Harry Potter and the characters I used that are also present in the HP books aren't mine but the situations and plot plus some of my made up characters are definitely mine…Thanks for reading the first chap and this is the second installment so I hope you like it….
Chapter 2: Quidditch, Love and Revelations
RON
Dear Ron,
I'm sorry if I won't be able to go to the Burrow this summer. I sort of asked Hermione if I could stay at her house and her parents said yes so I can't back out from an invitation which I initiated and besides I've always spent summers at the Burrow and maybe this time I should pay Hermione a visit. All three of us will still shop for school supplies together just like old times. I thought maybe if I come and visit Hermione she wouldn't have to go to Bulgaria and visit Krum. Say hi to everyone for me.
Your best friend,
Harry
He's staying with Hermione and not with me. I can't believe what I was reading. I got Harry's reply this afternoon and I'm very disappointed. Is it because she kissed him that's why he wants to spend more time with her? He's just using Krum as an excuse. I can't believe I'm thinking of Harry and Hermione this way. It's not like they're dating or something. What if they end up dating?
"Who ends up dating, Ron?" Ginny startled me. I didn't know I was thinking out loud.
"Nothing Gin. I said I was thinking of when you would be dating. I mean you're all grown up and all," stupid git now you want your little sister to start dating, what's wrong with you! Ginny and I were the first two people to eat breakfast and now we're the only two people having our afternoon snack.
"If you need to talk, Ron you can always go to me," Ginny offered as she took a sandwich and stood up. "And did you know Lavender is just beyond that hill you play Quidditch in." She had to remind me of Lavender before she headed to the stairs to her room. Well, that's a good idea maybe I could practice a little Quidditch. And beside Lavender isn't that bad company.
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When I got to the hill the twins were already there, playing Quidditch or were they waiting for me? "Hey, what are you two doing out here?"
"We are here to ensure your place as Gryffindor's new keeper," Fred said. I couldn't believe my ears.
"Don't look so surprised little brother. With Oliver Wood gone Gryffindor needs someone to protect our goal post and you're the man for it," George exclaimed. Geez, my two mischievous pratty brothers are going to help me in the team.
"No kidding?" I said. I still couldn't believe what was happening.
"If we, were we should have pulled your undies over your head already," Fred joked and even I couldn't stop myself from laughing.
"Well, stop laughing and start defending that specially designed hoops over there," George pointed out the three rusty goal posts.
"Where did you get these?" I asked. "You didn't?"
The two of them were laughing at me. "We didn't steal it. We found it in the Quidditch stock area at the field and we asked Hagrid if they're still using it. And he said they're not using it anymore. He told us we could have it if we asked permission from Dumbledore and well, you know we're not scared of anything and he actually allowed as to have it," Fred explained.
"But how did you carry all three gigantic hoops here?" I asked and who wouldn't, those goal posts were humongous.
"Seriously Ron, aren't you paying attention to your potions master Snape? We used the Shrinking Potion of course, how do you expect us to bring these posts. It was kept in our pockets and as soon as everyone was asleep we went out and placed them here with a few drops of water to grow them back to their regular sizes of course," George said. I'm so amazed with the twins they could get away with just about anything.
"I have to say, Harry would be surprised when he comes here. You two will be playing Quidditch all day long," Fred exclaimed.
"I don't think so. He'll be staying at Hermione's this summer. I guess it's just going to be the three of us," I muttered. I could see that they were trying to sympathize with me but their mischievous side got the better of them.
"Hey Ron, don't worry. I think it would be better for Harry to have female company. I mean you guys will tire each other with your never ending Quidditch stories and maybe Harry needs some peace and quiet," George tried to say. Maybe George is right. Harry's been through a tough time with Cedric dying and all and Hermione never left his side the whole time when I was acting like such an idiot.
"Ron! Let's get started," Fred called and we started playing I guarded the goal posts while the two of them were trying to shoot some Quaffle in. The twins would make really good Chaser if they weren't Beaters. I was in the middle of defending the tallest hoop from the Quaffle, sent by Fred, when Ginny flew passed me and sent a Quaffle successfully to the hoop I was defending.
"How did you do that?" I didn't know Ginny could play like that.
"Simple, I took the opportunity when you were too busy blocking Fred's shot I took the other Quaffle from George and even he didn't see me take it from him," Ginny answered.
I could see in George's face that he didn't see Ginny coming and the whole thing took him by surprise.
"I think we have Angelina's replacement," Fred cooed.
"I believe, you're right Fred," George agreed. "What do you think, Ron?"
"I think she's bloody brilliant. I think Ginny has great potential," I agreed with the twins. Ginny was really good.
"I think we have two Weasleys to train," Fred exclaimed.
"Right you are Fred," George said. We continued playing Quidditch. Fred and George, against Ginny and me. The game was intense with Fred beating the crap out of me but I was till able to defend the goal with only a few goals by Freddy Johnson (as George likes to call him) and George after the well off snatch that Ginny made wanted to prove to the youngest Weasley that no body messes with George and gets away with it, but Ginny was too good a Chaser that we won the score 200 to 160. We didn't have a snitch or a seeker but it was race to 200 and we the young Weasley's won over the Twin towers.
It was fun and for a while I wasn't thinking about Harry or Hermione not that I wanted to forget about my two best friends but I felt happy just in the company of my brothers and sister. I realized that we were all growing up. It would be Fred and George's last year at Hogwarts and soon enough it would be my turn to live school. I couldn't believe that it had been four years since my first train ride to Hogwarts. There I met Harry then Hermione. I remember her reaction when I tried to turn Scabbers yellow. Ever since that day when she focused her attention to Harry and when she realized who he was she was ecstatic and if I hadn't introduced myself she wouldn't have cared. Harry was nice trying to make me feel better and all and Hermione was being bossy as usual but just the same they became my best friends. I think neither Harry nor I would have successfully passed all four years of school if we didn't have Hermione reminding us all the time to study.
"Hey, what are you doing up there?" It was Lavender. I must have been flying up there for half an hour and the twins or Ginny wasn't around.
"I was just thinking," was my quick reply. "Where did the twins and Ginny go?" I asked not that she'd know where they are.
"Your sister is returning my cousins broom and I think your brothers are back in your house," she replied. She was now in a yellow sundress with her dirty blonde hair just beyond her shoulder.
"Want to take a little walk?" she asked me.
"Sure," I answered and I got off the broom. We were walking together and we weren't talking until we were under the big oak tree.
"So Ron Weasley, how have you been?" she started. I really didn't know what to say to her. I couldn't tell her that I was upset because Harry was staying at Hermione's. Truth is I don't even know why I'm upset.
"I think something's bothering you," she said. Maybe she saw the look on my face. "You miss your friends don't you?"
"You could say that. But it had only been two days and we write owls so it isn't like we already lost touch," I reasoned. "Harry is going to stay at Hermione's next week. It's just that I was used to having Harry here at the burrow then Hermione would come and visit us here," I told her. I really wasn't sure why I was opening up to her like this.
"Did Hermione ever feel bad when Harry stayed with you and not with her?" Lavender asked me. I don't know where this was leading to but I think she's going to lecture me.
"Nope she never complained about it before," I told her. And it was the truth. Hermione didn't see anything wrong with Harry staying at the Burrow.
"So why do feel bad when she never felt that way. How many summers had Harry spent with you and your family," she asked.
"After first year until last summer before our fourth year," I replied.
"And it's the first time Harry's going to spend summer at Hermione's?" she asked and I nodded. "I don't think you should feel upset about that. Harry's been through a lot and sometimes hanging out with a girl can help him." What if I tell her that Hermione kissed Harry on the cheek and I think that's the reason why he wants to stay with her? But do I really truly believe that that's Harry's reason?
"Ron, do you like Hermione?" was the startling question.
"No!" was my firm answer.
"Then why are you acting like your jealous?" she asked me.
"I'm not. It's just that. Since this year it had been Harry and Hermione. I'd been out of the picture for quite sometimes and I was hoping that I could get back from all the stupid things I have done," I reasoned.
"I know you mean well Ron but I think you know that Harry and Hermione didn't mean to shut you out. You were the one who ignored Harry," Lavender reminded me and she was right. I was the stubborn one. I was upset the Goblet of fire chose Harry and I didn't believe him when he said he didn't put his name in there but Hermione stood by him and it took me a while to realize my mistake.
"Ron it's okay to be jealous of your friends sometimes. It happens. And I think Hermione feels jealous sometimes when you and Harry hang out a lot. What do you reckon she feels when you guys talk about Quidditch?" Lavender said. The way she said all those things didn't sound like scolding to me but it was just a simple reminder. It was comforting to be around her. It was a bit odd because I was used to seeing her gossiping with Parvati. I didn't know there was actually something different about her.
Before I walked her back to her cousin's house I picked out Lavender flowers that were growing by the hill and gave it to her.
"Thanks for the kind words," I told her.
"No problem," she said and she gave me a kiss on the cheeks again. I rode my broom back to the burrow.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
After dinner, which took place amidst conversations about Quidditch and the ministry I went up to write letters to Harry and Hermione.
Dear Harry,
It's okay that you can't come this summer. It's actually a good thing that you're spending it with Hermione because we have been spending too many summers together. I practiced Quidditch with Ginny and the twins. I think Gryffindor would have a new Keeper and a Chaser. But honestly maybe you guys can come and spend hang of the summer here at the Burrow. I'll ask Hermione if she'd want too. Mate, I know I haven't been the most supportive best friend and I'm an all out prat sometimes I hope you and Hermione would understand.
Your best friend,
Ron
After my letter for Harry I also wrote one for Hermione. I sent Pig to bring the letters. The next few days were okay. I had constant correspondences with my two best friends and Lavender always kept me company with our regular sunset walks. Good thing the Twins are either busy training Ginny and me for Quidditch or locking themselves up in their room formulating some new invention they don't bother teasing me when they see me with Lavender.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
HERMIONE
I got up early today. Larisse would be here any moment now. Mum and dad told me last night they would pick her up from the airport today. I went down to have some breakfast. I'm sure Harry is up at this time of day. Working, himself too hard. I miss him and Ron a lot. Ron would probably be enjoying himself at the Burrow.
I was engrossed in Reading my new book in Ancient Runes when mum and dad came in carrying some luggage. From behind them stood aunt Natalie and uncle Ted with Larisse.
"Larisse!" I greeted her and we were in a tight hug. I also gave my aunt and uncle a kiss on the cheek.
"I'm so glad to see you,"
I said excitedly.
"So am I," she replied. "Help me with my things and let's go upstairs," she said and I took her other bag and we dashed up the stairs dragging along her things. When we finally reached the room beside mine we got in and closed the door.
"So, what's been up with you me fave lil' cuzz?" she asked. I'm so fond of the way she talks to me, although some would think it's very inappropriate.
"Nothing much, has happened to me," I simply replied.
"My dear Hermione has grown a lot but you still kept this bushy hair of yours," she said as she twirled her fingers to my hair.
"I can't help it it's just like that," I said. "How long has it been since we last saw each other?" I asked her. It had been quit a long time. Larisse is already seventeen and is a very pretty young lady with her long auburn hair and brilliant brown eyes that almost resembled mine. She had a tanned complexion having been living in California near the Malibu beach all her life.
"The last time we were together was when we visited you a few summers ago," she said. "I hope you haven't forgotten your little promise to me."
Oh my goodness! I've completely forgotten what I told her back then. I promised to tell her all about me, my being a witch that is.
"Earth to Hermione," she muttered.
"I promised something to you didn't I?" I was blabbing. What will I tell her? My head was screaming tell her the truth.
"Come on Hermione I'd only be here for five days. I asked mum and dad to stop by here so we can talk and maybe I could fix your look," she said.
"What do you mean fix my look? Do I look that bad?" I asked. My cousin thinks I look stupid.
"I'm not saying you look bad. Hey, you don't look bad we almost look like each other remember?" she said. I remember the time mum compared our pictures together and said that we almost resembled each other specially our eyes. The only difference is her hair was straight and mine is bushy and a lot darker. "Hermione dear all you need is a make over. But you have to tell me your secret first."
So here goes nothing. "Remember the time I told you that I got admitted to Hogwarts and you said you never heard of my school before. It's because Hogwarts is a school for young witches and wizards. I'm a witch Larisse. So if you don't want to be around me anymore I understand," I said.
I couldn't believe the expression on Larisse' face. "Are you kidding? That's Awesome. A lot of girls in the States pretend to be witches and does all those silly voodoo stuffs and you my dear cousin, is a true and authentic one. Geez… I've always thought you're a whiz kid but I never thought you were a full blooded wizard," Larisse exclaimed.
"I'm a witch. Wizards are for male magical people," I corrected her.
"So are you saying you can do magic?" she asked me with enthusiasm on her face.
"Yes, but I can't show you any. Under-aged wizards and witches aren't allowed to do magic outside Hogwarts," I explained.
"Hmm… are you sure you aren't just pulling my leg or something?" she said. Well, I told her didn't I? I guess I can show her my moving pictures then maybe she would believe me.
"Okay. I will show you proof. Follow me to my room and brace yourself," I joked.
We went to my room and locked the door. I pulled out a shoebox from my school trunk. From the look on her face, I could see that the things she saw inside my trunk amazed her. There she saw my school robes neatly folded, my thick leather-covered books, my parchments and quills. "Here look at these photos," I showed her the pictures inside.
"My gosh, these pictures are moving! But how?" she asked with astonishment as she went from one picture to the other.
"They're bewitched. I asked Colin for these pictures before we left for Hogwarts," I told her. "You don't know him although he's muggle born like me. I'll tell you about the term muggle later."
"So who is this nice looking older guy," she said as she showed me a picture of Viktor and me at the Yule ball.
"That's Viktor he plays Professional Quidditch," I stopped realizing Larisse wouldn't know anything about the sport. "It's a wizard sport, I'll fill you in about it later."
"And who are these nice looking fellows with you?" she asked as she a picture of Ron, Harry and Me.
"Now those two are my best friends?" I told her and she raised an eyebrow. "What?" I asked.
"Well, among these two who is your boy friend?" she asked me.
"None!" I answered her and it was the honest truth.
"The guy with the red hair?" she asked.
"Ronald Weasley comes from a wizarding family, a very funny guy but a bit pratty," I said my best description of him.
"And this cute one with glasses?" she pointed at Harry. Yah he really is cute.
"He's Harry Potter. Raised by muggles, non-wizarding folks. A very courageous, loyal, nice and admirable young man," so much for my very good descriptions.
"You fancy him don't you?" Larisse started at me.
"Where did you get that silly idea?" I asked her.
"I don't know? From you I guess. Hermione you're too obvious," she told me. "You like this Harry Potter more than a best friend."
Larisse is one of the few people who knew me inside and out. The only thing I kept from her was my magical side and even now when I finally told her, she could still catch up with my dear hidden wizarding past.
"I know how you feel. It's hard to have feelings for a friend. The risk of losing the friendship is too hard," she told me. "Remember Dan the guy I told you about. We've been close friends since our middle school and well, I thought he likes me as much as I liked him and it didn't end up the way I wanted it to be."
"That's why you're going to Paris?" I said and she nodded.
"See Hermione I don't have any regrets though because I was able to tell him what I feel. It was better that way than keeping it to myself and not knowing what would happen next or what could have been. If you like him do tell but don't scare him off. The right time will come," Larisse said. I've always liked it when she gave advices to me. The rest of the after noon had passed with the two of us locked in my room looking at my Hogwarts' things and pictures. She always made me blush when she comments about Harry and I looking great together.
I told Larisse all about school and all out adventures including Harry's Triwizard participation. Larisse couldn't believe it. She said studying at Hogwarts must be like participating in an adventure movie. And I thought so myself. I told her the time when I was almost killed by a troll and Ron and Harry saved me. I also told her about the Basilisk and about me getting petrified even mum and dad doesn't know that. I told her about my adventure riding the Hippogriff with Harry, and she thought it was romantic and I told her that using a time turner and saving Sirius didn't sound so romantic to me. I told her about the three tasks that Harry had to go through and her favorite was the second task when Harry waited for the others to save us from drowning before actually surfacing first, when in fact he really was the first one to be there. I also told her about Viktor and the only thing she told me about him was that Harry was better looking. And I only giggled at her comment. I promised to bring her tomorrow to Diagon alley for her to have a better feel of the wizarding world and she promised to give me a make over just in time for Harry's long summer vacation at our house.
I would honestly think that Harry wouldn't mind me being just myself, but Larisse insisted that he has to notice me, and she maybe Muggle but she really has great persuasive powers that not even I, the brainy Hermione Granger could resist.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
"Mum, dad can Larisse and I go out today," I asked and knowing my mum and dad they would say yes.
"Just be careful you two," Mum said. "Have you told Ted and Nat about your trip?"
"Yes aunt Eve," Larisse replied and we made our way out carrying a backpack. "Hey, what's with the pack?" she asked me.
"Robes. If were going to Diagon alley you have to wear them so you'd fit in just fine," I assured her.
We took a bus and got to the Leaky Cauldron just in time.
"What is this place Hermione?" Larisse asked me. I could see that she was a bit irked out by the shabby looking bar.
"Ms. Granger nice to see you here. Aren't you early for school shopping?" Tom the Bar owner greeted us. "And who is your lovely friend?"
"Hi Tom! This is my cousin Larisse. We're just visiting Diagon alley," I answered and smiled at the nice old man.
"Well, get to the back door and enjoy your visit," Tom said.
"Okay, wear this," I handed to her a robe and I put on mine.
"Hermione I think this one is too short for me," Larisse said.
"I think I can work that one out," I got my wand out and said 'Elongatus' and the robe was long enough for her.
"Cool!" Larisse exclaimed. "So how do we get to this Diagon alley?"
I tapped the key bricks clockwise and there we saw Diagon alley but there weren't many people that day because school shopping isn't due next month. "Welcome to Diagon alley," I told her.
"This place is beautiful," she commented.
"Let's go window shopping?" I told her. I only have a few galleons and sickles, which I saved from my allowance.
"I brought some money so we can buy something?" Larisse said.
"Let's go to Gringotts, the wizard bank and get your money changed," I told her.
After going to Gringotts we went around and bought some things that I think would be a nice souvenir and isn't at all harmful. We were eating ice cream and were passing by Quality Quidditch supplies when I saw a familiar face and he was going towards our direction. "Hermione!" it was Oliver Wood, the old Gryffindor Keeper.
"Oliver, it's so nice to see you here," I greeted him with a handshake. I could feel Larisse nudging me with her shoulder. "By the way this is Larisse my cousin."
"Nice to meet you, dear fair maiden," Oliver took my cousin's hand and kissed it. My goodness since when did he became so chivalrous and poetic.
"Aren't you with Ron and Harry?" Oliver asked me. I thought he was going to stare at my cousin forever.
"Nope, It's just me and Larisse," I told him and I think I wouldn't be able to get rid of him just yet. "Larisse, I'm going to check out some books and I know that it would bore you to death so maybe you can walk around with Oliver here he'd give you a better tour of the place. Meet me up front at the bar." I think both of them were delighted of my little idea. So I went and left them both and headed to Flourish and Blotts to look for new reads. But I went to the Owl Post Office first and sent a note to Viktor about canceling my visit to Bulgaria.
When I was at the bookshop I was getting all those panic attacks. What if she gets in any trouble and I forgot to tell Oliver that she's muggle. But Oliver isn't a bad person and I from the looks on his face I think she fancies Larisse. And my cousin must have forgotten all about Dan.
I was looking at the new books and I just found a new Quidditch book, which reminded me of Harry. He'd love to have a copy of Quidditch, the history and the heroes. I can get a copy for Harry's birthday. Here we go again that's why Larisse thinks you like Harry it's because you think about him too much. I had to scold myself again.
I bought the book for Harry and none for myself. Lucky it didn't take me a while in waiting because as soon as I got in the Leaky Cauldron after a few minutes Oliver and Larisse got back in too. It was like they've been friends for a long time. We had a little chat before I saw the time in my watch and told my cousin we had to leave.
"So, I'll be seeing you in Paris next week," Oliver said. "Bye Hermione and do tell Harry that I think he has a big chance in becoming Quidditch Captain." We left the place and of course we took of our robes before leaving. We went to a muggle mall and she bought things that she says are beauty essentials. I have to take her word for it because she got Oliver Wood's full attention all to her and too think that guy is in every female Hogwarts student crush list in his time.
The next few days were spent either in her room or in my room. She told me about her plan of meeting Oliver at the Ritz their hotel in Paris. She told me that Oliver figured she was muggle because he knew that I was muggle born and that he didn't find anything wrong with it. I was so happy for her and I was kind of wishing that I had something like that going on in my life.
I received an owl from Ron carried by Pig no less.
Dear Hermione,
Harry told me that he's staying over at your house. I know that if Harry is getting in any trouble you're the one person he can rely on because I know I'm really pratty sometimes. Ginny, and the rest says hi. Lavender sends her love.
Love,
Ron
Lavender is at the Burrow. That's interesting. Actually I think that's nice. Ron needs a female figure that can control him because I certainly can't. Ron's right Harry does need my help and knowing him he would never ask because before he never had anyone to ask it from but I promise to be around when he needs me.
I also got a letter from Harry, and Larisse thought that Hedwig was such a beautiful Owl. We read the letter together.
Dear Hermione,
I already told Ron about my staying there. I just hope he didn't mind. (Like what does Harry mean by that? Ron didn't mind.) Anyway, I'm looking forward to seeing you soon. I haven't been having nightmare attacks so far because I haven't been sleeping a lot lately. I just couldn't help but think of what's going to happen next. I just hope I didn't worry you. I just wanted you to know how I'm doing. Can't wait to see you soon. Always be careful Hermione.
Love,
Harry
"He's such a darling," Larisse commented. And to think she just read his letter and there wasn't anything romantic about it.
"I think you're reading between the lines again," I reminded her.
"Dan doesn't even sound a bit like that. Now that letter was filled with concern," she reasoned.
"Well, we are friends. We're suppose to be concerned about each other," I countered.
"Too defensive my cousin. I know love is frightening sometimes. I too am new with this feeling. Butterflies in your stomach and all," she said. And I think she was talking about Oliver again.
I sent Harry my reply and told him that we'll pick him up on Monday just after we bring Larisse and her family to the airport.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
HARRY
I was in a really nice place, a garden I think with pink and purple flowers everywhere. There she was sitting in the middle of the field. She was so pretty in her nice white dress as fair as her complexion. Her brown her tied in a ponytail just like when she goes reading. Her brown eyes were staring at me, as if calling me to her. Then a dark cloud surrounded the field. She was still calling me. No she was crying for help. Voldemort! He's taking her. No!!!!! Hermione!!! Hermione!!!
I woke up all sweaty. It was just a dream I had to remind myself, but what an awful dream. Hermione, he can't take her. I won't let him, she's special, and she's my friend. I love her. The last thought hit me.
I suddenly had the urge to write to her. Tell her that I was doing fine. But the truth is I wanted to know if she's safe. This was weird. For the past four years I've always seen her as a friend, well just a friend and now one nightmare made me realize how important she was too me. She and Ron are the best things that ever happened to me. She was the best thing that ever happened to me and I was too thick to acknowledge it. I couldn't go back to sleep. How can I when the possibility of seeing Voldemort taking away Hermione plagues me.
I wrote her a letter as I thought I should and I'd have to send Hedwig tomorrow. I haven't told the Dursleys of my plans of staying with Hermione but I really don't think they would mind. They would probably want to get rid of me as soon as they could.
I wonder what Ron thinks about my letter to him? I hope he wasn't upset about me staying at Hermione's. I know he likes her and he's way of showing it was by bickering and arguing with her a lot but I can see through that. Is what I'm feeling at this very moment, right? I can't like Hermione as something more than a friend because she'd simply not return the same affection. She might even stay away from me if she found out. Why can't I just have a crush on Cho like a few months? Nope, I can't, not when she reminds you too much of Cedric.
The sun was almost up. I had to prepare breakfast for the Dursleys and probably tell them that I'll be living for Hermione's on Monday.
I cooked bacon and eggs and I already made coffee. Aunt Petunia was the first one to come down. She was quiet, which was so weird because she likes talking and gossiping a lot.
"Aunt Petunia?" I started and she just looked at me with her regular unemotional stare.
"I'm going to spend the rest of the summer at my best friends house," I continued not as if I was asking permission because I wasn't. I was just informing them about my plan.
"Have you told your uncle Vernon?" she asked.
"I will this morning," I replied.
"When will you be leaving?" she asked me with that non-affectionate tone. And just as I thought the fact that I'm leaving just gave her a better mood.
"On Monday. Hermione and her parent's are picking me up?" I said and I could see a sudden change in her face.
"A girl? You're staying at a girl's house?" she asked me.
"She's my best friend and her parents said yes," I replied.
"Her parents allowed her to invite a boy into their home," Aunt Petunia said with what I consider a tone of disgust.
"Like I said she's my best friend and besides I'm sure you want to get rid of me as soon as possible so why do you even care if I'm staying at a girls house," I said. I totally think she was a bit out of line when she questioned my staying at Hermione's.
Dudley and uncle Vernon came down and was starting on their breakfast when aunt Petunia told them about my stay at a girl friend's house. I think uncle Vernon didn't have any problems with it and Dudley was giving me those annoying glances and started teasing me about having a bushy-haired girl friend.
"Vernon, if we had a daughter I would definitely not let her invite a boy in our home and in such a young age," Aunt Petunia commented.
"Hermione is a very intelligent girl. She's a head of our class and their isn't anything malicious about my staying in her house. And even if you don't agree with my decision you can't stop me. I already owled Sirius about my trip and he would definitely be upset if I don't go through as I planned," I lied and I have to say it was more like I was yelling at them.
"Very well, Petunia just let him be. But do remember this I don't want you returning home bringing that girlfriend of yours because you got her pregnant," Uncle Vernon said.
That surely got me upset and for a moment the stove was ablaze and the Dursleys were huddled together in a corner. I took the extinguisher and put out the fire then I went out to the lawn and laid down there to cool down.
I so wanted the days to pass quickly. I wish I asked Ron if I could stay at the burrow for a few days, at least let a week pass and then I could be at Hermione's. I knew that I might get in trouble because of the fire I caused in the kitchen but they were out of line. I had to remind myself to control my anger.
It was a boring day with no magic going on. I heard something crash from my old baby sitter's house. I went to look at the place knowing that Mrs. Figg was very old and could be in trouble.
There was someone in Mrs. Figg's house but it surely wasn't her because the woman was a lot younger.
"Hi Harry come on in?" the woman said. She looked awfully familiar but I couldn't well place where I saw her.
I went inside the house and sat on the couch. The house didn't smell like cabbages like it used to "How...how did you know who I am?" I asked a bit confused.
"Of course I know who you are. I took care of you when the Dursley's are away," she said.
"But Mrs. Figg was the one who took care of me not you," I reasoned.
The woman transformed right in front of me she turned into the old Mrs. Figg then to her young self again. "Now do you believe me Harry?"
"You and Mrs. Figg are one and the same?" I asked. I still couldn't believe what was going on.
"I'm a witch Harry like your parents. Do you think the Dursley's would trust me to care for you if they knew I was of your parents' kind?" she said.
I just couldn't believe it. A witch was actually looking after me all this time.
"I think after staying at Hogwarts for four years now you wouldn't be startle upon seeing me changing. If the Dursleys ever ask you who I am tell them I'm Mrs. Figg's daughter, Arabella," she muttered.
Arabella Figg, where did I hear that name before? I'm sure I've heard that name mentioned somewhere.
"Harry?" she said and I was a bit startled. I looked at the warm face of a woman who would probably be the same age as Sirius. Of course I know that face! It was like I was having a Eureka moment. She was the girl in my parents' wedding with Sirius.
"Arabella? Do you know any one named Sirius Black?" I politely asked. A smile broke into her face.
"You mean your God father Sirius. Of course I know him. Although from his last letter to me he's still in hiding at Remus'. I know you have a lot of questions to ask me but let's take it a day at a time and maybe before you live for the Granger's you'd get your answers," she said and I was a bit taken a back.
"How did you…?" I was about to ask.
"How did I know about Hermione? I've known all about your friends, Dumbledore, owls me everything. Ever wonder why no one can harm you when you're here at the Dursleys?" she asked and I just nodded my head. "Well, Harry. I'm your Secret Keeper. Just as Sirius was supposed to be for your parents but he traded with Peter and that rat betrayed your parents," she said sternly and for a single moment there I thought she was about to cry.
"So, you know my parents?" I asked and she smiled at me and said yes. "But why didn't you tell me about them?" I asked.
"Harry, I was in no position to tell you the things that only Dumbledore can say to you. Yes Harry, I know your parents. Your mum was my best friend. And Harry, I'm your god mother," that last thing she said made my face lit up like a 60W light bulb.
"You're my god mother? Then you and Sirius…must be" I tried to say and she just blushed.
"Sirius and I was about to get married then but since he was imprisoned and I was tasked to take care of you, we simply lost touch," she explained.
I wonder why Sirius never told me about her before. "Harry I think you better go back to the Dursleys. Come back tomorrow so we can talk some more. But before you leave can I hug my little Harry now that he's all grown up. I'm sure Lily and James are so proud of you," she muttered as she gave me a tight hug. It was a very nice feeling. It was almost like having my mother hugging me and holding me in he arms.
That night I got a letter from Ron and I'm glad that he didn't find anything wrong with my staying at Hermione's. I wrote my best friends.
Dear Hermione,
This day is such a wonderful day. I finally met my godmother. She's Arabella Figg, doesn't her name sound familiar to you? She's been looking after me since I lived at the Dursleys. I'll be having a little more fun before leaving here but of course I can't wait till I see you again.
Love,
Harry.
P.S. I think I'll start reading for my advance Potions essay.
Then I started on my letter to Ron:
Dear Ron,
You wouldn't believe who my neighbor is? She's my godmother and she's so nice. I think I'll be having a better time here before I leave for Hermione's. I ask Hermione if we can stay at the burrow for the latter part of the summer vacation. Good luck with the training I know you and Ginny will make it.
Your Friend,
Harry
Lastly I took the time to write to Sirius and tell him my amazing discovery:
Dear Sirius,
How are you and Remus doing? Any news about Voldemort yet? I hope that the ministry is doing something about it rather than trying to cover for it. Something brilliant happened today. I met Arabella Figg. She's very nice and very pretty. Well, I think you have a lot of things to share to me about her. Before I forget to tell you I'm staying at Hermione's for the rest of the summer. Hey, Sirius just curious when did my mom started dating?
Your godson,
Harry
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The next day after finishing my chores and getting yelled at the process I went and rested at the lawn just staring at the sky and marveling at the beautiful clouds and thinking about my friends when I found my cousin Dudley at my side doing the same.
"So are you thinking of her?" he asked me. I couldn't believe what was happening. Dudley actually initiated a conversation with me.
"What do you mean, thinking about her?" I asked him pretending not to know what he was talking about but I'm sure he was referring to Hermione.
"Her, that girl who kissed you at the train station. I think she likes you and you like her too," he surprisingly said.
"What made you think that? Of course we like each other were friends," I wasn't sure why I was having a normal conversation with Dudley but maybe it was because we were at the same awkward stage in life.
"Harry, I can't believe you're that thick. I know a lot of girls and I can tell if they like someone or not. She kissed you didn't she and did she do the same to your other redhead snotty friend," Dudley commented. His last remark reminded me that it was Dudley I was talking to. I wasn't sure if I believed him when he said he knew a lot of girls he although he probably made a few of them cry because of his bullying.
"She only thinks of me as a friend that's all. She can't like me that way, she has better and more accomplished admirers," well, I was only referring to Viktor Krum but who knows there might be others who like Hermione and doesn't say anything about it.
"Well, I don't know much about your world but from what that old man said to father before we went and picked you up in the train station, he said you're some Tournament Champion and I think that's something that can turn women on," Dudley said. Dumbledore probably came to tell the Dursleys personally what happened. I didn't tell him that the one thing I liked about Hermione was she never cared whether I was the Triwizard champion or not or if I'm just plain wizard and not the boy who lived.
"So Harry, what is she like?" Dudley asked and I really wasn't sure what I should say to him but when I started talking about Hermione I really didn't care if it was Dudley I was talking to.
"Hermione is very intelligent. She's top of our class and is good in all our subjects even in Potions, which is good because neither Ron nor I were good at it. She's bossy sometimes but she's very good-natured. She's always there to help me out. She's very dependable and loyal even at times when I completely ignored her she still worries about me. But I never took the time to thank her," I said.
"But you're going to her house, right?" he asked and I sat up and nodded. I could see that Dudley was still round and fat and probably a lot bigger than uncle Vernon but he had a kinder look on his face that I have never seen before. "Maybe you should tell her how you appreciate her," it wasn't actually the kind of advice I'd imagine hearing from Dudley but he really said it.
"Maybe I will," I replied. I was actually thinking that my cousin had changed but I didn't expect this big a change from him.
"Harry, I'm going to tell you something but don't tell mum and dad. I'm sorry if I've been such a brat to you for the whole time you have lived with us. I'll try to be a better cousin to you from now on," Dudley said and he stood up and went inside the house. Now I was confused. Dudley was being nice to me and the weird thing is he even promised to treat me well. I suddenly had the urge to look at Mrs. Figg's house and there, Arabella was smiling at me. She must have been watching Dudley and me talking a while back. I had a feeling she had something to do with Dudley's sudden change.
The days passed and I anticipated my trip to the Grangers but for the mean time I had Arabella to tell me stories about my mum and dad. The things we talked about were miscellaneous things and not the hard facts like why Voldemort wanted me killed and those other things because she always told me that it's Dumbledore who has to tell me everything when the right time comes. I read a nice letter from Hermione today about her trip to Diagon alley with her cousin. From her story I'd say Oliver Wood had finally met his match. I can't wait till I see Hermione again and hopefully I can convince her to go the burrow for before the end of the summer. Dudley was also a lot nicer to me to his parents' dismay. He also asked me a lot about magic and he found interest in looking at my photo album with moving pictures. Although I had to make sure uncle Vernon and aunt Petunia aren't around to see us.
Sleeping was tiresome because of my nightmares, sometimes I dream of the night when Cedric died or the night my parents died and the dream I dread the most was seeing Voldemort taking Hermione away. I just couldn't figure out what was going on inside my head. Only a couple of days waiting, I hope I can last that long.
To be continued….
Author's note: thanks to the people who have read The Last Task… Sorry the ending was a bit packed too short…I'll try to make this one enjoyable to read but I have to say this would be bit lighter than the first chaptered fic I made… I'll think the sequel thing over….toodles r/r