Holly Potter POV - December 25, 1997.
The last few months were the most terrible and wonderful of my life. Classes continued as normal, but I also had to add modern alchemy, which, frankly, could easily be two or three classes in itself because of how complicated it was, but it was really entertaining and downright amazing. It was similar to, yet so different from, wand transfiguration that it was fascinating.
And I had also continued taking classes with Serena on ancient magic. I must say… she was an absolute genius and an even better Professor. It was one thing to read about the things she did, how she revolutionized the world through a magazine or clippings, but it was quite another to see it firsthand.
I had learned ancient magic from Dumbledore and the Keepers' portraits; I had entered a world that few had touched. I believed I had an advantage, that what I had learned, perhaps not all I could learn, but perhaps half, being humble.
But no. Serena deconstructed and reconstructed everything she knew about ancient magic in every class. She had learned so much about ancient magic that it was simply on another level. She talked and talked about magic as if it were the most fascinating thing in the world, and her enthusiasm was truly contagious.
And…it wasn't just lessons. To my surprise, we talked, a lot, Serena…. She had definitely lived a lot, but I had discovered that she didn't like to talk much about her past, much to my dismay. I wanted…I wanted to get to know her more intimately, but I took any piece she freely offered as a blessing.
Even so, she talked a lot about other things. She was definitely an avid reader, and she liked to talk at length about her books. She talked about mythology, about devils and angels, about her culture, and how her government would be structured. She talked about technological worlds far superior to anything the Muggles of this world could do.
About fantasy worlds, with their own magic, different from ours. And she always came back to the Gardener and the Winnower. Emphasis on the gardener. It was… it was truly fascinating to hear her talk about so many things; she spoke and described things as if she herself had been present, so it was truly mesmerizing to listen to her speak.
But putting that aside, the most important thing was that the classes were also amazing, even though I spent half of them unable to think. I didn't want to overthink it, definitely not, and I kept telling myself that Serena wasn't flirting with me, but… The light touches when she corrected my posture, the looks she gave me, her mouth whenever she spoke, her long, elegant fingers that squeezed my shoulders, my hip, or closed around my wrists, my hands, and—
I shook my head to clear those thoughts from my mind as I blushed slightly.
"Will Grandma and Grandpa arrive at noon?" Hope asked excitedly. I blinked back into the conversation. I glanced at the pile of unwrapped presents around us. It was Christmas. Right, we had just opened the presents; Christmas dinner with the family was in a few hours.
"Lyall and Hope will be here in a couple of hours, yes," Mum said with a hum. "Mum and Dad... they'll be at Petunia's this year, but James's parents will be here too," Mum said with a smile.
"Sirius, Marlene, and Lyra are coming too," Pops said with a smile.
"So we'll all be together!" Dad said, bouncing in his seat before making a face. "Well, except for Peter, he's still out of the country." Dad pouted. Mom was about to speak when Owl tapped on the window. We all turned around immediately before stopping.
"That's not an owl," Hope said uncertainly.
"A raven?" Pops asked curiously as he approached and opened the window. The raven flew in quickly, carrying a box in its talons. It circled the room rapidly before dropping the box into my lap, then flew out the window without any trouble.
"A raven? Who uses a raven to send mail? " Dad asked incredulously.
"Read the letter!" Hope said excitedly. I rolled my eyes as I stared at the package. I turned it over until I found a small label. My eyes widened slightly before bouncing with excitement.
"It's from Professor Prince!" I squealed with joy as I looked at the package in my hands and held it almost as if it were a relic.
"Serena sent you something?" Pops asked, surprised.
"Give me that!" Dad said as he tried to snatch the package from me, I held it against my chest.
"No way! It's mine! " I said incredulously.
"It could be cursed!" Dad said immediately, and I looked at him incredulously.
"Why on earth would I curse a gift?" I asked incredulously.
"Because it's Serena!" Dad said, as if it were obvious. I just stared at her in disbelief.
"If she had wanted to curse me, she would have done it months ago. We were studying, alone, in a room! She had the opportunity to curse me all year if she'd wanted!" I said, as if it were obvious. They knew about my private lessons. Mom and Pops knew the truth about what she was teaching me; they seemed genuinely surprised that Serena had ancient magic, but they accepted it quickly. Dad, on the other hand, just thought she was giving me extra lessons, and he absolutely hated it, but as usual lately, I ignored him.
"James, let Holly have her present," Mom said with a sigh. Dad looked conflicted before he grunted and sat down, grumbling.
"Open it, open it! I want to see what Serena Prince gave you, it must be some kind of magical relic or something! " Hope said excitedly. I blushed slightly and looked at the package, slowly beginning to unwrap it. Inside, there was a finely decorated box. I could hear Hope whistling in amazement. I ignored her before opening it slightly.
"Huh?" I said, confused, as I took a pair of glasses out of the box. I was confused, I admitted it. The glasses were beautiful; the ones I was wearing now were quite ordinary, just simple round glasses, and while the glasses Serena had given me were similar, it was obvious the craftsmanship was much better.
The frame alone had so many delicate details that it was beautiful to look at, and possibly very expensive. I didn't recognize the material at all.
"Shall I give you some glasses?" Dad teased. I glared at him. Then I looked at them closely and frowned. I was about to reach for a letter when a small flame appeared in front of me and dropped a tiny note. I sighed as I picked it up.
"Dramatic," I said playfully, smiling broadly. I picked up the cards and read them carefully. My eyes widened slightly. "Oh," I said incredulously, looking at my glasses.
"And?! What does it say?!" Hope asked impatiently.
"The glasses are enchanted. They're supposed to let me see things impossible with the naked eye," I said quickly. Connections. The glasses I'd worn in the headmaster's office had been temporary, and now she'd given me permanent ones. "And most importantly, they'll let me read 120 times faster," I said incredulously, staring at the glasses.
"That... that's possible?" Mom asked in shock. "120 times... you could read any book in minutes, that's incredible." Mom murmured in shock, looking at the glasses.
"Try them," Pops said with an encouraging smile. I just stared at the lenses in surprise before shakily taking off my old ones and putting on the ones Serena had given me. The connections appeared immediately. The bright threads crisscrossed my vision, and then, with a slight inflection, they vanished from sight just as quickly.
I was about to get up and look for the first book I found when I glanced at the box still in front of me. I blinked, seeing that there was still something in there. I reached in and pulled out a thick book. I turned it over and looked at the cover; there was nothing written on it.
I opened the book to the first page and my eyes widened slightly.
"D-Serena Prince's Diary," I said in a trembling shock.
"She gave you her personal diary?!" Hope asked in shock. I ignored her and shakily turned the page; my glasses did their job. The pages flew by as I began to read at breakneck speed.
The handwriting was old, unpolished, almost like a scratch compared to the elegant handwriting she used to write during her modern alchemy classes; that meant this book was really years old.
But most importantly, and to my surprise, it wasn't a diary as such. Or at least, it wasn't only that. It contained some of her memories and thoughts. The diary was dated July 16, 1977, but it also included some recollections of her Hogwarts years before that date and of her childhood.
But it was also a mixture of a little bit of everything. There were notes on potions, enchantments, curses, things she had created and jotted down in the margins of the pages with ease.
And it was also a book of stories. Like our conversations, it contained a lot of information, stories, descriptions of places, and fictional worlds. There were dozens of pages about devils, their Peerages, their subjects, the politics of the pillar devils, and much, much more.
And the book was deceptively long. It had many more pages inside than it initially appeared, so many that after a couple of minutes of reading with my new glasses, I hadn't even scratched the surface of the diary.
"Holly?" Pops asked, shaking my shoulder. I slammed the diary shut and looked up. "You've been reading it for a couple of minutes," Pops said playfully. I blushed slightly.
"It's... a fascinating read." I said, blushing.
"I'm sure reading the memoirs and thoughts of the person you love must be very... fascinating," Hope said mockingly. I blushed even more and glared at her.
"The glasses work, I can read incredibly fast," I said quickly, changing the subject. "It's... amazing," I said with a smile.
"Those were nice gifts from Serena, be sure to thank her," Mom said with a smile.
"They weren't that great," Dad said with a pout. "I gave you a broom," he grumbled, and I resisted the urge to roll my eyes. It was like the third broom he'd given me since I'd started at Hogwarts. Even after I wasn't on the Quidditch team anymore, he kept insisting. As if he didn't realize I'd left the team because of him—and he probably didn't.
"Yes, Mom, I'll make sure to thank you—" I stopped abruptly before letting out a panicked scream. "Don't buy anything from professor Prince!!" I squealed in a panic. Hope laughed, and so did Pops. Mom just looked at me calmly.
"Relax, Holly, I'm sure she wasn't expecting anything from you," Mom said calmly.
"That's worse!" I said incredulously, looking at her. Mom just smiled and shook her head.
"Then we should invite her to Christmas dinner," Mom said, clapping her hands. "As a thank you, right? " she asked with a smile. My eyes widened.
"What?! No! " Dad said incredulously. "You want to invite Serena Prince to Christmas dinner?!" Dad asked incredulously. I looked at Mom in shock.
"Yes, I overheard her talking to the other professors about her spending the day at Hogwarts. We can invite her," Mom said excitedly.
"It's a fantastic idea," Pops said, smiling.
"Oh come on! That's a terrible idea! You can't invite her!" Dad said incredulously. Mom just raised an eyebrow and crossed her arms.
"Can't I?" Mom asked indignantly before narrowing her eyes at Dad. "This is my house, it's my Christmas dinner, and I'll invite whoever I want, got it, James?" Mom asked dangerously. Dad shuddered slightly before pouting.
"But does it have to be fair to her?" Dad asked reluctantly.
"Yes, and you'll behave. She'll be our guest, so if necessary, keep your mouth shut for the entire dinner." Mom huffed before turning around, grabbing a piece of paper and a pen before starting to write.
"Um... I don't mean to be a spoilsport, but will the note reach the Professor in time? I don't think an owl can travel from Godric's Hollow to Hogwarts in a couple of hours," Hope asked, confused.
"Bathilda hired a house-elf to take care of her now that she can no longer care for herself due to her age. I'll go ask him if he can deliver the letter to Serena; it'll be faster," Mom said with a humming sound. "If not, I'll deliver the invitation myself," she added easily as she finished writing. I just stared in shock at how everything had been decided.
"Professor Prince is coming to the Christmas dinner." I murmured incredulously.
"And here we go." Hope said, but I ignored her.
"Professor Prince is coming to Christmas dinner here at our house!" I squealed again. "I need to get ready!" I yelled, jumping to my feet and running to my room immediately, still clutching my book. I had to get ready. I stopped halfway there. "Hope! I need your help! " I shouted into the living room. Hope giggled before coming into my room.
After a couple of hours, with Hope's help, I dressed nicely enough to welcome Serena to the party. I had chosen a light dress, nothing too extravagant, but it was a new dress that I hadn't had a chance to wear before.
I had gone downstairs and was in the living room waiting uncomfortably while pacing back and forth while glaring at Pops and Hope who were laughing at me every now and then, as if they were watching something extremely funny.
First, my dad's grandparents arrived. It was nice to see them, say hello, and chat with them. Shortly after, Pops' parents arrived. And finally, Sirius, Marlene, and Lyra. The house was a little noisy at this point, but pleasant.
It was at that moment that someone gently knocked on the door.
"Are we waiting for someone else?" Sirius asked with a lazy smile.
"Yes, a last-minute guest," Pops said with a smile before stopping and looking at Sirius. " And I expect you to behave, Padfoot. I mean it." Pops said, staring at him intently. Sirius's eyes widened slightly.
"Wait, what? Who did you invite? " Sirius asked, confused. Pops didn't answer; he just left the room and went to the door. I started bouncing excitedly. Finally, Pops came back with someone behind him.
"Everyone, this is Serena Prince, I'm sure you know her," Pops said happily.
"Oh no, not her!" Sirius said incredulously.
"Merry Christmas everyone, thank you for the invitation," Serena said softly as she looked around at everyone.
"Serena." Mom said, taking a step forward and staring intently at her.
"Lily," Serena said with a smile. "We haven't had a chance to talk at Hogwarts, it's been so long—" Serena's words were cut short when Mom hugged her tightly. Serena didn't hug her back, but she didn't pull away either. I pushed away the pang of jealousy I felt toward my own mother.
"It's good to see you again," Mom said, finally pulling away and smiling broadly. "Come on, dinner's almost over," Mom said cheerfully. Serena just nodded with a smile.
"I brought dessert," Serena said as she entered the kitchen. "I made treacle tart," she said, and my eyes widened slightly.
"My favorite!" I said without hesitation. "How did you know?" I asked in shock, bouncing with excitement. Serena smiled slightly and winked at me.
"Lucky guess," she said playfully. I glanced at her quickly.
"Same as the prescription of my new glasses?" I asked, raising an eyebrow as I touched the frames of my new glasses. She shrugged.
"Who knows, maybe that was magic compensating for the necessary graduation," she said playfully. I snorted.
"You gave me a list of all the enchantments you placed on them; there was nothing that would change their ranking," I said dryly. Serena's eyes sparkled slightly with amusement.
"Then, lucky guess." she added playfully. I snorted.
"Merry Christmas, Pro-Professor Prince." I said with a smile. She smiled gently and placed her hand on my head.
"Merry Christmas, Holly, I hope you liked the presents." She said softly, and I felt a wave of quality emanating from her hand and I felt a different kind of heat when I felt her gaze travel over my body.
"They were wonderful," I said with a smile. "Although I'm sorry I don't have any gifts for you," I said, slightly embarrassed. She shook her head.
"I'm fine, I wasn't expecting anything in return," she said simply. I just smiled gently and felt a pang of disappointment when her hand moved away from my head.
"Lady Prince," said Grandfather as he stepped forward. "I've never had the chance to thank you in person for the cure for dragon pox. Your potions saved my wife's and my lives, and we've been able to watch our granddaughter grow up, so thank you very much." Grandfather said as he extended his hand, which Serena shook in return.
"Only Serena, and it was a long time ago, you don't need to thank me, it was something I did occasionally," Serena said. The grandmother chuckled softly.
"I suppose that wasn't planned at all, was it? Unlike the last time we met?" asked Grandma amusedly. Serena giggled slightly.
"I have no idea what you're talking about," Serena said playfully.
"We also have to thank you, Lady Prince," Pops' father said, stepping forward. "You cured our son of his curse, that... was truly exceptional, especially because of... the relationship between you two. So, thank you, Lady Prince, you've allowed my son to enjoy a normal life." Pops' father said. Serena shook her head.
"I had my reasons for that, it wasn't altruistic at all, believe me," Serena said easily.
" And yet, my son recovered, and thanks to you, he has a beautiful family that he can't put in danger," he said easily.
"Dad." Pops complained, slightly blushing. Hope and I chuckled.
"Alright, let's sit down and eat!" Mom interrupted with a smile. To my surprise, Dad and Sirius were behaving wonderfully. Or well, wonderfully meant not speaking, but that didn't mean they couldn't glare at her until she was dead.
Meanwhile, Serena sat down next to me at the magically extended table, laden with all the prepared food. She answered questions with ease and chatted with everyone at the table; she had practically charmed everyone except Dad and Sirius.
"So, I heard you've taken Holly on as an apprentice," Grandpa said, taking a sip from his glass. Serena nodded.
"I did it, Holly is... wonderful, a very... dedicated student." Serena said slowly and playfully, I blushed completely, I could hear Hope laughing to the side.
"I'm sure it is," Dad teased. I sighed at the same time as Mom. And dinner had been going wonderfully so far.
"Oh, she is. She's very... diligent, very dedicated to learning, very enthusiastic," Serena said, her eyes sparkling. I blushed even more. For goodness sake—did I really have to say it like that?!
"What are you Insinuating, Prince!?" Dad blurted out, his eye trembling. Serena smiled innocently.
"Insinuating? I don't understand, Potter. I'm just mentioning that Holly has been very... receptive to my teaching methods," Serena said with an innocent smile. I blushed even more and looked down.
"Stop making those—those pauses!" Dad said incredulously. Serena giggled.
"I haven't the slightest idea what you're talking about, Potter. It's perfect intonation I'm using to demonstrate Holly's great qualities. Do you disagree?" Serena asked playfully.
"Yes! I mean, no! I mean, stop implying things! " Dad growled furiously, Serena just chuckled.
"Could I ask about what learning is?" Grandma interrupted, and I breathed a sigh of relief.
"A little bit of everything," Serena said easily. "I've had a few apprentices over the years. I... enjoy nurturing and teaching young minds to reach their potential. Holly has been nothing short of exceptional; she's a pleasure to work with."
"So we cover a little bit of everything: potions, enchantment, spells, alchemy, and even theories and debate. These last few weeks we've been discussing how the time travel done with the Time Turners from the Department of Mysteries is a perfect demonstration of Novikov's self-consistency principle," Serena said with a small smile. I saw several people at the table blink slightly.
"Oh, that's... really accurate," Mom said, blinking. "It's been proven and perfectly documented that time turners can't actually change the past, and you just end up causing exactly what happened, resulting in only events that are consistent with existing history," Mom said matter-of-factly.
"They're closed loops, everything happens exactly as it did, because someone decided to travel through time," I added easily. I remembered that particular conversation; Serena had been very detailed with the Time Turners for some reason. Even so, it had been a fascinating conversation, even with that almost hour-long discussion about the properties of the sands of time. Serena smiled slightly at that.
"Oh, but wouldn't that imply that free will doesn't exist?" Pops asked curiously. "If everything is already decided and everything happens as it should to maintain a common path to a 'predetermined' future, it implies determinism. It means there is only one possible sequence of events," Pops said easily.
"Ah, but determinism and free will are not incompatible. Free will exists, or at least, I like to believe it does, since magic itself does not control anyone's mind, or physically force anyone to follow certain things, so our decisions are ours and no one else's."
" Self-consistency simply means that there can be no paradoxes; that is, there are defined limits, let's say, a wall that cannot be crossed, and paradoxes are that wall," Serena said playfully. I snorted.
"And I already told you, if there's only one possible decision, then talking about choice is an illusion." I said dryly. Serena just smiled slightly.
"Ah, but there are many options. Let's say, what if we break down the wall? " Serena asked with a mysterious smile.
"Do you want to break the limit of paradoxes?" Pops asked curiously. Serena just shrugged.
"Hypothetically speaking," Serena gently corrected. "Let's say that, only for someone inside the system is it a closed loop, but for all of us it's self-consistent, because we're inside the system."
"But what if there were someone capable of observing everything in five dimensions? Someone capable of seeing space-time as a four-dimensional object? Then that observer would see all of history at once. Essentially, they would be on the other side of the wall," Serena said, her eyes sparkling.
"But how would we get past the wall?" I asked, genuinely curious. Serena smiled slightly and opened her mouth to answer.
"Aahh, enough! It's Christmas, not the time for this conversation, it's giving me a headache! Even more so than with Prince's mere presence! " Sirius grumbled, massaging his temple. I glanced around, and it seemed Marlene, Lyra, Hope, and Pops' parents were terribly confused, unable to follow the conversation.
"It's your own fault, Sirius. I was actually finding the discussion intellectually entertaining for the first time in years, unlike listening to you and James talk about Quidditch every Christmas," Gran said with amusement. Sirius just snorted and crossed his arms.
"That still doesn't explain why you took her on as an apprentice, Holly of all people, just for what? To talk about theories or teach her things she would have learned anyway? You're doing this on purpose." James growled. Serena just looked at him, confused.
"By the way? I really don't know what you're talking about. The things I teach her are from my own research; nothing is published, so very few people know about it. She can do whatever she wants with it once she graduates," Serena said matter-of-factly. My eyes widened.
"Wait, seriously?" I asked incredulously as I blushed, Serena just nodded.
"I expect excellence from my personal students; I wouldn't teach you something as useless as the standard curriculum," Serena said curtly. I blushed even more.
"Oh come on, admit it, you're doing all this to annoy me! You could never resist that! " Dad exclaimed incredulously. Serena just blinked a few times as she looked at him confused.
"I haven't the slightest idea what you're talking about, Potter," Serena said, genuinely confused. "Holly is extraordinary; it's a pleasure to teach her," she added gently. I blushed slightly.
"Don't pretend, you know what you're doing!" Dad growled once again.
"No, really," Serena said curtly. "I don't know why you're trying to make this all about you, Potter. You're arrogantly childish if you really think your daughter's education has anything to do with you or that it's some kind of revenge against you."
"The truth is, I haven't thought about you in centuries. It would be a complete waste of my time to dwell on something that happened so long ago. My time is more valuable than thinking about you," Serena said dryly. I blinked. In centuries?
"Yes, keep telling yourself that. I know what you are, I know what you're really like." Dad said, glaring at Serena. She just shook her head.
"It's really arrogant of you to assume such things, but I couldn't really expect anything else. It seems you haven't matured one bit since we were at Hogwarts. It's frankly pathetic," Serena said matter-of-factly. Dad stood up.
"What did you say, Snivellus?! I dare you to repeat it?! " Dad growled, and I looked at him in shock.
"James! Enough! " Mom snapped as she stood up.
"W-what- Lily?! You're taking her side!? " Dad asked incredulously.
"Yes! Because she hasn't done anything! Literally nothing! She's been sitting around talking to us, she didn't even look at you, for Merlin's sake!" Stop acting like a child! " Go to the bathroom to freshen up and don't come back until you learn how to behave! " Mom snapped, and Dad looked at her incredulously.
"Are you kicking me out? Like a child? " Dad asked incredulously.
"When you act like an idiot, yeah," Mom said, glaring at him. Dad just mumbled and turned to look at Pops, who just had his arms crossed and his brow furrowed, then finally turned to look at me, and I looked away.
"Fine!" Dad snapped, completely furious. He pushed the chair back forcefully before storming off towards the exit. Mom sighed wearily.
"I'm really sorry about that, Serena," Mom said with a sigh.
"Us too," Grandpa said with a sigh. Serena shook her head.
"Don't worry, really, nothing James says really matters or affects me. I... I already told him the last thing I had to say years ago," Serena said, shaking her head. Mom and Grandma and Grandpa sighed with relief. The conversation resumed smoothly. Although she could see Sirius frowning as he glared at Serena, the only reason he was stopping was because Aunt Marlene, beside her, was digging her nails into her arm.
Dad came back twenty minutes later and sat grumpily at the table without speaking to anyone; we all just ignored him.
"Thank you so much for the invitation, Lily, it was a wonderful dinner," Serena said gently. Mom shook her head.
"No, it was... it was good to see you again, after so long. It's... it's really good to see you, in better shape than the last time we met," Mom said gently. Serena just nodded.
"It is," Serena said simply before standing up. "It was a pleasure meeting you all, but I really must go; I have other commitments," she said with a smile.
"Then we won't keep you any longer," Pops said gently. "It was nice seeing you, Serena, properly and not while you're teaching," he added with a smile. Serena felt...
"Although before," Serena said, looking at me. "Where did you put the diary I gave you? There are a few things I'd like to recommend you read first." She said gently.
"Oh, it's in my room, I'll get it." I said without hesitation, standing up. I took two steps away from her before glancing shyly over my shoulder. "Oh... you could come here." I said shyly, blushing slightly. Serena giggled softly and nodded.
"Come on, I'll follow you," Serena said simply. I nodded before heading to my room. I opened the door and let her go in first, then I went in and closed the door. I quickly looked around to see if I had left anything messy or embarrassing. I sighed with relief when I found nothing but a couple of discarded items of clothing. Then I looked at Serena, who was staring intently at a wall.
I turned to see the poster of Serena in her underwear. My eyes widened in a blush, and I immediately turned to look at the poster.
"It's not what it looks like!" I squealed in a panic, completely flushed. Serena's smile grew wide and dangerously large.
"Seriously?" she asked playfully. I blushed even more.
"The diary!" I squealed in panic. Serena chuckled. I just walked away and looked for the diary she had given me; I had put it under my pillow.
"It's not much, really, it just has a password for… certain parts I didn't want anyone to see." She said gently. My eyes widened slightly.
"A password?" I asked in shock. She just nodded.
"Just place your wand and say the following date: July 16, 1977. That's when I started writing that diary," Serena said gently. My eyes widened slightly. "It contains... more personal, more private things, and some rather dangerous magic, along with many notes on ancient magic," she said. I stared in shock.
"Oh, wow, I'll... read it." I promised immediately, Serena smiled slightly.
"I hope so," Serena said softly. "Now, I really must go," she said with a look of regret.
"I understand, Professor. I... I'll see you back at Hogwarts." I said with a sigh of disappointment. She smiled slightly and nodded. She walked to the door and opened it, then glanced at me over her shoulder.
"By the way, Merry Christmas," she said, winking at me before looking at the poster of herself. I blushed even more.
"Merry Christmas, Serena." I said, embarrassed, as she left the room.
I was about to follow her to say a proper goodbye when I saw the poster move and I stopped. The poster was magical, yes, I had seen it move, but it was just slight movements of feet, hands, or her hair, nothing really large, just subtle movements that made the image come alive.
But now, for the first time, I saw the poster's image move even more. The poster winked at me flirtatiously before moving her hands behind her back, and my eyes widened as I saw her unhook her bra, then slowly take it off without revealing anything of her breasts pressed against her legs, finally throwing the bra away.
But it didn't end there. The image of Serena continued to move; she lifted herself slightly, her fingers sliding down to the panties she was wearing, and she began to slowly and seductively remove them. I watched as the offending garment slid slowly down her long, bare legs and finally tossed them aside.
Then the image returned to its position, now completely naked, still not showing anything explicit, but undeniably naked, looking a hundred times more obscene than before. I blushed completely in shock. I felt a hot flush rise in my lower stomach and quickly left my room and slammed the door shut.
"Serena! Professor!" I yelled in a panic as I rushed downstairs.
"Holly? Did something happen? Serena just left," Mom said, smiling. "Did she forget something?" she asked again.
"No!!" I shrieked. "Nothing!" I yelled again before turning around, completely flushed, and going back to my room. The image on the nude poster was still staring back at me with a flirty smile.
I couldn't let anyone see that poster. Not now, not ever.
-----------------
"Holly?" Pops called from behind my bedroom door. I jerked in a panic and looked toward the poster where I'd hung a makeshift curtain. I bit my lip before standing up and opening my door.
"Yes?" I asked, opening the door slightly.
"Can I come in?" Pops asked gently. I opened the door even wider and let him in, then closed the door behind him.
"What happened to the poster?" Pops asked playfully. I blushed slightly.
"I did it this morning!" I squealed quickly, embarrassed. "I didn't know if the Professor would come up to my room, and I really didn't want her to know I had a poster of her on my wall." I lied, completely mortified. Pops laughed.
"You like Serena," Pops said so casually. I could feel myself go pale as I felt slightly dizzy, and I could hear the sound of my own heart pounding in my ear.
"I-I don't know what you're talking about," I said quickly, much faster and higher-pitched than I should have been, my throat suddenly completely dry. Pops chuckled slightly.
"Calm down, Holly, you're not in trouble," Pops said gently as he placed his hand on mine, then guided me to my bed and we sat down. I blinked.
"No?" I asked so softly that she could barely hear me.
"No," Pops said gently. "We can't choose who we fall in love with." Pops said as he pulled me into a hug. I let him, snuggling into his arms. "Especially not when Serena looks like a model and you've been pining for her for years," Pops teased. I snorted.
"I wasn't sighing over her, it was admiration." I replied, and Pops chuckled slightly.
"You didn't reply that she looks like a model." Pops mocked. I sighed once more.
"You have eyes, did you see her? She's incredible. Those legs, that body, and for Morgana's sake, she's-"
"Tall?" Pops interrupted playfully. I glanced at him and rolled my eyes. "It's not the first time I've heard someone admire your height," Pops said with amusement.
"Who?" I asked jealously. Pops burst out laughing.
"Too soon to be jealous," Pops mocked. I punched him in the ribs. "Besides, it was 20 years ago, and Alice said it," Dad said playfully. My eyes widened, and I stared at him in shock.
"My godmother?!" I asked incredulously, Pops burst out laughing.
"Oh yeah, I think she mentioned that she was tall, three times in one sentence." Pops said playfully, and I huffed and pouted.
"It's sexy that she's tall, she's... imposing, she's sexy." I said with a slight blush. Pops made a muffled noise.
"As much as I don't mind your crush on Serena, I really don't want to hear details about it," Pops said dryly. I blushed even more, but I let out a little laugh.
"Too much for your sensibilities, Pops? And I haven't even mentioned her fingers." I said flirtatiously, blushing even more at what I was implying. Pops just snorted before poking my ribs with her fingers, making me burst out laughing. "Okay, okay, okay, don't last any longer! Stop it!" I said between laughs. Pops just snorted, but let go of me. "Doesn't it bother you that... that I'm in love with her?" I asked gently. Pops gave me a light hug.
"No," Pops said playfully. "A little weird? Yes. Very, actually. Having multiple wives... even though it's accepted in some magical communities, much more so than in the Muggle world certainly, it's still weird to me. And besides that, Serena is my age. We went to Hogwarts together; I literally grew up with her."
"So yeah, it's weird, I might not fully understand how it works, but... it doesn't bother me as such. You're a smart girl, Holly, you're still a 17-year-old teenager, becoming a wonderful woman, and this is a decision you have to make on your own," Pops said gently. I remained silent for a moment.
"Is it wrong that I want to have a relationship with her?" I asked gently.
"No," Pops said. I almost wanted to smile hopefully. "But I would tell you to think about it carefully," Pops said immediately. I stopped.
"Think about it?" I asked, confused.
"Holly, honey, she's married," Remus said gently. I bit my lip.
" Yes, I know, but-" I tried to say, but Pops just shook his head.
"I don't think you understand," Pops said gently. "You're not just entering into a relationship with Serena; you can't ignore all the extra baggage she has."
"I'm not just talking about her age, her experience, her life experiences, how well-rounded she is as a person, but about her relationships. She has a wife, possibly several, several lovers, and who knows what else."
"You're not just entering into a relationship with Serena, you're entering into a relationship with their wives, especially Bellatrix. I don't know what their relationship is like with the others, but with Bellatrix... they're bound together, Holly, by a rite of union."
"You've seen their wedding photos, and you've attended union rites, and I assure you, nothing compares to how powerfully magical the union rite of Serena and Bellatrix was."
"It's not that simple. There were some bonding rituals since their weddings, and it's been documented that they can both feel each other's souls, their thoughts; you'd hardly have any privacy with Serena."
"Love... is a wonderful thing, Holly," Pops said with a gentle smile as he stroked my hand. "But... it's not always enough." He sighed wearily. "You have to decide if your love is enough for everything else."
"If it's enough to have just a portion of her attention, if it's enough to see her with other partners, if it's enough to follow her wherever she goes. Serena has never settled down, she's traveled the world, and I doubt she will now."
"So, I'm not going to tell you not to fall in love with her, I'm just telling you to think carefully about whether she's worth all the weight and baggage that comes with it," Pops said gently. I just stayed silent because... what could I say?
Pops was right. As always. Serena Prince was married, by a bonding ritual; the same magic had bound her to another woman, Bellatrix Prince. Their souls, minds, and bodies were one, and there was no way to ignore that. And he also had other lovers, wives. He'd seen the pictures, some of them, not all, so who knows how many there were in total.
I… would I be able to accept being just another one in that crowd? Serena never talks about her wives, as if she avoids the subject, so I didn't know their dynamic. Were they all together? Did Serena dedicate a few hours a week to each of them? Were there internal conflicts among the wives like in those old novels? Would they… would they accept me? I would be the youngest to join, I didn't even come close to what many of them had experienced; they would see me as a child.
I bit my lip hard. Even with all that-
"Is it wrong that I still want to date her?" I asked softly and shakily. Pops laughed slightly.
"No," Pops said. "But I'd still tell you to take care of yourself. Not physically, but mentally and emotionally. Love is wonderful, but heartbreak can shatter even the strongest person. Take care of yourself, Holly, be smart, explore, but be careful." Pops said gently as he kissed my head. "And whatever happens... I'll always be here, you can always talk to me, never doubt that." Pops said. I blinked slightly.
"Thank you, Pops. I love you." I said while crying slightly and hugging him tightly.
"Me too, Holly, me too," Pops said. I could feel a warm sensation in my body as I felt safe in his arms.
We both remained silent while we hugged each other.
"You're going to tell Mom, aren't you? " I finally asked. Pops burst out laughing.
"Even if I tried, I can't hide anything from your mother; it's like she can smell lies and secrets," Pops said playfully. I pouted.
"Okay, but nothing... Dad, he... he won't understand... he never understands." I murmured wearily.
"Not a word to James, I promise." Pops said, hugging me tighter. I smiled slightly, feeling sleep claiming me as I snuggled against him. "By the way, since when is the Serena on your poster completely naked?" Pops asked teasingly.
"...this afternoon." I mumbled sleepily before waking up completely once again. "Don't look!!!" I squealed as I jumped up and covered Pops's eyes while he laughed. I glanced at the poster and saw the makeshift curtain lying on the floor. The Serena on the poster winked at me flirtatiously, and I blushed even more. "Get out of my room, Pops!" I yelled, embarrassed, as I started to push him. Pops laughed happily but let me push him out of the room.
I sighed as I closed the door behind him. I glanced at the poster one last time before sighing again. Even so, I smiled, remembering our recent conversation. I had a lot to think about, but knowing Pops was there for me made everything a little easier.
------------------
Holly Potter POV – June 26, 1998.
"Very well, congratulations everyone. As you know, this was the last class I'll be teaching, and you've all done wonderfully." Serena said with a smile as she stood in front of the class. "I'll be leaving Hogwarts soon, and I'll be busy for the next few months, so it will be difficult to contact me. If anyone still has a question, please ask it now." She said easily and then leaned back on her desk, waiting.
No one seemed to speak, but Serena just seemed to be waiting for something. Finally, a man, almost the same age as Pops and Dad, raised his hand firmly.
"Mr. Konrad Adler." Serena said with a nod. The man stood up and cleared his throat.
"I've attended every single one of these classes, I've read every book you've published on modern alchemy, you've taught us how to manipulate all the elements and transmute them into others with ease," Adler said carefully. "However… there are certain limits you've never spoken of, never denied, simply… omitted them, Professor. Was this a pedagogical decision, given that Hogwarts students were present, or… are there matters that even you consider beyond the scope of alchemy? " Adler asked, staring intently at the professor. "Or… are you simply unaware?" he added finally.
Serena simply stared boredly at the man with a completely disinterested look before finally sighing.
"You're talking about complete transmutation of the human body or soul, right? You're talking about human transmutation." Serena said easily, my eyes widening slightly as I looked at her.
"Human transmutation... it has a name." Adler said almost eagerly, with a dangerous mania. Serena snorted.
"Of course it has a name," Serena said, almost dismissively. "I created alchemy. Do you think I didn't study it thoroughly? That I didn't try to unravel every known limit of alchemy? I'm Serene Prince. I don't do anything halfway," Serena said, almost arrogantly.
"...is it possible?" Adler asked, almost hopeful.
"You want to bring someone back to life, don't you? " Serena asked gently. Adler's eyes gleamed. "No. It's not possible," the professor said sharply. Adler's expression hardened, and he gritted his teeth. "But you wouldn't believe me, would you? " the professor asked with a sigh. " Ah, what a shame, really. Several of you came here for exactly that. Do you think I don't know? You weren't exactly subtle. It's a pity you'll end up dead," Serena said matter-of-factly. We all froze in place.
"...is it a threat?" Adler asked cautiously.
"A warning," Serena said gently. "Human transmutation for the purpose of resurrection is impossible. Plain and simple." Serena stated with absolute certainty. "A soul that has left earthly life and gone on its way to the next adventure, let's say, can never be recovered by human or magical means. Any attempt to do so will result in a rebound effect due to the non-existence of a substance incapable of matching the value of a human soul and initiating a transmutation to an unattainable goal."
"Resurrection is impossible. Even if you believe that the value of one soul is equal to another and try to use them as an exchange, you are mistaken. The soul of the deceased is no longer in this world; alchemy will fail anyway. The dead stay dead. Trying to defy it has a price, a price decided by magic itself."
"And one you really wouldn't like to pay for. Resurrection is impossible." Serena said confidently as she looked at everyone. "Keep those words in mind, though I know you'll ignore them anyway. It was a pleasure teaching you all. You may leave." Serena said easily. Adler almost looked conflicted as he stared at Serena. The man finally clicked his tongue, gathered his things, and left.
And with that, everyone else followed suit.
"Well, things got dark," Pops said beside me. I could only nod. "But in these matters, I'd be inclined to believe Serena. It's a shame not everyone thinks that way," Pops said sadly. I bit my lip lightly.
"Come back first?" I said to Pops while looking at Serena. Pops just raised an eyebrow before laughing.
"Alright, I'll be at your mom's office." Pops said playfully, and I grimaced.
"For the love of—I hope they're not doing anything in there." I said with a grimace of disgust. Pops chuckled slightly.
"I'm not promising anything," Pops said before jokingly walking away. I rolled my eyes as I waited for everyone else to leave. Finally, it was just the headmaster, Serena, and me. I quickly approached.
"Do you really think they'll keep trying?" I asked cautiously as I approached them both.
"They will." They said at the same time. Serena seemed almost indifferent, while the headmaster sounded sad.
"People constantly fight against death, that... is something inherent in humans; they will look for ways to delay it, to cheat it, to circumvent it, or even to reverse it for a loved one."
"It's always been like this, and magic provides countless tools, none of which can truly achieve it, but all it takes is a tiny bit of hope to propel someone forward." Serena said, shaking her head.
"And no one who has played with death in that way has ever come out well; it's a shame. Such distinguished people... this may have been the last time we see them," the headmaster said sadly. I shuddered slightly.
"So..." I tried to say awkwardly. To my embarrassment, the headmaster laughed and stood up.
"I know when an old person is not needed in a room, I'll leave them alone." The headmaster said amusedly, Serena snorted.
"No, you don't know that, but I suppose you can learn new things despite your age," Serena said dryly. The headmaster laughed amusedly.
"Of course, I learned so much in your class, Serena. It was truly wonderful," the headmaster said, stroking his beard calmly. " And by the way, when you're finished, stop by my office before you leave. I'd like to say a proper goodbye," he added before turning and walking away.
"Let's go," Serena said easily as she created a portal to her room. She stepped through without hesitation, and I followed immediately. I went to a seat and sat down carefully. Serena sat next to me.
"Tomorrow... the train leaves tomorrow." I said, nervously licking my lips. "I suppose... you'll be leaving the country to investigate something else." I said with a grimace. She nodded.
"I will. My time in Britain is over," she said softly. I shuddered slightly.
"Will you come back?" I asked hopefully. She didn't say anything, just smiled slightly.
"So, what did you think of the diary? I suppose you finished it? " she asked, changing the subject. I felt a pang of pain at that, but I still smiled slightly.
"I did it, it was... enlightening." I finally said, then bit my lip. "Is... is it all true? About Dad?" About Mom? Those fights between you, everything that happened during your years at Hogwarts? " I asked without hesitation. She just nodded.
"They are. If you have any doubts, you can ask Lily or Remus; they should be able to confirm it," she said gently. I wanted to shake my head.
"I... how could Dad undress you in public, how could... Sirius use Pops like that just to hurt you?" I said in shock while shaking my head.
"Remember, I wasn't entirely innocent, Holly," Serena said gently. I just snorted.
"And yet, I don't think you've done anything to deserve... that. Besides... you've changed, you're practically a different person compared to the one written in the diary. Meanwhile, Dad and Sirius..." I said with a grimace. Serena laughed softly.
"I've changed, yes, a lot. I had to. So much time has passed, I've experienced so much, changing was inevitable," Serena said, her eyes shining. I stared at her.
"Will you... will you tell me? About the things you've been through? I... want to know everything about you." I said without hesitation and looked her directly in the eyes.
"Even if I leave?" she asked, her gaze lingering on my lips. I could feel my chest heave. I clasped my hands together, focusing on her. This was... this was my last chance. I had to tell her.
"I... even then," I murmured. "I... want to go with you. I... like you, I... want to go with you." I said, almost pleadingly. Serena just stared at me without blinking, and I was completely lost in her eyes.
We both remained silent, and I gazed directly into Serena's eyes, completely captivated, before my gaze shifted to her lips, just inches away. I could hear my heart pounding before I swallowed audibly, then made a Herculean effort to look back into Serena's eyes, which seemed to glow with desire. My breath came in ragged gasps before I closed my eyes and leaned in slightly.
I could feel Serena's breath on my face, and-
A finger had been placed on my lip, she immediately opened her eyes confused only to see Serena standing slightly away with her finger on my lips.
"We can't," Serena said softly. I looked at her, completely devastated, a sharp pain piercing my chest.
"What? Why not? But… but we were—did I…did I do something? I asked quickly, blinking slightly. Is it because I look like Dad? Or is it something I did, was I too fast? I-I can wait! " I said quickly while stammering. Serena smiled slightly.
"You didn't do anything, you're perfect." Serena said, gently caressing my cheek.
" So ?" I asked, trembling. "I thought... I thought you wanted it," I said uncertainly.
"Oh darling, I do." Serena said huskily, her raspy voice made me shudder slightly and I bit my lip.
"So?" I asked again.
"But are you really sure about this?" Serena asked gently. "Being with me isn't easy. You know I have wives, you know I travel very often. If you decide to stay in Britain, we might not see each other for weeks, and if you come with me, you most likely won't see your family," Serena said honestly. "And there's so much more—so many secrets, things you have to catch up on, decades of secrets," she added.
"I want to do it," I said without hesitation. "I... I already knew about it, but I still want to. I... I talked to Pops about it... he told me the same thing, that... that I should think about it, that I should consider all the implications, everything... the baggage. And I did, I really did, and I want to do it." I said firmly, looking her straight in the eyes. Serena just looked at me and finally laughed softly.
"You're truly stunning," Serena said softly, then leaned down and kissed my forehead. "So, one last thing," she said as she stood up, picked up a small wooden box, and handed it to me. "Go to an empty room, open this, you'll understand everything when you see inside. If you're still sure, when you see me next time, kiss me." Serena said calmly before leaning down and standing just inches from my face. "When we kiss, you'll be completely mine, and I don't let go of what's mine. You'll be completely mine, so think carefully, my little flower." Serena said huskily.
I shuddered slightly and blushed deeply. The possessiveness in her husky, deep voice, the dark eyes that gazed as if I were already hers and nothing could change her mind, was terribly… sexy. I felt a surge of excitement at it.
"I-I just have to open this?" I asked excitedly. Serena stepped back and nodded.
"Go ahead, you'll understand everything. I'll be waiting for you. Whatever you choose, I'll accept it, but I'll be waiting," Serena said gently. "If you accept... you'll have to start from the beginning, but I know you'll enjoy the journey," she said playfully. I looked confused, but nodded. I took the box shakily before walking uncertainly out of the room.
Once outside, I swallowed audibly before practically running into the first empty room I found. Ignoring all the clutter, I crouched down in the middle of the room. I reverently placed the box on the floor and examined it closely.
I took a deep breath before gently opening it. I blinked as I looked at the object in front of me. Inside the box was a… pocket watch? It had what appeared to be a dragon on the top of the lid. I carefully picked it up, admiring the fine craftsmanship.
I carefully opened it and stopped abruptly. It wasn't a clock… at least, not a normal one. There was a small hourglass embedded where the hands should have been.
…a Time-Turner ? I had read about them, but this was the first time I'd seen one, but still, this seemed… more elegant? I touched it carefully and finally looked at the back cover, where there were some things that looked engraved on the lid.
Don't Forget, July 16, 1977
July 16, 1977. Was there… something special about that date? I frowned before looking at the Time-Turner, then my eyes opened wide and suddenly everything seemed to fall into place.
The diary. It was dated July 16, 1977, but… there's never an entry for that date. They're all memories and recollections from before that date.
Time travel involves closed loops. Serena mentioned time travel as if it were merely an intellectual curiosity.
"Go ahead, you'll have to start from the beginning, but I know you'll enjoy the journey." Those were her last words. To start from the beginning, to begin and relive the last 20 years in the past, to live them alongside her.
Starting July 16, 1977. There were no dates after that date because I'm supposed to travel on that date.
Serena's attitude, the flirting, the warm, affectionate looks as if she'd known me for ages. The way she seemed to know about my tastes and things that mattered to me, and she simply justified it as 'lucky guessing'. It all made sense.
And then I remembered the photo. The photo I'd glanced at and whose woman I thought I recognized, just as Serena interrupted me, now seemed to have been meant to be. The woman had black hair, green eyes, and round glasses. I was the woman in the photo. Only older.
A closed loop. July 16, 1977. 20 years old. I would marry Serena, or I had already married her.
The pull I always felt in my chest, the magic that drew me to her. I was married, the magic recognized it, but until now I hadn't known what that pull meant. The connections were timeless; I could feel my connection to her even without knowing what it was. I'd been able to feel it for as long as I could remember.
I felt my chest pound at all the implications of that.
She could use the watch. Free will existed, Serena had said so. Whatever she chose. She could choose. Connections could be broken, she'd said so, the pull … it could disappear if she chose not to. But if she did… If she chose to go back 20 years, to a couple of months after her marriage to Bellatrix Prince, when she was just beginning to make her mark on history, she could relive the last 20 years with her. She just had to use the watch.
I licked my dry lips.
Twenty years. I'd be gone for twenty years. No one would notice. I could return to this point. My other self could appear the moment I needed it. That would mean my family wouldn't miss me. But... but I would miss her. I wouldn't be able to get close to them for twenty years. That... was a long time.
Serena said it herself, the journeys would be long, weeks or months, no… not 20 years. Or more… or much more. Some of Serena's comments seemed to indicate it was more than 20 years, and with the existence of this Time-Turner, then… who knows how long it really would be.
But… but I wouldn't miss a thing. I could go back, I could pick up where I left off when time allowed, I could keep watching my sister grow up, be with my parents when they get old. I… I would be their age, or older, the next time we met. That… that was a lot.
I took a shaky breath before placing the watch inside the box. I breathed heavily as I closed the box, stood up, and immediately ran to Serena's room. I entered without even knocking; the door wasn't locked, and—it was empty, completely empty.
Serena had no belongings; there was no need to have placed the photos there, unless she intended for me to find them. She had been leaving clues all year. I stopped and stared at where the photographs had been when I saw a small piece of paper. I reached for it and grabbed it.
"The decision is yours, you can choose, whatever you choose, make sure it's a decision you can live with without regret."
I read the paper once, twice, three times and breathed raggedly. I gripped the box tightly. Finally, I left Serena's room and headed to Mom's. I was about to open it when I remembered Pops was there. I glared at the door before slamming it shut.
"If you're Holly, come in!" Mom's voice said easily. I huffed and carefully opened the door and cautiously looked around. Pops laughed at me as he sat next to Mom.
"Hi honey, did you say goodbye to Serena?" Mom asked with a smile. I went into the room and closed the door. I bit my lip uncomfortably.
"Can we... talk? Seriously? " I asked carefully. Mom stopped and nodded, as did Pops.
"Of course, honey, what do you want to talk about?" Mom asked gently. "Is it... about your feelings for Serena? Did you confess? " Mom asked, almost excited. My eyes widened slightly.
"I guess Pops really did tell you, right? " I asked timidly. Mom snorted.
"I'm upset that you didn't come to me about something like this," Mom said, pouting.
"Annoying is an understatement," Pops said playfully. "You cried when I told you, you were mad that Holly told me first, you looked indignant when you remembered Serena and that she had multiple wives, then you got mad again and then you threatened and threatened to go after Serena, and when I stopped you, you made me sleep on the living room couch for weeks." Pops said dryly. Mom snorted and crossed her arms.
"That's what you get for keeping a secret from me," Mom said childishly. I blinked.
"Wait, you've been sleeping on the sofa? But Mom sleeps at Hogwarts during the week." I said incredulously. Pops snorted while Mom looked very proud of herself.
"I cursed every bed in the house so Remus couldn't sleep on any of them," Mom said proudly. I stared at her incredulously while Pops wore a defeated expression.
"It was easier to sleep on the couch than to break the curses," Pops said dryly. I snorted, amused.
"So... getting back to the topic." I said, clearing my throat. They both looked serious as they stared at me.
"Did she... did she accept your feelings?" Mom asked cautiously. I grimaced.
"I tried... to kiss her. She rejected me." I said, pouting. Mom opened her eyes and looked almost indignant.
"Serena... rejected my daughter?!" Mom asked incredulously. I chuckled.
"She refuses my kiss," I explained to Mom. "She... she wants me to go with her, even travel, to meet her wives, to see... how I get used to the group before I accept anything." I said gently. That made her stop.
"That's... pretty clever," Pops said gently.
"It seems like something she does quite often." Mom snorted. Pops shrugged.
"It doesn't change the fact that she's smart. This way, Holly stays out of it for a while to see if the dynamic is too much for her before she agrees. It's a way of keeping her safe," Pops said gently. Mom nodded.
"When... are you going on a trip?" Mom asked, and I squirmed slightly.
"Now," I said honestly. Both of our eyes widened slightly.
"Now?" Mom asked, surprised. I nodded and gripped the box in my hands tighter. I... I could wait. I had the Time-Turner ; I could use it another day. Serena hadn't said I needed to use it today. But... if I waited, if I kept waiting, I might lose the courage to do it. "Serena, she's... leaving now. She wants me to go with her. She said the trip will last weeks, maybe a couple of months. She should be back before the next school year," I said gently.
"Oh," Mom said gently. "So soon?" she asked, almost trembling.
"I'm sorry," I said quickly. "Serena's trip was planned months ago. It's important, and she can't change it for me." I lied slightly. Mom trembled slightly as she stood up and hugged me tightly. I hugged her back. I could feel Pops hug me from behind.
"Go," Mom said gently. "It's... something you have to do, something you want to do, I know, I'm not going to stop you." Mom said as her hug grew tighter.
"I'm sorry," I murmured once more. "I... I'll try to write, but I don't know where we'll go. I can send an owl. I... I'll miss you both so much." I said honestly, while crying lightly. I hugged Mom, possibly the last hug I'll receive from her for many years.
"Me too, darling, we'll be waiting for you, with or without Serena," Mom said tremulously.
"Remember, darling, be smart. Anything, send a message or a Patronus. We'll come find you anywhere in the world if we have to," Pops said firmly. I nodded.
"I will," I said honestly. We stayed embraced for several minutes, and I made no effort to pull away. I wanted the embrace to last as long as possible. I tried to memorize the warmth of both of our embraces as if they were melting into my own skin.
Finally, we separated slightly.
"Don't tell Dad, okay? " I practically begged. Mom and Pops snorted.
"We won't tell him, darling," Mum promised. "James... he's a good man, most of the time his heart is in the right place, although sadly he hasn't matured since Hogwarts."
"I... I spent years thinking he was just joking, that he was immature and that he'd grow out of it. There were times when I really believed it. But it was just me making excuses because it was easier than admitting that sometimes he's just cruel." Mom sighed wearily. My eyes opened slightly.
"Oh... I wasn't expecting that," I said honestly. Mom snorted and smiled slightly.
"There's a reason I didn't end things with him, Holly. During my last years at Hogwarts, I thought about giving him a chance, but... some things just opened my eyes. Luckily, I didn't have to look far to find the love of my life," Mum said gently as she leaned towards Remus and kissed his cheek. Pops blushed slightly.
"That's as disgusting as it is sweet," I said with a grimace. They both laughed at me.
"We're getting used to you being in love with a woman our age, someone we've known for over 20 years, and you can't stand to see me kiss your father's cheek?" Mom mocked. I pouted.
"It's different. They're my parents, it's disgusting by nature," I said with a pout. They both giggled slightly before hugging me at the same time.
"We love you, daughter. Good luck on your trip," Mom said once more.
"I love you both too, very much." I said with all the love I could muster.
"We're so proud of you, Holly, for going after what you want. You're extraordinary, don't forget that. Let Serena know and make sure she doesn't treat you as anything less than you deserve," Pops said affectionately. I smiled tearfully.
"Yes, I'll ask for princess treatment for all the problems," I said playfully.
"At the very least," Mom said, joining in the joke. I sighed warmly.
"I love you. I'll miss you, but... I have to go." I said with a sigh. I stepped away from them and looked at them fondly, but even so, I couldn't contain the excitement that had arisen from the trip. They both noticed and laughed.
"Go on, honey. We'll be waiting for you." Mom said, clinging to Pops, who just nodded with a soft smile.
"I'll be back," I told them both with a smile before leaving the room. I could hear Mom sobbing as Pops started to comfort her. I sighed shakily before starting to walk. I bit my lip before heading towards the Gryffindor common room.
I didn't even bother knocking; I handed the password to the portrait and went inside, immediately looking for Hope. She seemed surprised, but after taking her to her rooms and locking us in her bed with the canopy and various privacy screens, I said goodbye to her as well.
Hope seemed to be crying and making jokes at the same time. I was the same. After several minutes, I also pulled away from her after hugging her tightly and feeling her warmth once more.
Finally, I left the Gryffindor common room and headed to the headmaster's office. The headmaster had been like a grandfather to me, teaching me for years, so saying goodbye was just as sad. I couldn't even contain myself and hugged him tightly.
With all that done, I began to wander through the castle for several minutes, taking in everything around me until I found an empty room. I took a deep breath as I picked up the box once more and removed the watch.
I placed the watch around my neck, then opened it and slowly traced the hourglass with my fingers before gently turning it. With a single twist, the watch began to move on its own. It started spinning at an enormous speed before stopping. Then I felt as if my entire body was twisting and turning as I was sucked through space. I could see the world blurring as it moved and finally stopped, and I fell to the ground.
I stood up shakily before looking around. Was I… in front of a mansion? I looked around; I was surrounded by a forest. Honestly, it was beautiful, but I had no idea where I was. Then I looked up, and my eyes widened.
The sky was covered by a cobalt blue sphere that covered most of it. It was… what the hell was that? I looked around, not understanding where I was.
"Who are you, and how did you get into the mansion?" a voice asked. My heart pounded. I recognized the voice immediately, though it sounded more immature, more… younger. I turned to see Serena Prince; she was frowning as she looked at me cautiously.
She looked… young, different, and almost the same. The Serena Prince I had known didn't look older than her early twenties; it was incredible how young she looked for being almost 40. But the Serena Prince in front of me looked even younger than that, she looked my age, and she had an air… not childish, but… inexperienced, as if she lacked the same maturity despite being the same person.
It worked. I had traveled 20 years into the past. I was standing before a Serena my age, just beginning her journey. I swallowed audibly, gathered all my courage, and stepped forward.
"I'm Holly Potter, I'm from 20 years in the future, and I'll be your wife," I said confidently. Serena Prince stopped, and I smiled. I took long strides in her direction. She seemed to tense up, but she didn't do anything to stop me.
"Potter, you say?" she asked, confused, slowly. I ignored her, stood in front of her, and she barely flinched. I didn't even hesitate as I obeyed the voice in my head. "When you see me next time, kiss me." So I did.
I leaned in and claimed her lips. I felt like my world was exploding.
Yes… I was right where I was supposed to be.
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Author's Notes: And here we are! After 24k words! I really hope you liked it.
Now, a few things. Who knew it would end up involving time travel? I've left clues! Now, why time travel, you might ask?
Okay. If I wanted to make this canonical and relevant, there were three options. This one, meaning Holly travels to the past. The second, having young Serena go to the future, and that could practically be a whole arc, but I liked this version better. And the last one, placing it as an epilogue, since this happens 20 years later only for the magical world. For Serena, I've also left clues; centuries have passed in other worlds, so this would practically be during the epilogue.
So time travel was one of the few options to make this relevant.
Unfortunately, that meant I couldn't write James and Sirius having an aneurysm when they found out I was dating Serena. That'll have to wait for the future if I decide to make it canon.
Now, putting that aside. As you may have read, despite writing all the important points, I would have liked to write more about this. A few more private lessons, more conversation between Holly and Serena, more interactions between James/Sirius and Serena, between Remus/Lily and Serena, and all that. I didn't want to focus too much on James during the chapter because I preferred to make this whole omake completely about Holly.
I also would have liked to write about Holly and her interactions in Slytherin, about the friends she had, and other things. I simply had so many ideas, but if I had written them all down, this would be much longer.
Luckily, I managed to write all the important points I wanted to. There were some that weren't necessary, like the parts about alchemy; they were simply to give some context, but I felt that it would just feel very incomplete to simply skip over it.
Even so, I'm satisfied with all this writing, so I really hope you like it, and I'm sorry for the ridiculously long length. Or not if you really enjoyed it.
If you want this to be canon, just mention it and I'll include Holly. It doesn't really bother me, and Serena still has pawns to add, so there's time to consider it. If I calculated the dates correctly (which I doubt), Holly would appear in the Underworld after the Young Demons Tournament ends, so there are still a couple of arcs to go. (If I'm wrong about the dates, I'll just come back and correct them here.)
By the way, here's a small AI-generated image of Holly:
https://imgur.com/a/6Km17hh
So, that's it. Thanks for reading.
A/N: If you liked the story, join my patreon, patreon.com/Camellya_Addams, there are up to 10 chapters in advance, thank you. Or you can also visit my Ko-Fi, ko-fi.com/camellya_addams.