Setting the Scene: Back To Hogwarts

I approached the scarlet steam engine, my trolley trailing behind me. Dazed and overwhelmed at the sight of it. The last time I saw the Hogwarts Express was at the start of my 7th year many years ago.

© Bobbie Rebultan

The platform wasn't crowded yet; only the early and earnest few were around. My hands quivered, and a queasy feeling made its way from my stomach to my chest. I realized I was having a panic attack. Automatically, my senses keyed in to where my wand was tucked inside my coat pocket, ready whenever I need it. I took a deep breath and tried to slow my breathing. I took out my ticket, desperately clutching it with clammy hands, afraid I'd loose it along with the chance of a lifetime.

I walked past a few cars when a group drew my attention. Their familiar voices tearing my focus away from my speeding heartbeat. I felt my face stretching to a grin. It's been years since I last saw them. Ron Weasley was bent over checking his daughter's luggage, his red hair poking out from behind one trunk. Hermione Granger was fussing over Rose Weasley, while a sleepy-eyed Hugo Weasley looked on. And Harry Potter was talking intently to both James and Albus Potter, while they hungrily look at the piece of browning, blank parchment in their father's hand.

I approached them, and said a timid hello, immediately berating myself thinking I might be intruding on something. Thankfully, the group turned to me, and said back a cheerful hello.

"It's so nice to see you again! It's good you got here early. The cars will be full any minute now," Hermione said.

"Excited to be back at Hogwarts?" Harry asked with a smile.

"Immensely," I replied, my voice shaking.

"Spy on them for us, will you?" Ron asked. Rose rolled her eyes and the Potters laughed.

Hermione smiled at me warmly. "We're excited to finally have you at Hogwarts... Professor."

I smiled gratefully back at her, the bubble of tension in me deflating. "Yes, I'm coming home," I thought to myself.