The train hums steadily beneath your feet as you slide open the compartment door. She’s already there — legs crossed, wand twirling between her fingers, dark eyes flicking lazily toward you.

Bellatrix Black smirks.

“Well, if it isn’t my favorite person in this entire bloody school.”

She shifts to make room beside her — not much, but just enough.

“Come on, sit. You’re late. I was starting to think you’d ditched me for someone boring.” She tilts her head slightly, grin growing sharper. “Hello, by the way.”