The sweltering summer heat had been constant the couple weeks or so of the holidays. I enjoyed this greatly; I was more of a summer person than anything. I had spent most of my time with Fred and George, contemplating practical jokes and keeping an eye on a new concoction for their joke shop dreams. They seemed to be quite happy to have a third wheel in their endeavors; "The more minds the better", Fred had stated. If not in their room, plotting and planning, I was outside soaking in the rays with a game of Quidditch here and there. Ginny had been somewhat frigid towards me since learning about Harry and I; she had refused to speak to me or even glance in my direction. I felt horrible that she was upset with me; I had completely forgotten her infatuation with him. But what was I suppose to do? I had to be honest; I had never thought of Harry as much more than a friend. Sure, his eyes captivated me in a way I couldn't even dream of putting into words and he was very good looking to top it all off; his untidy hair gave him a rugged look; I liked that. His modesty was something I admired greatly, along with his undying loyalty and bravery. To me, there was no one braver. And what made it the best of all was he was one of my dearest friends. I guess this lack of thinking of him as much more, and never even dreaming of him thinking of me that way, is why I would have never even considered the reasoning for his anger the previous year having anything to do with Wood snogging me. Harry had been keen to admit his glee that Oliver was leaving, seeing as how last year had been his seventh and final year at Hogwarts. I hadn't found this surprising in the least, yet George found this hilarious and Fred seemed rather quiet on the subject, saying he had no opinion. Harry had written me every chance he got; being locked up at the Dursley's made it impossible to talk as often as we wanted to.

I had received his plea for food when he learnt that his aunt was putting his hefty Uncle and cousin on a diet; Mrs. Weasley and I had spent a whole day cooking an assortment of treats and mailed them to him. When his birthday came around we had another baking spree. On top of the gifts we sent, me sending him a copy of Seekers Throughout The Centuries, I insisted I make a cake of my own to send along with the enormous one Mrs. Weasley had planned on preparing, so he had plenty of sweets. This overjoyed Harry, receiving the largest thank you; literally it was a piece of parchment covered in nothing but the large words "THANK YOU!!" Unlike Harry, I was lucky to still have someone that understood me around. Just like Harry, Fred was in tune with everything about me. Though, in my opinion, Fred knew me a bit better than Harry. This was only due to the long stint of Harry and me not talking. Fred had comforted me and been my shoulder to cry on during that time; he was, after all, my best friend in the world. Fred could tell if I was upset even if I was convincing myself I wasn't. "Spill it Bri," he would say. I loved that. However, when I didn't want to talk about things, it annoyed me greatly that I couldn't slip a single lie past Fred; even the tiniest white lie. He knew I was going to lie even before I opened my mouth anymore. He said he could tell it by my eyes and the way I would slightly crinkle my nose. I didn't even know I did this; I tried to perfect this flaw, but he could even tell when I was trying to cover these signs up.

I yawned and stretched as the bright summer sunshine streamed into my room, illuminating it.
I could smell the aroma of breakfast lingering in from outside my closed door as my stomach gave a rumble of hunger; I decided at once to abide its calls and get up. I rolled out of bed and walked across my small room and to my closet; glancing out the window to see another lovely summer day as I did. I opened it up and picked out one of the sundresses I had asked Mrs. Weasley to make for me my first day home and changed into it. Home, I thought; that still sounded so funny to me.
I sat down on my bed, make up bag dumped out in front of me and began to get ready for the day.
After a short time, I made my way out of my room and down the steps. I always held my breath as I traveled along them; I deemed them unsafe from my first time upon them, though I knew they had to be held up by magic. There was no other way possible for these to still be intact.

"Good morning," Mrs. Weasley chimed as I entered the kitchen, "That dress turned out well, it looks good on you."

"Mornin," I said brightly, walking over to her as she whipped her wand casually and the assortment of food levitated and made its way to the table.

I kissed her cheek, "Thank you for making it for me."

"You're welcome, darling." She said hugging me.

"Oi," George said as I took a seat beside him.

"Mornin' loser," I said, without looking at him. I grabbed the pitcher of pumpkin juice and began to pour me a glass.

He scoffed, throwing his hand over his heart, "Ouch that hurt!"

A smile cracked across my face, "I say it with love."

"Now, that makes everything better." He replied sarcastically, passing me the bowl of eggs.

"What's on the agenda today?" he asked.

I shrugged, "I dunno. Where's Fred?" I glanced at his vacant seat next to George.

"Still asleep, when I came down," He mumbled, "Was up all night, annoyed the hell outta me."

I tilted my head curiously, crinkling my forehead as Mr. Weasley walked into the kitchen.

"Good morning, Weasleys!" he said merrily, kissing Mrs. Weasley on her cheek and taking his seat.

I smiled at him and said, "Good morning."

"Morning, Briley," he said with a smile, "Well, I've got good news."

He turned and looked at everyone along the table now, "I was informed late last night that I have acquired the tickets for this Monday's match for Ireland verses Bulgaria."

"YESSSSSSS!!!!" George and Ron bellowed.

"Yay!" I squealed and clapped my hands.

Ginny smiled broadly until she caught my eye and turned sour once more.

"I suspect we'll need to contact Harry's Muggle relatives and pretend to ask permission to come get him," he said with a nod and a great wide smile at the pleasure he brought to all of us, "Molly, will you take care of that today?"

I chuckled at the fact he said "pretend to ask permission."

"Yes, dear," she said with a nod, "Briley, would you care to assist me? I do not know how Muggle mail works."

"Of course," I said, smiling at her.

"Speaking of mail," Mr. Weasley said, nodding to the window, "It's here."

I looked over in the direction he stared at. Four specs could be seen flying towards the Burrow, one with a rather large load. The birds grew larger and larger until they became quite visible, even in the blinding sunlight. One, white and fluffy, was no doubt, Hedwig. My heart jumped with joy knowing Harry had managed to slip another letter out to me; I had eagerly been waiting four days now. Another I recognized was Errol, the Wealey's old and ancient owl. The others, I did not know who they belonged to as they swooped in the open window; the one with the large package having quite some difficulty. He had tried to follow the others in, but the package being too long caught each side of the window and he shot forward into the kitchen, the twine holding the package to him snapping and leaving the package behind as it clunked to the ground.

"Crickey," I shook my head as Hedwig hooted merrily as she landed in front of me, "Hello, Hedwig."

George laughed and stood up to retrieve the package as Errol clumsily landed on his side in front of Mrs. Wealsey, not even bothering to get up.

The owl that had lost his package, landed beside me also, carrying a letter. I finished untying my letter from Harry and looked at the bird curiously. He was a large tawny owl; he fluffed his feathers and hooted superiorly. I looked at the letter before reaching for it; my name scribbled in my father's handwriting across it. Another leap of joy filled me.

"Wonder what this is..." George said, looking at the package as he carried it over.

The fourth and final owl had landed in George's seat; he noticed as he approached, his eyes widening.

"What have you got, George?" Mrs. Weasley asked curiously.

"Um," he stammered.

"It's for me as well," I blurted. He gave me a quick glance of relief, obviously not wanting to hear his mother's yells of their endeavors to produce a joke shop.

"You're a popular little bird today," she said, spooning a bit of jam onto her toast.

I chuckled as I untied the letter from the fourth owl, George handing it a treat and sent it on its way.

"Well, open it." George chimed.

"Yeah, get one with it," Ron said through his usual mouthful of food.

I grabbed one end of the package as George did the other and began to rip off the wrappings. George and I gasped in delight. There were numerous things within the parcel, but the one that caught our eye was the largest, a Firebolt.

"Goodness!" Mrs. Weasley exclaimed as she saw the contents.

"Let me touch it!" George shot quickly.

"Touch it," I said hastily, grabbing and ogling it a moment before handing it to him and looking about the rest of the items. There was an assortment of sweets, a book, Firebolts: The Broom of the Century by Clemintine Dagda, a broomstick servicing kit and a rather large wooden jewelry box, beautifully decorated with pearls and citrines with my name carved in cursive on the lid. I picked it up as even Ginny turned to notice it.

I examined it for a moment before I opened it. Within the box was a necklace, a tiny bracelet, a note and a photograph. I decided to save the best for last and started with the necklace; it was a single thin strand of white gold. Hung upon the small chain was a small crystal ball; upon examining it further, I noticed within it contained a tiny green four leaf clover. I smiled, knowing this had to do something with my mom. Next I picked up the bracelet; it was an assortment of colorful gems, linked by the same white gold as the necklace. It was so tiny it looked as if it belonged on a baby doll.

Picking up the note, I opened it to see my mother's handwriting.

To my beautiful daughter,

I fear I won't be around to give you these things when I desired to. I hope you enjoy the necklace; I'm sure it will go with your complexion beautifully. My mother gave it to me on my 16th birthday. And your baby bracelet; I had it made for you months before your birth.
I hope you can forgive me for not being strong enough to keep going; my heart and mind are heavy with despair and self-blame. Just know this, my darling. I love you with all my heart.

Love,
Mum

I looked up from the note; Mrs. Weasley quickly looking away. I fought back the tears, tracing my finger over the words I love you with all my heart before moving along. This letter was my proof to what I had thought since speaking to Lupin by the forest that day; my mother died of a broken and grief-stricken heart. I sighed heavily, picking up the photograph next.

There was my mother, her face was tired looking and weary yet donning the largest smile upon it. In her arms was a small baby with a few brown curls atop its head. It poked its arm up out of its blanket, revealing the same bracelet within my jewelry box. I smiled brightly as I watched my mother wave to me. She was holding me. I flipped the picture over and read: Briley Ireland Black, one day old.

"Are you ok?" George asked quietly, putting his hand on my shoulder.

I turned to him and nodded, handing him the photograph as I reached for the letter from my father. He smiled as he looked at it and chuckled, "Same curls."

"About time you got up!" Mrs. Weasley snapped. George and I looked up as Fred stalked into the kitchen, yawning and running his hand over his hair.

"Yeah, morning to you too, Mum," he said sleepily.

He sat down next to George quietly and began pouring himself a glass of pumpkin juice; George and I sat staring at him blankly for a moment before he moved suddenly, sloshing juice everywhere as Mrs. Weasley yelped in rage. His head snapped over towards us, eyes fixated on the broom, "Is that…"

"A Firebolt," George and I said together in a dreamy tone.

Fred continued to ignore Mrs. Weasley's enraged barking, whipping her wand out to tidy his mess, as he snatched it out of George's hand and began examining it thoroughly.

"I call first go after you, Bri." He said not looking up from it, running his hand over the handle.

"What?" George snapped, "You laze around all morning and you think you can just come down and call shots! No good sir, that's not how this works. You see, I got up, came downstairs to have breakfast at a normal time, retrieved the package after the bird collapsed... see you knew nothing of this poor birds mishap because you were asleep, AND helped Bri unwrap it."

"Helped her unwrap it?" Fred asked blankly and sarcastically, "Wow that makes you the what? The best assistant unwrapper in the world?"

George narrowed his eyes at his twin, clenching his jaw, and then turned to me, "Bri, it's your broom. Your call. Who gets a go first?"

I sat there for a moment and thought before I spoke, "Ginny."

"WHAT??!" the twins' shouted in unison.

Ginny, finally cracking a smile in my direction laughed at them and stuck out her tongue.

George scoffed, picking up his fork and jabbing his eggs, "Just wait and see if I help you unwrap anything else."

I stuck out my bottom lip at him, "Oh no! How on earth will I manage without my assistant unwrapper! I guess my Christmas presents will remain wrapped forever."

George gave a forced fake laugh as I chuckled and opened my letter from my father; Ron deciding it was best to let Fred in on the World Cup news. I began to read the letter as I heard his shouts of joy.

Briley,

I hope you enjoy your gifts. I know they do not make up for anything but I saw how you disliked your Comet when I would watch the matches from the forest and knew you would appreciate a proper broom. As for your other gifts, I know you'll be more interested in the jewelry box. I contacted Dumbledore shortly after reaching my destination and asked him to enter my vault at Gringott's to get the money to purchase your Firebolt. He notified me of the box he noticed within. I knew at once your mother had placed it there with intent of you getting it as soon as possible; I then asked him to retrieve it as well. I had a good idea what was within, knowing your mother so well. I hope these things are a constant reminder of your mother's love for you. I know she would be so proud of you.
Buckbeak is doing fine; he's quite enjoying the fresh air out here. I hope you are doing well and enjoying your summer holidays.
Enjoy the World Cup and be safe.

All my love,
Sirius

P.S. I realized you have no owl, so I acquired this one and wish for you to keep him. He's quite pleasant. He'll do you well.

I sat it down and reached for the treats and smiled at the bird, handing it to him. He hooted in thanks and took the treat before he swooped up from the table and landed upon the window sill and fluffed his feathers.

"Loves the sun, like you," Fred noted, sitting the Firebolt down beside him.

"Dad gave him to me," I replied, watching him on the sill, eating his treat merrily as he soaked in the summer suns' rays, "I think I'll call him Declan."

"Declan?" Ron said, crinkling his nose, "That sounds like rubbish."

I stuck my tongue out at him and snapped, "Better than Pigwidgeon!"

"Well family, I must be going," Mr. Weasley said, clearing his throat and getting up.

After we all said our farewells and he Apparted with a loud pop; Percy's presence was missed due to the fact he was already at the Ministry. Last but not least, I picked up the letter from Harry and opened it. I saw Ginny, out of the corner of my eye, cut me a look. Clearly, my attempt to make peace was only step one.

Briley,

I hope you're having a good holiday. As usual, the Dursley's have me locked up, nothing new there. I wish I could be with you, I miss you. I can't wait to come to the Burrow. Have you heard any news about the World Cup? Thanks again for the sweets; I'm eating some now after our "healthy breakfast of a grapefruit".
Fred and George treating you well? Knowing you, you're up to no good right along with them. Ron told me about the prank you pulled on him last week; he's still mad. (Good one!) Send everyone my best and I can't wait to see you again.

With love,
Harry

I folded the note back and stuffed it into my pocket of my sundress and began to gather my things.

Fred swallowed his gulp of juice and stood, handing the Firebolt across the table to Ron so he and Ginny could take a look, "I'll help you."

I scooped up my jewelry box and some of the sweets as he grabbed the book and a handful of the sweets and followed me toward the stairs. I didn't understand why he thought I needed help; there wasn't that much stuff to where I needed help.

We entered my illuminated room, the rays of sun bouncing off the walls. I walked over to my dresser and sat down the jewelry box and dumped the sweets upon it; Fred following and sitting down his load as well. He looked over at me and smiled gingerly; I couldn't help but smile back when he did.

"You best change," he said nodding to my dress, "That wouldn't be good for flying."

I glanced down at it for a moment and shrugged, "I guess you're right."

He chuckled, crossing the room and flopped down on my bed, staring up at the ceiling.

"What are you doing?" I asked.

He glanced at me with a look as if I had asked the silliest question, "Waiting for you to get ready. I wanna ride that Firebolt!"

I put my hands on my hips, "You have to get out."

He snapped his head to the ceiling once more and covered his eyes quickly, "Not looking."

I sighed and rolled my eyes as I opened the closet door and pulled out a t-shirt, turning to my dresser and retrieving a pair of shorts and began changing. Once I was done, I walked over to the bed and smacked his leg, "Let's go."

He peeked through his fingers and smiled before jumping up from the bed and following me out of the room.

I hurriedly helped Mrs. Weasley prepare her letter to the Dursley's, Fred right beside me. I couldn't help but laugh when I saw the envelope she had already prepared for the delivery. It was covered, every inch of it, in stamps.

"Enough?" she asked, raising her eyebrows at me.

"I think about seventy-five too many," I replied.

"Oh," she said with a shrug, "At least it'll get there."

We spent the whole afternoon outside in the sun testing out the Firebolt. Ron had been the only one who had gotten a go on Harry's, so naturally I argued with him, insisting he go last. After twenty minutes of shouting with him, he finally caved; mainly because Fred and George had picked him up and held him down on the ground despite his shouts of rage, refusing to let him up until he gave in or they would shove a Puking Pastie down his throat. I thanked them as I passed the broom to Ginny, who took it without a smile or anything, and took off. None of us had even gone in for lunch when Mrs. Weasley shouted from the door that it was ready; we didn't want to stop playing. Since we had an odd number, we played two-on-two, making one person the referee for each match. This had gone well until Ginny was the ref as the sun began to sink in the horizon and kept calling free shots for George and Ron for fouls against me. I knew she was doing this to upset me, but I intended on it not working. Fred on the other hand was livid.

"You call that fair?!" he shouted, touching ground and stalking over to Ginny.

"Yes," she replied solemnly.

"That is not!" he screamed, "Briley didn't knock the Quaffle from Ron, he bloody dropped it, the butterfingered git!"

"Hey!" Ron bellowed as he made his way to the ground.

Fred turned to look at him as I walked over to his side, "No offense."

"He's just upset," I told Ron.

"Damn right I am!" he yelled, rounding on Ginny once more, "You're just pissed off Briley is dating Harry. GROW UP! You haven't called a single foul on anyone else this whole match! You think we're stupid and don't see that?!"

Ginny clenched her jaw at the mention of Harry and I.

"Fred, just drop it. It's just a game," I said touching his shoulder.

"Let him keep yelling!" she shouted at me, and looked Fred in the eyes and took a step closer, "Don't think I haven't heard what you've said as well!"

Fred's eye narrowed at her as he too, clenched his jaw, "Piss off."

With that, he turned and stalked to the house, tossing his broom to the side as he made his way up the stairs and out of view.

George walked to my side and looked at Ginny, who had now turned back to me and was giving me a look of utter hatred, "You were being bias."

"I was the ref, I can be what I want," she chimed, not taking her eyes off me.

George rolled his eyes and took my arm, "Let's go."

I grabbed Fred's broom as we trotted up the stairs. The aroma of supper filled our senses as we entered the kitchen. Mrs. Weasley turned at once when we walked in, Ginny pushing past me and stalking off towards the stairs.

"What in the name of Merlin is wrong with those two?" she snapped.

"Long story," George said rolling his eyes.

"Hermione will be here soon. You're father has gone to retrieve her from her Portkey then he'll be on his way; supper will be ready in just a few minutes, best get washed up," she instructed us.

I nodded as we exited the kitchen.

"Ignore those two," George said as we walked up the stairs.

"You really think Ginny can get under my skin?" I asked.

He raised his eyebrows, "Actually, no. That was silly of me to say."

"Exactly," I replied, entering my room and leaving him in the hallway.

I sat Fred's broom down on my bed. I propped my Firebolt up in the corner, giving it a gleeful smile before grabbing my discarded sundress from earlier and changing hastily back into it. On my way back out of my room I snatched up Fred's broom and walked to his door. I knocked; no answer. I guess George had been quicker than me.

"Fred?" I asked, hesitating for a moment before I turned the doorknob and entered.

I saw him lying upon his bed, pillow over his face. I sighed and propped the broom up by the doorway and walked over. I gently sat down on the edge of the bed. I placed my hand on top of his that lie on the pillow covering his face.

"Fred?" I repeated.

I took my hand off his as he moved the pillow from his face, "Yeah?"

I gave him a feeble smile, "I brought your broom in."

He glanced to the doorway, noting it and nodded, "Thanks."
He slapped the pillow back over his face and sighed.

"It's just a game, silly." I said, "No need to get worked up about it."

"I'm pissed at Ginny, not the game," he mumbled through his pillow.

"Oh," I replied, "Don't let her get to you. She's just mad."

"She's gonna be mad, alright." He said sternly, removing the pillow once more.

I smiled at him, "What? Planning revenge already?"

"It's already planned," he said casually.

I chuckled, shaking my head as I stood up and extended my arm, "C'mon, let's go."

"Fine," he exasperated and took my hand as I jerked him up.

We walked down the unsafe stairs, my breath held as usual and into the kitchen. Ginny made sure to sit on the opposite side of the table as far away as possible from Fred and I.

"Whatever you're problem is Ginerva, you best drop it!" Mrs. Weasley shouted as she sat down beside her.

She silently scoffed and rolled her eyes when her mother turned to George, "That goes for you too."

He wore a look of shock, "Crickey, woman! It's him! Not me! I can't believe you call yourself our mother!"

She gave a frustrated sigh, "Sorry George. Then, you! You drop it."

Fred answered without look up from pouring a glass of pumpkin juice and handing it to me, "Already dropped."

"See, Ginny! Even your brother has dropped whatever it is!" she snapped at Ginny.

"Hey! What's that suppose to mean!" Fred shouted.

"Nothing dear," she replied casually as a loud pop could be heard from outside the house. Footsteps up the stairs could be heard just before the door opened, revealing Mr. Weasley, Percy and a shaken looking Hermione.

"Hello Wealsey's," he said with a smile.

"Goodness, what's a matter Hermione. You're as white as a sheet!" Mrs. Weasley said at once and jumped up to her.

"Just a bit shaken," Mr. Weasley replied, "First Portkey and Appartation at once. Would do it to anyone."

"Here here," Mrs. Weasley said taking her things, "Sit down, have some supper."

She whipped her wand and Hermione's things disappeared as she sat back down. Hermione took the vacant seat next to Ron, who gave her a smile. Percy walked superiorly to his seat and sat down. The twins' scowled at him; he took no notice. I never dreamed it possible to dislike a Weasley but he had proved me wrong. He was the most uptight and snobby person I had ever met; how he belonged to this family was beyond me. I had never gotten to meet Charlie and Bill yet, the oldest of the Weasley's, but I was sure I would like them.

"Hey Hermione," I said, "I take it Apparation and Portkey's are no good?"

She shook her head, "I prefer the Floo Network."

I laughed and stabbed my chicken, shoving the bite into my mouth.

After supper I hurried up the stairs (breath held) and grabbed the quilted blanket hanging on my chair in the corner and made my way back into the hall and knocked on the twins' bedroom door.

"GO AWAY GINNY!" Fred bellowed.

"It's not Ginny," I replied.

"Oh, come in," he called.

I opened the door and entered; the twins' in their usual spot in the corner over the cauldron that was emitting a particularly nasty odor, heads together.

"Ready Fred?" I asked.

"I figured you'd be calling Harry," he snapped, not looking up.

"No," I replied shortly.

He looked up and gave a small smile, "Yeah."

He got up and crossed the room over to me.

"Be back," he said to George who nodded, not looking up from the cauldron as he stirred.

We walked out and closed the door, making our way down the stairs. It had been our "tradition", as we deemed it, after the first day of holidays to lie in the backyard and gaze at the stars while we just talked. I enjoyed this; it was honestly the highlight of my day, as silly as it sounded.

We walked across the backyard to our usual spot. Fred flicked the blanket and laid it down on the ground.

"My lady," he said with a bow.

I laughed and sat down on it as he followed. Laying down, I peered up at the stars. He stayed sitting up for a moment and looked over at me.

"You alright?" he asked, touching my hand.

"Yeah," I answered, "I should be asking you that with your blow-out on Ginny today."

Even in the dark I could tell he rolled his eyes, "We'll not be talking about that this evening."

"Why not?" I asked.

He laid down on the blanket, looking upwards before he replied, "We just won't. I saw your things from your Dad, are you sure you're ok? George told me about…"

"You can mention it, the picture and the note," I told him.

"He only mentioned the picture," he said with a shrug.

"Oh, well there was a note from my mum too," I said, "Said she knew she wouldn't be around to give me the jewelry box and everything."

It took him a moment to answer, "I'm sorry."

"Don't be," I told him, "Everything happens for a reason."

"Oh does it?" he asked.

"Yeah, I think so, don't you?" I rolled over on my side to face him.

He turned his head to look at me and shook it, "No. I mean, if it does, I'm oblivious to what the hell it's supposed to mean for me."

"What do you mean?" I asked, crinkling my forehead.

"Nothing," he sighed, looking back up at the stars.

I reached out and touched his arm, "C'mon, talk to me. You know you can tell me anything."

"I know I can," he said without looking over at me, "It's what I want to tell you, I know I shouldn't."

"I don't understand," I said, sitting up and looking down at him.

He turned his head once more towards me, "Good. It's better that way."

"What?" I was completely confused by everything he had said.

"Nothing, Bri," he repeated. He reached out his hand and touched my arm, "C'mere."

I sighed, still completely bewildered and laid back down, resting my head on his shoulder and looked back up at the dark night sky. The stars shined brightly above us as we watched them twinkle. We remained there upon the quilted blanket with nothing but the sounds of the crickets chirping and the occasional hoot from Declan; nothing was said between us, for there wasn't much to say. I still couldn't wrap my mind around what Fred had meant, I guess I wouldn't be able to until he decided to tell me… I wasn't holding my breath on this happening though.

We only entered the house when Mrs. Weasley called from the door, telling us it was getting late. We fetched the blanket from the ground and made our way in.

Once atop the magically held up stairs, Fred kissed my forehead and said goodnight, disappearing into his room; George shouting, "It's about time!"

I shook my head and entered my room, taking my wand out and muttering, "Lumos", emitting light from its tip so I could find my way to my night stand and light the candle upon it. I muttered "Nox" once the candle was in full flame. A faint tapping noise could be heard, causing me to jump slightly. I glanced up to the window to see Declan sitting upon the sill; I smiled and opened it.

"You're a bright bird," I told him as he swooped in and perched himself on top of my dresser mirror.

I got up after shutting the window back and made my way to my desk to write my replies to my father and Harry before bed. I pulled out two pieces of parchment and the bottle of ink and my favorite quill.

On the first I began writing.

Dad,
Thank you so much for all the gifts! I loved them! Fred, George, Ginny and me spent the whole afternoon outside testing out the Firebolt; it's wicked fast! I can't wait to use it in the Qudditch games at Hogwarts… that is if I make the team again next year.
I especially loved the jewelry box. I'm very glad Professor Dumbledore stumbled upon it. I wish I could have gotten to know her.
I decided to name the owl you gave me (Thank you!) Declan. Ron says it's a rubbish name, but it's better than what he came up with! Pigwidgeon! He calls him 'Pig', the oddest name for such a tiny bird. But Declan is brilliant! He knew exactly where my room was and he loves the sun, just like me, Fred says.
Mr. Weasley just told us today he got tickets for the Ireland and Bulgaria match this Monday. I can't wait! My first Quidditch World Cup!
I hope this letter finds you and Buckbeak doing well. I miss you and I love you. Write back as soon as you can.

Love,
Briley

P.S. Sign the letters Dad, not Sirius.

I folded the letter and pushed it aside and began writing my reply to Harry now.

Harry,
I'm glad you're still enjoying your sweets! A grapefruit for breakfast! BLAH! That is no good at all! I bet Dudley is going crazy! He'll be raiding the neighbors' cupboards before long; wait and see!
You'll never guess what Dad got me! He sent a huge package today with a Firebolt (Yay!), a jewelry box that had a note, a photograph and a necklace and my baby bracelet from my Mum, a ton of sweets, a copy of Firebolts: The Broom of the Century, a broom servicing kit AND I get to keep the owl! He's gorgeous; I named him Declan. Ron told me the name sounded like rubbish, but he's one to talk, huh?
We spent the whole afternoon playing two-on-two (one of us being the ref since we have an odd number and all). Fred got really mad and yelled at Ginny because she kept calling fouls on me and no one else. She's really cross with me; now she and Fred aren't talking.
I'm sure you'll be receiving good news soon! Mrs. Weasley has sent a letter to the Dursley's asking for you to come… Mr. Weasley told us this morning he got tickets for this Monday's match! Ireland vs. Bulgaria!
Can't wait to see you! Start packing your trunk! You're Burrow-bound in just a matter of time!

Love,
Briley

I folded this note as well, jotting their names on the envelopes and turned to Declan, still perched upon my dresser mirror. He ruffled his feathers and gave a hoot of excitement as he fluttered down to my desk.

"Can you take these to Dad and Harry?" I asked him.

He hooted and nibbled at my finger. I smiled at him and reached for a piece of twine to tie the letters to his leg with. After I finished tying them to him, I gave him a treat and said farewell to him. He soared out of the window; I walked over to it as he swooped out. I watched him disappear into the night sky. I yawned, closing the window.

As I changed into my night clothes, I caught sight of the jewelry box. Once I was done, I walked over and opened it, extracting the photograph. I made my way to my bed and sat down; placing the picture next to the one of my Mum and Dad Lupin had given me. I smiled as I watched them wave happily at me.

"Goodnight," I said with a yawn and blew out my candle.