Ginny, Sirius, Fred, and George's arrival meant the time to gather was drawing near.
Just as Sirius asked everyone what they wanted to eat, saying it was his treat, Hannah and Neville walked over as well.
Neville was saying something to Hannah, the corners of his mouth unconsciously curling upward, his face wearing a shy smile.
Behind Neville and Hannah, Frank Longbottom and Alice Longbottom walked side by side, chatting and laughing just the same.
The Longbottoms' overall condition had changed completely. The emptiness in their eyes had long since vanished, replaced by a clear gaze that gave off an energetic, positive air.
Their cheekbones were no longer so prominent, their cheeks considerably fuller. The withered pallor of their skin had faded, replaced by a healthy flush.
Although their hair was still streaked with gray, both had had it properly styled again.
Frank Longbottom had cut his hair very short, making him look sharp and spirited;
Alice Longbottom had carefully smoothed her hair back and tied it into a bun, giving her a gentle air.
Sirius was still eating his sundae with a small spoon when he saw the four approaching and immediately widened his eyes.
"Frank? Alice?"
Frank Longbottom and Alice Longbottom froze as well, looking Sirius up and down. "Sirius!"
"Aren't you..." Frank Longbottom opened his mouth, but for a moment, he could not find the words.
He and Alice Longbottom had had far too much to discuss with Neville, and there were all sorts of trivial matters to handle after their recovery, so they had not yet talked about Sirius.
Affected by the Cruciatus Curse, Frank Longbottom's memories of the past had actually remained at the point when Bellatrix Lestrange and the other Death Eaters had tortured him.
He only remembered the report in the Daily Prophet