Secrets of Sallow

Chapter 15 [Book 1]

I just stood there awkwardly as Ominis raised his voice even more, "you don't know when to stop, do you?"

Sebastian just let out a scoff and turned away from Ominis, "I know when not to stop. Leave this alone, Ominis."

"I'll be on my way", he spoke through gritted teeth as he walked away.

A loud crash caused me to jump out of my skin as I looked over to see Sebastian had kicked a barrel that was in his way out of frustration. 

I wanted more than to chase after him, knowing he was okay, but on the other hand, I was worried about Ominis considering his best friend wanted to keep things from him.

So, I decided to clear things up with Ominis, and then tend to Sebastian later.

"Ominis, Sebastian meant well - "

He snapped at me, "I know what I heard. I'm glad you wanted to tell me, but going after this relic is not a good idea. Sebastian doesn't even realise it, but he's as irresponsible and reckless now as his parent were years ago. It's why they died."

I was shocked, I didn't expect Ominis' outburst to lead to a somewhat reveal of Sebastian's parent's death and I couldn't help but push.

"How did they die?"

Ominis went on to explain how Sebastian's parents were both professors and unfortunately on what night, toxic, undetectable gas was released in their office where they were and when it was too late, the twins found them.

"That's why I can't understand Sebastian's recklessness. I've practically lost Anne", his voice turned solemn, "I can't lose Sebastian too."

He then practically begged me, "please. Avoid anything to do with that spellbook."

I felt for Ominis, but from what Sebastian had shown me, I couldn't help but feel a slither of hope for Anne, despite the concern I equally felt, "those references in the book seem promising."

Ominis just shook his head, "everything to do with Salazar Slytherin seems promising, until it's too late. I hope Sebastian pursues this no further. But, if you think he might, please, let me know."

I took this as a sign to leave, but not before Ominis said one more thing, "it would mean a lot."

All I could do was nod, I knew regardless of what happened, I will tell Ominis because no matter what, their friendship could withstand anything, no matter how many times they fought. At least, that's what I hope I knew, all I know is that I don't want to see Sebastian's desire jeopardise his friendship with Ominis.

I left the Undercroft and headed back to the Common Room to see Sebastian sitting by the window, flicking through the pages of the same spellbook I had found in the scriptorium.

Without uttering a word, I took a seat next to him and without looking up from the book, he already knew who was right by his side.

"I know he means well, but this could be my only shot to save Anne."

"I know", is all I could say.

He let out a sigh and put the book down, holding his head in his hands.

I took a hold of his hand to bring it down into his lap, using my other hand to brush his hair from his eyes. Shocked by my gesture, he stared at me wide-eyed.

"Please, whatever you are thinking with the relic, be careful. I know how much you want to cure Anne, but we still don't know what we're about to deal with. And - "

I paused, not wanting to reveal too much of what I felt for the Slytherin boy.

His grip on my hand tightened, "I'll be sure not to stray too far down, I'll be careful and I know I will be because I care about you", he hesitated to end the sentence, but thus, he did.

"I know you're the one who will continue to be by my side during this journey and so, regardless of what happens, I promise I will protect you."

We sat in silence, unaware that we were still holding each other's hands. I continued to sit in silence until I dosed off, leaning my head on Sebastian's shoulder who tensed at the sudden movement but soon relaxed.

The two of us slept by each other's side on the Common Room window seat, up until morning.

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Yay, more cuteness between you and Sebastian. But uh oh, trouble in paradise for the bromance, hopefully, they make up later.

(If you played the game entirely don't spoil🤫)

But yes, I'm hoping you guys enjoyed the little moment between them at the end and I'm hoping I can find moments where I can sneak little moments like this in the future.