Poppy was grateful June didn’t stop her with any questions or odd looks. They were both probably in their own worlds enough to be alright losing the other’s orbit, at least for a time. Poppy grinned at her best friend as June mentioned needing a chaperone for the apothecary; she knew better. She knew June would be the first to find a way to sneak off and buy something illicit, assuming the old crackpot owner didn’t spot her. Waving easily, Poppy watched as her friend waltzed off. Just as June meandered out of sight, Poppy let out a breath she hadn’t realized she’d been holding in. She then turned gratefully towards her cousin Atticus with a deflated, obviously less than alright look on her face. She latched onto the man’s sleeve with tiny, delicate hands and a grip that could rival steel. “Atticus,” she breathed. “I’m glad you made it. I…” Poppy hesitated and looked down towards her shoes. “I’m glad to see you.” The girl felt something inside of her pinch, knowing she had to eventually tell him what was on her mind. For now however, she could delay it. Slipping her arm into his, Poppy tugged Atticus towards the accompanying staff chaperone.
“Professor Foxwood,” she called, respectfully. She knew Basil hated being addressed by his given name under Hogwarts premises and today Poppy was not feeling up to testing his patience. She still owed him a lot, even after her profuse apology. The young Ravenclaw had spent a great deal of time the weekend after her incident debating what to possibly do to express her sincere apology to him. She’d decided that on this trip she’d find him a small gift, just something to express her remorse and hope Basil would forgive her. He’d already said as much, reassuring her, but Poppy wanted to go the extra mile. She needed to show Basil that despite their differences, she loved him just as much as she loved his brother, Atticus.
Heart swelling with a new wave of emotion, Poppy approached her cousin. She hoped he couldn't hear it in her voice. “I’m heading off with Atticus for the day. I won’t need a chaperone,” she said, patting the man’s arm. She didn’t make eye contact as she spoke, and her face was warm despite her best efforts. “I’ll check in with you before curfew.”
© Fox