Invisible String - A Sebastian Sallow Story

Chapter XXII

"Hey watch those hands Lucan!" Sebastian taunted, watching the young boy's face go even more red as he attempted to aid his witch in standing. The group had enjoyed a tad too much, and were making their way back to the school grounds without him. He'd entrusted the two Gryffindors, deeming them more responsible than the very distracted Poppy and Imelda, and not wanting Ominis to be on edge leading her around without sight.

"Of course, sorry Sebastian!" The boy's voice squeaked out as he leaned down to hold her face in his palm.

"Don't take too long" she pouted and he chuckled, kissing her forehead. Taking the ends of his scarf that she'd worn, he wrapped it around her gently.

"I won't, but Sirona shouldn't have to clean up on her own. Wait up for me when you get back?" He asked, hinting at her to wait in the Room of Requirement instead of their common room. She nodded vigorously as the two Gryffindor students carefully escorted her down the path and out of his view.

Returning inside he saw Sirona had done almost all the labor to clean that normally took them hours. The chairs were resting on the tables and she had an enchanted mop scrubbing the floor. She sat at the bar, rifling through a box filled with parchment, looking up when he re entered.

"I want you to come look at something, it should only take a moment. You'll be back in time before curfew." She explained and he nodded taking a seat next to her.

"Ah, here it is. Sliding a worn envelop into his hands, he saw the words "Ryan" on the outside in familiar handwriting without a first name.

"To my Dearest house Companion,

I was so glad to see you again since you graduated. It has been entirely too long, and I apologize for the briefness of our last encounter at Hogsmeade. The twins are still quite young and require much attention as you can imagine.

I was writing to see if you were doing alright. I must be honest, upon seeing you at the three broomsticks, I have been worried for you. I hope you received Sampson and I's owl with some help to purchase the tavern, knowing it to be your dream now that it's available. We had looked forward to seeing you running the place.

You looked very worn my dear, and I worry that you are harboring much anxiety. I have never pressed the conversation you have shared in confidence with me, atop the Ravenclaw rooftop that night. I have guarded your secrets, knowing that only myself and your friend Maribel to be the only ones who know the "real" you.

I hope you find this letter as encouragement. I have known you since you were sorted into our house. I have watched you grow. I have always known you to be such a strong and kind hearted witch. I can assure you, that letting others see you as such may provide a freedom you had not considered. I only offer such advice as I wish to see you happy, however please do not feel pressured if you are unready to be open with others.

Sampson and I shall be returning to Hogwarts in the fall, both of us accepting positions as professors. I am excited to be able to visit you more, and ask if there any way possible you could watch the twins during the day. We shall provide you money in exchange. Sebastian is getting to that age he just wants to be involved in everything, so while he may be young, I imagine he may actually provide great help.

Either way, please always remember how deeply cared for you are. You are one of the kindest souls I know. I look forward to seeing you again soon.

All my love,

Alice Sallow

P.S. I recently stumbled upon a beautiful spring in my travels, and it made me think of you. I believe the goddess Sirona, to have sent me a feeling to write to you, so attached you shall find a vial of her earthly blessings...

Sebastian held the letter in shock, knowing that he didn't have memory of Sirona before she began watching them some days while their parents taught. The heavy bag of galleons in his pocket acting like an anchor.

"Your mother was one of the few people in this world who could actually see the real me for so long. She was a dear friend. I have always wondered how I may thank her for her kinship, and her encouragement for me to be myself... helping to look after you has been such a joy Sebastian. You are truly a man she would be proud of." Sirona spoke, holding out a photo of himself and Anne at the tavern while young in which Sirona was allowing them both to dangle off her strong arms the air as they cheerfully giggled.

"I don't know what to say Sirona, this is much too kind" he explained.

"Don't be. Your parents helped loan me the money to buy this place. You can consider it repayment if it eases your mind... however I want you to do what makes you happy." She explained, standing to escort him to the door.

He brought the old family friend into his arms as he hugged her close. "Thank you Sirona, for everything" he said reverently.

"Of course. Just know... I expect visits every now and again. I'd also like to see the ring, once you've asked." She said with a wink and he straighten, giving her a nod.

"Of course, this shall be the first place we stop to celebrate. I promise." He told her and she smiled.

"Go on Romeo... I recall you told her to wait up for you." She said and he couldn't stop his legs from bolting towards the flame back to hogwarts.