Chapter 42: Warmth

Gathering her scattered thoughts, Orli tore open the last package. Inside was a red-and-yellow striped scarf, reminiscent of the school's standard scarves, but the thickly knit wool was far softer, adorned with raised little patterns that added a unique charm.

Of course, this couldn't possibly be a gift from Snape.

Orli let out a soft sigh, uncertain whether she felt relieved or just a little disappointed.

She unfolded the scarf and wrapped it around her neck. A wave of warmth immediately enveloped her, like a gentle hug.

At the bottom of the package, she found a box of homemade butter fudge and a thick letter tucked inside.

Who could have sent this? Wrapping herself snugly in the oversized scarf, Orli curiously tore open the envelope.

"Dear Orli, Merry Christmas!

Time flies so quickly. It feels like just yesterday that I saw you at the train station, and now it's already Christmas. I'm Percy, Fred, George, and Ron's mother. How are you settling in at Hogwarts?"

Orli thought of that kind and warm-hearted woman. Holding the letter in her hands, she returned to her bed, leaned against the headboard, and smiled as she continued to read. She hadn't expected Mrs. Weasley to send her a Christmas gift.

"I've heard about the flying lesson incident from Percy. Thank Merlin Fred and George's reckless behavior didn't get you hurt. You must have been so frightened! I can't even imagine how to comfort you. And Percy told me you even bought Fred a new broomstick!

I wrote to Fred and George, and they mentioned you inherited a potion shop abroad and even gave them part-time jobs to earn some money. You're such a thoughtful child, a sweet and kind soul, but you're still too young to fully understand the value of money. Please forgive an old aunt for nagging, but you really shouldn't be so generous. Budget wisely, my dear, and make sure you can live comfortably until you graduate.

Fred and George have reassured me repeatedly, but I still can't help worrying. Promise me, don't let the shop cause you any financial strain, and don't let it interfere with your studies. If they ever cause you any trouble, you must let me know.

Thinking of you and Harry breaks my heart. You're both such wonderful children, but… (this part of the letter was smudged, as though tears had fallen on it). If you'd like, you're always welcome to visit us during the summer holidays.

My dear child, may Merlin bless you."

Orli felt her eyes sting with emotion. She carefully smoothed the stack of letter papers, tucked them neatly back into the envelope, and placed it reverently in her drawer.

Mrs. Weasley was exactly the kind of warm, nurturing elder Orli had dreamed of having for the past eleven years. They could be a little nagging, a little strict, and overly enthusiastic. They might insist you eat more, constantly worry about you being taken advantage of, and fret over every little thing.

But they radiated an almost infinite warmth and abundant love. You could always feel comfort and care emanating from them.

Orli reached out and ran her fingers gently over the wide scarf. To her surprise, she noticed that one end of the scarf had her initial, "O," knitted in large, creamy white letters, with a tiny olive branch embroidered inside the letter.

Now she felt a pang of regret for her behavior at the train station before the school year began. Back then, she had been in such a hurry to slip away that she hadn't even said goodbye to Mrs. Weasley.

Orli sighed softly, pressing the stitched letter against her cheek. She realized this was the best gift she had received all year.