"A New Companion"

Part 8

As Harry walked out of the menagerie, Snowy safely perched in her cage, he couldn't shake off the feeling that he had made a hasty decision. The excitement of buying a new owl had clouded his judgment, and now that he was outside, he felt a pang of doubt. He looked at Snowy, who was gazing at him with her piercing yellow eyes, and softly said, "Snowy doesn't suit your majesty, I believe Hedwig would much better." To his surprise, Snowy looked at him as if she understood, and then she began to softly hoot and flap her wings. Harry smiled and gently stroked her feathers, trying to calm her down. Just as he was about to put her back in the menagerie, he heard a soft rustling sound behind him. He turned to see Hedwig, who had somehow managed to escape from her cage in his dormitory, flying towards him. She landed on his shoulder, nuzzling his cheek and softly napping. Harry smiled, feeling a sense of joy and relief wash over him. As he looked at Snowy, he felt a pang of guilt. He couldn't leave her behind, but he couldn't deny the connection he felt with Hedwig. He turned to Mrs. Patel, who was watching the scene with a warm smile, and said, "I'm so sorry, but I think I'll have to return Snowy. I already have an owl, Hedwig." Mrs. Patel nodded understandingly. "Of course, Harry. It's clear that Hedwig is very special to you. I'll give you a full refund, and I'll even throw in some extra owl treats for Hedwig." Harry smiled, feeling grateful for the woman's kindness. He handed Snowy over to Mrs. Patel, who took her back into the menagerie. Harry watched as Snowy settled into her enclosure, feeling a sense of relief wash over him. As he walked away with Hedwig perched on his shoulder, Harry felt a sense of contentment. He knew that he had made the right decision, and that Hedwig was still his loyal companion. Hedwig, sensing his happiness, softly napped and nestled into the crook of his neck, and Harry knew that they were ready for whatever adventures lay ahead.