A Broken Inheritance

Chapter 13: The Restricted Section

She couldn't afford to falter. Not now. Not ever.

With a steadying breath, she forced herself to her feet, brushing the dirt from her robes. The lake shimmered behind her as she turned back toward the castle, its imposing silhouette framed by the fading light.

I'll find a way, she thought, her resolve hardening like steel. Whatever it takes, I'll find a way.

Many nights found her fruitlessly researching in the library, her eyes growing tired and her frustration mounting. Eventually, she realised the information she sought would only be found in the Restricted Section. One night, determined and desperate, she planned her excursion.

Little did she know, James had been observing her closely during these weeks, maintaining a safe distance since he knew she wanted nothing to do with him. As he perused the Marauder's Map one night, he saw her cursive name sneaking off to the library. The map, a testament to the ingenuity and mischief of the Marauders, revealed the comings and goings of everyone within the castle's walls. James had initially intended to use the map for its usual purposes—planning pranks, avoiding teachers, and generally ensuring the Marauders were always one step ahead. However, his resolve to focus solely on those objectives was quickly undermined by a growing concern that had taken root in his mind.

He tried, truly tried, not to seek out Anastasia's name among the winding corridors and moving dots on the parchment. Yet, despite his best efforts, curiosity—or perhaps something deeper—drew his gaze to her, tracking her movements with an intensity he hadn't anticipated.

After a moment of hesitation, he grabbed his invisibility cloak and followed her, curiosity getting the better of him.

He watched from the shadows as Anastasia expertly broke into the Restricted Section, her movements precise and confident. She browsed the shelves, carefully selecting books and making mental notes of the ones she chose. James couldn't help but be impressed by her skill and determination.

She moved with purpose, her steps quick but silent as she scanned the shelves, her eyes darting over the ancient tomes. James hung back, his curiosity mounting. What could she possibly be looking for in here?

The creak of a distant door sent a jolt of panic through him. The sound of approaching footsteps echoed through the library, heavy and deliberate. A professor, most likely. Or Filch.

James's heart leapt to his throat as he realised the footsteps were headed straight for the Restricted Section. He turned to Anastasia, who was too engrossed in her search to notice. Panic surged in his chest.

Before he could think better of it, James acted.

He darted forward, grabbing her arm and pulling her into a dark corner of the room. She let out a startled gasp, but he clapped a hand over her mouth, his other hand gripping her wrist as he pressed her back against the cool stone wall. The invisibility cloak draped over them both, shrouding them in shadow.

Her eyes were wide with shock, burning with indignation and the beginnings of panic. She struggled instinctively against his hold, her movements sharp and fierce.

Anastasia's eyes widened in shock, and she instinctively tried to break away. James leaned in close to her ear and whispered, "Someone's here."

The footsteps grew louder, the sound of keys jingling unmistakable now. James felt her breath hitch against his palm as she realised the gravity of the situation.

The approaching figure paused just outside the Restricted Section. James tightened his grip slightly, his body pressing closer to hers as he whispered again, so quietly it was barely audible, "Don't move."