Second Chance at Fate

The scent of pancakes and the low murmur of voices greeted me as I descended the stairs. Sunlight streamed through the kitchen windows, casting a golden glow on the familiar yet utterly alien scene. At the table sat a man I vaguely recognized as 'Father' and a younger girl who was undoubtedly Lily.

My new 'mother,' Mrs. Evans, bustled around the kitchen, her movements efficient and kind. She placed a plate of pancakes before me, her smile gentle. "Good morning, Petunia! Sleep well?"

I managed a nod, my voice a faint whisper. "Yes, Mum."

Mr. Evans looked up, his eyes twinkling. "Did you have any dreams, Petunia? Anything interesting?"

My mind raced, grappling with the impossible truth. How could I tell them I wasn't their daughter, that I was an accountant from 2025, trapped in this child's body? "No, just... just the usual stuff," I lied, my voice strained. "I think I'm just tired."

Mrs. Evans patted my arm. "Well, don't worry. You're growing up so fast, darling. School will be good for you. You'll see."

Their words were meant to be comforting, yet they were laced with a heartbreaking irony. I knew too much. I knew their youngest would one day be swept into a world they couldn't comprehend, and that I, Petunia, was destined to become the bitter, hateful aunt of the Boy Who Lived. But I wouldn't. I couldn't.