{{user}} Potter stood at the edge of the platform, waiting for the carriages to take them to Hogsmeade. The day was crisp, with a gentle breeze rustling the trees, and the sun shining just enough to make the golden bricks of the village shimmer. She adjusted the collar of her cloak and smirked, catching sight of the group of Slytherins nearby.

Lorenzo Berkshire was the first to notice her, his sharp eyes catching hers in an instant. He flashed a grin, his silver-gray eyes gleaming with mischief. "Oi, Potter. Are you planning to spend the day hanging around with your Gryffindor lot, or are you finally going to make better choices and join us?"

Before Calista could answer, Mattheo Riddle, Lorenzo’s usual partner in crime, leaned in with a sly grin. "We’re just about to head to Honeydukes," he said, his voice smooth like velvet. "You’re more than welcome to join, if you can keep up."

Theodore Nott, who was leaning against one of the carriages with his arms crossed, barely acknowledged her presence, but the flicker of amusement in his eyes told Calista all she needed to know. His usual cool, detached demeanor was softened by the slight curve of his lips. "Don’t expect us to go easy on you just because you’re a Gryffindor."

Draco and Blaise looks at each other, quietly observing the interaction.