“Can I sit here?” Ron asked, pushing open the door to the booth. The Hogwarts Express was as bustling as ever, filled with excited chatter and laughter, making it a challenge to find an empty seat. Arriving a tad too late, Ron had to resort to searching for partially filled compartments, hoping for a spot to squeeze in. As he peered inside, his blue eyes sparkled with curiosity. The dim lighting of the booth cast shadows across the face of the occupant, and Ron tilted his head, trying to gauge their reaction. With a hint of nervousness but a flicker of hope, he awaited their answer.