With Lupin, Oliver, and Harry

Professor Lupin, Oliver, and Harry gathered in the dimly lit tower, the air thick with anticipation.

Professor Lupin looked at them with a mix of concern and encouragement. "Harry? Oliver? You made it. Now, are you both certain about this? The spell I'm going to teach you is quite advanced, far beyond the Ordinary Wizarding Level."

Harry nodded firmly. "We're sure."

"Alright," the Professor said, "everything's set. The spell we're working on is called the Patronus Charm. Have either of you heard of it before?"

Both Harry and Oliver shook their heads.

Professor Lupin continued, "No? Well, a Patronus is a powerful positive force. For a wizard who can conjure one, it acts like a shield against Dementors, drawing them away from you. To perform it, you need to focus on a memory—not just any memory, but a very happy and powerful one. Can you both manage that?"

Harry and Oliver nodded in unison.

"Excellent," the Professor said. "Close your eyes."

The two complied, their eyes shutting as Professor Lupin instructed, "Concentrate. Delve into your past. Find that memory and let it fill you. Immerse yourself in it. Then, recite the incantation: Expecto Patronum."

Together, they chanted, "Expecto Patronum."

"Good. Let's see how you do," Professor Lupin said, walking over to a box.

Oliver and Harry opened their eyes, focusing on the box as the Professor lifted the lid. A Dementor emerged slowly, its presence chilling the air.

Harry took a deep breath and shouted, "Expecto Patronum!"

The flames from the candles flickered and went out, casting the room into deeper shadows.

Harry faltered, "Expecto... Expecto... Expect..."

He collapsed, but Oliver quickly moved to catch him. "Harry!"

Oliver, determined, raised his wand and shouted, "Expecto Patronum!" With a swift, powerful motion, a bright light erupted from his wand, forcing the Dementor back with intense force.

Professor Lupin watched in astonishment, a smile spreading across his face. "Extraordinary," he remarked, clearly impressed by Oliver's quick grasp of the spell.

He carefully returned the Dementor to the box and turned to Oliver. "What happened?"

"Harry passed out," Oliver said, still holding Harry close. 

Professor Lupin replied. "He should be alright soon."

Professor Lupin asked, "What was the happiest memory you had?"

Oliver replied, "It wasn't a memory, but a dream. In it, all my family was there—my dad, mom, Thea, Uncle James, Aunt Lily... even Harry," he glanced at his unconscious cousin, "and Hermione. They were all telling me how proud they were."

Professor Lupin nodded approvingly. "That's a powerful dream. Your mind has accepted it as a memory, and it's clear that it's a strong one. Keep harnessing that, and you'll be a formidable force."

Oliver nodded, still cradling Harry. "Thank you, Professor."

Professor Lupin placed a reassuring hand on Oliver's shoulder. "Rest assured, you're on the right path. We'll get Harry back on his feet soon enough."

Later

Professor Lupin gently helped Oliver sit Harry up, encouraging him, "Here we go. Sit up slowly. Deep breaths. It's all right. I didn't expect you to get it right the first time. That would have been remarkable. Here, have some chocolate. It'll help."

Oliver looked at the chocolate and asked, "Why do you always carry chocolate, Professor?"

"Ah, just in case I get hungry," Lupin replied with a smile, handing a piece to Harry and then taking a bite himself.

Lupin offered a piece to Oliver, who gratefully accepted it, saying, "Thank you."

"See? Even you like it, Mr. Queen," Lupin said, nodding.

Harry commented, "That was one nasty Dementor."

"Oh, no, no, no," Lupin corrected, "That wasn't a Dementor. It was a Boggart. The real thing would be much worse. By the way, what were you thinking of? Oliver managed it on his first try."

Harry looked at Oliver in surprise. "Really?"

Oliver nodded, munching on his chocolate. "Yeah."

Turning back to Lupin, Harry said, "I used the memory of the first time I rode a broom."

Lupin's expression shifted to one of concern. "That's not quite strong enough. Not nearly enough."

Harry walked over to the candles, his expression thoughtful. "There's another memory. It's not exactly happy... but it's the happiest I've ever felt. It's complicated."

"Is it strong?" Lupin asked.

Harry turned to him and nodded.

Lupin nodded in return. "Then let's give it a try. Are you ready?"

Harry took a deep breath and said, "Just do it."

Oliver stepped back, and Lupin prepared to open the box once more.

As the locks clicked open, Professor Lupin lifted the lid of the box, and the Dementor shrieked as it emerged, flying into the air.

Harry shouted, "Expecto Patronum!"

With renewed determination, he cried out, "Expecto Patronum!" A brilliant light, as powerful as Oliver's, erupted from Harry's wand, forcing the Dementor back.

Lupin and Oliver exchanged relieved laughs, hugging each other as the Dementor retreated into the box.

Lupin closed the box and said with a grin, "Well done, Harry. Very well done!"

"I think I've had enough for today," Harry replied, clearly exhausted.

"Agreed," Lupin said, offering more chocolate. "Sit down and have some of this. It will help."

Oliver chuckled, "You and your chocolate. At this rate, you might turn into a chocolate bar yourself."

Lupin grinned and handed a piece to Oliver. "Then I'd be happy to be a chocolate bar, Oliver."

"Thanks," Oliver said, taking the chocolate.

Lupin laughed, "You're just like your father, Oliver—kind and considerate. You've inherited your mother's conviction, but your father's kindness shines through as well."

Oliver's face lit up at the praise. He had only heard kind things about his parents from Professor Snape, and it warmed his heart to hear it again.

Lupin turned to Harry and said, "And Harry, I believe you would have given your father a run for his money, just as Oliver would with his. That says a lot about both of you."

Harry said, "I was thinking of him... and Mum. Seeing their faces, hearing them talk to me—that's the memory I chose. I'm not even sure if it's real, but it's the best I have."

Lupin nodded approvingly. "It's a powerful memory, Harry. I think it worked perfectly. You both did a fantastic job. My best students."

In the courtyard

Team Potter Arrow was strolling around when Hermione remarked, "It's a beautiful day."

Oliver glanced at her and agreed, "Absolutely gorgeous."

Ron interjected, "Unless, of course, you've been ripped to pieces."

Bella looked puzzled. "Ripped to pieces?"

Harry asked, "What are you talking about?"

Hermione explained, "Ronald has misplaced his rat."

Ron defended himself, "I haven't lost anything. Your cat killed him."

Hermione countered, "That's rubbish."

Oliver chuckled, and Ron continued, "Harry, Oliver, you've seen that bloodthirsty beast of hers lurking around. Scabbers is definitely gone."

Hermione shot back, "Well, maybe you should learn to take better care of your pets!"

Ron retorted, "Your cat killed him!"

Hermione insisted, "Did not."

Cassie asked, "Are they always like this?"

Oliver said, "Not usually. They get along pretty well."

Tommy added, "Guys, let's not do this now. You're friends. I'm sure Scabbers is just wandering around the castle like he used to."

Oliver nodded in agreement, "Yeah, that's a good point."

Ron, frustrated, said, "Come on, the cat is clearly to blame."

Oliver disagreed, "No, the cat didn't do anything. There's no proof."

Hermione agreed, "Exactly."

Ron shot back, "Of course, Mr. Queen will side with his wife and ignore everyone else."

Oliver stopped him, "Hey, I'm trying to be fair. What do you want from me?"

Ron's frustration boiled over, "I want you to take my side for once. You always side with Hermione or Harry. I thought we were best friends."

Oliver responded, "We are, Ron."

Ron said, "Then why doesn't it feel like it?" and walked away from the group.

Oliver sighed, reflecting on whether he had indeed always sided with Hermione and Harry.

Hermione said softly, "Don't listen to him. I've seen you care for everyone, Ollie."

Oliver shook his head. "He's right. I do tend to side with you and Harry." He then hurried after Ron.

Hermione, taken aback, asked Harry, "Do you think he always chooses us over everyone else?"

Harry shrugged, "I don't know, Hermione. I've always seen him care for everyone."

The group quickly set off to catch up with Oliver.

As Hermione, Harry, and the rest of the group hurried after Oliver, they found him standing alone by the edge of the Forbidden Forest, his shoulders slumped. Ron was pacing nearby, clearly agitated.

Hermione approached first, her voice gentle, "Ron, please. We're all friends here. Let's talk this out."

Ron turned his expression a mix of frustration and hurt. "You know, it's not just about the rat. It feels like every time we have a problem, I'm the one who's left out."

Oliver stepped forward, trying to bridge the gap. "Ron, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to make you feel like that. It's just that sometimes things get heated, and I want to make sure everyone's heard."

Ron sighed, looking at the ground. "I just wish you'd stand up for me a bit more. I feel like I'm always the odd one out."

Harry joined in, placing a reassuring hand on Ron's shoulder. "We're all a team. We need to support each other, even when things get tough. Oliver's right; we all need to listen and understand each other."

Hermione nodded in agreement. "We're friends, and that means sticking together through thick and thin. Let's not let misunderstandings drive us apart."

Ron looked at each of them, the tension in his face beginning to ease. "Okay. I get it. I guess I just overreacted. But you've got to understand how it feels."

Oliver stepped closer, putting a hand on Ron's shoulder. "I do understand. I'm sorry if it seemed like I wasn't on your side. I value our friendship a lot. I'll do better."

Ron managed a small smile. "Thanks. I appreciate that."

Hermione offered a supportive smile as well. "And I'll try to keep my cat from causing any more trouble. Deal?"

Ron chuckled, nodding. "Deal."

As the group began to make their way back, the atmosphere lightened. Tommy clapped a hand on Oliver's back and said, "See? Nothing like a bit of fresh air to clear things up."

Cassie, who had been observing quietly, added, "It's good to see you all working things out."

With the tension dissipated, the friends walked back toward where Hagrid was, their bonds strengthened by the confrontation. They knew that, despite their differences and occasional misunderstandings, they were a team. And that was what mattered most.

At the lake

Hermione and the group approached Hagrid, concern etched on their faces. Hermione asked gently, "How did it go, Hagrid? The hearing?"

Hagrid sighed deeply before responding, "Well, it started with the committee members each giving their reasons for our presence there. Then I spoke up, talking about Buckbeak—how he's a good hippogriff, always keeping his feathers clean. But then Lucius Malfoy got up."

Bella's curiosity was piqued. "What did he say?"

Hagrid's face grew darker as he continued, "Malfoy painted Buckbeak as a deadly beast, claiming he'd attack without hesitation."

Cassie, trying to stay hopeful, asked, "So they're not going to sack you, right?"

Hagrid shook his head, his voice thick with emotion. "No, I'm not sacked, Cassie. But Buckbeak... he's been sentenced to death." His voice broke as he spoke, clearly struggling with the weight of the news.

In frustration, Hagrid picked up a rock and threw it into the water, sending ripples across the surface.

The group stood silently, their concern for Hagrid palpable. They exchanged glances, unsure of how to offer comfort or support.

Oliver declared, "I'm going to do what I should have done last year—put an arrow in Lucifer Malfoy." His tone was laced with sarcasm.

Hermione grabbed his arm, her expression firm. "No. You promised me you'd stay out of trouble. I can't have you getting arrested now."

Oliver protested, "But Mia, he—"

Hermione cut him off, her voice resolute. "No! N-O means no." She smacked his hand away.

Oliver huffed and kicked a rock into the water, sulking like a child.

Cassie turned to Tommy and Harry, asking, "Does she always say no to Oliver?"

Harry nodded, "Usually."

Ron added, "Yeah, Oliver often gets frustrated when Hermione won't let him do what he wants. But we're trying to help him be better than he used to be."

Tommy chimed in, "Exactly. So, sometimes we have to treat him like a child and say no to his impulsive ideas."

Cassie frowned. "Guys, that seems a bit harsh."

Harry shrugged. "It's not that we want to be mean. It's just that usually, Hermione is the one who handles it best."

Oliver continued to pout, his frustration evident. "You don't get it," he grumbled. "I just want to make things right. But every time I try, I'm told no."

Hermione sighed, her frustration mingling with concern. "Oliver, it's not that we don't understand. We just need to be smart about how we handle things. Acting out of anger won't solve anything."

Cassie approached him gently. "Look, we all want to make things right, but we have to do it in a way that doesn't put ourselves or others at risk."

Oliver's shoulders slumped. "I know you're all trying to help, but it feels like I'm being held back. Sometimes I just need to act before it's too late."

Tommy placed a hand on Oliver's shoulder. "We get that, man. But we also need to think about the consequences. If you go charging off after Malfoy, it might just make things worse."

Ron nodded in agreement. "We're all in this together. And sometimes, waiting and planning can be more effective than rushing in."

Oliver looked at his friends, their concern clear. He sighed heavily. "Alright, fine. I'll wait. But I'm not giving up on this. Not by a long shot."

Hermione smiled, relieved. "Good. And we'll help you figure out the best way to handle it."

Harry added, "We're all in this together. We'll find a way to make things right, but let's do it smartly."

Oliver finally managed a small smile. "Thanks, everyone. I just needed to vent. I'll work with you all on this."

Cassie gave him a reassuring pat. "That's the spirit. Now, let's focus on what we can do together."

The group gathered around, their camaraderie strengthened by the shared goal.

Later

On the bridge

As the group dispersed, Oliver and Hermione lingered on the bridge leading to Hogwarts. The setting sun casts a warm, golden glow over the castle, creating a serene backdrop.

Hermione leaned against the bridge's stone railing, her gaze distant but thoughtful. Oliver walked up beside her, his mood softening from the earlier frustration. He looked at her with a mix of gratitude and something deeper.

"Hey," Oliver said quietly, breaking the silence. "Thanks for keeping me grounded. I know I can be a bit... reckless sometimes."

Hermione smiled gently, her eyes meeting his. "It's not just about keeping you grounded, Oliver. It's about making sure you stay safe. I care about you, and I don't want to see you get hurt."

Oliver's heart warmed at her words. He took a step closer, his hand brushing against hers. "I know. And I appreciate it more than I can say."

Hermione turned slightly towards him, her face illuminated by the soft light. "Sometimes I worry about us... about how we handle things. But I believe in you, Oliver. And I believe in us."

Oliver looked into her eyes, feeling a rush of emotion. "You mean a lot to me, Hermione. I don't always show it, but I do."

Hermione's cheeks flushed slightly, and she moved a bit closer. "I know. And that means a lot to me too."

They stood in comfortable silence for a moment, the bridge's quietude echoing their shared feelings. Oliver reached out and gently took her hand, intertwining their fingers.

Hermione looked down at their joined hands, then back up at him. "Oliver..."

Before she could say more, Oliver leaned in, closing the distance between them. He gently pressed his lips to hers, a tender kiss that spoke volumes of their affection and understanding. Hermione responded, her free hand resting on his cheek.

When they finally pulled away, their faces were flushed but their expressions were soft and content. Oliver brushed a strand of hair from Hermione's face, his gaze tender.

"Thank you for being here," he said softly.

Hermione smiled, her eyes sparkling. "Always. And thank you for being honest with me."

They stood there for a few more moments, savoring the peaceful evening and the connection they shared. The worries of the day seemed to fade away as they simply enjoyed each other's presence, their hearts aligned in a quiet, profound way.

Oliver gazed at Hermione, his expression becoming serious as he held her hand. "You know, Hermione, I wish I could marry you right now," he said softly. "If I could, I'd do it in a heartbeat."

Hermione's eyes widened slightly, a mix of surprise and affection crossing her face. She gave a soft laugh, her cheeks flushing. "Oh, Oliver, that's sweet of you. But you know we'll have to wait until I'm sixteen. It's not just about what we want; there are rules and timing."

Oliver looked a bit wistful but nodded in understanding. "I know. It's just... I can't help but think about the future and how much I want to be with you."

Hermione squeezed his hand gently. "I want that too. But there's a lot of time ahead of us to build our future together. We just need to be patient."

Oliver sighed, but a smile tugged at his lips. "I suppose waiting will make it even more special when the time comes."

Hermione smiled warmly, leaning in slightly. "Exactly. And in the meantime, we have all these moments to cherish. We can focus on making the most of them."

Oliver nodded, looking into her eyes with a mixture of longing and affection. "You're right. I guess we'll just have to make every moment count until we can take that next step."

Hermione leaned in and kissed him softly again, her voice a gentle whisper. "Yes, and we'll make every moment together count, Oliver."

They stood there for a while longer, their hearts full of promise and love, the setting sun casting a warm glow over their intertwined hands. The future felt bright, even if it was still a bit distant.

Oliver picked up Hermione with a playful yelp of surprise escaping her lips, followed by a joyful giggle. He gently rested her against a piece of wood, his eyes locked onto hers with a deep sincerity. "There are so many things I want to say to you," he confessed.

Hermione's smile widened as she wrapped her arms around his neck, her gaze tender. "Say them. Tell me what you really want to."

Oliver's voice softened as he tucked a stray strand of hair behind her ear. "I want you to be mine."

Hermione's eyes sparkled as she responded, "I'll be yours if you'll be mine."

Oliver's smile grew, his heart full. "You had me from the first moment I met you, Mia. I love you."

Hermione's eyes misted with emotion as she whispered, "I love you too," before pulling him into a passionate kiss. She held him tightly, their embrace a promise of their shared future.

Oliver deepened the kiss, savoring the warmth and connection between them. As they finally pulled apart, he gazed into Hermione's eyes with unwavering commitment.

"I want to be with you," he said softly, his voice tinged with emotion, "until the day I die. No matter where life takes us, I want you by my side."

Hermione's eyes glistened with tears of joy as she cupped his face in her hands. "And I'll be with you, Oliver. Forever. We'll face everything together."

He smiled, his heart full of hope and promise. "Then it's a promise," he said, leaning in to kiss her again, their love a steadfast beacon guiding them through whatever lay ahead.

Between kisses, Hermione murmured with a playful smile, "I suppose I'm officially yours then."

They both laughed softly, the sound mingling with their kisses, as their passion deepened and the world around them seemed to fade away.

Oliver, his voice warm and teasing, whispered between kisses, "You're really teasing me now, you know."

Hermione grinned, her eyes sparkling as she pulled back slightly, "Maybe I am. But only because you make it so easy."

Oliver's smile widened as he drew her back into a tender embrace, their lips meeting once more in a kiss full of unspoken promises and shared dreams.

As they were lost in their kiss, a voice interrupted with a dry tone, "Mr. and Mrs. Queen."

Startled, Oliver and Hermione pulled apart, their eyes turning to the source of the interruption. They found Snape standing nearby, his expression inscrutable.

Oliver gently set Hermione back on her feet, his face flushing slightly as he cleared his throat awkwardly.

Hermione's cheeks were bright red, and she stared intently at the ground, unable to meet Snape's gaze.

Snape's gaze swept over them with a raised eyebrow. "What exactly are you two doing outside at this hour?"

Oliver quickly set Hermione down and cleared his throat, trying to regain his composure. "We were just... talking. It's a beautiful night."

Snape's expression hardened. "Indeed. But it is far too late for students to be loitering outside. Instead of merely warning you, I think a practical lesson is in order."

Hermione's eyes widened in surprise. "What do you mean, Professor?"

Snape's gaze was unyielding. "You will accompany me on my patrol of the castle. Perhaps the experience will serve as a reminder of the importance of adhering to the rules."

Oliver glanced at Hermione, who nodded in agreement. "Alright, Professor. We'll follow you."

As they trailed behind Snape, he led them through the dimly lit corridors of Hogwarts. The castle was eerily quiet, save for the soft echoes of their footsteps.

Snape glanced back at them occasionally, his expression unreadable. "You may find this experience enlightening. There are many areas of the castle where a student's presence would be... unwelcome."

Oliver whispered to Hermione, "This is certainly not how I expected our night to end."

Hermione squeezed his hand gently. "At least we're together. And maybe we'll learn something valuable."

Snape's voice cut through the silence. "Indeed. Perhaps you will also learn the value of discretion and the importance of adhering to school regulations."

As they continued their patrol, the castle's shadows seemed to deepen, but the presence of Snape's stern figure and the shared warmth between Oliver and Hermione kept them grounded, even as they faced the unexpected consequence of their late-night adventure.

As they walked through the quiet corridors, the cool, ancient stone walls seemed to whisper secrets of the past. 

Snape led the way with his usual brisk, measured pace, while Oliver and Hermione followed closely behind. The occasional flicker of torchlight cast long, dancing shadows that made the castle feel even more mysterious.

Snape turned a corner sharply and gestured for Oliver and Hermione to stop. "This is the West Wing," he said, his voice echoing slightly in the empty hall. "It's often less traveled by students. Not many know about the various hidden passages and secret rooms here."

Oliver glanced around, curiosity piqued. "Are there really secret passages here, Professor?"

Snape's lips curled into a faint, sardonic smile. "Indeed. Hogwarts is filled with such secrets. It is part of what makes it... unique. However, it is crucial to remember that some secrets are best left undiscovered."

Hermione, intrigued, asked, "How do you know about these passages, Professor?"

Snape's eyes narrowed slightly. "Experience and necessity. I've spent many years at Hogwarts, and I've learned to navigate its less visible aspects."

They continued down the hall, passing an ancient tapestry depicting the founding of Hogwarts. Snape stopped abruptly and pointed to a small, unremarkable door hidden behind the tapestry. "This door leads to a storage closet. It's an example of how easily one can overlook something that's right in front of them."

Hermione stepped closer to the door, inspecting it with a curious eye. "It looks so ordinary."

"Precisely," Snape said. "Sometimes, the most significant things are hidden in plain sight. The same applies to the rules and regulations of Hogwarts. They are there to ensure order and safety, even if they seem restrictive."

Oliver nodded thoughtfully. "I suppose there's a lot more to this place than meets the eye."

Snape continued, "Yes. And understanding the importance of following the rules is part of that. Sometimes, the consequences of ignoring them are far more severe than a simple patrol."

As they walked on, Hermione squeezed Oliver's hand, a silent gesture of support. The weight of their earlier actions seemed to lighten as they listened to Snape's reflections on the castle's hidden depths and the importance of respecting its traditions.

Snape noticed a flicker of light down the corridor, which quickly vanished. The trio moved towards the source of the light, and Snape illuminated his wand, aiming it at the figure ahead.

As the light revealed the figure, they saw it was Harry.

"Potter?" Snape's voice cut through the silence, sharp and disapproving. "What are you doing wandering the corridors at this hour?"

Harry, caught off guard, stammered, "I was—uh—sleepwalking."

Oliver could see right through Harry's lie from his stiff demeanor. He sighed, realizing that not only had they been caught, but now Harry, Hermione, and he were all in trouble for being out so late.

Snape's gaze hardened as he compared Harry to his father. "How extraordinary, Potter. Like your father, you seem to have inherited a certain arrogance. He, too, was known for his reckless behavior."

Harry shot back, "My dad didn't trust you. And neither do I."

"Harry, stop making this worse," Oliver interjected, trying to defuse the situation.

Harry finally noticed Oliver and Hermione and asked, "Cousin? What are you doing up at this hour?"

Hermione replied, "We could ask you the same thing."

Harry turned back to Snape. "If you don't mind, could you lower your wand?"

Snape's eyes narrowed as he said, "Turn out your pockets."

Harry hesitated, and Oliver recalled the map he had received from the twins. "How about I search him, Professor?"

Snape scrutinized Oliver for a moment before nodding. "Fine. Do it quickly."

As Oliver began to search for Harry, Hermione recognized that Oliver needed a distraction. She faked a sneeze, catching Snape's attention.

"You all right, Mrs. Queen?" Snape asked, looking at her with a touch of concern.

Hermione nodded. "Yes, sorry. I think there's dust in this room."

Oliver seized the opportunity. As Snape's attention was diverted, he quickly grabbed the map from Harry's pocket and discreetly hid it in his flannel before resuming his search.

Snape's gaze returned to the trio. "Anything?"

Oliver straightened up, shaking his head. "He's got nothing on him, Professor."

Just then, a new voice called out, "Professor?"

Snape turned to see Lupin approaching. "Ah, Lupin. Out for a moonlit stroll, are we?"

Lupin glanced at the trio and asked, "Harry, Oliver, Hermione—are you three all right?"

"For Harry, that remains to be seen," Snape replied curtly.

Lupin offered, "If you'd like, I can take over here so you can continue your patrol."

Snape nodded, clearly relieved. "Yes, that would be appreciated. Keep an eye on Potter. He has a knack for hiding things."

Lupin nodded, "Of course, Severus. Good night, Professor."

As Snape departed, the trio followed Lupin to his classroom, relieved but still on edge from the encounter.

In Lupin's Classroom

Lupin opened the door and gestured for the trio to enter. "Come in, you three. Now, I may not know all the details, Harry and Oliver, but it's clear to me that you're hiding something."

He turned his attention to them, his expression serious.

Hermione stepped forward, her voice steady. "Professor, we've been honest with you. What are you implying?"

Lupin's gaze sharpened. "Mrs. Queen, please don't insult my intelligence. It's unbecoming. Oliver, hand over what you took from Harry."

Oliver feigned innocence. "I don't know what you're talking about."

Lupin's patience wore thin. He drew his wand, pointing it directly at Oliver. "Hand... it... over. Now, Mr. Queen."

Oliver's defiance was unwavering. "I have no idea what you're talking about, Professor."

Lupin's face hardened. "Arresto Momentum." Instantly, Oliver froze in place.

Lupin reached into Oliver's flannel and extracted the map. He examined it with a frown.

Harry smacked his forehead in frustration, realizing the trouble Oliver was about to face.

Lupin lifted his wand, releasing Oliver from the spell's hold. "I don't know how this map ended up in your possession, but I am astounded that you didn't turn it in. Did it not occur to you that in the hands of someone like Sirius Black, this map could be a serious threat?" He pointed at Harry. "This map leads directly to you."

Oliver's face fell as he shook his head, clearly overwhelmed. "No, sir."

Lupin walked closer, his disappointment palpable. "Your father never strictly followed the rules, either, but he and your mother wanted better for you. I know he entrusted you with protecting Harry. Does this look like you're fulfilling that responsibility?"

Oliver, feeling crushed, could only respond with a defeated, "No, Professor."

Hermione stepped in front of Oliver, her voice firm. "Professor, leave him alone. He's trying his best."

Lupin's gaze shifted to Hermione, his tone dismissive. "I don't want to hear a word from you. You're just a distraction to Oliver, who is supposed to be protecting Harry. Instead, he's neglecting his duty because he's preoccupied with his future with you."

Harry, now defensive, intervened. "Hey! Leave them out of this."

Lupin turned his ire on Harry. "And you, Potter, are much like your father—ignoring the rules. But your parents sacrificed everything to save you. Wandering around the castle unprotected with a dangerous criminal on the loose? That's a poor way to honor their sacrifice!"

The group fell silent, their heads hung low as Lupin's words weighed heavily on them.

Lupin's words settled heavily over the trio, leaving them in a heavy silence. They stood with their heads bowed, feeling the sting of his reprimand.

Lupin's voice was unyielding. "Now, I will not cover for you three again, Harry. Do you understand me?"

The trio nodded solemnly. "Yes, sir."

Lupin continued, "I want you to return to your dormitory immediately. No detours. If you do, I will know."

As the group turned to leave, Oliver's shoulders sagged with the weight of his failure.

Harry hesitated and then spoke up. "Professor, just so you know, I don't think that map is always reliable. Earlier, it showed someone in the castle—someone I know to be dead."

The group stopped, their curiosity piqued. Lupin's expression shifted to one of concern. "Oh? And who might that be?"

Harry replied, "Peter Pettigrew."

Lupin's face grew pale. "That's not possible."

"It's what I saw," Harry insisted. "That's why I was out so late. I was searching for him. Good night, Professor."

With that, Harry turned and walked out. Lupin looked at Oliver with a stern gaze. "Oliver, from now on, I expect you to keep a close watch on Harry. Your concerns about the future with Mrs. Queen can wait. Do you understand?"

Oliver's eyes were brimming with tears as he responded, "Yes, Professor," before quickly following Harry out of the room.

Hermione, her frustration evident, spoke up sharply. "He's already feeling like he's failing. And you've only made it worse. Thanks for making him feel even more overwhelmed."

Without waiting for a response, Hermione hurried after Oliver and Harry.

Lupin watched them go, his expression conflicted. He glanced back at the map on his desk and sighed. "Sorry, Hermione. But Oliver needs to be vigilant. Even if it means pushing him harder than he wants." He turned and walked back to his office, the weight of his decisions weighing heavily on him.

With the trio

Harry, Oliver, and Hermione made their way down the dimly lit corridors of Hogwarts, their footsteps echoing softly. The tension was palpable, and Oliver's silence spoke volumes about his feelings of inadequacy.

Hermione walked close to Oliver, her hand gently brushing against his arm. She could see the anguish in his eyes and knew he needed support.

"Oliver," Hermione said softly, her voice filled with empathy, "I know you're upset, but it's not all your fault. We're all in this together."

Oliver's gaze remained fixed on the floor. "I just wanted to keep everyone safe," he muttered, his voice breaking slightly. "I thought I was doing the right thing."

Hermione reached out and placed a comforting hand on his shoulder. "You've been doing your best. That's all anyone can ask for. Snape and Lupin... they're just trying to protect us, even if their methods seem harsh."

Harry, walking slightly ahead, turned and joined the conversation. "Hermione's right. We all make mistakes, but we're in this together. And we have to stick together, especially with everything going on."

Oliver finally looked up, his eyes meeting Hermione's. "But I feel like I'm letting everyone down. Like I'm failing at everything."

Hermione squeezed his shoulder reassuringly. "You're not failing. You're just human. You're trying to balance so much right now, and it's hard. But we believe in you. I believe in you."

Harry nodded in agreement. "Yeah, Oliver. We all know how hard you're trying. We're all under a lot of pressure, but we'll get through it. You're not alone in this."

Oliver took a deep breath, trying to steady himself. "Thanks, both of you. I just... I don't want to mess things up anymore."

Hermione smiled gently and pulled Oliver into a hug. "You won't. We're here for you, and we'll get through this together."

Harry stepped closer and added, "And remember, we're all in this for the same reason—to keep each other safe. That's what matters most."

As they continued walking, the comforting words from his friends began to lift some of the heaviness from Oliver's heart. Though the challenges ahead were daunting, the support from Hermione and Harry gave him the strength to face them with renewed determination.

To be continued...