“If you’re wondering if I’ve stopped thinking my curtains are dementors in the middle of the night, I can assure you, I never had that fear.” Not that Valentina would admit to it even if she did, so she wouldn’t blame Malcolm if he didn’t believe her. It had been nearly three weeks since her release and Valentina had long ago scrubbed away the stench of the wizarding prison, scrubbing her skin until it was raw and wearing extra layers because it felt so difficult to stay warm those first few days after.
Sipping at her drink as she surveyed Malcolm, Valentina wondered as she always did around death eaters lately if he regarded her as a liability due to her time in Azkaban, Theodora’s capture and death only adding to her wariness. “I also didn’t have any family get togethers while I was behind bars, which was the best part of the experience, if you ask me. Although I did hear a few interesting things. So.” Tipping her head to the side, the corner of Valentina’s lips flickered briefly. “Are you going to tell me your gossip or shall I start with mine?” @themalcolmgreengrass
