portrait hole, the warmth of the common room envelops them. The fire crackles, casting golden light over the familiar space. A few students linger, chatting or finishing last-minute assignments.

As they head toward the staircase, Sirius appears seemingly out of nowhere, his dark hair falling into his face and his hands shoved deep into his pockets. He steps directly in front of them, his gaze fixed on Remus.

“Can we talk?” he asks, his voice quiet but steady.

Remus freezes, his eyes narrowing slightly as he studies Sirius. For a moment, it seems like he’s going to refuse. Mary holds her breath, and Lily shifts uneasily beside her.

Finally, after a tense pause, Remus nods curtly. “Alright.”

Without another word, Sirius turns and walks toward the portrait hole, glancing back only once to make sure Remus is following. Remus exhales sharply before trailing after him, leaving Mary and Lily standing at the foot of the stairs.

“Well,” Lily says after a moment, breaking the silence. “That’s... something.”

Mary raises an eyebrow. “Let’s just hope they don’t hex each other.”

They share a small, knowing smile before heading up the staircase to their dormitory.

Once inside, they collapse onto their beds, the tension of the day finally lifting. Mary kicks off her shoes and stretches out, staring at the canopy above her. For a while, neither of them speaks, the only sounds the rustling of fabric and the muffled chatter from below.

Then, out of nowhere, Lily says, “I like him.”

Mary blinks and props herself up on her elbows. “What?”

Lily turns her head, her cheeks a little pink. “James. I like him.”

For a second, Mary just stares, and then a grin spreads across her face. “Oh, Merlin! Lily! This is huge!” She sits up fully, her voice bubbling with excitement. “Do you mean like... casually? Or like... ‘I want to be his girlfriend’ kind of like?”

Lily groans, grabbing a pillow and hurling it at Mary, who ducks with a laugh.

“Shut up,” Lily mutters, though her lips twitch into a reluctant smile.

“I’m just saying!” Mary teases, clutching the pillow to her chest. “You’ve been avoiding him for years. And now you’re telling me you fancy him?”

Lily rolls her eyes but doesn’t deny it.

Mary flops back onto her bed, still grinning. “This is the best news ever. I’m so happy for you, Lils. You’re going to make him lose his mind.”

Lily huffs a laugh, throwing an arm over her eyes. “You’re ridiculous.”

“And you’re in love,” Mary sings, her tone playful.

“Go to sleep,” Lily retorts, but her voice is light.

Mary snuggles into her blankets, her heart warm with happiness for her friends. It was about time something good happened.

-

The library is quieter than usual, the soft rustle of pages and scratch of quills the only sounds breaking the stillness. Mary sits cross-legged on the floor next to the low table, her Defense Against the Dark Arts textbook open but largely ignored as she waves her quill in frustration.

“I’m telling you, I’m doomed,” she groans, leaning back dramatically. “Remus is the only one who can make this subject make sense, and now he’s too busy... being glued to Sirius’s side to help me.”

Lily, seated across from her, raises an eyebrow but doesn’t look up from her Potions notes. “You could always ask him later.”

“Later? I need this now,” Mary whines, dropping her quill onto the book with a defeated sigh.

Lily gives a faint smile but remains focused, the corner of her parchment curling slightly under the weight of her meticulous handwriting.

“Next weekend, then,” Mary presses.

“I’m busy,” Lily says, her tone casual but with a hint of something warmer.

Mary narrows her eyes. “With James, I’m guessing?”

Lily flushes slightly and glances up. “So what if I am?”

“Oh, nothing. Just confirming,” Mary teases with a grin.

Before Lily can retaliate, Emmeline speaks up, her voice tentative. “I could help you with Defense.”

Mary blinks in surprise, turning toward her. Emmeline sits at the edge of the table, her Herbology book open but untouched, her cheeks slightly pink.

“Really?” Mary asks.

Emmeline nods. “I mean, I’m not as good as Remus, but I’m decent. On one condition, though.”

“What’s that?”

“You help me with Herbology.”

Mary grins, relieved. “Done. Merlin, thank you, Em. You’re a lifesaver.”

Emmeline gives a small smile, but her eyes flick toward Benjy, who has been watching the exchange with an amused expression.

“What’s that look for?” Mary asks, noticing the teasing grin on Benjy’s face.

“Nothing,” he says, raising his hands in mock innocence. “Just nice to see the mutual aid happening.”

Emmeline shoots him a warning glance, but Mary, oblivious, waves him off.

“Yeah, yeah. Laugh it up, Fenwick. You’ll be jealous when I actually pass Defense.”

Benjy chuckles but doesn’t press the matter, leaning back in his chair. Emmeline, however, avoids Mary’s gaze, focusing a little too intently on her Herbology notes.

Mary, still clueless, flips open her Defense textbook with renewed determination. “Alright, let’s do this. Em, you’re my new tutor now. Don’t let me down.”

Emmeline laughs softly, her cheeks still pink, and Mary doesn’t notice the knowing glance Benjy gives her again.

-

The Gryffindor common room buzzes softly with the low hum of conversation and the occasional crackle from the fireplace. Mary sprawls in an armchair, her legs draped over one armrest, fiddling with the fringe of her sweater. Across the room, James and Lily sit on the couch, clearly trying to focus on their game of chess but failing miserably.

Lily blushes every time James leans over to whisper something, and James’s grin only widens each time. The bliss of the relationship start. Mary rolls her eyes.

On the floor near the fire, Sybill lounges beside Peter, showing off her collection of crystals. She holds each one up dramatically, explaining their properties, while Peter adjusts her glasses with a soft smile.

And then there’s Sirius and Remus. Mary doesn’t even want to look—she knows exactly what’s happening. Sirius is probably tracing patterns under Remus’s jumper, or resting his head on Remus’s shoulder while Remus absently runs his fingers through Sirius’s hair or slides his hand into the back pocket of Sirius's trousers.

She huffs. Sickening.

The portrait hole swings open, and Mary perks up immediately. Marlene steps through, and Mary’s face lights up. “Finally! Some sanity!”

But then she notices Dorcas stepping in right behind Marlene. The two are laughing softly about something, their heads tilted close together. Mary straightens, groaning dramatically.

“Let me guess,” she says, exasperated. “You two have been off doing your own thing again. Honestly, you could’ve asked me to join! I’m dying here—surrounded by couples.”

Marlene pauses mid-step, glances at Dorcas, and then looks down.

Mary furrows her brow, her gaze following Marlene’s. That’s when she notices it: Marlene and Dorcas are holding hands.

Mary’s mouth falls open. “Oh.”

Marlene shifts awkwardly, Dorcas giving her hand a reassuring squeeze.

“Oh!” Mary repeats, louder this time, sitting up straight in her chair. “You two?!”

Marlene flushes but doesn’t let go of Dorcas’s hand. “Yeah,” she says, her voice steady despite the redness in her cheeks. “Me and Dorcas.”

Mary stares, her eyes darting between their intertwined hands and their faces. “How—when—what?!”

Dorcas smirks. “You really didn’t notice?”

Mary splutters. “I mean—no?! Marlene’s never even had a boyfriend, but—oh. Ohhh. That makes so much sense now.”

Marlene gives her an amused look. “Glad you’re catching up, McDonald.”

Mary groans, sinking back into her chair dramatically. “Merlin’s beard. I’m officially surrounded by sickly sweet couples. You’re all disgusting.”

Marlene grins, pulling Dorcas toward an empty couch. “Guess you’ll have to get used to it.”

Mary glares at her, but there’s a hint of a smile tugging at her lips. “You’re lucky I love you, McKinnon. And you too, Meadowes.”

Dorcas laughs, throwing an arm around Marlene’s shoulders as they settle onto the couch. Mary leans back in her chair, shaking her head.

Bloody hell, she thinks. When did everyone around here get so paired off?

-

Mary stares up at the canopy of her bed, the darkened dormitory quiet except for the occasional rustle of sheets or soft snores. The thoughts swirling in her mind refuse to let her rest.

Marlene and Dorcas.

She frowns, shifting onto her back. How had she not noticed before? Sure, Marlene was always close with Dorcas, but holding hands? The way they smiled at each other like no one else existed? It was obvious now.

And yet... it left her feeling strange. Stupid, even. She'd always been so supportive of Sirius and Remus, never batted an eye at their public displays of affection. So why did this make her feel so... unsettled?

Does she hate lesbians?—she thinks to herself, horrified at the idea. But no—she knows that isn’t it. She doesn't care that Dorcas and Marlene are together. In fact, she’s happy for them.

It’s something else entirely.

She closes her eyes and exhales slowly, trying to clear her thoughts. Women. Liking women? She never really thought about it. Why would she? She’s dated boys—plenty of them. They were fun, they made her laugh, and sure, the makeout sessions weren’t bad.

But women?

Her mind drifts unwillingly. Marlene, with her leather jackets, devil-may-care attitude, and sultry grin. Sexy in an untouchable rockstar way.

Lily, with her fiery red hair, sharp wit, and laugh that felt like sunlight breaking through the clouds. Beautiful, radiant.

Dorcas, always so composed, so mysterious, like she knew every secret in the world and was amused that you didn’t.

Mary swallows, frowning harder. But she’s not attracted to them. Not like that.

Her thoughts shift to Alice Fortescue, who graduated last year. Sporty, confident, a total menace on the Quidditch field. Mary remembers the way Alice would flash that easy smile, smart but never boastful. Good-looking, too.

Her stomach flips unexpectedly.

And then there’s Jenny.

Mary blinks. Jenny?

Jenny, with her loud laugh and even louder opinions. Jenny, who had a knack for saying the exact thing Mary needed to hear. Jenny, who was effortlessly cool with her band shirts and sharp eyeliner. Jenny, who had been there for her after Regulus, who had told her to forget boys like him and find someone who deserved her.

Her cheeks burn as she remembers how Jenny would lean in close, her voice low and conspiratorial, and flash her that approving smirk. How her heart always seemed to skip a beat at the sight.

“Oh, Merlin,” Mary mutters, rolling onto her side and squeezing her eyes shut.

She likes guys. She likes guys. She’s always liked guys. But maybe... just maybe... girls are an option, too.

She doesn’t know what to do with that thought. So, for now, she buries it, hoping sleep will bring her some clarity.

-

The wind is biting on the Astronomy Tower, the chill nipping at Mary’s skin as she practices the wand movements in the cold. She’s frustrated—really frustrated. For weeks now, her friends have been paired off, leaving her to feel like a third wheel in every situation. Sirius and Remus can’t keep their hands off each other, James and Lily have barely stopped smiling since their first date, and even Marlene and Dorcas are glued together like a couple of magnets.

It’s not that I’m bitter, she thinks, her grip tightening around her wand. I just wish they'd all stop being so... lovey-dovey. She doesn't want to third-wheel anymore.

She flicks her wand in the air again, trying to perfect the movement for the Shield Charm, but the results are still lacking. The shield flares up, but it’s weak—barely enough to deflect an incoming hex.

“You’re almost there,” Emmeline’s voice says from behind her.

Mary turns slightly, startled, as Emmeline steps in close behind her. The warmth from Emmeline’s body makes her pause, and then she feels a soft touch over her hand as Emmeline gently guides her movements. Her voice trembles slightly as she gives instructions, her nose brushing the top of Mary’s head as she hovers just behind her.

“Focus on keeping the motion smooth, but firm,” Emmeline murmurs.

Mary’s heart skips a beat, though she’s too distracted by her frustration to notice how close Emmeline is, or how her breath feels warm against her neck. She frowns and sighs in exasperation, making the wand movement again but still failing to get it right.

“I can’t do it,” she mutters, almost to herself. “I'm too.. distracted! Annoyed!"

Emmeline hums. "Want to talk about it?'

Mary grumbles. "It’s just... nothing feels right. I’m so sick of feeling like I’m in the way. Everyone’s off with their boyfriends and girlfriends, and here I am. Alone, practicing spells in the freezing cold.”

Emmeline’s grip tightens on her hand for a moment, pulling her gently back from her spiraling thoughts. “You could easily get a date, Mary. You’re... well, you’re beautiful, and smart, and funny. Why don’t you just... go for it?”

Mary shakes her head, rolling her eyes. “Nah. I’m focusing on my studies. I don’t need anyone distracting me.” She turns her focus back to her wand.

She’s not quite sure if she’s trying to convince herself or Emmeline, but she keeps her head down, unwilling to let herself get any more vulnerable.
Instead, she changes the topic. “So, are you seeing anyone, Em?”

There’s a brief, almost imperceptible hesitation before Emmeline stammers, “Uh, no. No one... really. I just... I don’t have time for it. Not with... well, everything else.” She quickly looks away, clearly embarrassed, and steps back from Mary.

Mary, sensing the awkwardness, decides to drop it, though her curiosity stirs. Instead, she pulls out her Herbology textbook and flips it open.

“... Right. Well, um,” she says, trying to lighten the mood. “I could go over the Herbology stuff with you. You’ve been struggling a bit with the basics, right?”

Emmeline gives her a grateful smile, nodding. “Thanks, Mary. I really do appreciate it. I swear, I just can’t remember half of the plant names, let alone the proper care for them.”

Mary grins back, feeling a bit lighter. “No problem. Let’s start with the basics, then. I’m sure I can make it make sense.”

-

James’s house is warm and inviting, decorated with twinkling fairy lights and festive wreaths, and the scent of mulled wine and cinnamon fills the air. The moment they step inside, Mary is immediately enveloped in the comforting, familiar feeling of a proper family Christmas. James’s parents, Effie and Monty, welcome them all with open arms, as though they’ve known each of them for years.

Effie is warm, with a kind smile and a strength that Mary can’t help but admire. Her Indian cooking fills the house with delicious aromas—rich, spicy curries, fragrant rice, and freshly baked naan. Mary’s stomach growls just from the scent alone, and when they all sit down to eat, it’s clear Effie’s food is the highlight of the evening. She’s an incredible cook, and Mary can’t help but ask for seconds.

Monty is equally charming, with a boisterous laugh and a knack for making everyone feel at ease. He’s constantly cracking jokes, and his playful teasing of Sirius has everyone in stitches. To Mary’s surprise, Monty treats Sirius like a son already. He’s so open and kind, and it makes her heart ache a little for Sirius, who, for all his bravado, looks a little lost when Monty pulls him into an affectionate side hug. The bond between them is clear, and it makes Mary realize just how much Sirius has been missing out on with his own family.

Lily, of course, is adored by the Potters. Effie gushes over her, calling her the perfect match for James, while Monty keeps telling her how lucky James is to have her. It’s nice to see Lily basking in the warmth of this family.

As the evening progresses, everyone gathers around the fireplace to exchange gifts. It’s a mix of laughter, surprise, and heartfelt moments. Mary, who had only brought small, thoughtful gifts for her friends, is touched by the gifts she receives as well.

Sirius and Remus exchange a quiet, meaningful glance before Sirius hands Remus a small package. Remus grins widely, his eyes sparkling as he carefully unwraps it to reveal a leather-bound journal. Remus hugs him tightly, and Mary can see the depth of their affection for each other in that simple gesture.

The laughter continues, and the conversations flow easily as everyone settles into the holiday spirit. The tension that usually hangs in the air between them all seems to melt away in this cozy setting.

Mary feels a warmth spread through her as she watches her friends, laughing and sharing stories, enjoying the comfort of being surrounded by people who care for them. This Christmas feels like a turning point. For once, she’s not focused on feeling like an outsider or worrying about everything else. Right now, it’s just the people she cares about most, and she’s happy.

As the evening winds down, they all retire to the living room to relax, the fire crackling merrily in the hearth. Effie and Monty slip away to the kitchen to finish preparing dessert, and the rest of the group lounges on the couches, content and happy. Mary, exhausted from the excitement, leans her head against the back of the couch, a small smile on her face. It’s been a long year, full of ups and downs, but as she looks around at the people gathered here—friends who have become like family—she can’t help but feel that maybe, just maybe, things are starting to fall into place.

-

Mary stands by the hospital wing's cabinet, carefully organizing vials of potion while Madam Pomfrey jots down notes at her desk. The ward is quiet today, with only a few beds occupied by students recovering from minor injuries and ailments. Mary relishes the calm—it’s the perfect opportunity to talk with Madam Pomfrey about what’s been weighing on her mind.

“You’ve been quite a help this term, Mary,” Pomfrey says, glancing up from her clipboard. “It’s not often I get a student as dedicated as you.”

Mary smiles, feeling a surge of pride. “Thanks, Madam Pomfrey. I really enjoy it, actually. I’ve been thinking a lot about—well—training to be a healer after school.”

Pomfrey looks up, her expression softening. “A noble path. It’s not an easy one, mind you, but you’ve got the aptitude for it. I’ve seen that in the way you work.”

Encouraged, Mary sets down a tray of potions and moves closer. “What do I need to do to get there? I mean, really prepare for it? I’ve been reading the books you recommended last year, but... is there more?”

Pomfrey leans back in her chair, tapping her quill thoughtfully. “Your O.W.L.s were good—solid, respectable marks. But the N.E.W.T.s are the real test. If you’re serious about becoming a healer, focus on Potions, Herbology, and Defense Against the Dark Arts. And, of course, Charms. You’ll need high marks in all of them.”

Mary nods, mentally ticking off the subjects. “I’m working hard in those, especially Defense Against The Dark Arts. I got a friend to tutor me.”

Pomfrey chuckles softly. “You’re right to take the initiative. Beyond your academics, you’ll need hands-on experience. What you’re doing here with me is a good start. St. Mungo’s offers programs for promising students.”

“St. Mungo’s?” Mary echoes, her heart skipping a beat. “Do you think I’d have a chance?”

“Absolutely,” Pomfrey says firmly. “I can write you a recommendation when the time comes. They’re always looking for sharp, dedicated minds. And you, Mary, have a knack for keeping a cool head under pressure. That’s invaluable.”

Mary’s cheeks flush with a mix of gratitude and determination. “Thank you, Madam Pomfrey. I—I won’t let you down.”

Pomfrey waves her hand dismissively, though her expression is fond. “It’s not about letting me down, my dear. This is your future. You’ll be the one working long hours, dealing with patients, and making life-saving decisions. If it’s what you truly want, you’ll need to be sure. Healer training is as demanding as it is rewarding.”

Mary considers this, her excitement tempered by the gravity of Pomfrey’s words. “I think it is what I want. Helping people, making a difference... it feels right.”

Pomfrey smiles. “Good. Then keep at it. And don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it—whether from me, your professors, or even your friends. It’s a long journey, but you’re not alone.”

Mary nods, feeling a swell of gratitude for the steady support of the woman before her. As they return to their work, Mary’s resolve solidifies. Becoming a healer might be a challenge, but it’s a challenge she’s ready to face.

-

The cold breeze of the Astronomy Tower nips at their cheeks, but Mary and Emmeline barely notice. A small, battered book on Herbology lies forgotten on the ground, replaced by the thrill of magic practice. Mary, wand in hand, squares her shoulders, determination etched across her face.

“You’ve got this,” Emmeline says, her voice soft but confident. “Just like we practiced. Focus.”

Mary nods, determined. She exhales slowly, aiming her wand as Emmeline casts a simple stunning spell.

“Protego!” Mary shouts.

The shimmering blue shield bursts forth, solid and steady, deflecting the spell with a satisfying crackle of energy. For a moment, Mary just stares in disbelief, before realizing what she’s done.

“I did it!” she exclaims, lowering her wand in awe.

Emmeline’s face lights up, and before Mary can react, Emmeline rushes forward, throwing her arms around her. The force of the hug lifts Mary off her feet as Emmeline spins them both in a giddy circle.

“You did it!” Emmeline laughs, her voice ringing with pride and joy. “I knew you could!”

Mary lets out a breathless laugh, her arms wrapping tightly around Emmeline's neck in return. The stars above them blur as they spin, and for a moment, everything feels light and perfect.

When Emmeline finally sets her down, their faces are flushed—partly from the cold, partly from the excitement. They both step back slightly, catching their breath, and suddenly the air feels different.

“That was... brilliant,” Mary says, her voice quieter now, a hint of embarrassment creeping in as she tucks a loose strand of hair behind her ear.

Emmeline clears her throat, her cheeks pink. “Well, I just showed you the steps. You did all the hard work.”

Mary grins, her earlier hesitation fading. “Yeah, but you’re a good teacher. I wouldn’t have figured it out without you.”

Emmeline ducks her head, smiling shyly, and for a moment, neither of them says anything. The night stretches out around them, cool and quiet, the stars twinkling overhead.
Then Mary, ever eager to break awkward tension, gestures to the scattered books.

“Back to Herbology?” she offers.

Emmeline nods, her smile soft. “Yeah. Let’s.”

As they settle back onto the cold stone floor, Mary can’t help but feel a warm glow inside her—not just from the successful spell, but from the easy companionship of the girl beside her.

-

The train compartment buzzes with energy as Mary and her friends settle into their seats for the ride home. The Hogwarts Express rumbles steadily beneath them, a comforting rhythm that makes the lively chatter feel all the more familiar.

"I’m telling you, it’s going to be Lily," James declares with a wide grin, his arm casually slung around Lily’s shoulders. "Head Girl, right here."

Lily rolls her eyes, but there’s a fond smile tugging at her lips. "Don’t jinx it, Potter. I haven’t even gotten my letter yet."

"You don’t need a letter," James insists. "You’re brilliant. And responsible. And perfect."

Mary groans dramatically, leaning into Marlene. "Someone shut him up before we all choke on the sugar."

The conversation shifts to the daunting reality of next year.

"NEWTs are going to kill us," Dorcas says, leaning back against the window with a groan. "I’m already stressed just thinking about it." She throws a fond glare Marlene's way before she can make a comment about helping her girlfriend 'de-stress'.

"Yeah, no more time for slacking off," Lily agrees, though there’s a touch of reluctance in her voice. "We’re going to have to study constantly if we want to do well."

"Constantly?" Sirius pulls his face away from Remus's jumper. "That’s not happening. We’ll make time for parties."

"And hangouts," Marlene adds firmly.

"And Quidditch," James says, nudging Peter.

"And dates," Sybill chimes in with a dreamy smile, leaning into Peter, who flushes but doesn’t move away.

Mary grins, looking around at her friends. "Alright, how about this? We promise to balance it all out. We’ll study, sure, but we’ll also have fun. Deal?"

"Deal," they chorus, their voices overlapping in a cheerful mess.

For a moment, the worries about NEWTs and the pressures of next year fade into the background. The compartment is filled with laughter and teasing, their promises filling them with a sense of unity.

They might be growing up, Mary thinks, but they’ll always have each other.