Ignorance is Bliss

Hey everyone! This is my first fanfic titled Ignorance is Bliss. I would rate it as PG or PG 13 for violence.

FYI: This fanfic has some George Weasley romance in it. The entire story is not about George, but he's got a big role as he is my second favorite character next to Harry Potter himself. It takes place two years after Harry graduates from Hogwarts (I am assuming he wins the battle with Voldemort). I think that's all you really need to know.


DISCLAIMER: I am not JK Rowling. Any of her characters you see in this fanfic are hers and I am merely taking them out to play. Any other characters that you have not seen in her story are mine. This was writen purely for enjoyment therefore enjoy!


Ignorance is Bliss

Preface:

“Mummy, mummy, mummy!” A small, panicked voice could be heard down the hall. Janine woke from a pleasant dream and silently cursed the small voice. “Daddy, daddy, Daddy!” The little voice cried this time. Janine moaned and rolled over in her warm bed. This was the third time this week she had been woken in the middle of the night.

“Daddy!” The small voice carried, louder this time. Janine shook her husband awake roughly. All she wanted was to fall back asleep.

“Go and see what she wants,” she said to him, pushing him out of their bed. Kenneth moaned and rolled slowly out of bed. He stood for a moment swaying, then picked up his wand off the bedside table and staggered toward the door.

“Daddy!” The tiny voice shrieked. When Kenneth opened the door, the sound of sobs entered the room and Janine pulled her hands over her ears.

“I’m com-ming,” Kenneth said, stifling a yawn. He closed the bedroom door and lit the candles in the hall with one flick of his wrist. He made his way down the hall, scratching his head as he went and trying not to yawn. He stumbled to the second bedroom on the left. The door was open and he could see a tiny form sitting straight up in her bed, clutching her covers for dear life with Mr. Fluffy, her favorite stuffed animal, tucked under her arm. The candlelight shone lightly on her face and he could see it was tear-stained. His heart sank as she sniffed loudly.

“Daddy,” she said softly.

“What’s wrong baby?” He asked entering the room and sitting at the foot of her bed. She put her arms out to him, abandoning the blanket and Mr. Fluffy. He picked her up in his arms and pulled her onto his lap.

“I’m scared,” she said quietly while snuggling her face against his chest. He never knew he could love this child as much as he did right then.

“Did you have another nightmare?” He asked while soothingly rocking back and forth and rubbing her back. She nodded her tiny head. “You know they’re just dreams sweetheart.” He kissed the top of her head, “They can’t hurt you.” She nodded again. He could feel her tears wetting his shirt. He pulled her closer to him and sighed quietly to himself. He hated lying to this small child. He knew the nightmares she was having were real.

It’s been three years now, he thought, she shouldn’t be able to remember these things.

As he held the small child in his arms he hoped against hope that one day soon the images would disappear from her memory and she wouldn’t have to see them ever again. He had asked for permission from the Ministry of Magic to perform an obliviate charm on her but he was denied. They told him he could do a lot of long lasting damage to the child by obliviating her memory. Her mind was too underdeveloped to do such a thing. No, he had no choice but to allow them to stay and invade her mind at night with dark things a child should never have to see – for now at least. Maybe when she was older he would get permission. A shiver ran down his back as he thought about that awful night. He looked down at the tiny form in his arms lovingly. Her breathing was even and her eyes were closed. She looked so peaceful, sleeping in his arms. He wanted to stay there forever, just like that. He brushed a strand of her dark brown hair from her face. She was the most beautiful thing he had ever seen.

Nearly 15 years later in her flat in downtown London, 21 year-old Abigail Bones was thrashing fiercely in her bed, an outward expression of workings inside of her mind.
She felt small and scared. She was hiding - under the floor it seemed. There were flashed of light and people yelling, screaming, and running. She could feel the pounding of their footsteps on the floor. She was staring up through cracks of what seemed to be the floor of a kitchen. The space she was in was small, dark, and cramped and she was sobbing. She could see people above her- men in black cloaks and masks over their faces with wands in their hands. They were walking around casting various spells in different directions. Then they stopped and their masks all turned in the direction of someone’s - a woman’s - screams in anguish. It was loud and all consuming. Abigail had never heard screaming like this before in her life. It was absolute agony to listen to. Her heart was aching as it pounded deeply in her chest. She instinctively covered her ears yet she could still hear it. She felt something heavy hit the floor a few yards from her hiding place. It was an odd angle but she couldn’t help but look to where it had fallen into a heap on the floor and was shaking. The sight chilled her to the very marrow of her bones. It was a woman and she was now trying to get to her feet weakly. She was crying out for something or someone. Abigail couldn’t make out what she was saying it was a name though. A man in a black cloak walked over laughing mirthfully down at the crawling woman and there was another bright flash of light and more chilling screaming. The woman was twitching on the floor like a fish out of water, screaming and screaming. Abigail didn’t know someone could scream like that for so long. It was horrifying to watch and listen to. She had to help, she had to get out of here and help this woman. Yet she was frozen to the spot. Her feet wouldn’t move and no matter how hard she tried she could not take her eyes from the woman on the floor.
Then suddenly she heard her name as though someone else was in the hide out with her.

“Abby!” Someone was shaking her shoulders urgently, but there was no one there. She couldn’t believe she could hear another voice over the horrible screaming. It was then she realized the screaming had stopped.

“Abby!” Abigail eyes shot open and she sat up so abruptly something large fell from somewhere near with a loud bang. Abigail was momentarily disorientated in the darkness that engulfed her. Her entire body was covered in icy cold sweat. Her heart was pounding as though trying to escape from her chest.

Then suddenly as though she were slapped in the face by an invisible hand, it sank in. She was in her flat – far, far away from that awful heart wrenching screaming. Then just as suddenly the dream evaporated from her mind. She tried to grasp the end of it and keep it there, but she was unable to. She could only remember the screaming. She couldn’t remember who was screaming or why, but someone was. They were in pain and needed her help. Were they in the room? She sharply reached over to her nightstand and flicked the on lamp. After momentary blindness, her eyes came across a girl who moaned from the floor.

“Susan!” Abigail exclaimed throwing her covers off her and sliding on the floor next to her cousin. “Are you alright? Why were you screaming like that?” Susan propped herself up on her elbows. She had a very horrified look on her face as she stared at Abigail.

“You were the one screaming,” Susan said harshly, “I came into to see what was wrong and you were thrashing in your bed and just screaming- it was awful.” Abigail saw her cousin shiver. Visions of her dream flickered before her eyes. The men – the woman – the screaming – the laughing – the flashes of light - Abigail pulled her hand across her mouth abruptly, and leaned back against her bed frame. She couldn’t have been the one screaming. It was that woman in the house – she had been the one screaming.
Her head began to swim and Abigail suddenly realized she wasn’t breathing she had been unconsciously holding her breathe. She ripped her hand away from her mouth and started taking deep gulps of air, but it wasn’t helping much. Her head was still swimming. Susan’s face was coming in and out of focus. Abigail knew it had absolute horror written right across it. Abigail leaned over, staring at the floor, breathing deeply. She had to get control of herself.

It was only a dream, just a dream, she kept saying to herself. It was a horrible dream where that man tortured that woman. There was a sudden jolt in her stomach - she was going to be sick. She leapt from the floor in one swift movement and ran across the room to the bathroom, where she vomited in the toilet just barely making it. Susan came in a second later and pulled her hair back so she didn’t get any sick in it. Abigail, reached up and flushed the toilet, then pushed away from it, until her back was against the opposite wall. The cold floor felt good on the palms of her hands and the souls of her bare feet. Susan pulled herself down into a sitting position facing Abigail.

“What were you dreaming about?” Susan asked tentatively while not meeting her eyes. Abigail shook her head violently and then wished she hadn’t. Her head was still slightly spinning and her stomach was hurting. She didn’t trust herself to speak. It was horrible. Simply horrible, the same images kept flashing before her brain. They seemed familiar to her, like she had seen them before but she knew she had never had this dream before. She would remember if she had. There was something familiar in that woman’s face. Even though she was covered in dirt and blood, Abigail felt drawn to her, like she knew her somehow.
A sudden wave of exhaustion hit Abigail like a two-by-four and she was kept from exploring her mind any further as she felt herself fall sideways along the wall. She was asleep before she hit the ice-cold bathroom floor.

As with most writers feedback (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?p=1451727#post1451727) is appreciated. :tu:

Chapter One: The Party

Abigail Bones sat in front of her computer with a frown across her face and her brow furrowed nearly two weeks after her dream. She hadn’t had another one since. Presently, she was a little more than two-thirds of the way through her 1,000-word paper, and officially stuck. She scrolled to the top of the screen and began to re-read what she had written so far, when the familiar sound of scraping key against her front door reached her ears. She pushed away from her desk smiling, stood up, walked across her bedroom, across the living room, unlocked the front door and pulled it open. There stood her roommate and cousin Susan Bones.

“I hate using a key,” she mumbled as she stepped across the threshold. Abigail closed the locked the door behind her as Susan went into her bedroom. “I don’t know why I can’t just apparate into the apartment.”

“What if I had a muggle friend over Susan? What do you think they’d say if you suddenly appeared out of thin air?”

“I could apparent into my bedroom,”

“And come out and have them see you? When I told them you weren’t here?” Susan mumbled something incoherently. “Besides,” Abigail continued, “our neighbors need to see you come and go or they’ll get suspicious.”

“Alright,” grumbled Susan.

“How was work?” Abigail asked, sitting down on the couch, not wanting to continue writing her paper.

“Oi! That reminds me!” shouted Susan from the other room. Abigail heard her run across her room and stop in the doorway. She hated living on the second floor. Susan smiled sweetly at Abigail, and she knew she wanted a favor.

“What reminds you of what?” she asked. Susan came in and sat on the edge of the black armchair adjacent to Abigail on the matching black couch.

“You are the greatest person in the whole wide world Abby,” began
Susan, “and I know that we’re cousins and you love me very much-”

“Just ask,” replied Abigail rolling her eyes, “buttering me up won’t help,” she smiled to herself, “much.” Susan took a deep breath.

“See, there’s this party tonight-”

“No!” Abigail stood up and began to make her way back to her room angrily

“Abby-” said Susan, standing also, “come on. It could be a lot of fun.”

“No it won’t and you know it,” she turned abruptly back to face her cousin who was two feet behind her. “They are never any fun for me, you know that.”

“Abby please, I want to go.”

“Then go, no one is stopping you.”

“You know I hate going by myself. Why can’t you just come with me?”

“Because I don’t want to…” she paused and looked around the room, “and I have a paper to write.”

“It’s not due until Monday and it’s Friday night,” Abigail scowled at her cousin. Susan recognized that this argument wasn’t going to work so she tried a different tactic. “Besides, you never go out with me anymore. You spend all your time with your friends from school.” This was a mistake.

“I’m not like you!” shouted Abigail ferociously, “I can’t fit in with them! I’ve
tried Susan you know that-”

“Yes, I know you’ve tried, but no one has to really know-”

“I don’t want to pretend anymore!” Her voice was booming through the flat, “All of your friends assume I’m a witch and I’m not! I’m so sick of pretending that I am for them! It was hard enough having to pretend for my parents and their friends and now you want me to go out and pretend some more! I’m not a witch! I’m not!”

“I know you’re not!” This time Susan shouted and that was rare. Both girls looked at one another. Susan took a few deep breaths. “I know Abby,” she said calmly, “It’s just that we live together and I never see you. I’m always working or with my friends and you’re always at school or working, or with your friends,” she paused, “There’s no one else I want to go with to this party. I honestly thought it could be fun. So, if you’re not going then I’ll stay here too.”

“Who said I didn’t have plans for tonight?” Abigail shot, her anger was still there but just barely.

“Do you?” asked Susan. Abigail could see the hurt in her eyes. All her anger ebbed away. She took a few deep breaths to calm down. She hated shouting at Susan.

“No,” she whispered and then sighed, “I’ll go with you.”

“No, if you don’t want to go, I won’t force you.”

“I want to go,” Susan looked doubtful, “I do. It’ll be fun … honest.” She smiled reassuringly. Susan smiled broadly and pulled Abigail into an embrace, “but I’m not pretending to be a witch.”

“That’s fine. It starts at 9 and it’s 6:30. That’s plenty of time,” Susan disappeared into her bedroom and Abigail went to hers. She sat down again in front of her computer and saved what she had written so far for her paper. Then she went into her bathroom and took a nice, hot shower.

Susan was sitting on her bed when she came out of the bathroom, one towel wrapped around her body, the other in her hair.

“You haven’t changed your mind have you?” asked Susan.

“No,” Abigail crossed the room to her dresser, “but I don’t know what to wear.” Susan went to her closet.

“Just put on a pair of jeans and …” she was flipping through clothes, “this blouse,” She tossed Abigail a long-sleeved black blouse, “and this jumper,” and a light-blue jumper, one of Abigail’s favorites.
“Are you going to be wearing robes?”

“I’ll wear muggle clothes and my winter robe over them. I reckon it’ll be chilly tonight.” Abigail scowled at Susan.

“I suppose I’ll wear my winter robe also then.” Susan smiled.

“I’m going to get into the shower. What are you going to go with your hair?”

“Just dry it straight. Why?”

“I was just wondering. All right, I’ll be back.” She left the room and Abigail dried off completely and then slipped into her jeans and blouse. Then she went to the bathroom and dried her long, dark-brown hair with her blow dryer and applied her makeup. Susan came back just as Abigail was finishing. She was the one wearing a towel this time.

“Come and help me decide,” she said and Abigail followed her back to her bedroom. It was messy, unlike Abigail’s, and had to watch where she stepped so she didn’t trip over anything.

“I don’t know how you live like this,” Abigail muttered.

“You said I could be as messy as I wanted to be as long as it didn’t spill out into the living room.”

“I remember I just haven’t been in here a little while…” she walked over to Susan’s closet, which was practically void of muggle clothes and pulled out a light yellow blouse.

“How about this blouse? I’ve always liked how it looks on you.” Susan had already pulled on a pair of jeans.

“Alright,” she took the blouse from Abigail and pulled it on, then picked up a maroon jumped from the floor and pulled that on as well.

“Is that clean?” asked Abigail.

“Yeah,” said Susan, but still Abigail doubted so Susan did a simple scourgify spell and smiled. Then Susan went into her bathroom and dried her hair with her wand. Abigail noticed Parmenides sitting in his cage, his head was tucked under his wing, sleeping. Abigail smiled; she always loved owls so she walked over to the cage. As though he felt her presence, his head came out from under his wing and he looked sleepily at her.

“Hey Parmenides,” she said quietly, “How are you?” He hooted softly at her and she reached her hand in the always-open cage and stroked his soft feathers. He nibbled on her forearm affectionately.

“What are you doing Abby?” asked Susan from the bathroom.

“I’m visiting with Parmenides,” Abigail replied and turned back to the bathroom. She stood in the doorway as Susan applied some makeup to her face. “Do you know where this party is at?”

“Yeah, I figured you could drive in your muggle car and we’ll just park down the street. It’s not too far from here.” Abigail nodded.

The girls arrived around 9:30, Susan insisting they could not be the first to show up. Abigail parked her car and they walked a few houses down, Susan leading. They walked up the wooden steps on the front porch of the house and Susan knocked on the door.

“This’ll be fun,” she said with a smile to Abigail as the door opened wide to reveal an obvious wizard that Abigail did not know.

“Susan!” he exclaimed, “I’m so glad you could come. Come on in!” He stepped out of the way and both girls stepped inside, the warm house.

“Hi Lee,” said Susan, “this is my cousin Abby.” Lee smiled brightly at Abby and took her hand.

“It’s nice to meet you!” He shouted over the loud music coming from the living room.

“You too!” Abigail replied. Susan took off her robe and Abigail followed. There were others walking around in muggle clothes, so she didn’t feel too out of place. Susan hung both their cloaks on a cloak rack by the door and pushed Abigail further into the house. They walked around greeting various people she didn’t know. Some she recognized their names as Susan introduced them, but most she didn’t. Then Susan went to the kitchen to get drinks and Abigail stood against an empty wall in the living room. She half-smiled to herself as she observed all the different witches and wizards around. All her life she wanted to be just like them but she was different. She didn’t fit in here or in the muggle world and being here only made her feel worse.

She was just beginning to drown in her sorrows when she saw a wizard she knew she had never seen before coming down the stairs. He was tall, muscular, and had bright, flaming, red hair. He was very handsome and as though he felt her eyes on him, he looked over at her. Her bright blue eyes met his light brown ones and they stared at each other for a moment.

“I got you some butter beer. I know you don’t drink-” Susan had returned with two drinks.

“Who is that?” Abigail interrupted looking back at the wizard on the stairs who kept glancing at her, not taking in anything Susan had said.

“Who is who?” Susan asked.

“That wizard on the stairs,” Susan turned and looked at the stairs.

“Which one?” It was then Abigail noticed the other witches and wizards on the stairs with the redhead.

“The redhead,”

“Oh,” Abigail glanced at Susan. A smile spread across her cousin’s lips, “that’s one of the Weasley twins. I don’t know which one though, can’t tell them apart,” Abigail looked full-force at Susan now, in shock.

“There’s two of him?”

“Cute isn’t he?” smirked Susan, touching her cousin’s chin. Abigail hadn’t noticed her mouth was open.

“Cute is not the word for it he’s-” but she didn’t get to tell Susan what he was because someone cleared his throat and both Susan and Abigail turned. It was Lee and he was smiling.

“Hi Susan,” He said happily.

“Hi Lee,” she smiled in returned.

“Are you having a good time?”

“Yes, so far.”

“I’m glad,” there was an awkward moment of silence between them. Lee couldn’t have come over simply to see if Susan was having a good time.

“Are you having a good time?” He directed this question at Abby. She simply nodded.

“There you are Lee, we were looking for you,” said the wizard whom Abigail was gawking at a moment before as he stepped out from behind Lee. Abigail almost gasped in surprise.

“Susan, you remember George Weasley don’t you?” Lee asked. Susan smiled at George.

“I think we’ve met once or twice. I was in your brother Ron’s year. I still remember that spectacular ow-” Abigail stepped on Susan’s foot without the two wizards noticing. “Ohhh!” She managed to save her cry of pain into a cry of surprise, “how rude of me!” She exclaimed, “This is my cousin Abby,” Susan pointed to Abigail. George reached over and gave Abigail a very strong handshake.

“I’m George, it’s nice to meet you Abby.”

“Nice to meet you too,” said Abigail trying to make her voice as calm as possible. She had seen very many handsome guys before, but there was something different about George. She smiled at him.

“I don’t believe I’ve ever met you before,” he said.

“No, I don’t think so either.”

“Susan, can I talk to you, for a moment, over here?” asked Lee as he pulled Susan’s arm and the two of them walked away from Abigail and George.

“I would have remembered,” he said not even taking notice of the other two leaving, “if I had met you before. How old are you? If you don’t mind me asking,”

“I don’t mind,” she said, “I’m twenty-one.”

“You didn’t go to Hogwarts then.”

“What makes you say that?” She smiled innocently.

“You would have been in my year and like I said, I would have remembered you.”

“Well, you’re right, I didn’t go to Hogwarts because I-” she was interrupted again.

“George!” shouted his twin suddenly, “Where have you been?” He walked over and spotted Abigail, then smiled slyly.

“Abby, this is my brother Fred. Fred, this is Abby, Susan Bones’ cousin.” Fred smiled and gave Abigail a firm handshake.

“It’s nice to meet you Abby.” Susan and Lee came back at that moment as well.

“Hey Lee, I was looking for you too,” said Fred.

“Hi Fred,” said Susan.

“Hi, Susan right?” he asked. She nodded and they shook hands. “I haven’t seen you for a while.”

“I know,” she smiled, “how’s Ron?” Abigail tried to look interested in the conversation, but just couldn’t fake it. She glanced at George who was staring at her, obviously thinking hard. He smiled when he noticed she was looking at him.

“Do you want to go for a walk?” He whispered in her ear, causing shivers to curl down her spine. She thought for a moment. This was a wizard and she was a squib. He could do anything he wanted to her and she would have no defense. Of course, he didn’t know she was a squib, but she was going to tell him, as he obviously wanted to know where she went to school. He raised his eyebrows at her questioningly and she looked at Fred, Lee, and Susan. They were talking to one another, but none of what they were saying was reaching her ears and she honestly didn’t care.

As with most writers feedback (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?p=1451727#post1451727) is appreciated. :tu:

Chapter One: The Party (Part II)

“We’ll be back,” she said to Susan and before anyone cold call them back both she and George went into the kitchen where Abigail spotted the back door that led outside. George followed her and as soon as she stepped outside, the chilly night air filled her lungs. It was heavenly. She loved this weather. He caught up and walked next to her.

“It’s chilly out isn’t it?” He asked.

“Yeah,” there was a comfortable silence that fell between them and Abigail had to smile to herself. There was something very different around this George Weasley, compared to the wizards she knew. Maybe it was because he was young and most of the wizards she knew were old, because they were friends of her parents, but she knew that wasn’t the only thing.

“So, where did you say you went to school?” He asked finally, she knew it was coming.

“I didn’t,” she smiled, looking up at him. She barely came up past his shoulder.

“Alright,” he smiled, “where did you go to school?”

“No where you’ve heard of I’m sure,” she replied. It was nice just being around him and she didn’t want him to never talk to her again once he found out the truth.

“Why would you think that?” she looked up in his big light brown eyes.

“Because I’m sure,” she smiled still debating mentally.

“If I guess will you tell me?”

“Sure,” knowing full well there was no way he was going to guess.

“Beauxbatons Academy?”

“No,” she replied quickly, “Although I can speak French.” This was more of an afterthought. She loved the language it was beautiful.

“Drumstrang?” Abigail giggled at the look of disgust of his face as he forced out this word.

“Definitely not,”

“Alright,” he said, “You win. I’ve never heard of whatever wizarding school you went to,” Abigail winced. It was now or never.

“I didn’t go to a wizarding school.”

“Why not?” George had both disbelief and curiosity in his voice.

“Because I’m a squib,” the words hit like a ton of bricks. There was a sudden intake of breath. He stopped walking, and she turned around to face him. “I went to muggle schools.” She dropped her gaze to her feet unable to look at the shocked expression on his face as he stared at her, not blinking.

“You’re a squib?” He asked. It sounded a lot worse coming from his mouth then from hers. She nodded. “Wow,” He sat down on a bench that wasn’t too
far behind him.

“I know, that’s the reaction most people give,” she said, standing in front of him.

“What are you doing here?” This was said with pure curiosity and Abigail could tell it wasn’t meant to be offensive in any way.

“I live with Susan, and she asked me to come.” He nodded.

“That makes sense,” he looked up at her, “and it explains why I’ve never seen you before.”

“I guess I’ll go back inside now …” she said and turned to walk in that direction but stopped at the sound his voice.

“Why?” She turned back to look at him.

“You don’t really want to be out here talking to a squib, when you could be in there talking to other witches and wizards.”

“Do you want to go back inside and talk to other people instead of me?”

“I don’t know but I’m sure you do.”

“Who told you that?” He looked genuinely confused.

“If you’re saying this just to make me feel better don’t bother. I’ve been a squib my whole life, I know how to deal with it.”

“I’m not saying anything to make you feel better,” he said indignantly and then horror filled his eyes, “I didn’t mean that the way it sounded,” he said quickly, “I just meant that I like talking to you and I think you are trying to get out of it. Are you?”

“Am I what?”

“Trying to get away from me.”

“No,” she said immediately, “I just thought I’d give you a way out.” They looked each other and for the first time there was tension between them.

“I don’t want a way out,” he said. She smiled and sat down on the bench next to him. Relief filled her body and she felt considerably warmer.

“I don’t think any wizard has ever actually wanted to talk to me after they found out I’m a squib.” She said to the brown grass beneath her feet.

“Really?” he sounded shocked.

“How many squibs do you know?”

“Well one,” he said, “but that’s because they’re really rare.”

“Yeah,” she looked up at him, “I know.”

“Can I ask you some questions, or are you not comfortable talking about it?”

“We can talk about it, but the way you just said that made it feel like you’re going to conduct an interview,” he smiled.

“I was, but I guess that’s a bad idea.” She giggled. “The only other squib I’ve met was a little -er- angry,” Abigail smiled to herself, “So there’s no way I would have a conversation with him, let a lone ask him about it.”

“That doesn’t sound like a very good impression of squibs.”

“Obviously,” he smiled, “you don’t seem angry though.”

“Well, I guess some of us, hold grudges,” she shrugged and he smirked.

“You could definitely say that,” he replied and they sat in comfortable silence for a minute.

“So, are both your parents pure-blooded or what?” he asked a few moments later.

“Yes, Janine and Kenneth Bones. Susan’s dad was my dad’s older brother.”

“I didn’t know Susan had any cousins.”

“Yeah, it’s sort of kept quite. Not too many people really know.”

“So, you’re an only child then?” She nodded. “Is it hard being a squib? I mean, seeing everyone else do magic, but you can’t?”

“Harder then you probably think,” she sighed. “Since I turned 18 and moved away from home, I generally try to stay away from magic. But my parents are paying for my share of the flat and they asked me to let Susan stay with me after she left Hogwarts. She works at the Ministry and so living in London is convenient and I like having her around,” she smiled, “I sort of forgot how handy having a witch around can be.” He nodded knowingly, “What about you?”

“What about me?” He sounded surprised.

“I would like to hear about your family. Obviously, you have a twin. What is that like?” He looked at her for a moment, clearly taken aback.

“I” he paused, “-er-” he ran his fingers through his hair, “I - I’ve never - never really thought about it as rare. I know other twins.”

“I don’t know any twins,” she said, “just like you don’t really know any squibs.” He nodded. “So, what’s it like?”

“Huh?”

“What’s being a twin like?”

“Oh, it’s fun,” He hesitated thoughtfully, “Fred and I are a lot alike. Even our own mum can’t tell us apart,” he smiled and there was a reminiscent look in his eyes, “It is great playing jokes on people. We run a joke shop together and we live here with Lee.”

“You run a joke shop?”

“Yeah, it’s called Weasley’s Wizard Wheezes, it’s in Diagon Alley.”

“I’ve heard of it.”

“Have you?”

“Yeah, from Susan and her friends,” he half-smiled, “only good things of course,” his smile brightened.

“Abby!” A familiar voice called her name. “There you are!” Susan walked over to them quickly. “What are you doing out here?” she asked, “It’s cold.”

“It’s not that bad,” replied Abigail, “you only just walked out.”

“You’re not even wearing your winter robe.”

“I know,”

“I can't believe you’re sitting out here in this chilly air without your winter robe,”

“Bit of a mother hen eh?” whispered George so only Abigail heard her. She had to fight not to smile.

“It’s not that bad,” she repeated without thinking.

“You said that,” said Susan.

“Is there something you wanted?” asked George in a polite tone.

“No, I was just wondering where you went. Fred and Lee are looking for you George.” They sat there for a moment in strained silence. “I guess I’ll go back inside then,” said Susan hesitantly a minute later.

“I’ll come in, in a minute,” Abigail reassured her and Susan turned and went back inside. Abigail sighed. “You’re right about the mother hen thing,” George chuckled. “So, you live here huh?”

“Yeah,” he replied, “Fred and I felt we needed to get out of the house when we turned twenty and so we found this place and asked Lee to move here too, to help pay for it.”

“Your parents let you stay at home after you left Hogwarts?”

“Mum was pretty angry when we opened the joke shop. We thought she might throw us out, but she didn’t. Fred reckons it was because our older brother Percy wasn’t talking to the family. Mum didn’t really want to loose three kids you know?”

“They wanted you to get a job at the ministry then?”

“Of course, Bill, Charlie, Percy and Ron, all work for the ministry.”

“How many kids are there in your family?” Abigail asked in surprise.

“Seven”

“Seven? You have six siblings?”

“Yeah, it’s Bill, Charlie, Percy, Fred and me, Ron, and Ginny.”

“Six boys and one girl? I feel bad for her already.”

“Hey! It’s not that bad,” George joked. “She can defend herself.”

“Is that the order of you all?”

“Yeah,”

“Seven kids … that’s a lot,”

“Trust me, I know,” Abigail sat there for a moment. She wanted to ask if all the boys were as cute as he was, but she didn’t. She had heard of the Weasley family before. They were often called blood-traitors by the pure-bloods and people talked about how little money they had but she didn’t know they had seven children. No wonder they didn’t have any money. Of course, her parents only spoke highly Arthur. He was an old friend of her father’s, though she had never actually met him. They said he was a great man and it was true that he was a muggle-lover like everyone else said.

“I know it’s a shock, but to shock you into silence is a bit much,” George teased.

“I’m sorry. I just can’t imagine having such a large family.”

“Yeah, I kind of miss not living at home-” he paused quickly, “don’t tell anyone I said that.” She chuckled, “Mum usually cooks three times a day at home and without her, we have to do it,” he grimaced. Abigail decided it was a little too chilly out for her. She stood up and George stood up next to her.

“It’s just a little too chilly out here,” she said.

“Yeah, after a while it does sort of get to you. I reckon I should go find out what Fred and Lee want.” She nodded and they walked back into the kitchen. It was warm, cramped, and very noisy compared to outside. She was just going to go to the living room when she felt a strong hand grab her arm and pull her into a small hallway. It was dark compared to the kitchen and small.

“I just wanted to know,” said George barely two inches from her, “if you use owl post.”

“Yeah, Susan has an owl I use.”

“Can I write to you then?”

“If you want to you can,” she smiled. So he wanted to contact her again.

“Good,” they looked at one another and Abigail felt her cheeks flush. She turned and left the small hall, and went into the living room. Susan was talking to a witch she didn’t know on the other side of the room, so she made her way over to them. Susan smiled at Abigail as she approached.

“Abby, this is Hermione Granger,” said Susan.

“Hi,” said Abigail not quite catching her name, “It’s nice to meet you.” They shook hands.

“Nice to meet you too,” said Hermione.

“Did you have fun?” asked Susan with a sly smile on her face.

“Yes, we had a very nice conversation.” Hermione looked between the girls then smiled.

“Well, it was nice visiting with you Susan, but I should go and find Ron. I know he’s around here somewhere.” She stood on her tip-toes and looked around the room.

“Yeah, it was nice seeing you again.” Susan replied. Hermione nodded and walked away.

“She seems nice.”

“Very,” Susan looked from Hermione’s back to her cousin, “what exactly were you talking about out there?” Abigail smiled.

“Why are you so interested?”

“No reason,” Susan looked down at the floor. She was never very good at lying. Abigail drilled holes into her cousin’s head until she looked back up at her, “It’s just it’s not very safe to be going off with wizards you don’t know unprotected. You know that, and ...” she paused, “it’s - er- odd that you’re getting along so well with George. I didn’t think you took to wizards anymore.” Abigail grinned.

“George and I are getting along very nicely actually.”

“I noticed,” Susan smiled brightly, “Are you ready to go?”

“This party was your idea. We are here for you, not for me,” replied Abigail. “We can go whenever you like.”

“I’ve said hello to everyone here. I was hoping Hannah, Ernie, and everyone would make an appearance, but it appears they will not.” She frowned as she looked around. Abigail knew the “and everyone” part of that sentence meant Terry Boot, Mandy Brocklehurst, Anthony Goldstein, occasionally Dean Thomas, Seamus Finnigan, and Neville Longbottom, and - no- she wasn’t going to think about him.

“We can go whenever you like,” Abigail repeated still deep in her thoughts.

“I wouldn’t want to pry you away from a certain wizard. When I tried earlier, it didn’t work very well.” Susan winked, completely oblivious to the thoughts running through Abigail’s head. Her thoughts about that night he died.

“Well, if you really want to go. We can go.” Abigail said softly.

“Good.” Susan looked around the living room again. Abigail shook her head, while Susan’s back was turned. She had to get out of her thoughts before she became trapped.

“Who are you looking for now?” She asked.

“Lee, I wanted to say goodbye.”

“You two seem to know each other pretty well,” Kaitlin smiled suggestively.

“What?” said Susan turning back and then she caught the look on Abigail’s face. “Me and Lee … together? Definitely not, I don’t like him that way, we’re just friends,” Abigail didn’t doubt this until Susan continued, “besides, he has a girlfriend.”

“Oh,” was all Abigail could say. Susan smiled and then pushed her cousin toward the front door. Abigail caught George’s eye from across the room and smiled at him. He smiled back and waved. If she thought George would use the telephone, she would have given him her number. But she knew owl post was the wizard way of asking to see her again so she smiled and followed her cousin out of the front door, taking her winter robe on the way.

As with most writers feedback (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?p=1451727#post1451727) is appreciated. :tu:

Chapter Two: Diagon Alley

That night alone in her bed, Abigail twitched uncontrollably in her sleep. She wasn’t thrashing like before, just twisting and moaning.

“Justin …” she moaned softly, “don’t go.” She was having an all too familiar dream. This one visited her at night almost monthly and she hated it.
In her mind, she was standing in the living room of her flat. It was October of 1998 and she was standing next to Justin Finch-Fletchley. He was frowning angrily at her as she clung to his arm. There was a mirror on her right. She glanced into it and saw a bloody and tear-stained face staring back. Her right eye was bright pink and she knew it would bruise soon, along with many other places on her body.

“Don’t go,” she begged looking back at him.

“I’m going to kill him,” his voice was firm and there was a look of deep hatred in his eyes.

“No, don’t go. Please, I have such a bad feeling,” she pleaded looking back at the stern expression on his face.

“I’m not going to let him get away with this,” he sounded determined but Abigail was not going to give up without a fight.

“I don’t want him to hurt you.” Justin scoffed.

“That won’t happen,” he said, “I can take care of myself.”

“No, Susan will never forgive me if something happened to you.”

“Nothing will happen to me.”

“I know if you leave you won’t come back.”

“Stop worrying and let go of my arm,” he tired to yank his arms from her grasp, but she was quicker and held on tightly.

“I won’t!” She was desperate now. “Don’t go Justin, please.”

“This has to stop.”

“Someone else can stop him.”

“If I hadn’t come in when I did Abby- who knows what would have happened to you.”

“Justin please,” she could feel the tears welling up in the back of her eyes.

“You don’t want me to hurt him do?” Justin tried to pull away from her with
disgust. “That’s why you don’t want me to go.” She tightened her grip on his arm.

“No, that’s not true,” she said earnestly, “I want him torn apart limb from limb, but you didn’t see the look in his eyes. It was deranged, if you hadn’t come when you did-” her voice broke, “I’ don’t think I would be alive Justin. I don’t want him to hurt you.” He looked at her for a moment then sighed.

“Alright,” he said, “I won’t go.” She loosened her grip on his arm, but this was a mistake. He wrenched his arm away from her and apparrated before she knew what had happened.

Abigail’s eyes flung open and she sat straight up in her bed. She had no disorientation this time. She knew exactly where she was. She hated this dream that frequented her mind like an unwanted relative staying past their welcome. She just wanted it to go away and never come back. That night in 1998 was the worst night of her life, and she hated reliving it in her dreams. She lay back down on her bed and tried to force any thought of that awful night out of her mind. Justin was dead and dwelling on the past would not bring him back. There was nothing she could do. It was done. She let others thoughts fill her mind until it finally rested upon an image of George smiling at her. She held this image in her brain until she fell asleep, not allowing her mind to go anywhere.


The next morning Abigail woke with the sun streaming gently into her room lighting it brightly. She had a bright smile on her face, she felt so peaceful. She laid in her soft bed for a minute thinking about why she was in such a good mood and then she remembered. George. He was the last thing she thought about before she dropped off into dream world. No, that wasn’t right. She had been dreaming about something before that hadn’t she? She racked her brain, but the only thing she could think of was George, so she left it there. Her smile brightened as she thought about him and then a thought jumped out at her as though waiting for a weak moment to attack her. Maybe it was a dream. What if the entire thing, was just a dream? She threw the covers off of her violently, jumped out of bed, tore from her room, and ran to Susan’s room. She was still sleeping in her bed, so Abigail began to shake her more aggressively than she meant to, to wake her up.

“Susan, wake up!” She screeched desperately. She had to know if it was real or not.

“Abby,” Susan moaned, “Leave me a lone.”

“I have to know if it really happened! You have to tell me!” Abigail pleaded.

“If what really happened?”

“The party,”

“What party?” There was a sinking feeling in the pit of her stomach. It had been a dream. It had all been just a wonderful dream. Abigail closed her eyes and sank into the floor beside Susan’s bed where she had been kneeling, thinking she might fall straight through it. She covered her face in her hands trying to fight back the imminent tears. It couldn’t have been a dream. She could see his face so vividly. She knew he was real she had sat and talked with him. He looked so real. But it was hard to distinguish her dreams from real life, they seemed real too, especially that –that woman and the- No. She wasn’t going to think about that nightmare.

“Are you talking about Lee’s party last night?” Susan’s voiced snatched
Abigail from the depths of her thoughts. Her head sprang up and she stared at her cousin.

“It happened? We really went?” She finally found her voice.

“Of course we went, you remember it don’t you?” Susan sat up in her bed, swaying slightly. She was not a morning person.

“I thought I dreamt it all.” Abigail sighed quietly, relief rushing through her entire body. She looked at the floor for a moment. How could she have thought it was a dream? She looked up at Susan again, but she was not sitting up any longer. She was lying back down on her bed with her eyes closed. Abigail crept from the room and went back to her own room. She turned her computer back on. Maybe she could write some more of her paper. It was, after all, due Monday and that only gave her today and tomorrow to finish it.

About an hour later there was a tentative knock on her door.
“Come in,” Abigail said, saving what she had written, which wasn’t much. Susan opened the door slowly.

“I’m going to Diagon Alley later,” she paused stifling a yawn, “today to get more parchment and quills,” she wiped some sleep from her eyes, “do you want to come with me?”

“Sure,” said Abigail hiding her excitement in. Normally she would have said no and made up some excuse as to why she couldn’t. But George’s store was in Diagon Alley, so maybe she could see him today. Susan nodded and left closing the door as she did so. Abigail smiled and punched the air in a triumphant gesture. She would get to see George again today.

A few hours later the two girls, both dressed in wizards robes, stepped into the Leaky Cauldron. They smiled at various witches and wizards and made their way out back. Susan tapped the wall with her wand and a moment later it formed the familiar arch that granted them entrance into the Alley. Abigail had a fake wand tucked away in a pocket inside her robes. She never went to Diagon Alley without it, even though she knew she couldn’t use it, no one else knew that. The two girls walked down the street together, going into various shops and greeting more people. Abigail almost, gasped with excitement when she saw Weasley’s Wizard Wheezes. Why was she so excited? She had only met him the night before and yet he wouldn’t leave her thoughts. She had never been this excited about any boy in her life. She couldn’t understand what was going on with her. She stopped abruptly across the street from the store and Susan practically ran her over.

“What?” Susan asked looking up at Abigail from the sidewalk, she had tripped. “Why did you stop?” She asked heatedly.

“I want to go in here,” said Abigail as she walked across the street, not even offering to help Susan up. She was far too distracted.

“Oh,” said Susan as comprehension dawned on her. She stood and followed Abigail across the street. Abigail tentatively pushed the door open and stepped inside. It wasn’t very busy, like most of the other shops. It was the second week of October, so it was too soon for the Christmas rush and just after the new school term started. She imagined more people might be there getting ready for Halloween, but witches and wizards, like muggles, usually waited until the last minute to do their shopping. She looked at the counter and one of the twins looked up at her. He smiled and she knew it was Fred. She could just tell by the look on his face. She smiled back and looked around for George. He came out of what Abigail assumed was the store room and their eyes met. He looked right shocked to see her. He dropped the box that was in his arms, but didn’t seem to notice. It made a very dull noise as it hit so Abigail assumed nothing broke.

“Oi!” said Fred loudly, “What are you doing you clumsy oaf?” George walked around the box and straight toward her.

“Helping a customer,” he mumbled. Abigail couldn’t help but grin.

“What are you doing here?” He whispered to her once he was close.

“Susan and I were in Diagon Alley and we thought we would stop by and see the store. Is that a problem?” She smiled innocently at him.

“No,” he smiled back, “Not a problem, I just wasn’t expecting to see you today.”

“Oh,” she looked down at her trainers and felt her cheeks flush. It was apparent he didn’t feel what she felt. She was such a fool sometimes.

“Not that I didn’t want to see you. I just wasn’t expecting it.” Her spirits soared. She looked up at him. His eyes were bright and happy. He looked around the store for a second then pulled her away down an isle full of different types of fireworks, away from the other customers. “I was going to send you an owl tomorrow to see if maybe you wanted to have lunch sometime this week, but here you are,” he stopped talking. Abigail looked at him expectantly. Had he finished his thought?

“So do you?” He asked after a second.

“Do I what?”

“Do you want to have lunch sometime this week?”

“Oh,” she paused thoughtfully, “you’re going to have to give me a date and time.”

“Whenever, you’re free. I’m here during the week and can take my lunch break whenever I want.”

“Alright, would you want to stay here in the Alley and eat or go in town?”

“You mean London?” he gulped. It was apparent by the look on his face, eating at a restaurant in London was the last thing he had in mind.

“Yes,” she said simply.

“Here sounds better,” he nodded, “I’m not the best with muggle money or anything. I hate being looked at like I’m a nutter,” he smiled, “not that witches and wizards don’t look at me like that occasionally.”

“I’m not familiar with any of the places to eat around here-”

“I can pick the place.”

“Alright then,” she said, “I’ll look at my schedule and send you an owl.”

“Tomorrow?” There was a hint of excitement in his voice.

“Sure,”

“Good.” He smiled and she saw relief in his eyes.

“Where do I address the owl to?”

“Here, if it’s during the day.”

“Ok, I can do that.”

“Almost ready?” Susan asked from behind her, and Abigail knew she had been listening to them.

“Hello Susan,” said George happily, “where either of you interested in buying anything today?” There was a hopeful gleam in his eye.

“No thank you,” said Susan, “we should go.”

“Did you want to get something Abby?” He asked. Abigail shook her head in response. She wasn’t really a practical joker.

Moments later the two girls were back on Diagon Alley walking around and window shopping. There was nothing Abigail needed and Susan had gotten her parchment and quills and a book from Flourish and Blots. At the end of the Alley they turned around and headed back to the back of the Leaky Cauldron.

When they returned to the flat Abigail collapsed on her bed smiling up at the ceiling but not really seeing it. What was going on with her? Never in her life had she ever been hung up on a boy, never. This was absurd, but despite herself she could not contain the smile on her lips, or how light her heart felt. There was definitely something about George.

‘Love at first sight’ was not something that Abigail ever believed in. She always imagined herself getting to know a boy and eventually growing to love him. But how she felt when she saw George the night before was how she imagined love felt and that could not be good. Looking into his eyes made her feel like she had known him her entire life, but she knew she had never met him before. She barely knew the boy at all, and if they ever dated and then broke up they couldn’t ‘stay friends’ because they were never friends to begin with. This was entirely too complicated to think about, and she had a paper to finish. She stood from her bed and went to her computer.

Abigail was yet again, staring at her computer writing her paper. This time however, it was the phone that distracted her. She had added about a hundred more words to the paper and was in deep thought when the third ring registered in her brain. She picked up and black phone from the receiver on her desk.

“Hello?” She sounded angrier then she meant to.

“Abby?” Abigail recognized the female voice on the other end but couldn’t think of whom it belonged to.

“Yes.”

“Hey, it’s Olivia from your Culture and Society in Early Renaissance Italy class.”

“Oh,” Abigail remembered her, “Hi. How are you?”

“I’m alright, you?”

“Good.”

“Well, the reason I rang is a few of us are getting together at my house tonight to work on that paper due Monday and I wanted to see if maybe you wanted to join us. Unless of course, you’ve finished yours.”

“No, I was working on it when you called actually.”

“Oi! Did I interrupt you?”

“Yes, but I’m glad.” Olivia chuckled.

“Does that mean you want to come then?”

“I actually had some plans for tonight-”

“Oh,” she sounded disappointed.

“But I’ll ring them and cancel. Working on this paper is more important.” Olivia gave Abigail directions to her house and told her to get there between 7:30 and 8 then rang off. Abigail stared at the phone for a moment. Would her friends really care if she canceled to work on this paper? Most of them went to Oxford with her; they knew how hard it was. She drummed her fingernails on the desk lightly as she thought. Then she picked up the phone decidedly and dialed Sarah’s number. She was her best friend, she shouldn’t care too much.

Please leave me feedback (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?p=1451727#post1451727) :tu:

Chapter Two: Diagon Alley (Part II)

“Hello?” said a cheerful voice after a few rings.

“Hi Nicole,” said Abigail, “Is Sarah there?”

“Yeah, hold on,” Abigail heard Nicole put the phone down then holler, “Sarah, Abby wants you mate!” There was movement.

“Hiya Abby,” said Sarah happily a second later, “were you wondering what to wear tonight because-

“I can’t make it tonight,” Abigail interrupted. There was no use putting off telling her.

“What?” Her tone changed from happy to angry in a snap, “Why not?”

“I told you about the paper I have to write.”

“I thought you were going to write it last night so you could come with us tonight. You never go out Abby, you’re always studying. The rest of us have made a happy medium of things and it is Saturday night, I can’t let you stay at home.”

“I won’t be staying here.”

“What?” Yes, there was definite anger in her tone now.

“Some of us from my class are going to work on our papers together.”

“Oh,” there was a pregnant pause, “but you still didn’t tell me why you didn’t write it last night like you told me you would.”

“Well, I – er - I sort of went out last night,” she said this softly and quickly, as though she didn’t really want Sarah to hear her.

“What do you mean? Who did you go with?”

“Susan,” there was striking silence on he other end.

“You went out with Susan?” Her voice sounded strained a moment later, as though she was trying very hard to keep it even. Abigail knew her best friend well enough to know, she did not like her going out with Susan.

“You heard what I said,” Abigail forced out in an even tone. Sarah knew she hated to repeat herself.

“Why didn’t you tell me you were going out with Susan?”

“It was sort of a last minute thing Sarah. I didn’t know until she got home from work.”

“You still could have ringed me.”

“I’m sorry,” she tried to hide the sarcasm in her tone, “I wasn’t aware I had to notify you every time I do something without you.” There was another tense moment of silence

“I can’t believe you’re ditching me for homework again.”

“It’s not like that Sarah and you know it. I would love to go out with everyone tonight, but this paper is due Monday and I need to write it.”

“Fine go,” she said huffily.

“Don’t be angry with me,” Abigail snapped.

“I don’t see how I can’t be,” she bit back, “You always do this to me!”

“I don’t always do anything to you!” Abigail’s own temper was rising again, “I have a paper to write, that’s not my fault. If you had a paper I would understand.”

“Well, you could have written it last night like we agreed.”

“Maybe I didn’t want to stay home last night like you decided I should!” Abigail allowed her anger to take control of her. She was tired of everyone, especially Sarah telling her what to do.

“So you would rather go out with Susan, whom you live with and is two years younger than you, than with your friends? I didn’t decide you should stay home last night. We talked about it and you said it was a good idea.”

“Only because I didn’t want to argue with you anymore!”

“What is that supposed to mean?”

“It means I’m tired of adapting my life to fit your schedule. If I want to go out with Susan I will and I shouldn’t have to worry about what you would think! I am so sick of doing everything you want! I have my own life and my own brain and can make my own decisions!”

“If you’re so tired of it then go ahead and go to your bloody study session! I don’t want to be around you when you’re like this!”

“Like what?”

“Like you are being right now, just ring me when Abigail re-inhabits your body!”

“Fine I will go! But I’m not bloody ringing you ay time soon and can be sure of that!” Abigail screeched and she threw the phone back on the receiver. She abruptly cupped her face in her hands and screamed from frustration. She heard hurried footsteps across the apartment.

“Abby are you alright?” asked Susan through the closed door.

“I’m fine,” she replied. Who did Sarah think she was getting angry with Abigail for writing a paper? She had no right to get upset. So what if she missed one Saturday night out? There would be others.

“I heard screaming. Are you sure you’re all right?”

“Yes, I’m fine!” Abigail saved what she was writing, pushed away from her
computer and flopped down on her stomach on her bed.

“All right,” said Susan, “I’m going to Hannah’s in a bit for a few hours. Some of us are going to play games and things. Do you want to come with me?”

“No, I’m going to finish my paper.”

“Ok.” Abigail heard footsteps and she knew Susan was going back to her room. She knew that since she had gone with Susan to the party and then this morning to Diagon Alley she wouldn’t pressure her into going with her again. She had written as much of her paper as she was going to write now that she was angry. So, she reached over and set her alarm for enough time to take a fast shower, dress and get over to Olivia’s house on time. Then she allowed herself to relax and with some deep breathing exercises she let the anger flow out of her until she drifted off to sleep.


Around 8 o’clock Abigail rang the doorbell of a very large house that was situated about 30 minutes outside of London. She smiled when a familiar face opened the door.

“Hi,” she said awkwardly.

“I was hoping you would come,” he replied.

“Why didn’t you invite me?”

“I wasn’t sure if you wanted me to after…” his voice trailed off.

"Jonathon,” she sighed and pushed him out of the doorway to step inside. “We fight practically every day,” she continued, all the awkwardness left her.

“Take off your trainers,” he said, “this is Olivia’s parent’s house and they seem a little antsy about dirt.”

“Alright,” said Abigail as she pulled off her trainers and placed them with everyone else’s in a row by the door.

“So, you’re not upset anymore?”

“I wasn’t really upset in the first place.”

“No?”

“No, I was just hurt you waited so long to tell me.”

“Well, talking about new girlfriends to ex-girlfriends is a little awkward.”

“Not with me, you’re my best friend and it hurts that you didn’t come to me.”

“Your best friend now huh?” he smirked, “what happened to Sarah?”

“I don’t want to talk about it,” she rolled her eyes.

“I was only joking Abby, I didn’t know anything had really happened.”

“Jonathon,” called Olivia from the living room, “are you coming back?”

“Yes.” He smiled and they both went into the living room where five other people were seated. Helen and Paul she knew, the other three she had seen in class.

“Abigail,” said Olivia, “this is Daniel, Allison, Helen, Paul, and Janet.” Olivia pointed to all of them in as she said their name. “This is Abigail.” They all smiled kindly at her.

“I know Paul and Helen,” said Abigail, “I’m sorry I’m late. The drive took a bit longer then I thought it would.”

“Don’t you live in downtown London?” Janet asked. Abigail nodded.

“Well, that’s alright,” said Olivia, “why don’t you come and sit down?” Daniel was seated in a comfortable looking arm chair next to the couch. There was a space then Allison, Helen, and Paul were seated on the couch together. Janet was in a comfortable looking arm chair that matched the other and Olivia sat on a smaller couch with a space next to her. Abigail walked over and sat next to Olivia, taking her bag off and setting it on the floor at her feet. She bent over and took out what she had of her paper that she had printed out. She looked over to see Jonathon sit next to Allison and put his arm around her. So this was the Allison he had told her about.

It was almost midnight before they decided they were through. They had taken each others papers and read them and made suggestions and comments. None of them had finished their papers and it seemed Abigail was the furthest along, however Paul’s paper was written the best. Jonathon, Allison and Abigail were the last to leave.

“Come on Jonathon,” said Allison, “I need to get some sleep for church in the morning.”

“Actually,” he replied looking at Abigail, “would you mind terribly if Abby took
me home?” He looked back to face Allison. Abigail could tell she was thinking.

“I suppose not,” She shrugged, “You do live on her way back from here.”

“Thanks,” he replied and the three of them walked outside, thanking Olivia for allowing them to study there. Jonathon walked Allison to her car. Abigail watched as they kissed good night and then he rejoined her on the front porch of Olivia’s house. She sat down on the top step and looked up at Jonathon, telling him with her eyes to do the same. She was ready to talk to him and she didn’t really want to do it in her car while driving. He obliged.

“We really shouldn’t sit here too long. I am meeting Allison in the morning for church and I don’t know if Olivia’s parents have some sort of alarm or not.”

“Church?” she raised an eyebrow at him. He shrugged.

“She likes going,” he replied, “I don’t see any harm in going with her.” Abigail smiled. Church was one thing she never really understood about some muggles.


“I haven’t talked to you for a while and so I thought we could catch up,” she said filling the silent moment.

“It’s your own fault we haven’t talked in a while-”

“I know will you just talk to me?” He nodded quietly. “So, that’s obviously Allison.”

“Yes.”

“She seems nice and her paper was written very well.”

“I agree,” he smiled.

“I still wish you had told me.” He took a long, deep breath.

“I told you why I didn’t tell you before, I-”

“I know,” she interrupted, “now you know not to keep me in the dark.” He nodded again and gave her a faint smile.

“So what are you and Sarah having a row about this time?” He asked in a mocking tone. She looked around to see if anyone was around. The street was vacant.

“I went out with Susan last night instead of working on this paper and she was mad when I canceled on her for tonight.”

“You went out with your cousin Susan?” He asked in a low whisper. She nodded this time. “Out with …” His voice trailed off, but she understood and nodded again. “I thought you were going to stay away from that crowd ever since-” he stopped abruptly at the look on Abigail’s face.

“Don’t,” she said sternly, “I don’t want to talk about that.” Jonathon nodded solemnly. “Besides,” she continued, “considering I live with Susan, that’s a little bit harder for me than you,”

“I don’t understand that at all,” he muttered, she glared at him, “you seem to fit in with muggles, better than I do,” she continued ignoring his comment. She was family. Abigail couldn’t just throw Susan out and it wasn’t even her fault.

“Maybe, if you tried harder-”

“I don’t want to try harder Jonathon Turpin,” she spat, then closed her eyes and took a deep breath, “I don’t want to argue with you,” she said more calmly with her eyes still closed, “I’ve already fought with Sarah. I don’t want to fight with you too.”

“Alright,” he replied, “I just don’t understand your logic. Did anyone notice?”

“No,” she replied softly, “but I did meet someone.”

“Witch or wizard?”

“Wizard,” she said and she couldn’t help but smile as she thought about him. Jonathon stood up quickly and Abigail looked up at him.

“I don’t understand you at all anymore,” he whispered harshly. “Don’t you remember what it felt like to be shunned Abby? How alone and angry you felt? Can’t you remember when your parents kicked you out just so they didn’t have to lie to their friends to hide what you were?”

“That was your life, not mine,” she said quietly.

“It was your life too,” he shot at her, “They don’t like us Abby and we can’t fit in their world. What do you think he’ll say when you tell him the truth?” Abigail stood up next to Jonathon. It had been harder on him then on her growing up. He had a younger sister whom received all sorts of glory and praise from his parents where they acted as though he barely existed.

“I already told him,” she replied and he looked sharply at her, “and he didn’t care.”

“He didn’t care then, but he’ll care later.”

“Jonathon, I don’t want to fight with you,” her words were firm, “I wanted
someone to confide in not argue with.” He turned away from her.

“I just don’t understand why you can’t be happy with muggles. We both said we hated wizards and here you are first living with one and now dating one for the second time.”

“No one said we were dating. I simply said I met a nice wizard.” He rolled his eyes and pulled his arms across his chest huffily.

“I don’t want you to get hurt like before by a wizard you think is good.”

“George is genuine,” she said, “that’s why I told him the truth from the beginning.”

“Well that’s a first.”

“Don’t go there,” she warned. They stared at one another for a moment.

“Did any one else know about you?” His voice softened slightly.

“No, only George and Susan knew,” she admitted quietly, “but the others were nice all the same.”

“They’re always nice until they find out. Then they’re just like every other wizard.”

“That seems a little unfair.”

“I don’t want to talk about this any longer. Can you take me home now?” He walked off the porch and toward her familiar car. She followed and ten silent minutes later they were at his block of flats. He went to open the car door, but Abigail put her hand on his arm. He turned to look at her.

“I don’t want you to be angry with me for going-”

“I’m not,” he interrupted.

“-because I don’t regret it. We’ve only just met but he’s nice,” she continued.

“I just don’t understand you sometimes.”

“Well, I can’t explain it.”

“I’ll have to live with that then,”

“So you’re not mad?” He sighed.

“No, but I want to meet him.” I want to see if he’s really as great as you think he is, considering you just met him.” She nodded and let go of his arm. He got out and she watched as he went up the stairs to his flat.


Abby woke earlier then usual the following morning. She went into Susan’s room to find her bed vacant. That meant she stayed at Hannah’s house all night. She walked back to her room and dug her planner out of her school bag. After looking at for a few minutes, she sighed and went back into Susan’s room. She took out a sheet of parchment and a quill and began to write.

Dear George,
I had a wonderful time talking with you Friday night at your party and then again yesterday in your shop. Thank you for the offer for lunch, but I am afraid I have to decline. Between school and work, I have a lot to do and I wish I had time for lunch, but I honestly do not. However, I would like to see you again so next weekend if you are free maybe we can do something. Please let me know.
Abby

She smiled to herself as she re-read the note. She truly did want to have lunch with George, but she had a lot of homework and studying to do. She could wait until next weekend to see him again. She folded the parchment and wrote George Weasley, Weasley’s Wizard Wheezes, on the outside. She walked carefully over to Parmenides’ cage while avoiding stepping on any of the many items on the floor. He looked up at her and then at the note in her hand.

“Are you up for a delivery?” She asked and he hooted a reply. Abigail tied the note to the owl’s leg, using string from Susan’s desk, then he flew to her outstretched arm and she carried him to the window. “You don’t have to wait for a reply. I think he has his own owl, but make sure first,” she said as she opened the window. Once the owl was out of sight she left the window open and walked carefully from the room. She had to finish her paper before Monday and in the quiet of the morning, seemed to be the best time.

As always feedback (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?p=1451727#post1451727) is very much appreciated. :tu:

Chapter Three: Owl Posts

It was the following afternoon when Abigail heard back from George. She returned from her classes to find a large, brown, barn owl, sitting on her desk, next to her open window. She wasn’t remotely shocked to see the owl. She attributed this to growing up in the wizarding world. She walked over and untied the note addressed to her. The owl looked a little thirsty, so Abigail went into the kitchen and got it a bowl of water and some bread. Then she returned and read.

Dear Abby,
I am sorry to hear that you can’t have lunch with me this week. Muggle school must be more difficult then I thought. I’d love to hear all about it. Seeing you this weekend sounds like fun. Friday night is good for me, if it works for you. You can decide what time if you want, it doesn’t matter.
George

Abigail smiled to herself then looked at the owl on her desk. Apparently George wanted a reply. She glanced at her watch, it was only two and she didn’t have to be at work until four. She went into Susan’s room, whom was still at work, and pulled out a piece of parchment and a quill and a bottle of ink and returned to her room. She grabbed her planner and looked at Friday. This was one of her favorite muggle innovations. She had a terrible memory and writing everything down in what was called ‘a day planner’ practically saved her life. She didn’t know what she would do without one.
Friday night seemed like a good night to go out. She had an exam in her Historiography and Methodologies of Art History class on Thursday, she hated all the long names they used. So, she wouldn’t need to stay home and really study during the weekend. She put the planner aside, dipped the quill into the ink and wrote on the parchment.

Dear George,
Friday night sounds like a good night to go out and have fun. I don’t have anything going on that I know of. How does 8 o’clock sound? Also, what exactly would we be doing and whom with? So that I know what to wear, and where should I meet you? Muggle school is a lot more difficult then most wizards believe, especially since we don’t take the same classes you do (for obvious reasons). Plus I am at a University, which is optional additional schooling. It is a little hard to explain, but if you like we can talk about it. Please let me know as soon as you can.
Abby

She reread the note, folded it and addressed it just like before. Then she went to back Susan’s room and got some string, and after returning, tied the note to the owl’s leg. He took off immediately and Abigail stood and watched until he was out of sight. Then she hurriedly jumped into the shower, dried her hair, changed, and left for work.

At 4 o’clock she walked into the back entrance of the small art gallery which led into the storeroom. She clocked in mechanically using a time card. She was usually early for work.

“There you are Miss Bones, I was beginning to worry,” said a tall, thin woman, with graying hair. Her name was Deborah and she was Abigail’s boss.

“I’m not late am I?” asked Abigail looking at her watch.

“No darling,” she chuckled, “I don’t believe you’ve been late once since you started here.” Deborah seemed proud, “You’re just not as early as usual,” she smiled kindly.

“Yes, sorry about that, class got out later then I expected it to,” she lied.

“You don’t need to explain,” replied Deborah, “just get to work please.” Abigail nodded and walked out into the actual shop. It was her job today to straighten things and offer assistance to any prospective customer. Some nights she was to answer the phone, should it ring, and work the till. People usually tended to browse however, and only buy the small items that they didn’t need help with. Rarely did any of the big paintings get sold. If Abigail had the money, she would have bought some of the amazing paintings she saw. Being an Art History major at Oxford, she knew quite a lot about art.

It was nearly 10 o’clock when Abigail returned to her flat. Walking up the stairs, she could hear muffled voices, and the closer she got to her flat, the more she understood. Susan had her friends over. When Abigail opened the front door, her suspicions were proven correct.

“Hey Abby,” said Susan from the couch.

“Hi,” replied Abigail, as she stepped inside, closing the door behind her and locking it. She looked around at the five witches and wizard in her living room. Mandy and Terry were playing a game of wizard chess on the kitchen counter. Hannah and Ernie were seated on the couch next to Susan. Abigail smiled kindly to all of them, then crossed the room and went into her bedroom without saying anything. She changed silently and climbed into her own bed. She imagined that one of them put a silencing charm on the room because she didn’t hear a word from them as she drifted off to sleep. It was a fitful sleep however, with more dreams about Justin and that awful night.


After classes the next afternoon Abigail was very surprised to see a different owl perched on desk. She knew it had to be from George but didn’t think he would write her back so soon. She went and got this owl water and some bread. She knew the owl hadn’t traveled very far, she didn’t live that far from Diagon Alley, but he looked tired anyway, so she gave him the bread and water. She took the letter from him addressed to her and read.

Dear Abby,
This is my bother Fred’s owl Diogenes. Heraclitus, my owl, is busy at the moment so I thought you wouldn’t mind Diogenes too much. Friday night at 8 sounds excellent. You can meet me at my house if you would like. Let me know if you need directions. I’m not sure what we’ll be doing. I reckon once everyone gets to the house we can decide. You can wear whatever you’re comfortable in. Write back soon.
George

Abigail frowned as she read the fourth line. The word ‘everyone’ stuck out. Of course his other friends would be coming too. Why hadn’t she thought of that? She smacked herself on the forehead. Did that mean she should invite Susan? How many other people were going to come? She quickly walked to Susan’s room and got a few sheets of piece of parchment, a quill, a bottle of ink, and some thread and returned to her room. Maybe it would be a good idea to go to Diagon Alley and buy these things. She never really used them much because her muggle friends would think it was weird and she rarely wrote to witches or wizards. She sat down at her desk.

Dear George,
Diogenes seems like a nice owl I don’t mind him at all. About Friday night, I can’t believe I didn’t think to ask this before, how many other witches and wizards are coming? Is this going to be like the party last week? Should I invite Susan or will it be older witches and wizards that she doesn’t know? Let me know.
Abby

She liked to finish her letter in ‘let me know’ it was a more mutual friendly way of saying, ‘write back soon’. She wasn’t sure if they were getting to know each other well enough to write, ‘write back soon’ even if George thought they were. She folded the letter, addressed it, tied it to the owl’s leg and watched him take off. Then she showered and went to work, this time bringing her bag so she could study. She was allowed to sit behind the counter this evening and strictly answer phone and work the register. Elizabeth was to walk around and straighten things and help the customers.

Around 10 o’clock she returned to her flat to find it quiet. She dropped her things on her bed and knocked on Susan’s closed door.

“Come in,” she heard faintly and opened the door. “How was work?” Susan asked, looking up at Abigail from the mirror in front of her. She was putting on makeup.

“It was alright, you?”

“Same as always, it’s never very eventful.”

“Yeah,” Abigail said as she sat down at the foot of Susan’s bed. She didn’t know why, but she was suddenly filled with sadness. She didn’t know if she could force herself to smile at the moment.

“Jonathon rang earlier; I told him you would ring back.”

“Thanks,” Abigail sighed.

“What’s wrong?” asked Susan crossing the room and sitting next to Abigail on her bed.

“I don’t know,” said Abigail softly, “I’m just really tired …” she trailed off.

“Did we keep you awake last night? Ernie put a silencing charm on the living room but he took it off before they left.”

“No, you didn’t keep me awake …” Abigail said quietly to the floor. She didn’t want to mention her nightmare about Justin. She felt her eyes start to burn and that meant tears were coming. She didn’t want to cry. “Sarah hasn’t called me,” she said without meaning to. She hadn’t even been thinking about Sarah.

“Is that why you’re so upset?” Abigail shrugged that was part of it, “Well it’s only been a few days Abby. Sarah will come around.”

“I’m not so sure,” said Abigail, “I’ve never heard her so upset before and the awful things I said to her,” she closed her eyes and cupped her face in her hands.

“She’s your best friend. I’m sure she’ll forgive you.” Abigail looked up at the reassuring smile Susan was giving her.

“Thanks,” she replied, “I should go call Jonathon.” She stood and left the room, feeling considerably better. However, once in her room, the extra sheets of parchment on her desk caught her eye. She had forgotten to return the quill and ink to Susan’s room before she left for work. She walked over and sat as the desk thinking. Was it too late to write to George? She picked up the quill and dipped it into the ink and wrote.

Dear George,
I know it’s late and I wrote you earlier today but I just wanted to write to you. I had a rather difficult day at school and work today. I didn’t score as high as I wanted to on a test in a class and am a little disappointed in myself. So I spent most of my time at work studying and was rather rude to a girl I work with. I didn’t apologize, but I probably should. Plus my best friend will not speak to me. We had a row on Saturday and she hasn’t said a word to me since. I feel just awful and I don’t know what to do. I would apologize because I said some harsh things, but they were true and I am not sorry I said them. On top of it all, I’ve been having strange dreams. They’re not a big deal, I’ve been having them for years but they’ve haven’t been this frequent in a while. Something occurred to me at work earlier. If your witch and wizard friends will be at your house on Friday night, would you mind terribly if a friend of mine came? He’s a squib, not a wizard or a muggle and is one of my best friends. When I told him I met you, he said he wanted to meet you. It’s not very often that we meet decent wizards so I wasn’t too surprised that he doubted that you actually wanted to talk to me. I’m not even sure if he would want to come. He’s more like the squib you know, kind of angry and bitter toward wizards, not without reason, but he’s a great friend. I haven’t asked if he would like to come because I wanted to know if you would mind first. Let me know.
Abby

She folded the letter and addressed it simply to George Weasley, since she didn’t know the address where he lived and was sure he wasn’t still at the shop. Then a thought occurred to her. How was she going to send it? If she asked Susan, she would have to tell her who she was writing to and where she got the quill, parchment, and the ink from. Answering to her own question Susan knocked on her door. Abigail stuffed the letter into her pocket and then crossed the room and opened the door.

“Yes?” she asked.

“I’m going out tonight with some friends,” Abigail tried to make her expression as neutral as possible, but inside she was screaming. This was perfect. She could use Parmenides and Susan would never have to know.

“Alright,” Abigail replied calmly.

“I’m not sure what time I’ll be back. You don’t mind do you?”

“No, go and have a good time.” Susan smiled.

“Alright, I will.” She turned and dissapparated right in front of Abigail with a loud pop. Abigail smiled and ran to Susan’s bedroom. She left the door open to let light from the hall spill into the dark room. Susan used candles for light and it was hard to light them with matches. She walked across the room carefully and tied the letter to Parmenides leg and carried him over to the window. After he took off, Abigail smiled to herself and went back to her room.


The next morning Abigail half-expected to open her eyes and see an owl sitting on her desk, but there was not one. That afternoon, however after her classes there was and she nearly shrieked with joy. She took a few deep breaths to clam her nerves and walked over to the owl she now recognized as Heraclitus. Why did getting a simple letter from this wizard excite her so much? She gently untied the letter from his leg and read it through twice.

Dear Abby,
I was very happy and shocked to receive your letter last night. I wasn’t even sure it was for me at first because I had already gotten one letter from you, but then I saw my name on the outside. I had to threaten Fred and Lee to leave me alone while I read it. I’m sorry to hear about your bad day yesterday but I think everyone is entitled to be a bit rude every now and again. Some of us take advantage of this more then others, like me. I’m sure you didn’t really mean it. I don’t know what to tell you about your dreams or your friend since I really don’t know anything about either the situation. Plus, I’m not the best at giving advice, according to everyone I know. However, if she’s your best friend it’ll probably work out. Unless you don’t want it to, but that’s not the impression I got from your last letter.
About Friday night, I’m not certain how many witches and wizards will be here. I know for certain that Fred, Lee, and Angelina will be here. I don’t know if I really want my brother Ron and his friends to come. He’s the same age as Susan. If you want her to come you can invite her and then I’ll tell Ron to go ahead and come and bring his friends so she won’t feel like the only young one. Your unnamed friend can come too if you want. Meeting another squib would be brill! I really would like to know how you two met. Sounds like it could be an interesting story. Do you go to squib designed clubs? Do places like that exist? Write Back Soon.
George

Feedback (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?p=1521615#post1521615) is, as always, very much appreciated!! Please let me know what you think! :tu:

Chapter Three: Owl Posts (Pat II)

Abigail had to chuckle at the last two questions. Wizards really were quite clueless about certain things. She folded the letter again and picked up the phone. Jonathon wasn’t in classes any more.

“Hello?” She heard his familiar, masculine voice on the other end.

“Hi Jonathon,” chirped Abigail.

“Oi! I rang you yesterday and you were supposed to ring back.”

“What do you think I’m doing now?”

“I expected it last night.”

“You know both the number to the gallery and my mobile number.”

“Yeah, yeah,” he chuckled, “so what do you want?”

“You know how you said you wanted to meet George?”

“Who?”

“George, the wizard I met at the party last week,” said dully.

“Yeah right wizard,” he mumbled quietly, “what about him?”

“How would you like to meet him?”

“What? Do you mean now?”

“No not now, Friday night.”

“This Friday night?”

“Yes.”

“Just him and you and me then?” She grimaced.

“Well no, he invited us out with his friends,” there was silence for a moment on the other end.

“No,” he said simply then added, “I think Allison and I have plans anyhow.”

“No you don’t and you know it,” she accused.

“No Abby, I’m not going to spend a Friday night with a group of people whom I have noting in common with and who hate me.”

“They don’t hate you. You’ve never even met them.”

“They’re witches and wizards right?”

“Of course,” she grumbled.

“Then, they’ll know I’m a squib and they’ll hate me.”

“You have a very biased opinion of them. Not all wizards are the same you
know.”

“Right, you just go on and think like that and one day they’ll disappoint you.”

“They’ll know I’m a squib and I’m pretty confident they won’t hate me.”

“How do you know that?”

“You know what, forget I even asked. Never mind, you can meet him
sometime when it’s just me and you and him.”

“Right, you tell me when that is.”

“I will,” there was a tense moment of silence between them. She was really hoping that Jonathon would want to come. She knew it was a long shot, but at least she tried.

“I have to study,” they both said at the same time and then they both laughed.

“Well, I’ll let you study then,” said Abigail.

“Same here,”

“Tell me if you change your mind before Friday night.”

“I’ll be sure to do that,” he said and she heard a well-known click. She folded her arms across her chest and stared at the phone glumly. After a moment she sighed and walked to her desk. Heraclitus was still standing there hooting softly. She knew he was growing impatient so she sat down and used one of the extra sheets of parchment, the quill and ink that she forgot to give back to Susan and wrote to George.

Dear George,
I’m sorry that I shocked you with my letter last night, I didn’t mean to. I was simply upset and devoid of sleep and decided to write to you, since I can’t apparate and you don’t use the telephone. Thank you for the encouraging words, I do appreciate them. I’ll have to remind myself not to ask for your advice in the future. I have spoken with my unnamed friend, who has a name and it is Jonathon, and he cannot come on Friday night. He has a date with his muggle girlfriend Allison. It is actually a rather interesting story as to how we met and I would love to tell it to you sometime. No, there are no squib-designed clubs that I know of. I know there are some for wizards and werewolves. I wonder if there are any for vampires. I’ve never thought about it. I do go to muggle clubs here in London though. It is great fun if you like their music and dancing like I do. As for Susan’s coming, it’s entirely up to you. It didn’t really sound like, in your last letter, that you wanted your younger brother coming. I am an only child, as you know, but I can imagine how annoying a younger sibling can be. If you don’t want them to come, you don’t have to invite them. I’m sure Susan already has plans by now either way. I might stop by Diagon Alley tomorrow to get some parchment, quills, and ink. I’m sure Susan is getting tired of me nicking all of hers. Well, let me know when you decide what you want.
Abby

She tied the parchment to Heraclitus’ leg and he flew away. She really did not feel like going to work tonight. At least on Wednesday and Thursday she didn’t have to be there until 5 so she had an extra hour. The sun was out and it was cool out. She picked up her school bag and skipped happily outside. The block of flats she lived in had a small park just down the street. So she skipped over to it, and sat down on a bench in the sun. She did some of her homework there, but mainly enjoyed the sunshine because she knew soon it would be too cold to do this. Around 3:30 she went back inside and took a shower and left for work.

The night was just as uneventful as every other night at the gallery. If Abigail didn’t love art so much, she would quit. But it paid well and she got the experience she would need for after she graduated. It was after 10 o’clock this time when Abigail returned home to a quite flat. The only noise was Susan’s music. Abigail was never a fan of wizarding music, muggle music was more her style. Despite the fact the she didn’t know if George really wanted Susan to come to his house on Friday night, she was going to ask her if she was busy. She went to her room and dropped off her books that she had taken with her to the gallery and then went to Susan’s door and knocked.

“Come in,” called Susan just as she had the night before. Abigail opened the door and slipped in. This time Susan was sitting on her bed with a book in her hands. “Hey Abby, what’s up?” Abigail smiled.

“I was wondering what your plans are for Friday night.”

“Why? What are you doing?”

“I asked you first,” they grinned at one another.

“I have a double date with this wizard Ernie knows.”

“That sounds like fun.”

“It should be,” said Susan, a smile spread across her face.

“It’s been a while since you’ve been out on a date…” Abigail let her voice trail
off. She wanted to talk about it so badly, especially with all the dreams she was having.

“I don’t want to talk about him,” Susan snapped clearly telling Abigail the matter was closed. She changed the subject, “so what are your plans?”

“George invited me to go to his house with some of his friends and I thought you might want to come. But since you’ve already got plans…” she smiled slightly.

“George invited you?” she asked, “I didn’t even know you talked to him since that day in Diagon Alley. I thought you would have let him down easily.”

“Let him down?” Abigail was confused, “why would I let him down?”

“Abby, you aren’t seriously considering dating another wizard after what happened-”

“I thought you didn’t want to talk about it,” Abigail interjected. Susan snapped her mouth shut and stared at Abigail.

“It’s not safe,” she muttered finally.

“I know that,” Abigail grumbled.

“I just assumed he hit on you and you didn’t want to be mean, so you went to see him on Saturday and told him you were a squib and that was the end of it.” Abigail frowned.

“You didn’t hear our conversation in Diagon Alley?”

“No, I don’t like to eaves drop.” Abigail narrowed her eyes in suspicion at her cousin.

“Right,” she said after a moment, “George and I have been writing to one another every day this week.”

“Every day?” Susan sat up straighter in her bed and Abigail sat down to face her.

“Yeah,”

“That’s a lot for you, considering you hate writing with …” she paused, “Oi! That’s where my parchment and ink has gone!” Abigail nodded.

“Don’t worry, I’m going to Diagon Alley tomorrow and I’ll buy you some more.” Abigail half-smiled at her cousin.

“What are you writing about?”

“Just about our plans for Friday night and what is going on with us” Susan gave her a small smile, “individually,” Abigail added as an afterthought.

“I can’t see you writing to a wizard Abby. You’ve only just met him.”

“That’s why we’re just writing.”

“But you’re seeing him on Friday.”

“I know. He’s just different from any other wizard I’ve met.”

“I’m sure you’ve heard about his family?” She asked more then said this.

“I remember mum telling me about them once.”

“I don’t really think they’re muggle-loving is a bad thing. They’re all very nice, well the ones I’ve met. Ron can be a bit rude at times but I gather that might be from being the youngest of the boys. He’s gotten better over the years though. Fred and George have always stood up for what was good.”

“He is very nice to me,”

“He’s handsome too, I do have to say. I just can’t picture you with him.”

“Why?”

“He’s a bit of a prankster. He and his brother like to play jokes. Fred is more outspoken then George, but it’s hardly noticeable. No one can tell them apart.”

“So, I’ve heard.”

“I’m not saying it’s a bad thing Abby. I just don’t want you to get hurt.”

“That’s what Jonathon said.”

“We care about you.”

“I know,” there was a silent moment between them. Abigail was lost in her thoughts. Maybe going to George’s by herself on Friday was a bad idea. She barely knew him. She had made the mistake of trusting a wizard with her heart once and it blew up in her face. Of course he hadn’t known she was a squib and George knew from the beginning.

“I actually like George,” Susan pulled Abigail from her thoughts.

“You do?”

“I don’t know him very well but he is a good person. If you fancy him and he fancies you back, why not go for it? If it doesn’t work out, there are others.” Abigail smiled gratefully at Susan. Sometimes she really appreciated Susan’s advice.

“I’ll let you get back to reading,” said Abigail as she stood and went back to
her room. She studied some more before eventually crawling into bed and drifting off to a rare, peaceful sleep.

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Chapter Four: Meeting His Friends

The next day Abigail had a smile on her face all day. Many people in her classes noticed. It wasn’t that she walked around frowning all of the time; she was just never openly helpful to anyone. She mainly kept to herself or the few friends she had. Most of who were upset with her just like Sarah for ditching them the previous weekend. She only had classes with a few of them so it was easy not to let them bother her. After her classes were over she returned to her flat and was only slightly disappointed not to see an owl on her desk. She pulled a robe over her muggle clothes, grabbed her wand and changed her money, then walked down the street to the Leaky Cauldron. Tom, the bar tender, happily let her into the Alley. He was always good about that. There were more people here this week then the weekend before and Abigail thought that was strange since it was a week day, but didn’t pay any attention. She went to Flourish and Blots first and bought some parchment, quills, and ink. Then she went down to George’s shop. There were considerably more people in here today and she saw both Fred and George were busy helping customers. So, she walked around and looked at all the different jokes. She was not a big practical joking person. She didn’t mind them; she just never played them on others.

“Can I help you miss?” asked a familiar voice from behind her after a minute. She turned around to see George’s smiling face. “I would have come over sooner, but we were a little busy.”

“Do you have a minute?” she asked looking around.

“Sure, I think Fred can handle it. Do you want to step outside?”

“Actually, do you have a storage room? It’s a little chilly outside and there are a lot of people.”

“Yeah, Diagon alley always gets pretty busy right before Halloween,” she nodded and followed George to the back of the store and into a rather large storage room. He said something to Fred on the way. There was a large, lit fireplace at the opposite end of the room and a fair amount of windows so the room was nicely lit. “I would have written you back,” said George after he closed the door, “but you said you might be coming so I thought I would wait to see if you came.”

“I felt guilty about using all of Susan’s parchment and ink so I bought some more.”

“Is that the only reason you came?” He had a mischievous look in his eyes.

“Not entirely, I wanted to talk to you too.”

“Well, I’m glad you’re here then,” he smiled.

“Susan can’t come tomorrow. She has plans.”

“Alright, then I won’t tell Ron to come. Ordinarily he’s not that bad,” said George leaning against a counter, “but if I invite him then he’ll invite Hermione and Harry and if they come then Ginny will want to come. I love my
family,” he paused, “most of the time,” he grinned, “but I don’t want to spend every weekend with them.” She nodded, that made sense. Then something in her brain clicked.

“When you say Harry,” she paused, “do you mean …?”

“Harry Potter?” she nodded, “yeah, he’s my brother’s best friend and my sister’s boyfriend.”

“So you know him personally then?” George looked at her suspiciously.

“Yes, we’re friends. Why?”

“I was just wondering. I’ve never met him and Susan’s told me he’s very nice.” George nodded again. “Well,” said Abigail trying to change the subject. She knew it looked like she was trying to get information from George about Harry but that wasn’t the case, “do you know who will be coming Friday?”

“Not for sure yet, obviously Fred and Lee, and Angelina will be there, like I’ve said.”

“I meant to ask you about that, who’s Angelina?”

“She’s Lee’s girlfriend. She went out with Fred for a little while, but that didn’t last. None of Fred’s relationships seem to last actually,” he chuckled and Abigail couldn’t help but smile, “but Lee’s always fancied her so now they’re together.”

“Fred doesn’t mind?”

“No.”

“Who else did you invite?”

“Fred wants to find someone to come with. Usually it’s the four of us, but with you coming he doesn’t want to feel like the fifth wheel. I told him we could invite Ron and them, but he wasn’t very happy about that,” again George chuckled.

“What’s so funny?” asked Abigail, “You always laugh after you talk about Fred.” He grinned.

“It’s just that he’s usually the one with a girlfriend, he’s a bit more – er - outgoing then I am and I’m the fifth wheel, but this time it’s him. I enjoy rubbing it in his face.” There was a mischievous look in his eyes. Abigail opened her mouth to reply but the door opened.

“Oi George!” Fred barked, “You said a few minutes and I’m swamped out here.” George nodded and followed Fred back into the shop, Abigail behind
him.

“I’ll let you get back to work,” she said loudly, “I’ll see you tomorrow.” George nodded and Abigail left the little shop and headed back home. She had taken longer then she intended, but she still had time to take a shower and get to work on time.

Friday passed by in a blur for Abigail. She was so excited about that night that she couldn’t focus on anything. She was glad she didn’t have any exams that day. Why did 8 o’clock have to be so late? Why had she suggested it? Was she mental? She stayed at school a little longer that afternoon to do some studying in the library. She knew if she went home she wouldn’t do anything except think about George and time would barely move. However, she didn’t get much done because her mind just kept wondering. After about an hour and thirty minutes, she gave up and happily went home. She took a two hour nap and then a long, hot, soak in the tub. After that she slowly got ready. She decided to wear muggle jeans and a dark green jumper and a wizard robe over it. Since the others were wizards, they were most likely going to be doing something in the wizarding world. She wore her long, straight, brown hair, half up in a barrette and put on her make up. Susan came home around 7, just as Abigail was finishing.

“Hey Abby!” she called as she entered the apartment.

“Hi Susan,” replied Abigail.

“How was your day?”

“Good,” they were talking loudly through the wall that divided their rooms. Abigail knew Susan hated staying in her work robes for any long then absolutely necessary.

“What time are you going over to George’s?”

“7:45 what time are you leaving?”

“I’m not sure. Do you need me to give you directions?”

“Sure.” Susan appeared a moment later in Abigail’s room and wrote out the directions on a piece of parchment from Abigail’s desk.

“You look nice,” said Susan handing her the parchment.

“Thank you.” Susan nodded.

“I need to go get in the shower and get ready. Ernie said he’d send me an
owl yesterday and let me know a time, but he must have forgotten.” Abigail smiled as Susan left the room. She turned her computer on and connected to the internet. This was another one of her favorite muggle innovations. Sometimes, wizards underestimated how smart muggles were. Actually it was most of the time that they did this. The internet was very useful, she decided once she started using it when she started school. She had to go either to her friend’s houses or to the library before she moved away from home. They didn’t use electricity in her house. It was something she had grown up without and so she didn’t need it. Someone was usually around to do magic for her if she needed it and her parents had a house elf. However, it was now something she knew she could never live without. She told her friends growing up that her parents were very old fashioned and didn’t like to try new things like computers.

Finally around 7:40, Abigail went out to her car and drove over to George’s house. She was nervous, so she sat in her car and tried to calm her nerves. Jonathon was wrong. George’s friends would still like her after they found out the truth. At 8 she got out and walked the few house down to George’s house. Fred answered the door. She knew it was him by the ‘F’ on his shirt.

“Hi Abby, it’s nice to see you again,” he said smiling.

“Hi Fred,” she replied.

“Well, come inside.” He opened the door wide and she stepped inside. The living room looked larger when it wasn’t packed full of people. There were two girls sitting on the floor playing Exploding Snap, neither of whom Abigail recognized.

“Abby!” exclaimed George as he came into the living room from the kitchen carrying two drinks in his hands.

“Hi George,” Abigail beamed. He walked over and handed the girls their drinks.

“Can I get you some butterbeer or pumpkin juice?”

“Pumpkin juice please,” she replied.

“Angelina, Katie,” said Fred ushering Abigail into the room, “This is Abby.” They turned and smiled up at her.

“Hi,” said Angelina and Katie together. Abigail smiled and sat on the couch behind Angelina and facing Katie. Fred sat on the left of Angelina on the floor. George returned and sat next to Abigail on the couch, handing her a glass of pumpkin juice.

“Thank you,” she said and took a sip.

“No problem,” he replied and smiled.

“Where’s Lee?” She asked looking around.

“He’s around,” George answered vaguely.

“Do you want to play Abby?” Katie asked happily.

“No, I haven’t played in a while.”

“Do you want to play something else?” George asked.

“No, I’ll just watch.” Abigail smiled sweetly at him. He smiled back, he looked a little nervous.

“How was your day?”

“It was alright,” she said.

“Just alright?” she nodded.

“Nothing very interesting happened,” she shrugged. Katie shrieked when the
cards they were holding suddenly exploded. “What are we doing tonight?” Abigail asked after the laughter died down.

“We thought we would just stay here,” he replied, “if that’s alright with you.”

“That sounds great,” she replied. She was hoping not to have to spend any money. Fred said something funny that caused the other two girls to laugh again. “Is this everyone that’s coming?” Abigail asked George.

“No, I invited my brother and his friends,” he growled and rolled his eyes, “He came into the shop and said that mum had asked him to come to dinner tonight. Stupid git that he is told her he was coming over here. So I had to tell him he could come. I don’t know why he can’t just say no to mum, but he can’t.” Abigail laughed quietly.

“When are they coming?”

“I don’t know,” he replied. The girls began laughing again and the door bell rang. “I guess now.” He said and stood and went to the door.

“Who’s that?” asked Fred getting up and following him. The girls all looked at each other.

“Are you sure you don’t want to play Abby?” Katie asked while looking at the reformed cards. Abigail thought for a moment, then slid off the couch and sat on Angelina’s right. Katie shuffled then passed out an equal amount of cards to the three of them.

“Hey Angelina, and Katie,” said a male voice from behind Abigail. She turned and saw a tall, red-headed boy with freckles looking down at her.

“Hey Ron,” said Katie. He crossed the room to them.

“I’m Abby,” said Abigail, standing up. She hated to be introduced to people while sitting down. They shook hands.

“I’m Ron, this is Hermione,” he said gesturing to the girl standing next to him.

“I met you last week,” said Abigail shaking Hermione’s hand.

“That’s right,” she said, “I knew you looked familiar. You’re Susan’s cousin.” Abigail smiled and nodded.

“I’m Ginny,” said a pretty red-headed girl. She walked around Hermione and shook Abigail’s hand.

“It’s nice to meet you,” said Abigail and then her eyes fell upon Harry Potter. His bright green eyes and lightening bolt scar jumped out at Abigail. She had only ever seen his picture in the Daily Prophet and various wizarding books.

“I’m Harry,” said Harry and Abigail faintly shook his hand.

“I know,” she mumbled. The others snickered quietly, “I’m Abby.”

“Now that everyone’s been introduced, can you move?” shouted Fred. The four new comers sat down on the couch and George sat in an arm chair. Fred sat to the left of Angelina and picked up Abigail’s cards assuming they were dealt for him.

“No Fred, you left, those are Abby’s.” Katie said with a smile. Fred looked disappointed.

“It’s ok, you can play,” said Abigail as she sat in the other arm chair at the opposite end of the couch from George, he was smiling at her.

“Are you sure? Because a minute ago you said you wanted to play,” asked Katie. Abigail nodded to her. She really wanted to talk to George some more. The three on the floor began to play while Abigail and everyone else began talking.

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Chapter Four: Meeting His Friends (Part II)

They talked about various things as the night went on. They talked about Hermione’s training to become a healer and Ron and Harry’s training to become Aurors and about business at the shop. Ginny and Abigail did the least amount of talking. Abigail wasn’t sure if she really wanted everyone in the room to know she was a squib. If they asked her what she did she would have to tell them, so she just didn’t say much. She assumed that Ginny wasn’t talking because she was so much younger then everyone else, but she wasn’t sure.

Lee came in from the kitchen and announced there was food. Abigail hadn’t smelt any food cooking, or heard any noise from the kitchen, but followed everyone else in just the same. She laughed with everyone else also when she saw the platter of sandwiches in the middle of the kitchen table. No wonder.

“What?” asked Lee, “Were you expecting gourmet food?” They all took some sandwiches and went back to the living room. This time, George pulled up a chair next to Abigail and got her more pumpkin juice. She smiled at his thoughtfulness.

“Where were you?” Abigail asked Lee quietly when he passed by her.

“What do you mean?”

“I mean, we’ve been here for well over two hours and this is the first time I’ve seen you.”

“Oh right,” he smiled sheepishly, “I was getting something ready for Angelina,” and that was all he said. He held a finger to his lips and winked. Then went over and sat next to Angelina on the floor.

“It’s their six month anniversary next week,” George whispered in Abigail’s ear making chills run down her spine. She wondered if he meant to do that.

About an hour later Ron announced that he had to leave. So, he and Hermione, Harry, and Ginny all left together after saying their goodbyes. Lee and Katie were playing wizard’s chess and Katie had just won when this happened.

“I guess we should go too,” said Angelina, “it’s getting late.” She stood from the couch and stretched a little. Lee walked her to the door and after snogging for a few minutes, Angelina dissapparated. Katie kissed Fred on the cheek and thanked him for the lovely evening and dissapparated as well.

“Do you want me to walk you to your car?” George asked Abigail quietly. She nodded.

“It’s was nice meeting you again,” said Abigail to Lee and Fred once they returned to the living room.

“I’ll be back in a minute,” said George and they stepped outside.

“How did you know I drove here?” Abigail asked once they were on the sidewalk.

“I was looking out of the window in the kitchen when you drove up,” he
admitted quietly and she blushed slightly.

“Then you saw me sitting there?” He nodded.

“I was wondering about that-”

“I didn’t want to be early,” her face turned redder, “I didn’t know you’d be looking for me.” It was his turn to blush this time and she just smiled. He reached over and tentatively took her hand in his. They walked along in comfortable silence until they reached her car.

“This is it,” she said taking her keys out of a pocket in her robe and trying to smile.

“Well, I had a nice time.”

“I did too.”

“Even though we just stayed here and didn’t really do anything?” He had a playful smile on his lips.

“Yes,” she said and bit her lower lip, “It was fun.”

“Can I see you again?” He asked after a moment.

“If you want to-”

“What are you doing tomorrow?” he interrupted.

“I don’t know,” she replied, “I don’t have any plans yet.”

“Do you want to do something with me?”

“With just you?”

“Yes,” he sounded unsure, “If you want.” She tucked her hair behind her ear nervously and thought for a moment.

“Like what?” She finally asked.

“I don’t know,” he smiled.

“How about I’ll come over here and we can decide what to do?”

“In the morning?” there was excitement in his voice and she couldn’t keep the smile from her lips.

“Sure.”

“9 o’clock?”

“Sounds good,” He grinned at her.

“I like spending time with you,” he said looking deep in her eyes.

“I noticed,” she teased.

“Well, you should probably go,” he said, “unless you want to stay.” He raised an eyebrow in a suggestive way. Abigail laughed and pushed him away from her.

“I’ll see you tomorrow,” she said as she unlocked her car and got in. He waved as she drove away.

This was insane. Was she really going to see him again in the morning? Was that even a good idea? Was he leading her on? He was a prankster after all, was this some kind of a joke? Or a bet? She mechanically parked her car once she got back to her block of flats and trudged up the stairs, in deep thought. She was trying to think of all the wizards and witches that knew she was a squib and how they treated her once they found out. None of them had ever been as accepting as George and she knew this was why she was suspicious. Most of the adults tried to mask their disdain for her. Not one of them seemed genuinely interested in her life. Most of the younger wizards completely cut her off as though she had a disease that they could catch. This hurt a lot when she thought about it. Susan was the only one who stayed by her, but then Susan was family. Why didn’t George run that night? Was he really interested in starting a relationship? She ran over the night in her mind and could not remember a moment when George did or said anything that made her feel lower then him. She felt he genuinely invited her over to have a good time with his friends and it didn’t matter to him that she couldn’t do magic. So, if that was true, was a relationship with a wizard a good thing? Her mother had told her, her whole life that she wanted her to separate herself from the magic world. But Abigail was brought up in that world and it was so difficult to cut it off completely. However, when it came to dating she seemed most approving of Jonathon, whom was also a squib. Well, it didn’t matter what her parents thought, she would have to live with her decisions. Then what would her friends think? Would George be able to meet them without setting off signals that he was a wizard? What about his friends? Would they care that she was a squib? Would they be more accepting then most wizards and witches? Or would they exile the both of them together? What would his family think? How upset would they be when they found out? It was inevitable they would, she wasn’t going to lie to them. She hated lying to people.

All of the sudden, Abigail was ripped from her thoughts and she screamed and jumped away from her front door. Susan had just opened it and also looked frightened.

“What are you doing out here?” she demanded. Abigail shook her head, then stepped across the threshold and collapsed on the couch. “Why didn’t you
just unlock the door and come in?” Susan asked.

“I was thinking,” replied Abigail vaguely. Her heart was still pounding and she
was trying to calm herself down.

“So you scratched the front door with you keys? I heard noises and I wasn’t sure what to do. I thought you were home when I got here. Then I looked through the peep hole and you were just standing there with a vague look on your face.”

“I was probably trying to unlock the door on some unconscious level.”

“Maybe you should have been paying attention.”

“I said I was thinking,” Said Abigail angrily, “I didn’t know what I was doing.”
Susan sat in the arm chair next to Abigail on the couch and took a deep breath. It was obvious to Abigail, that she wanted to know what she had been thinking about.

“I don’t want to talk right now, I’m tired and I’m going to bed,” Abigail stood and went into her room. She set her alarm, changed into her pajamas, and climbed into bed. She truly was knackered.

“Abby, hide under in here and don’t come out no matter what,” a familiar male voice said sternly in her ear. Abigail obeyed, no questions asked. She climbed down into the small hole in the floor. “I love you,” he said softly, “now don’t make any noise.” She looked up to where she had just come from, but the door was replaced blocking the last bit of light and she could not see the man’s face. She bit her lower lip fighting back the urge to cry. She was so scared. People were screaming and running and she was a lone in the dark. Her eyes adjusted and she could see streams of light coming from the cracks above her. She walked over to one and put her eye up to it. She wanted to know what was going on when. Then she distinctly heard the front door crash onto the ground and in her shock she fell backward away from the cracks. There were angry voices screaming and flashes of different colored lights. People were screaming louder now and she couldn’t fight the urge not to cry any longer. She burst into sobs and pulled herself back up to the cracks she had to see what was going on.

Abigail woke with a start, sitting straight up in her bed. Once again she was momentarily disoriented in the darkness that enclosed around her, but the feeling quickly subsided. It was the dream from before. The dream with the men in the cloaks and the screaming woman. Why oh – WHY – did she have to be having this dream? The memories of Justin and that awful night were enough to keep her awake at night without this dream adding to the mix.
She slumped back on her pillow and determinedly cleared her mind of all thoughts. She needed some sleep. If she was going to see George again, she wanted to look her best.

The next morning as Abigail was finishing getting ready to go to George’s house she heard a faint hooting from her bed room that made her stop. Was he writing to tell her not to come? She tore open the bathroom door and was shocked to find her family owl sitting on her desk. She walked over and smiled.

“Hi Persephone,” she said as she stroked the owls soft feathers. She untied the letter from her foot and read.

Abigail,
I haven’t heard from you in a while so I thought I would send you an owl with an invitation for lunch on Sunday around noon. Make sure you invite Susan as well. I would like to hear how things are. You can also pick up the money for your rent. You know how nervous I get about sending an owl with that much money. Your father misses you and sends his love.
Mum
She folded the letter and set it down on her desk.

“Do you mind staying here for a minute?” She asked Persephone. The owl blinked and ruffled her feathers. Abigail smiled and left the room. She knocked on Susan’s door then entered before she responded.

“Susan,” said Abigail softly.

“What?” Replied Susan, her face was in her pillow but she seemed more awake then the last time Abigail had woken her up.

“I just got an owl from my mum,” Susan rolled over and looked up at her cousin.

“So?” She asked after a moment.

“She’s invited us to lunch at the house on Sunday.”

“That sounds nice.”

“So you want to go then?”

“Sure,” she rolled back over and Abigail got up to leave. “Oi!” Susan suddenly exclaimed rolling back over onto her back to look at Abigail again.

“What?” Abigail barked.

“When you write back,” she said, “ask if I can bring a friend.”

“What friend?”

“Lucas Clearwater.”

“Who is that?”

“The wizard I had a date with last night,” Susan giggled, “we had a great time and I really want to see him again. I think he’d agree to lunch on Sunday.”

“Alright, I’ll ask.”

“You can bring George too,” she winked.

“I’ll ask,” repeated Abigail and she left her room, closing the door behind her. Once back in her room, she sat at her desk and wrote back to her mother.

Dear Mum,
Susan and I would love to come to lunch on Sunday at noon thank you for the invitation. She wanted to know, however, if she could bring a new friend of hers. His name is Lucas Clearwater and he’s a wizard. I made a new friend as well this week and I think he would enjoy lunch also. Before you wonder, he is a wizard and his name is George Weasley. Yes, he is one of Arthur Weasley’s many sons. Let me know if it is or is not alright that they come. Love,
Abby

Abigail tied the letter to Persephone’s leg before she changed her mind. She hadn’t planned on telling her mother about George yet, as it could explode into a multitude of questions. However, she didn’t know if he would want to go to her parent’s house for lunch or not, so there really wasn’t too much harm in asking if he could. She looked at her watch and realized she was running late. So, she grabbed her things and dashed out of the door.

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Chapter Five: Saturday with George

Abigail wasn’t sure which twin opened the door when she got there. He was wearing a white t-shirt that had a ‘G’ sewn on the pocket and dark blue pajama pants. But his smile was different and there was a look of mischief in his eyes. Plus there weren’t any strong feelings that usually seemed to radiate from him. She stood there for a moment looking at him trying to decipher if it was really him or not, when the other twin came down the stairs. When he smiled at her she knew that he was George.

“Fred!” She shrieked as she hit him in the chest.

“Oi! That hurt!” Fred replied with a sly grin across his face. “Your girlfriend can hit pretty hard mate.” He said to George, who was behind him. Abigail pushed past Fred and stepped inside, pretending she hadn’t heard the ‘girlfriend’ part of his sentence. Fred closed the door behind her. George smiled at her.

“I wasn’t in on that.” He said pointing at Fred.

“What?” said Fred, “letting me take the blame for your idea?” Abigail raised an eyebrow at George, wondering if he had been in on it or not.

“He’s lying,” George replied laughing slightly.

“I was just trying to see if she could tell us apart,” admitted Fred, “If you hadn’t come down stairs just then, I probably could have convinced her I was you,” he smirked. Abigail pulled her arms across her chest.

“It was not funny,” she replied trying to look cross. Both Fred and George laughed and she was unable to force back her smile.

“Right,” said Fred, still chuckling as he went into the kitchen.

“Morning,” said George grinning at her. Even though they were identical twins, Abigail couldn’t help but feel that George was cuter. He was wearing the same white t-shirt with a ‘G’ sewn on to the pocket and dark blue pajama pants.

“Morning yourself,” she replied smiling brightly.

“Are you hungry?” He asked making his way into the living room. “I think Fred’s making eggs and bacon.”

“No, I ate before I came.”

“Do you mind if I eat then?”

“No, not at all,” and she followed him into the kitchen.

“I’m not making her breakfast,” said Fred when she sat down at the table. George was getting plates from a cabinet. “Not unless she comes and takes a turn cooking.”

“I’m not hungry,” replied Abigail, “but I might consider coming over and cooking,” she said, “I like to cook.”

“I was only joking,” said Fred, “Do you want eggs?”

“No, I already ate,” and with that she picked up the Daily Prophet that was sitting on the table. She usually read the Prophet whenever Susan brought it home. There wasn’t anything very interesting in it today. George set the table while Abigail read.

“Go and get Lee,” said Fred, “he’ll be mad if it’s cold.” Abigail heard a loud pop and lowered the paper, George was gone. A second later, with another loud pop, he returned. Lee apparated into the kitchen a minute later and sat down on Abigail’s right.

“M-Morning,” he said to Abigail while stifling a yawn. He took a sip of the pumpkin juice on the table, the looked back at her quickly. “You didn’t stay here last night did you?” He asked and then turned to George so she couldn’t read his expression.

“No,” she replied and felt her cheeks flush. She looked at George and smiled when she saw that his face was slightly flushing also. Fred dumped eggs onto each of the boy’s plates and a second later added bacon. Then he pointed his wand at the dishes in the sink and they began to wash themselves rather haphazardly. Abigail smiled to herself, they were boys after all.

“Is this a morning ritual?” She asked as they ate quietly. George nodded.

“We take turns,” he said after swallowing his food, “doing the different chores.” Abigail nodded.

“That’s smart.”

“What do you and Susan do?” asked Lee.

“I clean up after myself and she cleans up after herself. It’s pretty simple.”

“I suppose when you know who made the mess that works,” he replied, “but with these two, I’m never sure.” He looked at them and they all laughed.

“What time do you open the shop?” She asked as the thought came into her head.

“It’s open at 8 every morning,” replied Fred.

“So who’s there now?”

“We hired some younger kids to open it on the weekends,” said George.

“You trust these new kids to be there by themselves?”

“Only on the weekends,” replied Lee, “it’s better then getting up at 7 every Saturday.”

“They don’t mind?” Abigail was shocked, surely they would mind.

“No, we pay them for it and everything,” replied George.

“I reckon it’s a bit stupid to trust them with it, but …” Fred let his voice trail off as he rolled his eyes and looked at George.

“They’re perfectly capable of running the shop for a few hours,” replied George.

“If I get there and find it destroyed-”

“You’ll perform the Cruciatus Cruse on me,” George finished, “I know.” Fred glared at him for a second then Abigail thought she saw him half-smile.

After they ate, George cleared the table and Lee made the dishes wash themselves while he supervised. He was better at this then Fred. Abigail went into the living room and sat on the couch. George followed and slipped his arm around her shoulder. He was becoming braver, this made her smile.

“We’re leaving,” said Lee at quarter of ten.

“Don’t do anything I wouldn’t,” Fred flashed a grin at George and then they both dissapparated. A thought crossed Abigail’s mind.

“Don’t you have to work today?” she asked. Why hadn’t this thought occurred to her before? Just because her job allowed her the weekends off, didn’t mean everyone else had the same luxury.

“No, I have the weekend off.”

“Why?”

“We take turns taking a weekend off. This weekend is my turn.” She smiled.

“So, what do you want to do?” She asked after a minute, “and don’t say stay here, because no offense, I don’t want to stay here.” He grinned.

“I hadn’t planned on staying here.”

“What had you planned?”

“Nothing,” he smiled, “I thought we were going to decide together.” She had an idea.

“You know what-”

“No what?” He teased.

“-let’s go for a bike ride,” she finished.

“A bike ride?” He sounded more surprised then repulsed so Abigail took this as
a good thing.

“You know how to ride a bike don’t you?” This was one of the few activities that were exactly the same to muggles and wizards. Of course, when a wizard taught their child, they didn’t have to run behind them holding onto the seat, they simply held the bike up by magic.

“Yes, but we don’t have any here,” George said with a look of triumph on his face.

“That’s alright; I have two at my flat.”

“Why do you have two?” He seemed amused at this.

“Because Susan and I go sometimes, you can use hers.” His smile faded.

“I don’t know,” he replied, “I haven’t done it in a very long time.”

“How long?”

“Since I was a kid,” he said.

“There’s a reason for the muggle expression ‘it’s like riding a bike.’” She smiled.

“No, let’s think of something else to do,” he pleaded.

“Why can’t we go for a bike ride?”

“It’s too cold outside.”

“You are making up excuses as you go along,” she said laughing a bit. She got up off the couch and stood in front of George.

“No I’m not,” he replied, “and they are all valid reasons.” He looked up at her.

“Come on,” she said.

“No, I really don’t think it’s a good idea,” he crossed him arms across his chest.

“Come on,” she repeated putting out her hands. He took them and she helped pull him to his feet.

“What would I wear?” This thought hadn’t crossed her mind. He certainly could not go in wizard robes.

“Do you have muggle clothes?” He furrowed his brow in thought.

“Some,” he replied, “let’s go look.” He passed her and walked to the stairs. Abigail followed until he started up the stairs. She stopped.

“We’re going to your room?” She asked while nervously running her fingers through her hair. He paused halfway up, turned, and looked down at her.

“Is that a problem?” He asked.

“Er-” she bit her lower lip, “not - not really.” He stood there for a moment looking down at her.

“If it’s a problem, I can pick something out myself.”

“No, it’s not a problem,” she hoped she sounded more confident. She began to walk up a few steps. “I just don’t want anyone to come home and get the wrong idea,” she lied, “if we’re seen in home alone, in your bed room.” He smiled at her with a playful look in his eyes.

“They aren’t due back for hours,” he replied, “don’t worry.” He turned and continued up the stairs, she swallowed hard but followed him reluctantly. He opened the second door on the right and went inside. Abigail stopped at the door and looked around. The room was neater than she expected, but still a mess. He had a four posted bed, a dresser, desk, and night stand. There were posters of different quidditch players on the walls. Abigail didn’t recognize any of them. He went to his dresser, bent over, and opened the bottom drawer.

“This is where I keep my muggle clothes,” he said to the space behind him. Then he turned and realized she wasn’t there. She cleared her throat and he turned sharply to the door and raised an eyebrow at her. “I thought you said it wasn’t a problem,” he said.

“Well I-”

“You don’t trust me,” he said incredulously, “I don’t believe it.”

“It’s not that I don’t trust you George,” she replied quickly, “I just-”

“You what?”

“Well if you let me, I will tell you,” she teased.

“Go on then,” he was standing with his hands on his hips, smirking.

“I just don’t think it’s a good idea for us to be alone in this house, in your bed room.”

“You don’t trust me,” he repeated and she stared at him.

“That’s not it,” she paused.

“You know, you’re cute when you lie.” She felt her cheeks flush.

“I’m not lying.”

“Then why won’t you come in?”

“Do you really want to know?”

“No, I only asked to hear myself talk,” he said, “I do that sometimes. I wasn’t really expecting an answer.”

“They’re called rhetorical questions.”

“What are?”

“When you ask a question that you don’t want the answer to,”

“Well that wasn’t what I meant.” She sighed.

“I have these rules from when I was younger,” he snickered. “Shut up,” she said.

“What kind of rules?” He asked.

“Will you let me explain?”

“Sure,” he sat down on his bed as if expecting a very long winded sermon.

“I made a list when I was younger, before I started dating,” she said, “and one rule on the list was not to be alone in a bed room with a boy.” He nodded.

“But I’m not a boy,” She blushed and he grinned. “I promise, I won’t do anything,” he said. “Just come in and pick out something for me to wear,” he got up and walked toward her. She resisted the urge to back away. He took her hands and she stepped inside.

“That wasn’t too bad was it?” He joked.

“I told you,” she replied, “you’re not funny.”

“Right,” he said trying to keep a straight face. She walked over to the open dresser drawer and looked down.

“Do these clothes fit?” She asked.

“Most of ‘em,” he shrugged. She bent over and pulled out a pair of light blue jeans and a black t-shirt, then handed them to him. “I could have done that myself,” he said.

“Then why didn’t you?”

“Because,” he answered, “last time I wore muggle clothes, my girlfriend at the time, Rita, told me I didn’t match.” He laughed softly to himself.

“Do you have any jumpers?” She asked gently rifling through the drawer.

“They’re in the closet,” he said walking over to it and opening the door. There was a ton of different types and colors of robes hanging up. Then on the far right there were different jumpers. The majority of them were dark green. She walked over and stood next to him.

“Do you like green?” she teased.

“Oh, that’s mum,” he replied, “Every year she makes everyone in the family, and Harry” he added, “a Weasley jumper.” Abigail smiled.

“That must be nice,” she said as he pulled one off a hanger to reveal a large ‘G’ across the front.

“It would be,” he said, “if she didn’t put a ‘G’ on everything to distinguish between Fred and me.” Abigail couldn’t help but giggle.

“I noticed,” She said pointing to the ‘G’ on the shirt he was wearing.

“Mum,” he replied with a shrug. “After 21 years you would think she could tell us apart.” She stared at him for a moment not saying anything. Then he suddenly pulled the shirt he was wearing off and Abigail turned away from him blushing. He had a very nice body and she should not have had the thoughts that went racing through her mind.

“I’ll let you change then,” she said leaving the room and closing the door behind her. He made no objections. She went back down stairs and waited for him by the front door.

“How do you plan on getting these bikes here?” He asked coming down the stairs a minute later. “It might look odd if I summoned them.”

“I don’t,” she had already thought of this.

“What do you mean?” He asked once he reached the door, eyeing her suspiciously.

“We’re going over to my flat and getting them.” She opened the door and tried to walk outside, but he took hold of her arm and held her where she was. He was much stronger than she was.

“How are we getting there?” He asked.

“In my car,” she laughed at the expression on his face. He let go of her.

“I haven’t been in a muggle car for a long time,” he said with a look between excitement and nervousness on his face.

“Good,” she replied, “you can experience a lot of things again today.” She started walking and he followed her, closing the door behind him. The air was chilly, but not too bad for bike riding. The sun would be brighter later so that would warm them up a bit. They reached her car and she unlocked it. She got into the drivers seat and waited for George to get into the passenger, he didn’t. She reached over and opened the door for him.

“Get in,” she said. He looked around and slowly squeezed himself into her car, making it look more difficult than it actually was. She had to laugh at him. He closed the door and then looked over at her expectantly. She started her car and they were off a moment later.

Feedback (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?t=37082) is, as always, very much appreciated!! Please let me know what you think! :tu:

A/N: This is an official update. Sorry for the confusion guys! I took down the chapters I had up and posted them in halves because I felt they were entirely too long. So, this is the first update in about a week.
I want to thank Norbertha, Wep, and Artermis_Hoou for posting in my feedback thread. You are fantastic and I appreciate it. :clap:


Chapter Five: Saturday with George (Part II)

“Why didn’t I just come over to your house this morning?” George asked a little while later, after they had parked and were walking toward her flat.

“One,” Abigail replied, “You didn’t know where I lived this morning-”

“I could have asked-”

“And two,” she continued ignoring his interruption, “We didn’t know what we were going to do.”

“But you obviously had this in mind the whole time,” he replied.

“No, I didn’t.” She started up the stairs that led to her flat.

“What,” he said exasperatedly, “no lift?” She smiled at him.

“I didn’t expect you knew what a lift was,” she teased.

“They use them at the Ministry,” he said huffily. She smiled.

“I was joking,” she replied and he smiled.

“I know.” They went upstairs and she used her key to get inside.

“Susan,” Abigail called loudly upon opening the door, “George is here.” George looked around as Abigail opened curtains to let the sun light in.

“It’s larger then I expected,” he said quietly. “So, where are these bikes?”

“Oh,” she said, “I should ask Susan if you can borrow hers.” Abigail walked over and knocked on Susan’s door. “Wait here for a second,” she said to George, then slipped in to Susan’s room. Susan’s bed was vacant, that meant she was in the bathroom.

“Susan,” said Abigail walking over to closed door.

“What?” was the reply.

“Can I borrow your bike?” Abigail asked. The door opened and there stood Susan in a towel.

“Why?” She asked.

“George and I are going for a bike ride and he doesn’t have a bike.”

“You and George?” Susan eyed her suspiciously.

“Yes,” replied Abigail, “can he use yours?”

“Sure,” she shrugged, “But how are you going to get it over to his house? They both won’t fit in your car and you can’t ride both at once.”

“George is here.”

“Here?” She looked surprised.

“In the living room.”

“Why is he here?”

“To borrow your bike, I thought we went over this.”

“Yes, take the bike,” said Susan, “just let me know next time he’s coming over. What if he opened the door while I was changing or something?”

“Thanks,” replied Abigail and she left the room. George was standing by the front door playing with the lights.

“What did she say?” He asked.

“She said you can use it.”

“Why didn’t I just conjure up some bikes at my house?” George asked.

“I don’t know,” she replied, “why didn’t you?” he shrugged.

“I just thought about it.”

“Good timing.” She quipped and walked to the door that led to the porch. George laughed lightly and followed her. She took her dark green bike and wheeled it through the living room and out of the front door. George followed her with Susan’s red one.

Ten minutes later they were riding side by side down the streets of London. George seemed to be enjoying himself and Abigail was glad she had suggested this; despite the fact that she practically forced him to do it. They didn’t stop anywhere; they just rode around, talking and laughing. Abigail couldn’t have been happier. Around 2 o’clock they returned to George’s house. They left the bikes in the entrance hall and plunked down on the couch.

“That was fun,” said George smiling. Abigail resisted the urge to say, ‘I told you so’.

“I’m glad,” she decided on.

“Are you hungry?” He asked.

“A little,” He stood and took her hands; helping her off the couch in the same fashion she had helped him.

“They’re probably still some sandwiches.” He led her into the kitchen. She sat down at the table and he pulled out some left over sandwiches from the fridge.

“What do you want to drink?” He asked.

“Butterbeer,” she replied, “I haven’t had any in a little while.” He handed her a bottle and took one himself, then sat down at the table with her. They both ate quietly. She was hungrier then she thought because she ate quite a few and they were good.

“What do you want to do now?” George asked after they were finished eating.

“Do you want to play chess?” She asked. She was fairly good at this game, not the best, but not too terrible either.

“Sure,” George stood and Abigail followed him into the living room. He took the chess set out of a closet and set it up on a small table that was by the window. After about an hour Abigail conceded defeat to George. He was considerably better then she was.

“So,” he said leaning back in his chair, “what are your plans for tonight?”

“I haven’t made any,” she replied.

“Why not?” She shrugged in response, feeling heat rise to her face. She had expected him to want to spend the entire day with her. “What are your friends doing?” He asked. She shrugged again.

“I don’t know.”

“Well, I’d like to meet them,” he said. She looked at him for a moment and then understood.

“Are you saying you want to go out with them tonight?” She asked.

“Since you’re offering,” he smiled, “yes.”

“I’d have to see what they’re doing,” she replied.

“What do you normally do?”

“Go see a movie or -”

“Movie?” He raised his eyebrows. “Those thing muggles watch on a screen in a dark room?” She chuckled.

“Yes,” she replied, “Something like that. Have you seen one before?”

“I can’t say that I have,” he replied,

“We’ll have to do it sometime,” she smiled, “Maybe tonight. Let me ring my friends.”

“Do what?”

“Use the telephone.”

“I don’t have one.”

“I have my mobile,” she patted a pocket of her fitted jeans. He looked questioningly at her for a moment. So she pulled it out of her pocket and handed it to him. He stared at it.

“This is it?” He asked flipping it over in his hand. She nodded. “And you can talk to your friends with this?” She nodded again. “Weird,” he looked at it for a minute skeptically.

“Can I have it back please?” He smiled mischievously and handed it back. “I’m going outside to use it,” she said, “it won’t work in here.” She stood and went out into the back yard. George didn’t follow.

“Hello?” Jonathon answered after a few rings.

“Hiya,” replied Abigail happily.

“You sound happy,”

“What are you doing tonight?”

“Why?”

“I thought maybe we could do something.”

“I don’t know Abby,” he said, “I doubt Allison would like that.”

“She can come too, in fact the more the merrier.”

“What are you on about?”

“George wants to meet my friends,” she explained.

“Oh,” then there was silence.

“What does that mean?” Abigail asked after a moment.

“Nothing, I understand now. I said I wouldn’t go with you to meet his friends so you want him to come and meet me and our friends.”

“No, I hadn’t even thought about that.”

“Right,” he paused, “I’ll ring ‘round and ring you back.”

“Good.” She rang off, then stood up and went back inside. George was sitting in the living room reading The Daily Prophet. She walked over and sat next to him.

“What did your friends say?” He asked with a silly grin.

“They don’t have plans, but Jonathon is going to get some people together.”

“You really talked to him?” He asked observing her with distrust written on his face.

“Yes, I talked to Jonathon,” Abigail replied laughing slightly.

“Speaking of him,” George said while folding up the paper and setting it on the coffee table, “How did you meet?” She smiled.

“It’s interesting really,” she began, “when I was younger my parents thought for certain I was a witch, even though I wasn’t showing any sings of being magical.” George nodded, “But by my tenth birthday they were getting a little worried. So my mum started asking her friends when they knew their child was magical. Well one of mum’s friends suggested a seminar called, ‘So you think your child’s a squib.’ Mum went about nutters at the suggestion. She said there was no way that I was a squib.” George nodded again. “Well after my eleventh birthday mum was getting really antsy. She said she just knew I was a witch but she took me to the seminar just to be absolutely certain. That’s where I met Jonathon and his mum and dad. They seemed just as worried as my mum was, so naturally they got along great. After we left, Jonathon and I owled one another about how we both knew we weren’t magical. His younger sister was doing magic and he was really upset about it. I didn’t really have any wizarding friends. I spent a lot of my time with Susan and occasionally with some of my mum’s friend’s children. Well, after September came around and neither of us got a Hogwarts letter, mum sent me to the same muggle school as Jonathon. We’ve been best friends ever since then,” she smiled. George looked truly intrigued and she wondered if he was faking.

“I’ll bet that was rough huh?” He asked when she finished.

“What?”

“Not getting your letter.”

“I knew it wasn’t coming after the seminar. My parents were just in denial.” She sighed and leaned back against the couch.

“Were they angry?”

“Yeah and they had this huge row about what to do. They were going to send me to a boarding school in France, but Jonathon’s mum told them where he was going before they chose a boarding school. So they let me stay at home and go to school every day and come back again. Mum had to ask her cousin Dylan’s wife Rachel, who is a muggle, what I should wear to school. She took me and Jonathon shopping for clothes.” She smiled to herself, “I always liked Rachel.”

“You went to muggle school until you were 17 right? Just like us?”

“No, I went to secondary school until I was 18, some stop at 16 though.”

“Then why are you still going?” He asked.

“I am going to Oxford University,” she replied, “It’s where muggles go to get extra training for their career. It’s sort of like the auror training your brother is going to, except it’s not defined for a specific career. It’s just extra schooling.”

“You sit through classes with a professor?”

“Yes.”

“There’s now way I would do that. 7 years at Hogwarts was plenty for me.” She smiled.

“It’s not really an option in the muggle world. If you want a good job that pays well, you have to go to a university.” He nodded.

“So, after school, you have more school.” She nodded. “And when you’re done with that, what kind of job will you have?”

“I want to sell art.”

“What do you mean?” He asked, “Like paintings and things right?”

“Basically,” she replied.

“I’ve seen muggle paintings before,” said George, “they’re weird.”

“I thought so too the first time I saw one.”

“They just sit there. They don’t even talk,” he flashed a grin, “not that that’s a bad thing. I’d prefer it sometimes if our paintings didn’t talk.” She smiled. “So now you live in a flat with Susan,” he said, “How did that happen?”

“What is this, one hundred questions?”

“I’m just curious,” he replied innocently. “I have only known you for a week.”

“I thought I told you the other night how I ended up living with Susan.”

“No,” he said, “You didn’t.”

“I think I did.”

“Either way, I don’t remember,” he shrugged, “looks like you’ll just have to refresh my memory.”

“My parents pay for my flat. After I graduated they sort of told me they didn’t want me to live at home anymore. They said they were tired of lying to all of their friends and frankly I was tired of living there and lying to their friends.”

“No one knows you’re a squib then?”

“Definitely not,” she scowled, “they wanted to keep up appearances. They told everyone I was a witch and went to Beauxbatons because I had a distant relative who worked there. That’s why I had to study French in school, in case anyone asked me about it.”

“Didn’t anyone see you around the house?”

“When they had friends over, I would stay locked in my room. It was highly annoying. I felt like my parents were ashamed of me, which over the years, I have concluded they are.”

“That can’t be true,” he replied. She stared at him for a second.

“You’ve never met them.”

“But didn’t anyone see you coming and going?”

“No,” she replied, “the house is in a muggle village. We were the only wizarding family that we knew of in the area. No one knew that I didn’t go to Beauxbatons.”

“Oh,” he replied. “Didn’t your friends from school ever come over?”

“Abso-bloody-lutely not,” she said resentfully. “Can you imagine muggle children walking into your house?” He smiled.

“No,” he shook his head. “Didn’t they wonder though?”

“Of course,” she replied, “and it was hard keeping it from them. I didn’t have most of the things muggle children do, like a house phone, so they couldn’t ring me. Or a car so I had to either get rides everywhere or just not go places. The muggle post man doesn’t deliver to our house because we don’t have a letter box so my friends that moved couldn’t write to me. Everyone thought I was right strange. Everyone except Jonathon, he was the only one who understood.” He nodded and made a noise of agreement.

“So, how exactly did you come to live with Susan?”

“Oh,” Abigail smiled, “we’ve always gotten along very well. So when she left Hogwarts, she wanted to move to London to be closer to the Ministry and I reckon she was tired of living at home. So my mum wrote to me and asked if I would let her live with me. I agreed and she moved in.” She smiled.

“That make sense,” he replied.

“Oi!” Abigail suddenly exclaimed jumping off the couch.

“What?” George asked looking alarmed.

“I just remembered,” she replied, “my mobile won’t work in here.”

“What are you on about?”

“Jonathon said he would ring me back when they had a plan and he can’t if my mobile isn’t working.” She walked across the living room, through the kitchen, and went out the back door. George followed her a moment later; she was already dialing Jonathon’s number.

PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE let me know what you think about my story. Great? Awful? I can take it, I would just like to know that people are interested! (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?t=37082) :tu:

A/N: I know this update took a while to get up, but here you are. I hope you enjoy it.


Chapter Six: Meeting Her Friends

“Hello?” Jonathon answered the phone.

“Hey,” said Abigail quietly.

“Where the ruddy hell have you been?” Jonathon demanded.

“You mean that actually works?” George asked incredulously.

“Of course it works,” replied Abigail, “I used it earlier.”

“Work?” Jonathon said, “Since when do you work on Saturdays?”

“Where are all the thick strings and stuff that come out of regular telephones?” George asked trying to take the phone from her.

“No,” said Abigail laughing, “it’s mobile.” George’s confused expression didn’t change, “I forget how little wizards know about muggle technology,” she said laughing.

“Abby!” Jonathon’s shout got her attention.

“Oh,” Abigail pulled the phone back to her ear, “I’m sorry-”

“I’m glad you’re having fun,” he interrupted crossly, “but why haven’t you been answering your mobile?”

“I’m at George’s house and it doesn’t work inside,” George sat down on a nearby bench looking relaxed.

“Do you still want to go out tonight?”

“Yes,” she replied.

“Allison suggested we rent some movies and order pizza.”

“I stayed in last night,” she replied quietly so George couldn’t hear, “I sort of wanted to go out.”

“Hey,” said George getting up, “Are you talking about me?”

“No,” she lied.

“We can go out to eat if you want.”

“Where?”

“Porters?”

“We always go there.”

“Because it’s good,” he said happily, “do you have a different suggestion?”
“No,” she answered.

“Alright then,” she could hear the mild laughter in his voice, “Porters it is. 7 o’clock?”

“Yeah,” she said and rang off. She collapsed on the bench and George sat next to her. Neither said a word to another. Abigail lapped up the relaxed silence.

“How do you feel about eating at a muggle restaurant?” She reluctantly broke the silence.

“Why?”

“Because that’s what my friends are doing tonight,” she replied looking over at him.

“I’ve never really eaten at a muggle shop before,” he replied. “I don’t know anything about muggle money. In fact, I don’t have any on me.”

“We can go to Diagon Alley and exchange your money if that’s what your worried about.” She replied.

“What sorts of things do muggles eat?” He asked.

“Same basic things you do,” she said huffily, “you make it sound like they’re from a different planet.”

“You mean they’re not?” She glowered at him and he raised his hands in surrender. “I was only joking,” he chuckled. “You don’t suppose I’ll get sick then?”

“You’re not funny,” she replied trying to keep the smile from her lips with difficulty.

“Oh really? That’s news to me.”

“Stop it,” she hit him playfully in the arm.

“If you want me to go,” he said, “I reckon I don’t have much choice,” he smiled.

“No, you don’t.” she replied.

“Where are we going?”

“Place called Porters,” she replied, “We go there a lot.”

“Where is it?”

“Just down the street, not too far from here.”

“Do we have to take your car again?”

“It’s not far, we can walk.”

“Can I wear this?”

“If you want to,” she smiled at him.

“Who’s going to come?”

“I didn’t ask you this many questions when you asked me to meet your friends last night.”

“No, you only wrote me an owl every day,” he smirked.

“I don’t know who is going to come,” she replied. “Jonathon and Allison I suppose.”

“Are all of your friends muggles?” He asked.

“I told you I didn’t know very many decent wizards when I met you.”

“That doesn’t include witches.”

“Yes,” she answered his question, “all of my friends are muggles.”

“This should be fun,” he said with a grin.

“None of them know about you,” she said quietly.

“You haven’t talked about me to any of them?” He asked.

“No, only to Jonathon.”

"You and your other mate haven’t made up yet?”

“Sarah?”

“If you say that’s her name,” he replied.

“No,” she answered then sighed. George slipped her arm around her shoulder in a comforting sort of way and pulled her slightly closer to him so that she was leaning against him a little.

“Do you row a lot?” He asked.

“Every now and again,” she replied.

“Does she know you’re a squib?”

“No,” she said, “but she knows something is off. She doesn’t know Susan’s a witch either. She thinks she’s weird and has weird friends.” They both chuckled slightly.

“How long have you been friends for?”

“Almost four years.” George let out a low whistle.

“You must be very good to keep this from her for that long.” She nodded.

“I hate lying to her,” she felt a burning sensation in the back of her eyes. It was hard not talking to your best friend, someone you talk to everyday, for a week.

“Have you talked to her?” He asked seeming to be able to read her mind. Then she thought he probably could.

“I don’t know what to say,” she replied.

“Why did you row anyway?”

“I was supposed to write a paper the night I came to your party with Susan,” she said, “and so I had to write the paper the next night when I was supposed to go to a party with her.”

“So she’s possessive?” Abigail couldn’t help but laugh. George didn’t even know her and he hit it right on the nail.

“She hates when I go out with Susan,” said Abigail, “and that when I do I don’t invite her.”

“Can’t can you?” He asked, “You’d have to tell her everything.” She nodded.

“I know.”

“This seems like a right hard predicament you’ve gotten yourself into.” He said with a smile, “I’m glad it’s not me.” She smiled.

“Oi! George!” Lee yelled out of the window from inside making both Abigail and George jump at the sudden intrusion. “I found him Fred, he’s outside!” Lee yelled again before opening the back door and stepping outside.

“Hi Lee,” said George smiling.

“Alright there Abby?” He asked nodding at Abigail.

“Alright,” she replied. At that moment Fred apparated into the back yard.

“What are you doing out here?” Lee asked them both.

“We’re just talking,” said Abigail.

“Talking huh?” Fred asked looking at George. Abigail smiled at the insinuation.

“What time is it?” She interjected before George could reply. Lee looked at his watch.

“5:30,” he said, “Why?”

“We have plans at seven and I wanted to make sure we got there on time.” She replied as though this were a simple fact. Fred and Lee stared at George.

“You have plans?” Fred asked. George nodded but said nothing.

“Who with?” was Lee’s question.

“My friends,” said Abigail.

“Who are they?” Fred asked.

“You don’t know them.”

“How do you know?”

“Why are you interrogating us?” Abigail asked suddenly defensive. “Can’t George and I go out without you asking a million questions?”

“No,” Lee joked

“You two are so much alike,” she huffed. “You both ask a million questions.” Now she understood how everyone could get them confused. George did not seem the least upset about her comment. He told her they were a lot alike.

“It’s just we usually do stuff together,” Fred replied. Abigail looked up at George. He hadn’t said a word since, ‘Hi Lee’.

“Do you?” She asked him. He looked at her.

“Sometimes,” he nodded, “I consult Fred before I go out.”

“Part of being a twin?” She asked with a smile. George nodded.

“What are you two on about?” Fred asked.

“You don’t know her friends,” said George to Fred.

“Do you?” He asked.

“No.”

“Were you going to tell us you had plans mate?” Lee asked this time.

“I didn’t think I had to,” replied George.

“You don’t,” said Fred sounding a little offended.

“Right,” said Lee, “I’m going inside. You two have fun.” He turned and went through the door. Fred looked at them for a minute before turning and going inside also.

“That was odd,” Abigail said once the door was closed.

“That was Fred,” he replied and they both laughed.

“Is it a family trait to ask so many questions?” she quipped.

“It’s only because we just met and they don’t know anything about you.”

“I figured you didn’t tell them about ...” she let her voice trail off. Was he too ashamed to tell his brother and best friend he was potentially going to date a squib?

“I didn’t know if you wanted me to or not.”

“It doesn’t matter,” she shrugged, “They’re going to find out sooner or later.” He smiled. Abigail looked up at the sky; it was a brilliant light pink color. She knew the sun was setting long before she looked up because she had felt the temperature dropping slightly and it was getting slightly darker.

“Do you want to go inside?” George asked.

“Only if you do,” she responded. He shrugged.

“I’m comfortable,” he said simply. Abigail looked at his arm that was around her shoulders and smiled. I could get used to this, she thought as they sat surrounded by comfortable silence. She let her mind wander as they sat there. Was this real? She wondered. She had only known him for a little more than week and she was more comfortable than with any other guy she had ever dated, excluding Jonathon. He hadn’t even kissed her yet. Maybe he thought he was being to forward if he kissed her. But he had taken his shirt off in front of her. She smiled when this thought entered her mind. Tonight, she decided, if he didn’t kiss her, she would kiss him. If they kissed and she felt no sparks, then they could just be friends. This didn’t seem probable in her mind. But if they kissed and she did feel something, she would invite him to lunch the next day. Maybe she would invite him either way.

“I think we should go in,” George’s voiced pulled her from her thoughts.

“Huh?” She asked.

“I’m getting cold,” he said.

“Oh,” she stood and followed him inside.

“Do you want to go to Diagon Alley?” He asked as they entered the warm kitchen.

“Sure,” she replied. So they grabbed their cloaks and left, not saying anything to Fred or Lee. They returned about an hour later and played a game of exploding snap with Lee who did not ask any questions regarding their whereabouts or their plans for the evening. Abigail was glad.

Around 7 o’clock that night George and Abigail arrived at Porters, hand in hand. She smiled when she saw Jonathon’s car. Jonathon and Allison got out once they saw George and Abigail.

“Jonathon,” Abigail said smiling brightly, “this is George. George, this is Jonathon.” George smiled at Jonathon as they shook hands. Jonathon looked him over for a minute with an expression Abigail could not discern.

“This is Allison,” he said after a brief second.

“Hiya,” George said smiling and shaking her hand. Allison smiled.

“Where is everyone?” Abigail asked.

“Coming,” said Jonathon, still eyeing George.

“Who’s coming?”

“I called Sarah, but she declined,” he said quickly, “so Allison suggested Olivia-”

“-And Helen and Paul-” Allison added

“-And Kyle and Christina-” Jonathon said. Abigail nodded, she knew them.

“-And Walter, Bill, and Phillip,” said Allison, “although they weren’t sure if they were coming or not.” Abigail was glad they had stopped talking. Finishing each others sentences was something she hated couples doing. She gave a weary look at Jonathon.

“Walter?”

“We couldn’t just invite Bill and Phillip especially since he answered the phone.” Abigail shrugged. Oh well. They didn’t even know if he was coming or not.

“That’s a lot of people,” said George.

“We have a lot of friends,” Jonathon replied sharply.

“Well, let’s go inside and wait,” said Allison. However, right then a horn honked as it passed them. Abigail recognized Christina driving and Kyle in the passenger seat. They parked and walked over to the four congregated in the parking lot.

“Wotcha Jonathon,” Kyle said when she grew close. Abigail introduced Kyle and Christina to George.

“Can we go in now?” Allison asked, “I should have worn a thicker jumper.”

“There’s Paul,” said Abigail pointing behind Allison.

“Why don’t you go get us a table?” Jonathon asked Allison sweetly. She smiled at him and walked across the parking lot.

“Hiya,” said Helen as they approached. Olivia was eyeing George with a look of interest.

“George,” said Abigail immediately, “this is Paul, Helen, and Olivia.” They smiled at him. “This is George,” she finished.

“How do you do,” said Paul shaking George’s hand.

“How do you do,” George replied.

“Do we want to go in and wait?” Jonathon asked the group. There was a murmur of agreement and they walked across the parking lot and into the restaurant.

Please let me know what you think in my feedback thread here (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?t=37082). :tu:

Chapter Six: Meeting Her Friends Part II

Allison had procured a very large table and the assembled group took their seats, leaving three empty. There were menus already on the table. However, Jonathon and Abigail didn’t pick one up. Abigail already knew what she wanted. George opened one and leaned over to Abigail.

“What are you getting?” He asked quietly in her ear.

“Beer battered cod and chips,” she whispered back, “they’re my favorite here.” He nodded and put his menu down. “I promise you won’t get sick,” she added in a mocking tone.

“Funny,” he replied, “I’m going to hold you to that.” He smirked. When the waitress came over, Jonathon ordered them all a pint of beer each and told her they were waiting for more people to come.

“Beer?” George whispered, “Like butterbeer?”

“No,” she whispered back. He raised an eyebrow at her. “You’ll like it.” Just then the door opened and Phillip, Walter, and Bill walked in. They said hello to everyone and were introduced to George, then sat.

“You look smart Abby,” Walter said as he sat down on her left. George was on her right.
“
Thank you,” she replied coldly. George put his arm around the back of her chair apparently catching the flirtation in Walter’s tone. She smiled at him gratefully. She saw Walter glance at his arm, then pick up a menu with a sour expression on his face. She knew he liked her. He hit on her every chance he got. The waitress came back and passed out the pints. Then she left to get three more. Everyone took swallows of theirs. George sniffed his first and Abigail saw Jonathon, who was sitting across from her, watching him.

“Haven’t you had beer before?” Allison asked, taking notice as well. She was seated on Jonathon’s left

“He tries not to drink,” said Abigail quickly.

“Why?” Kyle asked from Allison’s left. Everyone now had their attention on George.

“Religious reasons,” she said thinking quickly. There was a collective, ‘oh’ around the table and everyone went back to studying their menus. Everyone, that is, except Jonathon, who stared at her.

“Just try it,” Abigail said quietly to George ignoring Jonathon’s stare. He smiled at her and took a sip. His smile broadened.

“Not half bad,” he took another drink, “Not as good as Fire whisky mind you,” he whispered so only she could hear him. The waitress came back a second later and they all ordered. George mimicked what Abigail said to her.

“Do you go to uni George?” Olivia asked him after everyone had ordered. She was seated on Jonathon’s right. George swallowed hard.

“No,” he replied after glancing at Abigail. She had explained on the walk over that ‘uni’ was what they said when they meant university and it was best to tell them the truth if they asked.

“Then what do you do?” Paul joined in on the conversation; he was seated on George’s right.

“I run a joke shop with my brother and best friend,” he replied and took a sip of his beer.

“You run a joke shop?” Allison seemed bemused by this. He nodded.

“Where is it?” Phillip, who was seated on Walter’s left, asked as he leaned down the table. Abigail didn’t know what to do she hadn’t prepared for that.

“Weren’t you saying earlier you didn’t have a store front?” Jonathon asked, looking at Abigail. “It’s run strictly on-line right?” Abigail beamed at him.

“That’s right,” she said. George nodded, but Abigail knew he didn’t know what they were talking about.

“Where did you go to secondary school?” Walter asked.

“Dunraven,” Abigail said the first name that came to her head. A few of them nodded but she knew that they didn’t live in London so they probably hadn’t heard of it before, except Walter and Jonathon.

“So what university did you go to then to get your business degree?” Helen asked she was seated on Paul’s left.
“
I didn’t,” George replied. Here we go, thought Abigail.

“You didn’t?” Kyle asked. George shook his head.

“So after you graduated from secondary school, you just started this online joke shop?” Christina was now in the conversation. She was seated at the head of the table between Kyle, on her left, and Helen, on her right.

“Basically,” replied George. He was nervously playing with the fork on the table.

“That’s enough grilling George,” said Abigail firmly.

“We’re just curious,” Olivia replied.

“Right,” Abigail rolled her eyes.

“How are your classes going Abby?” Walter asked.

“They’re fine,” she said desperate to change the subject from George, “how’s work?”

“It’s wonderful,” he smiled, “I heard you had a rough test last week?” He touched her pinky finger on her left hand gently which was sitting on top of the table.

“Yeah,” she said pulling her hand away. She hated it when he touched her. “I did alright though.” Abigail glanced at George. He was glaring at Walter, who seemed not to notice. At that moment, Abigail was saved by their waitress, who arrived with two other servers carrying their food. She passed it out and they began to eat. Abigail smiled encouragingly at George and they both took a bite together. He smiled and ate quickly. No one directed any questions at them. They simply talked to one another and Abigail was grateful. After they finished, Jonathon asked for the bill. They all gave him their money and then got up and went outside. It was chillier now that the sun was down.

“It was nice seeing you again Abby,” Bill said to her as they stood outside waiting for Jonathon, “but we have other engagements tonight,” he winked and walked across the parking lot to Phillip’s car.

“We should get together again sometime,” said Phillip to Paul. “We don’t see each other enough.”

“Yeah,” Paul agreed. Phillip crossed the parking lot and joined Bill at his car.

“Abby,” said Walter from behind her. She turned to face him. “My number’s changed,” he handed her a piece of folded paper, “so if you want to get together, you have it.” He smiled slyly. Abigail just stared at the piece of paper in her hand, in disbelief. “It was nice meeting you Greg,” he said to George.

“It’s George,” George growled through clenched teeth.

“Right,” Walter winked at Abigail suggestively and walked across the parking lot. Jonathon walked out as the other three drove away.

“Do you want to come back to my flat with us?” Jonathon asked Abigail. She looked at George, who seemed very upset.

“Do you?” She asked him.

“It doesn’t matter,” he replied shrugging his shoulders.

“No,” Abigail said to Jonathon, “thank you,” she smiled sweetly, “but no thank you.” They all chuckled at the way this sentence came out.

“You should come,” said Olivia, “We’re going to watch some movies.”

“No, that’s alright,” Abigail said quickly, “we’re just going to go.”

“Do you want a ride?” Allison asked, “It’s a little dark and cold to walk.”

“No, we’ll be just fine,” said Abigail.

“It was nice meeting all of you,” said George.

“Yeah, nice meeting you,” said Jonathon and they shook hands again, “ring me later Abby, when you get home.” She nodded. They said goodbye to everyone, then turned and began the walk back to George’s house.

“What’s with that bloke Walter?” George asked after they were a few blocks from Porters.

“What?” Abigail asked.

“Walter,” said George, “he was hitting on you all through dinner.” Abigail smiled. So he was jealous. She knew this was why he was upset.

“Oh, that prat,” she replied, “I can’t stand him.”

“You can’t?” There was surprise to his tone.

“No. He’s always hitting on me that slimy little git.” George seemed to relax a little.

“How do you know him?”

“We went to secondary school together,” she sighed, “he’s been Jonathon’s friend for years.”

“What was that paper he gave you?” Abigail pulled the piece of paper she had absentmindedly put in her pocket.

“His number,” she replied.

“I heard him,” George said, “what number?”

“Oh, for his phone,” she giggled. “I keep forgetting how little you know about the muggle world.” He did not return her smile, “Can you do me a favor?” She stopped walking and he stopped to face her.

“Depends on what it is,” there was a glint of suspicion in his eyes.

“Can you make a fire?”

“Come again?”

“Just a small one,” she knew he heard her.

“What for?”

“So I can burn this,” she held the piece of paper up. George looked around them, then took her hand and pulled her into a side alley.

“Is there anyone around?” He asked. She looked and didn’t see anyone.

“No,” she replied. He pulled his wand from the waist band of his jeans. They smiled at one another. She held the piece of paper as he said a quick spell under his breath and it lit on fire. He returned his wand to the waist band of his jeans and she waited until the paper was too hot to hold, then dropped it on the ground and stomped on it.

“Feel better?” He mocked.

“Much,” she replied with a smile. He gently took her hand in his and they continued their walk toward his house.

“Why didn’t you want to go to Jonathon’s flat?” George asked a few minutes later.

“You seemed upset.”

“I was angry at Walter,” he said, “flirting with you right in front of me, and then calling me Greg.” He made a noise of disgust.

“Plus,” she continued, “I watch movies at his flat all the time. I wanted to spend more time with you.” George raised one eye brow at her.

“You watch movies at his flat all the time?”

“He’s my best friend.” She said calmly with a smirk.

“Oh,” was all he said, but he squeezed her hand a little.

“I’m sure Fred and Lee are at the house,” he commented as they drew closer to the house.

“Is that a bad thing?”

“I don’t know,” he answered, “it could be.”

“What if they’re not there?” She asked.

“They’re there,” he said, “They don’t usually go anywhere. People usually come to us.”

“What if they’re throwing a huge party when we get there?” George didn’t reply. They reached the house and went inside to find it dark a quite. George lit the candles with his wand.

“Party huh?” he teased Abigail. She laughed. “Fred,” he called, “Lee.” There was no answer.

“They’ll be here right?” Abigail quipped. George shrugged and led her into the living room.

“Are you hungry?” He asked.

“We just ate.”

“Thirsty?”

“No,” she replied, “I do have an idea,” He looked at her, “Let’s go to my flat.”

“What?”

“I don’t like being here a lone … at night … with you.” He smirked.

“Another one of your rules?”

“No, it’s not a rule,” she said, “and Susan will probably be at my flat.” He stood where he was. “And we need to return the bikes.”

“You want to ride the bikes back?” He asked, “At this hour?”

“Yes.” She fixed him with as best a puppy dog stare as she could give. He regarded her thoughtfully for a moment.
“
Alright,” he finally agreed as he walked back to the front door and she followed.

“Where are they?” She asked looking around. Her head swam slightly as she did this from the alcohol in her system.

“Outside,” he replied opening the front door.

Fifteen minutes later they were at her flat. George had to help her get her bike up the stairs. It turned out that Susan was not at the flat like Abigail thought she would be. After they put the bikes back out on the porch they sat on the couch.

“I have a question for you this time,” she said facing him.

“Alright,” he said this with a little trepidation.

“What are you doing tomorrow?”

“If that’s your way of inviting me to stay over-” he grinned.

“No!” She exclaimed hitting him in the chest. “My mum invited Susan and me over to the house for lunch tomorrow at noon, and I thought you might want to come.” He sat pondering this for a moment.

“You want me to meet your parents?” She rolled her eyes, “That seems a bit soon-”

“I keep telling you,” she interrupted smiling, “You’re not funny.”

“I forgot,” he responded dully.

“Do you want to come?” She asked biting her lower lip.

“I hate when you do that,” he replied.

“Do what?”

“Bite your lip like that.” She stopped.

“I didn’t know I was doing it,” She suddenly felt ashamed that she was doing something he hated.

“It makes me have thoughts I shouldn’t be having,” he reached up and tucked a piece of loose her hair behind her ear tenderly. She blushed brightly. He gently put his hand on her neck, just below her right ear massaging her cheek softly with his thumb. They looked into each others eyes. He leaned toward her and at the same time pulled her toward him. She felt her breath catch in her throat as she realized what he was going to do. He put his other hand on the other side of her neck just below her left ear so that his hands cupped her face. This was the most that he had touched her since they had met and Abigail had to smile at this thought. She closed her eyes and felt his lips press gently against hers at first. Then he tilted her head slightly to one said and deepened the kiss. Feelings she had never felt before erupted inside of her. She reached up and grabbed his shirt, pulling him closer to her eagerly. He pulled away and they rested their foreheads against one another both breathing heavily. He moved his left hand from her neck to her hair, and ran his fingers through it.

“Am I breaking any rules?” He asked mockingly.

“No,” she replied and leaned forward meeting his lips. He gently massaged the soft skin behind her ear and held her head in place while kissing her. She let go of his shirt and ran her hands along his back, pulling him even closer to her. His body was warm and it made her shiver. She had been kissed before, but never like this.

However she was abruptly ripped from this world of pleasure when there was a loud pop and a soft scream.

Please leave me feedback (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?t=37082&page=1&pp=30) and let me know what you think!! :tu:

Chapter Seven: New Rules

George immediately whipped around and Abigail heard a door slam. She looked around wildly. It took her a minute to realize what had happened. Susan must have apparated into the apartment and seen them. George stared at Abigail for a moment. It was very clear he had been enjoying their snogging just as much as she had. She had to catch her breathe. It had been a long time since someone had apparated into the flat unexpectedly and it brought back all sorts of awful memories.

“Should I go?” George asked standing up. She nodded and stood beside him.

“Are you going to come tomorrow?” She asked in a rough voice that didn’t really sound like her own.

“Sure,” he replied with a nod and a smile.

“Come over here at 11.”

“Ok,” he leaned down and kissed her on the cheek then disapparated. She sat back down on the couch and took a few deep breaths. How was she going to deal with Susan? After a minute, she stood and knocked on Susan’s door. There was no response, but Abigail opened the door anyway.

“I’m so sorry,” said Susan looking up at her from her bed as Abigail entered the room. “I didn’t mean to – er- interrupt,” her face was bright red and Abigail couldn’t help but laugh.

“Don’t worry about it,” she replied, “we were only kissing.” Susan blushed more.

“This is your flat,” she said, “you should be able to do what you want.”

“Susan,” Abigail sat on the bed next to her cousin, “you live here too.” Susan looked at her for a moment. “I suppose now is as good a time as any to make some new rules?”

“No,” Susan nearly shouted, “Like I said, this is your flat.”

“You pay to live here too,”

“But you were here first and you were so nice to let me move in.”

“I think making some new rules would be a good for us.” She said smiling, in what she hoped was a reassuring way.

“No,” Susan replied, “I’ve already broken the old rules a hundred times each.”

“That’s why we should make new ones.” Susan opened her mouth to reply, but Abigail spoke before she could, “But we will keep the ‘no apparating inside the flat’ rule, ok?” Abigail observed her cousin sternly. She lied when she listed the reasons for this earlier. She didn’t want to upset Susan by bringing up the past. Susan blushed more.

“I’m sorry about that,” she replied, “I forgot-“

“A simple yes or no will suffice,” Abigail interrupted.

“Yes,” said Susan, “And I’ll try to remember.”

“It’s not that I want to make you live like a muggle,” Abigail tried to explain, “it’s just that if I had anyone other than George over, they would have a heart attack if you simply appeared out of thin air,” Abigail determinedly did not look Susan in the eyes when she said this. It was not the only reason.

“I know,” Susan replied, “I’m sorry.”

“You don’t need to keep apologizing,”

“I just feel so bad,” she looked down at the sheets on her bed, “I walked in on you and George-”

“Kissing,” Abigail finished, “that’s all.” She lifted Susan’s chin lightly with her hand. “How about,” she continued, “we make rules about boys?”

“What do you mean?”

“Since we’ve never had to deal with the issue of boyfriends before,” she said, “why don’t we make some rules about when they can be over and what we can do when they’re here.”

“You don’t have to-”

“I want to. It’ll make things easier for the both of us.” Abigail stood and went to Susan’s desk. She pulled out a piece of parchment, a quill, and ink and sat down on the chair. At the top off the parchment she wrote, Flat Rules. The under that she wrote, 1. No apparating into the apartment. “What should these rules be?” She asked looking at Susan.

“They were your idea,” said Susan, “you make them up.”

“You are driving me absolutely bonkers!” Abigail snapped harshly as she covered her face with her hands. She took a few deep breaths, and then slowly lowered her hands back to the desk. “Can you stop being so passive aggressive?”

“What?”

“Sometimes,” Abigail began, “you’re so aggressive with me that you remind me of my mother, and other times, like now, you’re so passive I don’t know what to do with you.” Susan looked as though Abigail had just slapped her in the face, “I realize,” she continued, “that you’re thankful for me letting you live here, but this is your flat too now. I’m tired of you walking around on eggshells around me. I’m not going to kick you out Susan. I’m not.” Susan sat on her bed for a moment just staring, her mouth agape, at Abigail.

“I remind you of your mother?” Was the first thing she said. Abigail was taken aback by this.

“Only sometimes,” she said quickly.

“I – I don’t – er-” she stuttered, “I don’t know what to say.” She ran her fingers through her hair.

“I just want us to decide on some rules,” Abigail sighed.

“I know,” Susan seemed to be coming back to her senses, “can I ask you a personal question?”

“We are cousins,” said Abigail.

“Have you er-” Susan paused, “What is mean is…” she paused again, “Are- are you a virgin?” She whispered this as though there were prying ears around to hear them. Abigail laughed.

“Yes,” she answered, “No, I’ve never had sex.” Susan looked relieved.

“I haven’t either,” she said quietly, “I just wasn’t sure, since you are two years older than I am.” Abigail smiled. “Do you plan on waiting until you’re married?” She asked tentatively. Abigail nodded and Susan actually smiled.

“That’s the plan anyway,” Abigail said.

“Should we set up rules then, so that we don’t put ourselves in that position?” It took a minute for Abigail to pick up on what she was saying.

“Oh,” she finally understood, “you mean the snogging on the couch leading to ...” Susan nodded hesitantly. “I actually came here so that George and I wouldn’t be a lone at his place,” she chuckled, “I thought you would be here.”

“Rule number two,” said Susan, “no being alone with a boy in the flat, at night.” Abigail began to write this down, but grinned when she came to the word, ‘boy’. “What?” Susan asked noticing her smile.

“I told George earlier how I used to have these rules when I was younger,” she explained, “and one of them was ‘don’t be a lone with a boy in a bedroom,’ and he said he’s not a boy.” Susan giggled and her face flushed slightly.

“Alright,” she said after a second, “substitute ‘boy’ for member of the opposite sex.” They both smiled and Abigail wrote this down. They continued thinking of rules and when they stopped the list looked like the following:

Flat Rules

1. No apparating into the apartment.
2. No being alone with a boy member of the opposite sex in the flat at night.
3. No kissing on any comfortable furniture, ex. couch, armchairs, etc.
4. No going into the bed room and closing the door.
5. No sitting/lying on the bed together for any reason.
6. No kissing for extremely long amounts of time.

It was getting late and they decided to leave the list until the next day after lunch at Abigail’s parent’s house.

“Oi,” said Susan as Abigail made her way to the door to leave.

“What?”

“I forgot. Your mum’s owl came back with a reply for you. You weren’t here so I took it from her. It’s over here,” she walked to her nightstand and produced the letter. “I read it,” she said sheepishly.

“That’s fine,” replied Abigail taking it from her and pulling the letter out of the envelope and reading.


Abigail,
I am glad you and Susan are coming for lunch tomorrow. Of course both of you can bring friends. I don’t mind at all. Tell Susan hello from me.
Mum

Abigail looked down at the letter in her hands. Her mother never was much of a writer.

“You don’t have to say hello to me,” said Susan. Abigail looked up and smiled at her.

“I’m glad she agreed to let George come. I already told him he could.”

“Same with Lucas,” said Susan.

“Did you see him today?” Abigail asked nonchalantly, trying desperately to hide the sorrow she knew her eyes would reveal.

“Yes,” Susan blushed.

“Did you have fun?” She nodded and Abigail smiled.

“I’m glad,” she began, “You need to have some fun after-”

“Don’t,” Susan interrupted angrily, “I’ve already told you I don’t want to talk about him.”

“It’s been two years Susan-”

“I don’t care,” she crossed her arms and Abigail distinctly saw her eyes water.

“Alright,” she said quietly, “I’m sorry, I’m going to bed.” Abigail left and went back to her room. She picked up her phone and dialed Jonathon’s number.

“Hello?” He answered. She could hear voices in the background.

“I’m home safe and sound,” she informed him. “I’ll see you Monday.”

“Ok,” he replied, “night.”

“Night,” she rang off, then set her alarm clock for 9 o’clock, changed into her pajamas and slipped between the soft sheets and blanket on her bed. It didn’t take very long for her to succumb to her exhaustion.



So what do you think? Great? Awful? I know this half of the chapter is shorter than usual but this is where I wanted to cut it off. Please let me know what you think of my fic ... over here ... in my feedback thread. (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?t=37082) :tu:

A/N: I know I haven't updated in a while and I apologize to my faithful readers. I went home for Christmas and New Years and my parent's computer hates me. So I've been unable to post. So I am posting this short chapter today and then tomorrow I'll post chapter 8 to make up for it.
Don't forget to let me know what you think (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?t=37082)!

“Where is she?” He screamed, towering over her threateningly. There was more then anger in his eyes.

“I don’t know,” Abigail said quietly trying to hide the fear in her voice, but failing miserably.

“Do not lie to me anymore Bones!”

“I’m not!” His eyes glinted dangerously and before she could defend herself he had slapped her across the face. Pain like she had rarely felt before stung her face and she felt her eyes water. She was not going to cry. She would not allow him that satisfaction. She had to lean on the wall behind her to keep from falling to the floor.

“I’m not!” She shouted again staring into his icy cold eyes, willing him to read her mind, to make him believe her. She was telling the truth. She had no idea where Susan was.

“I know you know!” He bellowed. “Tell me!” He pointed his wand at her chest and she gasped.

“You wouldn’t!” She pleaded but long before the words escaped her lips she knew it was hopeless.

“If you don’t tell me by the time I count to five, I will,” she looked into his eyes again but all the affection she knew was once there was gone. He stared at her as though she was noting more then a speck of dirt. A small problem he had to take care of. “One,” he began.

“I told you I don’t know!” She saw the fire light in his eyes. Much more then anger, was it fury?

“And I told you not to lie to me!”

“I’m not lying!” Her voice broke and she felt her eyes begin to sting, evidence of imminent tears.

“Do not cry Bones! I thought you were stronger then that!” He taunted her.

“I wouldn’t cry over you!” she spat her anger overcoming her fear. She saw his entire body tense. Then he raised his wand and pointed it at her and she could do nothing to block the pain she knew was coming, “Crucio!”

Abigail woke with a start, her heart was pounding rapidly and she instinctively reached up to her cheek and touched the place where he had struck her so long ago. It didn’t hurt in the least. Then suddenly, for reasons she knew not, tears came spilling out of her eyes and before she knew it, she was sobbing into her hands as they covered her face. All the questions she had been asking herself for years came flooding back to her. Why had she trusted him? Why hadn’t she listened to Susan? Why had she not been better prepared? Why was she at home alone at night when she knew he was after her? Then the blame hit her full force like a swift jab to the stomach, winding her. It was all her fault, all of it was entirely her fault. She lay back down on her pillow and pulled her covers up over her head breathing heavily. If she didn’t calm down she was going to hyperventilate. She didn’t want to think anymore at all. She just wanted to sleep and that is precisely what happened as she dropped back off into the world of her dreams.


George was right on time the next morning, apparating into the living room at precisely 11 o’clock. Abigail screamed and nearly jumped out of skin at the sound of his apparition.

“Abby,” she immediately calmed down at the sound of George’s voice. She came out of her bed room fully dressed in wizard robes. She smiled sheepishly at him and walked over. He looked better in muggle clothes, she decided. Robes hid his body too well.

“Morning,” said George.

“Morning,” Abigail replied. “What is that?” She noticed he was holding a wrapped box.

“I bought your mum some Honeydukes chocolate. She likes it doesn’t she?”

“She loves it,” Abigail grinned, “But you didn’t have to buy her anything, this is a casual lunch.”

“I just wanted to make a good first impression.” She nodded, “How are we going to get there?”

“I am using the floo network,” she gestured toward the fireplace at the far end of the flat. “I assumed you would want to apparate.”

“You’ll be all dirty when you get there,” he replied.

“It’s all right,” she said. There was a knock on the front door and Abigail opened it slowly. She smiled when she saw the wizard standing outside and opened it further.

“You must be Lucas,” she said extending her hand.

“Yes,” he replied.

“I’m Abby.” He smiled and stepped inside the flat.

“I’m George,” said George also shaking Lucas’ hand.

“I’ll go and get Susan,” Abigail said and slipped into Susan’s room. “Lucas is here.” She knocked on the closed bathroom door.

They returned to the living room a minute later.

“Are you sure you want to floo there a lone?” George asked looking down at Abigail.

“I’ve done it before,” she said with a reassuring smile.

“Alright,” he replied. George walked over to the fireplace and lit a fire in the grate with his wand. Abigail took some floo power out of a small red clay pot on the mantle. She threw the powder into the fire and it burned green. George kissed her on the top of her head then she stepped into the flames.

“Bones manor,” she said very clearly and they disappeared from sight. She closed her eyes tightly to keep the soot out of them. And she tucked her elbows close to her body as she spun around. This was definitely not one of her more favorite modes of transportation. She opened her eyes as she felt the spinning stop and put out her hands right in time to keep herself from falling on her face. She stood and began brushing herself off. Susan came through the kitchen door first, followed by George, then Lucas. George smiled and walked over to her.

“You’re covered in soot,” he said gently wiping her cheek.

“Not my favorite way to travel,” she joked.

“There you are!” Abigail heard her mother shriek. She looked up in time to see her mother pull Susan into a hug. Her heart sank a little. She hated feeling jealous of her mother’s affections toward Susan.

“Hello Aunt Janine,” Susan said pulling out of the hug, “This is Lucas.” Mrs. Bones released Susan and turned around to face Lucas. Abigail felt anger rising in her now. She couldn’t even greet her own daughter? She brushed more dirt off her as her mother greeted Lucas. Then Mrs. Bones turned to George.

“That means you’re George,” she said smiling at him.

“Yes,” he replied handing her the box. Her eyes lit up and without even a glance at Abigail, she took the box to kitchen counter and unwrapped it. She gasped when she saw the box of chocolates.

“I love Honeydukes!” She exclaimed and George beamed. Abigail cleared her throat.

“Oh, Abigail,” her mother finally acknowledged her. She walked over and Abigail thought she was going to hug her. “I hate when you travel by floo. You always get so dirty.” Abigail’s stomach plummeted as her mother wiped the soot from her robes.

“Thanks,” she muttered under her breath.

“Well, your father and Karen are in the living room,” Mrs. Bones said, “I don’t think it’s a good idea to keep them waiting.”

“Karen?” Both Susan and Abigail said this at the same time.

“Yes,” replied Mrs. Bones, “we can’t have a family lunch without inviting Karen.” Abigail stared at her mother for a moment then glanced at Susan. She had a more horrified expression on her face.

“Mum,” said Abigail slowly, “tell me I misheard you. Please, tell me you did not just say Karen Bones is in the living room.” Her mother stared back at her.

“You heard me,” she said sternly, “now come into the living room and greet her.” She turned and left the kitchen. Abigail and Susan stared at one another. Then Abigail turned resolutely back to fire and reached for the familiar pot that held the floo powder.

“What are you doing?” George asked picking up the pot before Abigail got to it.

“I’m going home,” Abigail said, “now give me that floo powder.”

“No,” he replied, “not until you tell me what is going on.” Susan plunked down in a chair at the kitchen table.

“Karen is my half-sister,” Susan whispered.

“What?” George furrowed his brow.

“I thought you were an only child,” this was the first thing Lucas said since they arrived.

“I am,” replied Susan. She looked close to tears. “My mum was my dad’s second wife,” she explained, “and he had a daughter with his first wife-”

“Karen,” Abigail interjected.

“Then they split up and my dad and mum got married and a few years later had me.” Lucas sat down next to her at the table. George still looked confused.

“Well,” Abigail continued the story, “Karen’s mum is a muggle and when she found out Karen was a witch, my parents took pity on her. She couldn’t afford to pay for Karen to Hogwarts, so my parents paid for it.”

“She went to Hogwarts?” George asked.

“Yes, she’s five years older then you and me.”

“So that’s why you don’t like her then?” George asked incredulously, “She took your parents money and went to Hogwarts?”

“No!” she spat at him. “Do you think I’m that shallow?” He looked at her for a moment.

“No,” he said softly, “of course not.”

“We don’t like her because she is a right ungrateful little prat,” said Susan quietly, “wait until you meet her.” She scoffed.

“What are you doing in here?” Abigail nearly jumped out of her skin at the sound of her mother’s voice. “Get out here.” Susan and Lucas stood and followed Mrs. Bones. Abigail made to follow, but George took her hand and held her back.

“Are you alright?” He asked. She sighed and looked around the once familiar kitchen, avoiding his eyes. He placed his hands gently on her hips and pulled her closer to him.

“I’m fine,” she could feel tears welling up in the back of her eyes. “I’ll admit I expected a bit of a warmer welcome from mum.”

“I noticed,” he replied.

“I told you she’s ashamed of me.” She looked down at the floor. He lifted her chin so that she was looking into his eyes.

“I’m not ashamed of you,” he whispered. She smiled and he bent down and pecked her sweetly on the lips.

“We should go into the living room before she comes back,” She said and turned around. He took her left hand in his right and she led him from the kitchen, through the dining room, and into the living room where everyone else was.


Ok so I know it's short but let me know what you think right here (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?t=37082)! :tu:

A/N: Here it is, as I promised. The first part of chapter 8. I hope you enjoy it and please give me feedback (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?t=37082)!

Chapter Eight: Karen Bones

Abigail led George to the couch where her father was seated on the left of her mother. He smiled when she approached.

“Abby,” he said sweetly, “I was wondering if you were ever going to come in here.” She bent down and he embraced her in the fatherly hug she had missed very much. More tears threatened to pour from her eyes.

“Hi dad,” she said softly, “This is George.”

“Hello,” said Mr. Bones shaking George’s hand.

“Hello,” repeated George.

“I know your father, Arthur,” Mr. Bones continued, “he was at Hogwarts when I was a first year.”

“I’ll have to tell him that I met you.” George replied. Karen cleared her throat delicately from the chair behind Abigail. Abigail forced herself to turn around and face Karen.

“Hello Abigail,” said Karen in an overly sweet voice.

“Hello Karen,” said Abigail trying to smile. “This is George.”

“How do you do,” said George shaking Karen’s

“How do you do,” Karen repeated smiling. Abigail wanted to be sick.

“Why don’t you sit down?” Mrs. Bones insisted. George and Abigail sat on the couch, George was on the end, closest to Karen, and Abigail sat between him and her father. George put his arm around her producing a calming feeling in her.

“Lucas,” said Mr. Bones after Abigail and George had settled. “What do you do for a living?”

“I work at the ministry sir,” replied Lucas promptly, “In the Department of Magical Accidents and Catastrophes.” Mr. Bones nodded.

“Hang on,” said George. He had a dawning look of comprehension on his face. “Do you have an older sister named Penny?”

“Yes,” said Lucas, “I believe she’s dating your brother –er-” He seemed to have forgotten his name.

“Percy,” said George helpfully.

“Yes, that’s it, Percy.” They smiled at one another and there was silence. “Do you mind if I ask what you do Karen?” Lucas apparently talked more when he was nervous. Abigail looked around the living room. She hadn’t been home in over six months and it hadn’t changed one bit.

“I work for Gringotts bank,” Karen replied pompously, as though this was the best job anyone could possibly have.

“My brother Bill work for Gringotts,” said George proudly, “Except not here in London. He works on the tombs in Egypt. He worked at the one here in London during the second war, but now it’s over, he went back to Egypt.” Abigail looked at Karen. She seemed very upset that George had just taken the glory out of her working for Gringotts. She turned and beamed up at George.

“Does your father still work for the ministry?” Mr. Bones asked.

“Yeah, he loves muggles too much to give up his job.” They chuckled at this, but Abigail had no idea why.

“Susan, why don’t you tell us about your job?” Mrs. Bones said politely.

“It’s not at all interesting Aunt Janine.”

“I’m sure it is,” she replied.

“I’m sure it’s not,” said Karen quietly while looking at her nails. Abigail wasn’t sure if Susan heard Karen’s words, but she didn’t want to wait to find out.

“Well school is going wonderfully,” she said loudly.

“What do you mean school?” Lucas asked staring at her.

“I mean what I said,” she replied sweetly. Lucas still looked confused.

“Abby here,” Karen said loudly, “is a squib Lucas, didn’t you know? She goes to a muggle school.”

“No, I didn’t know that,” he said quietly looking at the rug, apparently embarrassed.

“Yes,” said Abigail, “I thought Susan told you.”

“I wasn’t sure if you wanted me to,” murmured Susan.

“I don’t care who knows,” Abigail said. She wasn’t sure if this was true or not.

“We I do” said Mrs. Bones angrily, “and I’d appreciate it if you didn’t parade it around.”

“He was going to find out sooner or later,” Abigail said defensively.

“Maybe,” Mrs. Bones replied, “you don’t have to flat out tell him.”

“I flat out told George when I met him.” Abigail felt George tense next to her at the sound of his name.

“I think you should be more careful who-” Susan stood up quite suddenly.

“Is lunch ready yet Aunt Janine? I’m starving.” Mrs. Bones smiled sweetly at Susan and stood.

“Yes,” she replied, “let’s go into the dining room.” Everyone stood and followed Mrs. Bones into the dining room; everyone except George and Abigail. They both stayed seated on the couch. Abigail was angry and trying to control her breathing.

“Should we go eat?” George finally asked. Abigail shook her head ‘no’.

“I hate being here,” she said after a silent minute. George rubbed her arm comfortingly. “I’m sorry if you’re having an awful time. I shouldn’t have asked you to come.”

“Hey,” he replied quietly, “any time spent with you is a great time.” She beamed up at him. “Besides,” he chuckled, “just wait until you meet my family.” He rolled his eyes. She decidedly stood from the couch. George followed and taking his hand, she led him into the dining room. Abigail sat at the round table on the left of Susan and George took the empty seat on Abigail’s left. A minute later Mrs. Bones came from the kitchen levitating the food and lowering it onto the table. They ate in a very uncomfortable silence. Abigail was used to this kind of silence at the dining table, she grew up with it. George was apparently not. He kept opening his mouth as though going to say something, then closing it and gently shaking his head. After she finished eating, Abigail gently put her hand on George’s knee under the table. He was done also and both of his hands were folded in his lap. He reached over and flipped her hand so that her palm was facing up, then slipped his hand around hers. Their fingers intertwined and Abigail barely kept from smiling. She didn’t want to draw any unnecessary attention to them. After everyone else was finished they sat for a few moments staring at one another. It was blatantly obvious that her mother was still angry from their confrontation earlier.

“Do you mind if I give George a tour of the house?” Abigail asked while pushing away from the table. She didn’t care if her mother said no. She was going to either way.

“Sure,” said Mr. Bones smiling, “I’m sure George would like that.” George stood next to Abigail and began picking up his plate.

“We have a house elf to do that,” said Mrs. Bones, “you can leave it there.” He glanced uncertainly at Abigail then put his plates back on the table.

“Are you sure?” He asked.

“Quite,” Mrs. Bones replied. “Go on your tour.” Abigail reached for his hand and led him out of the room.

“You’ve already seen the kitchen,” she said passing through the kitchen and walking out into the foyer.

“We came in this way,” George said pointing to the front door behind them.

“Right,” Abigail smiled. “Second floor then,” there were stairs off to their left and she climbed them quickly. Once on the second landing, she led him over to the entrance to her father’s study.

“This is dad’s study,” she said opening the door and stepping inside. George looked around the room.

“That’s a lot of books,” George said quietly. She smiled. Yes. It was a lot of books. In fact the walls were completely lined with bookshelves, all covered with books.

“Come on,” she said walking out of the room. George closed the door as they walked down the hall.

“Abby,” her father’s voice made her stop in her tracks and turn to face him. He smiled brightly at her.

“Yes dad?” For some reason she dropped George’s hand.

“May I talk to you for a moment alone?” She turned to George. She saw for an instant a confused expression on his face. It was wiped away and replaced by a grin a second later, making her think she had imagined it.

“Do you mind?” She asked.

“No,” he replied, “I can wait here.” She kissed him on the cheek. Then followed her father into his study, the room they had just come out of.

“How are you doing?” Mr. Bones asked once the door was closed.

“I’m fine,” she replied instinctively. After all, no one really wanted to know how you were truly doing when they asked this question. He regarded her with a piercing look that only her father could give her.

“Are you certain?” He asked while leaning slightly on the edge of his desk. She shrugged her shoulders but did not look up at him. “George seems nice,” he said, “a lot nicer then the last time I saw him and his brother,” he added with a smirk, “I believe they were barely 3-” suddenly the smile was gone and replaced with a shocked look. Like he had allowed something to slip that he shouldn’t have.

“Are you alright?” Abigail asked cautiously. He waved a hand dismissively.

“I’m perfectly fine,” he said, “it’s you I am worried about.”

“Why are you worried about me?”

“You haven’t written to me in well over a month, you haven’t been in this house in Merlin knows how long.”

“I know,” she replied guiltily, “I’m sorry.” His smile returned.

“You don’t need to apologize. Just explain what is going on.” She walked away from him and turned instead to the fireplace. There were pictures of her and her mother on the mantle and a little further down pictures of her father, Christina, Susan’s mother, Amelia and Edgar when they were young. Edgar’s face jumped out at her, like never before. He suddenly seemed so familiar to her.

“Dad,” she said picking up the picture ignoring all the others.

“Yes?” He asked walking over to her and placing a strong hand on her shoulder.

“How long has this picture been here?” She heard her father sigh.

“Since before you were born,” he said.

“I don’t think I’ve ever noticed it before.”

“You haven’t spent much time in here.” She turned to face him.

“Did I know him?” she asked cautiously, “as a child I mean. Did I spend a lot of time with him?” She looked into his eyes and saw pain. It must have been so difficult to talk about his dead brother to her.

“Why do you ask?” He replied.

“I don’t know,” she said honestly, “he seems familiar to me.”

“You did spend some time with him as a child,” he took the picture from her hand gently and replaced it on the mantle. “I don’t really want to talk about it.” He cleared his throat.

“I understand,” she said quietly. “I have been a little overwhelmed with school dad, but nothing I can’t handle.

“You don’t seem like yourself,” he replied, “are you staying up late studying?” Should she tell him about her dreams? They were just dreams after all. Maybe he could help her sort them out.

“No,” she said quietly, “but I haven’t been sleeping well either.” He looked at her quizzically.

“What’s the matter?”

“Well, I’ve been having those nightmares again,” she said.

“The ones about Justin?” She nodded solemnly. “How long have they been going on for?”

“A little more then a week or so,” she said, “but they’re not the only ones. I’m having other dreams now too.” She watched his eyes get large with worry.

“What are they about?” He asked.

“I don’t know,” she said thoughtfully, “I know that I’m young and I’m scared. They are Death Eaters in these dreams and people are running and screaming-” she stopped at the look on his face. Absolute horror filled his eyes. “Do you know what I’m dreaming about?” She asked suddenly.

He stared at her for a moment with a look of deep thought upon his face. Now was the perfect opportunity to tell her the truth but could he do it?

Please please lat me know what you think by posting here in my feedback thread (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?t=37082). :tu:

A/N: Today I've discovered that I am the stupidest person a live. For some unknown reason I forgot that I was posting these chapters in halves. So I've had this part on my computer since I posted the first half and completely forgot about it. I was waiting for my beta to send it to me - too bad I already had it! PLEASE forgive me for the delay in posting. I cannot believe how silly I am. Oh and leave please me feedback (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?t=37082). :tu:

Chapter Eight: Karen Bones (Part II)

Kenneth Bones stared at his only daughter for a long moment in silence. No-
he shook his head slowly - he could't tell her - not like this. He would tell her when she was older he decided - she didn't need to know just yet.

“I don’t like to see you in pain, that’s all,” he said without meeting her eyes, “I can imagine these dreams a frightening?”

“Very,” she replied quietly. Should he know about the woman? He was her father after all. “There’s this woman,” she whispered, “and she’s screaming.” He stood up suddenly and turned his back to her.

“I’m sorry,” he said overcome with emotion, “I can’t hear anymore.”

“It is just a dream I’m having isn’t it dad?” He nodded.

“Have you had it more than once?”

“Twice now,”

He then turned to face her. “I’m sure it’s just a dream,” he said but something in his eyes made her doubt him. What did he know that he was hiding from her? He suddenly smiled but it didn't quite reach his eyes.

“I – er- if you’re sure,” she stuttered.

“Anything else you want to talk about?”

“No,” she turned to the door and walked out into the hall where George was waiting.

“Don’t leave without saying goodbye,” he said and slowly made his way down stairs. The look he had in his eyes when she talked about the woman unnerved her. He was definitely hiding something. George walked over cautiously. The site of him pulled her from her thoughts. She smiled up at him.

“Are you alright?” He asked. She nodded but for the second time in two days, for reasons she knew not, tears started spilling out of her eyes. George immediately pulled her in his arms as she began to cry. He walked backwards pulling her, as he went, back into her father's study and closed the door. She hadn’t been in this room in well over six months and that day she had been in it three times. As hard as she tried she was unable to stop the tears pouring from her eyes. This time, however she had someone strong to hold her as she cried. George didn’t say anything as he held Abigail in his arms, close against his chest, and let her cry. She was grateful - she didn’t want him to ask because she didn’t know the answer.

After a few minutes, maybe, she wasn’t really sure, she finally ran out of tears to cry. She looked up at George, certain she looked absolutely awful.

“I was wondering if I was going to have to conjure up some life preservers,” he joked. Abigail allowed herself to smile. He pulled away from her slightly and sank into the chair behind him. Then he pulled her down gently so she was sitting on his lap. He wrapped his arms around her waist and she leaned back against him enjoying the quiet of the moment.

“I’m sorry,” she sighed. “You’re probably having such an awful-“

“That’s the second time you’ve apologized to me today,” he interrupted. “I’ve already told you any time spent with you is a great time.” She turned slightly and kissed him on the cheek. “I think I’m having a bad influence on you,” he quipped.

“I agree,” she replied and pecked him on the lips. His eyes brightened considerably and he cupped her face in his hands.

“I don’t like to see you cry,” he said softly and he kissed her cheek just under her right eye.

“It’s not as though I enjoy it either,” she replied as he kissed her other cheek. He chuckled gently and kissed her lips softly. There was a soft knock on the door at that moment. George growled angrily.

“Abby,” she heard Susan’s voice, “Are you still in there?”

“Doesn’t she ever leave you alone?” George huffed. Abigail sighed, then stood slowly and walked over to the door. She opened it to see both Susan and Lucas standing on the other side.

“Are you alright?” Susan had concern etched all over her face.

“I’m fine,” replied Abigail, “why?”

“You look like you’ve been crying,” said Susan, pushing the door open a little further. It then dawned on Abigail the reason she was in her father’s study. She had been crying and George comforted her.

“It was nothing,” she replied quickly, “you know me.” She smiled at Susan and she felt George wrap his arms around her stomach and rest his head on her right shoulder.

“Right,” said Susan looking between them. “I only came to find you to let you know we are leaving.”

“Why?” George asked.

“Karen is absolutely insufferable and if I have to listen to one more word-”

“Oh here you are,” Karen’s voice cut through Susan’s like a sword. Susan and Lucas turned abruptly to see Karen standing at the top of the stairs. “I’ve been looking for you Abigail.” Abigail smiled at her half-cousin.

“What did you want?” She asked trying desperately to keep her voice even. She felt George straighten up release his grip on her stomach.

“I wanted to catch up of course,” Karen responded pleasantly, “I haven’t seen you in nearly a year.”

“Excuse us,” said Susan softly, “we were just leaving.” George took Abigail’s hand that was dangling at her side.

“No stay,” said Karen, “I haven’t seen you in so long Susan.”

“Mum and dad are down stairs Karen,” said Abigail icily, she couldn’t help herself. “You don’t have to pretend for our sake.”

“Who’s pretending?” Karen actually sounded upset and had Abigail not known her she would have thought she was sincere. “I am very interested in hearing about your life recently.”

“No you’re not,” replied Susan angrily, “You’re only nice to us in front of Aunt Janine and Uncle Ken so you don’t have to pay them back for everything they’ve given you.” Karen clutched her chest and Abigail saw her eyes water.

“That hurts,” she whispered, “Susan we are sisters-”

“You are not my sister,” shot Susan as her hand reached for her wand. Abigail knew Susan wouldn’t ever really hex Karen.

“And what Abigail is?” Karen scoffed in her natural tone they knew so well. It was like listening to an entirely different person. “She’s not even a witch.” George held Abigail’s hand tightly. Susan whipped out her wand but Karen did not.

“Do not insult Abby!” Susan shouted, “She’s a better person then you’ll ever be!”

“Susan,” said George firmly, “You don’t want to do something you’d regret.”

“Yes Susan,” said Karen all the venom Abigail knew to be there had finally revealed itself, “be a good little girl. You would most definitely regret hexing me.” Susan drew herself to her full height.

“Want to bet?” She threatened.

“You don’t have to guts,” said Karen icily, “I know what you did that night. You stood there and watched everyone else fight. You probably could have saved-” Abigail suddenly wrenched her hand from George and with a force she didn’t know she had and punched Karen as hard as she could before Karen even knew it was coming. The resounding sound made all the gasps completely inaudible. Karen fell to the floor, holding her face in her hand.

“Don’t you talk about that night ever again!” Abigail screeched as anger she hadn’t felt in a very long time coerced through her body. Had her tear ducts not been sapped dry earlier, she knew angry tears would be pouring down her cheeks. She stared down at Karen with hatred she only felt for one other living soul. “You have no right!” She continued screeching. “You weren’t there! You don’t have any idea-” suddenly she felt arms around her and before she could process what was happening, she was being lifted over George’s shoulder and carried down stairs. “Let go of me!” She screamed, struggling as hard as she could. George did not let go of her however he simply carried her to the bottom of the stairs.

“What is going on?” She heard her mother’s voice.

“We had a wonderful time Mrs. Bones,” George stopped walking but Abigail didn’t care what he was saying to her mother. She had to get back upstairs and hurt Karen.

“But I don’t under-” Mrs. Bones began.

“Let me go George!” Abigail screamed.

“Susan is upstairs, I’m sure she can explain,” he interrupted, “we’re going to leave.”

“We’re not leaving until I say we are!” Abigail screeched but George ignored her. He carried her into the kitchen, threw some floo power into the fire and put her down. She immediately tried to run back up stairs, but he held his arms around her and pulled her into the fire with him.

“The Lair” he bellowed and Abigail pulled her eyes shut. George pulled her very close to himself and was the only reason she remained upright when the spinning stopped. He pulled her out of the fire place.

“I have to get back there!” she screamed, “I’m going to kill that stupid bloody-” George covered her mouth with his hand.

“Stop,” he said, “just calm down.” She glared at him and struggled harder. “I’m not letting go of you until you calm down,” he said, a firm hand covering her lips. She knew it was hopeless to struggle any longer. Even if she could floo back to her parent’s house, Karen would probably be gone by now. She hoped she had hurt her badly. She sighed and sank slowly onto the couch behind her. George let go of her but eyed her suspiciously.

“Alright,” Abigail said, grateful she could now speak. “I’m calm.” George stood in front of her staring down at her.

“Are you sure?” He asked.

“As calm as I am going to be at this time,” she replied. “I promise not to have another outburst.” She pulled her arms across her chest angrily.

“Now do you mind telling me what the bloody hell was going on?” Abigail winced. She did not like the anger in his tone. “One minute you’re crying for no reason and the next you punch Karen in the face.” Abigail felt her anger rising but purposefully kept in under control.

“Don’t shout at me,” she said sternly, “it does nothing to keep my temper down.” George sighed and sat down on the couch next to her. She turned to face him.

“I wasn’t shouting,” He huffed. Abigail closed her eyes. “What did she say?” He asked. She opened them again and stared at him for a moment trying to decipher if she wanted to talk about it.

“What?” She asked.

“What did Karen say to provoke you?”

“You heard her.”

“Yes, but it made no sense to me. Lucas seemed just as clueless as I felt, but Susan looked horrified. I thought she might have actually hexed Karen had you not gotten to her first.”

“I’m glad I stopped Susan then,” Abigail purposefully tried to avoid his question, “I’m certain she would have hexed her.”

“Why?”

“It’s a very long story,” George pointedly looked at his watch.

“I’ve got time,” he said. She sighed and closed her eyes again.

“I don’t want to talk about it George,” she replied after a moment deciding that this was the truth. She didn’t want to have to relive that night for him.

“I think you need to,” he replied, “if you’d go and strike her because she mentioned something-”

“She did not simply mention something George,” Abigail spat at him ripping her eyes open to glare at him, “she knew exactly how hurtful she was being.”

“See what I mean?” He replied pointing at her, “you’re blowing up at me for asking a simple question.”

“It is not a simple question!” She could not control her anger any longer.

“Just tell me what she was talking about.”

“She was talking about the worst night of my entire life!” Abigail instinctively pulled her hands to her mouth. She didn’t want to talk about this. She didn’t have to energy to. George gave her a piercing gaze.

“What do you mean?” She shook her head, not trusting herself to speak. She was not going to talk about this. Not with him. He didn’t really want to know anyway. He only thought he wanted to know. This was the very core of things nightmares were made of it. It was too awful to talk about. He lowered her hand from her mouth. “What do you mean?” He repeated, holding both of her hands now in both of his.

“Ow!” She cried suddenly, feeling the pain in her hand for the first time. They both looked down and she realized her hand was slightly bleeding and already turning color.

“Are you alright?” He asked.

“I’m fine,” she whispered though her hand was throbbing.

“Tell me what Karen meant,” he said. She shook her head again and pursed her lips.

“I can’t,” she finally whispered. Her eyes burned she knew she needed to cry, but she was still dry.

“Please,” he begged, “I want to understand.”


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Chapter Nine: Love?

“Maybe later,” Abigail stood from the couch and walked into the kitchen. George followed.

“What do you need?” He asked walking to the fridge.

“Water,” she replied, “my throat hurts.”

“Well with all the screaming you did,” he smiled.

“Can we talk about something else?” She pierced him with a pleading gaze.

“Sure,” he paused thoughtfully and then looked at her hand. “Maybe you should wash that.” He got a cup from the cupboard and filled it with ice while Abigail washed her hands in the sink. She dried her hands on a towel while he filled her glass with water. She sat down at the kitchen table. He set her glass of water in front of her then took the seat next to her.

“Thanks,” she mumbled.

“No problem,” he replied. They sat in silence for a few minutes. Abigail was in deep thought about what had just happened. She knew Karen was pure evil but you say what she did was a new low blow. “What house was Karen in?” George’s voice brought her from her thoughts.

“Guess,” Abigail replied.

“Obviously not Gryffindor or I would have known,” he said. She nodded. “Don’t tell me Slytherin,” he said with disgust.

“No, she’s not a pure blood,” Abigail replied, “though she is evil enough.”

“Hufflepuff?” he s******ed. She nodded. “How do you know so much about a school you didn’t go to?”

“I was raised in the wizarding world George,” she replied, “I hear things.” It was his turn to nod, “and Susan talks about it a lot.”
Susan nearly jumped out of her seat when the front doorbell resounded through the quiet kitchen. George chuckled at her as he left her in the kitchen and went to the front door.

“Remus!” George practically shouted with surprise, “What are you doing here?”

“Can I come in?” A weary sounding voice asked.

“Sure,” George replied and Abigail heard the front door close.

“Are you alone?” The mysterious man asked.

“No,” George replied. She heard them walk through the living room and come into the kitchen. “Abby,” George said. She turned to face the two men. “This is Remus Lupin,” Abigail’s eyes widened with fear. She knew that name, he was a werewolf. How did George know a werewolf? He taught at Hogwarts, she knew that but was it customary for professors to stop by their former pupil’s houses?

She stared at him for a moment. He didn’t look anything like she would expect a werewolf to look like. He was skinny and appeared to be exhausted. “Remus, this is Abby Bones.” Remus nodded at her uneasily.

“I can see in your eyes you know what I am,” he said softly.

“I’m sorry,” she replied, “I shouldn’t gape at you.”

“It’s quite alright,” he replied, “I am used to it.” George looked between them.

“How do you know?” He asked Abigail.

“His name has been all over the place,” she replied, “and I must admit I’ve always been a little afraid of werewolves.” She smiled sheepishly while Remus simply smiled.

“The full moon was Thursday night,” he replied.

“Did you need something?” George asked, “Or was this just a friendly visit?”

“Oh,” Remus smiled. “I was at your parent’s house last night having dinner and they wanted me to ask what your plans are for Halloween without letting you know it was them who wanted to know.”

George grinned. “You’re not very good at being secretive then.”

“I know,” Remus sighed. “I told them I hate to lie to you boys. But they figured you were more likely to tell me then one of them and they couldn’t bribe Ron or Ginny into it.”

“I’m not sure what my plans are,” he glanced at Abigail then looked back to Remus. “What are you doing?”

“I don’t have any plans yet,” Remus replied, “Your mother said something about the ministry party, but I doubt I would be welcome there.”

“Well,” George replied, “You’re welcome to tell them that I do not have any plans as of yet.”

“Alright,” Remus replied. “I will.” George smiled and walked to the refrigerator.

“Do you want anything to drink?”

“Butterbeer if you have it,” Remus replied. He sat across from Abigail at the table. “I’ve never seen you before,” he said smiling at her. “You weren’t at Hogwarts while I was teaching there,” he stated confidently, “and you certainly can’t be older than George.”

“No,” she smiled, “I didn’t attend Hogwarts and George and I are the same age.” George walked back over and handed Remus a butterbeer, then sat next to Abigail. “And you’re not at all what I expected a werewolf to be like.”

“Yes,” he said quietly, “We’re not all that different from normal witches and wizards. Do you mind me asking where you went to school if you didn’t go to Hogwarts?”

“I’m not a witch,” she replied taking a sip of her butterbeer. The older wizard set his down and stared at her.

“You can’t be a muggle,” he whispered as though it were the most horrible thing.

“No,” she said quickly while shaking her head, “I’m a squib,”

“I never would have guessed,” he said softly while still staring at her.

“Not may people do.”

“I can’t same I know many squibs,” he replied.

“Nor can I about werewolves.”

“Then we have something in common,” his face lit up into a grin.

“What are your plans for dinner?” George asked.

Remus looked over at him. “I can’t stay for that long,” he replied, “but thank you for the offer.” George nodded and smiled. “How is your shop doing?”

“It’s doing wonderfully,” George replied, “Fred and I are working on a new product right now actually,” he smiled playfully, “when we get if developed further, you’ll be the first to know.”

“Good,” he smiled, “I should like to see what you’re coming up with.”


Remus dissapparated about ten minutes later, leaving Abigail and George staring at one another in the kitchen.

“I should probably go too,” she said softly as she stood and left the kitchen. George followed her to the front door.

“Are you sure you want to go?” He asked reaching the door before she opened it standing in between her and the exit.

“I have homework,” she smiled up at him. He reached out and pulled her close to him enveloping her in a hug.

“Can’t you just stay for a little while longer?” He asked softly.

“If I didn’t know better,” she replied, “I would say you’re becoming attached.” She looked up at him as he stared down at her with an amused expression on his face. He bent down and kissed her lightly on the lips.

“I could say the same about you,” he quipped, “you’ve been to my house three days in a row.” They stared at one another for a moment neither wanting to pull away from the other. “Fred, Lee, and I are throwing a Halloween party next weekend.”

“I thought you didn’t have any plans for Halloween.”

“I don’t,” he gave her a mischievous grin, “Halloween is on the following Wednesday. Do you want to come to the party? It’s next Saturday night.” She pretended to think about this for a moment.

“I don’t know,” she replied, “I’ve already spent two weekends in a row with you.”

“Well think about it and let me know.” His grin spread wider across his face. She knew he was making fun of her. She pulled away from him slightly and he moaned.

“Stay,” he begged.

“I can’t, I have homework.”

“It can wait.”

“No, I really-”he silenced her with a sweet kiss. She felt her knees weaken and was consumed by the warmth that filled her body. She reluctantly pulled away from him. “I have to go,” she said trying to sound forceful but failing miserably.

“Just stay for a little bit,” she moved around him to the door and opened it.

“You are becoming far too forward George Weasley,” she grinned at him and stepped outside.

“You know you like it,” he teased.

“You’re right,” she chuckled and started down the steps.

“I’ll walk you to your car,” he followed her.

“You don’t have to.”

“I want to,” he took her hand in his as they walked down the sidewalk to her car.

“I still don’t want you to go.” He whined, “I don’t want to wait until next weekend to see you again.”

“We can owl one another.”

“Are you really sure you want to go?” He asked with a playful smile.

“Yes,” she answered, “I’m already at my car, I’m going.” She turned and unlocked her car and got in. George bent down to the window as she rolled it down. She started the car and he reached his head inside her window and kissed her quickly.

“Fire-call me when you get there.”

“Ok,” she agreed then pulled out onto the road and drove back toward her flat.

Later that night Abigail lay still in her bed, while her mind was racing.

It was quiet. Too quiet. Looking through the cracks above her, she could not make out the figures on the floor. Yet she could tell they weren’t moving. Their chests were not rising or falling and they were not making a sound. The men in the black cloaks with masks over their faces had disappeared not too long ago and Abigail was in this small hole under the kitchen, unable to get out. She felt trapped and scared. She’d never been this scared before. Her sobs were the only sound throughout the entire house. She knew she was alone and she was frightened for her life. It was so deafening silent she couldn’t take it any longer. She crawled away from the cracks and began to bang on the floor above her. There was a door there somewhere, she just knew it. Someone had to be there. Where were her parents? She wanted her daddy. Where was her daddy? Why hadn’t he come back for her? Why had he left her alone in this place? She was tired and scared. She wanted her mummy. Where was her mummy?

“Hello,” a woman’s voice called through the silent house. Abigail screamed from fright then crawled back over to the cracks and looked through. “Oh my!” A tall, pretty, woman with light brown hair gasped as she entered the kitchen. Abigail did not recognize this woman at all but she felt strangely calmed by her presence. “Alastor!” The woman screamed suddenly, “Get in here quickly!” Crawling quickly back to what Abigail hoped was the door she began to bang again. She heard more footsteps in the room, it sounded to be about four other people, all of whom Abigail heard gasp.

“Shhh!” Someone silenced the room.

“Help me!” She cried in between sobs. “Daddy!”

“Do you hear that?” A deep rough voice asked. Abigail banged harder.

“Help me!” she cried. “Mummy!”

“It’s coming from over here,” a different woman exclaimed as her foot steps grew closer and louder. “Look!” Blinding light filled Abigail’s eyes and she could not see who pulled her from her hiding place.

“Oh my,” the first woman said again, “It’s Abigail.” Someone was holding her in their arms but her eyes hurt too much to see who.

“Mummy?” she sobbed, “Where’s my daddy?”

Abigail woke with a start. She was drenched in cold sweat and momentarily disorientated. She reached over and flipped on the light on her bed side table. What was going on? That was the third time she’d dreamed the same dream. Well, they weren’t exactly the same but they were about the same thing. And this one she remembered more than the others.

She threw the covers off her and jumped out of bed. Deftly she changed into a pair of jeans and a t-shirt. She ran into the living room, grabbing some floo powder, threw it into the fire and stepped in herself.


Please let me know what you think by posting feedback (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?t=37082). :tu:

Sorry for the bit of a delay. I meant to post yeaterday but was too busy with school work. But never fear, here you are. Enjoy. :tu:

Chapter Nine: Love? (Part II)

“Abby!” Kenneth Bones yelled in surprise as his only daughter stepped out of his fire place in the kitchen. She ran to him and he embraced her in a tight hug.

“Oh dad!” She exclaimed and then began to cry.

“It’s ok,” he patted her back softly and led her into the den. “What’s wrong?” He asked as they both sat on the couch.

“I had this awful nightmare,” Abigail said between sobs.

“Nightmare?” Kenneth was suddenly alarmed. “Like the nightmare you told me about yesterday?” Abigail nodded but said nothing. “Are they getting more frequent?” He asked and again she nodded.

“I feel so stupid,” she finally said while wiping her watery eyes. “I’ve been crying so much lately.”

“There’s nothing wrong with crying,” he assured her.

“I shouldn’t have come here,” she said suddenly.

“No, I’m glad you came.”

“I am twenty-one years old,” she reprimanded herself, “I should be able to deal with some stupid nightmares. It’s just …” she trailed off.

“What is it?” He asked.

“They seem so real,” she admitted. “They don’t feel like regular nightmares.” Abigail felt her father tense next to her. She looked up at him. “Is there something you’re not telling me?” She asked. He shook his head no.

“I’m glad you came,” he repeated himself, “I feel so bad for the way you left yesterday.” Abigail looked away from her father feeling ashamed at her out burst. “Susan told us what Karen said to you.” He pulled her chin up so she was looking at him, “and if I were you, I would have done the same thing.”

She half smiled at her father then whispered, “Thanks.”

“It wasn’t your fault,” he said again embracing her in a hug as more tears threatened to spill out.

“I should learn to control my temper,” she replied, “What did mum say?”

Kenneth lightly chuckled. “She took Karen’s side of course. Claimed you were looking for a reason to fight with Karen. I’ve never seen Susan so angry before.”

“That’s mum,” Abigail mumbled, “she’s always favored others over me.”

“That’s not true,” he replied in an unconvincing tone. “Your mother loves you.”

“No she doesn’t,” Abigail scoffed, “She’s never loved me. I can tell.”

“She does too love you,” Kenneth sounded angry.

“She has a funny way of showing it.”

“Abby,” Kenneth sighed, “I think you should go up to bed and we’ll discuss this further in the morning.”

“Alright,” Abigail agreed and followed her father upstairs to her old bed room.

Janine Bones stood frozen in the kitchen. How dare that little brat! She began to rant. She doesn’t think I love her? Well it’s her own fault if I don’t. Why could she have just been a witch? Why did she have to turn into a squib? I never wanted children! I never wanted that little girl and then she’s not even witch and I have to deal with the embarrassment and the lies. There was no one else to take her. No one else wanted her. Why couldn’t Ken have put her up for adoption? She would have been so much happier in a little muggle family completely oblivious to her heritage. It’s her fault if I don’t love her.

“What are you doing down here?” Kenneth’s strong voice brought Janine out of her rant.

“Nothing,” she replied coldly, “I couldn’t sleep.”

“Tell me you didn’t hear what Abby said,” he replied with a sigh.

Abigail’s curiosity got the best of her. After leading her to her room, she heard her father head back down stairs. What on Earth would be going back down for? She crept from her room and sat at the top of the stairs where she was perfectly proportioned to hear what was going on in the kitchen.

“How can she think that I don’t love her?” Janine’s voice drifted to Abigail’s ears and she was hit with guilt. She hadn’t meant for her mother to hear that.

“She’s a very intuitive girl,” Kenneth replied.

“It’s not my fault if I don’t Ken,” Abigail’s feeling of guilt melted away as she felt a fresh stab of pain as though she was stabbed with a knife hard in the chest. “I never wanted kids Ken,” Janine continued, “I told you that when we got married. She is entirely your fault.” Abigail felt like there was a huge gaping hole in her chest. She never really thought her mother didn’t love her.

“Calm down,” her father replied, “she’s going to hear you.”

“So what if she does?” Janine asked, “It’s obvious she’s known all along. Maybe we should tell her the truth about-”

“No,” he interrupted sharply, “no. We are not going to tell her. We’ve had this discussion before.”

“She’s old enough to know Ken.”

“No, it’ll crush her.”

“I know that you love her,” Janine said softly, “I can see it in your eyes. You loved her the moment you laid eyes on her but I don’t have the luxury. You always said I would learn to love her and I’m sorry but I haven’t. Sometimes I feel as though she’s a burden. Why didn’t we give her up for adoption when we had the chance?” Abigail nearly fell down the stairs at this revelation. Put her up for adoption? They had considered it? Absolutely devastated she jumped up from her spot and ran to her room, slamming the door and collapsing on her bed in angry tears. This night just kept getting worse and worse.

The following morning Abigail got up early and had every intention of leaving when she went into the kitchen and saw both of her parents seated at the kitchen table. In front of a vacant seat there was a cup of hot, fresh coffee.

“Morning,” Kenneth said setting down his paper. Abigail made her way to the fire place. “Where are you going?” He asked.

“Home,” she replied shortly.

“Just wait,” he replied. “We want to talk to you.”

“I heard enough last night,” she replied as she reached for some floo powder.

“Abigail,” the tone in her father’s voice was warning enough. She turned to face him but scowled instead at the woman she once called her mother.

“What?” she barked.

“Sit down,” he ordered, “we want to talk.”

“I am not a child any longer,” she bit back.

“Then stop acting like one,” he stared at her and she begrudgingly took a seat. “I know you both heard some things last night that were said out of anger.” He reached over and patted his wife’s hand. Abigail was reminded strongly of her 11th birthday party where they had a similar discussion after her mother had called her an ungrateful brat because she didn’t want to have her birthday party at her aunt and uncle’s house. Then she remembered her 12th Christmas when her mother had made her help with dinner instead of going to the mall with her friends and she burned the ham. There had been some heated words then too.

“However neither of you were telling the truth,” her father’s words reached her ears but did not sink in. She remembered Susan coming to Christmas dinner after being at Hogwarts and how much pride was in her mother’s eyes. She remembered seeing Susan the following summer and having her mother practically smother her with praise. Abigail was never jealous of Susan. No, she was jealous of the love and attention she received but she felt no animosity toward Susan. She knew that Susan didn’t do it on purpose. All she wanted was to be loved and now she knew that that was not possible.

“I do not have to listen to this!” She suddenly jumped from the table, “I know the truth. You always do this dad. Mum and I row and there you are to patch things up, well you can’t patch this one. She doesn’t love me, she never has and I will not sit here and pretend that I am alright with that!” In a flash she grabbed some floo powder from the jar on the mantle, threw in the fire, and bellowed, “The Lair,” tears already building in her eyes.

“Abby!” Lee exclaimed in much the same way her father had the night before. “George!” Lee hollered up the stairs, “Abby’s here!” Abigail climbed out of the fireplace and brushed herself off. She could feel herself beginning to dissolve into tears. “Are you alright?” Lee asked as there were hurried footsteps up stairs.

“I’m fine,” she replied while sniffing and concentrating on wiping her robes so she wouldn’t cry. George apparated into the living room with a big smile on his face. When he saw the tears that began to spill from her eyes, his smile disappeared and he enveloped her in a hug.

“What’s wrong?” He asked soothingly.

“Nothing,” she wiped her eyes, “Can I use your bathroom?” He let go and pointed toward a small door. A second later Abigail was concealed inside. She washed her hands and face in the small sink to clam herself down. She did not need to cry in front of George anymore. It wasn’t fair to him.

“Abby?” George’s voice was muffled through the door but the gentle knock wasn’t.

“I’ll be out in a second,” she replied as she dried her face on the soft white towel hanging on the towel rack. She looked at herself in the mirror for a minute and took a few deep breaths. She turned and pulled the door open quickly to find George had been leaning upon it, he fell into her and they both ended up on the floor in a heap. Abigail laughed and it felt great. George quickly stood and held out his hands for her. She took them and not a second later he led her back into the living room to the couch. She sat down but he stood before her.

“I’ll be right back,” he leant down and kissed her on the cheek and before she could protest her was gone. She sat in the silent living room for a while. The only sound was from the kitchen where she imagined Lee was buttering his toast.

“No!” She heard someone shout from upstairs, “It’s your turn to-” there was a pause, “It’s my day-” another pause, “George,” it was Fred and he growled his twins name, “I can’t help it if your girlfriend shows-” Abigail looked up at the stairs to see Fred at the top looking down at her. “Fine,” he turned his back to her, “but you owe me, big.” Abigail was completely confused. What was that all about? Not a second later both twins apparated into the living room causing Abigail to jump slightly. Why couldn’t they just use the stairs like normal witches and wizards?

“Morning Abby,” Fred said with an angry edge to his voice. He looked like he just woke up. His flaming red hair was an absolute mess. His pajamas were wrinkled and he had a red line down his left cheek that she assumed was from his pillow or something.

“Morning,” she smiled brightly at him, "sleep well?"

“I would have slept better had someone,” he glared at his twin, “not woken me up.”

“I’m sorry,” Abby said at the same time George said,

“Shut up Fred.”
Fred smiled at Abby. “I’m glad someone cares,” then he went into the kitchen.

“What was that all about?” Abigail asked as George took a seat next to her on the couch. He put his arm around her shoulder and pulled her close to him into a warm hug. She snuggled her face against his chest.

“I don’t know why you were crying,” He said softly, “but just know that I’m here for you.” Abigail looked up at him smiling brightly and then reached up and kissed George on the cheek.

“I know,” she looked deep into his light brown eyes for a moment and felt completely mesmerized. He was smiling his cute crooked grin as he leaned down and gently brushed his lips against her. It sent warmth through her entire body and she grabbed the back of his neck to pull her closer to him. Abigail heard Fred clear his throat behind him, but chose to ignore him. George did to as he ran his fingers through her soft hair, not opening his eyes, or pulling his lips from her. Fred cleared his throat again, louder this time. George pulled away from Abby and looked over at his brother.

“I am not going to work early,” said an annoyed looking Fred, “just so you can sit here and snog your girlfriend.” Fred pointed unnecessarily at Abigail. “You said she was upset.” Some thing clicked in Abigail’s brain. So that’s what the argument upstairs was about. George convinced Fred to go and open the shop so he could spend more time with her.

“She was,” George grinned pulling Abigail from her thoughts, “I’m just cheering her up.”

“Come on Fred,” Lee came into the living room from the kitchen, “leave ‘em alone.”

“No,” Abigail pulled away from George and stood up. “I really should be going. I shouldn’t have come here in the first place.”

“What?” George stood next to her.

“It’s not a big deal,” Fred said in a very unconvincing tone.

“No, it’s ok,” Abigail walked over and kissed Fred softly on the cheek. “I appreciate the gesture.” Then she quickly slipped out the front door. Fred stood rooted to the spot but George chased after her.

“Hey,” he called as she was already down the street. Other people on the street out for early morning walks, she supposed, looked at him as he ran after her.

“No George,” she stopped abruptly and turned around. He narrowly avoided running her over. “You need to go to work. I’m fine.”

“At least let me walk you home,”

“You really don’t have to,” she replied.

“I want to,” he took her hand that was hanging limply at her side. The warmth from the kiss a few minutes before spread through her body and she giggled.

A/N: I know I know. Please don't kill me. You wanted answers and I didn't provide them. I'm afraid you're just going to have to wait a bit longer. Just be patient: good things come to those who wait. ;)

Please let me know what you think by posting in my feedback thread (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?t=37082). Even if you hate this story because I won't give you the answers you want. LET ME KNOW. I might actually post more often if I know I have more than 2 readers. :eyebrows:

A/N: *dramatic music- Dun, dun, dun...* can it be? :huh:

Chapter Ten: The End

A little while later George and Abigail were standing in front of Abigail’s door - snogging. Abigail pulled away from George slightly.

“I don’t want you taking advantage of Fred,” she said in answer to the look of confusion on his face.

“He doesn’t care,” George replied and allowed his lips to graze against the soft skin of her neck, causing shivers to run down her spine.

“George,” she whispered hoarsely while pushing him away, “I have classes to go to, and you need to help out your brother.” George growled and looked her in the eyes.

“Do you really want me to go?” She felt her knees weaken.

No, she thought desperately, I don’t. He smiled at the look on her face. It was so obvious she wanted him to stay.

“Just go,” she whispered before he could silence her with his lips. “You know that I don’t want you to,” her breath was warm on his face, “but I have to go to school.” He could not suppress the disappointed growl in his throat as he admitted defeat. He took his hands from her waist and cupped her cheeks softly.

“If you really want me to go,” he said with hope still in his eyes, “I will.”

She sighed and pulled further away from him. “You have to,” she smiled, then turned and slipped into her apartment. He stood outside for a moment, not moving. Then the door opened and she gave him a swift peck. “Now go,” she whispered. The door closed again and this time he heard her bolt it.


Abigail leaned on the door, still trying to catch her racing heart. He was so incredible. She smiled and brought her fingers to her red and probably swollen lips.

“Abby,” Abigail jumped nearly sky high at the sound of Susan’s soft voice.

She hadn’t even noticed her cousin whom was sitting in the kitchen eating. “Are you alright?”

“I’m fine,” Abigail blushed slightly.

“Where have you been?”

“I spent the night at my mum and dad’s,” she replied quickly, “then I went to George’s for a bit.” It didn’t matter how fast she said it, Susan still heard her.

“You spent the night at your parent’s house?” She asked, completely ignoring the end of her sentence.

“I had a weird dream,” Abigail replied, “And I wanted to see my dad. I don’t even really know why I went and I don’t want to talk about it.”

“Well,” Susan looked at her watch, “I believe you’re going to be late for your classes if you don’t leave soon.”

“Thanks,” she replied and she ran to her room.


The week went by much faster than Abigail expected it to. On Friday afternoon, she had barely returned from school when the phone rang. She wasn’t sure who it would be, so she answered it quickly.

“Hello?” she said politely while putting her things down.

“Abby?” A very familiar female voice asked from the other side.

“Sarah?” she asked just as incredulously. She sank into the nearest chair that luckily was behind her.

“Hey,” was all she said.

“Hey,” Abigail mimicked.

“Er-” Sarah paused, “how have you been?”

“Fine,”

“Well,” she sounded incredibly uncomfortable, “I was wondering if you were doing anything tonight.”

“I don’t know yet,” Abigail kept her voice cold and indifferent.

“Abs, I’m sorry for how rude I was-”

“And it’s taken you this long to apologize?” she couldn’t help herself.

“Look,” Sarah sighed, “I’m trying to tell you I’m sorry. I miss hanging out with you-”

“You should have called days ago,”

“I know,” Abigail felt her anger melting away. This is how their fights always went. Both of them would blow up at one another, they’d not talk for a few days and then one would apologize. It always worked. “Are we ok now?” Sarah asked tentatively.

“I guess,” Abigail mumbled.

“Do you want to go out with me tonight?”

“What are you doing?”

“Some of us are going clubbing.” Abigail smiled brightly.

“Yeah,” she replied without much thought, “that’d be great.”

“Alright then,” Abigail could tell Sarah was much happier now. “How about I come over there around 9 to get ready?”

“Sounds great,” said Abigail completely forgetting about the fight they had. It was just like nothing had happened.

“Ok, I’ll talk to you later then.”

“Alright,” Abigail returned the phone to the receiver and jumped from her seat. That was one of her favorite thing about Sarah, she could dance. She loved to go to clubs just about as much as Abigail did. Her joy was short-lived however when the thought of George appeared in her mind. What would he think? Abigail walked briskly to the fire, threw some floo powder in and knelt on the floor. She stuck her head in the emerald flames and said “the lair”. She never really liked this type of communication. Her head spun around while her body stayed in her living room. When the spinning stopped Abigail found herself looking into George’s living room from the fireplace.
“George!” she yelled loudly. She figured he was probably still at the shop, but

if she went there and he was here, she’d be upset. “George!” She called again after getting no answer. Deciding no one was home, she pulled her head from the fire.


Ten minutes later Abigail found herself in the storage room of Fred and George’s shop. She walked across the room and made to open the door just as George was coming in. He wasn’t paying attention as he was talking to Fred behind him and yelped when he ran straight into Abigail. His eyes, wide with fear he stared at her for a moment, before clutching his chest with his hand.

“You nearly gave me a heart-attack,” he hissed, stepping inside and closing the door.

“I’m sorry,” she replied, “I didn’t mean to.” He too ka few deep breaths, then looked at her sweetly.

“You weren’t planning on doing anything with me tonight?” She asked quickly. His face fell slightly as he studied her.

“Why?”

“Sarah called,” he nodded, “and she invited me clubbing.”

“Clubbing?” This was obviously something he had not heard of by thevery confused look on his face.

“Yes,” she replied quickly, “It’s where muggles get together and drink and dance. It’s a lot of fun.”

“And you want me to come?” He asked looking surprised.

“Well no actually,” relief filled his eyes, “but if you want to come, I suppose you’re welcome to.”

“No,” he said a little too quickly, “I can hang out with Fred and Lee. You go ahead and have fun.”

“Thanks,” in a flash she wrapped her arms around his neck and planted him with a big kiss. They stood there for a few moments kissing, until the door burst open and both pulled from each other. Lee Jordan was in the doorway, shaking his head from side to side sadly. George stared at him with an angry expression on his face.

“I’ve got to go,” Abigail announced.

“Come over for dinner,” said George as she reached for the floo powder. She turned and faced him. “What time are you going?” He asked when she didn’t respond.

“Nine,” she replied.

“Then come for dinner around six.”

“Alright,” she agreed,” and a moment later she was gone.


As promised, Abigail showed up at George’s house at 6 o’clock. She didn’t really feel it necessary to knock. So she stepped inside, shed her coat and hung it on the coat rack, then went into the kitchen. Lee was standing behind Angelina as she stirred something in a large pot. She cleared her throat and the pair looked over at her with big smiles.

“Hello Abby,” Angelina smiled, “it’s nice to see you again.”

“You too,” Abigail replied.

“George is in his room,” Lee seemed to have read her mind. “I can go get him if you’d like,”

“That’s alright,” Abigail smiled, “I’ll get him.”

“It’s the second door on the right,” he called to her back.

“I know,” she replied without thinking.

“You know?” Lee called from the kitchen then “-ow” she imagined Angelina smacked him. Abigail climbed the stairs two at a time and pushed George’s door open quickly. He was standing in front of a full length mirror no doubt admiring himself she thought. He smiled when he saw her in the door way and turned around to say hello.

“You didn’t greet me at the door,” she said with a small playful grin on her face. George walked over and enveloped her in his arms.

“I wish you had stayed longer at the shop,” he said while burying his face in her hair. She smelled so wonderful to him.

“Not exactly the welcome I was expecting,” she replied softly but he silenced her with a deep kiss. He was definitely becoming very forward. She decided as he lifted the sweater and shirt she was wearing and touched the soft, warm skin of her stomach. She shuddered involuntarily. George pulled from her lips and instead kissed the soft spot on her neck under her chin. She pushed away from his warm body slightly. This was getting out of hand.

“We shouldn’t be doing this,” she said in a soft voice. He looked at her for a moment. “I really should have let Lee come up and get you.”

“You don’t really want to stop,” he replied and pressed his lips against her. She pushed away from him again this time much harder.

“Let’s go down stairs,” she went to step away from him, but he held her where she was.

“Are you sure?” He asked.

“Yes,” she replied after a second‘s hesitation. Again she tried to step away, but he held her where she was.

“You don’t seem sure,” he replied smiling.

“Let. Go. Of. Me. George,” she said in a low growl. For the first time since they met she glared at him. He did as he was told immediately and she stalked from the room. He cursed at himself and then followed after a second. She was already sitting on the couch in the living room when he reached the bottom on the stairs. He thought she would have run out.

“Can we talk for a second?” He asked staring down at her. She had her arms pulled across her stomach like a child does when they’ve eaten too much. She was staring at the fireplace but her eyes seemed vacant.

“I don’t really want to talk right now,” she replied coldly. Tears were beginning to build in the back of her eyes, but she pushed them back. She was tired of crying.

“I would really like to know what’s going on,” he said as he sat on the edge of the couch next to her. She fought with everything in her not to look at him. But she had to tell him what was bothering her.

“I told you to stop,” she said after a long silent second, “And you didn’t.”

“I didn’t know you meant it,” he replied honestly. “I thought you were teasing me.” She turned back to him abruptly, tears she was loosing control of filling her eyes. George physically felt his heart break. It wasn’t the first time he’d made a girl cry. It was, however, the first time it hurt a lot to do it.

“Well I wasn’t,” she barked while wiping her eyes. She was not going to cry. Not with Lee and Angelina in the kitchen.

“I’m sorry,” he replied stunned, “If I thought you were serious I would have stopped-”

“You do it all the time,” she snapped.

His eyes widened, “I-I don’t mean to,” he stuttered, “I don’t want to force you into anything you don’t want to do.” It was the sincerity in his eyes that made her believe him. He looked genuinely apologetic. She dropped her guard suddenly and folded herself into his arms.

“It’s alright,” she said at the same time he whispered,

“I’m so sorry.”


A loud crack from upstairs announced Fred was home from closing the shop. He came down the stairs a moment later. Neither George nor Abigail moved. George was too stunned to move. He hadn’t meant to hurt her at all.

“Dinner’s ready,” Angelina announced right on cue. The three in the living room followed her into the kitchen and took seats around the table. Lee put a big bowl of spaghetti on the table and Angelina brought tomato sauce and meatballs. There was already garlic bread sitting in a basket in front of Fred. The five of them assembled had a lighthearted conversation about quidditch for a while. When they were finished eating Abigail washed the dishes by hand while George dried them. Neither really said anything to the other.
George was wondering what had happened upstairs. Had she really felt threatened by him? From then on, he vowed, he would never do that again. She was obviously very upset with him and that look was not something he ever wanted aimed his direction again. When they were finished with the dishes they played exploding snap with Fred until 8:45 when George walked Abigail to her car. He didn’t ask if she was certain she wanted to go, nor did her try to persuade her to stay, no matter what he wanted. He pecked her good bye and she promised to see him the following day.

A/N: I am such a lazy bum. I should have posted this a week ago or more. So, I'm going to start posting on a regular weekly basis. Possibly every Saturday as they seem to be my most free days. I'll bet you're wondering about the title of the chapter. You'll find out in the next half. :evil:

Please leave me some feedback good or bad right here. (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?t=37082&page=1&pp=30) :tu:

A/N: Thanks curlyfry, nej and Wep for leaving feedback (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?t=37082&page=1&pp=30) for the first half of the chapter. I posted this today just for you. Enjoy :evil:

Chapter Ten: The End (Part II)

Not five minutes after Abigail returned to her flat, Sarah knocked on her door. Abigail opened the door only to be engulfed by her best friend.

“I’m sorry,” Sarah said after she let go of the death grip she had on Abigail. “I’m such an idiot.”

“Yeah,” Abigail smiled, “You are.”

“Shut up,” Sarah hit Abigail playfully in the arm. “Is Susan here?” She asked.

“I don’t know,” Abigail shrugged. Sarah eyed her best friend for a moment but said nothing. The girls spent the next hour getting ready to go out. When they finally were ready Abigail was wearing a knee-length black skirt and a light blue V-necked, three quarter sleeve blouse. She had on black three-inch heels and a small black purse to match. She curled her hair and wore it half up with a blue barrette that matched her shirt. Sarah was wearing a slimming black spaghetti strapped dress that reached just below her knees with black shoes and purse to match. Both girls wore black jackets. The girls left Abigail’s flat at 10:15 and Sarah drove to one of their favorite clubs: The End.

Abigail ignored every whistle she got as the two girls by-passed the line and g
got in very quickly. Sarah recognized their friends in their familiar booth on the second floor. They walked over and everyone greeted Abigail nicely. She took a seat as a waitress walked over and she ordered a rum and coke.

“Haven’t seen you in a little while Abby,” Scott said loudly over the music that made Abigail want to dance. “Where’ve you been?”

“Around,” she shrugged and glanced at Sarah.

“Where’s around?” he asked with a sly smile. She shrugged again, not really wanting to talk to him. The waitress came back a minute later and handy Abigail two drinks.

“I only asked for one,” she said as she picked up the glass and tried to return it.

“The gentleman at the bar asked me to get you another,” the waitress replied. Abigail looked over her shoulder to see a very handsome young man sitting at the bar, smiling at her. She wondered for a moment what to do.

“It seems you have an admirer,” Liza said with a smile from Abigail’s right.

“Should I drink it?” Abigail asked.

“It’s free,” Liza shrugged. So Abigail drank both the drinks while exchanging pleasantries with people she’d already decided she didn’t want to be friends with anymore. After she finished the second one, she felt a tap on her shoulder. She turned to see the man from the bar standing next to her.

“Hi,” he smiled, “I’m John.”

“I’m Ashley,” she replied without hesitation. There was no point on giving a complete stranger her real name.

“Want to dance?” He asked. She looked at Sarah whom was talking to Doug, then back to the John.

“I’ll come too,” said Liza, for which Abigail was grateful. The three of them made their way down to the dance floor.
Abigail ended up dancing with John for well over an hour. He was a fantastic dancer not that she was anything less herself. She wondered where he learned it from.

The only thing Abigail hated about dancing was how much she sweats. It didn’t matter how cold the room was, she would always sweat and she felt it was disgusting.

“Where’s your boyfriend?” John asked casually as they took a break from dancing and sat at the bar on the first floor, both tired.

“At home,” she replied casually, “he’s not much of a dancer.”

“He let you out by yourself?” He asked with his eyebrows raised. “That’s not very smart.”

“I can handle myself,” she replied.

“If he knew you were dancing with me, do you think he’d care?”

“No,” she said simply, “he trusts me,” she then ordered a glass of water from the bartender. John did the same and they sat for a moment watching other people dance.

“Abby!” Sarah appeared before them also sweaty with Scott behind her. “Are you ready to go?” She asked sitting down. “My feet are starting to hurt.”

“Sure,” Abigail replied then turned to John.

“It was nice meeting you,” he said before she could, “you’re a great dancer.”

“Thanks,” she replied and he stood from his stool and walked out onto the dance floor. Abigail looked down and saw on the napkin that was between them was a note.

If you want to get together again, here’s my number. -John And the number was at the bottom. Abigail, on an impulse, picked the napkin up and slid it into the purse that Sarah had just handed to her. If Sarah noticed she didn’t comment.

“Let’s go,” Sarah sighed and pulled Abigail off her stool.

“Did you pay for my drink?” she asked as Sarah led her outside.

“That guy you were dancing with did,” she replied. “He’s a bit of a dish.”

“Yeah,” Abigail agreed as she followed Sarah to her car.

“Did you get his number?” She asked.

“No,” Abigail mumbled feeling slightly guilty.

“That’s too bad.”


The following day Abigail spent on her computer or in her books. She knew she was going to George’s house that night and she was not going to let that affect her studies.

“Are you going to George’s Halloween Party tonight?” Susan asked as she poked her head in her cousin’s room.

“Yeah,” Abigail mumbled not paying attention.

“Why didn’t you tell me about it?” Abigail paused, mid-sentence on a paper she was writing, and saved what she had; then turned to face Susan. She looked very angry.

“I forgot,” she said in earnest.

“If you don’t want me there-”

“No, I want you there,” Abigail interrupted, “I just forgot.”

“Do you really want me there?”

“I really do,” Abigail nodded, “honest.”

“Alright then,” Susan smiled. “What time are you going over?”

“Eight,” Abigail replied turning back to her computer.

At 8 o’clock Abigail arrived at The Lair. She could hear the loud music escaping in any way it could from all the way down the street. She was strongly reminded of party she met George at. She opened the door and slipped in. It seemed more crowded than usual. She waved and smiled at the various witches and wizards that acknowledged her.

“Hey gorgeous,” George whispered in her ear as she searched the room for him. She whipped around and wrapped her arms around his neck.

“Hey,” she said burying her head in his shoulder.

“I take it your not mad?”

“Mad?” she looked up at him in confusion, “Why would I be mad?”

“About last night…?”

“Oh,” she looked away from him for a moment, “that was my fault. I-”

“No,” he interrupted, “it was entirely my fault I should have listened to you.”

“No, I over reacted.”

“So you’re not mad then?” He gave her his best puppy-dog face that made her heart melt.

“I couldn’t be mad at you,” she replied.

“Good,” he grinned and kissed her lightly on the lips.


They spent the rest of the evening walking around greeting people. George introduced her to everyone as his ‘girlfriend’, which made Abigail’s heart sore. It was well past 2 o’clock in the morning when the last few stragglers left.

“Hey,” Ron said sitting next to Abigail on the couch. He decided to stay behind and help clean up. “Abby right?” He asked.

“Yeah,” she nodded. “Ron, isn’t it?”

“Right,” he smiled at her. “Are you coming to dinner on Wednesday night?” He asked conversationally.

“Dinner?” she raised an eyebrow at him. “Are you asking out your brother’s girlfriend?” His eyes widened in shock.

“W-what?” He sputtered, “No.”

She smiled kindly. “I was only joking.” He gave a nervous chuckle and looked around the room. She felt slightly guilty for scaring the poor kid.

“Are you coming then?” He asked after he seemed to regain his composure.

“I actually don’t know what you mean,” she replied. “What dinner?” His eyes got wide again.

“Leave it to me and my big mouth,” he muttered, “George is gonna kill me.” Abigail stared at the tall red head seated next to her for a minute.

“Kill you for what?”

“Nothing,” he replied and snapped his mouth shut just as someone covered her eyes with their hands.

“Guess who,” it was George.

“Er-” she pretended to think about it, “Fred?”

“No,” she could hear the laughter in his voice.

“Are you sure?” She heard Ron chuckle beside her.

“Quite,”

“Lee?”

“Nope,”

“Angelina?”

“Very funny,” he took his hands away and she looked up at him.

“Oh,” she frowned, “it’s you.” Ron laughed harder.

“Who’d you think it was?”

“That handsome devil of a brother you have. I supposed I can settle for you though,”

“You can leave any time you like,” he quipped.

“If you really want me to,” she stood and pretended to head to the door.
“I actually wanted to ask you to do me a favor.” She turned and smiled at him.

“I don’t know,” she sighed, “maybe if you were Fred.”

“What about me?” Abigail turned to the kitchen entrance to see Fred standing in the entranceway next to a rather short, blonde haired girl with a pleasant smile.

“Nothing,” said George. “Abby, are you ready to go?” He smiled pleasantly at her.

“I’ve been meaning to ask about that,” said Fred. “Why do you two always go outside when you leave? You know you can disapparate from in here right?”

“For privacy,” replied George. Abigail stared at him incredulously. She thought that by now George would have told them she wasn’t a witch.

“Can I talk to you for a second?” She said trying to keep her voice as even as possible. He looked at her for a moment with a bemused expression on his face that turned to concern. The others were staring at her as well. “Alone?”

“Yeah,” he mumbled, “let’s go outside.” He turned and went out to the back yard. Abigail followed, her fists clenched tightly. No one else said a word.

“You haven’t told them!” She screamed as soon as the door was closed behind them. A dawning look of comprehension appeared on George’s face.

“It’s never come up,” he replied.

“It just came up, right then.”

“I didn’t want to embarrass you!”

“You mean you didn’t want to be embarrassed by me!”

“That’s not true!”

“Yes it is!” She was screaming so loud now her throat was beginning to hurt, “I knew you were just like every other wizard George Weasley! All this time you were really only after one thing just like the others!”

“No I’m not!” He raged. “I can’t believe you just said that!”

“Well I mean it! If you aren’t ashamed of me then why haven’t you told them?”

“Why haven’t you?”

“I thought you already did!”

“What the hell do you want me to say to them? Hey, guess what, my girlfriends a squib by the way!”

“Yes!” She shrieked, “Tell them something! I cannot believe you haven’t told them!”

“I’ll tell them now if you want!”

“No! You never planned on keeping me around long enough to tell them did you?! What am I to you George? Just another meaningless fling?”

“No!” He shouted, “That’s not fair!”

“Yes it is!”

“I’m sorry I haven’t told them! What the bloody hell do you want me to say to you?”

“Nothing!” She screamed, “You’re good at that,” and without a moment’s hesitation, she turned and ran back through the house, past the group of very stunned witches and wizards, tears were streaming down her cheeks.

“Abby!” George’s shout fell on deaf ears. She ran out the front door, ripping her cloak violently from the cloak rack on the way. She ran as fast as she could, down the street to her car. She yanked her keys from her purse and wasted no time unlocking the car, getting in and starting it.

“Abby!” George screamed as he banged on her passenger window. Her eyes were so full of tears she could barely see but she drove off anyway.


A little more than half an hour later she miraculously made it to her destination in one piece. She was still sobbing as she walked up the stone front steps and pounded on the front door.

“Abby?” Kenneth Bones asked while pulling the front door open. “What are you-” he didn’t finish his question because at that moment Abigail threw herself into his arms.

“Daddy,” she sobbed, tears pouring out of her puffy and swollen eyes. “George,” was all she could get out.

“Oh baby,” he whispered as he stroked her hair gently. He led her into the house, through the foyer, and into the living room where they sat on the couch. The entire time Abigail did not take her head from her fathers shoulder and she didn’t stop crying. Kenneth sat down on the couch and pulled his twenty-one year old daughter into his lap. This reminded him strongly of when her first crush had told her he didn’t like her anymore.

“Daddy,” a twelve-year-old Abigail cried in her dad’s shoulder, “Why does it hurt so much? I want it to stop hurting.”

“If it wasn’t supposed to hurt,” he recited softly, “they wouldn’t call it a crush.” These were words his mother told him one night a long time ago when his first love dumped him. She was such an intelligent woman.

“I wish it didn’t,” Abigail howled through her tears. “I wish I’d never laid eyes on him.”

“I know,” he ran his fingers through her long, silky, brown hair. “I wish it didn’t hurt too.” Out of the corner of his eye he saw something move. He turned his head just in time to see his wife walk past the open door. She was obviously listening to what was going on.

“Can you hurt him for me?” Abigail asked oblivious to what he just saw.

“I wish I could,” he replied. “But that won’t solve anything.”

“Just this once daddy?” She pulled from his embrace and looked up at her with her big blue eyes that were now red and slightly swollen. She wiped her remaining tears away.

“I would if I could Abby,” he replied, “And Merlin knows I want to. But it won’t help anyone out in the long run.” Abigail nodded slowly.

“I love you daddy,” she whispered folding herself into his arms just like she had when she was a child.

“I love you too,” he replied softly.

“I want it to go away,” Abigail’s voice brought Kenneth back from his thoughts, “I wish I wasn’t so stupid.”

“You aren’t stupid,” he replied firmly.

“Then why do I always fall for the jerks?” She wasn’t sobbing anymore, but tears still leaked from her eyes. He couldn’t believe how much she’d grown up over the years. It seemed, to him, that just the day before she was the twelve year old on his lap.

“What happened?” Kenneth asked. Abigail stood quickly and wrapped her arms around herself like she did when she was cold. He watched his baby girl pace the room apprehensively.

“He didn’t tell anyone,” she finally whispered while turning back to face her father. He stared at her expecting her to continue, but she didn’t.

“Didn’t tell anyone what?” He asked. Abigail wiped her cheek quickly.

“That I’m a squib. I’ve been around his friends for two weeks now, and he never told them.”

“Oh honey,” he replied also standing. He walked swiftly over to her and wrapped her in his arms. “I’m sorry.”

“I thought he was the one,” she admitted, “I thought he was special.”

“Everyone makes mistakes Abby. I’m sure he didn’t mean to hurt you.”

“Not mistakes like this dad,” she shook her head, “he should have told them. I feel so betrayed. Why couldn’t he have just said something? All this time I thought they knew and were just too polite to ask. But no, he never said anything. He was too ashamed of me.”

“Did he say that?” Kenneth asked, hoping desperately that this was not the case. Only a completely idiot would admit that, even if that’s what they felt. George didn’t look like an idiot when they met.

“No,” she confessed, “But I know that’s what he was thinking.”

“Considering you can’t perform legilimency,” he chuckled while pulling away from her to look her in the eyes, “I doubt very much you know what he was thinking.”

“It hurts so much,” she covered her chest with her hand.

“I know,” he hugged her again. “Do you want me to hurt him?”

“Yeah,” Abigail chuckled slightly at the memory of her first heat ache. “I do.”

“Why don’t you go up to your room and we’ll talk in the morning over breakfast?”

“Ok,” Abigail agreed and crept upstairs. Within minutes, she was sound asleep in her comfortable, old bed.


Please let me know what you think!! It would mean so much to me! (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?t=37082&page=1&pp=30) :tu:

A/N: Thanks Wep for leaving me feedback. I would really like to know what the rest of my readers, if there are any of you out there, think about my story. So PLEASE post feedback in my feedback thread (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?t=37082). If I get some responses I might post again tomorrow because I'm going to Costa Rica for a week and will not have access to a computer 'till next Sunday or Monday. :tu:


Chapter Eleven: Reactions

The following morning Abigail woke slightly disorientated. Why was she at her parent’s house? The memories of the previous night came flooding back all at once and Abigail let out a small sob. No. She was not going to cry anymore. So she crawled out of bed and climbed into a hot shower. She stood under the shower head, allowing the hot water to roll down her for a while.

Why did she have to be so stupid? Why were all wizards such *ss holes? Well, standing in the shower dwelling on it was not going to help anyone. Least of all her. So she finished washing, then quickly stepped out and pulled on some clothes that she always left at her parent’s house.

Half an hour later she sauntered down stairs and into the kitchen where she could smell her dad’s fantastic pancakes cooking.

“Morning,” she said as she slipped into a chair at the kitchen table.

“Morning princess,” her father replied causing her to smile. He hadn’t called her that in ages. “How many pancakes would you like?”

“Two for now,” no sooner had the words left her mouth, than a plate with two pancakes, some scrambled eggs and bacon was set in front of her. “Thanks dad,” she said as he went back to the stove and made himself some.

“Where’s mum?” She might as well face the music sooner or later. Her mum would want to talk about what had happened last time she was home.

“Out,” he replied nonchalantly, “and no, I don’t know when she’ll be back.” Abigail looked concernedly at her father.

“Did you two have a row?”

“No,” he smiled and waved a hand dismissively in a manner that really meant yes. “Everything’s fine, she just went for a little while.” He sat down across from her and they both began to eat.



“I think you should talk to him,” Kenneth Bones said later as he and his only daughter stood by the front door finally discussing the events of the previous night.

“I don’t want to talk to him,” Abigail pouted.

“Take a few days and cool off,” he advised, “then talk to him.”

“Can’t you talk to him?” She was only half joking.

“You’re twenty one years old,” he replied, “he’s your boyfriend. You talk to him.”

“Ok,” she agreed reluctantly. “I’ll see you later dad. Thanks a lot.”

“No problem sweetheart,” he kissed her on the cheek as she hugged him. “You should come around more often.”

“I will,” she replied, “I love you.”

“I love you too.”

“Bye,” she turned and walked down the stone steps and out to her car.

“Bye,” he called softly after her. And then he was left alone - again.



“Where the bloody hell, have you been?” Susan had just ripped the front door open before Abigail could get her keys in the lock. “I have been worried sick about you!” This was not exactly the welcome she wanted, though she had anticipated it. Without answering, Abigail pushed past Susan and went into her room – Susan on her heels.

“Leave me alone,” Abigail replied in a dangerous voice, “I really don’t want to get into it with you.”

“Where were you?” Susan shouted.

“You seem to be forgetting that I am twenty one years old Susan! I do not have to answer to you, or anyone else.” She wasn’t sure why she snapped, probably from the strain of the night before.

“You could have told me you weren’t coming home when I left.”

“I didn’t know I wasn’t.”

“Were you with George?”

“Is that really any of your business?”

“You told me you were going to wait until you got married! You’ve known George for all of what - two weeks?”

“This is not your business,” Abigail replied, “now get out of my room before I make you.”

“I can’t believe you lied to me.”

“I didn’t lie to you Susan!”

“You know what?” She snapped, “Go ahead and do whatever you want. But I will not be here to pick up the pieces when he breaks your heart.” She walked angrily into the living room, Abigail followed but stopped in her doorway.

“You don’t know what the hell you’re talking about Susan!” she raged, “Holy *hit! I wasn’t with George last night if you must know! I went to my parent’s house! Because George and I are through! Is that what you want me to tell you? There! Now you know! Are you happy? You stupid bloody prat! ” Abigail slammed her bedroom door in Susan’s face so hard two picture frames on her wall fell to carpet. Abigail collapsed onto her bed - sobbing uncontrollably. She really felt like her heart was going to explode.

“Abby?” Susan’s voice was right up against the door. “I’m so sorry,” she was crying too. “I didn’t mean anything I said.”

“Go to hell!” Abigail screamed through her sobs, then grabbed her pillow and shoved it over her head to block out any sound.


The following afternoon after class Abigail gasped when she found George sitting in front of her door with a dozen roses in his hands. She turned immediately and ran- dropping her bag of school books as she went. She was down the stairs and almost to the sidewalk when George caught her around the middle and slammed her to the ground. She barely felt the impact with the grass because her anger was so overwhelming.

“Stop,” He whispered as she struggled against his strength.

“LET GO OF ME!” She screamed. “HELP!” Naturally, she couldn’t see anyone around to help her. People were never around when you needed them.

“Stop,” he said even softer. He wasn’t even hurting her, not really, she just had to get away from him.

“GET OFF OF ME!” She struggled.

“Abby,” his voice was barely above a whisper, “stop,” with that she did. She lay in the grass, sobbing, unable to fight anymore. He lifted himself off her enough for her to roll over on her back. She looked up at him and realized- he was crying too.

“I’m sorry,” he whispered in a broken voice.

“Leave me alone,” she said through sobs, “you don’t care about me.”

“That couldn’t be further from the truth-”

“YOU BROKE MY HEART!” She screamed at him and she hit him in the chest angrily. “You broke my bloody heart you *******!” She hit him repeatedly and struggled to get free but he didn’t let go of her. She didn’t look up at him until she felt water on her hand. It was then she noticed he was crying - harder than before.

“I didn’t mean to,” he said sternly, not bothering to wipe his tears away. “I would never hurt you on purpose.”

“Just admit that you’re ashamed of me,” she whispered, “And let me go inside.”

“I’m not ashamed of you,” he replied, “I’m not ashamed of what you are. I am ashamed of how I acted and what I said to ever make you think that I don’t love you.”

“You don’t love me,” she said softly, “you can’t love me.” He gently moved a strand of stray hair from her face.

“I do love you,” he whispered. She was looking straight into his eyes. She could see in them that he meant it.

“How do you know?” She questioned.

“I knew the moment I saw you,” he replied.

“But it’s only been two weeks-”

“I feel like it’s been years.”

“You deserve better than me-”

“There is no one better than you,” he sat up quickly and pulled her onto his lap into his arms. She didn’t resist at all, “I love you,” she felt his warm breath on the back of her neck, his voice was broken again, she could tell he was trying not to cry. “I swear I do.” A pang of guilt pierced her heart so hard she thought for a moment she was going to die.

“I’m so sorry!” She howled suddenly, “I was so awful to you.”

“Forget about it,” he whispered.

“I was so horrible,” she wailed.

“Hey,” he pulled her away from him slightly so she could look him in the eyes, “It doesn’t matter.” He gently wiped away her tears with his thumb. “It’s fine.”

“You deserve better than me.”

“I love you,” he repeated softly.


“Can we go inside?” She asked after a few moments of comfortable silence.

“Yeah,” a minute later they collapsed on the couch together in Abigail’s living room.

“George,” Abigail whispered as she snuggled close to him with her eyes closed. He had his arm around her shoulders and was holding her close to his warm body.

“Hmm?”

“Tell me you told them about me,”

He nodded, “They heard us shouting.”

“I’m sorry,”

“You don’t have to keep saying that,” he replied, “I know you are, and I am too.” He kissed the top of her head softly and stroked her silky hair.

“Promise me something,” she said quietly.

“Anything.”

“Don’t break my heart.”

“What?” She opened her eyes and looked up at him.

“Yesterday was the worst day of my life,” she said sternly, “and I know I can’t live through another day like that again. So promise me I won’t have to.”

“I can’t promise we won’t fight,” he whispered, “but I’ll do my best.”

“Alright,” she closed her eyes again and cuddled closer to him. He closed his eyes too and just sat with her in his arms. It had been a rough day for him too. He was never going to do anything like that again.

“George,” Abigail interrupted his thoughts.

“Yeah,” he asked as he opened his eyes to look at the beautiful woman wrapped in his arms.

“I love you too.”

“Good,” he smiled brightly and pecked her lightly on the forehead. “I was hoping you’d say that.” They sat in silence for a few minutes, both enjoying each others warmth and love.

“George,” Abigail broke the comfortable silence again.

“Hmm?”

“What was the favor you wanted to ask me?”

“What?” He looked down at her slightly confused. What favor?

“Saturday night,” she replied, “you had a favor to ask of me and you never got to.”

“Oh!” He smiled as he remembered, “I was going to invite you to dinner at my parent’s house this Wednesday night. My mum is requiring that everyone in the family comes. I thought since Ginny is brining Harry and Ron is bringing Hermione, you might want to come too. This way you could meet the whole family.”

“Do you still want me to come?” She asked.

“If you want to, I’d love for you to join me.”

“It’s not too late is it?”

“No,” he grinned, “I’m sure my mum will love to meet you.”

“Ok,” she sighed softly and snuggled even closer to him. “What should I wear?”

“It’s just a Halloween dinner,” he replied, “you can wear whatever you want.”

“Even muggle clothes?” She didn’t open her eyes.

“Anything,” he replied without hesitation.

“Do they know I’m a squib?”

“They don’t know anything about you,” he answered truthfully, “I haven’t told them anything.”

“Oh,” he kissed the top of her head gently.

“But I’ll tell them at dinner on Wednesday.”

“Ok.” They sat for a few more minutes in silence - completely enjoying each other. She could hear his heart in his chest beating in a soothing, rhythmic pattern. She could feel his chest rising and falling as he breathed. This was all she ever wanted to do. She never wanted to move from this position. It was so comforting in his warm embrace. She was so completely in love.

He felt the same way. He could smell the fruity shampoo she used in her hair. He loved how her warm body felt nestled against his chest. He never wanted to move again for fear of never getting this moment back.

“I love you,” she breathed softly in a sleepy voice.

“I love you too,” he replied. He couldn’t believe that at the same time the day before he was locked in his room writing out exactly what to say to her to get her back. He was so scared that he had lost her forever and he had only known her for two weeks. How was it possible that he loved this girl so much? A girl he just met but felt like he’d known his entire life.

If he was ever going to believe in soul mates this was the moment to do so. She was his other half. All these years he thought Fred was his other half but that wasn’t true. He hadn’t even known what he was missing until he’d met her. She made him feel so complete - so whole, it was overwhelming.

He kissed her forehead gently. How she loved the feel of his warm, soft lips against her own skin. It sent shivers down her spine. Did he know what he was doing to her? Holding her like this - she’d never felt so alive in her life. How could she have doubted his love for her?

She pulled out of his warm embrace slowly and sat up level with him. He stared quizzically at her for a moment. She placed a warm hand on his cheek and rubbed his soft skin gently. Keeping his eyes on her, George moved his head and kissed the palm of her hand softly. She smiled and pulled his face close to hers and caught his lips with hers - kissing him deeply.

“Hey,” George pulled away after a long moment. “I have to go.”

“What? Why?” She asked as he stood up.

“I don’t want you to think that, that’s what this is about,” he answered, “because it’s not. It’s not like that with you.”

“I know it’s not,” she replied.

“Then I’ll see you Wednesday night?” She nodded but did not reply, “come over to the house around five.”

“Ok,” she agreed and after pecking her on the cheek he disapparated.


So ... what do you think?? Please, please, let me know by posting here (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?t=37082)! I might actually start updating on a regulr basis. :p

A/N: The rest of this chapter is being posted specifically for those who left me responses in my feedback thread (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?t=37082&page=1&pp=30): nej, beenlovespotter, Wep, and Kola_Pup. Thank you guys SO much for your feedback I really appreciate it. You are awesome. :tu:
Also, I am going to Costa Rica for a week. I will not have access to a comptuer while I'm gone. So don't expect the next update until atleast Monday or Tuesday. If you're licky I might post as early as Sunday but don't count on it. If I regularly read and post feedback to your story and you update this week I promise to read and reply when I get back. Anyway, ejoy.


Chapter Eleven Reactions: Part II

That evening, after returning to work, Abigail knocked softly on Susan’s door. She heard Susan jump up and run to the door. She opened it and smiled brightly at Abigail.

“Hi,” said Abigail, “can I talk to you?”

“Of course,” Abigail turned and sat in the armed chair while Susan sat on the couch.

“I’m really sorry-”

“It’s not your fault,” Susan interrupted. “I’m too much of a mother. I shouldn’t have yelled at you like I did. You’re right. You are twenty one years old and I have no right to treat you like a child-”

“But I-”

“I don’t know what’s wrong with me,” Susan continued through Abigail’s unsuccessful interruption, “I need to just learn to stay out of your business. I mean I know that we’re close but I really had no right to pressure you into telling me about-”

“No, I-”

“-you and George,” apparently she had a speech prepared and she was going to get though it. So Abigail sat back and listened attentively. “It’s your prerogative to go where you want and do as you please. You are perfectly capable of taking care of yourself and I know that. I suppose I was only worried because,” she paused slightly and looked Abigail in the eyes for the first time since they sat down, “well because of what happened. I was really worried that something had happened to you. I’m sorry.”

“Are you through?” Abigail asked after a moment. Susan nodded. “Well, you’re right, you don’t have any business yelling at me the way you did. But I understand that you were worried and upset and I appreciate your concern. I’m sorry I didn’t tell you where I was. But I wanted to apologize for what I said to you. I’m not making any excuses, but I want you to know that I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have yelled at you either.”

“You don’t have anything to be sorry about,” said Susan. “I’m the only one who should be apologizing.”

“Well as long as we’re both sorry,” said Abigail, “I’m perfectly happy.” Susan opened her mouth to respond but then thought better of it. There was a moment of uncomfortable silence.

“Are you and George officially over then?” Susan asked tentatively.

“No,” Abigail smiled, “we made up this afternoon.”

Susan shrieked and jumped on her cousin embracing her in a hug. “I knew you would!” She exclaimed.


Tuesday afternoon Abigail went straight to Jonathon’s after her last class. She knew he’d be there. So she was surprised when he didn’t answer the door when she knocked.

“Jonathon!” She shouted while pounding on the door, “It’s me. I need to talk to you!” She had just given up and pulled out her cell phone to call him when the front door opened. To her surprise Allison opened the door.

“Hey Abby,” she said while running her hands through her messy hair. “Come on in,” she opened the door and Abigail stepped inside.

“Hey Allison,” Abigail looked around the living room quickly for Jonathon, “were you sleeping?” She asked regarding Allison’s messy appearance.

“No,” Allison looked at the floor, “we weren’t sleeping.”

“Oh!” Abigail clapped her hands to her mouth in recognition. “I’m sorry,” she mumbled through her hands.

“Hey Abby,” Jonathon appeared from his bed room - his shirt on inside out and backwards. “What are you doing here?”

“I wanted to talk to you,” she replied softly, “But I obviously interrupted something. So, I’m going to go.”

“No, it’s ok,” said Allison, “I’ll leave you two alone for a moment,” she turned and walked past Jonathon and into his room. He closed the door behind her and stepped further into the living room.

“I’m sorry,” said Abigail, “I didn’t mean to - er - interrupt.”

“It’s fine,” he replied unconvincingly. “What did you want to talk about?”

She sat down gingerly on the couch, “I wanted your opinion on something.”

“On what?” He sat down next to her.

“Have you ever been in love?” She asked quickly.

He glanced to his bedroom door before answering, “Are we talking about George?”

She nodded, “I love him.”

“You’ve only just met him.”

“That doesn’t matter,” she sighed softly, “I want to know what you think about him.”

“What?”

“You never told me what you think. We never really talked about it after we left the shop.”

“He’s a wizard,” he hissed this word quietly and ran his fingers through his messy hair in frustration. “I never expected you to get serious about him.”

“You don’t like him then?”

“I don’t like any of them,” he said sharply, “You know that! I think Susan is great, I do, but I don’t trust her or any of her friends. I thought you were through with their world. I thought you were going to find a nice muggle-” he hissed this word as well “-to settle down with. I thought this thing with George was just a fluke. Do you remember what happened last time you got involved with one of them Abby?”

“I wasn’t in love with him,” she answered, “That was just to please my parents. I didn’t even really like him.”

“All of them are the same. You will never be accepted by them-”

“George accepts me-”

“You’re not one of them,” anger shot through his eyes, “why are you trying so hard to be one of them when it’s blatant they don’t want you?”

“George wants me.”

“That’s what he says. Just wait until you meet his family and they find out. Do his friends even know?” She nodded but did not reply. “You cannot trust their kind. I don’t understand why you keep chasing after them! Why can’t you just be happy in this world?"

“Because I don’t fit in here either!” She screamed. “I have to lie to my best friend every day Jonathon! I’ve known her for four years but I can’t tell her the truth about me. I can’t tell anyone.”

“You think I’m happy lying?” He spat, “I’m not! But I’ve learned to live and deal with it and you have to too.”

“I’m not like you! Never having a boy friend meet my parents is upsetting to me! I don’t care that it doesn’t bother you- it bothers me! I meet their families and everyone is so nice and wonderful but they can’t meet my family. They can’t know anything about them!”

“You think I don’t know that?” He asked angrily, “I know that their world and the world of our parents can’t combine, but who cares? It’s not like your parents play an active role in your life.”

“No, my parents care about me!” She shouted, “just because your parents don’t seem to care about you does not mean mine feel the same way.”

“They obviously don’t care enough if they kicked you out! How often have they come to your flat to visit? Have they ever even seen it?” She didn’t respond because she couldn’t force herself to make eye contact and lie to him. “It doesn’t sound like they love you to me.”

“They love me! My life is not like yours! My parents love me!”

“Well so what? You’re upset about what your parents will think if you marry a muggle?”

“This isn’t about my parents!” she shrieked, “I can’t even listen to the music I want because I’ll get strange looks from everyone! I can’t keep parchment and quills lying out in the open! I can’t read the books I like, I can’t eat the food I like, I can’t even have my own bloody owl because people will ask too many questions. What kind of a life is this?”

She stood up quite suddenly and began to pace, “I’m graduating from Oxford in December and I don’t even know what the hell I’m going to do with my degree! Sell art Jonathon? Who am I kidding? I want to get married and have kids, I don’t want to work! But that won’t happen because every guy I meet knows there’s something off about me. They never stick around long enough to love me and I hate it."

She paused and fixed him with a sharp glare,“I can’t fit in, in either world Jonathon! But I finally found someone who loves me for me. He loves me and I love him and I just wanted your bloody approval! I just wanted to know what you think! But forget about it - I don’t need to know anymore. I love George and I’m not going to sit here and watch my life pass me by Jonathon. I can’t live life like this anymore. I’m sick of lying to everyone and myself. I want to belong to one or the other. You know we can’t belong to both. I won’t pretend that I’m not who I am anymore. I won’t pretend that my parents aren’t what they are. I’m tired of it.” She covered her face in her ands and cried softly to herself. “I’m tired of it.”

“What does this mean then?” He asked after a moment. “Are you saying goodbye to me?” She didn’t respond, she just stood where she was and cried. “Abby,” he sighed getting off the couch. “You’re my best friend and I want you to be happy-”

“No you don’t,” she looked over at him, “misery loves company. If you can’t be happy - you don’t want me to be happy either.”

“That’s not true,” he walked over and reached to hug her but she backed away.

“I’ll -uh- I’ll see you later,” and with that she left.



The following day passed by incredibly slowly for Abigail. If it went any slower, she mused, it would be going backwards. When she finally arrived home after her last class, she planned on taking a nap to help time pass. That is until she saw Lucas standing in her living room in a tee-shirt and boxers.

“Hi Lucas,” she said with a confused smile. “What are you doing here?”

“Nothing,” he replied quickly, “just reading.” He gestured toward a copy of an unfolded Daily Prophet sitting on the coffee table. She looked at her watch - which was difficult with the books she was for some unknown reason holding in her arms.

“You do realize that it’s three o’clock in the afternoon?”

“I know.”

“So why are you here, and why are you dressed like that?”

“I stayed the night.”

“You stayed the night?” She repeated.

“It wasn’t like that,” he said immediately, “they’re fumigating my apartment and I needed a place to stay for a few short days.”

“Oh,” there was an uncomfortable silent moment. “Is Susan here then?” Abigail glanced around quickly.

“No,” he replied, “She just left. She said you’d be home soon and she’ll be back in a minute or so.”

“Where did she go?”

“She didn’t say,” he shrugged, and sat back down on the couch.

“Didn’t she have to work today?”

“It’s a holiday,” he chuckled, “her department was closed.”

“Oh,” Abigail dropped her books on the kitchen counter. “I forgot.”

“What are your plans for tonight? Or don’t you have any?”

“I’m having dinner at the Weasley’s.” She went into the fridge and poured herself a glass of orange juice. “Would you like anything to drink?”

He shook his head no, ”You’re going to George’s - tonight?”

“Yes,” she replied.

He smiled. “Susan said you were probably going to your parents house like every other year.”

“No. I’m meeting George’s family.” She eyed him suspiciously for a moment, “What are your plans?”

“Oddly enough the same as yours.”

“What?” She set the half empty glass on the table and looked over at him.

“My family will also be at the Weasley’s house this evening.”

“Why?”

“Penelope invited us,” he shrugged.

“Just you and Susan, or your whole family?”

“The whole family,” he replied, “She insisted that we’re all there.”

“And how many people would that be?”

“There are six of us,” he replied, “including my older brother and his wife.” Abigail rubbed her face in her hands. “Is something wrong?”

“No,” she replied, “that’s just a lot of people.”

“Six?” He frowned, “That doesn’t seem like very many to me.”

She giggled softly, “no, I meant a lot of people that will be at dinner.”

“How so?”

“Well, there are nine Weasleys, assuming they will all be there. I don’t know much about the oldest two.”

“Nine?” He had a shocked expression on his face.

“You didn’t know that?” He shook his head. “Well there’s nine of them. Plus the six of you that’s fifteen, plus myself, Susan, Hermione, and Harry, that makes nineteen total. Of course that’s only if Fred, and the two oldest don’t bring anyone.”

“We’re talking a possibility of twenty-two people being there?” His shocked expression turned to a look of absolute horror when she nodded. “That’s a lot of people.”

“Poor Mrs. Weasley,” she groaned, “maybe George and I can go to my parent’s house.”

“And Susan and I’ll come,” he said immediately. As if on cue Susan apparated into the living room causing both Lucas and Abigail to scream. Susan swore when she saw Abigail.

“I was hoping I’d beat you home,” she said after setting down some bags.

“I thought we agreed not to apparate into the apartment,” said Abigail while holding her hand over her chest.

“I didn’t think you’d be back yet.”

“Apparently apparating isn’t the only rule you’re breaking,” Abigail gestured toward Lucas who was seated on the couch behind Susan. Susan turned slowly and Abigail couldn’t see the expression on her face when she saw Lucas still in his pajamas.

“I thought you were going to change before she got home,” she said so softly Abigail barely heard her. Lucas smiled and shrugged. After a short moment Susan turned back to face Abigail.

“He’s only staying for a few days,” she said, “is that all right?”

Abigail shrugged. “As long as he doesn’t eat all of my food.”

“Are you really set on going to the Weasley’s house tonight Susan?” Lucas asked from behind her. She sat on the arm of the couch and looked concernedly at him.

“Why?”

“Well Abby and I took a head count,” he swallowed slightly, “and it seems there might be twenty or more people there.”

“Twenty?” Susan glanced at Abby who nodded and picked up her previously forgotten glass of orange juice. “That’s a lot.”

“Yeah,” Lucas agreed, “So Abby and I thought you, George, and I could go to her parent’s house.”

“George and Abby?” Susan looked back to her cousin who just drained her glass. “You’re going to be at the Weasley’s house too?”

“Yeah,” she answered, “George said his mum insisted everyone come but twenty some odd people is a lot.”

“Well we can’t back out now,” said Susan while getting to her feet, “It’s too late. We’re going.”

“Are you sure?” Lucas asked sadly. It seemed he really didn’t want to go at all. Susan didn’t respond, she just looked at Lucas for a long moment.

“Well, I have some homework,” said Abigail and she gathered her things and locked herself in her room.



At five o’clock on the dot Abigail arrived at the Weasley residence. To Abigail’s surprise Angelina answered the door.

“Hi Abby,” she greeted, “come on in.” She was dressed in beautiful emerald green dress robes and her hair was one up elegantly.

“You look amazing,” said Abigail admiring Angelina.

“Thank you,” Abigail stepped inside.

“You aren’t coming to George’s house are you?”

Angelina chuckled softly before responding with, “No. Lee and I are going to the ball at the ministry.”

“Oh,” Abigail nodded and let a soft sigh of relief pass through her lips. She looked down at her own attire - muggle jeans, a white, long sleeved shirt, and a light pink jumper. She definitely looked no where near as ravishing as Angelina.

“George!” Angelina called up the stairs, “Abby’s here.”

“Are you waiting on Lee?” Abigail asked.

“Yeah,” Angelina smiled, “he always takes forever.”

“Do you know if Fred is taking anyone to his parent’s house tonight?”

“Yeah, he’s already left though so you’ll meet her when you get there.”

“Oh,” a moment later George came down the stairs and Abigail was surprised for the second time that night. He was wearing muggle jeans and a black jumper. He smiled when he saw her.

“Hello gorgeous,” he kissed her softly on the cheek.

“Hello,” said Angelina before Abigail could. She was grinning at the two of them.

“Funny,” said George, “you do look stunning though.” He took her hand and spun her around. “If you weren’t Lee’s girl-” he stopped at the abrupt elbow to the ribs Abigail gave him. “I was only joking,” he said while rubbing his ribs.

“You’d better have been joking.”

“Are you ready to go then?” He asked walking toward the fire place.

“Yeah,” Abigail mumbled - she hated traveling by floo.

“See you later Angelina,” said George as he threw some floo power into the fire place. It burned bright green.

“Have fun you too,” said Angelina with a grin spread across her beautiful face. George stepped into the fire place and held his hand out for Abigail.

“You too,” she said before climbing into the fireplace with George.

“The Burrow,” he bellowed as he pulled her tight to him.

So ... what's the verdict?? Good? Bad? LET ME KNOW (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?t=37082&page=1&pp=30)! :P

A/N: I'm back from Costa Rica! Did you miss me?? :p Hope you think this chapter is worth the wait. ;) Thanks to beenlovespotter, Kola_Pup, and UKlupinfan for leaving me feedback. (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?t=37082&page=1&pp=30)

Chapter Twelve: Halloween

George and Abigail ended up at the Burrow in a matter of moments. There were already quite a good amount of people there when they stumbled out of the fire place. Everyone looked to see who had just arrived. After the spinning stopped, Abigail looked around to realize they were in the kitchen. It was small and appeared even smaller with the other people standing around. She self consciously wiped her pink sweater. Amazingly, it wasn’t as covered in soot as usual. She smiled when she felt George’s hand slip into hers.

“George!” A dumpy woman shouted, drawing Abigail’s attention to her. She grabbed George into a hug and he was forced to release Abigail’s hand.

“Hi mum,” he mumbled. She finally released him and he reached for Abigail’s hand again. She took it and he dragged her over. “This is Abby. Abby, this is my mum.”

“Hello Mrs. Wealsey,” said Abigail.

“You can call me Molly,” she replied while shaking Abigail’s hand. Her red hair was pulled back into a messy bun and she was wearing an old cooking apron. Abigail couldn’t help but smile - she wished her mother had cooked for her like this woman obviously did.

“George!” A deep voiced boomed behind them. Both turned as George as engulfed in yet another hug. This time he reciprocated it. Abigail assumed this tall red head he was hugging was either Charlie or Bill.

“Bill,” said George, after they let go of one another, “this is Abby.” Bill smiled brightly and shook Abigail’s hand. He was tall and lean and very attractive. He had long red hair that was pulled back into a pony tail and a fang hanging from one ear. This was definitely not something she was expecting from George’s description of his older brother.

“It’s nice to meet you,” said Bill, “this is my wife-” he turned around and took the hand of a very gorgeous woman. She had long blonde hair and bright blue eyes and the most perfect body Abigail had ever seen. She suddenly felt very self conscious, “-Fleur.”

“‘ello,” said the woman as she shook Abigail’s hand. She couldn’t have been much older than Abigail herself.

“Hello,” Abigail replied with a weak smile. “It’s nice to meet you.”

“You too,” she definitely had an accent, Abigail noticed.

“Are you French?” She ventured - what with a name like Fleur it wasn't much of a stretch-

“Yes,” Fleur replied, “I am French.”

“Abby can speak French,” said George in an impressed sort of voice. “Can’t you?”

“Yes,” she nodded.

“Can I have your attention please!” Shouted the voice of Mrs. Weasley. Everyone turned to face her, “I’m afraid I’m going to have to ask you to exit the kitchen.” She smiled slightly, “I just can’t cook with all of you in here.” George and Bill chuckled softly and followed the rest of the guests into the living room.

“How long have you been married?” Abigail asked Bill once they were relocated in the left corner of the living room.

“A little over a year,” said Bill, “We got married the summer before last.”

Abigail smiled, “That’s nice.”

“Yeah,” said George, “listen, I want to introduce Abby to the others.”

“Ok then,” said Bill. George pulled Abigail by the hand away from Bill and Fleur.

“You already know Ron and Hermione and Harry and Ginny right?” Asked George as they passed the group of four talking amongst themselves.

“Yeah,” she replied.

“Well, I suppose you can meet Percy then,” George grumbled as he led Abigail across the room to yet another red headed boy who was seated on a red couch. This boy was not like any of the others she’d met so far. He was skinny and pale and had round glasses. He was dressed very nicely in dark blue robes and was seated next to a fairly pretty girl. She was thin and had long, wavy brown hair. Her face reminded Abigail of Lucas so she assumed this must be his sister.

“Hey Perce,” said George as they drew near. Percy smiled but the smile did not reach his eyes.

“Hi George,” he replied in an even tone.

“This is Abby,” George gestured toward Abigail. She watched as Percy looked at her appraisingly and then met her eyes.

“It’s nice to meet you,” he stuck out his hand.

“You too,” said Abigail as she shook it.

“This is Penny,” he said gesturing toward the girl.

“You’re Lucas’ sister right?” Abigail asked while shaking Penny’s hand.

“How do you know Lucas?” She asked.

“His girlfriend, Susan, is my cousin and we live together.”

“Really?” Asked Percy in what seemed as an interested voice. “I didn’t know that,” he looked at George who shrugged. “What a small world.”

“Indeed,” said Penny.

“Oi! George!” Fred’s voice carried across the room. Abigail saw Percy roll his eyes at the sound of his brother’s voice. She was liking him less and less by the minute.

“Well, we’re gonna go,” said George.

“It was nice meeting you,” Abigail added as George pulled her off in the direction of his twin.

“Stupid git,” George muttered under his breath.

“Abby,” Fred greeted with a smile, “this is Beth,” he had a skinny, brown haired girl on his arm. She had a warm face and soft green eyes.

“Hi,” said Abigail while extending her hand, “It’s nice to meet you.”

“You too,” said Beth.

“You already know George,” said Fred. Beth and George both nodded.

“Nice seeing you again,” said George.

“Yes,” replied Beth.

“Well, there are others I want you to meet,” said Fred and he pulled Beth away from them. Not a second after they left did the doors at the far end of the living room open and in walked Susan, Lucas, and what appeared to be Lucas’ parents, and older brother and his wife. Abigail saw Percy bolt out of his seat, followed quickly by Penny.

“Mum,” Penny greeted her mother with a hug, “dad,” she hugged him too. Lucas and Susan we looking around at the different people while the other brother was staring at Percy.

“Mr and Mrs. Clearwater,” said Percy and he shook both their hands and bowed slightly. Abigail heard Ron chuckle softly from behind them.

“It’s nice to see you again Percy,” said Mr. Clearwater.

“Thank you sir,” he replied.

“I’m Henry,” said the older of the boys to Percy. Apparently he felt he had to introduce himself.

“Nice to meet you,” said Percy.

“And this is my wife Linda.”

Percy shook her hand next, “nice to meet you too.”

“You already know Lucas,” said Penny is a dismissive manner. Abigail wondered if she was the only one to see the brief look of hurt on Lucas’ face. “And you remember Susan from school.”

Percy nodded. “Well let’s meet my parents,” he lead them all out of the living room and back into the kitchen.

“Where’s your dad?” Abigail asked looking at George who was scowling in the direction of the kitchen.

“I don’t know,” he looked around briefly, “he’s usually right in the middle of things. Maybe mum roped him into helping in the kitchen.”

“Let’s go say hello to Ron and the others,” said Abigail as she took George’s hand and pulled him toward the group of four. They all looked up as they approached.

“Hey George,” said Harry with a bright smile.

“Hiya Harry,” George replied.

“Do you know when we’ll be eating?” asked Ron while holding his stomach, “I’m starving.”

Hermione elbowed Ron sharply, “You’re being awfully rude,” she said softly.

“I can’t help it if I’m hungry,” he replied.

“Any idea why everyone was mandated to come?” Asked George - cleverly changing the subject from the approaching fight.

“It’s quite obvious isn’t it?” said Ginny looking at each of them in turn. No one replied so she continued, “Percy is going to tell us he’s asked Penny to marry him.”

“Really?” said Ron, “Do you think that’s it?”

Ginny rolled her eyes, “Why else would our entire family need to be here plus hers?” They all shrugged.

“I always knew you were smart,” said George as he patted Ginny affectionately on the head.

“Shut up,” she replied.

“Charlie!” Ron exclaimed while suddenly jumping from his seat. He was pointing behind George and Abigail. She turned and saw another red headed boy enter the room. He was built like Fred and George - tell and muscular - and had a thin brunette on his arm.

Ron pushed his way past George and threw his long arms around his brother. “I didn’t know you were coming!” He shouted.

“Hey Ron,” said an obviously stunned Charlie. Ron was easily a few inches taller than Charlie and it made Abigail smile to watch the older sibling looking up to the younger. “It’s great to see you too.”

“Come on,” said George as he lead Abigail over to his brothers. “Well don’t suffocate him,” he said as he tugged on the back of Ron’s shirt.

“Let the rest of us say hello,” said Fred from behind Charlie.

“Hiya George,” said Charlie after Ron had let go of him. Abigail saw Fred hug the girl standing next to Charlie, but she didn’t catch her name.

“Hey,” said George and then Charlie pulled him into a hug. Ron hugged the girl next.

“Long time no see,” said Charlie as he patted George on the back.

“Yeah,” said George. Charlie let him go and then turned around to hug Fred.

“Fred!”

“Is it just me,” said a female voice in Abigail’s ear the same time George said the girl’s name, “or do they hug a lot?” She turned to see Susan standing next to her with Lucas on Susan’s other side.

“They seem to,” said Abigail softly, “but I don’t mind.”

“Charlie!” Ginny was the next person to hug Charlie.

“Ginny!” He held her close. “I’ve missed you.”

“I’ve missed you too.”

“Hey Charlie,” said Harry.

“Hiya Harry,” Charlie hugged Harry briefly. “Hermione,” there was another brief hug.

“I thought you weren’t coming till Christmas,” Ron asked excitedly.

“I wasn’t,” said Charlie, “but I had a change of plans.” Abigail wondered if she was the only one who caught Charlie glance and wink at the girl that had somehow managed to stay by his side even with all of the hugging. And then, as though he felt her eyes on him, he looked up and directly into Abigail’s eyes. “I don’t believe I’ve met you.”

“Oh!” George shouted, “I’m sorry,” he smiled sweetly at her, “Charlie, Alex, this is my girlfriend Abby.” So the girl's name was Alex.

“The one you wrote me about?” George went slightly pink and nodded. Charlie’s grin - if possible- grew even bigger and then quicker than a blink of an eye he pulled her into a hug as well.

“It’s nice to meet you!” He exclaimed. Hugging Charlie was nothing like hugging George. True they were about the same height and build but Charlie was much rougher. George was always so gentle when he hugged her but Charlie was practically breaking her ribs.

“You too,” she replied weakly.

“Alright, that’s enough,” said George as he pulled his brother from his girlfriend. Everyone gave an appreciative laugh.

“You never told me your brother was this handsome,” said Abigail to George, “had I known...” Everyone chuckled again. Abigail noticed Alex take Charlie’s hand in hers.

“Yeah his description didn’t do you justice either,” said Charlie with a wink.

“You’d better watch out for this one,” said Fred, “she was hitting on me the other day.”

“Don’t know why,” said Alex, “Everyone knows George is better looking.”
“Why thank you,” George put his arm around Abigail. And everyone chuckled some more. Abigail noticed Charlie looking around the room.

“Beth, it’s nice to see you again,” he nodded at Beth who was standing with Fred. She nodded but didn’t reply. Then his eyes fell upon Lucas and Susan whom looked right odd standing with a fairly large gap between them and the group huddled around Charlie and Alex- now that Abigail knew her name.

“You look really familiar,” he said pointing at Lucas.

“I’m Penelope’s brother,” he said.

“Penelope?” Charlie looked at his brothers.

“Percy’s girlfriend,” said Fred, “they’ve been dating for centuries.”

“Oh!” Charlie looked around again, “where is Perce? And mum and dad?”

“In the kitchen, I think,” said Ginny.

“Where’s Bill and Fleur?” Everyone looked around. Abigail hadn’t even noticed their disappearance.

“Dunno,” Ron shrugged, “They were in here earlier.”

Charlie’s attention came back to Susan as he said, “I don’t believe I’ve met you,”

“I’m Susan Bones,” said Susan.

“She’s my girlfriend,” added Lucas, “my entire family is here somewhere,” he looked in the direction of the kitchen. Charlie followed his gaze.

“George,” Abigail whispered to the handsome wizard with his arm around her.

“What?” George looked the happiest she’d seen him.

“Who’s the girl that came with Charlie?”

“Oh, that’s his girlfriend Alex. They’ve known each other for years but only just started dating again a few months ago when-”

“Dinner’s ready!” Mrs. Weasley stuck her head into the living room.

“I’ll tell you later,” George said softly.

“Ahh!” Mrs. Weasley screamed upon seeing Charlie. She ran over to him and he wrapped his arms around his mother. Apparently she didn’t know he was coming either.

“Hey mum,” Hermione took Ron by the hand and lead him out of the living room. They were followed closely by Susan and Lucas, then Harry and Ginny, and George and Abigail. George had to grab Fred by the arm on the way past him.

“What are you doing here?” Abigail heard Mrs. Weasley ask before the door closed. George led Abigail through the kitchen and outside. There was a large white tent set up with torches on either side of a path that lead to the entrance.

“Who did this?” Fred asked George.

“Dunno,” said George. The flaps of the tent were open so everyone went through. Inside they found two long, rectangular, picnic tables with white table cloths and shining silver. The ceiling had chandeliers with lit candles hanging from them. The walls were lined with more torches making the entire tent well lit.

“Ahem,” Abigail’s scanning of the interior stopped and she looked at the second picnic table. Seated in the center was Percy with Penelope on his left. The rest of the Clearwaters were seated across the table. Mr. Clearwater was on the end, with his wife on his right. Next to his wife was their son Henry with his wife on his right.

“Welcome,” said Percy, “please come in and sit down.” They obliged and walked over to the tables. It was then Abigail noticed there were name tags on each plate. Apparently Ginny was right. Abigail had been to enough weddings to know what a reception looked like when she saw one. This was exactly what one would look like.

“What’s going on Percy?” Ron asked while picking up Harry’s name tag.

“Please sit and I will explain.”

“We’ve never gone this far out for Halloween before,” said Fred while looking around the tent. Percy grew a little red in the face and looked like he was beginning to get agitated. So Abigail took George by the hand and led them to their seats. Everyone else followed. Beth was seated on the end of the table closet to the tent wall with Fred next to her. Abigail was on Fred’s left with George on her other side and Ginny was on the end. Hermione was seated across from Beth and Ron across from Fred. There were two empty seats next to Ron. Harry was on the end across from Ginny.

I'm afriad you're going to have to wait for more. Let me know what you think by posting here (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?t=37082&page=1&pp=30). :tu:

A/N: Thanks so much to Wep, curlyfry, and Kola_Pup for leaving me feedback (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?t=37082&page=1&pp=30). This was posted for you! :tu:

Chapter Twelve: Halloween (Part II)

Ron picked up the name tag on the empty plate next to him. “How did you know Charlie was coming?” He asked looking over at Percy. Abigail noticed Lucas was now seated next to Penelope with Susan on his other side. There were two vacant seats across from them as well as two vacant seats across from Mr. and Mrs. Clearwater.

“I asked him to come of course,” said Percy arrogantly.

“Why didn’t you tell any of us?”

“Does it matter Ronald?” Ron’s ears went pink and he put the name tag back down on Charlie’s plate. Hermione took Ron’s large hand I both of her small ones.

“Don’t let him bother you,” she said quietly in his ear.

“I’m not,” Ron muttered.

The tent was silent for a moment while everyone looked around and at each other. Abigail was just going to ask Harry a question when Bill and Fleur entered the tent. Bill let out a low whistle as he looked around.

“Nice Perce,” he said with a smile. Fleur looked around as well but she didn’t seem impressed.

“Your seat is over here,” said Percy standing. Bill smiled at everyone as he walked past and found his and Fleur’s seats - across from Susan and Lucas. Percy sat back down after they were seated.

Not a moment later did Charlie come carrying a platter of ham. Alex was behind him with an identical platter. Mrs. Weasley came in right after Alex with an assortment of different foods. Abigail wasn’t really sure what they all were but they all looked delicious and Mr. Weasley came in with even more. They set all the food down on the two tables and after the new arrivals were seated Percy stood.

“I would like to say welcome to everyone that came this evening,” George rolled his eyes and Abigail held back a giggle, “I have a few things I would like to say,” Ron groaned as he looked at the food, “But I will save them for later as I don’t want the food to get cold.” He sat back down.

“He acts like this is his house,” muttered Fred. “Arrogant little prat. Did he thank mum for making the food? No. Everything is always about him.” He stabbed some ham off the platter moodily and piled it onto his plate.

“Are you alright?” Abigail asked softly while getting some mashed potatoes.

Fred looked at her for a moment, “I’m fine,” he sighed, “I just don’t care for Percy.”

“That’s not very nice,” said Charlie, whom was seated across from Abigail, quietly.

“You don’t have to live in the same country as him,” said George.

“How come you told Percy you were coming, but you didn’t tell the rest of us?” Asked Ron.

Charlie shrugged, “He asked me not to tell you I was coming.”

“Why?” Fred eyed Charlie. “It’s obvious why we’re here,” he continued, “it’s not like its some big secret.”

“Well to Percy, it is,” Charlie smiled and shoved some food into his mouth.

***

The rest of dinner was passed nicely. Ginny complained about Bill sitting at the other table and Abigail noticed Susan and Lucas looking at their table enviously. Charlie asked Harry and Ron all about auror training and Abigail learned quite a bit. Hermione and Beth talked about muggle things and Abigail happily contributed to educating Fred, George, and Ron about the usefulness of computers. All in all it was a very pleasant evening.

She should have known it was too good to last when that fatal sound was heard. Percy rang his fork against his glass.

“Excuse me,” he said pompously, “I have a few things I would like to say.” Everyone turned their attention to him. “It’s blatant,” he began, “that this dinner was not only to celebrate Halloween.” He smiled, “I want to inform everyone that Penny and I,” he looked down at her, “are going to be married this spring.”

“Oh Percy, that’s wonderful,” said Mrs. Weasley. She jumped up and gave him a hug. “That’s my second son,” she exclaimed.

“Actually,” Charlie stood up and looked around at everyone, “I don’t mean to steal your glory Perce,” he smiled, “But you’re the third.”

“What do you mean?” Mrs. Weasley asked, still holding onto Percy whom didn’t seem to notice or care. He was gaping at Charlie as though he’d seen a ghost.

“Alex and I eloped a couple of months ago.” Everyone sat where they were just staring.

“I’m sorry,” Mrs. Weasley shook her head and let go of Percy. She chuckled softly while sitting back down, “I think I just hallucinated. Say that again.”

“You heard me mum,” said Charlie. “We got married in Romania.”

“Can I-” she seemed to be at a loss for words, “-you-” she pointed at him, “-house-” then she stood up again, “-now.” She marched from the tent and they could practically feel her stomp across the yard. Abigail would later swear she felt the tent shake when the back door slammed shut. Charlie shrugged and, taking Alex by the hand, followed his mother inside. Mr. Weasley was right on their heels.

And then there was silence.

Not ordinary silence. The kind of silence so complete you would think you’ve gone deaf - or just walked into a sound proof room.

And there was shock. The kind of shock where you forget to breathe and then you feel your head start to throb before you realize you were holding your breath. The kind of shock where your entire body is immobile and no matter how much you will yourself to move - you can’t.

No one moved - not even their eyes - except Abigail. She couldn’t even see and of the Weasley's chests rising and falling.

Percy was frozen with his arms out stretched as though they were still around his mother. He was staring fixedly at the place where Charlie stood. Had Abigail not known better she’d have thought he had been petrified. All the Weasleys, actually, look petrified. They were all staring at the same spot frozen with an expression of shock on their faces. The Clearwaters looked a bit uncomfortable as they looked around the tent.

George’s head movement in her direction actually startled Abigail. She jumped and nearly fell off her seat. This caused Fred and Ron to laugh but not happily- it was that nervous sort of laughter where you laugh when you don’t know what else to do.

It was Bill who came to his senses first. Abigail noted that he didn’t seem as shocked at the others. He cleared his throat causing a few more Weasley children to stir. “Well,” he said quietly, “That was – er - unexpected.”

“Unexpected?” repeated Fred, “that’s certainly saying the least.”

“I think I just had a heart attack,” said Ginny clutching her chest. Abigail chuckled at her as did Lucas and Susan.

“I’ve never been so stunned in my life,” said George while running his fingers through his hair. “Did that really just happen?”

“I thought we were here for Percy’s wedding announcement,” said Ginny, “not Charlie’s.”

“This is obviously a private moment,” said Mrs. Clearwater while standing. Percy stared at her as though seeing her for the first time.

“I can’t believe he just did that,” he mumbled.

“It’s alright,” said Penelope while kissing him on the cheek.

“We had a wonderful time,” said Mrs. Clearwater, “but we really should go.”

“Yes,” Henry agreed. He and Linda stood slowly. “It was nice meeting you,” he reached over and shook Bill, Fleur, and Susan’s hands.

“You too,” Bill muttered.

“I think we’ll come too,” said Lucas.

“Er-” Percy still looked bewildered, “I’ll-”

“It’s alright,” said Penelope.

“No,” Percy smiled, “I’ll show you out.”

“Alright,” Penelope agreed as Percy began to lead the way out of the tent.

“It was nice meeting all of you,” said Henry as he passed their table.

“You too,” said Fred.

“I’ll see you at home,” said Susan to Abigail.

“Yeah,” Abigail nodded. Then the seven of them followed Percy from the tent.

“I hope he has enough sense not to go through the house,” said Ginny.

“Ron,” Hermione nudged him. He was sitting with his elbows on the table - his hands holding his hair - just staring at his plate. “Are you alright?” He didn’t so much as blink.

“Ron,” said Fred.

“I can’t believe that,” Ron finally muttered quietly. “He didn’t even invite us to the wedding.”

“I know,” George muttered. “I thought he’d at least tell us about something like this.”

“At least it’s Alex,” said Hermione. “You’ve always told me how much you like Alex.” Ron nodded.

“She’s real nice.”

“And he’s been in love with her forever,” said Fred.

“It was probably a nice wedding,” Ginny sniffed loudly and then jumped up from the table. Tears were filling her eyes quickly as she ran from the tent. Harry - the only one who had yet to say anything ran after her.

“Well,” Bill watched his sister leave frowning as he walked over to their table. “Maybe we should clean this all up.” They all looked around at the dirty dishes.

“I’m not going in there.” said Fred looking in the direction of the house, “Mum will be yelling for at least another day or so. I say we all go home and pretend it didn’t happen.”

“Fred,” Bill popped him on the back of the head. “We have to help mum. Do you think she’s going to want to do this?”

“Make Percy do it,” Fred replied, “this was his party any way.”

“We’ll help,” said Abigail. George whipped his head around and stared at her.

“I’m not going in their either,” he said.

“You’re twenty one years old,” said Abigail, “You can’t possibly still be afraid of your mum.”

“You’ve only just met her,” said Ron.

“We’ll help clean up too,” said Hermione.

“Yeah,” said Beth.

“Well you girls go right ahead,” muttered Fred, “because I am not going in the war zone.”

“Me either,” said Ron. There was a silent moment. Then both Fred and Ron - their arms pulled across their chests - looked at George. He was staring at Abigail who was trying her best at a puppy dog look. If he looked at his brothers she knew it was all over – he would stay and not help.

“George,” growled Fred.

“I-” said George, not taking his eyes off Abigail, “I” he finally glanced at his two brothers. Hermione was glaring at Ron who was avoiding her eyes. “I’ll help,” he whispered. There was a definite look of disappointment on Fred’s face.

“That’s great!” Bill clapped George on the shoulders. “I’m glad not all my little brothers turned out to be chickens.”

“You’re afraid of mum too and you know it,” muttered Ron.

“Well, let’s get to work then,” said Bill. “Girls, how about you go in the kitchen and we’ll bring the dishes in and you can wash them?” Abigail shrugged.

“Sure,” she stood and made to leave.

“I’ll come too,” said George. The boys all stared at him, “incase mum’s yelling at Charlie in the kitchen or something.” He took Abigail’s hand and led them all toward the house.


George opened the kitchen door with some trepidation. Oddly enough, however, the house was quiet.

“Do you think they’ve left?” Abigail asked as they stepped inside.

“Probably not,” said George, “mum’s probably cast a silencing charm on a room or something.”

“Oh,” said Abigail.

“Alright,” said Hermione, “Where’s the soap George?” He pointed to the cabinet under the sink. A minute later Hermione had the sink full of warm soapy water.

“Do you want to wash, rinse, or dry Abby?”

“Why don’t we just use magic?” Beth asked while pulling out her wand. Hermione glanced at Abigail uncertainly. George squeezed her hand softly.

“Because I can’t,” said Abigail, “I’m a squib.” Beth and Fleur gasped.

“Are you really?” Beth asked with some amazement in her voice. Abigail nodded. “I thought you were just a muggle born, like us.”

“No,” Abigail shook her head, “I’m a squib.” There was a moment of silence between them. George squeezed Abigail’s hand again.

“Alright, now that you know, let’s get started on these dishes,” said Hermione.

“I’ll wash then,” said Beth.

“I’ll rinse,” said Fleur.

“And we can both dry,” said Hermione while looking at Abigail.

“What am I to do then?” Asked George.

“Help the boys?” Hermione suggested. George half smiled and looked out the window where the tent could be seen.

“Will you be alright?” he asked quietly while Beth started washing the posts and pans.

“Yeah,” said Abigail, “I’ll be fine.”

“Ok” he kissed her forehead softly. “I’ll be back.” Then he turned and went back out the door toward the tent.

“That was sweet,” said Hermione, “I’ve never seen George act like that before.”

“Really?” Abigail smiled, “he’s always like that with me.” Fleur handed Hermione a clean pot and she grabbed a towel and started to dry. Ten minutes later the boys all came each carrying a pile of dirty dishes - Ron and Fred included.

“How did you persuade them?” asked Hermione.

“George said mum and Charlie weren’t here,” said Bill.

“We certainly can’t hear them if they are,” said Abigail.

“Right,” Ron looked around while putting a pile of plates on the table. “They’re here somewhere.”

“Why aren’t you girls using magic?” Bill asked as he watched Beth scrub a pan. Everyone looked at Abigail. George set his pile of bowls on the table and put his arm around Abigail.

“Because Abby’s a squib,” he said confidently. Bill dropped the glasses he was carrying and it was Ron’s quick reaction that saved them from crashing to the floor.

“A squib?” Bill whispered. He looked from Abigail to George and back again.

“Yes,” Abigail nodded. “I am.”

“Wow,” he ran his fingers through his hair, “I don’t know what to say – that’s a large surprise. I’m shocked.” For some reason Abigail noted that he looked more genuinely shocked now than he had in the tent.

“It’s not that big of a deal,” said Fred. “She’s a really great person.” Abigail smiled at him.

“Yeah, just don’t mention that to mum tonight,” said Bill, “I doubt she’ll be as accepting as you are.”

“You don’t really think that do you?” Hermione asked softly.

“I agree,” said Ron, “she’s already incredibly upset with Charlie. I don’t think she needs anymore announcements.” Abigail looked at George and he at her.

“Well, she’s going to have to be told sooner or later,” he said, “And I promised Abby no more pretending. So I’m telling her.”

“Even if she gets angry?” Abigail whispered.

“Yea,” said George.

“How about we use magic to finish these dishes?” Said Bill. “The tent is clean.”

“Sure,” Abigail agreed and set the towel on the table. George took her hand and led her into the living room.

They settled down on the couch together. George put his arm around Abigail and she was oddly comforted. George didn’t say anything, he just stared at the orange flames dancing before them in the stone fire place. There was a vacant look across his face and a small frown on his lips.

“Are you ok?” Abigail asked after a moment. She kissed him softly on the cheek. He smiled at her but it wasn’t genuine.

“I’m still shocked,” he said dully, “and right disappointed. I always thought he’d want us at his wedding. Bill’s wedding was nice. I’m sure Percy’s will be too.” He sighed and pulled her closer to him. “I’ll bet he broke mum’s heart,” he continued softly, “I’ve never seen her speechless before.”

“I’m sure it’s alright,” said Abigail, “she’ll be fine.”

“I hope so.”

Fred came into the living room a second later. “Beth and Bill and Fleur have gone,” he informed them.

“Are all those dishes done?” Abigail asked in disbelief.

“No,” Fred smiled, “Ron and Hermione can handle it.”

“Ginny and Harry not back yet then?” Fred shook his head and sat down in the arm chair next to Abigail.

“Crazy night huh?” Fred asked.

“Yeah,” said George. “I still don’t believe it. It’s not like Charlie to do something like that.”

“Yeah,” Fred agreed.

“What are you doing in here?!” Mrs. Weasley had just come into the living room from the other side.

So ... what do you think? Wonderful? Awful? I really do apprecaite all feedback (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?t=37082&page=1&pp=30) I recieve. :tu:

A/N: BIG THANKS to UKlupinfan, beenlovespotter, Wep, and curlyfry for posting in my feedback thread (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?t=37082&page=1&pp=30) for the last chapter. It means a lot to me. And a BIG BIG THANKS to Wep for betaing this chapter. You're awesome. :tu:

For everyone else: please, if you've been reading this fanfic and have yet to leave feedback (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?t=37082&page=1&pp=30), I would love to know what you think. It really means a lot to me to get a response, good or bad. I just like to know people are interested.


Chapter Thirteen: The Truth

All three were startled and looked over at the very red faced and tousled looking Mrs. Weasley. It was very apparent she was still seething from the argument she had with Charlie.

“Nothing,” Fred mumbled. “We were just talking.”

“I thought you’d have left already,” she replied with a bit of edge to her voice.

“We were cleaning up,” said George. “Ron and Hermione are just doing the last of it.”

“Hermione?” Mrs. Weasley’s face went, if possible, redder, “she is a guest. Why aren’t you two helping?”

“We were,” said Fred, “but they can handle it.”

Mrs. Weasley put her hands on her hips. “You two should be helping. Hermione shouldn’t be cleaning up around here.”

“She’s practically family anyway,” said Fred with a playful smirk.

“Fred Weasley!” Shouted his mother, “I don’t believe you! This really isn’t the time for joking around young man! But I don’t know of a time when you’ve ever been serious, so what difference does it make? Just get in that kitchen and help out or go home! Why don’t you do something for once instead of sitting on your lazy ****!” There was a brief flicker of hurt in his eyes before Fred stood up.

“I’m going, I’m going,” he grumbled as he left the room, “not that you ever want me around anyway.”

Abigail watched him go then turned her attention back to Mrs. Weasley. She was staring at her other son - her hands were still on her hips - her foot was tapping impatiently.

“Well?” She finally broke the uncomfortable silence.

“What?” asked George innocently.

“Why aren’t you following your brother’s example?”

George looked at Abigail and then back to his mother. “I can’t,” he said softly.

“What do you mean?” She growled.

“I don’t want to make Abby feel uncomfortable,” he replied.

“How would helping with the dishes make Abby feel uncomfortable? I am sure she doesn't mind doing household chores, do you sweetheart?”

Abigail nodded. Yes, actually, she did enjoy cooking and cleaning - without the use of magic.

“I don’t understand,” said Mrs. Weasley, “If she likes doing it, she can easily help out.”

“No, she can’t.”

“Well of course she can,” Mrs. Weasley replied, “Merlin knows no one around here will stop her.”

“No mum, she can’t.” He looked at her imploringly. As though wishing he didn’t have to say what he knew he had to say.

“What do you mean George?” It was obvious Mrs. Weasley was growing angry and impatient. That was enough beating around the bush. Abigail took matters into her own hands.

“I can’t because I’m a squib Mrs. Weasley,” she said quickly, “I can’t do magic.” Mrs. Weasley sank into the chair vacated by Fred. There was a glossy look of disbelief in her eyes - like this was just too much for her.

“Maybe you’d better go into the kitchen,” said George quietly. “I can deal with my mum.”

“Are you sure?”

“Yeah,” he kissed her forehead then Abigail stood and went into the kitchen where Ron and Fred were seated at the kitchen table.

“Did you tell her?” Fred asked as Abigail entered. She nodded and took a seat across from him.

“I don’t hear any yelling,” said Ron, “You didn’t kill her did you?”

“No, I think she’s in shock,” said Abigail.

“Probably too much for the poor woman to take in one night,” said Fred.

“Yeah,” Abigail agreed. “How’s Ginny?”

“Don’t know,” said Ron, “I haven’t seen her.” He put his elbow on the table and rested his chin in the palm of his hand. “I knew tonight was going to be a disaster.” He said gloomily. “I wish I had gone to Dean’s party instead.”

“Yeah,” Fred agreed. “We should have known. Nights like this always end in disaster.” Abigail looked longingly at the door to the living room. “Would you like to hear what’s going on in there?” Fred asked as though he’d read her mind. Abigail looked at him.

“Is that possible?”

“Yeah,” he grinned, “Percy’s old room is right above here and there are some cracks in the floor.”

“Alright.”

Fred jumped up and led Abigail to Percy’s old room. It was dark but he lit the candles with a flick of his wand.

“Over here,” he pushed an old desk out of the way and there in the floor was a small hole. “If you lay on the floor and put your ear up to it, you can hear really well.”

“Ok,” Abigail lay on her stomach and put her ear to the floor.

“... but a squib George?” Mrs. Weasley was saying.

“I’ll leave you alone then,” said Fred and he backed out of the room.

“What do you care mum? It doesn’t change the fact that I love her,” George replied.

“George, you can’t possibly love something like that.”

“Don’t you dare insult her like that ever again!” He bellowed, “She is a living, breathing, human being whom I love and you will not talk about her like anything less!”

“You can’t possibly love someone like that George!”

“Someone like what?” He growled.

“Someone who doesn’t belong in our world son. She’s too different from us. She can’t survive with us. Why do you think she lives in the muggle world?”

“I don’t care,” he replied, “We can make it work.”

“No George, you can’t. They can’t live in our world. Do you know what people will say when they find out?”

“I don’t care what anyone else thinks.”

“You can’t make this work George! She’s not strong enough!” Mrs. Weasley yelled in frustration.

“You don’t even know her!” George shouted, “How do you know where she can and cannot survive? You’ve barely said two words to her all evening.”

“I don’t have to know her George. Squibs are not welcome in our world! You know that! I know you do. I cannot believe you got yourself involved with one! Of all the nice witches you know you had to find the one squib living in London to claim to be in love with!”

“I am in love with her!” Abigail had never heard George yell like this before.

“You barely know her! You said so yourself!” Mrs. Weasley sounded angry and frustrated.

“That doesn’t mean I don’t know love when I feel it!”

“Oh, you’re just like your brother! I didn’t raise my children to make irrational decisions on a whim!”

“I did not make any irrational decisions!” George bellowed.

“Wanting to be with a squib is irrational George! Why do you insist on making your life so difficult?”

“She is not making my life difficult, you are!” He roared.

“You cannot be in love with that girl and that’s all there is to it!”

“Well I don’t care what you say!” There were thundering footsteps across the room. “I love her and we’re going to be together-” The door to the room opened with a loud creak, “-whether you like it or not! So just get used to it!” Then the door slammed causing Abigail to jump up from the floor.

“Where’s Abby?” She heard George’s voice in the kitchen ask. Abigail left the room quickly and flew down the stairs.

“I’m coming,” she called.

“Are you ready to go?” He asked, once she appeared at the foot of the stairs. His entire face was red and he looked angrier than she’d ever seen him.

“Yes,” she answered.

“Come on then,” he led her over to the fireplace. He violently threw some floo powder into it.

“Bye,” said Ron whom was sitting at the table by himself, as George stepped into the green flames.

“Bye,” said Abigail before George pulled her in with him.

“The Lair,” he bellowed.



They stepped out of the fire place at George’s house and George paced the room angrily. Not a moment later Fred apparated in causing Abigail to jump.

“Do you believe her?” George asked his twin.

“Yeah, she was way out of line tonight,” said Fred.

“You were listening?” Abigail asked Fred.

“There’s more than one way to listen to a conversation in that room.” He grinned.

“What do you mean?” George asked Fred.

“I told her how to hear what was going on.”

“You what?” George raged. “There’s a reason I asked her to leave the room! I knew mum wouldn’t be happy! I didn’t want her to hear that!”

“Well I did,” said Abigail, “And I don’t care.” She walked over and wrapped her arms around George. “Thanks for standing up for me.” George’s breathing slowly evened and it seemed as though the anger was coming out of him.

“You shouldn’t have had to hear that,” he said softly, “she’s not usually like that.”

“I think you picked a bad night to drop the bombshell on her,” said Fred.

“I told you so.” All three people in the living room turned to the kitchen where Bill was standing in the doorway - grinning brightly at them.

“What are you doing here?” Said Fred while pointing at his older brother.

“It’s Halloween,” said Bill, “You didn’t really think I’d just go home did you?”

“So you came over here instead?” Fred asked.

“We knew you’d be here soon enough,” Bill answered with a shrug.

“We?” George raised an eyebrow at his older brother. “Who else do have with you?”

“Me,” Bill stepped aside to reveal a black-eyed Charlie behind him.

“What happened to your eye?” Fred shouted.

“Percy,” grumbled Charlie. “I guess all those years of beating up on him actually taught him a thing or two.” The three people in the living room moved into the kitchen to find Alex and Fleur seated at the kitchen table.

“What the hell do you mean Percy?” Fred asked while examining his brother.

“I mean Percy,” replied Charlie.

“He attacked him,” said Bill with amusement in his voice.

“What?” Both Fred and George bellowed. Abigail took a seat next to Fleur at the table.

“Just after he sent the Clearwater’s on their way, he came into the house as we were leaving and jumped on me. Dad had to pull him off and drag him outside,” said Charlie. “He was raving like a lunatic. Said I always ruin everything for him and now he hates my guts.”

“I’ll kill him,” said Fred.

“Don’t worry,” Charlie replied, “I’m certain he looks worse than I do - the little git never really learned how to fight.”

“So this night turned out pretty exciting,” Abigail commented as though she was talking about nothing more than the weather.

“I’ll say,” said George as he sat down next to her.

“There’s no way we can do anything now,” said Fred. “Our night has already been too exciting to top with anything.” They all laughed a little.

“So what happened after we left?” Asked Charlie. He conjured a chair out of thin air and took a seat on it. Fred and Bill followed his lead.

“Ginny ran off crying,” said George, “You really upset her.”

“Oh I know,” he waved his hand, “Bill told me. I mean with you two-” he smiled at Abby, “-and mum. Bill told me you were going to tell her the news. How mad was she? You already said she said things she shouldn’t have. So what did she say?”

George frowned at his older brother before saying, “You always did like the details when you weren’t the one getting yelled at. Why don’t you share first?”

“She basically said I’m an ungrateful son who has disgraced our family and she doesn’t think she can ever look at me again,” Alex reached over and patted Charlie’s hand softly. He half-smiled at her.

“Ouch,” said Fred. “If it makes you feel any better she called me a lazy joke who never does anything.”

“What did you do to deserve that?” Alex asked with a confused look on her face.

Fred shrugged then said, “Nothing,” and everyone laughed. “I was just sitting there.”

“So what did she say to you then?” Charlie asked George.

George looked at Abigail then shook his head. “I don’t want to repeat any of it.” Charlie looked at Abigail then back to George.

“Come on,” he said, “We’re all family now. You know how mum is. She always yells at us then apologizes and everything is fine. She never really means it. You know that.”

“No,” George shook his head. “Not this time. I don’t think I’ll ever be able to forgive her.”

“That bad?” Bill looked at Fred.

Fred nodded. “It was pretty bad,” he looked at Abigail with a sorrowful expression. “But I don’t think she meant any of it.”

“She meant it,” said George, “You didn’t see the look on her face. How can she be so stubborn? She’s always told me she wants me to be happy. So I’ve finally found the person who makes me truly happy and she’s not satisfied. Well I don’t care what she thinks.”

“You don’t mean that,” said Bill.

“Yes I do,” replied George fiercely. “I don’t care that you’re a squib.” Abigail looked up into his big brown eyes, “I like going bike riding and eating in muggle restaurants.” The others exchanged quizzical glances for a moment.

“Well,” Charlie smiled at Fred then turned to George, “since I’m on mum’s **** list,” he grinned, “Alex and I sort of need a place to stay.”

“What’s wrong with Bill’s house?”

Abigail seemed to be the only one who saw the brief exchange between Charlie and Bill.

“They don’t have room,” said Alex.

“Why not?” Fred asked, “I know for a fact you have a spare bedroom.”

Bill and Fleur looked at each other. “We don’t have a spare room anymore,” said Bill.

Fred frowned at his brother. “Why not?” Abigail thought the answer to this question was rather obvious by now.

“It seems Percy, Charlie, and George weren’t the only ones with surprises for tonight,” she commented.

“What do you mean?” Fred asked turning to face her.

“You’re quite observant,” Charlie complimented with a grin. “Go on and tell them,” he said nudging his older brother.

“I wanted to tell everyone together,” said Bill, “But after you blurted out about your marriage, I didn’t think it was appropriate.”

“If someone doesn’t tell us what’s going on …” Fred growled menacingly.

Bill and Fleur exchanged another brief glance.

... :evil: haha! Hope no one hurt themselves on this small cliff hanger. If you're that upset about it post in my feedback thread (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?t=37082&page=1&pp=30) and maybe I'll post the next half soon. :tu:

A/N: Thanks to all of you lovely people who left me feedback (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?t=37082&page=1&pp=30): UKlupinfan, beenlovespotter, curlyfry, Kola_Pup and Wep. I meant to post this yesterday but if you tried to access the forums you know why I couldn't. :rotfl: Sorry you had to wait an extra day! Anyway, here you go I hope you enjoy. :D

Chapter Thriteen: The Truth (Part II)

“I’m pregnant,” said Fleur, causing Fred and George both to gasp.

Abigail beamed that she had figured it out. “Congratulations,” she said to Fleur.

“Thank you,” Fleur replied.

“Wow,” said George, “this has definitely been a crazy night. What kind of secrets are you hiding Fred?” Everyone in the room turned expectantly to Fred.

“Nothing,” he replied raising his hands in the air. “I seem to be the only honest person in the room.”

“What about Ron and Ginny- what are they hiding?” George asked.

Charlie grinned, “Let’s hope nothing. I don’t think mum can take much more.”

“Yeah,” Fred agreed.

“So why don’t you find a hotel?” Fred asked bringing the conversation back to its starting point.

“That’s the purpose of having a big family,” said Charlie, “we should never have to pay for hotels.”

“You can stay in the spare bedroom,” George replied.

“Thanks little bro,” said Charlie while standing.

“How long are you in town for?” Fred asked.

“Don’t know,” Charlie shrugged, “but we’ll let you know.”

“I bet,” Fred grumped. “Hey, how did you get into our house anyway?” He asked as everyone stood up.

“The key was under the doormat,” said Bill from his seat. “You aren’t going to bed now are you?”

“I’m tired,” said Charlie with a large fake yawn.

“You would be after getting the **** beat out of you by Percy,” laughed Bill.

“Hey,” Charlie barked, “no **** came out of me,” everyone laughed, “maybe some out of Percy but none out of me.”

“Right,” Bill and Fleur stood with the rest. “I suppose we’ll go over to Ginny’s and see how she is.”

“Good idea,” said Charlie, “Tell her I’ll stop by tomorrow.”

“She’s really upset,” said George.

“I knew she would be,” Charlie sighed. He put his arm around Alex and kissed the top of her head. She grinned up at him.

“Good night then,” Bill and Fleur went to the front door and disapparated.

“I’ll show you to the spare room,” said Fred as he levitated Charlie and Alex’s suitcases and headed upstairs.

“I guess you want to go home?” George asked Abigail after everyone else was out of the room.

“Not really,” she replied with a coy smile, “but I have school in the morning.”

“Yeah,” he took her hand and led her to the front door. “I’m sorry this night turned out so badly.” He said softly as he opened the front door and led her outside.

“It wasn’t any worse than Sunday lunch at my house,” she grinned at him. “Only, you weren’t the one fighting this time.”

“Yeah,” he smiled, “I forgot all about that. I guess we’re even for messed up family gatherings.”

“Agreed,” she stepped outside and they walked down to her car hand-in-hand.

“I’m really sorry for what my mum said about you,” said George quietly.

“It’s alright,” she grinned, “I’ve gotten a lot worse reactions than that.”

“See you later then?”

“Yeah,” he kissed her gently then she got in her car and drove home thinking about the crazy night she had just experienced.


When Abigail got back to her apartment she relayed everything that happened after they left to Susan and Lucas. She didn’t, however, tell them what Mrs. Weasley said about her. There was no point in upsetting them.

“Percy jumped Charlie?” Lucas asked, “He’s a barking lunatic. Charlie could flatten Percy.”

“Yeah,” said Abigail, “he was really upset. I suppose he wasn’t thinking clearly.”

“Obviously,” said Susan.

“Well, I’m knackered,” Abigail yawned while getting up off the couch. “I’m going to bed.”

“Night,” said Lucas.

Thirty minutes later Abigail was far away in dream world.

She was being pulled out of her hiding place in the ground by a woman she for the first time she now recognized as her Aunt Amelia. She quickly turned her head to the figure on the floor and tears gushed from her eyes.

“Mummy!” She screamed wiggling to get away from her Aunt. “Mummy!” She screamed again. Unable to hold the trashing child any longer Amelia had no choice but to let her go. As soon as she hit the ground Abigail ran across the room where her mum lay on the ground. “Mummy,” she said through her sobs, “wake up mummy!” Abigail tugged on her mum’s robes.

“Abby,” said Amelia from close behind her. Abigail turned to look up at her Aunt but her eyes fell upon the face of the figure lying next to her mother.

“Daddy!” She shrieked. She crawled over to him desperately and shook his arm violently – tears were pouring down her cheeks. “Daddy!” She screamed, “Daddy, get up!”

“Abby,” Amelia wrapped her arms around Abigail and pulled her into a tight embrace.

“Mummy,” she sobbed into her Aunt’s chest, “Wake up.”

“Shhh,” said Amelia. “It’s alright, baby.”

“I want my daddy,” sobbed Abigail.

Abigail woke with a start. She sat straight up in her bed - her cheeks were wet with tears but she could not get the image of those two people out of her mind. They were her aunt and uncle – her father’s dead brother and his wife. She was sure of it.

Without another thought Abigail threw her covers off herself, put on some jeans and a sweatshirt – went into the living room and threw some floo powder into the fire.


“Kenneth Bones!” She screamed at the top of her lungs as she stepped out of the fireplace in her parent's kitchen. She walked through the kitchen and began to stomp up the stairs.

“Abby?” Abigail stopped about halfway up the stairs at the sight of her father’s head was peeking out of his bedroom. “What are you doing here?”

“We need to talk,” she replied. “Now!”

“Alright,” he stepped out into the hall – Abigail had already turned around and made her way back to the kitchen.

“What’s this about?” Her father asked as he met her there a few seconds later. Abigail looked behind her father expecting her bleary eyed mother to be there. She was surprised however to find that she wasn’t.

“Where’s mum?”

Kenneth gulped and ran his fingers through his messy hair. “Not here,” he replied, “She moved out.”

“What?”

“We were fighting,” he replied, “and she left. We can contact her if you’d like,”

“But you never fight,” said Abigail, “how could she have left?” Kenneth didn’t answer his daughter. He simply walked to the fireplace and threw some powder in it.

“Janine Bones,” he said loudly.

They waited a moment then her mother’s head appeared in the fireplace.

“What do you want at this hour?” Mrs. Bones’ barked.

“Your daughter is here and wants to speak with you.” A moment later Abigail watched as her mother climbed out of the fireplace.

“This had better be good,” she said while taking a seat at the kitchen table. Kenneth sat next to her. Abigail paced in front of them.

“First of all,” she said while stopping. “What were you fighting about?” Janine and Kenneth exchanged a glance.

“You,” said her father in a low voice. Abigail frowned.

“Alright then,” she took a deep breath, “I want to know why I’m dreaming about the night your brother died and why I am calling him dad in those dreams.” Kenneth’s face went pale and Janine stared at her husband. “I figured out what those dreams were about,” said Abigail also looking at her father, “You told me they were just dreams. But you knew they weren’t didn’t you?” Kenneth didn’t move – he couldn’t. He stared transfixed at the young woman in front of him.

“I-” he began but then looked at his wife, “We,” he corrected himself, “never wanted you to find out about it this way.”

“Well I did,” Abigail replied angrily, “So tell me just what the bloody hell is going on.”

“Sit down,” Mr. Bones commanded while gesturing toward the only vacant chair. Abigail did as she was told. “This actually has a lot to do with what we were fighting about,” he said with a look at his wife. She glared back at him.

“I told you we should have told her a long time ago,” she hissed.

“Just tell me already!” Abigail said exasperatedly.

“Those aren’t dreams you’re having,” said her father, “they’re memories.”

“I assumed as much,” said Abigail pulling her arms across her chest. “Are you telling me I witnessed their murders?”

Mr. Bones nodded slowly, “Yes sweetheart,” he whispered, “you witnessed that.”

“Then why am I only seeing it now?” She asked, “Why haven’t I been dreaming about it before?”

“We had your memory modified.” Abigail gasped and pulled her hands to her mouth.

“We did it for your own good,” said Mrs. Bones, “we couldn’t watch you suffer night after night with the nightmares about it. None of us ever got any sleep it was terrible.”

“The healers warned us your memory might come back,” said Mr. Bones, “but we had to do something. It was horrible watching you cry at night.”

“I don’t understand,” said Abigail suddenly, “why was I there in the first place? And why was I calling Uncle Edgar dad and Aunt Caroline mum?”

“Abby,” Mr. Bones put a gentle hand over his daughters. “You know that your mum and I love you.” Abigail frowned at her father and the pleading look in his eyes, “But-” he glanced at his wife, “we’re not your birth parents.” Abigail gasped again.

“Do you mean that they – Edgar and Caroline – they were my-”

“Parents,” said Kenneth with a nod. “We adopted you soon after they died.” Tears welled up in Abigail’s eyes.

“And you’ve been lying to me all this time?”

“We had to,” he replied, “We didn’t feel you were ready to know the truth.”

“I’m twenty-one years old dad!” She shouted, “You could have found the time before now to tell me.”

“I know,” he replied still staring into her eyes. “I know I should have told you sooner, but I couldn’t. I love you too much.”

“So you just let me have these awful nightmares about Death Eaters killing my parents? And you knew that’s what it was about but you didn’t say anything!”

“We were going to tell you,” there was desperation in his voice, “Please Abby, I love you. I never meant to hurt you.” Abigail glanced at her mother whose face was void of any emotion.

“Is this why you don’t love me?” She spat angrily. Janine Bones looked at Abigail for a moment.

“Don’t you talk to me like that,” she snapped, “Kenneth and I took you in out of the goodness of our hearts – when no one else would. It’s not my fault. You’re not my child. I never wanted children.” Abigail felt her heart break.

“How can you say that?” Kenneth rounded on his wife. “She’s more your child than Caroline’s.”

“Don’t patronize me!” Mrs. Bone’s screamed, “You knew before we took her in that I didn’t like children! Why you couldn’t have left her at the orphanage I’ll-”

“WHAT?” Abigail’s angry scream cut across her mother’s words. Kenneth looked at Abigail with fear in his eyes. Janine had her hand over her mouth. “What do you mean?” Abigail growled.

Kenneth closed his eyes and sighed, “I suppose now is just as good a time as any to tell you,” he opened his eyes to glare at his wife then looked back at Abigail, “We almost put you up for adoption.”

Abigail didn’t know she could feel this devastated.

“We took you to the orphanage,” said Mr. Bones, “about a month after they died,” there were tears welling in his eyes, “But I couldn’t leave you,” his voice broke, “when we were leaving you cried out to me. You kept saying, ‘don’t leave me’ and tears were pouring down your face.”

Abigail tore her eyes from her father’s eyes and looked at her mother. Janine was glaring at her husband. She felt Abigail’s gaze on her and looked over at her.

“He scooped you into his arms,” she said coldly, “and said he couldn’t leave you. I saw the love in his eyes.” She glanced back at her husband, “and I knew he loved you more than he could ever love me.”

“That’s not true,” said Kenneth with feeling. “I love you both equally.”

“No you don’t,” she spat, “you’ve always loved her more.”

“How can you say that?”

“Because it’s true,” she shouted, “And you know it!”

For some unknown reason Abigail let out an uncontrollable sob from the back of her throat. Kenneth and Janine took their eyes off each other and looked at her. Tears were pouring down her face.

“I can’t believe this,” she whispered.

“I’m so sorry you had to find out like this,” said Kenneth as he placed a hand over hers. “Merlin I’m sorry baby.”

“I don’t know what to do,” Abigail’s head was pounding. How could this be true? How could they do this to her? Why had they hid this huge secret from her?

“You don’t have to do anything,” he replied, “just because we’re not your biological parents doesn’t mean we don’t love you.”

“I know you love me dad,” she replied then glared at her mother, “and I wish the same was true for you.”

Janine’s eyes seemed to soften as Abigail gazed into them.

“I tried,” she said in a strangled voice.

“I have to go,” Abigail stood suddenly and walked toward the fire. Kenneth followed and before she could reach the floo powder he pulled her into a tight hug.

“I’m sorry,” he whispered in her ear.

“Me too,” she replied softly.

“This doesn’t mean I don’t love you.”

“I know.”

Not five minutes later Abigail was sitting on her bed, sobbing her eyes out. This was just too much for her to process. She glanced at the clock on her wall – 2 am. Would he be awake? It didn’t matter he would talk to her. She grabbed her purse and drove to the one person’s house who she knew would understand.

Good? Bad? PLEASE LET ME KNOW! (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?t=37082&page=1&pp=30) :tu:

A/N: Hey guys. I'm so glad you stopped by to read this. Or if you've been reading it from the beginning I'm glad you've made it this far. What would make me extremely happy is if you let me know you've been reading my story by posting in my feedback thread (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?t=37082&page=1&pp=30). :tu:
On another note: I just got a new job. Which means I will not have as much time to write and update as I usually do. That means that instead of getting a new chapter every week it will probably be every two weeks. :upset: However - *IMPORTANT NOTE* - My last day of classes this semester is April 29th. And I sincerly doubt I will be doing school this summer term. So that means I'll have the summer to work (make money for me) and write (for you). :clap:
So - enjoy this chapter because it'll probably be two weeks before the next one is up. OH!! And watch your footing at the end. There's a big cliff :evil:

Chapter Fourteen: More Secrets Revealed

By the time Abigail arrived at Jonathon’s house she was much calmer then she had been when she left. She pounded loud and frantically on his front door hoping to wake him should he be asleep.

“Happy Halloween,” he said through a stifled yawn once the door was open. This was not what she was expecting but she smiled at him away. He was wearing only his boxers and his hair was very messy.

“Did I wake you?” She asked while he rubbed his eyes.

“No,” he answered sarcastically, “What are you doing here?”

“I really need to talk to you.”

“And it couldn’t wait till morning?”

“No,” he eyed her suspiciously for a moment.

“Well come in then,” he opened the door further and she stepped inside.

“Ali, Abby’s here,” he called loudly in the direction of the closed bedroom door.

“Allison’s here?” Abigail asked.

Jonathon nodded and took a seat on the couch gesturing for her to do the same. She sat in the armchair instead.

“What’s so important you had to wake me up at two thirty in the morning for?”

“I was just at my parents house,” Jonathon looked at the clock on the stove and then to his watch.

“At this hour?”

“Can I tell you my story or not?” She was a bit ruder than she intended to be but she was really upset.

“By all means,” he gestured for her to continue.

“Well I’ve been having this weird dream lately,” she continued, “And so I went to my parent’s house to get answers and - first of all they’re separated.”

“Your parents?” He asked incredulously.

“Yeah,” she replied, “they’ve apparently been fighting for some time now and I didn’t even know.”

“Is that what you’re upset about Abs? You know they won’t-”

“No,” she interrupted, “That’s not why I came here.”

“Oh,” he nodded.

“I came here because they told me that they’re not my real parents,” Jonathon gasped, “my real parents are my dad’s brother Edgar and his wife Caroline, but they died when I was three so my mum and dad adopted me.”

“Oh my God,” Jonathon mumbled.

“That’s not the worst part,” said Abigail feeling the stings of tears again, “I witnessed their murders. I was there when it happened. My parent’s modified my memory so I wouldn’t remember but I’ve been dreaming about it for weeks now and I figured it out earlier tonight.”

“Holy sh*t Abby,” Jonathon got off the couch and knelt before her. Then he pulled her into a very tight embrace. “No wonder you look so frazzled.”

“I don’t know what to do,” Abigail said quietly, “I mean my mum practically admitted that she’s been jealous of me my entire life. She said she doesn’t love me.” With the last statement Abigail was unable to hold back her tears any longer. “All I ever wanted was her love.”

“I know,” said Jonathon soothingly, “I’m sorry.”

“I don’t know if I can trust them anymore. What else have they been hiding from me?”

“You mean you trusted them again after they sent you to France?” Jonathon had pulled away from her a bit and was now looking her in the eyes.

She shrugged, “I never really stopped trusting them.”

“Jesus Abby,” he sighed angrily, “I love your dad. I do. He’s a great guy, but you know how I feel about your mum. You shouldn’t have ever trusted her in the first place. Not after not telling you about Elise. Did they finally admit to it?” Abigail pushed roughly away from Jonathon and stood.

“I came here for comfort not for you to attack me,” she accused.

“I’m not attacking you. I’m trying to understand.”

“No,” she said bitterly, “They didn’t mention Elise, and I didn’t bring it up either.”

“So they still haven’t told you the complete truth?”

“No,” she sighed, “and I don’t know how much else they’re hiding.”

“Why don’t you go back tomorrow and confront them?” He got to his feet slowly.

She sighed deeply, “I suppose it’s the only way isn’t it?”

He nodded in agreement, “You have such a rough life,” he said quietly, “and I feel so bad for you.”

“Don’t,” she said sharply “I don’t need your pity.”

There was a moment of silence between them. Both of them were deeply immersed in their thoughts.

“Do you want to stay here tonight?” He asked, “I can make up the couch.”

She nodded, “That would be nice.”


The following morning Abigail woke abruptly to the sound of her mobile ringing somewhere near her. She fumbled around for her purse and eventually found it.

“Hello?” She mumbled.

“Abby?”

“Susan?” Abigail asked in confusion. “Why are you calling me on my mobile?”

“Where are you Abby?”

“I’m at Jonathon’s. Why?” She sat up – Susan sounded worried.

“Where is she?” Abigail heard a distinctly male voice in the background.

“Your dad came here last night,” said Susan, “he said he needed to talk to you. When we discovered you weren’t here we went to George’s and when you weren’t there either we got worried.” Abigail sighed. “I’ve been calling your friends all morning from your address book. None of them have been answering-”

“Where is she Susan?” Whoever was in the background sounded much more urgent this time.

“It’s a school day,” Abigail explained, “most of them are on campus all day and the majority of them leave their mobiles off.”

“Well, you should get here soon,”

“Susan, let me talk to her.”

“Who is that?” Abigail asked.

“It’s-” but before she finished her sentence Abigail found out who it was all on her own.

“ABBY?” Abigail yanked the phone away from her ear. Why did he have to yell like that?

“Merlin George, you don’t need to shout,” she reprimanded.

“WHERE ARE YOU?”

“Stop yelling!”

“ARE YOU ALRIGHT?”

“Will you stop yelling?!”

“You don’t have to yell George,” Abigail heard Susan’s voice.

“Abby,” Abigail looked up to see a tired looking Jonathon standing in the doorway of his bed room. “It’s nine o’clock in the morning who are you bloody yelling at?”

“It’s George,” she replied while covering the bottom of the phone, “he doesn’t know how to use the phone.”

“Doesn’t know how?” Allison had appeared next to Jonathon. “How does he not know how to use the phone?”

“It’s a long story,” said Jonathon while giving Abigail a glare.

“ABBY?” Abigail jumped and nearly fell off the couch.

“George, give the phone back to Susan!” she ordered.

“Hello?” It was Susan.

“Why did you do that?” Abigail barked, “You know how he is.”

“He grabbed it from me,” said Susan defensively. “He wanted to make sure you’re alright.”

“I’m fine.”

“She’s fine George.”

“Tell him I’ll be home in thirty minutes,” said Abigail.

“Alright,” said Susan.

“Bye,” said Abigail and she turned her phone off. Allison was giving her a very strange look.

“Er-” Abigail smiled, “I didn’t mean to wake you up.”

“Don’t you have classes today?” Jonathon asked while glancing at the clock on the wall.

“I’m not going.”

“Can you afford to not go when it’s so close to finals?” Allison asked kindly.

Abigail sighed, “Finals aren’t until December,”

“It’s November,” said Jonathon, “that’s only two weeks.”

“Which is plenty of time to catch up for missing one class,” Abigail replied.

“Are you going to talk to them today then?” Jonathon asked. At first she didn’t understand what he meant. Then the events of the previous night clicked and she understood.

“Yeah,” she replied after a glance at Allison. “Dad was at the apartment last night. That’s why Susan rang.”

“Did you have a row?” Allison questioned in a sweet tone.

Abigail nodded, “yeah, that’s why I’m here.”

“Well,” Jonathon yawned, “you should probably go if you want to make it back to your place in half an hour.”

“Yeah,” Abigail agreed and began slipping on her shoes. “Thanks for letting me stay here.”

“It’s not a problem,” he replied, “ring me later and let me know how it goes.”

“Alright,” she gave him a brief hug before leaving and heading back to her flat.


When she finally made it back, a full 45 minutes after she left, Abigail felt exhausted. Upon entering her apartment she found Susan and Lucas, both in their pajamas, sitting at the kitchen counter drinking coffee and no sign of George.

“Nice timing,” said Susan, “George just left for the shop.”

Abigail nodded, “I guess I’ll go visit him there then,” she wasn’t really in the mood to talk to Susan.

“Why were you at Jonathon’s?” Susan persisted, “Your dad was certain you would want to see George. He said you and he fought, but he didn’t say what about.”

Abigail shrugged, “We just had a bit of a disagreement that’s all,” she lied, “and Jonathon is my best mate.”

“You don’t normally visit him in the middle of the night,” Susan said as she sipped on her coffee.

“How would you know?” Abigail snapped, “You obviously didn’t know I went out last night. Are you keeping tabs on me?”

“You don’t have to get all snappy,” Susan replied, “I was just worried about you.”

“Well you don’t need to be,” Abigail was always agitated when she didn’t get much sleep. Right now she was running on about 5 hours. It wasn’t easy to get a good night’s sleep on a lumpy couch. “I can take care of myself.”

“So you claim,” said Susan icily.

“What does that mean?”

“Nothing,” Susan sighed, “I didn’t mean anything,”

“Yes you did,” Abigail replied, “Are you claiming that I can’t take care of myself?”

“Well the last time you had a confrontation with a wizard I don’t seem to remember you taking care of yourself!” Susan had tears in her eyes.

“That’s not fair!” Abigail shouted, “And you know it! Just because I can’t do magic does not mean that I can’t take care of myself!”

“Obviously you can’t or we wouldn’t have had to come save you!”

“You didn’t come and save anyone!” Abigail screamed, “You let others do it for you!”

“I don’t know why I even bother with you sometimes! You don’t listen to anyone! And you’re never truthful with me! I may be two years younger than you but I’m not stupid!”

“I don’t know why you bother either! Do you feel sorry for your poor cousin who’s a squib? Do you think you’re better than me because you have everything and I have nothing?”

“You have everything!” Susan shrieked, “I’m the one with nothing! At least the love of your life is still a live!”

“Maybe Justin would still be if you had come to check on me that night instead of sending him! It’s not my fault he’s gone!”

“Yes it is!” She screamed, “If you hadn’t gotten involved with that stupid bloody boy that night never would have happened!”

“Maybe you should have warned me about him!”

“Well you don’t listen to anyone anyway!”

“It’s not my fault he died and you’re not going to keep blaming it on me!” With the Abigail stormed into her bedroom – slamming the door as hard as possible.

After showering and changing into wizarding robes Abigail used the floo network to get to Diagon Alley. Her car was low on gas and it was more convenient despite the sickening feeling. She flooed straight into the storage room of Fred and George’s shop. She took a few deep calming breaths before going anywhere. She was still worked up about Susan but she didn’t need George to know that.

Had she known who was out in the shop at that moment she probably would have gone back home immediately. As she did not have any way of knowing Abigail stepped out of the storage room and looked around for George. The store was more crowded than she thought it would be on a week day.

“Abby?” Abigail froze in mid-step and closed her eyes. She recognized that voice. Oh Merlin let her have imagined it. “Abigail Bones?” No, she hadn’t imagined it. Very slowly – as slowly as humanly possible - Abigail turned around. Not a moment later she felt strong arms around her that she hadn’t seen or felt in a very long time.

“Hi,” she got out weakly – still in shock. Over his shoulder Abigail saw George. He was looking at her with the most peculiar expression on his face. She smiled at him and he started toward her.

“I haven’t seen you in forever!” The man with his arms around her exclaimed.

“I know,” Abigail replied.

“Well, how are you?” Abigail didn’t get the chance to answer because someone else interrupted the conversation.

“Oliver?” George asked from behind him.

Oh Merlin. They know each other!

“Hiya George!” Oliver Wood exclaimed.

Oh Merlin. He knows the twins well enough to tell them apart!

“What are you doing here?” George asked with a glance at Abigail that Oliver caught.

“Well I ran into Percy last week while at the ministry. So I thought I’d stop by and see how my two favorite Weasley twins were doing.” George grinned until Oliver continued. “Do you know Abigail Bones, George?”

“George and I are dating Oliver,” said Abigail before George could answer. Oliver looked between them for a moment. He decided to question Abigail first.

“So you not with-”

“No,” Abigail interrupted him, “no, we broke up a long time ago.” George gave her a quizzical glance which she ignored.

“Well I’m glad to hear that,” said Oliver, “Tell me you dropped him and it’ll make my day.”

“Yeah,” she lied, “I dropped him.”

“That’s great,” Oliver simply beamed, “you know how I’ve always felt about that arrogant two-faced right little bas-”

“Are you still with Alicia?” Abigail interrupted Oliver’s rant. George furrowed his brow and looked from Abigail to Oliver curiously.

“Er-” Oliver suddenly seemed uncomfortable, “no,” he shook his head and glanced at George, “that didn’t exactly end well either.” Abigail noticed George was frowning at Oliver.

“I’m sorry,” Abigail replied and she truly was.

“Can I talk to you for a second?” George asked Abigail while grabbing onto her arm.

“Yeah,” she agreed even though she really had no choice.

“Excuse us Oliver, we’ll be back in a minute if you want to hang around,” said George as he steered Abigail toward the back room.

“Sure,” Oliver happily called after them.

As soon as they were inside and the door closed Abigail got an ominous feeling in the pit of her stomach. “What the hell was that?” George asked with forced calmness.

“What?” she asked innocently. She truly had no idea what was wrong.

“How do you know Oliver Wood?”

Here it comes, she thought before she answered, “I grew up with him.” George stared at her for a moment while blinking excessively.

“You told me you didn’t have any wizarding friends and you grew up in a muggle village.”

Abigail gulped. “I didn’t say that.”

“Yes you did!” he yelled.

“No, I said I didn’t really have any wizarding friends and I spent a lot of time with my mum’s friend’s children. Oliver’s mum and my mum have been friends for years. They went to Hogwarts together.”

“Does he know you’re a squib?”

“No, he thinks I’m a witch.”

“So who was he talking about then that you’re not dating anymore?”

Abigail rolled her eyes, “Do we have to go back through our previous relationships George?”

“Just tell me,” he replied.

“You have to promise not to be angry.”

“Right,” he eyed her suspiciously.

Abigail took a deep breath.

Love it? :tu: Hate it? :td: PLEASE LET ME KNOW! (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?t=37082&page=1&pp=30)

A/N: Sorry for not posting this yesterday but I hope the delay is worth waiting for. :tu:
Also, a lot of what goes on between Abigail and Oliver and then Abigail and (the other person you’ll find out when you get there) is in reference to another story that I’m writing. So ... it’s not that important to plot of this story but it’s necessary for my other story. I just thought you would like to know so that you 1. are enticed to read that story 2. don't dwell on it and 3. aren't confused as to why it's there. Hope that helped clarify. If not let me know in my feedback thread (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?t=37082&page=1&pp=30). :tu:

Oh and I don't know if I really have to caution you anymore. You should be expecting it atleast by now but look out for the cliff... :evil:

Chapter Fourteen: More Secrets Revealed (Part II)

Abigail sighed deeply before answering, “Marcus Flint.”

George’s jaw dropped open and he gaped at her. “You dated Marcus Flint?!?”

“Yes,” she replied, “I grew up with him as well.”

“Why on earth would you date Marcus Flint?!?”

“He wasn’t always such a b@stard,” she answered, “at one point in his life he was sweet.”

George snorted then asked, “What changed your mind about him then?”

Abigail felt anger toward Flint building in her body. “It’s a long story,” she said simply.

“Well how long did you date for?” George pressed.

“Over a year,” she mumbled.

“Over a year?” He repeated, “Does he know you’re a squib?”

She nodded, “He dumped me when he found out.”

“I thought you said you dumped him.”

“I lied,” she answered quickly, “Oliver always hated Flint.”

“I know that,” said George, “I just didn’t know their hatred spread outside of school.”

“Yeah,” she sighed, “I’m afraid that’s partly my doing.”

“What?”

“Oliver’s always had a bit of a crush on me,” said Abigail dismissively, “and so he and Flint were constantly competing around me. It was rather annoying actually.”

“How did you keep that you’re a squib from Flint for over a year?”

“I’ve known him my whole life,” she replied, “He just thought I went to Beauxbatons like everyone else thought.”

“So what did he think you did for a job?”

“He thought I worked at the ministry.”

“Wow,” George smiled, “how did you keep the truth from him?”

“Well he’s not exactly the brightest crayon in the crayon box,” Abigail replied bitterly, “and he never really asked a lot of questions. He mostly talked about himself.”

George raised an eyebrow at her, “And you liked that?”

“I was more in the relationship to please my parents,” she admitted, “mum has always wanted me to date and marry a wizard. She wants magical grandchildren.”

“So he found out you’re a squib and he dumped you? That was it?”

“Can we talk about something else please?” she begged, “I hate Flint and I really don’t want to discuss him anymore.”

George opened his mouth to reply but luckily, for Abigail, the door to the storage room opened and Lee marched in. “Abby, Oliver Wood just asked where you and George went.”

“Alright,” said Abigail, “I’ll go find him.”

“How do you know Oliver Wood?”

“I’m a squib not a bloody muggle,” she snapped, “I do know some people.”

“Sorry,” said Lee with an apologetic look on his face, “I didn’t mean to upset you.”

“I don’t live in a bloody box,” she continued to rant, “I did grow up with wizards you know!”

“I know,” said Lee raising his hands in the air as though surrendering. Abigail brushed past him without another word and went into the store to find Oliver. Some wizards were just so insensitive!

“Hey,” George grabbed her arm as she reached the counter and spun her around.

“What?” she barked in an irritated tone.

“Do you want to come over for dinner tonight?” He asked with a soft smile. “Lee and Angelina and probably Fred and Katie will be there.”

“Katie?” Abigail asked, “What happened to Beth?”

George grinned, “Beth and Fred have a long history. Katie is just a good friend.”

Abigail forced a smile to form on her face, “If I get my homework done,” she answered, “I’ll fire-call you later.”

“Alright,” George said softly. He let got of her and she turned around to look for Oliver again.

“Hey,” he said from behind her a few minutes later and she turned around to grin at him.

“How are you?” She asked.

“I’m wonderful,” he answered, “yourself?”

“Great,” she said with a nod. “How’s Puddlemore doing? I haven’t watched any matches in a little while and I haven’t been reading the paper.”

“We’re doing really well,” he answered then glanced around the store, “you’re actually someone I wanted to talk to but I wasn’t sure how to get a hold of you.”

“Really?” She asked with a small frown, “You could have just come over to my flat.”

“Yeah, it’s in muggle London,” he answered, “and I’m not exactly sure how to get there or where the apparating point is. Plus your-”

“-fireplace is restricted,” she finished for him with a nod.

“So do you want to go grab some coffee or something and catch up?” Abigail glanced around the store and found George with a customer within ear shot of them.

“I’d love to,” she answered loudly. “Let’s go.”

“Good,” Oliver set the box of canary creams he was looking at back down and followed Abigail out of the shop.


Oliver and Abigail went into Muggle London, even though it didn’t seem like a good idea to Oliver. Abigail took him to her favorite coffee shop just a few blocks from Diagon Alley.

“So how did you and George meet?” Oliver asked once they were seated inside at a small two-top table in the corner of the shop.

“We met at a party he was having,” said Abigail, “Susan invited me.”

“Is she still living with you?” He asked.

“Yes,” she said with a nod. The waitress came over and set the coffee they ordered in front of them with the croissant Abigail also ordered.

“How long have you and George been together?” Oliver asked.

“A few weeks,” she replied.

He nodded, “That’s good.”

Abigail took a sip of her hot coffee then asked the question she wanted an answer to the most. “Why aren’t you with Alicia anymore?”

“You mean she hasn’t told you?” He asked.

“I haven’t spoken with her in a few months.”

Oliver set down the coffee cup he was raising to his lips and looked at her for a long moment. Abigail thought Oliver and Alicia were going to get married. They had been together for so long and they seemed to fit so well together.

“I did something stupid,” he muttered looking down at the table, “and she won’t forgive me.”

“Alicia?” Abigail asked incredulously, “It must have been bad for her not to forgive you. How long ago did you break up?”

“August,” he answered picking the cup back up again, “and she hasn’t spoken to me since.”

Abigail frowned. That didn’t sound like the Alicia Spinnett Abigail knew, “What did you do?” she asked. Oliver drank from his coffee but didn’t answer. “What did you do?” She repeated, “You can tell me.”

“I haven’t spoken to you in nearly a year,” he answered, “why all of the sudden do you want me to spill my guts out to you?”

“You’re one of my best mates,” she answered, “and you know I’m always here for you. If you don’t want to tell me, then that’s fine.”

“I cheated on her,” he whispered quickly before taking another sip of the coffee.

“You did what?!?” Abigail hissed. “And what do you mean exactly when you say cheat?”

“She caught me shagging someone else,” he answered avoiding her eyes and looking very guilty. He fiddled with the table cloth nervously.

“Holy sh*t,” Abigail hissed, “Tell me it was just a one time thing,” she begged.

Oliver shook his head, “Ginny and I were practically dating behind Alicia’s back.”

“Ginny?” Alicia stared at him with wide eyes. He looked up at her - his eyes filled with fear. “Ginny who?” She demanded.

“Weasley,” he whispered and put his face in his hands. “I’m such an idiot,” he mumbled. Abigail put her hand over her mouth and sat back in her seat. She stared at Oliver for a long moment.

“You realize she’s dating Harry Potter right?” Abigail asked dully. Her world was spinning. Granted she didn’t know Ginny very well but why on earth would any reasonable woman cheat on Harry Potter?

“I know,” Oliver mumbled, “Leesh promised not to tell anyone.”

Now that sounded like the Alicia Spinnett Abigail knew. She finds her boyfriend shagging someone else and promises not to tell anyone. Abigail’s respect for Alicia grew immensely. The girl had class and it was obvious she didn’t want anyone else to get hurt.

“Well,” Abigail sighed, “I don’t blame her for dumping you.” Oliver looked up from his hands.

“That’s not very consoling,” he replied.

“You’re the git who shagged someone else. This is your fault. Did you break it off with Ginny then?”

“No,” he mumbled with his face back in his hands.

“You mean to tell me she’s still with both you and Harry?”

“Yeah,” Oliver mumbled dejectedly.

“Why don’t you just get your relationship out in the open and tell everyone?” She asked, “Because hiding it is only going to make everything worse.”

“She doesn’t want to hurt him.”

“Well it’s going to hurt a lot more the longer she waits,” and then something clicked in Abigail’s brain and the words came out before she could stop them, “unless she doesn’t ever plan on telling him.”

Oliver looked up at her again and frowned, “Of course she’s going to tell him,” he spat, “why wouldn’t she?”

“Why would she?” Abigail countered. “Why would she tell her boyfriend that she’s shagging some bloke behind his back? Especially when her boyfriend is Harry Potter, the Harry Potter that defeated the darkest wizard in history?”

“So we can be together,” he replied as though this was the most obvious answer in the world.

“Oliver, it is November,” she said slowly, “That’s at least three months. If she hasn’t told him by now, I don’t think she’s going to.”

“No, she wants to be with me,” he said stubbornly.

“Then why isn’t she?”

“Because she doesn’t want to hurt him and let down her family,” he replied with anger growing in his voice. “It’s not as simple as dumping him and coming to me.”

“But it is,” she countered, “If she wanted to be with you, she would be.”

Oliver stood up suddenly and looked down at her angrily, “I don’t need this,” he announced, “I should never have told you. I knew no one would understand.” With that he grabbed his cloak and left the coffee shop in a hurry.

Abigail sat where she was and stared after him. Something else was going on.


Twenty minutes later Abigail knocked on the office door of one Alicia Spinnett – or so the sign said.

“Come in,” called a female voice. Abigail turned the handle and poked her head inside the office. She grinned when she saw her old friend seated behind a large desk with lots of paperwork on top of it.

“I don’t have all day,” said Alicia with her head down as she read a piece of parchment. “What do you need?” Abigail stepped the rest of the way into the office and closed the door. Alicia looked up when she heard the door click shut and gasped.

“Abby!” She shrieked and a moment later Abigail was being embraced tightly. “Oh my God!” She exclaimed happily, “How are you?”

“I’m fine,” said Abigail, “I just had coffee with Oliver Wood.” Abigail felt Alicia tense at the sound of his name. They let go of one another and Alicia stepped away from her friend.

“He told you what happened then?” Alicia asked.

Abigail nodded, “He told me all about it. I feel so bad for you.”

“Don’t,” said Alicia with a soft smile, “I’m fine. I should have known something was going on anyway. I was just too stupid to see it.”

“It’s not your fault,” said Abigail, “he’s a b@stard and had no right to treat you like that. You were right in dumping him.”

Alicia nodded and sniffed a little as though she was holding back tears. Abigail noticed her watery eyes. Apparently the sting of what Oliver did was still painful. “I know,” she said softly.

“I’m sorry,” said Abigail, “I should have been here for you.”

“No, it’s ok,” said Alicia, “I’m-”

But Abigail never got to find out what Alicia was because there was a knock on the office door and, after wiping her eyes, Alicia said, “Come in.”

The door opened and a very handsome man poked his head in. He was tall and had shiny blonde hair and a great smile. “Hey gorgeous,” he said before stepping into the office.

“Hey,” Alicia replied with a smile. He was walking over to her with some papers in his hands when she continued, “This is Abby.” The man stopped and turned around to see Abigail for the first time.

“Hi,” he said with a large grin, “I’m Roger.”

“It’s nice to meet you,” said Abigail and they shook hands.

“You too,” he nodded his head, “These are for you my sweet,” he said as he turned back to Alicia. He handed her the papers in his hands and kissed her on the cheek. Alicia grinned at him and giggled.

“Thanks,” she said as he headed back to the door.

“You’re welcome,” he gave her a cheeky grin. “It was nice meeting you,” he said to Abigail before leaving.

Alicia stared at the closed door for a moment affectionately.

“Who’s that?” Abigail asked jovially, “Co-worker?”

Alicia smiled and set the papers down on her desk, “That’s my boyfriend,” she said turning her attention back to her friend.

“That’s wonderful,” said Abigail, “I’m glad you’re moving on.”

“Yeah,” Alicia said softly, “he’s sweet.”

A moment of silence passed between the girls. “Well I came here to comfort you, and it turns out you’ve already moved on,” said Abigail after a moment.

“Hmm?” Alicia shook her head and looked at Abigail. “I’m sorry,” she apologized, “I was off day dreaming. How have you been lately?”

“I’m fine,” said Abigail immediately.

“How come I haven’t spoken to you in months?” Alicia asked as she leaned against her desk.

Abigail shrugged, “I’ve been busy,” she said lamely, “and I was trying to immerse myself in the muggle world again.”

Alicia half smiled, “Oh yeah, you told me about that. How’s that going?”

“It’s not,” Abigail answered, “I can’t make it work. Nothing ever works.”

“I’m sorry,” said Alicia, “why didn’t it work this time?”

“I’m dating a wizard,” said Abigail, “and I can’t really avoid the wizarding world if he’s in it you know?”

“Really?” Alicia’s eye lit up with intrigue, “Who?”

“His name is George,” said Abigail, “I don’t know if you know him.”

Alicia frowned, “George who?”

“Weasley,”

Alicia gasped and covered her mouth with her hands. “You’re not!” she exclaimed. “How could you not tell me that?”

“I guess you know him then?” Abigail asked in confusion. How did all of her friends know George but she never met him?

Alicia nodded, “He used to be one of my closest friends. I can’t believe that you’re his new girlfriend.”

Abigail half smiled, “I’m afraid I am.”

There was another knock on her door and Alicia called for them to come in. “Oh Mr. Reynolds!” She stood up suddenly from her resting place on her desk when a man stepped into her office. “What can I help you with?” she asked.

“May I speak with you for a moment?” He asked and then looking at Abigail he added, “Alone.”

“Of course,” said Alicia. She quickly led Abigail out of her office. “Thanks for stopping by,” she said softly, “I’ll talk to you later ok?”

“Yeah, of course,” said Abigail and with that she left.


Later that night, after dinner at George’s house, George and Abigail were seated comfortably on the couch staring into the crackling fire. He had his arms around her and she was resting on his shoulder.

George sighed contentedly before asking, “Want me to beat the hell out of him?”

“Who?” Abigail asked quietly. They hadn’t spoken for nearly ten minutes. “Fred?” She asked when he didn’t respond. He had made a rather rude comment at dinner. She sat up and turned to look at him.

George chuckled, “You can go beat Fred up yourself,” he replied.

“Then who are you talking about?” She asked.

“Flint,” George growled.

Abigail sighed. She knew he would bring up their unfinished conversation about Flint sooner or later. “That would be a bit difficult,” she said softly. George just looked at her with a bemused expression so she continued, “Since, he’s in Azkaban.”

“What? Why?” George sat up straighter.

“I don’t want to talk about it,” she sighed and moved back to lean against him again.

“Well I want to. I don’t like you keeping secrets from me.” He pulled his arm away from her and sat up to look her in the eyes.

“I’m surprised you didn’t know,” she answered, “I believe you were there the night he was caught.”

George stared at her for a moment, “Does this have to do with Susan?”

Abigail nodded solemnly.

“Tell me what happened that night,” he urged.

“No,” she pleaded, “I don’t want to talk about it.”

“Why?”

“It was awful,” she shuddered involuntarily.

“Just tell me,” he begged, “I hate that you’re keeping something from me.” He looked at her with big brown eyes and for some reason she couldn’t say no.

“Alright,” she agreed sighing heavily, “I’ll tell you.” This is going to be interesting.

Good? Bad? Confused? Want me to update soon? LET ME KNOW BY POSTING IN MY FEEDBACK THREAD! (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?t=37082&page=1&pp=30)

A/N: YEAH! I'm finally done with the sping term. I don't have school again until June which means if I'm not at work then I'll be working on updating more often. :agree: The only problem is ... my unicorn stole my muse and is holding him for a redicilious amount of randsom. So ... I don't know how often I'll be able to update after this update. :(

Sorry about the two week wait for this chapter. I hope it's worth it! Oh and yeah ... watchout for the step at the end. :evil: PLEASE LET ME KNOW WHAT YOU THINK! (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?t=37082&page=1&pp=30)
Chapter Fifteen: October 2nd, 1998

This is a flashback taking place on October 2nd 1998, thus the title.

Abigail Bones sat on the comfortable beige couch in her living room peacefully studying for an exam she had the following morning. She was wearing a pair of light pink pajama pants and a white tank top and her hair was up in a pony tail. She was sitting Indian-style with her elbows resting on her knees and her head in her hands looking down at the book in her lap when Susan came out of her bedroom. Abigail looked up to find her cousin fully dressed in wizard robes with her wand in her right hand.

“What’s wrong?” Abigail asked instantly tensing and putting the book on the brown coffee table before her.

“Nothing you need to worry about,” Susan replied instantly, “I’m going out and I can’t tell you where. Just promise me that you won’t you won’t go anywhere and you won’t let anyone inside this apartment.”

Abigail’s heart rate quickened. “You can’t say something like that and tell me I don’t need to worry.”

“Abby,” said Susan, frustration clearly evident in her tone, “I don’t have time to argue with you. I can’t tell you what is going on. Just promise me you’ll stay here where it’s safe.”

“Alright, I promise,” Abigail replied at the unidentifiable look in her cousin’s eyed.

“I’ll send Justin by later to check on you,” said Susan quietly.

“Ok,” Abigail nodded and Susan disapparated with a loud crack.
Now she was very concerned. What was going on that Susan couldn’t tell her about? Surely nothing too dangerous … right? No that was a lie, it had to be dangerous or Susan would have told her. Abigail pulled her knees to her chest and her heels on the couch cushions. She nervously began biting her nails. There was no way she would be able to study now. Not when she was this nervous.

The flat was quiet - too quiet. It was beginning to creep her out. She was just about to get up and turn on Susan’s WWN when she heard a loud crack come from Susan’s bed room. Assuming Susan must have forgotten something Abigail wasn’t concerned. However, when there was a loud crash Abigail leapt from her seat on the couch. It sounded as though Susan’s desk had been turned over. Abigail’s heart rate quickened. Why would Susan turn her desk over? Then a though occurred to her that made her stop in her walk toward the door.

Maybe it wasn’t Susan.

Another loud crash made Abigail jump and her hands began to shake from nervousness.

“Susan,” Abigail called out, as she began walking closer to her cousin’s bedroom door. Just as she reached for the handle the door was suddenly yanked open and Abigail screamed. A strong hand leapt to her throat blocking her air passage and the noise that had been escaping her lips abruptly stopped as Abigail couldn’t breathe.

Her hands flew up to the strong arm holding her throat and she tried desperately to pry his fingers from her air passage.

“Don’t scream!” A menacing man with dark hair and dark eyes ordered quietly. Abigail’s head was beginning to throb. The room was coming in and out of focus. She felt as though her lungs were going to explode in her chest they were burning.

“Silenco,” the man waved his wand and then released Abigail. She fell violently to the floor gasping for fresh sweet wonderful air to fill her lungs. “Get up!” The man shouted as he grabbed her by the arm roughly and pulled her to her feet. She stood dizzily to face a man she thought she would never have to see again. “What are you doing here?” He demanded.

“I live here,” she replied icily “What the bloody hell are you doing here? I thought I told you to stay away from me!” She backed away from him toward the front door quickly.

“I locked it,” he taunted while waving his wand at her, “you’re not escaping this time.”

“Get out of here Flint!” She screamed knowing it would do no good. He didn’t listen to anyone and the room was now sound proof.

“Feisty,” he said stepping closer to her, his eyes glinting maliciously.

“Leave me a lone!” She shouted.

“I didn’t come here for you,” he drilled his dark cold eyes into hers stabbing her heart with the look of disgust that was in them.

“What did you come here for then?” She demanded.

“Actually, I lied,” he said casually, “I did come here in part for you,” he stepped even closer to her, causing her to back up against the door.

“Get away from me!” She screamed.

“Relax,” he whispered, “it’ll be easier if you relax. I just want to see something.”

“Leave me alone!” He reached his hand toward her face and she slapped it away fiercely.

“Just relax,” he whispered again.

“I said get away from me!”

“There’s really nothing you can do,” he said nastily. “I know you’re a squib.” Her breath caught in her throat.

“Who told you that?” She whispered unable to find her voice.

“I can’t believe you lied to me,” he ignored her question, “all that time I thought you were working for the ministry you were really just going to a muggle school.” He reached back up to her face and she slapped his hand away again.

“Don’t touch me,” she spat.

“You didn’t used to mind me touching you,” his face was mere inches from hers.

“That was before I found out want an evil, vindictive, slimy-” she was silenced by his mouth covering hers. She immediately pushed him away from her as hard as she possibly could. He smiled an evil smile that made Abigail’s skin crawl.

“That used to be nice,” he said in a defeated sort of tone, “I had hoped that hadn’t changed.”

“Don’t you ever do that again!” she shouted wiping her mouth with the back of her hand.

“Oh don’t worry,” he sneered, “I won’t.” Suddenly, before she could block his hand, he grabbed the back of her hair and practically threw her to the ground painfully. “Imagine my shock Bones,” he said sharply, staring down at her, “when I found out the truth.” She didn’t know what to say to him so she laid on the floor staring up at him, “When I found out that I had been dating a filthy squib for months and didn’t even know about it.” She could see the anger growing in his eyes. “I thought it couldn’t possibly be true, but I knew it was. It made perfect sense really. All those lies you were feeding me weren’t really adding up you know, but I stupidly believed them.” He was in a rant now, “I thought we had something Bones! I never felt about anyone the way I felt about you. You were exactly what I wanted in a woman. But then you broke my heart didn’t you? And many people have told me I don’t have a heart Bones. But when you told me you never wanted to see me again, I felt it break. And then when I confronted you, you accused me or harassing you. I only wanted to know why Bones! But I found out why soon enough,” his eyes were cold and murderous now, “Yes, you do come from a long standing pure blooded, wealthy, wizarding family, you weren’t lying about that. But you failed to mention one thing Bones. You aren’t a witch! You are noting but a worthless bloody muggle with wizarding blood!” He grabbed her hair again and pulled her up painfully from the ground. Then he pushed her violently backwards so she fell onto the couch. She didn’t know what to do. He had performed the silencing spell so yelling wasn’t going to help and he had sealed them in, so there was no hope of her escaping. Maybe if she kept him talking for a little while.

“I’m sorry,” she whispered staring up at him. She thought she saw his eyes soften for a brief instant.

“No you’re not,” he replied harshly, “and I don’t care if you are anyway! I would have found out sooner or later! Did you think I wouldn’t notice?”

“No,” she said quietly, “That’s why I broke up with you. I knew you’d find out. I didn’t want to hurt you.”

“Don’t lie to me!” He screamed, “You don’t give a d@mn about me!”

“Yes I do,” she cried, “I swear I do.”

“Then it is my turn to hurt you as badly as you hurt me,” his eyes glinted with pure hatred and in that moment Abigail knew she was not going to get out of this alive. He was going to kill her. Before she could stop him he yanked her back up to her feet then threw her across the room so she slammed into the wall. Immense pain shot through her left shoulder upon the impact with the wall and she slid down it into a sitting position on the floor.

“You dumped me Bones,” he hissed as he walked toward her again, “no one has ever dumped me before.”

“I didn’t want you to find out,” she whispered trying desperately to fight back tears.

“Yes,” he sneered, “after all of your deception I did find out,” he paused, “but you are not the only reason I am here tonight.” Her eyes widened in horror. What on earth could the other reason be?

“What do you want then?”

“Get up!” He shouted. Abigail made no attempt to move so he grabbed her forcefully by her right arm and yanked her to her feet. She had to close her eyes so the tears wouldn’t leak out.

“Where is Susan?” Fear filled her entire body and her eyes shot open. Why did he want Susan?

“She left-”

“I can see that! Where did she go?” He shouted.

“I don’t know,” she answered.

“I’m only going to ask you one more time,” he said through clenched teeth as he hand on her arm tightened considerably.

“I don’t know!” She shouted while trying to pull herself free from his grasp.

“Where is she?!” He screamed, towering over her threateningly. There was more then anger in his eyes.

“I don’t know,” Abigail said quietly trying to hide the fear in her voice, but failing miserably.

“Do not lie to me anymore Bones!”

“I’m not!” His eyes glinted dangerously and before she could defend herself he had slapped her across the face. Pain like she had rarely felt before stung her face and she felt her eyes water. She was not going to cry. She would not allow him that satisfaction. She had to lean on the wall behind her to keep from falling to the floor.

“I’m not!” She shouted again staring into his icy cold eyes, willing him to read her mind, to make him believe her. She was telling the truth. She had no idea where Susan was.

“I know you know!” He bellowed. “Tell me!” He pointed his wand at her chest and she gasped.

“You wouldn’t!” She pleaded but long before the words escaped her lips she knew it was hopeless.

“If you don’t tell me by the time I count to five, I will,” she looked into his eyes again but all the affection she knew was once there was gone. He stared at her as though she was noting more then a speck of dirt. A small problem he had to take care of. “One,” he began.

“I told you I don’t know!” She saw the fire light in his eyes. There was much more then anger in them, was it fury?

“And I told you not to lie to me!”

“I’m not lying!” Her voice broke and she felt her eyes begin to sting, evidence of imminent tears.

“Do not cry Bones! I thought you were stronger then that!” He taunted her.

“I wouldn’t cry over you!” she spat her anger overcoming her fear. She saw his entire body tense. Then he raised his wand and pointed it at her and she could do nothing to block the pain she knew was coming, “Crucio!”

Pain beyond any measurable amount shot through her entire body. She didn’t know where she was or even who she was just that her entire body was on fire. She screamed like she had never screamed before. It was absolute agony. She just wanted to die. Let her die. Her head was going to explode. Her entire body was going to explode. Please, let her die. Then it was gone she was lying on the floor with no idea how she had gotten there. Her body ached with pain. She was unable to open her eyes but tears spilled out of them anyway.

“Now tell me what I want to know!” Flint screamed at her.

“I don’t know,” Abigail mumbled weakly – tears were pouring down her cheeks.

“I know that you know d@mnit!” He grabbed her by her arms causing more pain to shoot through her at his touch. She felt as though she was on fire and she couldn’t open her eyes.

“Tell me where she went!” Abigail couldn’t respond. It was useless to waste her weak voice. He shook her violently causing her to cry out in pain.

“TELL ME!” He screamed. Abigail forced her eyes open and saw absolute rage in his eyes. She closed her eyes again and he shoved her away from him. Without any strength she toppled backwards – landing hard on the wooden coffee table that was behind her. It broke under the force and a piece of wood sliced her arm. She lay on top of the table too weak to move.

“Where is she?” Flint growled from somewhere above Abigail.

“I don’t know,” she whispered.

“Crucio!” Flint bellowed again and Abigail screamed in absolute agony. It hurt more the second time. She just wanted to die. It hurt too much to bear. The pain stopped quicker than it bad before and Abigail lay unable to move sobbing from the pain.

“I’m going to die,” she whispered through her sobs though she hadn’t meant to.

“You’d be surprised what you can live through Bones,” said Flint in a deep menacing voice. “Now tell me where Susan is.”

“I don’t know,” Abigail whispered again through her sobs. She couldn’t even lift her head or open her eyes to look at him. Her entire body was throbbing and aching and she knew if he did it again she would surely die from the pain.

“Crucio!” Flint bellowed once more and Abigail was in more pain then she ever could have imagined. She hoped it killed her this time because she didn’t want to live anymore. She couldn’t bear this pain any longer.

And then suddenly it stopped.

“Expelliarmus!” A loud voice shouted then, “Flint!” She heard Justin’s booming voice. “Get away from her!” She felt the floor move and she knew he was coming to save her. There was a loud crack and she forced her eyes open. In the place where Flint once stood was the blurry shape of Justin. “Abby!” He screamed and bent down to her. “Are you alright?” Her throat ached from the screaming and she couldn’t respond. He touched her arm and she screamed from the pain.

“Don’t touch me!” She found her voice

“What did he do to you?” Justin asked softly.

“Cruciatus,” she mumbled. Justin’s eyes widened. There were immediately two other loud cracks. Abigail hadn’t even noticed anyone was in the room but two people had certainly disapparated. Somehow, she wasn’t sure how, she forced herself to sit up. Her entire body was still aching but she sat anyway. The pain was receding slowly.

“Are you alright?” Justin asked again. She nodded slowly. “No, of course you’re not. He just performed the Cruciatus Curse on you and I’m asking if you’re alright.”

“I’m fine,” she replied.

“No you’re not,” he sighed, “look you’re bleeding,” he touched her left arm and again she cried out in pain. The pain from her injured shoulder the cut on her arm had been forgotten once the Cruciatus had been put on her. Now the pain was back full force.

“We need to get you out of here,” he said, “The ministry will be here soon. They’ll know dark magic was being used.”

“Is Susan alright?” Abigail asked suddenly looking up at him.

“She’s fine,” he said quickly then asked, “Why?”

“He was looking for her,” Abigail whispered.

“He hurt you to find her?” Abigail nodded, that wasn’t the only reason, but he didn’t need to know that.

“I’ll kill him!” Justin stood suddenly and paced the room. Abigail slowly got to her feet and grabbed his arm with her good arm out of desperation. Her entire body still ached but she had to do this.

“You can’t,” she replied. He was frowning angrily at her as she clung to his arm. There was a mirror on her right. She glanced into it and saw a dirty, bloody, and tear-stained face staring back. Her right eye was bright pink and she knew it would bruise soon, along with many other places on her body.

“Don’t go,” she begged looking back at him.

“I’m going to kill him,” his voice was firm and there was a look of deep hatred in his eyes.

“No, don’t go. Please, I have such a bad feeling,” she pleaded looking back at the stern expression on his face.

“I’m not going to let him get away with this,” he sounded determined but Abigail was not going to give up without a fight.

“I don’t want him to hurt you.”

Justin scoffed, “that won’t happen,” he said, “I can take care of myself.”

“No, Susan will never forgive me if something happened to you,” Abigail pleaded.

“Nothing will happen to me.”

“I know if you leave you won’t come back,” she said, “I can feel it.”

“Stop worrying and let go of my arm,” he tired to yank his arms from her grasp, but she was quicker and held on tightly.

“I won’t!” She was even more desperate now. “Don’t go Justin, please.”

“This has to stop.”

“Someone else can stop him.”

“If I hadn’t come in when I did Abby- who knows what would have happened to you.”

“Justin please,” she could feel the tears welling up in the back of her eyes.

“You don’t want me to hurt him do?” Justin tried to pull away from her with disgust. “That’s why you don’t want me to go.” She tightened her grip on his arm.

“No, that’s not true,” she said earnestly, “I want him torn apart limb from limb, but you didn’t see the look in his eyes. It was deranged, if you hadn’t come when you did-” her voice broke, “I’ don’t think I would be alive Justin. I don’t want him to hurt you.” He looked at her for a moment then sighed.

“Alright,” he said, “I won’t go.” She loosened her grip on his arm, but this was a mistake. He wrenched his arm away from her and disapparated before she knew what had happened.

“NO!” She shouted to the empty flat angrily. “I can’t believe you just did that! I trusted you!” She was alone, for the second time that night and she was more scared then she had been in a long time. Her heart was pounding in her ears. She didn’t know what to do. She was just about to go into her room and get a coat and keys when she heard a loud crack. She dropped to the floor, and screamed at the top of her lungs.

Wonderful? :tu: Awful? :td: Want more? LET ME KNOW!! (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?t=37082&page=1&pp=30)

A/N: First and foremost I would like to apologize for my evil-ness. It has been nearly 10 months since my last update and I apologize profusely for it (especially in light of the fact that you’ve been hanging off a cliff for that long). Since it’s been so long I highly recommend you re-read the first half of this chapter so that this next part makes sense. Oh and please excuse any errors you read. I’ve tried 3 different betas for this chapter and none of them have returned a beta-ed (?) chapter for me to post in the last 2 months. So I decided not to make you hang any longer and if it ever gets beta-ed I’ll repost it later. Ok so without further delay here is the second half that you’ve been waiting for.

Oh and please let me know what you think (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?t=37082&page=1&pp=30).

Chapter Fifteen: October 2nd, 1998 (Part II)

A/N: Just so we’re clear – this is still a flashback. Oh and this chapter is about 1,5000 words longer than the others. Hope you enjoy.

“Abby!” It was the third time her name was screamed, right in her ear, before it registered in her brain. She stopped screaming and looked up to find Ernie Macmillan kneeling on the floor next to her. “Are you alright?” He asked with a look of absolute horror on his face, “what happened to your face … and your arm?”

“Oh God,” she cried as she suddenly flung her arms around his neck embracing him tightly. “I thought…” a sob ripped from her throat, “I thought you were…” she couldn’t complete a sentence, “I thought he’d come…”

“Shh,” he tried to hush her and rub her back in a comforting manner. “It’s alright,”

“No,” she whispered as she buried her face into his shoulder, “It’s not.”

"Yes it is,” he replied softly. He held her for a few moments while she cried into his shoulder and said a bunch of words she didn’t understand.

“Come on,” he said after she seemed to have calmed down, “let’s stand up,” he somehow managed to get both of them off the ground and standing, “I need to get you to your parents’ house.”

“NO!” She cried suddenly and let go of him as though he’d burned her, “no, I need to warn Susan!”

“Susan?” His eyebrows shot up. “Warn her about what?”

“She’s in danger,” said Abigail frantically, “He’s going to hurt her.”

“He who?” Ernie asked immediately.

“He’s going to hurt her I just know it! He’s going to hurt her! We have to warn her! We have to tell her to look out! He’s going to hurt her!” She started hyperventilating and suddenly went very pale.

“Sit down,” said Ernie while guiding her to the couch, “now tell me who you think is going to hurt Susan.”

She put her head between her knees and took deep breaths in through her nose. “Flint,” she finally answered in a whisper.

Ernie jumped off the couch in alarm, “Flint?” He bellowed, “Flint did this to you?”

Abigail looked up at him though she immediately regretted doing this as her head swam and her vision doubled. “I have to warn Susan.” She said as she stood slowly. Her body ached and her arm throbbed painfully but she didn’t care.

“Does Justin know?” Ernie asked.

“I told him,” said Abigail, “but I don’t know what he’ll do. I have to tell her myself.”

“Justin can handle it.”

“No, he doesn’t understand. Flint is deranged; you should have seen the look in his eyes. He’s unhinged and I don’t think he’d hesitate to kill.” Her eyes were wide and darted around the room wildly.

“Come on,” he took her hand in his and headed toward the fireplace.

“Are you taking me to Susan?”

Ernie paused before answering, “I’m taking you to your parents’ house,” he was never very good at lying. He pulled her closer still to the fireplace.

“Ernie, Susan is in trouble,” Abigail pleaded, “You have to take me to her.”

“We will take care of it. You need to see your dad. He’ll heal your wounds.” He threw some floo powder into the fireplace and pulled her into it. She struggled against him but part of her knew he wouldn’t let her help.

A minute later they climbed out of the fireplace at the Bones Manor. Ernie helped Abigail to the couch. They passed a mirror that hung on the wall to her left and she briefly caught her pale reflection in it. She looked and felt like she was going to be sick at any moment.

“Abby? Is that you sweetheart?” Mr. Bones came into the living room and stopped in his tracks. He glanced from Abigail on the couch to Ernie standing in front of her. He rushed to Abigail’s side and knelt down next to her. “What in the name of Merlin happened?” He barked at Ernie.

“Flint,” Ernie growled, “I don’t know what he did, but he hurt her pretty bad.”

“Marcus?” Mr. Bones asked in a surprised voice, “Marcus Flint did this?”

“That’s what she said,” Ernie growled in obvious anger and frustration.

“Well what exactly did he do?”

“I don’t know,” Ernie practically shouted. “I just found her!” Ernie then began to pace and Mr. Bones turned his attention to his daughter.

“Abby,” his voice became soft but she could hear the concern in it, “Abby baby, what did he do to you?”

Abigail’s vision suddenly went blurry from tears that sprang up in her eyes and for some reason the pain in her arm doubled. She reached up with her good arm and put her hand on her father’s cheek.

“He used … Cruciatus,” she whispered. She heard her father gasp and an angry growl from Ernie and for a moment she was glad she couldn’t see because she was certain the look on her father’s face was murderous, “Daddy,” she continued, “I feel really … weak.” And with those words she promptly passed out.


It was around midnight when she heard the first crack. She sat straight up in her bed and listened intently. Maybe she had imagined it. She took little notice of the fact that she passed out in the living room but was now in her bedroom. There was another crack and then another and with each one she jumped. Scrambling frantically out of bed she catapulted herself the other bed in the room. How she knew Susan was asleep there she had no idea but there were much more pressing matters to attend to. Abigail shook her cousin roughly.

“Get up!” She whispered sharply. Three more cracks sounded through the house and panic rose in her chest. “There’s someone in the house Susan, wake up!”

Susan sat bolt upright and looked around wildly startling Abigail and causing her to jump back from the bed. Another crack sounded and Susan jumped out of bed.

“Get dressed!” She hissed. Abigail was surprised by her abrupt shift from sleepiness to fully awake. But she didn’t have long to think about it because Susan was getting dressed and Abigail quickly followed her lead.

The door to the bedroom opened and Abigail barely contained her scream. Justin’s tall form was silhouetted by the moonlight that shone through the window. “Oh Justin!” Susan cried as she ran over to hug him. “What are you doing here?”

“You have to get out of here,” he said in an urgent whisper.

“They’re here aren’t they?” Susan asked as she pulled herself closer to him. A cold chill ran down the length of Abigail’s spine making the hairs on the back of her neck rise. They’re here, she repeated to herself. He’s here.

“I’ll explain it all later,” Justin answered, “but you have to get out of here right now.”

“No,” said Susan, “I’m going to stay here and fight with you.”

He sighed angrily as though he knew she was going to say that, “You can’t - someone has to look out for Abby.”

“She can look out for herself,” said Susan stubbornly. He gave her a dubious look. And then a thought occurred to Abigail.

“Justin,” she nearly shrieked, “Where are my parents?”

“At the ministry,” he answered with a dismissive wave of his hand, “now Susan, take this portkey and get Abigail to the Ministry where she’ll be safe.” He handed her a small object that Abigail couldn’t see.

There was a creak outside the door and Abigail stiffened. “Someone is outside,” she whispered urgently.

“Go, now,” said Justin as he pulled out his wand.

“There’s no exit from here for Abby,” Susan replied.

“She can go out the window,” he said pointing to it.

“We’re on the third floor,” Susan whispered sharply.

“We don’t have time to fight about this. Go right now!”

Susan turned and ran over to the window. Abigail was right behind her. Susan threw it open and both girls looked down. It was a very far drop.

“This is a bad idea,” Susan whispered as she turned back to Justin.

The handle on the door jiggled and all three in the room jumped. “I think I found them,” said a deep voice loudly. A need to survive rose inside of Abigail. If whoever was outside came inside she would have no way of defending herself. They could do whatever they wanted to her. She had already experience this earlier with Flint and she would not let it happen again. Something fierce and inexplicable arose inside of her. She was going to survive no matter what it took.

“There’s a tree limb right there,” said Abigail, “I can climb out and jump to it, then climb down.”

“Go!” Justin whispered frantically and Susan helped Abigail onto the ledge. Without looking back Abigail jumped from the ledge and managed to grab the nearest tree branch. Instead of climbing onto the branch she just dropped down to the one below it and then to the ground. From the ground she looked up to see Susan clutching to Justin for dear life. Suddenly there was some sort of a blast and the entire room was engulfed in bright orange flames. Because of her blood curdling scream she missed the crack of apparition. She screamed again when someone covered her mouth with their hand from behind and held her steadfast to their chest. She wriggled and kicked and tried desperately to get away from whoever had a hold of her.

“It’s me!” Susan finally shouted in her ear. Abigail immediately stopped struggling and was released. She whipped around, after taking two huge steps away from her captor, to face her cousin to make sure.

“Come on!” Susan hissed as she grabbed Abigail’s hand, “we need to find a safe place to portkey out of here.” Abigail was so overrun with emotions she didn’t know whether to cry or laugh. Susan must have disapparated just before the explosion. Oh the joys of being a witch.

They turned the corner of the house and came face to face with three tall men dressed in black robes with white masks over their faces. They seemed just as startled to see Susan and Abigail as the girls were to see them. However, Susan whipped out her wand and stunned all three of them before anyone had any time to react.

“Where the hell did you learn how to do that?” Abigail demanded while looking from one stunned death eater on the ground to the next.

“Work,” she answered vaguely, then pulled Abigail into the shadow of the house – out of the moonlight. She charmed the portkey and a moment later Abigail felt the familiar pull behind her navel.

When she opened her eyes chaos is what she found - for they were not at the ministry. It took her more than a moment to register where they were - Hogsmeade. Witches and wizards were running everywhere and several buildings were on fire.

“What is going on?” She asked as she looked over to Susan. “Why didn’t the portkey take us to the ministry?”

Her cousin was looking around with wide eyes and an expression of astonishment on her face. “He must have given us the wrong one on accident.”

“Why would he have one for Hogsmeade?”

“We got a tip,” Susan said almost to herself, “about an attack on Diagon Alley. Practically everyone was sent there to look out for trouble but some of us were given instructions to come here.”

Abigail didn’t know what to say. And then suddenly Susan shook her head twice and seemed to come out of whatever bewilderment she’d been in.

“Come on,” she said with authority in her voice, “we have to find a fireplace and get you to the ministry with your parents.” Susan grabbed her hand and pulled her at a run toward one of the shops.

After searching several shops they finally found a fireplace in The Three Broomsticks.

“What is the point of attacking Hogsmeade?” Abigail asked, “It’s full of witches and wizards that can defend themselves. I don’t understand.”

“It’s probably a diversion,” said Susan as she pulled Abigail to the fireplace, “the places they really wanted to attack were definitely your house, though I don’t know why, and …” she trailed off as she looked out the window. Witches and wizards were running by screaming, some of them being chased.

“Flint was looking for you,” said Abigail urgently, “Did Justin tell you?”

“Me?” Susan asked turning back to face her cousin, “Why would he be looking for me?”

“He wouldn’t tell me,” said Abigail.

Susan’s eyes grew large and filled with fear. “Oh Merlin,” she muttered. “I don’t – how could he – who could have…?” She ran her fingers roughly through her hair and turned around away from her cousin. She sprinted to the door and yanked it open then stopped and turned back. “You get to the ministry,” she commanded, “right now.” Then she raced out the door.

“Fat chance,” said Abigail as she chased her cousin.

Susan was running down the street faster than Abigail had ever seen her run and she was hard pressed to keep up with her. When she finally caught her she grabbed her by the arm and pulled her to a halt. Susan whipped around with wand raised but lowered it when she saw Abigail.

“What are you doing?” She shrieked, “I told you to go to the ministry.”

“I want to know what’s going on,” Abigail replied, “and I know that you know, so don’t lie to me.”

“I don’t have time to explain.”

“Just tell me damnit!” Abigail exploded, “Why was Flint looking for you?”

“Fine!” Susan regarded her cousin for a minute before glancing around, “Do you know what I do at the ministry?” She asked.

Abigail was perplexed – what did that have to do with anything? “Yeah,” she finally answered, “You work for the department of international ...” she trailed off as Susan shook her head from side to side.

“No, I don’t. That’s what I told you, but it’s not true.”

“Then what do you do?”

“I’m sort of like an auror, but I do a lot of undercover investigations and I work closely with the unspeakables.”

Abigail’s eyes widened as she stared at her cousin. “No you don’t,” she replied, “Those are all men.”

“You’d be surprised,” said Susan.

“So what does that have to do with Flint?”

“He must have found out,” said Susan, “I’m working on something that only a few people know about. Someone must have told him. This is bad Abby. If he thinks I told you, you’re in very real danger.”

“As opposed to him almost killing me earlier?”

Susan frowned at her cousin, “he won’t kill you,” she replied, “He knows that I’ll never tell so he’ll need you.”

“But I don’t know anything-”

“But he doesn’t know that so we might be able to-” she stopped mid-sentence and shook her head, “come on,” she grabbed Abigail’s arm and set off at another fast paced run back toward Hogsmeade. They were back at The Three Broomsticks in a matter of moments.

“Go to the ministry,” said Susan urgently, “You’ll be safe there. I’ll come as soon as I can.”

“Where are you going?”

“Don’t ask questions,” Susan shoved some floo powder into Abigail’s hand, “just go.”

“Fine,” Abigail threw the powder into the fireplace and stepped inside. “Bones Manor,” she said while staring directly at her cousin.

“****!” She heard Susan shout very loudly.


When she tumbled out of the fireplace in her parent’s kitchen she stumbled directly upon the sounds chaos yet again. The kitchen was oddly empty, but there was a lot of fighting going on. She could hear the yelling and see the flashes of lights from the other rooms. She wasn’t really sure what made her come back here but she wanted answers and she knew she wouldn’t get any if she simply went to the ministry. Only now did she see the stupidity in her actions. She was a squib – everyone else were witches and wizards. How was she going to defend herself? She didn’t know any magic. Why did she act before she thought?

“Damnit!” Abigail jumped at the sound of Susan’s voice and the strong hand on her shoulder. “I told you to go the ministry!” Susan was angrier than Abigail had ever seen her.

“I want answers,” Abigail replied in a sharp whisper. She didn’t want to be discovered.

“I don’t care,” said Susan, “you’re endangering your life by being here. We have to get you out of here now.”

“No,” said Abigail, “what were you working on for the ministry that caused all of this?”

“It’s none of your concern!” Susan grabbed her cousin’s arm roughly but Abigail ripped it away.

“I’m not leaving until you tell me the truth!”

“That won’t be necessary,” said a low, familiar voice, from behind Abigail. She slowly turned around to find a wand being pointed directly in her face and without having to see his face she knew who he was.

“Come with me,” he commanded. They had no choice but to follow him. Abigail knew no magic and they both knew Susan stood no chance. They were directed into the living room which had been wrecked almost beyond recognition. Abigail winced when she saw the shredded furniture, overturned bookshelves, and shattered glass. It seemed the fighting had ceased. The Death Eaters were standing around a group of wizards kneeling on the ground. Abigail recognized none of them.

There were snickers and jeers from the Death Eaters when Flint brought the girls in the room. He did not place them with the others but made them kneel in the center of the room.

“Alright Flint,” said Susan through gritted teeth, “What do you want?”

“I think you know the answer to that,” Flint returned. His eyes were ablaze behind the white mask that he wore. Susan showed no sign of understanding so Flint continued with, “information, Bones.”

“I don’t know what you mean,” said Susan while incredibly maintaining eye contact with her interrogator.

“I think you do,” said Flint as he idly played with his wand. A few of the Death Eaters chuckled to themselves.

“Well I’m afraid you’re wrong,” said Susan confidently.

“Do not play games with me Bones,” Flint spat suddenly his voice turning viscous. “I thought you were above that,” he gave Abigail a pointed glare at this. She returned his look with deep hatred of her own.

“I don’t know what you want,” said Susan and had Abigail not known the truth she would have believed her.

“Well, let’s just do a little experiment here to see if you’re telling the truth.” Without warning he slapped Abigail across the face so hard she was knocked to the ground from the impact. Searing pain shot through both side of her face and her vision went black. Susan gasped and jumped to her feet but was forced back down by Flint’s wand.

Abigail lay still on the carpet – unable to move. Both side of her face were on fire and it was hard to tell which was worse. She opened her eyes but her vision swam and her head pounded painfully.

“Get up,” Flint growled at her.

Slowly Abigail got back up to her kneeling position. She kept her eyes on the carpet at his feet. She didn’t want him or Susan to know how much that had hurt.

“Now,” Flint was back to Susan in a business-like manner, “tell me what I want to know.”

Susan turned and stared at her cousin for a long moment. Abigail met her eyes and gave the slightest nod possible. With her eyes she told her cousin to keep her mouth shut. Obviously whatever it was that Flint wanted was incredibly important. Susan turned back to Flint with a hardened look on her face.

“I don’t know what you want,” she repeated her words through clinched teeth.

“No?” Flint squatted before her and looked her over once. “Are you sure about that?” Flint looked at Abigail and then back to Susan, “because I can do a lot worse than that to her.” Susan kept her face and eyes blank as though she didn’t care.

Abigail’s heart pounded painfully fast in her chest. What did he have planned for her?

Flint slowly got to his feet and pointed his wand at Abigail. She closed her eyes tightly and begged whoever was in change of the universe that the secret Susan was hiding was this important.

She heard the swishing of his wand being raised. No one made a sound. The beginning of a word came out of Flint’s mouth but was cut off by Susan’s cry of, “NO!”

The room went deadly silent there wasn’t a breath among them. Abigail’s eyes snapped open in disbelief at her cousin. “I’ll tell you,” said Susan. She was staring at the floor at Flint’s feet.

“No,” said Abigail urgently, “you can’t tell him anything.”

Susan met her cousins’ eyes, “I can’t let him hurt you.”

“You can’t tell him,” said Abigail, “no matter what he does to me.”

“No,” said Susan with watery eyes, “my life, he can have, but I can’t let him take yours.”

“He’s going to kill me either way,” said Abigail. She glanced to Flint for confirmation and found it in his eyes. Susan glanced at him too. His wand was still pointed at her.

“Then I’ll make a deal,” Susan looked Flint in the eyes, “I give you the information you want and you spare our lives.”

Flint brought his hand up to his chin and seemed to be pondering this. Then in a very low and even tone he said, “No.”

“What?” Susan seemed genuinely shocked.

“I’ll get the information out of you either way,” he said, “I don’t have to make a deal with you.”

“I won’t give it to you any other way,” she said.

“Oh,” he glanced to Abigail, “I think you will.” He pointed his wand directly at Abigail’s heart and said, “tell me or I’ll kill her right now.”

Fear flooded Abigail’s entire body. A million thoughts all raced through her head at once. Thoughts of things she’d never done, thoughts of mistakes she’d made. Thoughts of how ungrateful she’d been to her family – her cousin.
Abigail looked at her cousin to see that Susan was frozen in place. She seemed unable to move or do anything. “You have until the count of five,” said Flint.

Susan bit her lower lip tightly and Abigail could see the tears building quickly.
“One…,” said Flint. His wand arm was steady and there was no doubt in Abigail’s mind that he would do it. “…two,” he bore holes into Susan’s head but she was staring at Abigail with much fear in her eyes, “...three,” Susan opened her mouth but Abigail made her close it with one look. “…four,” it was obvious Flint was growing tired, “…five.” Flint sighed loudly and looked at Susan, “last chance,” he said in a low growl.

“I don’t know what you want,” said Susan in a choked voice.

Just as Flint rose his wand and Abigail closed her eyes the front door burst open. Her eyes opened immediately to find Justin in the doorway.

“Flint!” He growled and charged. In a matter of milliseconds Flint sent the curse he was about to use on Abigail in Justin’s direction.

“Justin!” Abigail screamed but he was dead before his name reached his ears. A raging battle ensued but Abigail saw none of it. She was in complete shock. She couldn’t believe her eyes. Did that really happen? Was he really gone? She could see his face from where she was and she knew that he was gone but she would not believe it.

Somehow she had been knocked on her butt and someone had pulled her away from the fighting. She kept her eyes locked on Justin’s face though. He had a look of shock on his familiar handsome features and Abigail knew he was gone forever.


Ok so... good? :tu: bad? :td: Worth the wait? Or not? Please let me know! (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?t=37082&page=1&pp=30)

A/N: I CANNOT believe it has been a year (as of yesterday) since I last updated this. I thought that 10 months was bad, but I year just sounds so much worse. I am unbelievably sorry. If I still have fans, I appreciate you more than you could know. You have been waiting for a long time! So do you want to know what happened to this story? I will tell you. First, I had this entire story planned and a lot of it written - more than what is currently posted, but HBP came out and completely blew everything I had out of the water. If I had posted it, it would have been very much AU and I can’t stand writing AU stories. So I had to scrap my ideas and start over from where I had posted and figure out the rest of the story. It probably would have been easier to just start from scratch because my inspiration pretty much died, but I had already written so much that that was not an option. Plus I am a full time college student who has a 35 hour part time job and a social life. So all of that did not work in your favor. Anyway, I finally have the story redesigned to my satisfaction and am writing large chunks of it on the weekends (when I don’t have work or school – and sometimes in class) and I have lots of inspiration. So hopefully (I don’t want to say definitely and get your hopes up), this is the regeneration of this story and the rest of it will be posted before DH comes out and kills it again. Lol. So, without further delay, here is Chapter 16. Oh and since it has been so long, I recommend re-reading, not the last chapter, but the one before it (chapter 15) so that you are not completely confused. Hope you enjoy! Let me know what you think!
(http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?t=37082&page=8)

Chapter Sixteen: The Double Date

Oh and FYI: We’re back in the present now.

“I don’t really remember anything else,” Abigail concluded holding George’s steady gaze, “I know a ton of aurors, showed up right afterwards and took everyone, including Flint, into custody. I know they were all sent to Azkaban. I was invited to Flint’s trial but decided not to go.” She looked down at her hands intertwined with George’s. When she looked back up a deep frown was etched upon his handsome face.

“I’ll kill him,” he growled.

“He’s in Azkaban,” Abigail replied with a sigh, “and I’m glad for it.” She stared into George’s eyes and found deep sorrow lurking there. Her recounting the story seemed to cause him pain and her heart swelled as she realized it was because he loved her.

“I didn’t know any of that,” he finally whispered as he reached up with his left hand and cupped her cheek. “I can’t believe he would hurt you like that.”

Abigail smiled softly, “I’m fine.”

“I didn’t know it was Flint who killed Justin.” She nodded solemnly. Oddly enough this was the first time when re-telling her story that she didn’t cry. Maybe that was a sign that she was healing. “I’m sorry,” he whispered.

“You’re sorry?” She asked perplexed, “for what? You didn’t do anything.”

“I’m sorry you had to go through all of that. I’m sorry I didn’t come until after the fighting was over. I’m sorry I couldn’t have stopped him.” His throat was working and there were tears building in his eyes.

“Don’t think like that,” said Abigail, “there was no way for you to have known.”

George sighed softly. “I just can’t believe what you’ve been through. I don’t know how you did it.”

“Me either,” Abigail replied with a soft smile, “me either,” she repeated faintly after minute.

George untangled his fingers from hers and before she could respond he wrapped his strong arms around her and pulled her close to his warm chest. He kissed the top of her head and held her even tighter. “I won’t ever let anything bad happen to you again,” he murmured almost too softly for her to hear.

“You can’t say that,” she replied just as quietly. “You can’t always protect me.”

“Yes I can,” he said these words with such confidence that Abigail dared not refute them. She closed her eyes and took a deep breath in through her nose – smelling his wonderful cologne - and for a moment allowed herself to believe him - if only for a moment.



The following evening Abigail found herself bored out of her mind. She was sitting in front of her computer willing the words needed for her paper on Michelangelo and his attributions to the High Renaissance to just appear on the empty screen in front of her. Or the least they could do was form in her mind so she could type them. However not a single word was coming to her. She just sat there, her fingers hovering over the keys, with a faint buzzing in her head and no words.

The sound of the phone ringing jolted her out her thoughts and she answered it still in a daze.

“Hey Abs,” came Sara’s cheerful voice from the other end.

“Hey Sara,” Abigail answered with a smile.

“Are you busy tonight?”

“No, not really” Abigail replied thinking about her paper that she really needed to start writing and having dinner with George.

“That’s wonderful,” Abigail heard her best friend clap her hands together, “want to go see a movie and then grab a bite to eat?”

Abigail grinned, “That sounds a lot like a date to me.”

“Yeah I guess it does,” Sara laughed, “So what do you say?”

“Pick me up at eight?”

“I’ll be there,” said Sara, “just don’t expect flowers.”

“Alright, I’ll settle for chocolate.”

“Oh sod off,” said Sara through her laughter, “I’ll see you at eight.”

“Alright,” Abigail rang off and grinned. She hadn’t seen a movie with her best friend in a while. Getting up from her seat in front of the computer Abigail grabbed her purse and jacket and left.


When she got to George’s house she was practically bursting with excitement. She was so eager to spend time with Sara. Slipping inside she immediately found Lee and Angelina cuddled on the couch together. They both looked over when they heard the door open and close. Abigail grinned at them – they were so cute together.

“Hi,” said Lee cheerfully.

“Hi,” said Abigail with equal cheer, “George here?”

“In his room,” said Angelina.

Abigail nodded and immediately took the stairs two at a time. She paused just for a moment outside his door to collect herself and then knocked gently.

“Come in,” George called loudly. Opening the door slowly Abigail peeked her head in. He was lying on his bed with a book in his face. “Come in,” he repeated louder but she didn’t reply. So he lowered his book, in an agitated sort of manner, and seemed to be about to yell until he saw her. “Hey,” he said in a surprised tone as his annoyed expression evaporated into a grin.

“Hi,” she answered from the doorway.

“You’re early,” he said as he looked at his watch, “I thought you were going to work on your paper?”

“I tried,” she said and it was the truth.

“But you couldn’t keep your mind off of me?” George asked with a cocky grin, “too excited about coming over here and having dinner with me?”

Abigail smiled as sweetly as she could at him then said, “Oh – er - about tonight…” she gathered up her nerves and crossed the room quickly jumping onto the bed with him. He sat up as she tucked her feet beneath her, “Would you be terribly upset if I canceled?”

“Canceled?” He repeated with a frown, “What for?”

“Sara rang me,” said Abigail while biting her lower lip, “and we haven’t gone out for such a long time. I told her I’d go to dinner and see a movie.”

George nodded and looked down at the bedspread, “If that’s what you want to do,” he mumbled.

Abigail reached forward and pulled George’s chin up until he was looking at her, “I’ll tell her I can’t if you ask me to.”

“No,” George smiled softly, “go and have fun. Charlie’s still in town I’m sure I can do something with him.”

“Is he here?” Abigail asked glancing over her shoulder toward the door as though expecting to see him.

George chuckled slightly at her, “No, he’s been out all day with Ginny.” There was a strange expression on his face now. He seemed to be in deep thought but what was troubling him, she could not have said.

“Is she alright?” Abigail asked.

George shrugged, “Gin’s a strong young woman. She can handle a lot. If she’s not fine now I’m sure she will be.”

“But you don’t know what’s wrong?”

George shrugged again and sighed softly, “She’s a pretty closed off person. But she talks to Charlie, maybe he can help her.” There was a soft pause before George shook his head and seemed to return to himself, “What’re you still doing here?” he asked, “Shouldn’t you be getting ready or something?”

Abigail grinned, leaned forward, kissed George quickly on the cheek, whispered “thanks”, then hopped off his bed and headed toward the door.

George leapt out of the bed and followed her down the stairs and to the front door, “Don’t forget about tomorrow night,” he said as he held the door open for her.

She frowned in confusion, “tomorrow night?”

“Our Halloween party,” said George “It’s tomorrow night at eight, remember?”

“Oh!” Abigail grinned, “I’m glad you reminded me. What time should I come over to help set up?”

“Anytime you like,” he answered, “I’ll be at the shop with Fred but Lee and Charlie will be here.”

Abigail’s face paled slightly at the thought of being here in his house without him. “You won’t be here?” She asked in a small voice.

George shook his head and rolled his eyes, “The others don’t bite,” he bent down and pecked her on the lips, “often,” he whispered in her ear as he wrapped his arms around her in a hug and laughed. She knew he was joking but that didn’t mean she wasn’t leery. He let go of her and she stepped outside and headed back to her flat.



She was just pulling a white sweater over her head when she heard the front door open and close. “Susan?” A familiar voice called across the apartment.

“In here!” Abigail heard her cousin’s voice from her room.

Grinning, Abigail bounded across her room and ran out into the living room. She made it just in time to grab Hannah from behind before she opened Susan’s bedroom door. Hannah let out a startled scream as though she was being murdered making Abigail burst into laughter.

“Great Merlin you scared the wits out of me Abby,” Hannah exclaimed as Abigail let go of her.

Abigail continued to grin, “I know,” she said through her laughter, “that was the point.”

“Is everything alright?” Susan opened the door to her room and smiled at the two girls in the living room. “What’s going on?”

“Abby scared the living hell out of me,” said Hannah with her hand over her heart, “That’s what’s going on.”

“Well I haven’t seen you in forever,” said Abigail in her own defense, “I’m sorry if I was excited.”

“And whose fault is that?” Hannah asked as she walked across the room and plopped down on the couch.

“Whose fault is what?” Abigail was sincerely confused.

“If you didn’t spend every waking moment with a certain Weasley boy, then I’m sure you would have seen more of me.”

Abigail rolled her eyes, “I do not spend every waking moment with him.”

“Then where are you going tonight?” Hannah asked with a confident smirk.

“Ha!” Abigail pointed her finger at the younger girl, “I am going out with Sara if you must know, and George isn’t coming.”

Hannah looked over to Susan for confirmation but the other witch was no longer in the room. “Are you really?” Hannah finally asked.

Abigail nodded with her hands on her hips.

“Well that’s good for you then,” said Hannah, “you shouldn’t spend so much time with the twins. They’ll start to influence you.”

“And how would you know?” Abigail asked as she took a seat next to Hannah on the couch.

“I went to school with them for five years. Trust me.”

Abigail simply shrugged. She enjoyed spending time with George – and Fred … most of the time. They were not going to influence her. So she changed the subject, “What’re the two of you doing tonight then?”

“Terry’s mother is having an opening at her new gallery tonight so we’re going to go; you and Sarah are welcome to come.”

Abigail chuckled, “I’m not sure that would be such a good idea. Sara doesn’t know about witches and wizards remember?”

“Oh it’s a muggle art gallery,” said Hannah dismissively, “Terry’s mum’s a muggle, her name is Lisa Boot.”

“Lisa Boot?” Abigail asked suddenly interested. She had heard about this opening. Her boss had ranted and raved about it for a week. The new gallery wasn’t far from the gallery she worked at.

Hannah nodded, “You two should come.”

Abigail smiled at her cousin’s best friend, “I’ll think about it ok?” Maybe she could get Sara to go. Sara wasn’t really big into art, even though she had a few paintings in her flat, but maybe she could convince her.

“Hannah,” Susan had reappeared in the doorway. Both girls on the couch looked over at her, “come here, will you please?”

“Sure,” Hannah stood and crossed the living room to Susan’s room. Abigail also stood up then and headed toward her room. “Have fun tonight,” she said as she turned back to the two girls.

“You too,” said Hannah before disappearing into Susan’s room.


Sara was exactly on time, which was rare. Susan and Hannah were still in Susan’s room so Abigail poked her head in and said goodbye before greeting Sara at the door. She didn’t want to linger just in case one of the witches inside did some magic. She did not want to have to deal with the Obliviator squad tonight. So she pushed Sara out of the door when she tried to come in and back down the stairs.

“So where are we going?” Abigail asked when they were back in Sara’s car.

“I was thinking Porters,” Sara answered as she started the car.

Abigail nodded, “Good,” she said, “I haven’t been there in a little while.”

“Did George not like it?”

“He liked it fine,” said Abigail and then something occurred to her, “hang on” she frowned, “how did you know we went there?”

“Jonathon,” said Sara, “he called wanting to know what I thought of George. I had to tell him I haven’t actually met him.”

“Did he er-” Abigail tried to keep her voice neutral, “-say anything about him?”

Sara nodded, “Yeah, he told me all about him.”

“Oh?”

“Yeah,” said Sara and there was a silent pause. She rolled her eyes and chuckled slightly, “I’m not going to tell you what he said if that’s what you want.”

Abigail smiled sheepishly, “we haven’t really talked about what he thought of him. I was just wondering…”

“Well then you should ask him,” Sara smiled again, “anyway I want to meet him.”

“You will,” said Abigail, “I promise.”

Sara nodded then asked, “So if he liked this place why haven’t you been here in a while?”

Abigail shrugged. “We just don’t go out very often.”

“Oh? Why not?”

Abigail shrugged again casually, “We usually just eat at his house.”

“I just can’t believe I haven’t met him yet,” said Sara, “it seems weird, you know? He doesn’t seem real because I haven’t met him.”

Abigail nodded as she thought about it, “I guess it would be odd,” she said, “If you were dating someone I didn’t know. I haven’t really thought about it.”

“And I understand that you and Jonathon have been friends for a long time, but as your best female mate I should have met him first.”

“We were fighting,” said Abigail in her defense, “that’s not my fault.” They pulled into the parking lot and Sara said nothing but Abigail could tell she was holding back a smile.



So ... what did you think? Good? :tu: Bad? :td: Worth the wait? :tu: Please Let Me Know (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?t=37082&page=8) (feedback encourages me to update and the second half of this chapter is already written!)

A/N: You should be proud. It has only been alittle more than 3 months and here you are with an update. I hope you enjoy this update and let me know what you think! (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?t=37082&page=8) :agree:

Chapter Sixteen: The Double Date (Part II)

When Abigail entered one of her favorite restaurants behind Sara she took a deep breath and smiled. She really missed this place. Instead of waiting to be seated, like usual, Sara headed in a straight line toward a table with two men seated at it, one of whom was smiling and waving at them. Abigail grabbed her arm and held her back.

“What’re you doing?” She asked in an alarmed voice.

“Oh,” Sara pretended to look surprised, “didn’t I tell you we were meeting two of my friends?”

Abigail glared at her friend, “No,” she said through clenched teeth, “you didn’t say that.”

“Oh,” again Sara pretended to look surprised, “I thought I did.” There was a pause in which Abigail gave Sara a doubtful look before Sara said, “Well, we’re here and they’re here. What can sitting with them hurt?”

“I’m not going on a double date with you,” said Abigail sternly.

“Come on Abby,” Sara pleaded, “what happened to my best friend who was up for any adventure?”

“She got a boyfriend,” said Abigail sternly.

“Please,” said Sara, “just do this for me. I promise we won’t stay long.”

“Promise?” Abigail asked casting the men an uncertain glance.

“Yes,” said Sara as she grabbed Abigail’s arm and led her toward the table, “Hello,” she greeted with a large smile once they got close.

“Hello,” said the man whom had been waving at her from across the restaurant. “Sara, this is Andrew.” The first man introduced the man to his left.

“Hello,” she greeted with a nod at Andrew.

“Hello,” said Andrew also with a nod.

“This is Abigail,” said Sara while taking the seat next to the first man.

“Hello,” said the first man while extending his hand, “I’m Tom.”

“Hi,” said Abigail, “it’s nice to meet you.” She shook Tom’s hand and then smiled at Andrew while taking her seat in between Andrew and Sara.


The dinner ended up being predictably boring. Sara talked about herself for a good long time. Tom, Sara’s date, hung onto every word she said and flirted with her unabashedly. Andrew, Abigail’s “date” seemed nervous and awkward. Even after having a few beers he didn’t loosen up and kept fidgeting with his napkin or else running his fingers through his dark curly hair. He didn’t seem to be a conversationalist and so, as Abigail didn’t want to lead him on, they sat and listened to Sara prattle on about things that Abigail did not care about. She found herself longing to be with George and spent a lot of the time picturing his face. This was not how she had imagined this evening going.

“Abby,” Sara’s voice broke through her thoughts.

Abigail shook her head, “Yes?”

Sara frowned at her, “I was asking if you were ready to go.”

“Go?” Abigail looked around and realized that her three companions’ plates were empty as well as their glasses. “Sure.” She stood along with the others and after paying they stepped outside. It was rather chilly.

“Well,” said Tom, “do you have any plans for the rest of the evening?” He asked with a hopeful note in his voice.

“Yes,” said Abigail before Sara could answer, “we’re going to an art gallery opening.”

“Are you?” Tom looked at Sara uncertainly.
Sara looked at Abigail and saw the determination on her friend’s face before nodding resignedly to Tom, “Yes,” she said, “but you’re welcome to join us if you like.”

Tom seemed about to respond but it was Andrew who interrupted him, “That sounds like fun actually,” he said causing the other three to look at him in surprise. Abigail’s mouth had actually dropped open. Was he being serious?
Sara must have been having the same thoughts because she was the first to respond, “Really?”

Abigail watched Tom roll his eyes, “Andrew,” he said in a voice that let Abigail know she was going to get an explanation, “loves art galleries. He is constantly trying to get me to go to them with him.”

It was Abigail’s turn to be shocked into a response this time, “Really?” She asked looking at Andrew.

He nodded, “I do,” he said, “when I was at Oxford I wanted to study Humanities but my father said no so I went to law school instead, but I still love art very much.”

“That’s funny,” said Sara with a grin, “Abby is studying Humanities at Oxford right now.”

Andrew’s eyebrows rose in surprise and he asked, “Are you?”
Abigail nodded.

“Well,” said Tom rather suddenly, “it seems this art gallery is our destination. So let’s go because I’m freezing.”

“Lead the way,” said Sara to Abigail and so, with a shrug, Abigail did. Unfortunately, Andrew chose to walk beside her.

“How far along are you in the Humanities program?” He asked her as Sara and Tom walked behind them.

“I’m in my last semester actually,” Abigail replied.

“Oh,” said Andrew, “Have you enjoyed it?”

Abigail nodded, “For the most part. Sometimes I-”

“I think I would have liked it so much if I had had the balls to study it,” Andrew interrupted her. “The Renaissance is my favorite time period,” he continued, “Michelangelo was such a marvelous artist-”

“I’m actually writing a paper on him right now,” Abigail interrupted because he didn’t sound like he was going to take a breath.

“Have you seen any of his original works?”

“No,” Abigail replied, “but I would love-”

“I have,” Andrew interrupted again, “and they are the most amazing pieces of art work I have ever seen. You should go sometime.”

“I would love to-” Abigail began but she was cut off again.

“I recommend starting in Paris at the Louvre,” he said, “and then go on to Italy-”

“I’ve been to Paris-”

“But don’t go in the spring,” he continued as though she were not even there, “it rains all the time in the spring, almost every day. I learned that lesson the hard way. I would go in early summer, unless you like the cold, in which case late fall …”

It was at that point that Abigail tuned him out and realized that she enjoyed Andrew much more when he was awkward and nervous. This loud and boisterous Andrew was much more annoying than the quite and fidgety one she had met in the restaurant. It was almost as though he was a completely different person.


After a few minutes they finally arrived at the gallery and Abigail could not have been happier. She hoped desperately that something inside would attract Andrew’s interest and she’d be able to get away from him.

“… Tuscany. It is such a beautiful city-”

“This is it,” Abigail interrupted as she began up the front steps.

“Oh,” Andrew looked behind them in the direction of Porter’s, “that was such a short walk.”

“For you,” Abigail muttered under her breath. As it didn’t seem like Andrew was going to reach for the door, Abigail pulled the door open and held it for him as he went through, followed by Sara and Tom.


Once inside Abigail looked around and smiled – it was quite a good turn out. There were at least a hundred people in the main hall alone. Most of them were milling about looking from one painting to the next, some were leaving to go into the next room, and some were coming from another room into this one.

Abigail stepped further into the main hall and began looking around for Susan and her friends.

“Wow,” said Andrew, he was still following her, “look at that one.” He pointed to a very large canvas oil portrait of an older woman. It was so realistic at first glance it almost looked like a photograph. He stepped away from her to look at it closer and Abigail saw her chance to get away from him. So she quickly left the main hall and went into a smaller room full of sculptures. Since the gallery she worked at only had paintings, she appreciated sculptures much more. She milled about looking at different ones for a while. Some of them she really liked and some she found … well disturbing. Sometimes she really didn’t understand art - especially modern art. And as she looked at the sculptures she also kept one eye out for Andrew, incase he found her again, and the other eye out for Susan and her friends.

After the sculptures she made her way into a room of about the same size with more paintings. When she got here, she was surprised to find Sara, Tom, and Andrew. She turned her back to them so that, hopefully, they wouldn’t see her but no such luck.

“Abigail,” her name was hailed loudly across the room.

Abigail looked up to find out who had called her and a smile of relief graced her lips when she recognized her boss waving to her.

“There you are,” said Sara from behind her just as she was going to go to her boss, “we were looking for you.”

“Were you?” Abigail tried to play innocent.

“Is that your boss?” Sara asked quickly as she noticed the older woman gesturing Abigail over to her, “did you know she would be here?”

“No,” said Abigail truthfully, “I didn’t.”

“Will you introduce me to her?” Sara asked in an awed sort of voice.

“Sure,” said Abigail as she walked across the room to the older woman.

“Hello Deborah,” she said with a smile once she was close enough to be heard, “I didn’t know you were going to be here.”

“Yes, well,” said Deborah with a weak smile, “must scout out the competition mustn’t I?” Abigail could think of nothing to say so she nodded. “I must say,” continued Deborah glancing around, “this is a rather impressive gallery.” She did not seem happy about this assessment of the place, “Have you met the owner yet?”

“No,” said Abigail, “we only just got here.”

“We?” said Deborah with her eyebrows raised and it was then Abigail realized that she’d forgotten her manners.

“Oh,” she said, surprised at herself, “Deborah, this is my friend Sara,” Sara had been standing a little behind Abigail out of her line of sight and very quiet. It had been quite easy for Abigail to forget about her. However, at the mention of her name she stepped forward to be introduced, “Sara,” Abigail continued, “this is my boss, Deborah Barry.”

“The Deborah Barry?” Sara asked in an openly surprised voice that made a few of the people standing nearby glance over. Deborah nodded with a soft and humble smile. Abigail knew she loved this type of reaction from people. “Abby,” said Sara turning to her, “You never told me you work for the Deborah Barry.”

That was a lie. Abigail had been so excited when she got the job she had told Sara immediately while nearly bursting with excitement. Sara had had to ask who Deborah Barry was and Abigail had had to explain. “Well,” she said presently trying to look embarrassed, “I didn’t want to brag…”

“That’s quite alright dear,” said Deborah with a dismissive wave of her hand, “Are you a fan of my works dear?” she asked Sara, steering the conversation back to herself, as she usually did.

“Oh yes,” said Sara and this was actually true. Once Abigail had told Sara that her new boss was once a fairly famous artist they had looked up her artwork online and Sara had loved it immediately. She had at least three of her original paintings hanging on various walls around her flat.

Abigail had completely zoned out of the conversation Sara and Deborah were now having, as she tended to do when people talked enthusiastically about themselves. Instead she gazed about the room looking either at the paintings on the walls, which were rather beautiful, or at the different people that had come to the opening.

It was then that she thought she spotted him. His piercing grey eyes met hers for only a second and when she looked back they were gone. Her eyes raked the room quickly looking for him in an almost panicked fashion, while still being conscious enough not to draw attention to herself. After a minute or so of finding nothing she shook her head slightly – she must have hallucinated – and refocused her attention on the people around her, still keeping an alert posture just incase.

“… is my favorite city,” unfortunately the person closest to her was Andrew, “I mean, of the ones I’ve been to of course.”

“Abby,” Abigail gratefully turned to the person at her left elbow and immediately grinned – it was Susan.

“Hey!” She exclaimed, more thankful to see her cousin then she ever thought possible.

“Hi,” Susan replied with a semi-confused smile, “what’re you doing here?”

“Deborah told me about this opening months ago,” said Abigail as she gestured toward her boss whom was still talking to Sara, “and then Hannah reminded me earlier, and we were right down the street, so we thought we’d stop by.”

“Oh,” Susan was smiling, “well I’m glad you came.”

“Truth be told,” Abigail said in a low voice, so as not to be overheard, “Sara set me up on a double date and I was trying to find a way to escape – any suggestions? My only plan didn’t work.”

Susan grinned and looked behind Abigail to Andrew whom Abigail could hear talking loudly. “Him?” She asked quietly with a mischievous twinkle in her eye, “he’s kind of cute.”

“No, he’s not,” Abigail replied sincerely, “please help me.”

“Why can’t you just leave?”

“Because we walked here from Porters and Sara drove us there.”

“Oh,” Susan still had that mischievous twinkle in her eye, “are you sure he’s that bad?”

“Positive,” Abigail replied, “you’ve got to help me.”

Susan smiled then looked around and, taking Abigail by the hand, led her across the room to a tall young man with dark brown hair and light blue eyes.

“Terry,” she said as she came up behind him and tapped him on the shoulder.

“Excuse me,” Terry said to the older man and woman he had been talking to. Then he turned to Susan with a smile.

“Can Abigail borrow your car?” Susan was never one to beat around the bush.
Terry frowned at Susan and then at Abigail, “Why?” He asked, as he folded his arms across his chest.

“Because,” said Susan in a low voice, “she can’t apparate and we can.”

“Yes but do you remember my mother asking me if we would arrive here the normal way?”

“And we did,” Susan replied, “but she didn’t say anything about how we leave.”

“Well, how did you get here?” He asked addressing Abigail this time.

“With her friend,” Susan replied before Abigail had the chance, “who set her up on a double date and she’s having a terrible time. The guy she’s with is a complete jerk. Come on Terry,” she begged, “I’ll return it tomorrow morning.”

Terry pouted for a second before unfolding his arms and reaching into his pocket for his keys. He pulled them out and handed them to Abigail. “Be careful with it ok?”

“Absolutely,” Abigail replied with a grin, “thank you so much.”

“Yeah, yeah,” he mumbled as she kissed him on the cheek. “Get out of here before I change my mind.”

“Come on,” Susan took Abigail’s hand and led her through the gallery, to the exit, down the street to a parking lot, and finally to Terry’s car.

“You’re the greatest,” Abigail grinned as she hugged her cousin in thanks.

“I know,” said Susan, also grinning.

“I so owe you,” Abigail exclaimed as she got into Terry’s car.

“Yeah you do,” said Susan, “and I will hold you to that.”
Abigail wasted no time driving away incase anyone tried to stop her. All she wanted was to see George.

So what is the verdict? Good? :tu: Bad? :td: Let me know by clicking here and leaving me feedback! (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?t=37082&page=8)