Future Decisions

The celebrations after Ravenclaw's Quidditch Cup win lasted long into the night. The common room was filled with cheers, music, and endless chatter about the match. Ezekiel found himself at the center of it all, his teammates and housemates toasting to his performance.

As the night progressed, Ezekiel finally slipped away from the chaos, heading towards a quiet corridor where he found Daphne waiting for him.

She smirked, arms crossed. "Enjoying your moment of glory, Quidditch star?"

He chuckled, leaning against the wall. "Not gonna lie, it feels pretty good."

Daphne stepped closer, placing a hand on his chest. "So, have you decided? About the offers?"

Ezekiel exhaled. "The Falcons' offer is tempting. Straight to the first team, no waiting. But it's a big decision."

Daphne nodded, tracing a small circle on his chest. "I'll support whatever you choose. Just don't forget, we have our own lives to build, too."

He wrapped an arm around her waist, pulling her flush against him. "I could never forget that."

She smirked, then leaned in for a deep, lingering kiss.

---

A few days later, Ezekiel sent letters to his family, explaining the offers. The response was swift—his mother, father, and even his grandfather wrote back, urging him to consider the long-term effects.

During a scheduled meeting with his mentor, Ezekiel sat across from the old wizard, who examined the contracts with a neutral expression.

"Quidditch is a fleeting career," the older man finally said. "You have the skill to excel, but do not let it distract you from your greater responsibilities as Lord Ravenclaw and heir to the Malverne family."

Ezekiel tapped his fingers on the table. "So, you're saying I should reject the offers?"

His mentor gave a rare chuckle. "No, I'm saying choose wisely. If you join the Falcons, ensure it does not interfere with your true path."

Ezekiel nodded. "I'll keep that in mind."

---

One evening, Ezekiel was called to a private meeting with the Falmouth Falcons' scout, the same man who had approached him after the Quidditch finals.

The scout leaned forward, eyes sharp. "You have the talent to make an immediate impact. We need a Chaser, and we need one fast. If you sign, you'll be playing in the professional league as soon as the next season starts."

Ezekiel folded his arms. "And my education?"

"You'd have to balance both, but we'll accommodate your schedule."

Ezekiel considered this. Balancing Quidditch, his studies, and his duties as a Lord was no easy task. But at the same time, the opportunity to jump straight into the professional scene was unprecedented.

"I'll give you my answer soon," he finally said.

The scout nodded, standing up. "Don't take too long. Opportunities like this don't wait forever."

---

That night, Ezekiel sat in the Ravenclaw common room, deep in thought. It wasn't long before Daphne and Alys found him.

Alys plopped down beside him, her usual smug grin in place. "So, when do I get to brag that my brother is a professional Quidditch player?"

Daphne sat more gracefully, giving him a knowing look. "You're seriously thinking about it, aren't you?"

Ezekiel nodded. "It's a big opportunity. But it also means more responsibilities, more commitments."

Daphne tilted her head. "You've always managed to juggle everything. Why should this be any different?"

Alys smirked. "And it's not like you don't love the spotlight. Imagine the crowds chanting your name."

Ezekiel chuckled. "You really think I'd let that get to my head?"

Alys scoffed. "Oh, please. You love it."

Daphne placed a hand on his. "If this is what you want, take it. We'll figure everything else out together."

Ezekiel looked between them, a small smile forming. He had a lot to think about, but one thing was clear—no matter what he chose, he wouldn't be making the journey alone.

---