Chapter 19
It had been a restless night for Louise. For one she wasn’t used to sleeping outdoors, let alone with the cold weather. In truth, she was also missing Guy- missing everything about him. His touch, his smell, the way he talked to her. She was also grateful that the Outlaws had took her in but for her it could only be temporary. Laying on her side, Louise wrapped her arms around her, noticing that the Outlaws were busy doing their usual tasks. Sitting up, she wrapped the blanket around her, just gazing into the fire.
“You should have something to eat,” Louise heard someone say to her, but she just shook her head. To her, food was the last thing she was thinking about.
“I’m not hungry,” she said quietly.
“You should eat,” Robin said, looking across at Louise.
“I’ll have something later on,” Louise said simply, glancing at Robin.
“Are you always stubborn?” Robin asked.
Hearing his question, Louise smiled slightly, “Sometimes,” She replied, looking down to the floor, “Well nearly all the time,” she said quietly, remembering the time when Guy had told her to stop being stubborn. Guess some habits are hard to break.
“Things will work out,” Robin said, feeling sorry for Louise, “Things will get better in time,” he admitted, hoping that he was right about that.
The night for Guy of Gisborne had been pure torture. It was like he was in own version of hell. He wouldn’t be admitting it to anyone, but he was missing Louise- missing her cuddles, missing her kisses and also missing the opportunity to feel his child move. One of the other things he missed about Louise was her being stubborn- although he certainly wouldn’t be admitting that to Louise. Hearing a knock on the door, Guy sighed angrily, frustrated with the person at the door. It was probably a guard, so no one important and they were used to it. Standing up, Guy put on his t-shirt, answering the door.
“The Sheriff is asking for your presence,” the guard stated.
That was how this all started yesterday. It was how he had lost the best thing he ever had.
“I’ll be down shortly,” he muttered, not really caring on what the Sheriff wanted.
Closing the door, Guy sighed angrily, picking up his belt, placing it around his waist. Picking up his black leather jacket, Guy could almost vision Louise being in the bed, giving him one of her big, beautiful smiles.
Arriving in the hall, Guy looked around, before heading down the stairs. Looking around, he had recognised someone who had been at the wedding. Could this person know where Louise was and more importantly could he change the Sheriff’s mind. If he was remembering right, this person was highly important within the community Louise was a part of.
“Last year, you were fed lies from someone who wanted Louise dead. I have had a visit from Mr Malfoy, so I know what said yesterday,” Kingsley started, “His son was right. Louise wasn’t dangerous and she still isn’t dangerous to this day.”
Hearing the words on what was being said, Guy couldn’t help but feel that there was a tiny glimmer of hope that this situation could be resolved,
“What about the name she has?” The Sheriff asked.
“That name came about when Louise was young,” Kingsley explained, “And I am not going to say what happened that day without her being present,” Kingsley stated sternly, glancing around the room.
“And you are absolutely sure Louise isn’t dangerous?” the Sheriff asked.
“If we thought, Louise was a danger to others, she would not be free,” Kingsley explained, “As it is I am proud to say I fought alongside Louise on two separate occasions, and she is very loyal. To be honest with you, I cannot say bad word about Louise,” Kingsley said, keeping his gaze on the Sheriff.
Hearing the words, Guy couldn’t help but smile slightly, knowing that was the Louise he had fallen in love with. He was however surprised to hear that Louise had been involved in two battles as he had only been aware of one.
“If Louise had stayed here then maybe I may have believed you,” the Sheriff said, standing up, “As it is now, I have no choice but to declare that Lady Louise Gisborne is an Outlaw and if she should return, she will be sent to the dungeon,” he said turning to look at Guy before walking out of the room.
Digesting what the Sheriff had said, Kinglsey was shocked. He had been so sure that he would have gotten Louise out of the situation she was in. Now he had to go and shatter her heart.
“Is there anything you would like to tell Louise?” Kingsley asked, looking at Guy.
“Tell her, I will find a way for us to be together,” Guy said quietly.
Hearing Guy’s words, Kingsley nodded his head, walking out of the room.
Sitting on the bunk, the Outlaws had assigned for her, Louise was starting to form a plan for her future. Knowing that she only had a few months left of her pregnancy, she doubted that the Outlaws would want a baby around. With the door opening to the camp, Louise hid herself on the bunk but when she saw Kingsley out of the corner of her eye alongside Archer, Louise was shocked to see him. Seeing Kingsley with a troubled expression, Louise watched him for a moment. The last time she had seen him like that was during the battle of Hogwarts.
“Kingsley,” Louise said, keeping her gaze on the two males. When Archer had come to sit beside her, she immediately knew it was bad news.
“I’m sorry Louise,” Archer said quietly, “I thought I was helping.”
“What’s happened?” Louise asked, glancing between Kingsley and Archer.
“The Sheriff has named you as an outlaw,” Kingsley explained, keeping his gaze on Louise, “If you return to Nottingham, you won’t be a free woman.”
Hearing what was being said, Louise’s heart was breaking. It was like the world was slowing down.
“You’ve got it wrong,” Louise whispered not wanting to believe him, but deep down she knew it was true. Feeling a tear run down her cheek, Louise quickly wiped it away, placing a hand on her stomach, “I can’t do this alone,” She whispered.
“You won’t be alone,” Archer whispered, “You will have your friends helping you,” he finished, pulling her into a hug.
“But my husband won’t be,” Louise said quietly.
“For the time being,” Kingsley said, “But you can’t stay here.”
“Where can I go?” Louise asked, going through list of places in where she could go.
“Grimmauld Place,” Kingsley replied, “Molly is already there making sure everything is okay,” He explained, “We will take care of you, and you won’t be alone.”
“I’ll be there. Guy has asked me to take care of you,” Archer explained, taking Louise’s hands, looking directly at her, “And he said, tell Calypso to stop being stubborn.”
Hearing the words, Louise smiled slightly. Of course he had used that name. At least she knew he still cared about her.
Arriving at Grimmauld Place, Louise swallowed hardly, standing in the hallway. She had never thought she would be returning here. Walking into the living room, Louise saw Molly, Harry, Hermione and Ron. It just felt like how it was when she had spent some of her summer here when her dad was alive.
“Are you staying here?” Louise asked, diverting her gaze to her brother.
“When Archer isn’t here, yes,” Harry replied, taking in his sister’s appearance.
“Don’t worry about anything,” Molly said sweetly, “You are safe and free,” she pointed out giving Lousie a hug.
“Is it the same bedroom?” Louise asked, “It’s just I’ve hardly slept last night,” She explained.
“Of course, and yes, it is,” Molly replied, giving Louise a warm smile.
With Louise heading out of the room, Molly could tell that Louise was putting a brave face on things. When she had heard what had happened, Molly was prepared to welcome Louise back in but when she got told she couldn’t, she understood why Grimmauld Place was chosen. It was the safest place in where Louise could go.
Being in the bedroom, Louise glanced around, looking out of the window. She didn’t know what she might see but the street outside was quiet. Sighing softly, she made her was over to the bed, climbing into it. Seeing the rings on her finger, Louise sighed softly. That was another thing to sort out but for now all Louise wanted to do was to sleep.
Walking through the corridors of Nottingham Castle, Guy had been getting funny looks of people all day- although he couldn’t exactly blame them. He did now have a wife who was an outlaw. The one thing he was scared of happening had happened. When Kingsley had left, he had thrown himself into the work he needed to do, but now he was enjoying a few moments of peace and quiet. He knew that he would have to tell Louise’s family about what had happened, but in truth he couldn’t face them. How could he tell them that he had allowed Louise to become an outlaw- even though it was intentional. To him, today he had lost his wife and unborn child.
“Sir Guy,” a gentle female voice called him back to reality.
“Marian,” Guy said, looking at the female.
“I heard about Louise,” Marian said softly, feeling sorry for Guy. To her, Guy and Louise had seemed right for each other.
“Louise isn’t dangerous,” Guy said quietly, “Yes she is the girl who lived but last year when that Peter came, he was telling lies,” Guy explained.
“I believe you,” Marian stated, “To me, Louise hasn’t got a bad bone in her. You need to fight for her freedom,” she finished, hoping that Guy would listen to her.
“GISBORNE!” came a shout from the corridor, although they both knew who had shouted him.
“I’ll try to,” Guy said quietly, seeing the Sheriff approach, he tensed up.
“We’re going on a trip, and you are coming,” the Sheriff ordered with both Marian and Guy looking at each other.
“I doubt I’ll be good company,” Guy said quietly, hoping it would be enough to get out of going on the trip, “Shouldn’t someone stay in Nottingham?” He asked.
“I doubt they’ll be much trouble,” the Sheriff replied, “We are all going, and we set of tomorrow.”
Having been at Grimmauld Place for what seemed like forever- when in reality it had only been a day and a half. Her heart was aching for her husband. Yesterday she had made the decision to not wear her wings anymore. To Louise, they bother symbolised a love lost- a love she was never going to have again. Walking into the kitchen, Louise glanced around, as she decided to make herself some lunch. She hadn’t felt like eating, but she was for the sake of her own health.
“You’re awake?” Archer asked, walking into the kitchen.
“I am,” Louise stated, “Although I could have quite easily stayed in bed,” She admitted.
“Well, how do you feel about going out?” Archer asked.
“Where?” She asked, taking a bit of the sandwich she had prepared.
“Leaky Cauldron,” Archer replied, keeping his gaze on Louise, “Apparently Tom’s new year events are not to be missed.”
“You think it’s a good idea for me to be out?” Louise asked, not really liking the idea.
“Yes, I do,” he replied, “You can’t be a prisoner for the rest of your life.”
“Fine but you’re paying,” Louise said simply, “Do you know who’ll be there?
“Everyone,” Archer replied, “Even the Mikaelsons.”
Hearing that everyone was going to be there, Louise smiled slightly. At least if something was going to happen, there would be a bunch of people there willing to protect her, before realising that one person would be missing.
“Everyone apart from Guy,” she whispered.
“It won’t be forever,” Archer stated, “Kingsley is still trying to change the Sheriff’s mind.
“I don’t think his mind can be changed,” she said sadly.
“Well let’s put that to one side and let’s enjoy tonight with friends and family.” He said trying to cheer Lousie up.
“You’re right,” she said, a small smile appearing.
Standing outside of the Leaky Cauldron, Louise was debating on returning back to Grimmauld Place. It seemed to be too soon for her to be out and about. She didn’t know why she had agreed to this, however one thing she could agree with was that it was too late to turn back.
“We can go back whenever you want,” Archer said looking across to Louise.
“No, I’m going to try and stay until the new year begins,” Louise replied, walking into the pub.
As soon as she entered, the pub fell quiet as everyone seemed to stop what they were doing and watched her. This was the first time she had been in here since the wedding.
“Lady Gisborne,” Tom greeted her, “There’s a private room available.”
“No, it’s not needed,” Louise replied, “And please carry on calling me Louise,” She finished, noticing where her family was, making her way over.
Being close to her family, Louise gave them all hugs, feeling tears running down her cheeks. It was probably down to the emotion of the last few days.
“What are you having?” Freya asked, glancing at Louise.
“Just a Butterbeer,” She replied, taking a seat besides Hope.
“That was brave with what you said,” Hope whispered.
“It’s true, here I’m just Louise Potter-Black,” Louise said quietly, glancing to her cousin, “Thank you.”
“Anytime,” Hope whispered back, with Freya returning with the drinks.
Not really keeping an eye on the time, Louise was surprised with the time. It had already meant that she had been here for a good couple of hours but yet they had been emotional and draining. Even though no-one had asked about her husband, Louise had pretended that everything was fine. On the occasion it had become too much, one of her friends or family had interrupted, taking Louise back to the table. Being back at the table, it was where Louise realised that she could get through the next few months. Yes, they would be painful, but she would come back stronger. What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger right?
With the pub falling silent, a frown appeared on her face, noticing where everyone was looking at the door. Seeing Harry stand up, Louise raised an eyebrow as she wondered what was going to happen. Surely Harry wouldn’t want the spotlight on him- well not after the year they have both had.
“I thought you said this place was quiet last year,” A voice belonging to the Sheriff could be heard.
“Well, it was last year,” Another male explained.
Seeing Tom come from behind the bar, Louise watched him.
“Oh no you don’t. You are not welcome here,” Tom said quite sternly.
“What?” The Sheriff spluttered.
“You heard,” Harry said, walking closer to the Sheriff, “You are not welcome here,” he said simply, casting a glance at Guy.
“Harry,” Louise whispered, concerned for her brother.
“What I want to know is how a quiet pub last year can suddenly become a busy pub?” the unknown male asked.
“Well, that is down to a change of leadership and four incredibly brave people,” Kingsley explained, making his appearance from the back room.
“Did you know this was going to happen?” Louise asked, whispering to Archer. Ever since she had heard the Sheriff’s voice, fear had seemed to spread over her.
“Yes,” Archer whispered back, not bothering to look at Louise. Hopefully by the time, they were alone, her anger wouldn’t be as much as it was now, “He’s also here,” he whispered, hoping that Louise would know he was on about.
“I’m going to make you pay,” Louise whispered, glancing to Harry.
“…. Would the boy who lived be here now, if he was dangerous?” Harry asked, with everyone giving a resounding no.
“So, you see, my sister isn’t dangerous,” Harry said, “You may not have liked the way, she left the other day, but Louise went in survival mode- she did what she needed to do to keep her freedom.” Harry finished.
“Very well,” the Sheriff said frustrated, “Louise will be free to return to Nottingham as a free woman once I give the proclamation there,” he finished, looking at Harry, “This is her last chance.”
Hearing the words the Sheriff had spoken, Louise was in a state of shock. This nightmare she had been in for the past few days was finally over. In that moment of shock, she had nearly let out a cheer out but quickly decided against it with Hope hugging her.
“I assume you would like the private room,” Tom said, glancing at the males as the unknown male nodded his head.
“Yes,” he replied, with them all making there way towards the room.
Noticing Guy, Louise watched him. All she had wanted to do was to let him know she was safe and that she was also missing him.
With everyone starting to talk to each other again, Louise glanced at her friends and family.
“I need a drink after that,” Hope said quietly, with Louise nodding her head in agreement.
“So do I,” Louise said quickly, “A strong one, ideally,” she said, knowing that she wouldn’t be getting one- well at least for a few months if that.
“Louise,” Hope said shocked, although she fully understood why Louise had said it.
“What?” Louise asked, “It’s been one of those years.”
“Definitely has and I thought after May it would be drama free,” Hope said quietly.
“Well, we can always hope that next year is drama free,” Louise whispered, glancing over to the room in where Guy was.
“You can surprise him if you want,” Hope whispered, noticing where Louise was looking.
“Not today,” Louise said quickly as Elijah and Freya came back with the drinks.
“You don’t have to worry about anything,” Elijah pointed out, looking at Louise.
“I know,” she said, allowing a genuine smile to appear.
“Guys, we’ve been seen,” Rebekah whispered. Seeing where Rebekah was looking, they all followed her gaze to where Guy was standing.
Seeing Guy standing there, Louise smiled weakly. To her, he looked terrible. From what she could also see it also looked like that he hadn’t slept during the past few days. If it wasn’t due to the fact that Louise was trying to keep a low profile, she would have gotten up and kissed him. Instead, it had been Archer who had gotten up. Afterall, Archer had been the one who had been tasked with looking after her, the past few days. Watching the two men walk away, Louise glanced back to her family.
Walking to the back of the Leaky Cauldron, Archer turned round to look at his brother. He knew he would be in trouble, but when it had been suggested to him, he hadn’t seen any problems.
“Louise shouldn’t be out,” Guy said coldly, glancing at Archer. To him, Archer was playing with Louise’s safety.
“I didn’t see any harm to bring her here, where Louise would be around her friends and family,” He said simply, “She also needed to get out of that house for a few hours,” He explained.
“So, you bring her here?” Guy asked, not really believing what he was hearing.
“Yes, and it is just what Louise needed. Here, she’s been able to be herself,” Archer explained, “I would not take her anywhere in where I thought her safety would be at risk,” he said truthfully.
Realising that Archer was right, Guy smiled slightly, “I would like to see her,” he said truthfully, “Louise should also be in a separate private room.”
“Louise refused a private room when we arrived,” Archer pointed out, “but that can be arranged. It’ll be after midnight though.”
Hearing that she had refused a private room, Guy rolled his eyes. That was typical Louise. “That late?” He asked concerned.
“Yes,” Archer replied.
With midnight fast approaching, Niklaus had made sure that the family had a fresh round of drinks. Seeing Kinglsey coming into the main room, the room fell silent.
“Thank you for coming. The new year is nearly upon us and while we started the year surrounded in darkness, we end the year in a much better place with enormous amount of gratitude to the people who took part in the Battle of Hogwarts. So, if you want to head outside to see the firework display” Kinglsey said as everyone started to make there way outside.
Being outside with her family, Louise noticed, how she was in the middle and how everyone was around her, trying to protect her- especially if the Sheriff had decided to come out and be spotted. However, she was looking around, to see if she could spot her husband. Not being able to see him, Louise glanced forward. Hearing the chimes of Big Ben, the firework display seemed to start. Watching the firework display, a smile appeared on Louise’s face as she made a promise to herself, there and then- that her future wasn’t going to be like her past. She promised herself that she would stand up to her enemies. She would continue to be that strong individual she had been. Even though she had heard the Sheriff’s words earlier that night, she doubted that he would follow through with them especially as she had time to mull over with his last words. This is her last chance.
Seeing Harry’s initials, lighting up the sky in red and gold, Louise smiled, knowing that this was going to be the tribute to them. Seeing her initials LCLPB in green and silver, Louise raised an eyebrow. Surely the last two letters should have been replaced with a G, but she wasn’t complaining- it just showed Louise how hard it was going to be for her change her name in here. Seeing Hermione’s initials in yellow and black, Louise realised that they were doing it all in the Hogwarts colours so Ron’s initials would be blue and bronze. After that, an image of the Hogwarts Crest appeared, with the audience clapping.
With the firework display coming to a close, everyone joined in with singing Auld Lang Syne- which included Louise.