To The Weasley Family,
Percy's quill hovered above the parchment as he wondered how on earth to start this letter.
I know that I was wrong. It's obvious that he came back – I just couldn't accept it. I was scared.
Heaving a sigh, the young man dipped his quill in the ink again as he gathered his thoughts.
I always wanted to be something more than 'just another Weasley'. I wanted to be important – to be known for my first name not my last. When Harry Potter told everyone that You-Know-Who was back, Minister Fudge was determined to dispel his words as lies. I knew it had to be true though because the Harry Potter I had met had been the most honest fellow I knew. I'm glad you befriended him Ron, even if it put the family in more danger. As I was saying, it was my job to agree with Fudge and it was seemingly easier to cut ties with 'traitors' than to prepare for You-Know-Who.
Tears dripped down from his eyes and he awkwardly brushed them away with his forearm. A single tear splotched onto the page and he glared at the mar of his perfect handwriting.
It wasn't easy though. It was hard, so hard. I missed being doted on by you, mum. I missed dad's proud glances. I missed getting letters from Charlie and watching Bill rebel the way I never dared to. I even missed the twin's jokes and tricks – that I always seemed to be on the wrong end of. I missed Ron's loud obsession with the Chudley Cannons – no one at the ministry gives me weekly updates. Ginny, I'm so sorry. I was supposed to be your protective older brother and I left you. I know there are plenty of older Weasley brothers but I should have been there.
At this point, Percy's shoulders were shaking gently with silent tears. Quite a few had fallen onto the parchment but he was determined to continue.
It wasn't until after I visited with Minister Scrimegeour that I wanted to tell you. Everything had changed – the ministry had accepted You-Know-Who's return and I hoped you could accept me as well. Mum, you were so happy that I almost cried into your embrace. Harry was there though, and everyone else assumed he was the reason for our visit. Of course, that was the only reason the minister was there but I merely wanted to see my family. But every angry, freckled face made my pride rise up and kept me from begging for forgiveness, kept me from asking to be let back home.
Sighing, the red-head straightened his shoulders and wiped the angry tears from his eyes.
So I didn't apologize and the minister took me away. I haven't been doing my job well, I don't remember the last time I slept or felt hungry. With the threat of You-Know-Who and death at any moment in time I have become a horrible mess and I just miss my family. Please, please forgive me.
Percy Weasley
Normally the young secretary would have spelled the ministry seal under his name but instead he placed a shimmering version of the Weasley family crest. With that done, Percy Weasley sealed his letter and sent it to the burrow. Three weeks later, he joined his family in the final battle of Hogwarts.