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Chapter Text

After the battle of Hogwarts, you spent a lot of time with your parents. You were from a long line of pure-blood healers, known as the Weavers as such after a war, healers were needed. For days on end you were side-by-side with your family as an apprentice healer. You were not an official healer as you technically had not graduated from hogwarts.

In the aftermath of the war it was very evident that the wizarding world has a surplus of under qualified witches and wizards and a high need for more actually qualified witches and wizards.

The wonderful solution was proposed by the Ministry of Magic. A temporary 8th year to catch up the 7th years that did not get a complete education. A one-time all around great idea, right?

Not exactly. The Ministry did not provide any solutions or protections for the Slytherin students, only restrictions. Once a week Aurors would come and interview teachers and Slytherin students to ensure they are all in line.

You can't imagine how that would ever go wrong. Not one thought.

~

You spent most of the summer working with your family. You still had all your books from 7th year so your parents didn't see a need to go out of their way to get you school supplies. It wasn't until the restart of school was one week away did you get a visit from the Weasley Matriarch.

Mrs. Molly walks in with piles of food in tow, she often made meals for the staff at St. Mungos when her eyes landed on you.

"Good afternoon Mrs. Molly." you say.

"Good afternoon dear, are you still working here?" Mrs. Molly looked for your parents not seeing them yet.

"Yes ma'am I am" You smile.

Clearly unamused, Mrs. Molly searches for your parents and talks to them at length before they approach you as a group. They clearly had come up with some sort of plan and were trying to figure out how to tell you.

"What is it?" you ask.

"Well we just were informed that school starts in a week, we've lost track of time and Mrs. Molly has said she can take you to the train." Your parents were trying to push you off on her, and you couldn't complain. Your families have been friends for a while. And you were good friends with Hermione. You just nod and pack your stuff up.

You say goodbye to your family and leave St. Mungos with Mrs. Molly. Even though you floo back to the Burrow Mrs. Molly gives you a flood of questions;

"How long have you been healing with your parents?"
-Since the war starting

"Do you like being a Healer?"
-I think so.

"Is that what you will do?"
- I think so, it's what everyone in the family’s done.

"I've heard about you from Ron."
- I've done a couple of studying sessions with Hermione. I met Ron that way..

Seeming pleased with her interrogation you arrived at the Burrow.

Ron seems pleased to see you “Hey I see Mum even dragged you here too!”

“What do you mean “me too”?” you ask.

“Well Hermione and Harry are already here, but I mean they practically live here.”

You nod, glad to know at least someone you know is here.

“Can you guide me to the bathroom Ron,” You gesture to the dirty clothes you were wearing from the hospital, “I’d like to clean up”

“Sure, I’ll see if Gin has anything you can wear until your trunk gets here, George and Mum just left to get it.”

You thank him as he leads you to the bathroom and lets you clean up and get a good shower in. Cleaning the dirt and filth of the hospital along with unidentified bodily fluids, you felt wonderfully clean. You heard a light knock as you were getting out, you wrap yourself up with a towel and open the door slightly.

It was Hermione, “Here's some spare clothes until you get here.” Hermione gives you a neatly folded stack of clothes.

“Thanks Hermione, I appreciate it.” You say as you take the clothes, You change into Hermione's Gryffindor Jumper and some jeans. You laugh as you see yourself in the mirror, a Ravenclaw wearing a Gryffindor Jumper. It was the first time in a while you thought of yourself as a “Ravenclaw” and not as a “Healer Apprentice”.

You leave the bathroom with your dirty clothes in hand, you see George pushing your trunk into a room near the bathroom. You follow him and find out it's Ginny’s room. Hermione and Ginny are already there. In the room you see three beds side by side, you assume it's for the three of you. Ginny and George were already bickering about how he cant be in her room and him shooting back he was helping.

You walk over to your trunk and place the dirty clothes in a separate bag, you grab your Ravenclaw Jumper and throw it at Hermione. “Until you get yours back” You say.

Hermione smiles and immediately pulls it on. “I think it suits me.”

You smile too. “It certainly does.”

You sit and watch Ginny argue with George eager for the next week ahead of you.

~

You lied to yourself by the second day you were riddled with anxiety about not helping your parents, you even dressed in medic robes and tried to leave before hermione pulled you back into Ginny’s room to change.

“C’mon you can’t go.” Hemione stands firm in front of you.

“Hermione, they need all the help they can get.” You beg.

“Will they really notice if one person is gone?” She retorts.

“Yes! Of course I usually handle 20 patients. That's 20 people who rely on me daily that I’m letting down, those are 20 people that are going to be given to other people whose workload is way more than 20. Those patients woke up today and saw a new face. New isn’t exactly comforting given what has happened.”

Hermione considers your logic for a moment. “You’re right it won’t be comforting for them, but you need to stay here Mrs. Weasley will have a brain aneurysm if you don’t. Plus we have to get ready for school, when was the last time you looked at a book?”

“I haven’t had the time for books.” You confess sheepishly.

Hermione shakes her head and gently guides you back to one of the beds. She lets you change into some regular clothes as she pulls out a book from her trunk. The two of you quietly read together until Ginny wakes up.

Ginny takes one look at us and laughs, “C’mon already at least eat breakfast first!” Ginny pulled the two of us to the kitchen to grab a bite.

It was odd walking through the quiet house, listening to the wood creak under our steps. We sneak to the kitchen giggling amongst ourselves, we hardly noticed him.

Harry was leaning against the counter, a cup of coffee in hand as he watched three of his friends sneak into the kitchen like normal teenagers. It made his heart soar to see them acting normal and not fearful. He was worried that you would have tried to run back to the hospital, so he woke up early to stop you if you had tried.

Harry watches as the sun rises and lights up your face, a small smile forming.

You turn to him finally noticing that you’re sharing the space, you jump slightly. You stare at him, your eyes drift to his lips. The small smile he gives you tugs at your heart strings.

The moment is quickly ruined as Ginny shoves food at you and Hermione.

“Harry! You’re up!” Ginny smiles.

“Yeah I am, Rons still sleeping though.” Harry runs a hand through his messy hair.

Your eyes watch his hands as they drift through his messy hair.

“I’ll wake him up, if you’re down for a round of quidditch?” Ginny says.

Harry seems to think for a moment before he nods, “Only if you play,” he turns to you, his eyes looking into yours, “We’d need a keeper on par with Ron.”

You nod. “Yeah I can be the second keeper.”

Ginny turns to you, “I forgot you were the Ravenclaw keeper!”

You just nod gently.

“You should see if you can join the team again, would you even need to apply?” Ginny wanders off to wake up Ron.

Hermione took one glance between the two of you and mumbled something about helping Ginny.

Then you were alone with Harry, the last thing your war fresh 18 year old underdeveloped brain needed. You tried not to stare at him and focus on your food.

“Are you ready for this 8th year thing?” Harry asks as he moves closer to you.

“I mean, I’m ready for it to be over, to be considered actually qualified to be a healer and whatnot.” you say.

“Do you like it? Being a healer?” Harry asks gently.

“It feels right for me, it might not be right for everyone though. What are you thinking of doing Harry?”

“Have I never told you?” You shake your head, “Really? I want to be an Auror!” Harry’s eyes light up as he describes his reasons why. He moves to the same side of the table as you.

You look up at Harry and notice how tall he really is, and how he has developed a bit of stubble on his chin. You try to pay attention to what he was saying and not be too distracted by the warmth that radiated off of him.

Ron was heard yelling and you and Harry jumped apart. You did not realize just how close the two of you were. Your face starts to heat up. Ron grabs food.

“Ginny and Hermione are getting the twins for the game, who’s idea was it anyway? It's too early for a game.” Ron looked between you and Harry. “Was it you Mate?” Ron looks at Harry.

“No, it was Ginny’s idea.” Harry responds.

“Makes sense, of course she would decide this early in the morning was perfect for a match!” Ron complains.

It's 10:30 in the morning.

Rons complaints fall on Harry's ears and not yours. You let him handle all of Ron’s complaints as the twins walk in.

“Good Morning Ron!” George (Fred?) says.

“Good Morning Fred.” Ron replies.
“Good Morning Harry!” Fred (George?) says.

“Good Morning Fred.” Harry replies.

Ron stops and looks at Harry, “Only one of them is Fred mate.”

Harry turns to Ron, “And only one of them has both ears.”

You can't help but chuckle. The twins were a little easier to tell apart now sure, but it was a little blunt.

Ron turns bright red, and turns away and finishes his breakfast.

Your eyes meet Harry’s once again.

Chapter Text

Your short week at the Burrow had been full of studying with Hermione and brushing up your quidditch skills, you were considering trying to win the quidditch cup your last year at Hogwarts! It was so different not having to be so reliable… maybe that wasn't the right word, it was nice to not be needed so much and have a break to be a kid again.

But once you were at kings cross station it felt different, you never thought you'd walk through here again. Everyone seems to be having the same thoughts, the five of you walk slowly. Hermione and Ron lead the way with Ginny, Harry, and you trailing behind.

Harry and Ron convinced Mrs. Weasley to stay with Fred and George. You were very surprised that they were able to convince her but in that same breath she did almost lose her sons.

You had no issues boarding the train until you got to the train cars, only four people fit per cabin.

“Come on, we can go to the next cabin.” Hermione tugs your arm. We walk to the next cabin and sit together.

Hermione is wearing her Gryffindor sweater and you’re wearing your Ravenclaw sweater with jeans, it was a sharp contrast to the slytherin pure-bloods across from you. Draco Malfoy, Blaise Zambini and Theodore Nott sat in the cabin across from you.

We locked eyes with them.

“Damn Granger, you actually look happy to be here.” Blaise opens their cabin door and speaks.

Hermione looks him up and down, “I am excited to finish my education.”

Draco looks around and Theodore pulls Blaise back.

“Why are you pulling him?” you ask.

“We’ll get into more trouble than you're worth.” Draco says as he tugs Blaise, “Zambini I am not against force.”

Blaise frowns “Have you heard all the restrictions?” Blaise whispers.

I shake my head, Hermione nods.

“Look out for us, please.” We nod and Blaise sits with Draco and Theodore and they shut the cabin door.

You look at Hermione and shut our door, “What restrictions?”
Hermione shakes her head, she sits across from you, “I heard some things, I thought that they were maybe baseless rumors.”

“Clearly not.” You state.

“Yeah, now I have something confirming them,” Hermione takes a deep breath. “They’re blaming the Slytherins for the war, people who were not arrested are on house arrest until its decided otherwise.”

“How are they deciding otherwise?”

“It's completely convoluted really. Take Malfoy for example, his Mother testified against his father. His father is in Azkaban and she’s on house arrest. However, she is only on house arrest while Draco is at school. So if he returns for holidays she will be allowed to travel.”

“That's weird”

“It's supposedly so they don't try to visit anyone in Azkaban, but in that same breath Zambini’s mother is also on house arrest following the recent death of her new husband.”

“Are they restricting students?”

Hermione sighs, “That’s a bit worse. Weekly after classes on Fridays, all Slytherins have to go to the great hall and be interrogated by Aurors.”
“What for?”

“To ensure they’re not trying to start another revolution.”

“I have a feeling that's not all,” you look at Hermione.

“It’s not, their common room is monitored 24/7 and they are apparently getting trackers put in them.”

You gasp. “What?”

“Well that one is supposedly for those Slytherins who have romantic partners in other houses and do not want to stay in their common room.”

“I wouldn’t want to stay there either.” you shake your head.

You and Hermione are cut off when you hear someone walk down the aisle. Aurors board the train and stand between your cabin and the Slytherins. The cabin doors are forced open and an Auror enters your cabin.

“State your names.” the tall man asks. Well he more so orders.

You and Hermione Comply.

“They’re not on the list.” The Auror walks to the boys cabin,

“Blonde State your name.” The Auror Faces Draco.

“Draco Lucius Malfoy.” Draco stands.

“You are on the list,” The Auror Raises his wand and casts a spell that hits Draco in his chest and he collapses. The Aurors standing on the side toss Draco into our cabin as they work on the other two boys.

Draco falls on you and instinctively you pull him onto your bench. You look at Hermione, eyes wide. She shakes her head at you. Saying stay put.
Draco shudders as whatever was casted at him works through his body. Blaise is tossed at Hermione and she pulls him up to her as the spells work their way through him.

Soon Theo was tossed in and we tried to sit him on the floor of the cabin leading against the wall.

You look over at Draco next to you and see the tendrils of green magic pulsing through his veins. The Aurors move on to the next set of cabins.

“Hermione, this is not good.” You say, you kneel in front of Draco and take his head in your hands. “I’ve seen only one other case of this, his body is rejecting whatever magic this is.”

Hermione looks to you “Is there something we can do?”

“Let’s move Nott onto your bench and lay Malfoy down.” You direct.

Hermione and you lift Nott and lean him onto Zambini.

“Lift his legs, this will help improve circulation. Do you think you can get a wet rag or something similar?” You ask.

Hermione nods and sets out of the cabin to find the closest washroom.

Draco opens his eyes, you can see the green magic in the corners of his eyes.

“Calm down Malfoy.”

“Weaver? What’s wrong with me?” Malfoy tries to sit up, but you push him back down.

“Whatever they hit you with is affecting you negatively, your body is rejecting it. I don’t have my wand, but Hermione went to grab a towel.”

Draco groans as the magic courses through him.

“Hold my hand and focus on me okay.” You interlocked hands.

Chapter Text

Malfoy squeezes your hand, the green tendrils of magic flowing through his skin. You can hear the Aurors move through the train slowly the stomping of their boots, the throwing of students, almost undignified screeches of students who have been walked in on or who’s cabin doors were forced open. It didn’t take long for you to hear stirring through the wall of the cabin next-door.

Hermione ran into your cabin with a wet towel for you to place upon Malfoy‘ brow, Hermione falls into the spot next to you on the ground.

Soon you could hear Harry saying that he had to go check on you and Hermione, and as he turned the corner to look into your cabin, his eyes met yours “Are you lot alright?” Harry asks, scanning your face.

Hermione answered first “We’re somewhat all right.”

Only then did Harry look around into the cabin, his eyes first drifting to Hermione’s side where Zambini and Nott sat leaning on each other, still passed out from the magic that they were struck with. His eyes then gazed at you and Hermione sitting on the floor and then and only then did he realize that on the other bench someone was laying down. His eyes widen as he realized who you were taking care of Draco Malfoy.

“What are you doing Weaver?” Harry asks.

“His body‘s rejecting the magic.” you respond coolly.

Everyone in the cabin could tell that you were in a work mindset. You were focused on saving your “patient” as Harry’s eyes admired your side profile, glowing eyes focus solely on the one person, glowing eyes, focus solely on someone else. He wished it was him.

Soon Zambini and Nott started stirring.

“Is Draco okay?” Zambini asks sleepily.

“He will be, he seems to be accepting the magic now.” You say.

“What was he hit with Weaver?” Harry asks.

“I don’t know I’ve nev-“ you were cut off by Hermiome.
“It was a tracking spell.” She says very matter of factly.

Zambini and Nott sat up straighter.

“I knew they had plans, I didn’t know they’d act so quickly” Hermione mutters more to herself than anyone else.

You nod along dabbing Malfoys forehead with the wet towel. The magic green fading into his skin.

“You think the Aurors put tracking spells on him?” Harry asks, his eyebrows knit together.

“What did you not get the letter Potter? You don’t know about the changes?” Malfoy tries to sit up and you help him.

“What are you talking about Malfoy?” Harry almost sneers at him. Malfoy was way too close to you for his comfort.

“There was a letter detailing some changes this year.” Zambini starts.

“Like no wands on the train?” Harry asks.

“Yeah and I don’t care to tell you more ask Granger.” Zambini gets up and helps Hermione up.

Nott appears at your side and you take his hand and he helps you up. The two boys lift Malfoys arms and carry him back into their cabin. You sit and before Harry can protest Hermione leads him out to tell the other cabin what’s happening.

When Harry walks away Zambini pokes his head out.

“Say Weaver will Draco be alright?”

“Yes he just needs rest the hard part is over now.” You respond.

They go back into their cabin and close the door. It doesn’t take long for Hermione to return and shut the door.

“It’s going to be a long year.” She says and you can’t help but laugh in agreement.

Chapter Text

As the train approaches Hogwarts, you and Hermione shut the cabin curtains and change into your robes. The contrast between the blue and the red never seemed starker than now.

“He’s been staring, you know,” Hermione says.

“Who?” You ask.

“Malfoy has been throwing glances through the cabin windows. I think he’s waiting for us to open the curtain again.” She states.

“I think it's because I helped him.” You respond.

Hermione nods, figuring your explanation is suitable enough, and after doing a once over to make sure you're both good in your robes, you open the curtains. Sure enough, the Slytherin boys across the hall were glancing at the window. They're already fully dressed in their robes. The emerald green shining, somehow brighter under the setting sun.

As the train pulls into the Hogwarts station, the aurors run through and inform everyone that we will be staying on the train. And people will be called out by their year. Usually first years are saved for last, in order to do their sorting ceremony. However, Hermione has a feeling it'll be different this year.

They call for the first years and send them on their boats. Then they called for the seconds, the thirds, the fourths and eventually the new 8 years were called. But we were told to stay on the train in our cabins and that we will be escorted off in groups. Once again, You and Hermione were separated from Ron and Harry, as they were pulling people by rows. You look out the window to see what is happening and from what you can see, the auras are searching people. Ensuring that they don't have their wands or anything in their pockets and they are separating people by their houses to send by carriage up to the main castle.

Soon they open your cabin doors.

“Head off the train through the front.” The auror commands as you walk out in your Ravenclaw robes.

They have you walk in a single file line. As you walk off of the train there is an Auror checking names by houses. This further isolates you from your friends. You watch Hermione move to the other group as you get scanned by some Auror.

It was odd. Watching your friend get treated with such reverence. Aurors nodded at Hermione and let her walk past recognizing who she was now that we were off the train.

But they didn’t recognize you. The person who stabilized their friends and family. The person who helped set up a makeshift field hospital with Madam Pomfrey. You were nothing. While they were everything.

The aurors grabbed you and checked your pockets. They scanned you and lifted up your sleeves, checking your arms. You were clean obviously.

You glance back and see Zambini heading to the next carriage. Filling it and I get moved to the next available as Zabini rides off in Hermione’s carriage. The aurors keep sorting students out.

“What is happening?” You ask the auror outside the carriage you're currently sitting in.

“We require one student per house per carriage to ensure that no one plots. It’s dangerous times Miss.” They respond.

You nod, and you look outside. You see that Nott is currently being inspected by the auror in charge of the Slytherins. Malfoy is standing behind him, barely holding on. Still swaying slightly from rejecting the tracking magic that they used on him before. Obviously, Theodore has the tattoo, so when they lifted his sleeve they immediately recognized the tattoo. They tossed him into a carriage and did not bother to check if it was full or not and sent it on its way.

When they got to Draco, who was barely standing up by himself and found the same thing. They called for an open carriage and the aura standing outside your carriage shouted “Hey! this one's open!”

They took Draco and dragged him because he could not walk by himself, to your carriage and tossed him inside. As he lay on the floor, they shut the door, lock it, and signal the thestral to start pulling it away.

You help Malfoy up and let him lean against you.

“Weaver, this is the second time today I am relying on you.” He mutters.

“It is, three times and I’m going to think you’re forming a new habit.” You say softly.

You don’t know why you let him rest his head on your shoulder. You bring your hand up to check his temperature.

“Am I good Doc?” Malfoy asks.

“Your fever went down so that's good.” You say.

“Are you okay?” Malfoy asks and you hesitate.

“What?” You look down at him.

“I saw them grab you Weaver. They weren't soft, you got the same treatment as the rest of us.” He sits up and looks down at you. “Are you okay?” he asks again.

You nod slowly. Feeling small as you look up at him.

“Don’t give me that look Weaver.”

You don’t register how close he is. How dense the air feels when you both are breathing it because soon enough the carriage stops. You jump apart, as the door opens and we are escorted to the great hall.

You go to sit with the other Ravenclaws, and the sorting ceremony appears to be completed. You sit next to Padma Patil.

“Hey Patil.” You say as she looks up.

“Hey Weaver, have you heard?”

“About the restrictions?”

“Well yes that but also, Harry has been looking for you.”

“He has?”

“Yes, Parvati was telling me about it.”

“What did she say?”

“Just that he looked worried. Oh look he’s staring now.”

You turn to look at the Gryffindor table and sure enough, Harry is glancing your way.

You try to smile at him but he turns towards Ginny.

“Looks like the youngest Weasley has a new victim.” Patil mutters.

“What do you mean?” You turn to her.

You really only spent time with Hermione through your study groups, so you don’t really know the dynamic of the Weasley’s or of Harry’s with their group.

“I only know because my sister told me,” Padma lowers her voice conspiratorially, “Well she is a flirt first off, which no issue there, I get it, I can be a flirt sometimes.”

“Only sometimes?”

“Don’t start Weaver, you know I love getting lost in your eyes.” Padma flirts.

You smile and for once it feels normal seeing Patil again. Chatting being girls for once.

“Anyway, she apparently shared a kiss after breaking up with Thomas.”

“Shared a kiss with who?”

Padma smiled “With Harry of course! But she didn't want anything official, at least that's what Parvati said.”

“What?”

“Oh yeah, looks like she’s changed her mind about the official business. I mean who wouldn't double down after what happened. Life is short.”

“Yeah it is.” You mask the hurt you are feeling inside. There’s no way you could compete against Ginny for Harry’s heart.

Chapter Text

Harry’s POV

Sitting in the great hall unable to be next to her was torture. I watched her walk in with Malfoy again. Since when were they so close? I don't know. How am I supposed to act? I feel my face heat up with anger as I watch my girl enter with Malfoy. How am I supposed to respond to this? I look over at Ron but he is looking off to the side.

My girl? I can't even ask her out and I’m being possessive. I shake my head.

Ever since we started getting ready for Hogwarts again to do our eighth year together, I have felt distant from her. The last time that we were anywhere near each other was when we were at the Weasley‘s and then that didn’t last as we were interrupted by Ron and them.

If only I had the courage to talk to her to tell her something, anything really.

I feel something dark stir within me just thinking about Malfoy. I turn and look at the Slytherin table. Malfoy has new goons he is hanging out with this year. He recognizes Zambini from the slug club. I know I have seen the other boy around, but I know he was on the train with the other two. He was the one that helped Weaver up when she was kneeling by Malfoy.

I frown at the memory. The way this man felt comfortable enough with Weaver to grab her hand and help her up. I can't help but focus on the memory of their brief interaction.

“Harry, are you okay?” Hermione looks at him.

“Yeah, I was just thinking.” I say as I look over at Weaver and Patil.

I feel Ginny shift in the chair next to me and I glance over. Ginny is looking up at me with her big eyes.

“Yeah?” I ask her quietly.

“Just so nervous for this year, I hope it goes well.” Ginny confides in me.

“It will.” I smile at her.

I hear muttering and turn slightly to glance back at the Slytherin table again. Malfoy keeps glancing up and staring past me towards the ravenclaw table, to where she was sitting with one of the Patil twins.

Why was he staring at her? He’s never had a reason to look at her before they hardly had any classes together the year prior and given everything that’s happened. She really shouldn’t care to have a class with him.

My breath catches, I don't know her schedule. They haven't been released yet. I hope our schedules overlap and we have some classes together. If we do, we can be desk mates. I smile to myself thinking about helping her with schoolwork.

I let my eyes wander over to her table again. It's getting harder and harder. Every few minutes Ginny has something else she’d like to say. Which normally wouldn’t bother me, but I want to make sure Weaver is okay. I want to corner Hermione and ask her what happened on the train. Ever since then, Malfoy hasn’t looked at Weaver the same.

Something more is happening right in front of me, and I don’t like it. It's like I'm starting to be left out of some grand conspiracy.

I barely pay attention to Professor McGonagall's welcome speech as I’, more focused on the food. I haven’t eaten since this morning; she probably hasn’t either.

When they finally serve the food the air around the great hall is still tense. I don’t understand why. Everything has been fixed. The world has been saved. Well, some people might cause problems that is something that we do need to be worried about, but we will have to wait and see how everything pans out.
I look across the great hall watching as she chats with one of the Patil twins. Have they always been so close? Maybe the other twin will know what they’re talking about? I just worry about her; she is so focused on helping everyone else that she doesn't take care of herself.

I look over at Hermione, “Are we still going to do study groups this year?”

“Yeah of course, studying is what will help us pass. Plus, you two are bad at maintaining your grades.” Hermione says, referring to Ron and me.

That’s how I met her to begin with. At Hermione's study sessions. She was one of the first Ravenclaws I met. She is smart and patient. I would consider her one of my greatest friends.

As I think about her potential, I regret that she found out just how much she takes after her parents. The battle wasn't easy on anybody but watching her run around covered in blood and casting healing spells and counter spells will forever be etched into my memory.

I watch her as she eats the way her lips move as she chats with a Patil.

I could confidently say that that was the point in which I fell in love with her. Watching her take care of everyone, she saved Fred. I couldn’t be more thankful.

She keeps looking up and I hope it’s for me.

Ginny speaks up “Are you going to join the team this year? Or are you going to let someone else step up?”

“I'm not sure Ginny,” I respond as I look up at Weaver, “I should focus on school plus I am not planning on going pro or anything.”

Hermione interjects. “Absolutely not! I understand you like the sport but focusing on our education is the right thing to do, plus you two tend to not focus on your grades. We need this education to become productive adults in the wizarding world.”

Productive adults? I look at her again, my girl resting her head on her hands as she listens to whatever story Patil is telling her.

“Plus,” Hermione starts, “I heard Professor McGonagall herself wrote schedules to ensure that we stay as separated as possible. To help prevent arguments.”

“Who told you that?” Ginny asks.

“I heard your mother speaking about it with Fred and George when we were over there.” Hermione responds.

“Was that before or after Weaver arrived?” I ask.

“Oh, definitely before,” Hermione shakes her head, “I was busy getting Weaver caught up and back into what we would be working on in our 8th year. She's been in that medical mindset since last year. I don’t think she has taken a break. Even on that first day I had to stop her from leaving. She was dressed in her healer robes ready to go.”

I pause, that day I had woken up early to stop her in the kitchen. I was certain she was going to come down but never did, I thought she was healing.

I look over at Weaver again. She’s wearing that adorable pout that tugs at her lips when things don’t go her way.

I want to go to her; I want to see her smile again. I don’t think she has smiled at all since she arrived at the Weasleys. Since she returned to me, she hasn't smiled once.

Professor McGonagall clinks her glass. “Schedules for our 8 years are here.” The letters fly out to us.

I catch my letter and open it.

Ron and I classes overlap perfectly. However, I only share a handful of classes with Hermione. This is weird. I look up at Hermione, and she is comparing her schedule to Rons confused.

"It's going to be a long year." Hermione mutters.

Chapter Text

After dinner, Headmistress McGonagall stood up, “Today is a special day, for not just your futures but the future of the wizarding world. But we must address some changes that will be in effect from here on out. By order of the Minister of Magic Kingsley Shacklebolt, Slytherin students are to be watched carefully,” Hermione perked up when she hears this, “Fridays after class, the Great Hall will be closed. After the conclusion of class on Friday all Slytherin are to report to the Great Hall. You may have heard the rumors, and I regret to inform you that they are true, aurors will be checking every Slytherin student. Ensuring that the tracking spells they put on them are in place. First year Slytherin will get theirs tomorrow, the first Friday of the year. There will be more changes to come, hopefully good ones. But as your headmaster the only thing I can say is remember who you are, who we as a school are and what we represent. Look out for each other, we will start by releasing everyone, first and eighth years stay back.”

A shuffling of chairs echoes as everyone around you heads out. It was odd to only have twenty students at the table. The fresh faced first years were nervous as always. Professor Sinistra stands first and takes away the Gryffindor first years.

Looking over at Harry, Ron, and Hermione you could tell something was weighing on them. Neville Longbottom looks over at Dean Thomas and Seamus Finnigan. Fay Dunbar was leaning into Pavarti. They're down two girls. You turn to Padma.

“She was one we tried,” Padma took a deep breath, “She came in after the Weasley twin. We tried, she was just ribbons when she got to us and the other hasn’t been found”

You put a comforting hand on Padma’s arm. Patil was there with you in the great hall back then. Being your best friend she helped you practice your healing spells all those years. But even then, you can’t help everyone.

Padma looks up at Pavarti who is already looking towards her twin. Parvati is trying to give Padma a reassuring smile, or so you assume, it comes across as more of a grimace.

Professor Sprout stands next and collects the Hufflepuff first years.

Justin Finch-Fletchley and Earnie Macmillian sit side by side avoiding everyone's eyes. Macmillan was trying to block people's view of Finch-Fletchley but it didn't help, the raised spider-webbed scar spreading from his cheek down his neck was hard to miss. A dueling scar you assume. It's not hard to guess how a muggle-born got one of those.

Hannah Abbot raised her head and glared out at the rest. Given that the Hufflepuff table is on the far edge it was relatively easy for her to make sure everyone knew where she stood. She moves around to sit across from Finch-Fletchley and faces out at everyone. Susan Bones joins her in blocking the boys from view. A year of ten down to four.

You glance back at them. Bones eyes soften momentarily at you and Patil.

“Let us know if you need anything, yeah?” you tell her softly, whispering across the small divide a secret just between y’all.

She nods almost imperceptibly.

Professor Flitwick stands a slight tenseness in his jaw. He directs the first years to the door but stops in front of you.

“Ms. Weaver, Ms. Patil” He says quietly.

“Yes Professor?” You speak up.

“Meet me in my classroom after your classes tomorrow. Understood?” He waits for your confirming nods. When you nod he stands up straight and escorts the first years out.

You look to your left where Padma is and you hold her hand. Padma clenches her jaw.

Sue Li moves to sit on Padma’s other side. “Patil deep breaths we can talk after yeah?” Her calming voice seems to work on Padma. Similar to the hufflepuff girls. Terry Boot, Micheal Corner, and Anthony Goldstein sit across from you with their backs to you blocking the eyes of the Gryffindor and Slytherin tables.

You felt Padma relax.

And just like that, Ravenclaw's year of ten is down to six.

The air seems tense as Professor Slughorn finally stands up with an anxious smile.

“Well, take a look at how even the smallest action can affect a whole community.” He says with a light chuckle. He guides the Slytherin first years out of the Great Hall.

Even with the wall blocking your view, you could see Draco Malfoy, Blaise Zambini, and Theodore Knott sitting together side by side, with a noticeable gap between them and Pansy Parkinson and Daphne Greengrass. A year of ten down to five.

Headmistress McGonagall speaks up again, “Please wait for your Head of House to return, they will escort you to your common rooms and show you where your rooms will be. As you know the towers are built to hold seventy students in fourteen rooms, so we had to expand a bit. Be mindful of your fellow students. You were a year of forty,” the Headmistress takes a deep breath steadying herself, “You were a year of forty, now a year of twenty three. There was more loss and suffering in these past few years than most experience in a lifetime. Let us not add to it.”

You nod understanding. Professor Sinistra was the first to return.

Harry glances briefly over at you but quickly turns to Ron as he whispers something to Harry. Hermione makes a writing motion at you, and you assume that to mean she will write to you once she gets settled.

Hannah Abbot leans forward. “Hey, since we're all going to be in class together in smaller groups,” She starts.

You, Patil, and Li turn to her to listen.

Abbot sighs, “Look just keep an eye out on Finch-Fletchley. We already know we won't all be in the same class.”

“We will look out for him,” you assure her.

Abbot shakes her head. “You misunderstand, Finch can stand on his own, but he's not Potter. He's not reveling in his scar for fame. Keep them in check will ya?”

Padma shakes her head, “I would serve them right to get chewed out.”

“Patil!” Li hushes her.

Abbot smiles and leans back at her table.

Professor Sprout comes next escorting the Hufflepuffs out.

“That's interesting.” Corner mutters to Boot and Goldstein.

“What is?” Li asks.

“Later. Once we’re in our rooms.” Boot says. The three boys are still facing out, only turning their heads slightly making it look like they're only talking to each other.

Professor Flitwick returns.

You stand and Patil holds your arm as you follow Professor Flitwick.

He leads you to the Ravenclaw tower and to the section where your rooms will be. You each are given your own room. He gives your wands back. You explore the rooms so see who’s stuff is where. The Prefect rooms are in the hallway next door, but your year was given its own mini tower. On the first level is Terry Boot and Micheal Corner. The second level is Sue Li and Anthony Goldstein. Finally on the third level was You and Padma Patil.

After everyone was settled you all met in Patil’s room. You all sat on the floor in a circle.

Li speaks first. “So what was so “interesting” in the Great Hall?”

Boot looks over at you. “Noticed some staring is all.”

You sigh already knowing what this is about.

“Looks like you get to regale everyone on what happened to you today with a certain Slytherin.” Patil nudges.

They group looks at you with confusion.

“Tell me it's the quiet one at least.” Li says.

Corner laughs, “Hate to break it to ya, he wasn’t the one staring.”

Goldstein speaks up “Let her explain herself.”

You catch them up to speed on what your last week has been like. How you had been working at St. Mungos since you left here last year. How Mrs. Weasley noticed you when she came to visit friends and family.

“Honestly I didn't even know the school year was starting at all, neither did my parents. If it wasn't for Mrs. Weasley I would probably still be there.” You tell them.

You continue telling them about the tension at the Burrow, and how you saved Malfoy on the train, and how cuddly you got on the carriage ride over.

Patil gasps. “You left that part out!”

Li leans forward, “He was tossed in and he still checked on you?”

Corner scoffs, “Speaking of how is everyone holding up? Those aurors weren't easy on me at least.”

“Just more startled than anything for me.” you speak up.

Li nods. “Didn’t expect to be manhandled off the train.”

“I was trying to find you guys, I’ve been… antsy I guess, but they wouldn't let anyone out of the cars.” Goldstein says.

“What?” You look at him, head tilted. “Like you couldn't step into the corridor at all?”

He nods. “They locked my doors, why?”

They turn to you yet again.

“Potter came to my cabin, and Hermione - oh Granger - was able to go to grab a wet towel.” You say.

Patil groans.

“What?” you look at her.

“Don’t get her started.” Li warns.

“Actually, I’d love to know what's going through her head.” Boots chuckles.

“I am so sick of them!” Patil starts, “Except my sister of course, she seems to be the only one not oblivious to what's happening here, or what has happened. Like there is no way they didn't see how other students were treated! Weaver! You even said you shared a cabin with Granger; Potter came to check after the Slytherin boys were tossed to you. But even then! EVEN - THEN!” Patil punctuates her words by clapping with each syllable, “When he gets to the Great Hall he asked if I had seen you? HE - HAD - MORE - FREE-DOM! And he couldn’t find you? You literally were with him and he couldn’t keep track of that?” Patil crosses her arms.

“Patil,” You start.

“I know you have some stupid crush on him, but he literally hasn’t shown he cares at all. I love you and you are my best friend, but you really should rethink that.” Patil looks at you.

You feel your face heat up, embarrassed she had outed your crush on your friend.

“Patil! You swore!” You hiss at her.

“Weaver. After we all left here last year no matter how busy you were, you wrote to me. You wanted to make sure I was okay.” Patil states.

You nod. Patil was never prepared for any type of field hospital scenario like what occurred. Yet she stepped up and helped you and Madam Pomfrey. Hell, even Professor Trawlney came to help after she broke all her crystal balls.

“How many times has he written to you?” Patil asks.

“That's not fair.” You start, face getting redder. You really didn’t want to have this conversation in front of everyone.

“Look Weaver she doesn't mean to embarrass you, but this is information we need.” Goldstein speaks up.

“How? Why would you need to know about my crush? Please explain that?” You reply.

“You are sensitive right now,” You make a face, “don’t start,” Goldstein rubs his temples, “I don’t mean it like that. You haven’t had a break since then. You have been go go go. Your headspace, you're still at war. Look at what happened on the train, you said it yourself you didn't even think just acted. The last thing we as your friends want for you is to let some chosen one asshole use that headspace to his advantage to woo you without doing it properly. But don't think we're giving Malfoy a pass because he seems to have fallen in love with his healer.” Goldstein finishes.

Boots nods, “Exactly, I hate Malfoy as much as the next guy, but at least he asked you if you were okay.”

“That part!” Patil starts, “That's what I mean, and now with Finch-Fletchley also sporting a new look, the Hufflepuff squad is afraid Potter will do that insensitive thing that he does when he asks about your scars or injuries. Pairing that with Potter’s scar which was seen as something great to take down You-know-who. They didn’t want Potter to try and relate to him when Potter’s scar is barely visible.”

Everyone nods.

Li turns to Boot. “So Malfoy was staring?” she asks.

“Nosey,” You say playfully.

“Informed. I think you mean I am informed.” Li responds.

“It wasn’t just Malfoy staring.” Patil smirks.

“Patil!” You look at her.

“Look I don't like how they're acting like they're the ones being targeted by the world. But he was staring at you, a lot. I think I even saw him glare at Malfoy.” Patil says playfully.

“You all are gossips.” You say.

They all smile. “What did you expect?” Corner gives you a crooked grin.

“We should compare our schedules! See where we start tomorrow!” Li says.

You all examine your schedules setting the papers in the middle of the circle.

“What is this?” You look. Your schedule had “HERBOLOGY” as the first class.

However, Patil’s schedule said “POTIONS”.

“We have always had the same classes, what is this?” Patil looks.

“Boot and Weaver have herbology first. Goldstein and Patil both have potions. Li has Defense against the Dark Arts, and I’m saddled with charms all by myself.” Corner says.

Almost none of your classes lined up with your housemates.
You have Herbology first with Boot.
Potions second by yourself.
Charms third with Patil
And Defense against the dark arts with Patil and Boot.

“I don't share any classes with Goldstein, Corner, or Li? That's weird, we always share at least one class?” You stare at the papers.

“Well I only have Charms second with Boot, other than that I don't have any classes with you guys.” Li says.

A piece of neatly folded floral stationary in the shape of a paper airplane flutters in and onto your lap. You recognized the paper immediately. Hermione.

You unfold the paper airplane and read it aloud to your nosey compatriots.

“Hey Weaver!

Wanted to see how you're holding up with all of these changes and wanted to know what was up with the Hufflepuffs at dinner?

Also here's my schedule, be sure to send me yours!

1st - Potions
2nd - Herbology
3rd - Charms
4th - Defense Against the Dark Arts.

With Respect

Hermione Granger.”

“Her schedule matches mine perfectly.” Patil says, comparing her paper to your note.

“Why would they match your schedule to hers?” Li asks.

“They probably want everyone spaced out, Potter usually goes out and nearly gets himself killed every year so.” Corner says.

“Weaver, ask your boyfriend what his schedule is.” Goldstein teases.

“I don't have a boyfriend, you know that.” You say.

Before they can respond to you a neatly folded paper crane flies in and lands softly in your lap. Written neatly on the wing was your name. You didn’t recognize the handwriting but the neat cursive gave you a hint.

You gently unfolded it as the group watched.

“Weaver,

I am sorry to disturb you, but you looked rattled after the carriage and then again during dinner. Are you alright? I also wanted to know if your house schedules look weird, the girls only share one class and between me, Knott and Zambini we only share two classes, is it the same for you?

Malfoy”

“He wrote to you.” Li says teasingly.

“Don't start.” you warn.

“Granger wrote to you.” Boots says.

“She did.” you reply.

“Did Malfoy send his schedule?” Corner asks.

“No.” You say.

“Can you ask him for his schedule, it seems we're not the only ones being spread thin.” Patil says.

“I don't have pa-” You don’t get to finish your sentence before Patil throws her stationary kit at you.

You sigh but start penning a letter to Malfoy.

“Malfoy,

Thank you for checking in on me. I am alright. How are you holding up? You went through more than me. As for schedules yes we have a similar issue.

Here is my schedule, Please send yours as well.

1st - Herbology
2nd - Potions
3rd - Charms
4th - Defense Against the Dark Arts

With Respect,
Weaver”

You fold the paper into a neat crane. You write his name on the wing just like he did for you and you send it off.

“I can’t believe Granger wrote to you and Potter didn’t.” Li says.

“What do you mean?” you ask.

“If I had a girl I was sweet on, I would write to her myself, not just let my friend write to her.” Boot says.

You roll your eyes as you pen a response to Hermione as well.