And Off We Go | Soupius & Hufno
Scorpius recognised Hugo, though they weren’t close. Being in different years, houses, and circles meant they hadn’t had much opportunity to talk. Still, Hugo was a Weasley, and all of them were good people in his eyes. “Good,” he replied, accepting the handshake. “Looking forward to getting back to Hogwarts.” Hogwarts meant no more having to rely on friends just for food and shelter. He always felt bad about having to ask for these things.
He had noticed the way Hugo stared, and assumed it was for his hair. “This,” he pointed, “was the Woods’ fault, before you ask.” He couldn’t change the colour at will like the metamorphamagi twins could, so he was sure to be caught out for it before bedtime. He had decided to keep it anyway. With luck, he would horrify a few snobby purebloods.
"How are you doing?" he asked in return. He had no idea whether Hugo was just talking to him out of convenience because they were seated together, or if he was actually trying to be friendly. Either way, Scorpius would manage.
Hugo couldn't really stop the giggle that slipped out. It was just- Scorpius had always seemed so serious to Hugo, in the brief interactions they'd had. "I like it," he told him, semi-consolingly. "They know better than most about what colors to choose for the best effect. And it looks like you had fun this summer. The Woods are always fun." Or at least Hugo always had fun with them.
With a shrug, Hugo settled more into his seat, although his hand kept tapping nervously on his knee. "I'm splendid." Hugo stopped and thought about it, looking up at the ceiling as if it had any answers for him. "Well, when I say splendid, I mean possibly nervous about O.W.L.S. and ready to get back to quidditch. I'm hoping we do well this year, even if winning isn't the goal for the majority of the team." Which was something he never could explain to his father, but mostly because he only slightly understood it himself.
