Chapter 6
Charlie Weasley was not one to be easily rattled. He had faced down dragons, endured scorching fires, and survived countless adventures in the rugged landscapes of Romania. Yet, as he paced back and forth in the Burrow's cozy living room, his heart pounded like never before.
"Charlie, mate, what's got you all worked up?" Harry Potter asked from his seat on the worn-out couch, looking up from a book on magical creatures. Harry had come to visit the Weasleys for a break from his Auror duties, and Charlie’s restless pacing had caught his attention.
Charlie stopped and ran a hand through his fiery hair, his freckled face flushed. He hesitated, not knowing how to voice the turmoil inside him. How could he explain that the reason for his anxiety was not a fearsome dragon but the very person sitting calmly in front of him?
"It's... complicated," Charlie finally muttered, avoiding Harry's gaze.
Harry closed the book and set it aside, giving Charlie his full attention. "Come on, it can't be that bad. Is it something at work? Family trouble?"
Charlie sighed, sitting down heavily on an armchair opposite Harry. He stared at the floor, trying to find the right words. "No, it's not work or family. It's... It's personal."
Harry leaned forward, concern etched on his face. "You know you can talk to me about anything, right?"
Charlie's heart ached at the kindness in Harry's eyes. It was that very kindness, combined with Harry's bravery and loyalty, that had ensnared Charlie's heart. How could he have allowed this to happen? Falling in love with his brother's best friend, the Boy Who Lived. It was absurd, impossible, and yet here he was, unable to shake the feelings that had grown over time.
"I know, Harry. And I appreciate it," Charlie said, his voice barely above a whisper. "It's just... I'm not sure how to deal with what I'm feeling."
Harry nodded, waiting patiently. "Feelings can be tricky. But sometimes talking about them helps. Who knows, maybe I can help you figure things out."
Charlie's stomach churned with a mixture of hope and dread. He took a deep breath, deciding to be as vague as possible. "Have you ever been afraid of... falling for someone?"
Harry raised an eyebrow, a small smile playing on his lips. "Yeah, I have. It's a scary thing, but also kind of amazing. Why? Is there someone you've got your eye on?"
Charlie's cheeks burned. "Something like that. It's just... unexpected. And I'm not sure if they feel the same way."
Harry's smile widened, and he leaned back, looking thoughtful. "Love can be pretty unpredictable. But you won't know how they feel unless you take a chance and tell them."
Charlie's heart sank at the thought. Telling Harry how he felt seemed impossible. He couldn't risk their friendship, the bond that had formed over years of shared experiences and mutual respect. But Harry's encouragement brought a glimmer of hope.
"Maybe you're right," Charlie said, forcing a smile. "Thanks, Harry. You always know what to say."
Harry grinned. "Anytime, Charlie. That's what friends are for."
The word "friends" echoed in Charlie's mind, a bittersweet reminder of the line he dared not cross. He stood up, feeling more awkward than ever. "I think I need some air. I'll be back in a bit."
Harry nodded, still smiling. "Take your time. We'll be here."
Charlie turned to leave, his thoughts a whirlwind of confusion and longing. As he reached the door, he tripped over the rug, stumbling forward and barely catching himself. He glanced back, his face crimson with embarrassment.
"Watch out for that rug," Harry said, chuckling softly. "It's got a habit of tripping people up."
Charlie managed a weak laugh, muttering a hasty, "Yeah, thanks," before rushing outside, leaving Harry behind.
As he stepped into the cool evening air, Charlie's heart pounded with a mixture of relief and frustration. He had managed to avoid revealing his feelings, but he knew he couldn't keep them bottled up forever. One day, he would have to confront the truth. Until then, he would cherish the moments of friendship, no matter how painful it was to keep his love a secret.