Smile

by h-scribble

It's a week after the battle. Charlie tries to remember everything about his brother but finds out he has missed out on so much. He consoles his family and George as much as he can, but ultimately realises that one must relearn how to smile in time.

1. Fred and George

I'm 11 years old. I'm teaching the four year old twins to tie their shoes. "Pinch them to make bunny ears, and then over and under and pull them tight." George grins as his third attempt is successful. Fred looks up at me with sky blue eyes and asks, "Why bunnies?"

I'm 18 years old. I ruffle the 11 year old twins' messy red hair and leave for work, 2095 kilometres away. "Don't worry! I'll see you guys soon." George's smile fades, but he hugs me back. Fred asks, grinning like the devil, "I get your room, right?"

I'm 22 years old. I send an owl to the 15 year old twins to tell them I'm staying in Romania. "I'll try to get time off soon to visit.." George laughs, clinging on to the post card. Fred grabs the card away and replies, "Send me a dragon?"

I'm 27 years old, bloodied up with my wand held limply in my hand. I stand in the broken, dark hall I knew so well, near the 20 year old twins. I pat Mum on the back, but won't... can't console her. George won't look at anyone; he had been conscious of crying since he first went to school, but doesn't seem to care now. Fred is silent.