Prologue of Sorts
The burrow already feels packed even though Albus knows his family arrived early. The wards would have to be adjusted for the Potters, Granger-Weasleys, Weasleys, and the Malfoys. The adults are sitting at the now larger than average table (thanks to magic), while James and Lily have gone to find their cousins. They’ve all gone to go practice quidditch on the hill.
In their absence, Albus finds himself wondering if he’ll be able to sit next to Scorpius, or if his dad will refuse. He knows most of whatever happened between their families have been squashed, but he can’t help but worry.
The two boys had been so excited on the train back home:
“Stop fretting Albus,” Scorpius had said, resting a hand on his friend’s shoulder, “Everything has already been planned out. Your dad won’t ruin Easter. But if he does then we’d get to see Hermione more angry than she was in any alternate timeline.” Albus laughed as Scorpius shot him a triumphant grin. Albus knew his friend had a point.
. . .
“Don’t forget, this isn’t goodbye. I’ll see you at the burrow,” Scorpius had said as the train had pulled into the station.
. . .
Albus’ current plan was to pass time and wait for his best friend to arrive. He knew he could probably score points with the adults (and maybe Scorpius), if he buried his head in a book. He had just decided on a book and a spot by the fireplace to get comfortable. Close enough to the adults while putting some distance between them while being able to be there when Scorpius floo’d in. However, he doesn’t get more than one page in before there’s a ruckus down the hall. Sure enough James appears racing towards him and waving.
“Albie!” James calls cheerfully, hardly needing to yell being already close enough to touch, “I need you help with something,” he says while trying to catch his breath.
“Please don’t ask me to play with you guys. You already know I’ll cause any team I’m on to lose,” Albus says preparing for the ‘it’s good practice’ lecture as he places his book beside him.
“I mean you could use it but actually wanted to ask if you could get some extra gear from upstairs,” James says casually throwing a thumb over his shoulder towards the staircase.
Albus rolls his eyes, “Can’t you do it?” He groans.
“If I could carry it all myself I wouldn’t be asking you for help, now would I?” James says with a smile that Albus can only read as “you know I’m right.”
“Okay, fine!” Albus replies reluctantly, getting up to put away the now forgotten book.
“Yes! Thanks Albie,” James shouts, grabbing his younger brother to roughly toss his already messy hair. This makes Albus grumpier having at least tried to make it look better for Easter dinner. James doesn’t seem to care if he notices the ever growing chip on his shoulder. He just laughs when Albus tries to shove him away.