Chapter 135: Loose Ends Tied [bonus]
The common room had filled up by the time Regulus appeared, and every pair of eyes swung toward him.
Several students from Sacred Twenty-Eight families approached on their own, shaking his hand.
"Well played last night," a seventh-year said. "About time someone reminded the Belmonts where they stand."
A sixth-year nodded. "Well done."
Regulus returned each handshake with practiced courtesy, his grip measured.
Alecto Carrow hovered at the edge of the crowd, eyes blazing, the tip of her tongue tracing her lower lip as though she wanted to devour him whole.
The mid and lower-years didn't dare approach directly, but the way they looked at him had shifted overnight.
Awe laced with adoration. Regulus fit the image of strength they carried in their heads.
He moved through the crowd toward the exit.