Chapter Twenty-one
Sisters?
"Leaving Hogwarts! What do you mean?" Hermione cried.
"I'll explain. Just a minute, please," Jamie answered.
Jamie stretched her head to get the attention of her sister and school friends. "Please, don't leave. I want to talk to you all, but first I need a few minutes with Professor Potter and Professor Granger."
Jamie guided her two professors to a nearby bench and indicated that they all sit down. For a few moments they sat there quietly as Jamie seemed to be building the courage to speak. Hermione felt so bad for the young girl who had always seemed so self-assured, happy and full of life. She now seemed totally shattered.
Jamie took a deep breath and began. "If you remember, I told you both that my parents met in one of Voldemort's prison camps. What I didn't tell you was that while awaiting execution, they were forced to be human guinea pigs by Voldemort's depraved researchers. Those people were trying to find a way to destroy magical genes. My parents' genes weren't affected, but their magical abilities were damaged.
"They couldn't perform much more than simple first year spells. They found it difficult and embarrassing to function in the wizard world. That's why we live in a Muggle community. Unfortunately, their wizard training was little help when it came to procuring well-paying Muggle employment."
Harry could relate to the problems that Jamie's parents probably endured. He had found his own Hogwarts education little help in securing employment when he lived with Muggles.
"My parents both worked hard, but we never had a lot. Most of the money they earned went to keeping a roof over our heads and food on the table." Jamie had tears in her eyes as she thought of her now departed, beloved parents. "Emily and I never had a lot of fancy things, but we knew we were loved and that was all that mattered. My parents sacrificed a lot so that I would be able to attend Hogwarts. They knew the next two years were going to be extremely rough with both Emily and I attending. It was very important to them that we were given the opportunity to reach our full potential."
As Jamie spoke, Hermione couldn't help but think of Ron and how his parents had struggled to see all the children through school. Thinking of Molly and Arthur brought tears to her eyes and thoughts of her own parents. She would give anything to see them again.
Life, at times, seemed so cruel and heartless. Hermione had lost her parents when only seventeen. Now Jamie had lost hers when only just fifteen. She looked towards Harry who was listening to Jamie speak. His eyes were moist. Harry had lost his parents when just a baby. Poor Caitlin had not even once been held in her mother's arms.
Jamie voice began to break. "Now they're gone. We have no close relatives. What little savings they had will barely pay the funeral expenses. The house is rented. If we sell the furnishings, the money raised may pay the rent for a few months in a cheap apartment. But then what? I have no money to return to Hogwarts and even if I did; there is Emily to consider. No way can I stand by and see her shipped off to an orphanage. I have to take care of my sister; I love her."
Jamie looked at Hermione as the tears she had struggled to hold back streamed from her eyes. "Hermione, I'm scared. I have no idea what to do or where to turn. I'm only fifteen. Who's going to hire me? I keep telling Emily that everything will be okay; that I'll find a job and take care of her. But I know everything isn't fine. Everything is abysmal. My world is crumbling around me. I feel so helpless and alone"
Hermione drew the young girl close and held her tightly in her arms as she looked to Harry for guidance. Harry gave Hermione a reassuring nod. "Jamie," Hermione said tenderly. "You are not alone. Harry and I are here for you. We'll help you through this."
Harry put his arm around Jamie as Hermione continued to hold her. "Hermione and I have a school friend that now works in the Family Services Department at the ministry. I will contact him and see exactly where we stand and what can be done. I can promise you two things categorically. You are going back to Hogwarts and Emily will not end up in an orphanage."
"But how?" Jamie questioned.
Harry saw the look in Hermione eyes that indicated she agreed with him one hundred percent. "You let Hermione and I worry about the how." Harry turned his attention to Hermione. "Hermione, why don't you take Jamie and the others to lunch while I make a visit to the ministry?"
Hermione gave Jamie a kiss on the cheek. "We'll work things out. Why don't you get the others and decide where you want to go for lunch? I want to talk to Harry." Jamie returned Hermione's kiss and then gave Harry a quick kiss on the cheek as she ran to her sister and friends. Her cheeks still moist with tears.
As soon as Jamie left, Harry questioned Hermione. "Am I correct in assuming that we both are willing to do whatever is necessary to help these girls?"
"Yes, their parents' sacrifices can't be in vain. How long do you think it will take you?"
"We should be able to make the four o'clock train. Besides checking with Dean on the legal issues and getting his advice, I want to contact Severus and see what aid, if any, the school can give us."
"Harry, every day you do something that makes me love you even more." Hermione pulled Harry into a close embrace.
Harry gave Hermione a kiss as he prepared to Apparate. "Make sure Jamie and Emily are on that train. I'll make arrangements to have personal items shipped. If necessary, we can come back ourselves."
* * * * * *
It was ten to four as Harry paced the railroad platform. Caitlin, Alex, Amanda and Tony had already taken seats on the
train, which would leave in ten minutes. Harry kept looking at the station clock and watching for Hermione.
Finally, three minutes before the train was due to depart, just as Harry was about to get the others off the train, Jamie, Hermione and Emily came rushing through the wall that led to Platform Nine and Three-Quarters.
"You had me worried!" Harry exclaimed.
Hermione took a deep breath. "Tomorrow morning, I start running again. The last six weeks have made me weak. Girls, hurry in and grab a compartment."
As Jamie and Emily rushed toward the train with two suitcases and an animal carrier, Harry questioned Hermione. "Where were you guys?"
"We had to go back to the house. Alfred would have died. Emily also needed some clothing to tide her over."
"Who is Alfred?" Harry inquired.
"Alfred is Emily's pet Kneazle; he's a sweetheart. I just hope he and Crookshanks get along." Hermione quickly changed the subject. "I hope you have some good news because this afternoon did not go well at all."
"Let's get a compartment on the train and I'll discuss it with you first before we talk to the others. What caused your afternoon to go badly?" Harry asked with concern.
"Emily." Hermione answered with a tone of frustration. "The girl is too young to understand the complexities of life. She is angry that Jamie and her are not going to be living together as planned. Neither Jamie nor I could make her understand how unrealistic that would be."
The train whistle blew and Harry and Hermione rushed to board. The train was practically empty and they were able to get a compartment next to the young people.
As they took their seats, Hermione looked at Harry hopefully. "How did things go? Were you able to speak with Dean and Severus?"
"Yes. You and I have some large decisions to make and we only have the length of this train ride to make them." Harry had a grave expression on his face.
Hermione was concerned by the serious look on Harry's face. "What did they say?"
"Let me start with Jamie first. Her age puts her in a strange situation. Technically, in the wizarding world a person is still a minor and remains under the control of their parents until they reach the age of eighteen. However, once you reach fifteen you could legally file for emancipation and strike out on your own if you desired. Since Jamie's parents died after she was fifteen she is considered automatically liberated, her own person. She is past the age of being put in an orphanage and cannot be adopted. She is on her own."
Hermione listened in horror. "You mean to tell me that any child that is between fifteen and eighteen is literally thrown out on to the streets if their parents die? How can our world be so cruel?"
"It might seem cruel, but actually it's not. They have choices. Of course, they can try to get a job and make a life for themselves. Obviously, the younger and less educated you are the less this becomes an option. Another option is joining a group home. There, they receive shelter and food while they train in a craft. The third option is to live with a relative or close friend while you finish your education or learn a trade and then strike out on your own."
"Harry, what did Severus say? Is there any help the school could give?"
"The school has limited funds. No scholarships are offered for first to fifth year. There is a program available for sixth and seventh years, but you must be recommended by four of your professors and receive thirteen O.W.L.s to qualify."
"Thirteen? That's a lot, but I think Jamie could do it. The fact that she has mastered being an Animagus would easily qualify her for three in Transfiguration alone. Harry I don't have a lot of savings, but I'm sure I can manage to pay the balance of this year. She could stay with us during the summers." There was optimism in Hermione voice as she looked to Harry for confirmation.
"Jamie's parents just made the final payment for this year. If Jamie can achieve thirteen O.W.L.s, this seems to be the best option. I hope Jamie will see it that way, also."
"We have to convince her that it is for her own best interest. I'm sure her parents would want her to do whatever is necessary to finish school."
Hermione was relieved that there seemed to be a workable solution to Jamie's problem. Her smile of relief quickly faded as she thought of young Emily. "What about her sister?"
Harry frowned. "That unfortunately is a much more difficult situation then Jamie's, especially given that she doesn't seem to realize the severity of their situation. Again, there are options and they must be taken quickly. Technically, Emily should have entered an orphanage immediately following the funeral. Theoretically, we are breaking the law by having her with us now. "
Hermione gasped, thinking how horrible that would have been for the child. One minute seeing your parents laid to rest and the next being plucked away from everyone you knew.
"Option one is her going to an orphanage."
Hermione interrupted. "Harry, that is not even an option under consideration." Harry could sense that Hermione was upset that he would even mention such a possibility.
"I know 'Mione. She could also be adopted by a relative or a friend." Harry was hesitant to continue. "Dean highly recommends against us taking that option considering her age and the fact that her parents just died. If you recall, Caitlin had to consent to being adopted by you. After your afternoon, I would tend to agree with Dean that adoption, at least at this point in time would not work. Emily would feel as if she were being forced into a choice between us and an orphanage."
Hermione looked pointedly at Harry. "You and Dean better have a third option."
"Guardianship. That is the route Jamie wanted to take. The problem with Jamie being Emily's guardian is that she has to prove a source of sufficient income to maintain both herself and Emily. That would require her to leave school and get a job. Dean and I both feel that ultimately this would end in Jamie's life being ruined and Emily, in the end, still being committed to an orphanage. It would seem that the best option would be for us to take guardianship of Emily at least until Jamie has finished school. That gives everyone a chance to adjust. After two years, the guardianship could be transferred to Jamie, or depending on circumstances, remain with us. Adoption may even be an alternative then, but this option has given everyone two years to adjust."
Hermione looked shyly at Harry. "Are you okay with all this? We haven't even said ' I do" and you for all intents and purposes have three daughters and a cat."
Harry laughed, "Don't forget Alfred, my only male companion. I'm okay with it Herm. Admittedly, I'm nervous about the situation, especially Emily."
"I'm sure she'll adjust. Look how wonderfully you and I get along with Caitlin."
"That's entirely different. Caitlin was searching for parents to love and be loved by. Emily had parents that she loved and loved her. Now, she is being tossed into the hands of strangers. She may well resent us." Harry had a concerned expression on his face.
Hermione seemed much more optimistic. "I'm sure she will come around. It will be tight paying for her schooling next year."
"Perhaps we should remain single so that the school would pay for both girls." Harry kidded.
"What are you talking about, Harry Potter?"
Harry smirked. "I'm just kidding Herm. It just seems unfair that the school will pay for the education of only one child or dependent from a professor's family. If we stayed single, I could take guardianship of Emily and both she and Caitlin would be covered. Once we are married only one can be covered."
"Harry, all of Caitlin's seven years have been paid for already. The school received the money from her grandparent's estate. Our daughter will never have to work a single day of her life if she doesn't desire."
Harry looked at Hermione questioningly. He had no idea what she was talking about. "What are you going on about?"
"I'm sorry, I thought Caitlin told you." Hermione thought for a moment. "No, she wouldn't have. She doesn't like to talk about it. Prefers to keep it a secret. She is afraid people will treat her differently if they find out she is going to be wealthy when she turns fifteen."
"How wealthy?" Harry asked in complete surprise.
"That's difficult to say with investments fluctuating. She's currently worth about twenty million galleons."
Harry reeled at this revelation. "Well, shall we discuss our plans with the heiress before we talk to Jamie and Emily?"
"I'll get her," Hermione said as she rose from her seat. "I'm sure Caitlin will be happy with the arrangement. Emily is another story entirely."
When Hermione returned with Caitlin, the couple quickly reviewed their plans with her. As expected, Caitlin was eager to have Jamie and her sister join their growing family. "Where will we all sleep? She asked.
"That will take a little rearranging. The room where I currently keep my books was once a bedroom and will be again. Problem is that there are three girls and only two bedrooms. We have a number of choices, but they all involve two of you sharing a room. Since Jamie will only be with us in the summer, the best solution would probably be for her to share a room with you or Emily. That would give you and Emily each your own room most of the year."
Caitlin thought for a moment. "I'm not sure how Emily would feel about it, but I think it would be neat for us to share a room. We are only a year apart in age. Plus, that way, you could keep most of your books in the other room except when Jamie came in the summer."
"That would work out well," Hermione agreed. "Suppose we leave it up to Jamie and Emily since you seem flexible." Actually Hermione loved Caitlin's idea. Perhaps Emily and Caitlin sharing a room would increase their familiarity.
Caitlin smiled as she looked back and forth between Harry and Hermione. "Guess I won't be the only one naked anymore. Now the naturists will out number you three to two."
Harry had a look of dismay on his face as his eyes met Hermione's. He had completely forgotten about Jamie and Emily both being nudists. He didn't picture Emily as a problem. After all, he had gotten used to Caitlin being nude. It didn't even faze him any more. Actually, now it seemed odder to see her when she was dressed.
Emily was a year younger than Caitlin; there was no reason her nudity should bother him. Jamie, now that was another story. She was only fifteen, but she was no little girl. It wasn't that Harry didn't trust himself around her. Hermione was the only person he desired to be with, but Jamie did have a great body. What if he got aroused and Hermione took it the wrong way?
It seemed as if Hermione could read his mind as she answered Caitlin, "Yes, you will out number us. Those girls are going through enough turmoil in their lives. Naturism is important to them and we won't be a part of causing anymore changes." She winked at Harry. "I'll be there to help you out if any problems arise."
Caitlin had no idea what her mother was talking about, but assumed it was some secret code her mum and Harry had and that it was best she not question it.
Harry gave Hermione a wink back, realizing once more how lucky he was to have this understanding, intelligent and gorgeous witch as his future wife.
"Caitlin, would you join Amanda, Tony and Alex, and at the same time ask Jamie and Emily to join us?" Hermione asked. She smiled as the young girl left the compartment. It never ceased to amaze her how close the two of them had become in the last five months. Caitlin and Harry filled such a great part of her heart. Jamie also occupied a large area and now Emily was about to move in. That was no problem; Hermione's heart had plenty of space.
It was just a brief time before the door slid open and Emily and Jamie entered. The contrast in their expressions was startling to both Harry and Hermione. Jamie was pale and nervous, her face almost pleading to be helped out of this pit of despair that surrounded her.
Emily's face oozed hatred and anger. The phrase 'if looks could kill' aptly applied. Both girls had changed clothing after the funeral and now wore skirts and blouses. They had left their coats in the other compartment. Hermione was quite distressed when she observed the sheerness of Emily's shirt. Despite the fact that she was only ten and a year younger than Caitlin, Emily had already started to develop and the shirt she wore did nothing to hide this fact.
Hermione could only imagine what Alex and Tony had thought. She bit her lip, resisting the urge to tell the girl to get her coat and cover herself. There would be other more appropriate times to discuss Emily's clothing.
Jamie demurely took a seat next to the sliding door across from Hermione and Harry as Emily flopped herself next to the window and then turned, leaning her back against the window wall and lifting her feet to the seat. As she did so, she actually pulled her dress up so that her private area was not only exposed to Harry and Hermione, but to anyone that would walk by the compartment and look in the window.
Hermione was outraged at this behavior and started to get out of her seat, but Harry put his arm against her waist and stopped her. He gave her a look that seemed to indicate he wanted to handle this. Hermione tried to calm herself as she straightened her robes.
Harry calmly rose from his seat and went to the compartment door. He performed a locking charm on the door and then closed the curtains. "I knew you were a nudist, but I didn't realize you were an exhibitionist. I locked the door and covered the window. If you would feel more comfortable without your clothes, feel free to take them off, but either way you will sit like a young lady and not like a tramp. Understood?"
It was obvious that Emily was testing just how far she could push the situation as she got up and quickly stripped her clothes off. However, this time she sat down properly with her legs together.
Harry glanced at Jamie. "Would you like to remove your garments, also?"
Jamie shyly shook her head no as she glared at her sister. "I appreciate when someone is trying to help me out of a desperate situation. Unlike some people who seem to be doing everything they can to embarrass my friends and myself. I'm a nudist, not a little slag."
Emily just stared at Jamie, her face expressing a mixture of anger, embarrassment and hurt. She couldn't believe that her sister was calling her a slag.
"Now that everyone is settled and comfortable," Harry glared at Emily. " I'd like to explain what we propose to do. Jamie," Harry looked at the young girl with love and kindness, "you are emancipated which gives you every right to veto Hermione and my suggestions. I hope you won't because we both feel it is the best solution for the situation you and Emily are faced with."
Emily just stared at the ceiling refusing to make eye contact with either Harry or Hermione.
Hermione began. "Harry spent the afternoon talking to the Headmaster and to a friend we have at legal services in the Ministry. You are fifteen, Jamie, and if you wish you can leave Hogwarts and seek employment. Should you be able to obtain a position paying sufficiently, you could even have guardianship of your sister."
Emily looked at Jamie as if begging her to take that option.
Hermione continued. "However, Harry lived in the Muggle world for five years after completing Hogwarts and had an extremely hard time securing employment. I doubt you would do better."
Harry leaned over with his elbows on his knees and stared at Jamie sympathetically. "In order to obtain good employment in the Muggle world you must attend what they refer to as University. Without the proper education, you end up doing menial work that pays minimum wages. I barely survived from week to week. I wouldn't want to see you living in some of the places I had to or doing some of the cruddy jobs I had to take."
"Emily, Jamie, we aren't trying to hurt either of you," Hermione said. "We only want to help you. Jamie, your parents sacrificed many things so that you could attend Hogwarts. Emily, they were prepared to sacrifice even more so that you would have the same opportunity. Don't let their dreams for you die along with them. Keep their dream alive by letting us help you."
Emily responded angrily, "My name is Zacherley, not Granger or Potter. I don't want to be adopted and lose my name or have someone try to make me forget the parents that I love."
Harry stood up and walked to the window and then turned and looked directly at Emily. "We want to help you, but we have no intention of adopting you." Emily and Jamie both looked at Harry in a state of shock and surprise. "We realize you both just lost parents you loved very much. No one can take their place and neither Hermione nor I would try. Adoption has to be a two way street. All parties must want it for it to work. At this point in time, it is quite obvious you would never let it work."
Harry moved over to Jamie and put his hand on her shoulder. "Hermione and I both have great affection for you. We feel you can become a great witch. Please don't throw your opportunity to be successful away. We both love you and care about you." He turned to Emily, but as he went to touch her shoulder, she slid away. "We care about you too, Emily. We both want to love you, but can't if you won't allow us in your life."
Hermione got to her feet and put her arm around Harry. "This is what we propose to do. Jamie, you're parents have paid the balance of this years tuition. We want you to finish the year. There is a scholarship available for the next two years that we feel you stand a good chance of obtaining. You must achieve thirteen O.W.L.s to be eligible."
Jamie lips moved, but no words came out as she said thirteen. Her expression showed that she felt that was far from a certainty.
Hermione tried to reassure her. "I know you can do it. We have backup plans, but I 'm sure they won't be necessary."
Harry looked at Hermione skeptically as if to say 'What back up plans?'
"You will stay with us during vacation." Hermione continued. "Emily." The girl refused to look at Hermione. "We intend to ask the court to give us guardianship over you. You will live with us and attend school in Hogsmeade for the balance of this year. Next September you will attend Hogwarts. After Jamie finishes school, a decision will be made as to whether we remain your guardians or Jamie accepts that responsibility."
Harry and Hermione sat down and for a few moments the compartment remained silent as everyone contemplated their future. Finally, Harry spoke. "I know that right now it all sounds like a lot of legal gibberish, quite sterile and business like. Unfortunately, it must be under these circumstances, but I want you both to believe that Hermione and I are doing this because we care about what happens to you."
"Jamie, it's all up to you," Hermione said. "Do you trust Harry and I enough to believe that what we want to do is in the best interests of both you and your sister?"
Jamie just sat, her mind going in circles. She knew Emily would hate her, but what Harry and Hermione proposed seemed like the best course of action. Then she remembered her last conversation with her dad before returning to school.
"I've always recognized you and your sister were extraordinary, but I've always chalked some of that up to parental prejudice. For Professor Granger to take such individual interest in you, she must have seen it, too. Harry Potter and Hermione Granger are undoubtedly the greatest wizard and witch alive. Listen to what they say and trust them. They can be a strong positive influence on your life. You are extremely fortunate to not only have them as Professors, but also as friends."
Jamie looked lovingly at her sister, knowing that she would hate her for what she was about to say. "Professor Potter, Professor Granger, I had a conversation with my dad the day I returned to school. He told me that I was extremely fortunate to not only have you both as professors, but also as friends." Jamie's eyes filled with tears as she pictured her dad talking to her. "He told me that you both would be a strong positive influence on my life, but more importantly he told me to listen to what you said and trust you.
"Emily, you and I just can't make it on our own. We need help. I trust them and love them. Won't you please give them a chance?
Jamie went to comfort her sister, but Emily pushed her out-of-the-way. "I love my parents. I haven't forgotten them already like you have. You may regard these people as gods, but to me they're meddlesome strangers with whom I'm being forced to live."
Emily looked harshly in Harry's direction. "Will you please unlock this door so I can go to the other compartment?"
Harry rose from his seat and opened the curtains as he did an unlocking charm. As Emily reached for her shirt and skirt he said, "I thought you were a nudist."
Emily didn't quite know how to respond as she grabbed her clothes, but instead of dressing she simply opened the door and then slammed it on departing. In a few moments they heard another door slamming.
Hermione jaw dropped in bewilderment. "Harry, I can't believe she did that, but worse I can't believe you virtually encouraged her."
Harry seemed to ignore Hermione, and addressed Jamie. "Is she always like this?"
"No, I'm sorry. I don't know what's gotten into her." Jamie's face was red with embarrassment over the actions of her sister.
Hermione moved over to the other side of the compartment and put her arm around Jamie. "I'm sure she'll calm down and come to her senses. She is, after all, only ten. This must be dreadfully upsetting to her, as I'm sure it is to you. In your case at least you will be returning to a normal setting and be with friends. Emily is going to be attending a new school and living with Harry and I, complete strangers. I'll check with Severus to see if possibly you could sleep in our quarters for a week or two. It might help her to acclimatize to the situation."
A light tapping on the compartment door interrupted the conversation. Caitlin's quite nervous body stood on the other side. "Come on in honey," Hermione urged. "You're not interrupting anything."
Caitlin apprehensively entered the compartment. "What happened? Why is Emily naked? She won't talk to us. She just sits staring out the window."
Harry, with a concerned expression on his face, motioned for Caitlin to come and sit next to him. He put his arm around her and held her tightly. "Emily and Jamie are going through some very rough times. Jamie is a lot older and although she is hurting just as much as Emily, she understands the world better and that what we are trying to do is best for all concerned. Emily's world has been shredded to pieces. It's going to be hard for her to adjust. Remember how you and I felt when your Mum was whisked out of our life?"
Caitlin nodded her head as she looked toward her Mum with tears in her eyes.
"Emily feels the same way as we did, but worse. We had hopes that Hermione would come back to us. Emily doesn't have that hope. Her parents will never return. The life she had is gone forever. It's going to take a lot of time and love to rebuild her life. Can she count on your help?"
Caitlin nodded her head. "I'll try to make her feel loved." She looked toward Jamie. "Are you okay, Jamie?"
"No, but with the help of you and your parents I will be." Jamie gave Caitlin a little smile.
"There is another problem," Caitlin announced. "Someone is going to have to talk to Tony. He doesn't know any of us are nudists and I don't think he has ever seen a girl naked before. He's trying not to look, but not succeeding very well. Amanda and Alex just shrug their shoulders when he asks what is going on."
Suddenly Jamie had a look of horror in her eyes. "Tony is a Slytherin, what if he tells everyone we are nudists?"
Hermione stared at Jamie. "Since when are you ashamed of being a nudist?"
"I'm not ashamed. It's just that some people treat you so strange when they find out, like you are weird or have some sort of disease."
Hermione nodded her head in agreement. "You say Tony is nice and he doesn't seem to fit the normal Slytherin profile. Perhaps he wouldn't divulge your secret. But it's just a matter of time, however, before the entire school knows. The more people that know a secret, the sooner it will become common knowledge. Too many people know you girls are naturists for it to remain a secret much longer. I'm afraid you're going to have to trust him and hope for the best."
"Should I try to explain or would you rather?" Caitlin asked Jamie.
"I'll go with you and explain." Jamie replied as both girls got up from their seats. In turn, Jamie hugged Hermione and Harry. "Thank you for picking up the pieces of our lives."
They both gave each other a little nod as they gave Jamie a hug.
Jamie preceded Caitlin out of the compartment, but before leaving Caitlin stopped and questioned her mum. "Mum, Emily is only ten and she already is getting breasts. Is there something wrong with me?
Hermione hurried to the door and gave Caitlin a hug and then kissed her. "There is absolutely nothing wrong with you. You are perfect. Remember the mirror?"
"I remember, but that is only a possible future."
Hermione smiled, "I took out an insurance policy on that future."
Caitlin looked at her mum in surprise. "Do you mean that you…?"
"Yep! All gone."
Caitlin threw her arms around Hermione. "Mum, did I ever tell you how much I love you?"
"Every day, in many different ways."
As the door closed behind Caitlin, Hermione turned to Harry. "I know it's asking a lot, but do you think Jamie and Emily will ever feel about us the way Caitlin does?"
Harry stood and took Hermione in his arms. "Yes, I do. Jamie already thinks highly of you. Emily, I'm afraid, will take time. We have to win her love and trust. It won't be easy, but then nothing worth achieving is ever effortless."
* * * * * *
By the time they returned to Hogwarts the evening meal had already concluded, so Harry escorted everyone except
Hermione to the kitchen for a snack. Hermione had insisted she wasn't hungry and besides, wanted to update Severus
on everything that had transpired.
After eating, Amanda, Alex and Tony headed for their dorms while Emily, Jamie and Caitlin followed Harry up to the teachers quarters. Hermione had arrived just moments earlier and met them at the door.
"Harry, if you'll help me, we have to do a little remodeling and expanding before the girls can settle in for the night."
Caitlin looked excitedly at her mother. "Does that mean we're all sleeping here tonight?"
"Yes. The headmaster has agreed to bend the rules for the next week. Now, before we do anything we need to know which of you three get her own room and which two will share a room."
The girls briefly just looked at each other before, surprisingly, Emily was the first to speak. "I don't want to share a room with Jamie, she snores."
"Do you really?" Caitlin asked.
Jamie blushed, uncomfortable that this was being discussed in front of Hermione and Harry. "So everyone tells me. I'm sure it's not that bad."
"Hah!" Was all Emily said, using the same miserable tone of voice she had been using all day.
"Mum, it would make the most sense for Emily and me to share a room. We are close in age and since I'll be sleeping in the dorm most times until summer, it would be mainly her room. If Jamie takes what is your study, she would also mainly be using it only in the summer. You could enlarge it and still keep most of your books there."
"That sounds like a workable plan. What do you other girls think?" Hermione asked with a smile.
"That sounds fine," Jamie replied. "I imagine I'll only be here July and August."
"Severus might allow you to stay some weekends with your sister, also," Hermione responded. "How does that sound to you, Emily?"
Emily frowned. "I'd rather have my own room, but as long as Caitlin doesn't snore like a lion, I guess I can live with it."
Jamie made a threatening gesture as if she were about to hit her sister and for just the briefest of moments there was the slightest hint of a smile on Emily's face, but it quickly dissolved before anyone noticed it.
"Well then, shall we get started?" Hermione pulled out her wand and walked into what until now had been solely Caitlin's room. "Would you girls prefer single or bunk beds?" In unison they said single.
Hermione pointed her wand at Caitlin's bed as she did a duplication spell and suddenly there were two beds.
"Mum, isn't it going to be rather crowded in here?"
"You're right. It would make more sense to do the expansion spell before I create any more furniture." Hermione waved her wand and suddenly the room expanded to nearly twice its size.
Emily remained quiet, but it was evident from her appearance that she was as impressed with Hermione's magical abilities as were Jamie and Caitlin. Once Hermione had conjured enough furniture to satisfy the girls' needs, she called for Harry's assistance.
"Harry, while I do Jamie's room, will you arrange the furniture in here the way the girls desire?"
Harry made a complete sweep of the room with his wand and suddenly every piece of furniture was floating, including a carrying case holding a very shocked Kneazle. "Okay girls, tell me where you want everything placed." Caitlin and Emily both watched in astonishment as the furniture all circled the room until one by one Harry directed each piece to the location requested. In a matter of minutes, the room was arranged to the satisfaction of both girls and he left them to see if Hermione needed any assistance with Jamie's room.
"What say we get out of these miserable clothes?" Caitlin suggested to Emily.
Emily had a look of astonishment on her face. "Are we allowed? Do they actually allow you to be nude? Will it be okay with them if I am?"
"Emily, they are wonderful people. Why don't you make an effort to give them a chance?"
Emily didn't answer. She just frowned and started to remove her clothes. Once the two girls were bare, Caitlin asked if she could see Alfred.
"I'll let him out of his cage, but I doubt he'll let you near him. He's nervous from the trip."
Alfred was barely out of his cage when he jumped to the top of the tallest piece of furniture in the room. "I don't think he likes it here either," Emily said as Alfred peered over the edge of the chest at them.
"Give him time," Caitlin replied. "Once he calms down and gets to know us, I'm sure he'll settle in okay."
"Let's go look how they are progressing with Jamie's room," Caitlin suggested.
Emily didn't answer Caitlin, but rather just followed her from the room, after hurriedly checking the mirror to be sure that her scowl was properly in place.
Hermione smiled as the two girls entered Jamie's room. "I see that it didn't take you two long to get comfortable."
Neither girl answered; they were too in awe of Jamie's room.
"Wow! I can't believe what you did to this room," Caitlin said as she stared in wonder.
The room had been enlarged and a large bed was placed in the middle as a focal point. On one wall was a large closet, which faced a chest of drawers. Another wall hosted a mirrored dresser. Every other area of wall was covered with shelves bursting with books. A desk sat diagonally in one corner with a chair behind it.
Jamie smiled the first smile Caitlin had seen the entire day. "It did come out great, didn't it? I love it as a bedroom, but at the same time it's a functional office and library for Harry and Hermione."
Emily looked strangely at Jamie, "You just called the professors by their first names?"
"Yes, I have their permission."
Emily didn't respond, but simply continued to look around the room.
"Well, that finishes the rooms. I don't know about you girls, but I'm knackered." Hermione smiled as they all returned to the living area.
"Jamie, suppose you get ready for bed while Harry and I make some hot chocolate for all of us? Then we'll all be off to bed," Hermione said. "I intend to get back to my exercise program starting tomorrow."
Jamie looked first at Harry and then at Hermione. "But I sleep in the nude."
Harry looked tenderly at Jamie and smiled. "We know. Hermione and I discussed the naturism issue. We want you and Emily to be as comfortable as possible with us."
"Are you both sure? Even after everything that I did?"
"Jamie, we're both sure. We can never take your parents place. We would never even try, but we can make you both a part of our family if you'll let us."
Tears flooded Jamie's eyes. "I have no idea what Emily and I would have done without you. I love you both." In turn, Jamie gave Hermione and Harry a hug and then went to her room to undress. Emily had just stood and watched with a blank stare on her face. She quickly turned and followed Jamie so that no one saw the tears in her eyes. Caitlin followed closely behind.
As Harry headed for the kitchen, Hermione reached out and took his hand in hers. "Mr. Potter, when I first walked into that train compartment and into your life did you ever think that 12 years later you would be marrying me and have a ready made family of three girls?"
"No. My only regret is the five years wasted that I could have been with you."
"Perhaps it's all part of some grand plan. Maybe we were meant to be apart then so that we could be together now for these girls."
"I don't know 'Mione. I'm only sure of one thing."
"And what is that Mr. Potter?"
"That I love you more than life itself."
Harry took Hermione in his arms. Electricity snapped through the air as their lips met. He held her tightly as their kisses became longer and deeper and more ravenous.
Hermione pulled away. "Harry, the girls will be back soon. Will you be okay?"
"Do you mean after that kiss or because Jamie will be naked?"
"I was referring to Jamie, but now that you mention it, that kiss did leave me kind of weak."
"I'll be okay. I'll just keep reminding myself that she is only fifteen. It would be a lot easier if she were built like Caitlin."
"Harry!" Hermione responded in astonishment. "Don't you ever let Caitlin hear you say anything like that!"
As if on cue, the girls made their way to the kitchen.
There was little talking, as everyone had endured a tiring day.
After finishing their drinks, goodnights were said and everyone retired to their bedrooms.
Caitlin seemed to fall asleep as soon as her head touched the pillow.
* * * * * *
Caitlin was awakened by the sound of crying. She had no idea how long she had been asleep or how long Emily had been
crying.
"Emily, would you like me to get Mum or Jamie?" Caitlin asked with sensitivity.
"No! Just leave me alone," Emily cried sharply.
"I can't do that."
"Why not?"
"Because I care about you. It hurts me to see you hurting."
"Why do you care about me? I'm nothing to you."
"Maybe not yet," Caitlin replied softly. "But I'd like us to be friends. Emily, I'm sorry your parents were killed. It must be awful loving someone so much and then losing them, but you're not alone. Jamie loves you and Harry, Hermione and I will love you too, if you let us."
Caitlin got out of her bed and went over to Emily's. Before Emily realized what was happening, Caitlin crawled under the cover and into bed next to Emily. "What are you doing?" Emily questioned harshly.
"In the orphanage, when one of us was sad and crying, another girl would crawl in bed and hold her; pretend they were her mother. We knew they weren't, but it felt good to be held and know that someone cared about you."
"That sounds silly," Emily said sarcastically, but she didn't move as Caitlin nestled next to her and put her arm around her shoulder.
As Caitlin held her tightly, Emily asked, "Why do you want to be friends with me?"
"I don't want us just to be friends. I want us to be sisters."
End of Chapter 21
First, thank you to my wonderful betas: Atlantis and Amber. I'd be lost without them.
Second, as always, I would like to thank those of you who took the time to review. Those reviews make this all
worthwhile.
Chapter 24 will end the current school year. I'm not quite sure if we should call it Jamie's fifth year or Caitlin's first? The next few chapters will probably raise more questions then they answer as we set the stage for book two, Hogwarts Too Exposed - A Slytherin Among Us. If I'm able to continue the current pace, chapter 24 will be posted the end of this month. Starting a new fanfic in June with the Order of the Phoenix coming out would be to say the least ineffective. Therefore, I will take sometime off. Read Rowling's lastest epic and cry if she has killed off any of my characters. By mid to end July the dust should have settled enough that some of you might be ready to get back to our story. My target date for chapter one of book two is July twentieth.
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