Surprise
Harry watched Hedwig fly off to deliver his message to Sirius. But, he knew that Sirius was already dead, and that Hedwig was on a never ending journey. Maybe he should call her back. But no, she was smart enough to come back on her own after searching fruitlessly. Harry trudged back to the Gryffindor tower, his heart heavy, and thoughts of what Dumbledore had said to him flew around his brain like irritating mosquitoes.
"Harry, Harry!" called Hermione from the common room. Ron was sitting next to her, examining his arms, where the brains had attacked him.
"What?" asked Harry tiredly.
"Mate, you're going to have to start your normal life again," said Ron, looking up. "Look, even my bruises have started healing."
"He's right for once, Harry. You really need to stop moping around. It's bad for your health. You haven't eaten for two days."
Harry sighed and looked at his two friends. "I'm going to sleep."
"Hey! What kind of reaction was that?" Ron shouted. Some small first years looked at him with frightened eyes.
"Leave him alone. He'll get over it sooner or later. Harry, don't forget to finish your homework!" called Hermione. Ron didn't shout anymore, but muttered some very rude words under his breath.
Harry sat on his bed, looking out at the starry sky. He had no plans to do his homework. He wondered where Sirius was now. Harry was scared to sleep, for fear that his dreams would come back again, dreams of that dreadful corridor, dreams that had caused everything. But he soon drifted off to sleep, though, miraculously, he had none of those dreams.
The next day was dreary, matching Harry's mood. Luna, Neville, and Ginny glanced at him sympathetically when he passed them. He was in no mood to eat, but went to the great hall in case Ron and Hermione started worrying about him.
Hermione poked him hard when the owls came in, dripping with muddy rain. Harry didn't look up, since he knew Hedwig wouldn't return until she had searched everywhere for Sirius.
"Ouch! Blimey, Hermione, do you always poke people that hard?"
"Sorry, but look! Hedwig's here!"
Harry stared at the snowy owl. Definitely Hedwig. She dropped a wet envelope on his empty plate and flew off.
Harry's hands trembled as he reached for the envelope. He opened it and read. The writing was familiar and comfortable, but what it said was the biggest surprise of all. He could only gape at the words, mixed emotions in his mind.
I hope you liked it! The next chapter is coming soon!