Always light the candles

Chapter 9

I shoved my phone back into my pocket and headed towards the exit of the castle. The cool evening air hit me as I stepped outside, goosebumps creeping up my arms.

The journey to the pub was a welcome respite. I concentrated on my surroundings, taking in the sights and sounds of the village. The cobblestone streets, the chatter of passing villagers, the warm glow of light pouring out of the windows of the various shops and pubs.

My thoughts were still present, lingering in the back of my mind, but they were pushed aside for now, replaced by the simple act of moving my legs and watching where I was going.

The familiar sight of the Three Broomsticks appeared in the distance. Warm light streamed from the windows, and the sound of laughter and music floated out into the evening air. I quickened my pace, eager to escape the tumultuous thoughts swirling inside my head and relax in the company of a new friend.

I pushed open the door to the pub, the warm, cozy atmosphere enveloping me instantly. The smell of ale and frying food filled my nostrils, and the sound of lively chatter greeted me.

I scanned the room, spotting Ellie at a corner table, waving me over with a smile on her face.

***

I made my way through the crowded pub towards Ellie's table, weaving in and out of the crowd of patrons. As I approached, Ellie motioned for me to sit down, a look of concern etched on her face. "You alright?" she asked, studying me closely.

I forced a smile, trying to hide my internal turmoil. "Yeah yeah, I'm fine," I replied, plopping down into the chair opposite her. "Just needed to get out of the castle for a bit, you know?"

Ellie frowned, her gaze still fixed on me, trying to read my demeanor. "What the hell was that in the Great hall all about?" she said, her voice laced with concern.

I sighed, running a hand through my hair. "Alex's just being his usual dickhead self," I replied, trying to play it off as nothing major. "He's got a permanent stick up his ass, and he decided to take it out on me today."

Ellie rolled her eyes, clearly not buying my attempt at nonchalant behaviour. "Don't give me that bullshit, Albus," she said, her tone firm. "You and I both know there's something going on that you're not telling me. Spill the beans."

I groaned, regretting my decision to reach out to Ellie. She was far too perceptive for her own good. I stretched my hand into the bowl full of jelly beans which was in the middle of our table and when I scooped a few of them in my hand, I gently dropped them on the table in an attempt to make a joke. Ellie gave me a poker face but biting a laugh. 

"What? You asked me to spill the beans." I said with a chuckle at my own joke. "C'mon you gotta admit that was pretty funny." I added and I could see the corner of Ellie's lips fighting to stay in place.

"Fine, fine," I muttered, giving in to her stubbornness. "Alex saw me with...someone. He didn't approve, and he felt the need to voice his disapproval loudly and violently."

Ellie's eyebrows shot up, her curiosity piqued. "Alex didn't approve? Who exactly were you with that would rile him up that much?" I hesitated, suddenly unsure if I wanted to share the details.

"It's...complicated," I said evasively. "But let's just say Alex doesn't exactly approve of my choices in company."

Ellie didn't look convinced, her gaze boring into me. "You seriously expect me to leave it at that?" she said, raising an eyebrow. "I need details, Albus. Spill."