September 1, 1976

Dear Gray,

I don't think I have ever been as happy as I was today when I saw you for the first time since the summer holiday started. When I saw you, I didn't think. I was just so happy that I ran into your arms and threw my arms around your neck. You seemed shocked for a moment because, well, we have never really hugged like that before.

I was about to release you and apologize when you wrapped your arms tightly around my waist. I think that was the first time, in a very long time, that I ever felt as if I belonged somewhere. I felt as if I belonged next to you, by your side always.

As we talked and caught up, somehow, things felt different. I wonder if you felt it too. I found myself staring at your smile a little longer than I should have. When I shoved your shoulder and you jokingly shoved mine back much more gently than I had, I couldn't stop the butterflies in my chest. When you patted my knee and left your hand there, warmth spread all over my body and I couldn't focus on anything but your simple touch.

When our eyes connected several times from across the Great Hall and you beamed at me with your loving smile, I knew that things were different.

Love, Berry