“We have got to think of a better way to get Harry out of that wretched house, once and for all” said Sirius, pausing to take a sip of Butterbeer and scowling slightly. “We’ve had no contact with him, just assurances that he’s alright. He must be going out of his mind!”

“What’s the matter Hermione?” asked Ginny, peering past George at her friend “Why do you look so nervous? Mum just said we could be here.”

“I know,” whispered Hermione, “I just think Harry should be here too. It feels wrong without him”

“Nothing. I just want to wait for Harry. He is the reason I am here.”

There was no denying that the last comment had stung Remus and Sirius.

Harry looked at Ginny, almost in shock. He had forgotten that she was there. Her words, along with Ron and Hermione’s, somehow made the feeling of betrayal even worse.

“I’m so sick of this.” he said, to no one in particular. “I’m so sick of my life being controlled by everyone else.”  

“Open the box, Harry.” Lottie said plainly.

Harry frowned, still reeling from the visible electric shock, but did as he was told. He took the key and pushed it into the lock. He turned it slowly and all eyes watched with bated breath.

“Hermione, what’s happened?” panted Sirius as they crossed the threshold of the kitchen.

“It’s Harry, isn’t it?” said Lottie, breathing heavily.

Heckles came from the table and Lottie braced herself. Her body went cold with fear as it began to tremble. Her heartbeat was pounding in her ears; she knew she would have to take what was coming. She didn’t have to wonder; she could hear them all thinking the same thing. She had read about the unforgivable curses but had never experienced one before.