chapter 1

It was a lively and bustling day on the streets of London—pleasant for those enjoying the crisp weather and chaotic for the commuters rushing through King's Cross Station. Usually, the station wasn't this crowded, but today was different. Regular travelers looked around with puzzled expressions, wondering what was causing the unusual rush. Families with children and large trunks hurried past them, their excitement evident.

What many didn't realize was that today was September 1st—a day of pride and joy for many parents. Wizarding parents, to be precise. They were here to drop off their children at Platform 9¾, where they would embark on their journey to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. For these families, the day held a special significance, marking the beginning of another magical year. The Muggles, however, remained blissfully unaware of the enchanted barrier between platforms 9 and 10, which served as the gateway to the hidden platform.

A short distance away from the bustling crowd, a girl stood alone, gripping her trunk and a letter in her hands. She watched, hesitating, as families effortlessly disappeared through the barrier. Should she go? Nervousness gnawed at her confidence.

Going to Hogwarts had always been her dream. She had spent years listening to her friends talk about the castle's grand halls, its rich history, the legendary Battle of Hogwarts, the Boy Who Lived, the Dark Lord, and the Golden Trio. And now, she was finally here. But something held her back.

"Need some help, miss?"

A masculine voice startled her, and she turned sharply to find a tall, lanky man with red hair, freckles, and a long nose standing before her. His hands were large, and his presence was warm, though unfamiliar.

"I—uh—what?" she stammered, instinctively taking two steps back.

The man immediately noticed her hesitation and offered a reassuring smile, stepping back himself to give her space.

"Hey, no need to be afraid," he said gently. "I won't harm you. I just noticed you standing here, watching everyone go through the barrier. Thought you might need some help."

His tone was kind, and his words were polite. He didn't seem bad at all, she thought.

"I was just..." she sighed. "I'm just nervous."

"First time at Hogwarts?" he asked. She nodded hesitantly. He tilted his head slightly, curiosity flickering in his blue eyes.

"Are you waiting for someone?" he asked. "Your parents, maybe?"

Her expression darkened. She lowered her gaze and softly said, "I don't have any parents."

The man's face fell. Realization dawned upon him—she was here alone. Perhaps that explained her apprehension. He took a cautious step forward and lowered himself slightly to meet her gaze.

"Then let me help," he offered warmly. "My wife and best friend are already waiting for me on the platform."

She studied his face carefully. His blue eyes held nothing but sincerity.

"Will you?" she asked, seeking confirmation.

"Of course," he said with a grin. "Now, let's go then, Miss—" He suddenly stopped, realizing something. "Blimey! I don't even know your name yet!" He chuckled at his own forgetfulness, making her smile for the first time that day.

"I'm Vanessa Valencia, sir," she introduced herself.

"Nice to meet you, Vanessa! I'm Ron Weasley."

Her eyes widened in shock. Ron Weasley?! The Ron Weasley? From the Golden Trio? The same Ron Weasley who fought in the Battle of Hogwarts, helped defeat the Dark Lord, and was the best friend of the Boy Who Lived?

Ron, noticing her expression, let out a small laugh. "I take it you've heard of me?"

"Y-yes! Of course! You're from the Golden Trio! I've read all about you in The Boy Who Lived! You're famous, of course!" she blurted out, her excitement slipping through.

"Yeah, yeah," Ron said, chuckling. "But we can talk about that later. First, let's get you through the barrier, shall we?"

Vanessa nodded quickly. The Hogwarts Express was waiting, after all.

"You know how to get through?" Ron asked.

"N-no, Mr. Weasley," Vanessa admitted awkwardly.

Ron smiled. "No worries! It's easy. See that wall between platforms 9 and 10?" He pointed, and Vanessa followed his gaze. "All we have to do is run straight at it."

She blinked at him, unsure if he was joking. "Run at the wall?"

"Yep! Trust me." He grabbed her trolley. "I'll go with you."

Vanessa hesitated but then nodded.

"Alright," Ron said, positioning himself. "On the count of three. One... two... three!"

Together, they sprinted towards the solid-looking brick wall.

The moment they passed through the barrier, Vanessa's breath caught in her throat. Before her stretched a bustling platform filled with witches, wizards, and excited young students. The towering Hogwarts Express, gleaming red and black, let out a loud whistle as steam billowed from its chimney.

Vanessa stared in awe.

"Impressive, huh?" Ron grinned.

"It's... amazing," she breathed.

"Well, my family's waiting further ahead," Ron said, beginning to walk. But before he got far, Vanessa stopped him.

"N-no, Mr. Weasley. You've already helped me so much—I can go by myself from here. You should be with your family."

Ron turned back to her and shook his head with a smile. "Hey, it's no trouble. Besides, my brother's daughter and Harry's godson are both starting at Hogwarts this year too. Maybe you guys can be friends?"

Vanessa hesitated, then nodded. "Okay, Mr.—I mean, Ron. Thank you so much."

"That's better!" Ron chuckled. "'Mr. Weasley' makes me feel old." He playfully pouted, making Vanessa laugh. "Now, come on. If we take too long, my wife will kill me."

With that, the two walked off toward where Ron's family and friends were waiting—toward the start of Vanessa Valencia's own Hogwarts adventure.