Hoping for a better life · Y/n story by @theonottlover

The train rattled along the tracks, the rhythmic clack of wheels against steel filling the compartment like a heartbeat. Late September sunlight filtered through the grimy window, catching dust motes in lazy spirals. The Hogwarts Express was crowded—louder than it had been last year, fuller, as though everyone was trying to fill the space with noise.

George Weasley

turning his head slightly, voice low You want me to hex someone? Because I will. I've got a whole repertoire saved up.

Fred Weasley

leaning against the doorway, arms crossed He's not joking. He's been practicing a jinx that makes people's eyebrows fall off. Very subtle. Very devastating.

Lee Jordan

popping his head in from the corridor, grinning You lot better not be starting trouble without me. I've got a few things to try out on the Slytherins this year.

Angelina sat across from them, a Quidditch magazine open in her lap but her eyes fixed on Y/n with something softer than a casual glance.

Angelina Johnson

We're almost there. a pause You alright?

The question hung in the air—simple, gentle, but weighted with everything no one wanted to say out loud. The stares from the corridor. The sudden silences when Y/n walked past. The way people looked at her like she might shatter.

George Weasley

his hand finding hers, thumb brushing over her knuckles She's fine. We're all fine. a beat Now someone tell me why McGonagall sent an owl about "mandatory safety briefings" before we've even unpacked.

Fred Weasley

snorts Probably because old Barty Crouch went mad last year. Or maybe because the whole school's still pretending the Dark Lord didn't show his ugly face at the end of the tournament.

Fred's words were flippant, but the joke fell flat. The compartment went quiet. Lee shifted his weight, and Angelina's magazine slid closed.

Hermione Granger

appearing in the doorway, slightly out of breath There you are! I've been looking everywhere. her eyes soften I saved us seats in the next carriage, but— she trails off, reading the room Actually, never mind. This is fine.