The dead of night

“I could use a refill if you’re paying.”

“I can tell by the looks of ya - but fair enough. One drink, if you’ll tell me what’s got you in here.”

“Well then, disappointed that it was me and not one of your newfound ‘friends’? Though you and I were friends once, admittedly.” 

“By your choice, not mine. I surround myself with people who wish to be in my life - you are no longer one of them.”

“I tower over most of the student body as it is, I don’t think I should add any sort of heels to that unless necessary.” She shrugged. “Perhaps I’ll invest in some dangling earrings.” she smirked. 

“There is nothing wrong with that, many fear people who are...above them, for some reason. It can be used towards your advantage - but yes, dangling earrings would work just as well.”

“I deserved that one I suppose. How have you been, Adromeda? Besides the obvious keeping Sirius’ head out of his arse.”

"About as good as expected, I suppose. I’d say that I’m looking forward to returning to Hogwarts, but things in my House may be a bit more....uncomfortable than usual.”

“Where’s the fun in that? I happen to like seeing people jump.”

“Just as I happen to like knowing who is approaching me.”

“And here I thought you’d be happy to see me, sister.” 

“That generally comes after the heart has started to beat again. You know I’m always happy to see you, Narcissa.”

“I didn’t realize my steps where so quite, though that’s hardly something I can change.”

“On the contrary, it’s a problem fized by a solution as simple as earing heels. Though they’re rather horrid, I don’t blame you for opting for more...sensible footwear. But really, it’s far too quiet.”

“Would if help if I neigh? Or honk?” At the end of his sentence, he honked loudly, trying hard to sound like an actual goose as opposed to just someone with nasal problems.

Staring at James with a rather blank expression her face, one eyebrow slowly arched in curiosity. “I strongly suggest you never make that noise again. For the good of all of us.”

“If you could tell my brother that I was quiet for once I’ll give you a galleon. He’d never believe it coming from me.”

“I share that shock with him - hence the surprise. Though I’m sure - hopefully - that he’ll be glad to hear that my heart didn’t completely give out.”