In the tranquil embrace of Hermione's backyard, the final week of their treasured summer together slowly dwindled, like grains of sand slipping through an hourglass. The warm evening breeze whispered through the trees, cradling them in a cocoon of comfort as they lay on a cozy blanket, their eyes locked on the celestial tapestry above.
Lucian couldn't help but let out a wistful sigh, his breath mingling with the crisp night air. The brilliant stars above seemed to shimmer knowingly, their silent witnesses to the bittersweet moment the two friends found themselves in.
Hermione, her gaze still fixed on the heavens, turned her head slightly toward Lucian. "Lucian, it's hard to believe we have just one more week together before we have to go back to school."
He shifted his attention from the stars to her, his heart heavy with the impending separation. "I know, Hermione. This summer has been incredible, and I don't want it to end."
Their fingers brushed lightly as they reached for each other, their hands finding solace in the connection they shared. Lucian couldn't help but smile as an idea formed in his mind, a way to bridge the distance that would soon separate them.
"You know," he began, his voice soft yet hopeful, "we don't have to lose touch completely. We could write letters to each other and send them through our parents. They could pass them on whenever we visit home."
Hermione's eyes lit up with the idea, her smile mirroring his. "That's a wonderful idea, Lucian. I'd love that. It would be like our own little secret."
Lucian nodded, his heart swelling with the thought of keeping their connection alive. "Exactly. Our secret way of staying close, no matter where we are."
As they continued to stargaze, Lucian's thoughts drifted to the upcoming TriWizard Tournament. He had been eagerly looking forward to the event, and his excitement bubbled just beneath the surface. However, he couldn't share this particular excitement with Hermione. The secrecy surrounding the magical world weighed on him, forcing him to keep this vital part of his life hidden.
As the night wore on, Lucian realized that there was something else he needed to share with Hermione. He took a deep breath and turned to her, his expression a mix of enthusiasm and apprehension.
"Hermione, there's something I need to tell you," he began, his voice steady. "My mother has plans for us during the Christmas holidays, and I won't be able to come to the UK."
Hermione's eyes widened in surprise. "Oh, I see. Well, family plans are important, Lucian."
He nodded, relieved that she accepted his explanation. "Yes, they are. I promise we'll make the most of the time we have left this summer."
Under the watchful gaze of the stars, Lucian and Hermione made a silent promise to cherish every remaining second of their unforgettable summer and to keep the flame of their friendship alive through letters sent across the divide of their worlds.