The Buddy System. *Updating In Process*

63. Exposed

"Yes, Minister?" I asked, my voice steadier than I felt.

Despite everything that had happened that night — the relief, the tears, the laughter, the sheer weight of hope finally settling into something real — my stomach still fluttered with nerves as Kingsley Shacklebolt turned his full attention back to me.

He rose from his chair slowly, deliberately, the movement drawing the room's focus without him needing to say a word. When he stood before me, hands clasped loosely behind his back, his expression was no longer purely official — there was something gentler there now. Purposeful. Kind.

"Miss Diggory," he began, his tone calm but resolute, "I would like to remove Miss Matthews from Azkaban as swiftly as possible."

My breath caught.

"As such," he continued, "I understand that you are due to leave Hogwarts on Monday for the Christmas holidays. Am I correct in assuming you intended to return home for the duration?"

"Yes, Minister," I replied, nodding quickly. "I was."

"Kingsley," he corrected with a small smile, waving a hand dismissively. "Please."

I smiled back, nerves easing just a fraction.

"Well then," he said, pacing once before stopping again in front of me, "I was wondering whether it might be agreeable — with the Headmistress's permission, of course — for us to depart this evening instead."

My heart skipped.

"I would escort you home personally," Kingsley went on. "That would allow the Aurors adequate time to establish the necessary protective enchantments on the property before Miss Matthews arrives. It also means she won't be walking into an unfamiliar house alone."

Before I could even process the idea properly, Professor McGonagall spoke.

"That would be perfectly acceptable," she said warmly, already nodding. "In fact, I think it's an excellent idea."

I blinked. Once. Twice.

"So... we're leaving now?" I asked, the words tumbling out before I could stop them. Excitement sparked through me like lightning.

"Yes," Kingsley confirmed, amusement dancing briefly in his eyes. "I think it would be wise. It will give Miss Matthews a chance to settle before others begin visiting."

He turned then, his gaze landing on Theo.

"Mr Nott," Kingsley said, already knowing the answer, "I presume you intend to visit during the holiday period?"

Theo looked like he might combust.

He had one hand gripping my sleeve, the other clutching Blaise's arm as though anchoring himself to the moment, his eyes glassy with emotion he'd clearly been holding back for hours.

"Bloody right I am!" Theo blurted out, voice cracking.

There was a soft ripple of laughter through the room, but it was affectionate — relieved.

Kingsley chuckled. "I thought as much."

He raised a placating hand as Theo opened his mouth again.

"I apologise that Raelyn will be seeing her first," Kingsley said gently, "but I would like to walk her through the security measures personally. Miss Matthews is expected to arrive tomorrow morning."

Theo nodded vigorously, tears now openly spilling.

"I will collect you myself tomorrow evening," Kingsley continued, "and escort you to her directly. No need for the train."