Before the O.W.L.s Exams

With June's arrival, the weather around Hogwarts became unbearably hot, and the castle was even more stifling. Yet the students had no choice but to remain inside, forcing their brains to work hard as they prepared for the approaching final exams.

For fifth years, the only consolation was that the professors had stopped assigning homework. All remaining class time was devoted to reviewing what the teachers considered key exam material, so they could better face the coming O.W.L.s exams.

While everyone was working hard to prepare for their finals, however, a few discordant voices emerged.

For those who had prepared in advance, the O.W.L.s were nothing special. There was no need to cram at the last minute like the other students, making Albert stand out conspicuously among the busy crowd.

But geniuses were always somewhat different. Aside from envying him, or occasionally complaining and cursing him to fail his exams, no one had the spare time or energy to waste on him.

The sky was clear and cloudless, a perfect day for a walk outdoors. The summer breeze blew over the lake, sending ripples across its surface.

Looking out through the windows at the grounds beyond the castle, the students all wished they could lie beneath the shade of the trees and lazily while away the time. But the approaching exams kept them firmly confined within the castle.

Still, there were always exceptions.

Albert held Isabelle's hand as they strolled outside the castle, whispering quietly to each other and enjoying a world that belonged only to the two of them.

A breeze swept across the sparkling lake, making the green grass along the shore ripple like satin. Isabelle gently tucked back a lock of windblown hair, gazed at the undulating water, and gave Albert a tender smile.

"Here will do!"