black | sirius black

Crush

Sixth Year

The ambiance in the Great Hall was a blend of subdued conversations and the crackling of the fireplace, casting dancing shadows on the cozy decor.

Jayce Selwyn, now in her later years at Hogwarts, reclined in her chair, her gaze periodically drifting toward the Gryffindor table where James Potter and his friends were engrossed in their own chatter. 

"And Slughorn decided that Potter would be my partner." Jayce rolled her eyes, her and Marlene constantly glancing back at the table where her Potions partner, James Potter, was eating with his goons.

Over the years, subtle changes had woven into Jayce's appearance. Her once rebellious, jet-black curls had metamorphosed into a cascade of dark waves that framed her face. Her piercing eyes, the color of midnight darkness, carried a certain intensity that had only grown more pronounced with each passing year.

The years had brought transformations beyond physical appearances. Jayce, who had set her sights on joining Quidditch from her first year, had not only achieved that goal but had risen to become the captain of the Slytherin Quidditch team.

"He looks dashing, I don't see the problem at all," Pandora interjected, flipping her straight blonde hair out of the way, provoking a groan from Jayce, who found the gesture distasteful.

"He's got eyes for Evans," Marlene commented casually, biting into the sandwich Jayce had momentarily set aside. "Who happened to be my partner. She isn't that bad, though. Not as bad as Potter, at least."

The conversation pivoted seamlessly as Jayce diverted attention to another matter. "Plus, you've got that Lovegood guy wrapped around your finger. Wonder how your brother will react to that news."

Pandora winced at the mention of her brother, Lucius Malfoy, and the complexities of family dynamics.

"Lucius is too busy getting married to Narcissa Black to pay any attention to my dating news—"

"Dating news? Who's dating who?" Evan Rosier entered the scene, appearing slightly winded, as if he had just engaged in a strenuous activity known only to him.

The girls turned around to see Evan Rosier, who looked like he had just run a mile. But, everyone knew that he was doing something completely different.

However, the sweat on his forehead and the sight of his clothes clinging to his body were an immediate giveaway as to what he was doing.

"Evan," Jayce rose from her seat, hands on hips, an air of authority surrounding her, "I am the captain of the Slytherin Quidditch team. I decide on the practice sessions. There is absolutely no need for you to run off and practice on your own. Hell, the team tryouts are not for another month!"

Evan, seemingly unfazed, wiped sweat off his forehead and took a seat next to Pandora, his attention undiverted from his own agenda.

"Saw two fifth years practicing too. They're gonna try out for being Keeper," Evan stated, his eyes focused on Pandora, who remained composed while enjoying her meal. "Watch for that, Pan," he added, a hint of suggestion lingering in the air.

"Good thing Potter's the Gryffindor captain. If I end up on Evans'—," Marlene paused, glancing at Evan, "Lily Evans' good side, you know for sure Potter's gonna make me Beater this year as well."

The Great Hall continued its blend of muted conversations, laughter, and the occasional sizzling of the fireplace, each student carrying their own stories and ambitions within the tapestry of Hogwarts life.

Just then, a familiar stout boy walked into the Great Hall, his beaver-like teeth sticking out to form a smile as he joined James and the Potters- oh sorry, the Marauders.