The lime green taffy (don’t eat it, you idiot)
Alsephina walked Harry through the small cottage, pointing out each room. Andromeda walked ahead of the two, adding another level above the house with her expansion charm. She turned and said, “Alsephina, your room is now upstairs along with Harry’s. You’ll have to share a bathroom, but you should both be set. Harry dear, let me know if you want anything else for the room. It just has the basics at the moment.”
Harry’s eyes teared up slightly as Alsephina dragged him up the new oak steps. “It took me thirteen years to get my own room at the Dursley’s…” Harry sighed as they reached the landing. The tension in his body left as he thanked the gods they wouldn’t have to share a room. T hat would have been awkward. To say the least.
“Well, you don’t have to worry about that here,” Alsephina patted Harry on the shoulder and led him in front of a slick dark blue door. “The only thing I will warn you about in advance is that Nymphadora sings loudly every morning in the shower, which will be directly below your room,” She snorted, recalling the many muggle songs loudly sung at 5am. “Mom cooks similar to Mrs. Weasley; I think they secretly went to a muggle cooking class together. She’d never admit it though. Dad will try to rope you into his book collection about charms, but he’s harmless. Mostly.”
Harry chuckled as she opened the door in front of them. “As long as she doesn’t sing as loudly as you do at parties, I think I’ll survive.” His eyes widened at the mix of deep blues and reds on the walls. His hands traced over the mahogany bookshelves and wardrobes. “This is all mine to use for the summer?”
Alsephina rolled her eyes, “Harry, don’t be dense. Didn’t you hear my parents talking on the way over?” His eyebrows knitted together as he tried to recall what he heard before he fell asleep. “Well, they said, if you wanted to of course, that you can stay as long as you like.”
“Like after the summer or..?” Harry continued opening compartments in the closets and wardrobes.
“Forever, you git. Get with the program already. My parents already love you more than me, I can see that twinkle in my father’s eyes.” She chuckled.
“So wait, during winter breaks and even next summer?”
Every break with her? Could I even bear it? He asked himself. The last time they had spent that long together…
Alsephina slapped her palm to her forehead. “God, you’re acting like Ronald. No wonder you two hit it off so well. Harry, if you want it to be, my home can now be your home as well.”
His eyes widened as the realization hit. She nodded with her eyebrows rising, ‘There ya go.’ She thought to herself.
Harry suddenly collapsed onto his new bed, crying. She ran over to his side and rubbed his back. His back burned under her touch.
“That would be great, I hate it there, so much. I don’t think I can live through that again.” He rubbed his rosie cheeks with his sleeve, catching his tears.
But staying here would be another form of torture. Not like they’d be able to stay long anyways with fourth year around the bend.
“I’m sorry I didn’t ask my parents earlier, Harry. I should have. I know I'm a shitty friend for that, but I want you to know that you’re safe here.” She sighed as she stood up from the bed.
“You’re not a shitty friend, I’ve just never told you guys just how bad it gets the-“
“No, don’t blame yourself.” His eyes widened at the comment. She had said something similarly before.
“We should have known, "she said sternly as she reached into the cupboard. “Well, anyway. There are extra blankets in here. You don’t have any clothes here except for what you brought to Hogwarts. Therefore, my Mom insists we go shopping tomorrow. Though, I disagree. I’d rather-“
Harry’s face lit up at her words, “Thank god.” He hated wearing clothes that didn’t fit his body. After he started quidditch, Dudley’s old clothes were now too tight on his thighs and biceps. He never thought the day would come again .
“Yeah, now you won’t look like you’re wearing children’s sizes.” She shoved his shoulder as he sat up. Though she’d never admit just how many times she had checked out his biceps when he wore his muggle clothing. He gulped as he traced his neck with his fingertips. “You can find your style.” Alsephina chuckled. Again. She missed seeing him in deep brown leather.
“Never really had that before, either. I’d have to get money from Gringotts, it’s been ages since I went.” Harry reached into his pants pocket and gazed at the few Galleons he had left over from the school year.
“Have you talked with your case manager?” She asked as she leaned against the doorway.
‘I know it’s a no, just say no, Harry.’ She thought to herself.
“My what?” He asked, eyes wide. He faked a small gasp. I should have gone sooner.
She rolled her eyes, and leaned her palm on to her forehead against the doorway.
I have a feeling I’ll be doing this a lot this summer. Has he gotten more dramatic? Jeez.
“Each pure blood family has a case manager. They have all of the information regarding your assets, money, your parents will, blah, blah, blah.”
Blah, blah. She had explained it similarly before. He shook his head at her as he chuckled.
“So wait, the money they left to me in their will may not be all of it…?” He asked as he ran his hands through his disheveled hair. He still hadn’t quite learned what all his family had.
“To be fair, your family line is loaded. So probably not.” She shrugged.
“So-“
“Harry, anymore questions will have to be aimed at my mother, I’ve gotta go take care of the dogs. You’re one of my best friends, but my brain is jello after the train ride.”
He chuckled, and thought to himself of how she had Ron answer the rest of his questions last time.
“Besides, she knows a lot more than me. And the dogs will start barking like crazy when they realize I’ve been home all this time and I haven’t said ‘Hello’. I think you’ll like them. They’re crazy but total love bugs.”
He had met them before, just once in passing . He looked forward to spending more time with the animals as they reminded him a bit of Sirius.Harry chuckled at the thought as he gave a slight wave.
Alsephina nodded and shut the door lightly. She walked over to the emerald green door and swung it open. The last time she was in this room, she was sixteen. It was the summer before Dumbledoor passed. It looked the same as it did then. Tapestries of moving star maps, oceans, and flower fields hung above her on the ceiling and walls. Her sister had enchanted them and helped her hang them up her first summer back from Hogwarts.
She sighed as she lay against the deep green comforter on her bed. It had been some time since she’d seen her older sister, but perhaps it was best. She didn't know what happened to her during the battle and it plagued her mind daily.
A soft knock tapped on her door. Andromeda entered slowly, empty laundry basket in hand. “Don’t forget to put your clothes in the hamper for laundry later. I don’t want to find a moldy quidditch sock like the year before.”
They both chuckled as she took a seat next to Alsephina on the bed. “Harry has never been taught what it means to be pure blood, mom. He doesn’t know what a case manager is, anything like that. I always assumed that he knew, but he doesn’t. We have to help him.” She sighed, leaning her head against her mom’s shoulder. Andromeda patted her daughter's head lightly.
“That’s such a shame. Your father and I will take him under our wings, don’t you worry. Try to have some fun with him this summer, I know he needs it just as much as you.” She nodded at her mom, and stood from the bed.
“That’s the plan, at least. Who knows though, considering he is the Boy Who Lived and seems to be cursed to not have a good time, ev-“ Her mom gave her a pointed look. “Alright, well, I’ve gotta go take care of the dogs before they go digging up dad's plants again in protest.” They both chuckled, remembering Ted’s bright red cheeks as he yelled about the garden a year prior.
——————-
Harry smiled, content as he closed the door behind him. He sat on his bed and traced along the navy silk comforter. “Mine.” he whispered to himself as he laid back on the pillows. He wondered what the rest of the house looked like as he slowly stood, ready to explore. I hope the dogs like me this time. Harry thought to himself as he stepped down the stairs.
Alsephina spent most of her summers with the dogs, Linus and Theo. It was rare when she traveled to the Burrow, most often she was left to herself in the house. With the dogs. Her mother had busied herself by opening a small coffee shop in their town, with a built-in library. She walked Down the stairs into the kitchen where their kennels were kept. Their tails thumped loudly against the metal cages as she walked closer. She sighed in relief at the sight of their drooling faces.
“Hey, boys.” She teared up as leans her head against the kennels. They had been killed by a death eater last time, when her parents barely escaped. She would protect them this time around. All of them.
“You’re such a softie out of school.” Harry smirked, watching her get tackled by the animals as she opened their cages.
“Oh shut, it, Potter.” She snapped and rolled her eyes.
“Aweee there she is, our Chimera.” He snickered as he took a seat next to her on the floor. Linus, the Dalmatian, tackled Harry with kisses instantly. Alsephina smiled to herself as she watched his glasses get covered in saliva. So they do like me this time.
“I still can’t believe Fred’s nickname caught on from when I was little. It’s such a stupid one, right Leo?” She asked and scratched behind the chocolate lab’s ear. He just stared blankly, cocking his head to the side. He doesn’t have a single thought in his brain.
“Were you just overly sassy or something?” Harry chuckled. He had never heard the story.
Linus collapsed in his lap and rolled over to show his stomach. Harry obliged and scratched it lazily.
“Obviously, but it is because of my hair. I can’t morph like Tonks, so I suppose I needed a nickname I will never live up to.” She sighed, rubbing a palm across her face. “Oh you know, like the name chameleon. Makes a lot more sense, honestly.”
“Fred only gives nicknames to the people he either really cares for or respects, and that’s rare for either.” Harry patted her on the shoulder as he looked at her curiously.
“So is it Fred you like then?” Harry asked. He cocked his head to the side as he watched his friend stick out her tongue in disgust. Dumbass . He couldn’t help but smile to himself. His shoulders released a bit of tension that held in his shoulders.
“That arse? Hell no.” She gagged which made him burst out laughing.
“I thought he was considered to be a ladies man.” He said, wiggling his eyebrows back and forth. Alsephina pushed him slightly.
“Oh shut up. He’s not my type.” Harry rolled his eyes.
“I sincerely doubt that Alsephina unless if you-no way. Is it George?” He fake gasped. She tackled him back to the ground, covering his mouth with her hands. His eyes turned down for a moment before forcing a smile beneath her fingertips.
“You don’t say a word more, or I will cut out your tongue in your sleep, do you understand me?” She threatened.
His eyes widened as he lifted his arms in surrender at her sides. He preferred not to know in the first place, why would he tell anyone anyway.
She nodded slowly and slid off of him. “So you prefer the quiet type, noted.” He nodded slowly as they both sat up. His cheeks flushed red. As she glared at him. She didn’t need him guessing every person she interacted with in her life.
“If you continue to talk about it, I’ll have to ask about your crush on a little re-“He slammed his hands over her mouth, making her smirk. His fingers burned as her lips grazed his skin.
“Alright. We’re even. No need to talk about either.” He sighed as he took his hands away from her face.
“Harry and Alsephina, dinner is ready!” Her mom yelled from the bottom of the stairs.
She paused above the stairs as she said,”And by the way, I don’t have feelings for George. I just don’t want to talk about who I actually like, that's all.”
He kept his thoughts to himself as they made their way down the stairs.
———-
Alsephina crawled into bed just as a small ‘tap’ echoed from her window. She grunted as she shoved back off the covers. Nigel, her family’s owl swooped into the room with two letters in tow.
Dear Ms. Tonks,
I’m writing to let you know I will be out of the country for some time, as I believe I have found a way to brew my own antidote at a better cost. For that, I may be hard to get a hold of.
Please keep me updated if any plans are made regarding Turner.
Best Wishes,
Remus Lupin
——————
Dear Alsephina,
I believe we need to meet in person. Write back with a date and location. We have much that needs to be discussed.
-Draco Malfoy
——-
The next night, Alsephina reached for her shared notebook with Hermione after an interesting day.
‘I don’t think I’ve ever seen Harry so..Harry in all of the years we’ve known him.’
-A
‘Why do you say that? ’ -H
‘ This is an entirely different person, I swear.’ -A
‘Are you going to tell me what happened or do I have to guess?’ -H
‘We went to Diagon Alley- He was able to meet with his case manager.’ -A
‘Didn’t he not do that til his, what, 5th or 6th year? From what you’ve told me?’’ -H
‘Well, I was hoping this might help him early on and-‘ -A
‘Al, we have to be careful of what all we do and change. I don’t think this will end negatively, but still.’ -H
‘Well, we both agreed we need to change things. Maybe this time Harry will tell Ginny earlier with his newfound confidence.’ -A
‘Yeah, I definitely don’t want to deal with him pining while she dated Dean. That sounded disastrous.’ -H
‘I don’t think anyone does because it was…horrid.’ -A
‘Al, I’m serious. What if it’s already been changed too much and it turns out worse?’ -H
Alsephina sighs as she slowly closes the book, contemplating her answer.
‘I think all we can do is just use what knowledge we have of future events and use it to what little advantage we do have.’ -A
‘I feel like we need a diagram of all the upcoming events of this year. Do you think we should tell-‘ -H
Alsephina interrupts ‘No. we can’t tell Dumbledoofus. If that’s what you were going to say. Screw that old man. Using a bunch of kids as pawns for the “Greater Good”? That’s rubbish and just all around bullshit.’ -A
Hermione snickered at her response.
——
The rest of the summer at her home was spent similarly, only coming to a halt as a strange letter arrived one Saturday night in late June, close to the witching hour.
“Who the hell sent an owl this late? Poor thing.” She muttered as she rushed to the window by her bed to let the creature inside. Errol flew in, flopping onto her mattress. She took the envelope from his claws and opened it slowly.
Dear Alsephina,
Sorry if we woke you up, but shipping at night is the only way to not get caught by Mum.
-G
Yeah she’s started raiding our rooms each night throwing away our product. Rather rude if you think about it.
-F
Anyways, we’ve sent you and Harry some beta testers for some of our new products. They’re labeled this time around. Avoid the lime green taffies, they’ll make you barf like no tomorrow.
-G
Seriously, it’s disgusting. Let us know any critiques or ideas. We are making a supply for the upcoming year.
-F
We hope you’re having a good holiday.
-G
He doesn’t know I’m putting this, but he hopes YOU specifically, Alsephina, have a good holiday.
Hugs and kisses and all that soft bs.
Sincerely, The Twins
“Wotcher got there?” Harry asked as he shuffled through the candy packages on her bed in his pjs.
“The twins sent a letter with some tester products.” Harry paused as his fingers landed on a delicious looking salt water taffy.
“What for?” He asked as he slowly unwrapped it.
“They want to get out any kinks before the start of the school year. They said to avoid the lime green taff-“ she said as she watched him spit it out of his mouth and into his hand.
“Why?” He asked, drool spilling down his lips. Please don’t make me get extreme acne. He hated being back in his 13 year old body. He had finally stopped getting spots after Malfoy Manor.
“They’ll make you barf like bo tomorrow, apparently.” She laughed as he threw the taffy into the trash can next to her bed.
“Joy. Those twins are brilliantly terrifying.” He sighed as he leaned against the bed post. Her eyes lingered on his arms that were folded against his chest. Damn those quidditch workouts. His eyebrow perked for a second as he noted the direction of her eyes.
“Couldn’t sleep, or did Errol wake you?” She asked as she watched the bird snuggle into her covers, snoozing. He smirked at the change of conversation.
“Kinda both, actually. Was having some shitty dreams, Errol woke me from it.” He shook his head as he ran his hand through his hair. He missed having her hands —
“Harry, do you think that if something happens, there’s a reason? No matter what it is?” She asked as she sighed into the palms of her hands.
Honestly at this point in my life there had better be a reason. He thought to himself as he took a seat by her side on the bed.
“What’s goin on?” He asked as he rubbed her back. His hands warmed as he ran his fingers across her shoulders. He missed having her under him . He blushed profusely at the thought. Not like that. Jesus. He shook his head as she spoke.
“It’s nothin, I’m just talking out of my arse right now.” he frowned a bit as she said, “I need to get some sleep, is all.”
“You don’t have to lie to me. You can tell-“
“Not yet. Okay? I’m not ready.” She whispered.
He nodded and left her side slowly. He could still feel the soft fabrics of her shirt under his fingertips. He hated how her eyes fell to the floor. He wanted to scoop her into his arms, but he hesitated. He looked away from her and at the sleeping bird and said,
“Well, get some rest. I’ll take Errol downstairs so you won’t have to deal with his freak out when he wakes up.”
“That bad?” She asked.
“Yes, that bad. He’s broken many windows at the Burrow.” They laughed together as he took the sleeping bird out of her room, shutting the door behind him. He hated how her smile fell when he started to turn away. God, he hated it.
———
Ted and Andromeda sipped tea at the kitchen table as they heard laughter from upstairs. Ted smiled to himself as he said, “I think this is the most we’ve heard her laugh since her sister became an auror.”
Andromeda nodded and smiled back. She cocked an eyebrow as she said, “We can’t adopt him, you know.” His smile faded as looked at her curiously.
“Why’s that my love?” He asked as he took a sip of his tea.
“Because I believe Harry has feelings for our daughter.” Ted spit his tea out onto the table as Andromeda rolled her eyes. “It’s not like he hides it well. If the crush dissipates, we will ask what he wishes to do.”
“Do you think it’s mutual?”
———-
Dear Alsephina,
I’ll have you know that your theories on the Milk Thistle is seeming to be correct, so far. It did help with the disgusting taste, but I’m afraid it’s still too expensive for me to use often.
I’m currently learning the conditions needed to grow Myrrh. You were right on some of the connections you told me of. By this time next year I should be able to brew wolfsbane myself, easily.
I’m happy to hear that Harry is adjusting well. I’ve worried for years how they treated him, but Albus always assured me he was safe and cared for. What an arse. Never thought I’d say that of that man, but if he truly knew. I could go on but I won’t.
Someday I hope he won’t just see me as his professor. Thank you for trusting me. I hope you’re able to actually enjoy your summer, while it lasts.
Best wishes,
Remus Lupin
——
Dear Alsephina,
You’re telling me, and you’re not lying, that Harry is staying with you? That’s a dream, honestly. He’s gotten fit since he started playing quidditch. Have you thought about shagging him yet?
I’ve heard Lavender’s already lost her ‘V’ card. Some muggle kid. Not sure if I fully believe her. I can’t tell if I’m jealous or disgusted, honestly.
Anyway, I’m going nuts alone here. Write to me, I beg of you.
-Susan Bones
——-
Dear Alsephina,
Do you have any plans for your birthday? I know your mom usually throws something small? Anyway, let me know. I’ve already got your gift. You don’t have to let me know if you don’t want to.
-Neville
———
Dear ‘Mera,
I assume Susan has wrote to you? I think I’m going to go nuts if she is not crazy AGAIN this year. Why couldn’t she be in your house? I’m going to have to deal with her in the dorm making googly eyes at Cedric Diggorduffus.
Kill me, ‘Mera. Otherwise she will be the death of me. Anyway, I am curious though whether the rumor is true? Are you and Harry shagging?
Write back to me with a winky face if it’s a yes! I support you either way, my little minx.
-Hannah
Ps. Harry is so fit now, I wouldn’t blame you at all.
——
Dear Alsephina,
What do you mean you aren’t together? Why not? He’s beautiful and so so good with his hands-
Alsephina slammed the paper upside down, refusing to finish reading it with her parents sitting across from her.
Why must she be like this? Damn you, Susan.
——
Dear ‘Mera,
You should be grateful you only have one sibling. Fred and George have made it their mission so far this summer to test their new products on me while I sleep. I haven’t slept at all for days, it seems.
I wish you all were here, they ease up a bit. What are you planning for your birthday this year?
-Ron
———
Dear Alsephina,
I hope you’re having a great holiday so far, but how has it been having Harry there? Have you told him yet? Anyway, write back to me soon.
-Hermione
Ps. Sorry for the short letter, mum’s kept me busy with teaching me to knit. So far nothing has worked, although using my wand helps.
———
Dear ‘Mera,
How’d the testing go? Sad to hear we didn’t get any feedback about the green taffy, but that’s understandable. We have a few other candies in the works if you wish to try them as well.
-G
———
A month passed quickly and suddenly it was two days before Alsephina’s birthday, July 8th. She was going to be 14, again.
Harry and Alsephina sat at the small kitchen table as Andromeda rushed around them with breakfast.
“Mrs. Weasley sent a letter asking if we want to come a month early, instead of just a week. Apparently Ron is getting restless without us.” Harry passed Alsephina the parchment, not noticing that Andromeda had paused in her cooking, listening in on the conversation. What could that woman possibly want?
Alsephina slowly grabbed the parchment, watching her mother closely. “That would be a lot of fun, but I doubt my parents would let me go with. Especially since we’d be going directly before my birthday.”
Harry picked at the food on his plate, “Yeah, that’s fair. Maybe they could come with?” He asked.
Alsephina spat out the orange juice in her mouth, “You're joking right? My parents? At the Burrow?”
Harry shook his head slightly.”No..why?” He asked with his left eyebrow raised, as he tried to hide the smile that tugged at his lips as she wiped away the orange juice from her chin.
She looked back and forth between him and her mother. “That would never work. Mum hates Molly.”
“I do not!” She yelled from the kitchen. Alsephina rolled her eyes.
“So she says, but anytime the woman is brought up, she instantly gets into a bad mood.” She snickered, getting a light smack from a wooden spoon on the shoulder.
“Alsephina. I do not hate Mrs. Weasley. I simply do not like the way she parents. Especially the twins and younger ones. She expects only one outcome for them even though they are all different children. It’s dreadful really.” She stated as she watched Harry’s mouth fall open. He had never thought of it like that. Something had always bothered him about Molly, but he never understood why, at least until now.
“Yeah, she can’t even compare to you, mom.” Alsephina hugged her mom’s side, catching her off guard.
“Now, now, eat your food.” She sputtered, as she headed back into the kitchen.
“So do you think we could, though?” Harry asked. Part of him hoped to stay at the Burrow while the other half enjoyed, (a bit too much), the alone time he has had with Alsephina.
Alsephina shrugged. But would it really matter?
“Probably. I just hope we wouldn’t be leaving til night time cause I had plans for tomorrow.” She smiled softly as she remembered her cousin writing to her in a letter. He hadn’t been kind, but he hadn’t been awful either.
Harry cocks his head to the side mischievously as he watches his friend smile. “Are you meeting someone?” He asked.
“Not like that, Harry.” She started.
“She’s meeting Draco in Diagon Alley!” Andromeda yelled over the oven timer. The muffins were done. He head cocked to the side as his eyebrows furrowed together.
“Why? When did you become friends?” Harry asked, disdain dripped from his lips.
“We’re not. We have a few details that need to be discussed.” She said quietly as he rolled his eyes.
“What, like what hair gel he uses?” He asked as he muttered into his food. He’s always been an arrogant ass.
“His side of the family isn’t doing wel-”
“She’s trying to convert him.” Ted joked as he made his way into the room, giving his wife a kiss on the cheek.
“What, is he catholic?” Harry asked, confused.
Alsephina choked on her drink as Andromeda cackled. Ted smiled widely as he said, “Morning.” He greeted Harry and Alsephina. He walked over to the shelf, pressed play on the CD player. “Better Man” by Pearl Jam started to play as Andromeda handed out the muffins.The group hummed along as they ate, each chuckling at the end of the song.
They spent the rest of the day listening to music her dad had found on the muggle radio stations earlier that week. It was one of their favorite things to do as a family, Harry realized as he listened to the Tonks sing together. Not very well, but together.
——-
“God, Harry, can you go any slower?” Alsephina huffed as she waited for him next to the fireplace.
Harry Rolled his eyes in response and joined her side. She had always been impatient. And it drove him nuts.
“Did you not sleep last night or something?” Snapped Harry as they prepared to enter the floo network.
“Sleep is for the weak, Harry. Of course I didn’t sleep. No need to be an arse.” She grabbed a handful of the green powder as she said, “Anyway, Diagon Alley!” She stepped into the green flame, disappearing from his sight. He followed quickly behind her.
Harry had asked to come along, he needed new quills after his snapped when he wrote to Ron the previous day. She hated to admit that she had rather gone alone.
Alsephina left Harry outside of Flourish and Blott’s, much to his annoyance, and made her way down the bustling street. Draco was sat outside the ice cream parlor, reading. She snuck up behind him and whispered into his ear, “See, you and Hermione would get along. My little nerds.”
He slightly jumped in place as he whipped his head to his right, in disgust. “You’re late.” He pointed towards his watch which read 12:06.
“Some of us don’t have time anxiety, you know.” She snickered, which earned a glare from her cousin.
“I had to sneak away using my broom while my father was out of town, and yet I was still on time, early even.” He sneered.
She paused in her movements.
“Has he gotten worse yet?” She asked quietly.
His eyebrows furrowed in response. “Mother and I just try to stay out of his way these days. Though that’s none of your business.”
Alsephina sighs, “Draco, you can always talk to me about it.”
“And why would I do that?” His eyes narrowed as he stared her down.
“Because I already know what’s going on.”
“Oh really?” He challenged. “Go on. Tell me, then, since you’re all knowing.” He rolled his eyes as he crossed his arms across his chest.
“Your father has been leaving the country often, and has been talking about the Dark Lord and how he has come back.” She shrugged as he huffed.
“What facts do you have to back up your lies?” He sneered, though he ran his hand through his hair. She noted how his eyes now shifted between her and the floor.
“You know what I speak of. If you don’t want to believe me, then that’s fine.” She began to stand as he stopped her. He let go of her wrist as she sat back down.
“Tell me everything or don’t bother at all.” Draco snapped. She held back an eye roll as she noted the panicked little boy hidden behind his piercing, gray eyes.
“When would you like me to begin?”
—————-
Hours passed as Draco yearned for fire whiskey. His head pounded as it devoured every tidbit of information she gave. He asked question after question. He hated that it made sense. She had told him what he needed to know.
“Draco, if things do get worse, we can get you out of there. I’m sure there are so many safe pla-“
“Alsephina, there’s nothing we could do. Father would find us. He always does, and it just makes it all worse. Clearly, history will repeat itself.”
“Alrighty, I understand.” She sighed.
He hated how she looked at him. Pitiful. Pathetic. But he hated that he didn’t see her the same way, not anymore. The disgust he had for her had been diminished within a few hours. He wasn’t sure what to think of himself — what his father would think of him seeing him sitting with her like they were lifelong friends.
She parted ways with Draco and joined Harry a quarter ‘till five. Their nostrils flared as they tried to soak up the delicious aromas as they entered the Tonks household. It was a tradition in the family, albeit a strange one to Harry, that the night before each birthday they were to have a ‘mock Italian’ night. It was the children’s favorite food, but Andromeda despised cooking the fake Italian food they asked for. Garlic bread and chicken Alfredo, where she had learned of such blasphemy, she wasn’t sure. Unfortunately this year, she had to cook it three times, possibly, if they had stayed there instead of going to the Burrow.
The small family sat around the table, grabbed plates and bread as they talked about their trip to Diagon Alley. Andromeda was sad to hear about ‘Cissy and Draco not doing too well, she always thought Lucius was a git.
“When do we leave for the Burrow?” Asked Harry as he dug into the white pasta. He repeated to himself how the Alfredo had become his favorite meal over and over as he took each bite.
With a full mouth Alsephina replied, “Eight.”
Ted and Andromeda rolled their eyes at her lack of manners. Harry replied, to Andromeda’s horror, with a full mouth of food, “Alright.”
After the dinner, her mother sent her and Harry up to their rooms to triple check their bags to make sure they had everything. The two teens waited anxiously in front of the Floo fireplace, waiting for the Weasley’s arrival. Two tall figures stepped through the green flames as the clock struck eight on the wall.
“We know you were expecting someone else,” started Fred.
“But Mother sent us anyway.” Finished George as they grabbed the bags from Harry and Alsephina’s hands. George paused as his hand landed on hers, “Happy birthday, Alsephina.” He whispered and pulled the luggage away quickly. She nodded, avoiding eye contact. She had completely forgotten that the twins would also be at the Burrow for the duration.
‘How am I going to avoid George now? Hermione and I have much more important plans to work on then stress over how red in the face George got when we made eye contact when he stepped through the floo or when-‘
“Alsephina, are you coming?” Harry interrupted, with a slight frown as they all stared at her, waiting for her to enter the floo fireplace. She had become flustered around the twins, much to Harry’s annoyance.
She nodded quickly and joined saying, “Ready as I’ll ever be.”
Moments later, they stepped out of floo. Night had fallen across the Burrow as the Weasleys shuffled through the house, as they readied for bed.
“Good, just in time.” Arthur Weasley smiled widely at Harry and Alsephina. She gulped as she remembered what had happened to him in the Department of Mysteries.
Harry leaned in, “Are you alright?” He asked as he watched her eyes nervously dart between each Weasley. Did she see what I saw?
She nodded slowly and chuckled lightly. “Yeah, of course.” She said as she followed Mrs. Weasley into the kitchen.
“It’s good to see you, dear.” Mrs. Weasley pulled her into a tight embrace, slightly picking her feet off of the ground.
“You too, as always.” She replied, sighing deeply once Mrs. Weasley released her.
“Now, I wanted to ask ahead of time whether you wanted an extravagant party for your birthday, or something small?” Molly asked as she motioned Alsephina to followed her up the stairs towards Ginny’s room.
“Preferably something on the smaller side, if that’s alright.” She remembered the last time, when she had celebrated her birthday in the later years in Grimmauld Place. All of the order had come, along with many Hogwarts students that could travel and supported the Order. A shiver ran down her spine as she remembered being incredibly close to kissing Harry around that time.
“Of course, hun. I’ve already set up the blankets for you. Hermione should be here sometime in the morning. I’m going to put some tea in the pot if you can’t sleep.” Mrs. Weasley nodded with a wide smile as she left her side and said her ‘goodnights’ to her children.
“You know my mother doesn’t know what a small party is, right?” Ginny snickered as she pulled Alsephina into a hug. She forgot how much Ginny grew by the end of their fourth year. Now she was still Alsephina’s height. Barely five three.
“One can only hope.” Alsephina laughed as she set down her bags.
One can only hope.
The wee hours fell upon the small cottage as light footsteps could be heard making their way down the stairs. Alsephina sighed in relief as she saw no one in the living room. Her eyes widened in shock as she rounded the corner – directly into a sleepless George.
“Wotch-” His words caught on his tongue as he looked down at Alsephina.
“Sorry, I didn’t see you coming around the bend.” She sidestepped, allowing him to pass. He stood still for a moment, gazing at her.
“Why aren’t you asleep?” He asked, eyebrows furrowed together.
She rolled her eyes. “I can ask you the same thing, Weasley.” She teased as she walked into the kitchen. He followed as she poured a cup of tea into a mug.
“Dreams.” He whispered. Her eyes darted to him curiously.
“Same here. Do you want to talk about yours?” She asked as she took a sip from her mug. He shook his as she nodded. “Fair enough.”
He gave a slight wave as he rushed back up the stairs toward his bedroom. She sighed once his figure was out of view.
Thank god. She had dreaded any alone time with the twin as the last time…
She leaned against the counter, frozen in place as footsteps echoed from the stairs. George reappeared, looking greatly disheveled.
“Can I ask you something?” George asked as he entered the kitchen.
“Technically that is a question, but I’ll allow another.” She smiled slightly, but it dropped as she studied his face. His eyebrows were scrunched together, his eyes were red and puffed up.
“What’s wrong?”
“Did something else happen? Cause I feel like I’m going nuts after your accident. I’ve never- we’ve never flirted. Ever until recently. It’s confusing the hell out of me. Am I just reading into things when I shouldn’t be..?”
“When did I flirt with you? Even if I had, why is it confusing?”
He nodded. “It’s- just- Why the sudden change – you used to gag anytime Fred and I joke-flirted with you. And now I feel like I’m playing with your feelings and I don’t want to do that.”
He thought flirting with her was a joke? Was that what he was saying?
She crossed her arms against her chest, holding her mug against her shoulder. She frowned as she recalled their recent conversations. He noted the anger, possibly even sadness that began to radiate from her.
I really am an asshole. He thought to himself as he started to apologize. She held up her hand, stopping him. She shook her head as she walked away – leaving him alone in the kitchen in silence.
So I was originally correct. She thought to herself as she walked slowly up the stairs. Back when she had originally gone through third year, into fourth, she had been insecure and had thought George had been joking about his flirtations. She hated that she had been correct. Her stomach began to ache as she held back her tears. She paused on the stairs above the girl’s room – above the twin’s but below Ron’s.
“‘Mera, what’s wrong?” Harry and Ron stumbled down the steps toward her. She hid her face into her arms as they sat on the stairs next to her.
The boys shared a look as they saw George slowly climb the steps in front of them. He paused at the sight of her rubbing her eyes and shook his head as he stepped into his bedroom. Harry held Ron back as Ron began to stand to go after his brother, to figure out what had been said between the two.
“It’s alright, Ron.” She whispered as she stood. She gave the boys a small smile before she entered Ginny’s room.
“What the bloody hell was that all about?” Ron asked as Harry stood and began climbing the steps.
“I believe there were some…unreciprocated feelings discussed.” Harry sighed as they made their way back to Ron’s room. Unfortunately.
Ron paused on the stairs as he muttered to himself. “Typical.”
Morning came quickly, but not quick enough for George who laid awake the rest of the night – going over what he had said. “You look a mess, did you not sleep a wink?” Fred asked him as he grabbed a towel to hop into the shower. George shook his head as Fred rolled his eyes.
“I think I really fucked up, Freddy.” Fred paused in the door as he heard George whisper.
“What’d you do this time, you arse.”
———
Ginny shook Alsephina awake as Hermione had arrived. Her eyes shot open at the mention of her best friend’s name. Ginny watched her curiously as she jumped out of bed in sweat pants and ran out the door.
Alsephina slowed down on the steps as she reached the landing. A smile widened on her face as her eyes landed on the curly haired brunette. She always admired the volume Hermione’s hair could achieve. It was beautiful, glorious even.
“Al!” Hermione yelled as she reached her best friend. The girls hugged tightly as Hermione noted her friend’s swollen eyes.
“How was your trip to France? I know it was cut short-”
Hermione smiled and swatted her hand, “I’m happy to be able to spend more time with you all. My parents are still in France, visiting my uncle now.”
“Did you ski much?” She asked as they both walked into the kitchen where everyone had begun to sit at the table for breakfast.
“Some, we mostly spent time walking the streets and shopping. I have presents for everyone, and an extra couple for you to open for your birthday.” Hermione smirked as she reached into her purse and pulled out handfuls of gift bags. Everyone’s eyes widened at the sheer number of items she could hold in her fingers.
“You spoil me, Granger.” Alsephina chuckled as Hermione shoved three large bags into her arms. Hermione paused as her fingertips lingered over her last gift to her friend. This one can wait. Her cheeks flushed a light pink as she passed around the remaining gifts to the Weasleys and Harry.
Alsephina’s cheeks flushed a deep crimson as her fingers traced along a silk, eggplant colored, dress. Ginny gasped as she pulled out the floor length dress. “Oh my god,” Ginny said as she ran over to Alsephina’s side.
“It’s beautiful – Hermione you shouldn’t have.” Alsephina hugged her friend as her heartbeat quickened once again.
“I saw it, and knew it would look gorgeous on you.” Hermione winked as George sputtered at the sight of the gown. Bloody hell, I’m in for it.
Alsephina glanced at George slightly, then rolled her eyes. What an arse. He can drool all he wants. As he should. Fred snorted in response.
“Now, Weasley’s, don’t open your gifts until after breakfast.” Hermione instructed as she sat next to Alsephina with a light red tinge to her ears.
Alsephina glanced up at Harry, who had been staring at the dress in her hands with a crimson tinge to his cheeks, nose, and ears. She raised an eyebrow in question as he glanced away quickly, and ran his hand along his neck. What was with everyone today? Ginny looked at her curiously as her hair turned magenta, but only for a few seconds.
Breakfast passed quickly as the Weasley children shoveled their food down their throats, eager to open their presents. Alsephina watched curiously as Hermione excused herself from the scene. Fred’s eyes lingered where her figure had walked past the cabinets as he pulled out a copy of ‘World’s Weirdest Plants and Their Magical properties’. He passed the book to George as they switched gifts. She had given him a book on ‘Protean Charms and Their Many Uses’ .
“She knows us well.” Fred gulped as they hid their books from their mother.
Ginny had been given a deep green dress that would cling to her hips, much to her excitement. She didn’t have many feminine clothes, especially ones this beautiful. Harry and Ron had been given a protean notebook that shared a connection with Hermione’s and Alsephina’s. They had planned to tell Harry and Ron tonight, once the others had gone to bed. Mrs. Weasley had been given new knitting needles and Mr. Weasley had been given an encyclopedia with pictures.
“She does know us well, boys.” Arthur smiled widely as he began to flip through the pages of his new book.