The next day

Ron approached Oliver with a concerned look on his face as they prepared to head to the Leaky Cauldron.

"Hey, Oliver," Ron began tentatively. "You seem a bit on edge. Everything alright?"

Oliver glanced at Ron, appreciating his concern. "Yeah, I'm okay," he replied, his voice tinged with a hint of exhaustion. "Just had a lot on my mind lately."

Ron nodded understandingly. "Is it about what happened the other night?" he asked quietly.

Oliver hesitated for a moment before nodding. "Yeah, partly," he admitted. "But it's also... everything else. Sometimes it feels like I'm juggling too many things at once."

Ron nodded sympathetically, placing a reassuring hand on Oliver's shoulder. "We all get overwhelmed sometimes," he said reassuringly. "But you don't have to carry it all alone, mate. We're here for you."

Oliver managed a faint smile, grateful for Ron's support. "Thanks, Ron," he said sincerely. "I appreciate it."

Ron clapped him on the back lightly. "Anytime, Oliver," he said with a smile. "Let's head to the Cauldron. A Butterbeer might do us all some good."

Together, they joined the rest of their friends, hoping for a moment of relaxation and camaraderie amidst the challenges they faced.

At the Leaky Cauldron

Oliver and Ron sat at a table in the Leaky Cauldron, sipping on butterbeer and engaged in conversation.

Hermione approached their table with a smile, and Ron greeted her playfully, "Well if it isn't the little one who keeps Oliver on his toes. Care for a drink?"

Hermione chuckled at Ron's remark and took a seat beside Oliver. "Thanks, Ron," she said, accepting the offer. Turning to Oliver, she asked with genuine concern, "How are you feeling, Ollie? You seemed a bit off earlier."

Oliver glanced at Hermione, appreciating her perceptiveness. "I'm okay," he replied softly, then looked down at his butterbeer thoughtfully. "Just a lot on my mind, you know?"

Ron nodded understandingly. "Yeah, we were just talking about that," he said, shooting Oliver a supportive glance. "You know we're here for you, mate."

Oliver managed a small smile, touched by their concern. "Thanks, both of you," he said gratefully. "I guess I've been feeling a bit overwhelmed lately."

Hermione placed a reassuring hand on Oliver's arm. "It's okay to feel that way," she assured him gently. "We all do sometimes. You don't have to carry everything alone."

Oliver nodded, feeling a sense of relief at their understanding. "I know," he said quietly. "Thanks for being there."

They sat together in comfortable silence for a moment, the warmth of friendship easing the weight on Oliver's shoulders.

Ron leaned forward slightly, his expression earnest. "I know you've got a lot on your plate, mate. It's tough, especially with Hermione looking out for you. But remember, we're all here for you. You can talk to us."

Hermione interjected, a touch of concern in her voice. "I don't always get on you, do I?"

Oliver remained silent, taking a sip of his butterbeer as he contemplated his response.

Seeing Oliver's hesitation, Hermione's expression softened. "I'm sorry if I come across that way," she apologized gently. "I never meant to..."

"It's okay, Hermione," Oliver interrupted softly, setting his drink down to reassure her. "I didn't want to upset you by saying anything."

Hermione smiled warmly at him. "You'd never hurt me," she insisted.

Oliver sighed, his gaze drifting momentarily. "I have hurt you," he admitted quietly. "Every time I go out there as Arrow. People call him The Hood for a reason."

Ron nodded sympathetically, understanding the weight of Oliver's words. "But you're doing what you believe is right, mate," he pointed out. "Trying to make a difference."

Oliver nodded, appreciating Ron's understanding. "Yeah," he agreed quietly. "I just wish it didn't always feel like it's tearing me apart."

Ron nodded thoughtfully, his brow furrowed in concern. "I get it, mate. Balancing all this... it's not easy."

Hermione reached out, placing her hand gently on Oliver's arm. "You don't have to carry this burden alone, Oliver," she said softly. "We're here for you, all of us."

Oliver looked at Hermione, gratitude and love shining in his eyes. "I know," he said sincerely. "And I appreciate it more than you know."

Ron glanced between them, his expression filled with empathy. "Maybe... you could find a way to do this without it taking such a toll on you," he suggested tentatively. "I mean, there's got to be a balance, right?"

Oliver sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. "I wish it were that simple," he admitted, his voice tinged with frustration. "But every time I think about stepping back, I see all the things that still need to be done. All the people who need help."

Hermione nodded understandingly. "It's your sense of duty," she said softly. "But even heroes need to take care of themselves."

Oliver looked down at his hands, the weight of their words sinking in. "I know," he murmured. "I'll try... to find that balance."

Ron clapped him on the shoulder, offering a supportive smile. "That's all we ask, mate," he said warmly. "Take care of yourself. We'll handle the rest."

Oliver managed a small smile, touched by their unwavering support. "Thanks, guys," he said gratefully. "I don't know what I'd do without you."

Hermione leaned in and kissed his cheek gently. "You'll never have to find out," she promised, her voice filled with love and determination.

As they sat together, the weight of Oliver's burden felt a little lighter, knowing he had his friends by his side.

Oliver leaned his head against Hermione's shoulder, seeking comfort in her presence. She responded by gently resting her head against his, their closeness a silent reassurance amidst the challenges they faced. Together, they found solace in each other's company, a brief moment of peace amid their tumultuous lives.

"Hey, guys," came a voice, interrupting their moment.

Oliver hesitated to move, content in Hermione's presence, but she turned and saw Tommy smirking at them.

"Oh, don't you two look cute together," Tommy teased. "Should I start getting ready for the wedding? Or perhaps prepare to be the Godfather of a child?"

Hermione rolled her eyes playfully at Tommy's jesting, nudging Oliver gently as she replied, "Oh, come on, Tommy. We're just enjoying a moment here."

Oliver managed a smirk, shooting back, "Wedding's a bit premature, buddy."

Tommy chuckled and sat down with them, the atmosphere lightening with his easygoing presence.

Hermione asked teasingly, "So, you wouldn't marry me if I asked you right now?"

Oliver responded softly but earnestly, "Mia, I'd marry you in a heartbeat." His eyes held a warmth that matched his words, reaffirming his love and commitment to her.

Mrs. Weasley overheard their exchange and chimed in warmly, "How about you both wait until next year when you're both 16? Okay?" Her tone was both teasing and affectionate, blending maternal concern with a touch of humor.

Oliver exclaimed, "We can?" with a mixture of surprise and excitement.

Ron teased, "Oh, boy, he's gonna ask Hermione to marry him next year."

Tommy grinned mischievously, adding, "Yes! I want to be the fun uncle, okay?"

Hermione chuckled, shaking her head. "We're not having a kid yet, Tommy."

Tommy feigned disappointment, muttering, "Damn it," in a mock-sad tone, eliciting laughter from everyone at the table.

Oliver asked with curiosity, "Yet? What do you mean 'yet' for a kid?"

Hermione chuckled softly and replied, "Well, eventually, maybe. But not anytime soon, Tommy." She glanced over at Tommy with a playful smile.

Tommy grinned and said, "Fine, fine. I can wait. But when the time comes, I'm ready for uncle duties."

Ron laughed and chimed in, "Yeah, me too. Just let me know when it's time to teach the kid Quidditch."

Oliver nodded, a warm smile spreading across his face. He looked at Hermione and said, "Whenever you're ready, Mia. No rush."

Mrs. Weasley smiled fondly at them and said, "Just enjoy being young and in love for now, okay? There's plenty of time for everything else."

The group shared a moment of laughter and warmth, enjoying the comfort of each other's company in the cozy atmosphere of the Leaky Cauldron.

As everyone shared in laughter, Hermione found herself lost in thoughts of marrying Oliver. Marriage had never been something she'd seriously considered, especially not at such a young age, but the idea now seemed warm and inviting.

She imagined a life with Oliver—days filled with laughter and love, sharing every joy and challenge together. In her thoughts, she saw Oliver putting aside his bow, choosing a life where they could be together always. Yet, she knew deep down that Oliver's commitment to protecting others ran deep. Giving up the bow wasn't something that would happen overnight, even for their love.

Hermione glanced at Oliver, who was engaged in the conversation with Ron and Tommy, his smile lighting up the room. She felt a flutter in her chest, realizing how much she cared for him and how deeply she wanted their future together, whatever it might hold.

Lost in her thoughts, Hermione leaned back in her chair, savoring the warmth of the Leaky Cauldron and the companionship of her friends. As she watched Oliver, her heart swelled with affection. He was the boy who had captured her attention with his bravery and kindness, the same qualities that now made her envision a future by his side.

The idea of marrying Oliver brought a mix of excitement and nervousness. They were still young, navigating a world full of uncertainties, yet she couldn't deny the allure of building a life together. She imagined their home filled with laughter and books, perhaps with a cozy corner where Oliver could retreat after a night of patrolling as the Arrow. The thought of waking up beside him every day, sharing their dreams and ambitions, filled her with a deep sense of contentment.

But alongside her dreams, Hermione understood the challenges. Oliver's dedication to his role as the Arrow was part of who he was, a commitment born from a desire to honor his father's memory and protect those who couldn't protect themselves. It was a noble calling, but one that came with risks and sacrifices. She knew she would support him, just as she always had, yet the thought of waiting anxiously for his return each night weighed on her heart.

Glancing at Mrs. Weasley, who had resumed her knitting with a content smile, Hermione knew she would find guidance and support in her. The older woman had a way of offering wisdom without intrusion, and Hermione valued her perspective on matters of the heart.

As Ron and Tommy continued their banter, Hermione's mind drifted back to Oliver. She wondered if he too had ever thought about their future together, beyond their adventures at Hogwarts and his vigilante duties. The idea of marrying Oliver felt both exhilarating and daunting, a leap into the unknown that she was willing to take for the sake of love.

Hermione gave Mrs. Weasley a meaningful look, prompting them to step aside from the lively chatter of their friends. The older woman's surprise was evident as she turned her attention fully to Hermione, waiting for her to continue.

"Mrs. Weasley," Hermione began, her voice steady yet tinged with a hint of uncertainty, "about what you said, marrying at 16..."

Mrs. Weasley's expression softened, understanding dawning in her eyes. She gently placed a hand on Hermione's shoulder, a silent gesture of support and encouragement.

"I didn't mean to startle you," Hermione continued, feeling a rush of nervousness but pressing on. "It's just... Oliver and I, we've talked about the future, and..."

Mrs. Weasley nodded, her gaze warm and understanding. "You're thinking about it seriously, aren't you?"

Hermione nodded in response, her thoughts racing as she tried to articulate her feelings. "Yes, but... it's a big decision, and I want to make sure we're both ready. Oliver has his responsibilities, and I want to support him, but..."

Mrs. Weasley squeezed her shoulder gently. "Marriage is a serious commitment, dear. It's natural to feel a mix of excitement and apprehension."

Hermione took a deep breath, grateful for Mrs. Weasley's calming presence. "I love him, Mrs. Weasley. I just... I want to be sure we're making the right choice."

The older woman smiled reassuringly. "You'll know when the time is right, Hermione. Trust your heart and trust Oliver. And remember, we're all here to support you."

Hermione nodded, feeling a weight lifted off her shoulders. "Thank you, Mrs. Weasley. Your advice means a lot to me."

Mrs. Weasley hugged her briefly before they rejoined the others, where Hermione found Oliver watching her with a soft, understanding smile. In that moment, she knew they would navigate their future together, one step at a time, with love and unwavering support from their friends and family.

Mrs. Weasley had tapped Oliver's shoulder and motioned him to come to the side and talk.

Oliver asked, "What's up?"

Mrs. Weasley looked at him kindly and said, "Oliver, Hermione just mentioned something to me. She seems to be thinking about marriage."

Oliver's eyes widened slightly in surprise. "Marriage?"

Mrs. Weasley nodded. "Yes, she was asking about the possibility of marrying at 16."

Oliver's mind raced. He had considered their future together often, but the idea of marriage at their age felt both thrilling and daunting. "I... I didn't know she was thinking about that," he admitted quietly.

Mrs. Weasley smiled knowingly. "It's a big decision, Oliver. Just remember to talk to Hermione about it. Make sure you both understand what you want and what it means."

Taking in her advice, Oliver nodded thoughtfully. "I will. Thank you, Mrs. Weasley."

She patted his arm reassuringly. "You're welcome, dear. Now, go talk to Hermione. I think she's waiting for you."

Oliver took a deep breath and turned to find Hermione, his heart racing with a mix of excitement and nervousness about the conversation ahead.

Oliver found Hermione not far away, chatting with Ron and Tommy, their conversation lively and filled with laughter. He approached them, trying to act casual despite the weight of the conversation he'd just had with Mrs. Weasley.

"Hermione," Oliver said softly, drawing her attention away from the group.

She turned to him, her eyes bright with curiosity. "Hey, what did Mrs. Weasley want?"

Oliver glanced around at Ron and Tommy, silently signaling that he wanted to talk to Hermione alone. Ron caught on quickly. "Hey, Tommy, let's go grab some more butterbeer," he said, nudging his friend, who nodded in agreement.

Once they were out of earshot, Oliver took Hermione's hand gently and led her to a quieter corner of the Leaky Cauldron. He took a deep breath, trying to find the right words.

"Hermione, about what Mrs. Weasley mentioned... about us getting married," Oliver began his voice earnest but tinged with uncertainty.

Hermione looked at him with a mixture of surprise and anticipation. "Oh," she said softly. "Did she tell you I mentioned that?"

Oliver nodded, his gaze steady on hers. "Yeah. She did."

There was a brief silence as they both processed the weight of the topic. Hermione spoke first, her voice hesitant yet hopeful. "I know we're young, Oliver. But... I love you. And I can't help but think about our future together."

Oliver squeezed her hand gently, a smile tugging at the corners of his lips. "I love you too, Hermione. More than anything."

She smiled back, her eyes shimmering with emotion. "I just... I don't want to rush into anything. But knowing that it's a possibility... it makes me happy."

Oliver nodded understandingly. "Me too. We have time to figure things out, Hermione. We don't have to decide everything right now."

Hermione leaned in closer, her forehead resting against his. "Thank you for understanding," she murmured.

Oliver wrapped his arms around her, holding her close. "Always," he whispered, pressing a gentle kiss to her forehead.

They stood there together, content in each other's embrace, knowing that whatever their future held, they would face it together.

Later

On the train

Hermione and Oliver found themselves nestled in their compartment on the Hogwarts Express, the rhythmic clatter of the train tracks providing a soothing backdrop to their quiet conversation.

Oliver gazed out the window, watching the scenery blur past. He couldn't shake the earlier conversation with Hermione and Mrs. Weasley from his mind. Despite the warmth of Hermione's presence beside him, a knot of uncertainty lingered in his chest.

"Hermione," Oliver began, turning to her with a slight furrow in his brow. "Are you sure about this? About us?"

Hermione looked at him, her expression soft and sincere. "Oliver, I've never been more certain about anything in my life. I know we're young, but I love you, and I can see a future with you. Maybe not right now, but someday."

He nodded slowly, his gaze searching hers for reassurance. "I want that too, Hermione. More than anything. But I don't want to rush into things. I want to be sure."

"I understand," Hermione replied, reaching out to take his hand in hers. "We have time, Oliver. Hogwarts is just the beginning for us."

Oliver smiled gratefully, squeezing her hand gently. "I'm glad you feel that way."

As the train continued its journey, Hermione leaned her head against Oliver's shoulder, finding comfort in his presence. They sat in comfortable silence for a while, the only sound being the distant hum of the train and occasional laughter from passing students in the corridor.

After a quiet moment, Hermione lifted her head and looked up at Oliver with a playful glint in her eye. "You know," she said with a teasing smile, "Ron thinks we're going to be the first ones in our year to get married."

Oliver chuckled softly, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear. "Is that so? I guess we'll have to prove him right then."

Hermione's smile widened, her eyes sparkling with affection. "I'd like that," she said softly.

They spent the rest of the journey to Hogwarts lost in their thoughts and dreams of the future, knowing that whatever challenges lay ahead, they would face them together, hand in hand.

Oliver remarked thoughtfully, "You know, if we decide to get married at 16, we'll need our parents' approval. They'll have to be on board with it."

Hermione smiled softly, her eyes gleaming with affection as she considered Oliver's words. "Yeah, you're right. I think they'd be happy for us, though. Especially after everything we've been through."

Oliver nodded, his gaze lingering on Hermione's face. "I hope so. It's a big step, but I know we can handle it together."

As the train rumbled on toward Hogwarts, Hermione leaned closer to Oliver, resting her head on his shoulder. They both felt a sense of peace and anticipation for the future, knowing that whatever challenges lay ahead, they would face them as a team.

A little later, Oliver had gotten up and used the bathroom on the train.

Hermione's heart skipped a beat as she found a box and lifted the lid of the small box Oliver had left behind. Inside, nestled against a velvet cushion, was a delicate ring. It gleamed softly in the compartment's dim light, catching the glint of passing scenery outside the train window.

She felt a mix of emotions surge through her—a flutter of excitement mingled with a touch of nervousness. Her mind raced, wondering if this was what she thought it was. She gently lifted the ring from its nest, marveling at its simplicity and beauty.

Just then, the compartment door creaked open, and Oliver stepped in, his expression momentarily surprised before softening into a smile as he saw Hermione holding the box.

"Hermione," he began, his voice soft but filled with anticipation.

Hermione looked up at him, her eyes wide with surprise and curiosity. She held the ring box delicately in her hands, unsure of what to say or how to react.

Oliver took a deep breath, his nerves evident despite his attempt to appear calm. "I... I wasn't planning to show you that just yet," he admitted, his cheeks tinted with a slight blush. He moved closer and sat down beside her, his gaze locked with hers.

"I've been thinking a lot," he continued, his voice steady but earnest. "About us, about our future. And I... I wanted to ask you something."

Hermione's heart raced as she listened, her fingers tracing the smooth surface of the ring box. She looked into Oliver's eyes, seeing a mixture of hope and uncertainty.

"I know we're young," Oliver said softly, reaching out to gently take her hand in his. "But... I love you, Hermione. And I can't imagine my future without you in it. Will you... will you marry me someday?"

Hermione felt her breath catch in her throat. She hadn't expected this, not now, not so suddenly. But looking into Oliver's eyes, seeing the sincerity and love there, she knew her answer.

But then again, they had been dating for over a year and six months, almost two years.

"Oh, Oliver," she whispered, her voice filled with emotion. She leaned in and kissed him softly on the lips before pulling back slightly to look at him. "Yes. Yes, I will marry you someday."

Relief flooded Oliver's face, and he let out a breath he hadn't realized he was holding. A wide smile broke across his features as he reached into the box, taking the ring and slipping it onto Hermione's finger. fit perfectly, as if it were meant to be there all along.

As they sat there, hand in hand, the train rattling gently along its tracks towards Hogwarts, Hermione felt a surge of happiness and excitement for their future together. They had so much ahead of them, but in that moment, all that mattered was the promise they had made to each other.

The compartment felt like a cocoon of warmth and joy as Hermione and Oliver sat together, her hand now adorned with the ring that symbolized their commitment to each other. Oliver couldn't stop smiling, his heart light yet brimming with a newfound sense of purpose.

"I can't believe you found the ring," Oliver said, his voice tinged with amazement. "I was planning to ask you properly, you know when the time was right."

Hermione chuckled softly, her eyes sparkling with happiness. "I couldn't resist," she admitted. "But I'm glad you asked, even if it was unexpected."

Oliver leaned in and kissed her forehead tenderly. "I love you, Hermione," he murmured, his voice filled with sincerity. "And I promise to make you happy, no matter what."

Hermione squeezed his hand affectionately, feeling a rush of gratitude and love for the boy who had captured her heart. "I love you too, Oliver," she replied softly. "And I believe in us. We'll figure everything out together."

As the train continued its journey towards Hogwarts, Hermione and Oliver sat together in comfortable silence, their hearts intertwined with hope and anticipation for the future. They knew challenges lay ahead, but they also knew that as long as they were together, they could face anything.

The train came to an unexpected halt, jolting Hermione and Oliver from their conversation.

"Why are we stopping? We can't be there yet," Hermione wondered aloud.

Oliver moved to open the door, but the train shook violently, throwing him back into his seat. "What's going on?" he exclaimed.

"Maybe we've broken down," Hermione suggested, trying to keep calm.

Then, the lights abruptly went out, plunging them into darkness. Hermione yelped as something brushed against her foot. "Ouch, Ollie, that was my foot."

Oliver, now peering out the window, whispered urgently, "Love, something's moving out there."

"What is it?" Hermione asked, her voice wavering.

"I can't see clearly, but it looks like something's boarding," Oliver replied, pulling Hermione closer protectively.

Their breaths turned visible as the compartment chilled rapidly. Oliver noticed frost forming on the window. Hermione shivered, her nerves on edge as the train lurched again. "Bloody hell! What's happening?!"

A piercing whistle echoed through the air, prompting Oliver's memory of Harry in a different compartment. "Harry," he muttered, suddenly alert.

Without hesitation, Oliver activated his bracelet, the nanobots swiftly forming his protective suit. "Stay here where it's safe, okay?" he instructed Hermione, his voice filled with concern.

Hermione nodded, her eyes filled with worry. "I love you," she whispered.

"I love you too," Oliver replied before bolting out of the compartment, sprinting towards Harry's location.

As Oliver approached Harry's compartment, he saw a strange figure hovering over Harry, distorting his form. "Hey! Get away from him!" Oliver shouted, drawing his wand and transforming it into his bow.

He aimed carefully, releasing an arrow that sailed through the figure harmlessly. "What?" Oliver muttered in disbelief.

Suddenly, the figure seized Oliver, draining his strength as Harry struggled nearby.

A man who had been sleeping in the compartment woke abruptly, pointing his wand at the figure. A brilliant white light burst forth, momentarily blinding Oliver and weakening the entity.

Through the haze, Oliver heard the man's voice urging him on, "You can do this, Ollie. You can survive this. Right, my wrongs. But first, you gotta make it through this."

The sound of the train whistle was fading away.

Later

A voice echoed in Oliver's head, distant and concerned. "Ollie? Ollie, you all right?"

Slowly regaining consciousness, Oliver found himself on the couch in the train compartment, the familiar crackling of wheels beneath them. He blinked and saw Hermione leaning over him, her expression etched with worry.

"How'd I get here?" Oliver asked, his voice groggy.

"Tommy, Ron, and Barry helped bring you in here," Hermione replied softly, her hand gently brushing his cheek.

Then, another voice chimed in, offering something to eat. Oliver looked up to see the man who had intervened against the dementor, holding out a piece of chocolate.

"It's all right. It's chocolate," the man reassured him.

Oliver took the chocolate and managed a weak nod of thanks before asking, "What... what was that thing... that came?"

The man's gaze turned serious. "It was a dementor, one of the guards of Azkaban. It was searching the train for Sirius Black. It's gone now. If you'll excuse me, I need to have a word with the driver."

With that, the man left the compartment, leaving Oliver and Hermione alone.

Oliver stared at the wall, processing what had just happened. Hermione reached for his hand, squeezing it gently. "Eat. You'll feel better," she said softly.

They sat in silence for a moment, the weight of the encounter sinking in. Oliver finally took a bite of the chocolate, the sweetness comforting against the lingering chill of the dementor's presence.

Oliver asked, "Who was that?"

Hermione replied, "He said his name is Remus Lupin. He's a new professor at Hogwarts, from what he told me. Are you okay?"

Oliver sighed, "I don't know."

As Hermione carefully checked him over, Oliver managed a small smile. "Look who's already acting like a wife."

Hermione rolled her eyes but couldn't help but smile back. "Someone has to keep an eye on you."

Oliver reached for the chocolate and took a bite, feeling the warmth and energy returning to his body. "I thought I was done for," he admitted quietly, his eyes meeting Hermione's.

Hermione squeezed his hand. "You were incredibly brave, Ollie. But you don't always have to face everything alone."

Oliver nodded, the seriousness of her words sinking in. "I know, love. I just... I feel this responsibility like it's all on me."

Hermione's eyes softened. "We'll get through this together. All of it. You're not alone."

Just then, the compartment door slid open, and Ron, Tommy, Barry, and Harry stepped inside.

"How's the hero doing?" Barry asked with a grin, though his eyes showed genuine concern.

"Better," Oliver said, managing a smile. "Thanks for helping me out."

Ron shrugged. "That's what friends are for. Besides, we couldn't let Hermione worry herself sick."

Tommy chimed in, "Yeah, mate. You're stuck with us whether you like it or not."

Oliver chuckled. "Wouldn't have it any other way."

Harry, still looking pale, said, "That was a close call for both of us. Thanks, Ollie."

Oliver nodded. "We look out for each other. Always."

The train's whistle sounded, and the Hogwarts Express began to move again. As they settled back into their seats, the atmosphere slowly relaxed.

Hermione leaned in close to Oliver. "We'll be at Hogwarts soon. Let's just focus on that for now."

Oliver nodded, grateful for the support of his friends and the girl he loved. "Yeah. Hogwarts."

The journey continued, and for a moment, the weight on Oliver's shoulders felt a little lighter. The companionship and camaraderie in the compartment reminded him that he wasn't in this fight alone.

Just then, Bella entered the compartment, her eyes scanning the group before settling on Oliver. "You look like you've been through a storm. Are you okay, Ollie?"

Oliver nodded, smiling at his twin sister. "I'll be fine, Bella. Just had a bit of a run-in with a dementor."

Bella's eyes widened in concern as she quickly moved to sit beside him, her hand resting on his arm. "A dementor? Merlin's beard, you really do get into the thick of it, don't you?"

Oliver chuckled softly. "Yeah, well, it seems to follow me around."

Hermione interjected, "We were just talking about how we all need to stick together and support each other. It's been a rough start to the year already."

Bella nodded, her expression softening. "Absolutely. We're stronger together, and we need to remember that."

Harry, still looking pale, but with a determined glint in his eye, added, "We'll face whatever comes our way, as long as we have each other's backs."

Ron grinned. "That's the spirit. And hey, we're almost at Hogwarts. Let's focus on the positive stuff for now."

Tommy chimed in with a smirk, "Yeah, like who's going to get the best grades this term? Spoiler: It's not me."

Barry laughed. "It's not you, Tommy."

As the train continued its journey, the group settled into a comfortable camaraderie, the earlier tension dissipating. Oliver glanced around at his friends and family, feeling a renewed sense of hope and determination. With Hermione by his side, Bella looking out for him, and his friends supporting him, he knew they could face whatever challenges lay ahead.

As they neared their destination, Oliver leaned back, feeling a warmth in his chest. He wasn't alone, and together, they would navigate the dangers and adventures that awaited them at Hogwarts.

As the train continued its journey, the atmosphere in the compartment grew lighter with conversation and laughter. The camaraderie among the group was palpable, easing the tension from the earlier encounter with the dementor.

Oliver noticed Hermione fiddling with something on her hand. His eyes widened when he saw the glint of a ring on her finger—the same ring he had given her.

"Hermione," Oliver began, his voice a mix of surprise and curiosity, "why are you wearing that now?"

Hermione blushed, looking down at the ring. "I just... wanted to wear it, Ollie."

The entire group fell silent, eyes darting between Oliver and Hermione. Bella raised an eyebrow, a smirk forming on her lips. "Wait, is that what I think it is?"

Harry's eyes widened. "Is that an engagement ring?"

Ron nearly choked on his drink. "You two are engaged?"

Barry looked equally shocked. "When did this happen?"

Oliver rubbed the back of his neck, feeling a mixture of embarrassment and affection. "I proposed a while ago. We just haven't told many people yet."

Tommy grinned, clapping Oliver on the back. "Well, congratulations! You finally did it."

Hermione looked into Oliver's eyes, her voice soft but steady. "I love you, Oliver."

"I love you too, Hermione," Oliver replied, squeezing her hand.

Ron, still processing the news, joked, "Well, now that the sappy stuff is out of the way, can we get back to talking about how Oliver almost got his soul sucked out by a dementor?"

Harry laughed, the color returning to his cheeks. "Yeah, Ollie. You really know how to make an impression."

Barry nodded. "Seriously, mate. You need to be more careful."

Tommy added, "And here I thought I was the reckless one."

Bella grinned, patting Oliver on the shoulder. "Just make sure you survive long enough to get married, okay?"

Oliver chuckled, feeling a surge of gratitude for his friends and family. "I will. I promise."

The train continued to roll towards Hogwarts, the sense of unity and support among the group growing stronger with every mile. As they neared their destination, Oliver felt a renewed determination to protect his loved ones and fulfill his promises, no matter what challenges lay ahead.