Chapter 1: The Unlikely Trio

As the Hogwarts Express chugged out of Platform 9 3/4, Liliana Stocks, a chubby mixed Filipino and Mexican girl from the United States, felt a mix of excitement and nervousness. She was about to start her first year at the prestigious Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry as a transfer student. Alongside her were her two closest friends, Elias and Seth, who had been inseparable since childhood. Elias, a mixed white and Mexican boy with a charming smile, had always harbored a secret crush on Liliana. He couldn't help but steal glances at her, his eyes lingering on her bright smile and sparkling eyes. He had confessed his feelings to her a few months ago, and although she valued his friendship, she hadn't reciprocated his romantic feelings. Undeterred, Elias continued to be her loyal companion, always ready to offer a helping hand or a listening ear. He had even kissed her once, under the stars, and touched her hand, but Liliana had gently let him down, hoping he would understand. Seth, on the other hand, had a more subtle approach to his affection for Liliana. He was always looking out for her, making sure she had enough to eat and drink. He would often sneak her snacks and sandwiches when he thought she was hungry. His quiet nature and genuine concern for her well-being had earned him a special place in Liliana's heart, but she hadn't quite caught on to his feelings yet. The trio had been an unlikely group since the start. Liliana, an astronomy enthusiast, had always been fascinated by the night sky and the secrets it held. She had also developed a passion for herbology, often spending hours in her makeshift greenhouse, tending to her plants and learning about their magical properties. Elias shared her love for swimming, and the three of them would often spend their free time exploring the nearby lakes and rivers. Seth, although not as skilled in the water, would cheer them on from the sidelines, happy to be part of their little group. As they made their way through the crowded train, Liliana's eyes widened with wonder. She had always dreamed of attending Hogwarts, and now that she was finally here, she couldn't wait to explore the castle and its secrets. Elias, sitting beside her, took her hand, and Liliana didn't pull away, though she felt a flutter in her chest. "Hey, Lil, I'm glad we're in this together," Elias said, his eyes shining with affection. Liliana smiled, feeling a pang of guilt for not being able to return his feelings. "Me too, Elias. We make a great team." Seth, sitting across from them, nodded in agreement. "Definitely. And who knows, maybe we'll even make some new friends here." As they chatted, the train whistle blew, signaling their arrival at Hogsmeade Station. The trio gathered their belongings and followed the crowd of students onto the platform. The imposing figure of Professor McGonagall, the Transfiguration professor, greeted them with a warm smile. "Welcome, first years, to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. I trust you had a pleasant journey? Now, let us proceed to the Great Hall for the sorting ceremony." As they made their way to the Great Hall, Liliana's eyes scanned the crowd, taking in the grandeur of the castle. She spotted a group of students gathered near the entrance, chatting and laughing. One of them caught her eye - a tall, blond boy with piercing blue eyes, who was smiling at her. "Who's that?" Liliana asked her friends, nodding towards the boy. Elias followed her gaze and frowned slightly. "I think that's Oliver Wood. I've heard he's a Quidditch player." Liliana's heart skipped a beat as Oliver Wood caught her eye and smiled. She felt a flutter in her chest, and for the first time, she wondered if she might have met someone special. As they entered the Great Hall, the sorting ceremony began, and Liliana's fate, along with her friends', was about to take a dramatic turn.