Chapter Text
"Parting is such sweet sorrow!"
According to Dad, they were absolutely right. His eyes blur with unshed tears as you and Mom stare awkwardly, bags in hand, in front of the International Floo Network. Passersby give him brief, curious looks as he pulls you both into his arms for one last hug.
"Try not to blow anything up, okay?" he mutters, sniffling.
You roll your eyes, tugging your bag further up your shoulder. "No promises."
Mom laughs nervously, smoothing down your hair. "We'll be fine. I'll be there to keep an eye on her...some of the time, anyway. Besides, a little explosion? Harmless, really."
Dad snorts, trying (and failing) to hide his grin. "Famous last words, my love. Famous. Last. Words."
You stick your tongue out at him, averting your eyes to Nox, your pretty kitty, who sits on your feet with an unimpressed glower. Always tired of sentiment, this girl.
"Time's up," Dad says, giving a final squeeze. "Remember: don't let anyone near your wand, don't eat anything questionable, and, uh... try not to summon a dragon. Again."
"Sure, Dad," you say, already smiling despite the lump in your throat.
You pat your shoulder, and Nox springs up, curling across it in her usual spot like she owns the place. She lets out a warning whine, her tail flicking once- right across your face.
You splutter, "Alright, alright," stepping towards the fireplace of the Floo Network. Mom comes next, grasping your hand tightly. "Ready, Honey?"
One last look at your encouraging, still sniffling Dad, "Ready as I'll ever be."
A flash of green, and you and Mom stumble out onto a bustling, stone-walled train station.