my heart knows what the truth is

✦

"The incantation is Expecto Patronum," Professor Chauvet announced. "Wands away everyone, repeat after me; Expecto Patronum!"

Celeste chanted along with the rest of the class, some more or less enthusiastic. She glanced to the side, where the marauders looked bored out of their minds. She rolled her eyes in an amused manner when Sirius grinned at her cheekily.

"Clearly now everyone," the professor continued. "The Patronus Charm requires joyous thoughts and memories. You build up strong feelings of happiness and if you're lucky, you'll be able to cast a corporeal patronus. When magic takes form in your... spirt animal. Now I don't expect you to get it right on the first try, most adult wizards can't produce even a sliver of light. I'd like for you to try and practice the spell for a few minutes."

Hesitant murmurs rose in the classroom before four proud voices rang out, "Expecto Patronum." A dog, stag, rat and wolf of blue light sprang from each of the marauders wands and leaped about the air.

"Wonderful," Professor Chauvet applauded. "10 points to the each of you. Now, the rest of you!" The boys leaned back into their seats and watched the scenes before them unfold.

Celeste frowned at her wand. She couldn't recall a single memory that was strong enough. Her time at Hogwarts had been splendid so far, and it was easily the best year of her life. "Expecto Patronum," she whispered. Her recent memories filled her with a warm and fuzzy feeling, but only wispy light streamed out gently and faded away within seconds.

"Expecto Patronum," Lily said firmly for the second time. The tip of her wand grew brighter and brighter before out burst a magnificent silver doe. It trotted over the tables before looking directly at James. It tilted it's head curiously before fading away.

"Stunning work Miss Evans," Professor Chauvet praised. "Take another 10 points for Gryffindor."

Among most of the other students, Celeste was unsuccessful. By the time class was let out, she was still upset about it.

"It's alright," Sirius assured her. "Loads of people couldn't get it in class."

"You did," Celeste argued. "Flawlessly, and you hardly blinked."

"Only because I've practiced before. And it took weeks to get right."

She sighed and brushed it off. "Also, I was wondering if you'll come with me to Slughorn's Christmas party. We're supposed to bring a guest."

"Sure," Sirius grinned. "Should we have matching outfits too? I'm thinking-"

"Siri!" a loud voice squealed happily. A girl in a year lower than them bounded straight for Sirius.

Sirius sighed impatiently and turned towards her. "Hello Stephanie."

The girl rolled her eyes flirtishly and let loose a high pitched giggle. "It's Olivia, actually." She pouted and blinked her eyes violently in an attempt to bat her eyelashes. "I was wondering, if you'd like to go to Hogsmeade next weekend with me."

Celeste felt herself begin to stiffen. It was a strange and new feeling.

"No thanks," said Sirius bluntly. "See you later Oliver." He hooked his arm around Celeste's and led her away. Olivia stood dumbfounded, watching the two turn the corner and leave.

"You aren't saying anything," Sirius noted.

Celeste had a triumphant glint in her eyes. "Should I be saying something?" Grinning knowingly, Sirius wrapped an arm around her waist. A fluttering feeling exploded in Celeste's stomach at once. All of her words died at the back of her throat. She wanted so desperately to be closer to him, but embarrassment held back her tongue.

"You were saying?" Sirius said, tightening his hold.

She cleared her throat, hoping to change the subject.

•─────⋅☾ ☽⋅─────•

"Someone help me tie this- thanks." Lily stood before the floor length mirror as Celeste expertly helped tie her corset.

"I hate those things," Marlene wrinkled her nose and folded her arms. "Thank Merlin I wasn't invited to Slughorn's party. Or any at all."

The girls laughed before excitedly watching Celeste open three trunks that she hadn't unpacked. They hadn't even been opened yet. Unlocking the trunks, she laid out several choices. "What to pick?" she murmured.

"That one would look wonderful with the piece you keep in your safe," Alice spoke earnestly.

"It would," Marlene agreed, impressed at what still remained in the trunks. "Holy shite is that-" She exclaimed with a laugh.

Celeste grinned and peered into it. "It is, but I think I'll save that for another time."

Lily pulled Celeste away, hurrying her. "Quickly, or we'll be late!"

Slipping the shining dress over herself, she hurried to her vanity and very gently took out her prized accessory.

Within minutes, Alice and Marlene nodded approvingly at Lily and Celeste. Lily was wearing her signature green, in silk that trailed to the floor like running water. With one last wave, the two girls dashed out the dormitory.

"Did you ever ask anyone to be your date?" Celeste asked as they made their way down the stairs.

"No, unfortunately," Lily frowned as if suddenly remembering it.  Before they could say any further, they reached the bottom of the stairs and came to a halt.

Sirius and James had reached the bottom of the boys' stairs the same time as the girls.  

"Celeste," Sirius stammered, too stunned to speak.

"Sirius," she returned, a small smile etched on her lips.