Just like the movies, I'll be splitting the seventh and final book into two parts. This is the last stretch and the pinnacle of Rachele's life revolving around Hogwarts.

Enjoy!

Chapter One – Acceptance and Love

Two hands clutched onto the newspaper with white knuckles as each article turned more horrific than the last.

DARK MARK SPARKS PANIC

A vivid picture of the infamous school of Hogwarts Witchcraft and Wizardry was shown on the front page. But what gained peoples attention was the threat of the Dark Mark looming over the castle. The article went on about how Death Eaters infiltrated the school and the unfortunate death of the headmaster Albus Dumbledore.

Smaller stories surrounded this one, such as attacks in certain locations in both the Muggle and the wizarding world. Murders were recurring regularly, reports of Muggle families being slaughteed without mercy.

Robert Kordellus sighed and put the paper back on the coffee table. It had been nearly two weeks since the incident that concluded their sixth year. All he could remember was seeing the lifeless body of a man he greatly respected, and the trembling, traumitised form of the person he cared for most.

He hadn't seen Rachele since she asked him to take care of Claudia. He had owled home, explaining the situation, accompanying the younger girl on the train and escorting her safely to their remote home in the country. The original plan was to stay one night and wait for Rachele to return from her time of isolation, but that day passed, then the next and the next after that, the days stretching into a fortnight. With each nightfall that came, the more Robert's worry grew. He sympathised that she was hurting after Dumbledore's death; but it had been approximately twelve days and he hadn't heard a single word from her. 'Rachele...where are you? Please come home soon.'

"Robert?" Claudia came trudging into the living room, still clad in her pyjamas and rubbing the sleep from her eyes.

He smiled at her. "Morning sleepy-head."

"Morning." She yawned. "Is she home yet?"

Robert looked away. "No...not yet." This was a daily routine for them. Every morning Claudia would ask for her best friend, and every morning he was burdened with giving her the same answer.

"I see..." Claudia sighed as she trudged dejectedly into the kitchen for some breakfast. Robert sadly watched her go, wishing there was more he could do to comfort her. For the past twelve days, they had fallen into an automatic state, unsure of how to function without Rachele's optimistic demeanor. Claudia was lonely without her and Robert could only offer so much companionship for her. She needed her best friend, it was the only way.

Late that night, Robert once again found himself incapable of sleep. He had not been able to rest well not knowing Rachele's whereabouts. All he could do was sit and bite his nails, praying to whatever power there was that she was safe and sound.

The sound of creaking footsteps caused his head to snap up. He knew Claudia was in her bedroom, and he hadn't heard the front door open; someone else was in the house. On full alarm, he stood up and took a defensive stance; was someone trying to break in? But that's impossible, the only person who was able to sneak in undetected into this house was...

Robert blinked as the figure stepped into his view. "R...Rachele?"

The brunette stared at him seemingly unfazed by his raised fists. "Robbie..." Her normally bright green eyes were dull, the life sucked out of them like a dead fish. She was pale and skinny, eyes sunken from exhaustion, she looked awful. But she was alive and Robert felt almost two weeks of tension wash away to be replaced with utmost relief.

"Thank the heavens." He closed the distance and wrapped his arms around her. "We've been so worried."

Rachele just stood there with her arms limp at her sides. "Where's Claudia?"

He backed away, his arms still gripping her shoulders. "She's asleep. Rachele where have you been?"

She brushed him away and stepped around him. "I'm gonna check on her." He tiptoed after her down the hall but remained in the door frame as Rachele entered the younger girl's room. She perched on the edge of her bed and reached down to tengerly brush away her fringe.

"I missed you." Rachele whispered. She bent down and planted a sisterly kiss on her forehead. "I'll see you in the morning." She stood up and walked back out without a single glance at the man watching her. Confused by her aloofness towards him, he followed her back into the living room.

"Rach..."

"Not now Robbie." She said tiredly. "Later..."

Her defeated tone shut him up immediately. He wasn't going to pry when she was so visibly exhausted. "Would you like me to cook something for you?" When she glanced at him he smiled. "Please...let me help you."

She sighed as she flopped onto the couch. "Fine."

He marched to the kitchen like a man on a mission. This girl needed food, and he was going to provide the best meal for her. She had taught him enough about the appliances Muggles used for cooking so he was confident in his ability to serve her. As he worked, he would glance up to check how she was doing. She never moved; she just sat there unflinching, eyes fixed blankly on the wall opposite her but focused on something that wasn't really there. This wasn't the Rachele he knew and loved, this foreign girl was scarred, hurt and angry. But he wasn't about to give up, he would do whatever it took to bring the old Rachele back.

"Here, hope you enjoy." He placed a large plate in front of her a short while later. It was packed with eggs, sausages, hash browns and much more.

"Thank you." Rachele muttered picking up her knife and fork. She began eating in small bites, Robert had never seen her use such polite table manners before. Normally she would wolf her food down without a care.

"You're welcome." He rubbed his neck. "Can I get you anything else?"

"No."

"Okay." This was awkward. "Uh...well if you want something, let me know."

Rachele's hand paused mid air, her fork raised half-way to her mouth. Slowly she placed it back onto her plate. "Actually...there is..."

Robert sat up straighter. "Yeah?"

Her soul-less eyes bore into his skull. "I need you to leave."

Robert stared at her. "What?"

"I haven't forgotten Robbie. You told me you loved me. Is it still true?"

Robert blushed. "Oh...I uh...yeah..." He was at a loss of words.

A deep frown marred her face. "Sorry, but I don't feel the same way."

It felt like a thousand daggers had just pierced Robert's chest. He had always mentally prepared himself for the small chance Rachele would reject him, but nobody could've warned him of the heart-break that would come along with it. And the worst part, she was regarding him with such emptiness, her dead eyes staring at him with such insignificance like she never once cared about him.

"So...that's it then." He choked out. "You just want me to leave."

"If I want to recover, I need my friends near me. I can't be distracted by some pitiful love-sick boy whose head is in the clouds."

Robert nodded, swallowing the annoying lump that had lodged in his throat. "If that's what you want, I won't bother you anymore." With his head bowed in defeat, he walked over to the hearth and grabbed a fistful of Floo powder. He stepped inside, and held out his hand, but hesitated at the last moment. Rachele had her back facing him, but he could see the side of her face. He was shocked to see a steam of tears flowing down her soft cheeks and it took every resolve in him to not run over and take her in his arms. Forcing himself to look away, he yelled out his address and flung the powder at his feet, the green flames rising up and lifting him away. One thing he did miss was the brunette tightly clenching her shaking fists and muttering repeated apologies to a boy that could not hear them.

(The next morning)

Claudia's eyes fluttered open as the soft morning rays shone through her window. She slowly sat up and yawned, giving her arms a huge stretch. She groggily stepped out of bed and made for the dining area, no doubt Robert had woken up at the crack of dawn and prepared something already. Her theory proved correct as mouth-watering fumes wafted under her nose. There waiting on the table was a banquet of all varieties of breakfast foods. 'Odd, he never usually makes so much. What's the occasion?'

"Good morning."

Claudia's eyes went wide at the unsuspecting voice. She looked up in surprise, straight into the comforting green orbs of her best friend. "Rachele...is that you?"

The older girl smiled. "Yeah, sorry I took so long."

Claudia launched herself into her arms, letting out a suppressed sob. "I missed you, please don't leave ever again."

Rachele stroked her hair. "I won't...I promise." She leaned her head on hers. "I missed you too."

The girls held each other for several minutes, grateful to be reunited again after weeks apart. Eventually Claudia pried herself away, tears still clinging to her lashes.

"Did you make all this?" She said gesturing to the feast.

"Yeah, I wanted to do something special."

Claudia smiled. "It looks amazing...wait..." Her eyes scanned the room before landing back on her. "Where's Robert?"

At the mention of his name, Rachele's eyes dimmed somewhat and her smiled vanished. "He went home." She said looking away.

Claudia frowned, not fooled for a minute. "What happened?"

Rachele let out a relenting sigh before filling her in on what had occurred the previous night. Of course, Claudia was none too happy with this development.

"Why would you do that?" She said appallingly. "Do you know how worried he was about you? He barely slept!"

Rachele frowned. "It's for the best."

"Give me one good reason why."

Rachele swallowed, refusing to let her emotions get the best of her. "He told me he loved me. I can't deal with that kind of distraction right now, I have too much to deal with."

Claudia studied her closely. "You're scared."

Rachele shot her a look. "What are you talking about?"

"You scared of falling for him, you don't want anything to change between you. Romance terrifies you Rachele."

Rachele gave a stubbon huff. "Don't be ridiculous. You think this comes down to some cheesy mush? I just lost the only father figure I've ever known, the only family I had! And you want me to think about some lovey dovey feelings that I might have for Robbie that I know aren't there?"

Claudia stared at her. "Only family huh?"

Rachele placed a hand on her face. "Merlin...I'm sorry, you know that's not what I meant Claudia."

"No it's okay, I get it. He was the man who raised you, taught you everything in life. You loved him."

Rachele felt her knees buckle and quickly took a seat at the table. "I can't do this anymore. I thought going away and being alone would help me clear my thoughts. But every night all I can see is him...lying there...never to wake up again. I just..." She buried her face in her hands. "I can't..."

Claudia sat next to her. "Is that why you didn't go to his funeral?"

Rachele's lip quivered. "I couldn't see his body again. It was nothing but a painful reminder...I couldn't bear it."

Claudia reached up and pulled her hands away from her face, gently clutching them in her own. "I know you're hurting Rach, but please don't waste yourself away. I'm sure all he ever wanted was for you to live the best life you could. You were his daughter, I know he loved you like no other." She gave her an encouraging smile. "Honour him Rachele...remember him...and live."

Her friend's words had made it's mark and Rachele finally felt herself letting go. Memories of her life with Dumbledore flooded her mind as she broke down, accepting him as her friend, her mentor, her headmaster but most importantly as the man who gave her the world and allowed her to become who she was today. She would always remember him and keep him in a special place in her heart forever. And with that her last wall crumbled, her head falling onto the table as she finally accepted Dumbledores death. Claudia just held her hands as the heart-broken girl cried hysterically, remembering the last words her mentor had spoken to her.

"Don't worry about me little one. I'll be okay."

(Kordellus mansion)

The instant Robert had returned the previous morning, his mother had bombarded him with questions regarding his long absence away from home. Not in the mood to deal with her philanderings, he had simply brushed past her and gone directly to his room, shutting the door and placing several locking charms on it. He had been in there ever since, only coming out for necessitites such as eating or using the bathroom. For several hours his parents had pounded on his door, demanding him to come out and talk to them. But his silence spoke louder than words and they eventually left him alone, his mother offering comfort when he needed it. Robert lay on his bed twirling a pure white feather quill in his hand, his mind fixed on the girl who had given it to him. That Christmas now seemed like a lifetime ago as he remembered the bright smile and sparkling green eyes that greeted him as the gift was handed to him. That bubbly perky girl was the one he fell in love with and he desperately wanted her back.

Robert sighed deeply to himself. "Snap out of it moron. It's over, she doesn't need you anymore."

But nothing could null this unbearable throb in his chest. He couldn't erase the image of her empty green eyes staring at him, the sound of her blasé voice as she cut him out of her life for good. He knew she had been hurt in the worst way and her pushing him away was a temporary solution for dealing with her problems. So no matter how much it tortured him, he would respect her wishes and give her the space she needed, even if it meant the fatal crushing of his own heart.

Over the next several days, Rachele began showing gradual signs of improvement. After her breakdown at the table, she was finally recovering and returning back to her former happy self. Claudia was a big help in many ways, cooking the meals most nights, comforting her if she ever felt the urge to cry again and staying with her at night until she fell asleep; Rachele felt immensely grateful towards her best friend. But even still, there was a piece of her missing that she couldn't quite figure out. She would wake up with a start some mornings, finding tears streaming down her face. She felt this heavy guilt weighing down on her and she couldn't figure out why until a few days later when she decided to have a scrummage through some of her drawers. She threw out any worthless junk that she had kept as a child, but kept meaningful items that had the memory of her mentor attached to it. Eventually she came across a small jewellery box she completely forgot she had. She opened it curiously and gasped at what was inside. There lay a necklace with a glistening blue snowflake pendant at the end of it and a pair of matching earrings sitting just above it. She fingered the trinket gently as a certain blue eyed man flashed in her mind.

'Robbie.' His name caused a wave of overwhelming regret to crash down on her. She hadn't seen or heard from him since she completely rejected him. She remembered the harsh words she had spoken to him and the guilt weighed down on her like several tons of bricks. She sat down on the end of her bed with the box still cradled in her hands, feeling tears prickling in the corner of her eyes.

'Merlin...what have I done?'

Claudia sprinted into her room when she heard heart-wretching sobs echoing down the hall. She found Rachele on her bed, head bowed down with tears spilling down her face. She saw what she was holding and her eyes softened with sympathy.

"Oh Rachele..."

Watery green eyes looked up at her. "Claudia...I'm a despicable human being."

Claudia sat next to her and put an arm around her. "No you're not, it was an honest mistake."

Rachele shook her head. "He's never going to forgive me, I said such awful things to him."

Claudia hugged her close. "He understood the pain you were in, he doesn't blame you. He knew you needed your space."

"I'm sorry Robbie." She whispered to no-one. "I'm so so sorry. I don't deserve you."

Claudia frowned knowing she wasn't the one to comfort Rachele this time. Coming to a swift decision, she left the room and went into her own bedroom. She rummaged through a bag until she pulled out what she was looking for; a mobile phone. These devices were very recent inventions in the Muggle world and Rachele had patiently talked her through with how to use one. She had given one to Robert as well so the three friends could communicate quickly in case of emergency; this was definitely one of those times. She scrolled through her contacts until she found 'Kordellus' before pressing the call button. It rang several times until there was a distinctive 'click' on the other end.

"HELLO? CAN YOU HEAR ME?"

Claudia pulled the phone away at the loud voice. "Robert! You don't have to yell! Just speak normally!"

"Oh sorry Claudia, haven't got used to this thing yet."

She sighed. "Never mind that, you need to get back here right now."

There was silence for a moment.

"Why?"

"She needs you. You need to talk to her."

There was a long sigh. "I can't, she doesn't need me in her life anymore."

"Of course she does. She's miserable without you."

"How do you know that?"

"She found the necklace and earrings you gave her. It triggered something in her, she won't stop saying your name. She won't stop crying."

That was enough for him apparently. "I'll be right there." He said firmly before hanging up.

Claudia smiled. "That was easy."

Not a minute later, she heard the whoosh of the Floo being activated and went out to the main living area to find Robert covered in soot but looking very determined.

"Where is she?"

Claudia pointed down the hall. "In her room."

Robert rushed past her towards Rachele's bedroom. He halted at her doorway, taking in the sight of the girl on the bed. She hadn't moved since Claudia found her. She still clutched the box with her head bowed down, her long hair covering her face. But Robert could clearly hear the sound of her weeping and suddenly felt very responsible for the state she was in.

"Hey Gryffindor." He said softly.

Her head shot up so fast he was worried her neck might get whiplash. Her reaction was instantaneous; she abandoned the box on the bed and leapt towards him, arms wrapping tightly around his neck with her face buried deeply into his shoulder.

"I'm sorry...I'm so sorry..." Her body was trembling.

Robert just smiled and held her close, using one hand to stroke her hair; Merlin did he miss her. "There's nothing to apologise for Rach. I'm just glad you're feeling better."

She let out a whimper. "I didn't mean any of it, none of it. I can't imagine my life without you."

Robert rubbed her back soothingly. "I know, it's okay. I'm not going anywhere."

"I thought you hated me." She backed away to look at him. Some tears lingered, but her eyes were bright once again. Robert was never so grateful to see those beautiful sparkling orbs he had grown to love so much.

"You know I can never hate you." He said tenderly. "You were in a lot of pain. You needed time to heal." He gently brushed her longe fringe with his fingers. "Remember what I said in fourth year Rach, I'm always here if you need me. Always."

Rachele gazed curiously into his eyes, completely entranced by his sincerity. Now that she knew how he felt about her, she could see the love in his eyes shining down at her and felt a rush of warmth spread from her heart all the way down to her toes. How she never noticed his affection towards her all this time was beyond her; his eyes were so soft, caring, no judgement anywhere in his handsome features and-...wait, handsome? Yeah, Rachele won't deny she could see Robert was an incredibly good looking guy, and the thought of dating him had entered her mind more than once in the last several weeks. But she wasn't sure if she was ready to jump into anything new with him yet, especially since she just got him back. Knowing that he loved her was more than enough, and maybe someday soon she might fall for him too.

For the first time in weeks, she gave him a genuine smile before leaning in again to hug him tightly. "Thank you Robbie. You're the best."

He grinned. "Anytime Gryffindor."

With everything patched up between her and Robert, Rachele's mood rapidly improved. Her laughter was heard every day and she was back to giving out her daily dose of witty comments and goofy grins. She admitted that Dumbledore's death still stung, but the pain had lessened since fully coming to terms with the reality. She would always miss him, but she was now focused on fulfilling his final wishes and that was for her to enjoy life at the fullest with the people she loved most. And with Claudia and Robert beside her she was positive everything would work out okay.

As life in the household returned to a sense of normality, the state of the wizarding world was spiralling out of control. Every other day Rachele would disappear for hours to rescue some poor defenceless family, Muggles or wizards, from being massacered by rogue Death Eaters. She always forbid Claudia and Robert from coming along since she was fighting anywhere from dozens to hundreds of Voldemort's followers every time and knew that neither of them would survive for long. So the two were forced to sit and wait with gritted teeth while she took on the burden of protecting the innocent by herself. By the time Rachele returned home, she was unscathed but exhausted and they would do their part nursing her back to full capacity. Robert volunteered to cook her favourites, giving Claudia the special task of lying next to Rachele at night and making sure she had plenty of rest. After a couple of weeks of this never-ending cycle, the mental stress of it all began taking it's toll on the young female saviour. On one particular humid night, she came home later than usual, covered in sweat and blood, a haunted look in her eyes.

"Rach!" Robert raced over to her in alarm. "What happened?" Claudia hurried to fetch blankets and a bucket of water to clean her off.

"It was brutal I tell ya." Rachele groaned. "They were bloody everywhere, they're so damn persistant."

Robert looked her over. "Is that your blood?"

She shook her head. "No, I was never hurt. I managed to save a few people who were close to death...others weren't so lucky. I just happened to get their blood on me."

Robert led her over to the couch. "You were gone a lot longer this time."

Rachele growled. "Cos those bloody idiots wouldn't go away! They just kept coming in numerous swarms." She sighed tiredly. "I had no idea that noseless wanker had so many followers."

Robert chuckled. "You're the only person I know that can insult Voldemort so casually."

She shrugged. "He's the world's biggest try-hard, nothing to be scared about." She smiled at Claudia who was wiping the blood from her face. "Thanks, but I think I'll have a shower instead. It's all over my clothes." She left for her bedroom, leaving the other two on the couch.

"She's becoming fed up." Claudia said watching her best friend. "This war is stressing her out."

Robert sighed. "It's stressing all of us out." He stood up and headed over to the hearth. "I better head home before my mother starts freaking out again." He chuckled. "Plus my father is insisting on doing some physical training first thing so I have to be up early."

Claudia nodded. "No problem. I'll let Rachele know when she's done with her shower."

He grinned. "Thanks, I owe you one. See ya Claudia." He gave a friendly wave as the green flames took him away.

Rachele emerged from the bathroom about twenty minutes later, blood free and in fresh clean clothes. She wandered back into the loungeroom while drying her hair with a towel. "Hey." She glanced around. "Where'd Robbie go?"

"Home." Claudia replied with her nose in a book. "His dad wants to get him up early to train or something."

Rachele raised an eyebrow. "Train?"

Claudia shrugged. "Must be prepping him for the war."

Rachele frowned. The thought of Robert diving head-first into battle unnerved her; there was a good reason she forbid them both from joining her in the fighting. But if his own parents needed his help in protecting their family, then who was she to stand in his way?

"Don't worry." Claudia said suddenly. "I'm sure he'll be back tomorrow."

Rachele smiled. "I know." 'How the hell does she do that?'

Claudia proved to be right. The following afternoon just as the girls finished up lunch, there was a flash of green and a sooty and sweaty Robert staggered into the living room.

"Robbie!" Rachele, who had been idling plucking her guitar strings moments ago, shot to her feet flinging the instrument beside her. "You gave me a right start!"

Robert grinned, running a hand through his soggy hair. "Sorry, I was in a hurry."

She gave him a once over. "You look like hell, what happened to you?"

He huffed. "Dad's putting me through hell. Training is a bloody nightmare." He gave her a pleading look. "Can I use your shower?"

Rachele laughed. "You poor thing. Go right ahead."

"Thank you, you're a life saver." He hurried into the bathroom, locking the door behind him. She could hear him shuffling for a moment before there was the rushing sound of running water. She chuckled and went back to the couch to continue with her music. She was practising a melody for several minutes when Claudia emerged from her bedroom. The younger girl simply smiled at the scene and headed into the kitchen for an afternoon snack. Not too long after that, Rachele heard the shower water from the bathroom cease and fathomed Robert had finished cleaning himself. Moments later the door swung open and footsteps padded across the carpet.

"Um...Rach? I need your help."

Rachele halted with her playing and turned around. "Why what's the...the...m-matter...?" The last word stuttered and drawled off her tongue as her mouth suddenly went desert dry. There stood Robert, wet hair sticking up in all directions and wearing nothing but a white towel which was wrapped securely around his waist. Her green eyes roamed all over his naked upper torso; his toned arms, broad chest and...'holy sweet merlin has he always had abs?' Rachele lost all ability to form words, all she could think about was those muscly arms and having them wrapped around her.

Robert, however, was oblivious to her fan-girl state. "I forgot to bring spare clothes. Do you have something I can borrow?"

She forced herself to look into his eyes. "Uh...m-magic. You can c-conjure some." The more she spoke, the warmer her face felt. 'Damn it control yourself!'

Robert smacked his forehead. "Of course! Some pure-blood I am." He grinned at her. "Thanks Rach." And he disappeared into the bathroom again.

Rachele sat frozen in place, her mind spinning millions of miles an hour. Seeing Robert half-naked and...well...really hot, triggered something deep within her she never realised was there. Here was this gorgeous guy who had been her friend for so many years, had never left her side, comforted her when she needed it most and just knew her better than anyone, heck maybe even more than herself in some ways. Every memory she had of him flashed through her mind right from that seemingly distant fateful day when they had introduced themselves in Professor Flitwicks classroom. She watched as through the years, he was a constant by her side, an ally she could rely on, a friend she could talk to, a loyal companion who never once turned his back on her. And now, he was the man that she...

...loved.

Rachele's eyes widened as the sudden realisation struck her like lightning.

She was in love with Robert Kordellus.

"Rachele?" Claudia's voice cut through her thoughts. "Are you okay? You look kinda stunned. Did Tiger say something weird again?"

Rachele looked up at her best friend with round eyes. "I'm done for."

Claudia rose an eyebrow. "You what now?"

Rachele bit her lip. "I don't know what to do."

Claudia sighed. "Spit it out already will you?"

"I love him."

Both of Claudia's eyebrows had now disappeared into her hairline. "I'm sorry, what now?"

"Robbie...I-I'm in love with him."

Before she could blink Claudia was on her knees and grabbing Rachele's hands. "Seriously? Are you sure? Don't toy with me!"

Rachele leaned back slightly, a little intimidated by her eagerness. "Um...well yeah I just realised it."

Claudia raised her arms and let out a small whoop. "It's about time! Yes the torture is over!"

Rachele rolled her eyes. "Whatever." She moved to grab her guitar again but Claudia clutched her wrist.

"Wait, wait how did this happen?"

"Huh?"

"What made you realise you loved him?"

Rachele blushed. "Uuuhhh..." She really didn't want to tell her how her feelings was ignited by Robbie's wet glistening body. But she also hated lying to her best friend.

She sighed in defeat. "He forgot to bring spare clothes. He came out asking for help he-" Her blush deepened. "H-he only had a towel on...and he was wet." She swore her entire face had turned a deep scarlet.

Claudia blinked once, then twice, then collapsed onto the floor in a fit of giggles. Rachele glared down at her. "It's not funny."

"Yeah it is!" Claudia gasped. "I get why it took you so long to fall for him!"

Rachele squinted at her. "Why's that?"

"Two words dear Rachele." Claudia grinned holding up two fingers. "Physical attraction."

Rachele frowned. "Excuse me?"

"You've always only ever considered him as your friend, you never saw him as a 'hot guy'. So the only thing missing was being drawn to his good looks. And since you just saw him mostly naked that must've been the final piece for everything to click into place."

Rachele let out a small 'ha.' "That's a very elaborate analysis Miss Clarken."

Claudia held up her hands. "Hey you're the one that admitted to falling for him after seeing him with just a towel on."

Rachele blushed again, realising she was right. "Well...I-I...you know...argh just shut up." She picked up her guitar with a huff. "Now if you excuse me I was in the middle of a song."

Claudia grinned. "I'm right aren't I?"

Rachele just shot her a glare, signalling with one look the conversation was over. Claudia giggled but backed away and sat on the opposite sofa to dig into the snack she had prepared for herself.

The bathroom door swung open revealing a freshly dressed Robert, clad in dark jeans and a casual blue t-shirt that brought out his eyes. "Thanks for the shower." He smiled at Rachele, who blushed.

"No problem."

He stared at her. "You alright?"

"Yup. Dandy." She said not looking up from her guitar. "Just focused, that's all."

He nodded. "Cool. I'm gonna go raid your fridge if that's okay. All that training made me hungry."

She waved her hand. "Help yourself." She shot a warning glare to Claudia who was quietly giggling to herself. "Shut it."'She mentally snipped at her but Claudia just shrugged it off.

For much of the next hour it was mostly quiet; Claudia nibbling on her snacks while reading her book. Robert munching on some well earned late lunch. Both were contently listening to the harmony of Rachele's angelic voice as she sang and expertly plucked the strings with her eyes closed. Robert smiled tenderly at how beautiful her singing was; it always blew him away with just how amazing and talented she was.

The afternoon passed by uneventfully, shifting into a cloudless starry night. Robert had returned home leaving the girls alone once again. With not much to do, they wound up sitting on Rachele's bed, chatting aimlessly about this and that. Soon a subject came up that both knew they couldn't avoid forever.

"When're you gonna tell him?"

Rachele raised an eyebrow. "Tell who what?"

Claudia gave her a look. "Don't pretend like you don't know."

Rachele sighed, leaning back onto her seat. "I don't know if I ever will."

Claudia frowned. "Why not? You know he feels the same way."

Rachele smiled. "I know, that's not the problem." When Claudia silently asked her to elaborate she added. "There's no point. We're both just gonna suffer later."

Claudia instantly understood, and she empathised. "You're scared that if you have a life with him, you'll only end up losing him in the end."

"I'm not just scared of it Claudia, I know it's going to happen. I'm going to watch everyone I love die, and I'll spend decades longer living a life of isolation." She looked at her hands. "I couldn't bare the pain of losing him."

Claudia stared at her "I think you should tell him."

Rachele sighed. "Why should I? Give me one good reason."

Claudia smiled. "I'll give you two. First; you can ignore this and stay friends but watch him die anyway. Second; tell him how you feel, have a relationship with him and love him as much as you can. Yes it'll be painful when he goes, but at least you know you had a full life with him."

Rachele stared gobsmacked at the younger girl. How was she supposed to argue with that? That was what she loved about Claudia, she had a solution for everything, no matter how critical the issue was. She pondered carefully about her advice and decided she was right. She'll only regret it more if she doesn't take the risk; right now more than anything she wanted a chance to show Robert how much he meant to her. The next opportunity that came her way, she was going to tell him she loved him.

"Thanks Claudia." She grinned. "You always know what to say."

Claudia beamed. "So you'll tell him?"

Rachele chuckled. "Yeah I'll tell him."

"When, when?"

She smiled. "How does tomorrow sound?"

Claudia squealed and hugged her. "I'm so happy for you!"

Rachele laughed and hugged her back. "Down girl it hasn't happened yet."

"But it will." Claudia grinned. "We both know Robert loves you too. Trust me it's gonna happen."

Rachele couldn't erase the giddy smile on her face. "I hope so."

As expected, Robert tumbled from the fireplace around lunchtime the following day, once again saturated in sweat from his morning training sessions. Any plans Rachele might've had to confess to him went straight out the window when she smelt the potent fumes coming off him. So instead she pointed him to the shower to make himself more fragrant. As she heard the shower being turned on, she could feel a tangle of knots building in her stomach. What did she have to be nervous about? He loved her too didn't he? He even told her so. Then why did she feel so nauseous?

"Is he here yet?"

Rachele started at the voice. "Claudia! Don't do that!"

Claudia simply looked at her. "Well is he?"

Rachele sighed. "Yeah, yeah he's taking a shower."

Claudia waggled her eyebrows. "Maybe you should go in and tell him now. You're just itching to see him in all his glory aren't you?"

Rachele's jaw dropped. "Claudia!"

"I'm kidding! Just hurry up alright? You're pulling my teeth right now."

"Relax will you?" She said in a harsh whisper. "I'm working on it!"

"It's taking too long!"

"You're not the one who has to confess you know!"

"But it's been hell watching you two! I've had to keep my mouth shut for three years!"

Both girls were so busy bickering, they didn't notice the door swinging open and Robert stepping out. He rose an eyebrow at the lively pair.

"Everything alright here ladies?"

Rachele froze in horror; crap how much did he hear? "I-uh...I..."

"Fine!" Claudia covered for them. "Just deciding on dinner."

Robert raised an eyebrow. "That's a loud conversation over food."

"Rachele's being picky."

That snapped Rachele out of it. "Hey! I am not!"

"Then decide already!" She shot her a secret look and Rachele knew she wasn't talking about dinner.

"Alright I see I'm in the danger zone here." Robert raised his hands as he scooted around them. "I'll leave you to it." As he walked away, Claudia signalled Rachele with her eyes.

'Now's your chance!'

'NOW?'

'You said you would!'

'Not straight away! I have to wait for the right time!'

Claudia looked away. "Chicken..." She muttered.

Rachele glared. "Fine, watch me." She strutted towards the kitchen where she knew Robert had gone. He was always ravenous after a full morning of working out. She watched him shuffle around, pulling ingredients out of the fridge and placing them on the bench.

"Hey Robbie."

He shot a quick smile her way as he prepared his meal. "Hey Rach, everything alright?"

She swallowed. "Um...I-We...Watchamakin?" She blurted out. 'Damn it!'

"Sandwiches. Man am I starving." He replied.

She smiled. "Want any help?"

"Nah I'm all good. Would you like anything though?"

Rachele stared. What the hell? She offers her help and he refuses but then offers her something? Is this guy for real? "No thank you. I've eaten already."

He shrugged. "Suit yourself."

She simply nodded, then backed out of the kitchen, her nerves getting the best of her. She slumped next to Claudia on the couch who rose an amused eyebrow at her. "You're right...I'm a chicken."

Claudia smiled. "Nah, it wasn't the right time. He's too distracted with food right now. Never come between a man and his stomach."

Rachele chuckled. "I guess you're right."

"Just let it happen naturally. You'll know when the perfect opportunity comes up."

"Yeah, you're right."

So for the rest of the day, Rachele made several attempts to approach Robert but each time ended with her turning into a blubbering mess or Robert not paying enough attention. She was envious of his ability to stay so aloof, especially since she was keenly aware of his love for her. As the sky darkened, her courage slowly began diminishing along with any hope of telling him. He would be going home soon so she would just have to try again tomorrow.

"Well I better head back." Robert stood to his feet and stretched. "I may not be here for a few days, dads extending my training to the afternoons now too. So I'll try visiting when I can."

Crap, this wasn't good. Rachele knew that if she didn't act now, she'd never get another opportunity. "Robbie wait." She called out just as he was reaching for the powder. She shot Claudia a look and the younger girl nodded with a subtle grin before heading down the hall, calling a good night to Robert over her shoulder.

"You okay Gryffindor?" Robert asked with concern in his eyes.

Rachele took a deep breath. "Can we talk outside for a minute?"

"Uh...sure but, why outside?"

"I don't want Claudia to overhear, it's really important."

He sniggered. "Better put a magical barrier around us too."

Rachele smiled. "Good idea."

The pair stepped out the back and walked several metres away from the house. It was another clear night with a soft breeze blowing, bright stars twinkling above them; the perfect place to confess.

When she was satisfied they were far enough, she gently grabbed his arm and pulled him to a stop facing her. This was it, there was no going back.

"Hey you're shaking." Robert took her hand in both of his. "Are you cold?"

She smiled at his sweetness. "No I'm fine."

"Then what's wrong?"

"Robbie. Is what you said last term still true?" She asked, cutting to the chase. She didn't want to waste any time with this.

Robert rubbed his neck. "Um...depends on what you mean."

She felt her courage grow and looked directly into his eyes. "You told me you're in love with me." She saw his eyes widen slightly. "Do you still feel that way? Be honest."

Robert sighed. "Of course it is. I never stopped loving you and I never will." His gaze was on the ground. He sounded scared.

Rachele instantly felt guilty. He was expecting another rejection, he didn't suspect her feelings at all. She couldn't imagine the torture he must've endured having loved someone for so long and not be able to say a word. She was barely able to withstand a couple of days.

"Robbie." She said softly. "Look at me." He slowly lifted his head until ocean blue locked onto vivid green. "I know I hurt you. What I said to you that day was unforgivable. But...you don't have to be scared anymore." She lifted a hand and placed it on his cheek, rubbing his skin tenderly with her thumb. "My eyes have finally been opened to what's been in front of me all along. It's always been you..." She smiled lovingly at him. "You're the one Robbie."

Robert stared in disbelief at her, hardly believing what he was hearing. Was this really happening? Was this a dream? Was she saying what he thought she was? His heart was thumping loudly in his chest; could it be? His heart-rate spiked when she closed the distance and stretched her arms past his neck so they were dangling over the back of his shoulders. Her face was so close he was able to count the subtle freckles splattered across the bridge of her nose. 'Huh he never noticed them before.'

With their lips now millimeteres apart, Rachele spoke once more, her breath tickling the skin around his mouth.

"I love you Robbie." She whispered. "I'm sorry it took me so long." The last sentence was coated with deep sadness.

Robert smiled down at her. "It's okay Rach, I would've gladly waited another three years for you." It was his turn to wrap his arms around her, bringing her slightly closer to him. "And for the record; I love you too."

Rachele beamed, her green eyes brighter than ever. So this is what being in love felt like; a sensation of complete elation she never wanted to let go of. Unable to wait any longer, she swiftly closed that final gap between them as they finally shared their first kiss. There was no roaming of hands or anything overly intimate between them. They simply held each other with their lips locked together in a chaste embrace. Oxygen soon became an issue and they were forced to seperate. Neither one let go of the other but they leaned back far enough to gaze at each other.

With a burst of happiness, Robert reached down and picked her up, bringing out a shriek of surprise. He twirled her around and smiled up at her with pure joy radiating from his face. Rachele giggled while clinging onto his neck, her long hair blowing around them as they span. She gazed down at her new boyfriend, her love for him glowing brighter than the moon and stars combined.

The air was filled with their infectious laughter as the couple celebrated their long awaited union. Around them, nature rained their happiness onto them with soft winds and the moon and stars smiling from the heavens. The young pair came together for another kiss, content to stay in each others arms and overjoyed that they had at last found each other.

End of Chapter

:333 Daaaaww Rachele and Robert are finally together and happily in love. Claudia is so relieved, keeping this secret has been driving her nuts. From here on out, there will be a fair amount of mush between them but it won't slow the main flow of the story.

Coming up next...It's no longer safe for Harry to live at the Dursleys. Rachele must help him before the danger finds him first.

See ya then!