Chapter 17
Nothing like a crisp winter air to set the tone for the day. Aoife and George strolled by the Black Lake before the Second Task takes place. On the weekends, Aoife usually walks from and to the lake after breakfast every weekend. George since then has joined her. However, because it's a Friday, classes are exempt for the time being.
It's been hinted based on the given clues that the next scenario is an underwater task. The thin layer of ice since then washed away. Of course there would be no way telling the occurrences underwater. Dumbledore will most likely have to deduct what's going on as the audience sits and watches a still lake.
"Fred and I are planning to take bets," said George.
"What do you think's going to happen?" Aoife asked while swinging their hands.
"Hmm," the redhead thought in careful consideration. "Either Cedric or Krum will come out on top and Harry will tie with one of them."
A likely prediction to happen no doubt. Ever since Harry performed well in the First Task, more and more students are on his side. Even some of the Hufflepuffs who bad mouthed him after the whole incident in the Great Hall. Of course with the exception of the Slytherins.
"Guess we have to see once the task is being held," suggested Aoife.
Neither seen Ron nor Hermione at the breakfast table. Cho wasn't around as well. Wonder if it has something to do with the task. They themselves most likely wouldn't have known. Only one way to find out when the Second Task takes place.
"Indeed we shall," George pulled her close for a kiss. His usual chapped lips on her soft pouty ones, which she didn't mind. Let alone never mentioned nor complained. Only to timidly hold back causing him to chuckle. "What? You scared of me?"
The honey blonde lowered her gaze and shook her head. Then pulled his beanie down to his eyes.
"Very funny," he removed the beanie from his eyes. Only for his girlfriend to bring the article of headwear down to his eyes again and run inside the stoney building. George once more placed his beanie back in its original place then chased after her. "Oh, I'll get you for that! You can't outrun me."
Unsurprisingly, he was right. George with no effort at all caught Aoife, lifting her in the air. "Put me down," she said between giggles.
"No," he replied smugly.
"Please?" she pouted.
George shook his head no. Making sure to hold on tight, so she couldn't squirm her way out. Doesn't help he's stronger than her because of his physique. And in that moment the in comparison lithe blonde witch tossed the beanie on the ground.
"Put the poor girl down, Georgie," came by Fred holding two boxes. Oddly enough, the younger twin did so. Rather than the usual back talk to his brother. Aoife gave back his beanie she's thrown.
"Careful, my dear," continued Fred casting a smirk. "He has head lice."
"I must've got it from you," George retorted, causing his twin's smirk to drop. "Anyway, as I recall. She's not your dear."
"Hmph," Fred hummed unfazed. "Now come on. We have bets to settle." The other redheaded twin rolled his eyes with a grumble. But managed to hold himself together for Aoife as he kissed her temple.
"So, what kind of bet are you doing exactly?" Aoife asked in genuine curiosity.
Fred smiled at the honey blonde in return. "I'm so glad you asked, my dear girl. We're -"
"We're," interrupted George. "collecting money for bets if people choose to buy do so."
Aoife creased her eyebrows at the idea. Would it count as soliciting money? Apparently teachers don't seem to care if the twins weren't stopped by past antics. Of course she chose not to mention her concerns. It's how they are. "So another one of your get rich quick schemes?" she instead asked.
The brothers exchanged glances. "Something like that," answered Fred before George even could. "But don't tell anyone. Trying to keep it on the QT for now."
"My lips are sealed," Aoife made a motion with her index finger and thumb.
Fred in response playfully wagged his finger at the honey blonde. "I like this one, Georgie. Keep her around."
George swung his arm around a blushing Aoife. "No way am I ever getting rid of her. Not even when hell freezes over."
Fred rolled his eyes and shook his head. "Whatever, lover boy. Now let's get to business."
The younger twin sighed and grumbled under his breath, but obliged to keep his brother from continuous yapping. "See you later," he kissed Aoife's temple before joining Fred.
~~~
Expectedly, Hermione and Ron wasn't in sight in the audience. Aoife doesn't see Cho either.
So, they really are part of the Second Task's challenge. Wonder if they all willingly agreed to this and do the competitors themselves know? Would be horrible if the latter. Fleur's little sister, Gabrielle, who is barely even ten is in there. Maybe Madame Pomfrey is right. It's absolutely horrible and ridiculous to make kids partake in such a tournament. Yet, students need parental permission to visit a harmless village.
Aoife instead of joining rest of the audiences in the stands, stayed in the pier where the contestants would stand. Minutes felt like hours when all one is staring at is a still lake. The audience all stared. As if expecting something to happen anytime soon. Not long after, a blonde head poke through the waters. A group of her friends, including Aoife helped her up.
"My sister," she coughed out water while clinging onto Aoife. "I couldn't get her out." One of the friends tried to her best ability calm her down, only for Fleur to lash out at her. The friend back away slowly before another meltdown were to take place.
"Fleur, listen to me," the younger blonde kept her voice firm, yet gentle. "Your sister is going to be okay. I'm sure someone's going to get her out of there."
It was no lie the part veela was a bit shocked seeing how soft other the girl in front of her usually is. However, Fleur decided she was right. Her meltdown isn't going to make matters any better. All they can do was stand and wait. She swatted any of the friends' hand when they tried to comfort her.
Cedric and Cho were the first ones to poke their heads out of the water. Aoife went over and draped a towel over Cho while Ernie McMillan did the same for Cedric. "Thank you, Aoife," the fellow Ravenclaw girl said.
Hermione and Krum came out not long after. Leaving now Harry, Ron and Gabrielle. Apprehension grew on the veela's face as well as the rest of the audience. Surely if Harry is unable to complete the task, a rescue team should be sent after him. Fleur grew more worried than ever for her little sister. Aoife hesitantly went over and held her hand. As luck would have it finally, two heads peered out from the water. A redhead and a blonde. The collective audience witnessed Ron carrying Gabrielle to the pier. Thank heavens Harry followed shortly after.
The two girls rushed over to help the remainder. Not without someone pushing past them hurriedly. A young red haired man in thick-rimmed specs. Aoife immediately recognized him as Percy Weasley. He shook Ron profusely in tears asking if he's all right repeatedly.
"I'm fine," Ron grumbled, holding out a hand. Never has been a fan of the constant smothering. George had to pull them apart. But not without sneaking in a glimpse at Aoife offering a shrug and a grin for his two brothers' play.
Fleur trying her best to stay calm and composed, helped her sister get onto dry land. The little girl clung onto Fleur as being whispered comforting words in their mother tongue by her. Aoife draped a towel over Gabrielle, who shyly stared down at her feet, not knowing what to say.
"No problem," Aoife said kindly. Figuring she's probably just at the stage of learning rudimentary English. At least that earned a smile from the little Delacour girl, who was an exact younger carbon copy of her sister.
Once the competitors and their companions were settled, it was time for Dumbledore to announce the winners. Fleur joined the others as Gabrielle stood by Aoife's side. Clearly not happy about her performance thinking she could've done much better or done something differently. Cedric and Harry tied with Krum coming in second and leaving Fleur in third place. Aoife figured the poor girl perhaps cracked under pressure. Good thing Harry was able to save Gabrielle. Not that she didn't have any faith a rescue squad would go after her once the task was over.
The part veela came back looking defeated.
"Don't be too hard on yourself, Fleur," Aoife said softly.
"I know," Fleur sighed. "Just humiliating someone else was the one to save my sister." If there is one thing Aoife always admired about Harry, it's him never leaving someone behind. Given his circumstances, she understood.
"It's all over now," the blonde Ravenclaw assured. "And hopefully no one else will be involved in the last task."
"Hopefully," Fleur parroted.
Aoife placed a hand on her shoulder. Not able to imagine participating in this tournament. How did the Ministry ever gave the check of approval. More thought given, a tournament of eternal glory isn't as what it's cracked up to be.
***
As the day drew to a near close, children either took the time to get some homework done or other activities. All while waiting for their parents. Dylan and Ari stood by Aoife's side when waiting for their mother. She has already spoken with Mrs. Bradbury before anything else was to take place. Isaac decided to join Aoife and the two brothers.
"Hello there," he greeted. "Hope I'm not interrupting anything."
"Not at all, Is -" Aoife paused before correcting herself. "Mr. Goodwind."
Isaac winked at her. Staff were strictly encouraged to refer to one another formally around children no matter what. No exceptions. "It's fine," he said. "No one is around an earshot, so feel free to call me by Isaac." To Dylan and Ari: "And of course you boys won't tell."
Dylan and Ari in much enthusiasm shook their heads. If there is anything, young children love the idea of keeping secrets.
"So tired," Isaac pretended to fall asleep on Aoife.
"Once we get home, you'll have the best nap ever," Aoife promised.
Isaac sighed. "Let's hope Hazel and Magaly don't want to do anything last minute."
True. Sure the two can do what activities amongst themselves, but that's not the case. Everyone must join in. Aoife patted his back. "We'll just have to convince them for the coming weekend instead."
Isaac bopped his head in agreement. "So boys, what did you and Miss Branson do today?"
"We did lot and lots of things," Dylan smiled widely. "We read about the beast and its tail and told Miss Branson about l'homme malade."
"Oh, that sounds scary," said Isaac. "I hope both those things aren't real."
"Don't worry, they're only pretend stories," Ari chimed in politely.
"Phew! I'm glad," Isaac ruffled Ari's hair.
One by one, The Sanctuary began to empty out as parents came to pick up their children. Each of the children saying 'bye' to their friend. Richelle then came not a moment too early. Her eyes searching for her sons until she spotted them with Aoife and Isaac.
"Mom, Mom, Mom," Ari ran into her arms.
"Hello, brat," Richelle picked up her youngest child. An odd thing to refer him to as, although the little boy didn't seem to mind the slightest. Aoife chalked it up to as her way of affection and their dynamic.
Dylan followed after. "Mom, we read Miss Branson about the beast and told her about l'homme malade."
"Really," Richelle arched an eyebrow. Then turned her gaze on Aoife as she set Ari down. "I hope they weren't too much trouble."
"No trouble at all," Aoife assured.
"She did great with them," Isaac intervened. "And I'm not just saying that."
Aoife's cheeks turned a baby shade of pink at the kind compliment. "Though in the end, it's for Mrs. Bradbury to decide."
Richelle nodded in understanding. "That's Aunt Carolyn for you, but my boys seem to like you, and that's all it matters to me."
Isaac gave a gentle nudge at Aoife. The honey blonde girl smiled shyly. Coming from Richelle of her being satisfied of the outcome, should be good enough. Then as the days progresses, Mrs Bradbury in end gets to decide what Aoife will do. The two women may be related, but they aren't anything alike. Not that Aoife or anyone else for that matter would think so.
"Well, guess we'll see you tomorrow," Richelle continued on last time before departing. "And again, I hate formalities. So, call me Richelle."
"Will do," Aoife replied.
"And your name is Aoife if I'm not mistaken?" Richelle asked.
"It is," Aoife stated.
Isaac then stepped forward. "I suppose then we too are in first name bases." Coming out as more of a statement than a question.
"I suppose," Richelle politely rolled her eyes.
Then turned blond man gave a cheeky smile back. "It's only fair, don't you think?"
"I suppose," Richelle repeated. Not every day she interacts with one of the staffs. If not ever. Except for Aoife, this may be her first time. "But anyhoo, looking forward to seeing you tomorrow, Aoife."
"Likewise," Aoife gave a nod.
The boys in turn bid one last farewell before taking off with their mother. Both Isaac and Aoife watched them leave before they blended into the sea of people mixed of parents and children alike. Isaac rested his elbow on top of Aoife's head. In that instant, she looked up and moved her head out of the way.
"Just needed an armrest, goldilocks," Isaac explained. "And you just happen to be the perfect height."
"Glad to be of service, Iz," said Aoife.
Isaac responded a chuckle. Safe to say on either end they were on nicknames terms. Except from her parents, no one has ever called her a nickname. Not even him. If ever recalled. Even when she has. Not that he had to. In itself is unnecessary. Doesn't matter anymore anyway. Seeming ever so distant now. "Moving on. You enjoyed the cabin?"
"I have," Aoife about give Isaac back the key, but he held back.
"Nah, keep it," he waved off a hand. "Already have a spare."
Aoife placed the keys in her bag. Tiny part of her is glad because she wanted to see more of the art room. Caleb's art room. Just as long as she doesn't touch anything, to which won't happen, everything should be fine. For now the two blonds waited for the others to finish up for the day and join them.
"For the most part, I never been in that one upstairs room," said Isaac thoughtfully.
"Never?" Aoife inquired when catching attention of this information.
Isaac shook his head no. "That room is always locked. Not even a alohomora works."
"Is it password protected?" Aoife's eyes narrowed. "Because it was open when I was there."
"I don't think so," Isaac narrowed his eyes this time. "but we never really bothered. Don't think Mr. Bradbury's godson would like it all that much, since he uses that room for his work and what not."
"I - I - I've been in there," Aoife hesitantly admitted.
Isaac gaped his mouth open which then twisted it to a smirk. "Careful now. If you get caught, by him, he may breathe fire at you."
Aoife laughed softly. "I'll apparate before he gets the chance."
Just when Isaac could proceed a reply, a woman's voice called over. "Isaac, Aoife." The pair of hazel and blue eyes met with the three people in front of them. Two average height women and a much taller man.
"About time," said Isaac in mock impatience.
"We weren't that long," Magaly protested.
Her brother replied with holding up a hand up front and looking away. Not much to her amusement and Hazel throwing him a warning eye.
"You're not funny, Isaac," Andrew failed to hide his laugh.
"Let's go," Isaac faked a nonchalant yawn and making a face at the other man. Again, Aoife could see their interactions were like legit brothers. The two carried on ahead immersed in their own conversation as the remaining three tailed behind.
"Enjoyed your first day?" Hazel asked Aoife.
Aoife snapped out from her slight trance. "I have. Those two brothers are quite the enthusiasts."
"Hmm, from what I've seen," Hazel began. "They seem to like you."
"They sure did," Magaly followed.
In the end it's up for Mrs. Bradbury to decide, Aoife thought in a more realistic sense. Not to sound like a downer, trying to cast away any negative thinking. May be early on, she wanted to keep such a steady job if anything for that matter. After the trouble the two sisters went through to try and get her a position let alone an interview.
"And I want to thank you for it," Aoife felt her voice tightened. Then quickly changed her expression to a hopefully convincing smile, so they don't suspect. Good thing she doesn't feel anything form in the waterlines.
"Hmm, it's the least we can do," Hazel put hand on her shoulder. To Aoife it's more than anything anyone has done for her in a while, and she'll be forever grateful for it.
"And besides," continued Magaly. "We should celebrate your first day."
Aoife this felt a genuine happy smile formed on her face. "No, don't. You don't have to."
"Nonsense," Magaly assured. "It won't be anything huge. Just a stop at the bakery at Haven's Lot."
One prominent thing Mum has always taught Aoife was to never turn to someone's kindness. Maybe once or twice try to turn it down, but if the person really insists, then by all means, take it. "Let's do it," she finally agreed.
"Great!" Hazel declared with a clap. "Let's tell the boys and Dianne."
"I don't think Isaac will like it all that much," Aoife suddenly remembered his words about his sisters making last minute plans.
"Oh, he'll live," Hazel dismissed at the prospect of her brother's annoyance. "Besides; highly doubt he'll say no to you."
A giggle escaped from Aoife's lips. "I don't know about that."
"I agree with Hazel," Magaly added.
No other exchange was said. Except for Aoife to look at the two men up front still conversing amongst each other. Not only them, but she took in her surroundings. Slowly accepting her new normal. As if still not adjusting to it all.
"Hey there, goldilocks," greeted Isaac. "Nice of you to join us."
"Much obliged," Aoife said back. "and your sisters made some last minute plans."
The blond wizard looked back and forth from Aoife to his sisters. "Are you for real?"
"With good reason," Hazel explained. "Aoife just finished her first day of work, and the least we can do is treat her."
Isaac rolled his blue eyes and heaved a throaty sigh. "Fine, even though I'm tired. I'll do it."
Aoife for whatever reason glanced at Andrew who admittedly laughed at Isaac's exhibition as the siblings were in discussion. The auburn haired man caught her staring at him, and added a 'oh well' type of shrug. Far use to the Goodwind siblings by now. He looked as if he wanted to say something to her, however stopped when the three no longer were in their bubble.
"You're doing well," he said simply added by a soft smile.
Uncertain about what he meant by that. Aoife will take that as a compliment of sort. Andrew was never downright awful or rotten towards her. Just avoidant is all. Maybe when or if she gets enough nerve, then she'll ask him. What's his deal? Aoife just has to push aside the dislike of confrontation first. However, there is another theory brewing in the back of her mind. Fingers crossed humiliation doesn't come knocking if it turns out to be false.