Chapter 28: Apologies
Neville was frozen in a state of absolute bliss, the corridors no longer appeared to be closing in on them and in fact, he now felt strangely at ease- as though every ounce of stress, every nagging worry and any thoughts of fear or failure he had ever experienced in his short lived life had simply evaporated. The feeling was sensational, he couldn't quite muster the right words to describe it, but he felt free- as though he had entered another realm of life.
"Oh dear..." began Nelie cruelly, "it seems as though you've lost your will to fight..."
Out of nowhere his ultimate feeling of nirvana slipped away and the weightlessness subsided as he now found he wanted to shout every obscenity in the book at her but his jaw was clenched shut, he had lost control of every single bodily function. He was under her complete control.
"This should be fun..." she muttered, as she began to walk around him in circles observing him.
"Oh the possibilities," she continued darkly, "a quick slit to that old bag Dumbledore's throat...or even better! Bashing Harry Potter's head to a bloody pulp...all at the hand of Neville Longbottom, presumed to be so innocent and liked by all...but what no one seemed to know was that he had a dark side..."
"NO!" his mind shouted.
Neville could feel himself falling back into the effects of the curse- a serene, peaceful state of mind but he couldn't allow it, he couldn't allow for her to control him.
Neville's head was spinning and his mind was screaming but he could only stand by helplessly and watch as Nelie contemplated what his fate would be.
"I'll finally get the praise I deserve," she trailed off, "I've lived my whole life in the shadows of my father...but now it is I who have captured Neville Longbottom...it is I who will retrieve the key and present it to our Dark Lord...isn't it wonderful? It seems that even twisted fairy tales can have their happy endings..."
Her eyes burned through him menacingly as she closed in on him.
"Now...what to do with you first?"
Simply standing frozen, having no idea what she was about to do to him or force him to do was more torturous than anything else she could do to him physically- after all, he had already endured the cruciatus curse during his fifth year and knew what to expect.
Neville tried to focus his mind on anything other than what was happening, he couldn't allow for his mind to become locked as his body had- he had to try and fight this.
"I must admit...your efforts during the duration of this journey have been valiant and admirable...but you will not prosper, unless you join us..."
Neville focused so hard that tears began to spill out of his open eyes- he decided to focus on the failures he had endured during his life and suddenly, a rush of awful memories flooded his mind- replaying at lightning speed and what followed where his triumphs, until finally he saw Ginny's smiling face and that was what gave him the strength to fight.
He was making progress as he had now regained the ability to blink, he squeezed his eyes shut and carefully began to will away Nelie's curse.
When he opened his eyes Nelie had been staring at him in horror and he knew he mustn't miss this window of opportunity- he knew he could overpower her.
"GLACIO CORPUS!" he bellowed.
A jet of blinding white light emitted from his wand and she jumped out of the way just in time.
"You're going to have to try harder than that to defeat me!"
"TORPEO!"
Once again she dodged the attack and fired one back at him which he easily discarded.
"Ah- I see you've gotten your bark back...but can you bite?" hissed Nelie with laughter.
"SOMNUS PROFUNDUS!"
Nelie was just simply too quick and continually dodged all of his attempted attacks, although he was right on her heel- just as quickly dodging her counter attacks.
He estimated that they had been dueling for at least twenty minutes. He was careful in his selection of attacks as he didn't want to harm her in any way but rather incapacitate her. No matter if she was evil she was still his family.
He realized that his best advantage was to distract her somehow and an idea came to him immediately- he realized how incredibly stupid this would be and if he were not to succeed the entire wizarding world would be shamed by him and it would simply be another notch of failure to add to his belt- but he was tired of failing- failure was no longer an option.
"If this is what you want then take it! Just leave and never come back!" And with that said, Neville pulled the key from his pocket and threw it across the corridor- Nelie looked up and watched as the key was about to fall into her ready hands.
"NEVILLE NO!"
He turned and saw Francis running toward them.
"Dad! Neville's gone insane! He's trying to kill me!"
Neville whipped back around toward Nelie and pointed his wand.
"TERGIVERSATIO ICTUS!" he bellowed, and watched as the spell hit her unsuspecting body with such force that she flew back and connected to the opposite stone wall with a sickening thud and was immediately knocked out cold.
Neville calmly walked over to where the key had landed, picked it up and placed it back in his pocket as Francis ran past him and knelt down next to his daughter's unconscious body.
"Neville what have you done!" shouted Francis.
"It's not what it looks like!" began Neville, "S-she threatened me! She put me under the imperius curse and tried to get me to give her the key! I had to stop her!"
"What would Cornelia want with the key?"
"I don't know!" shouted Neville. "But she's had her eye on it since we went out looking for it!"
"I should have known..." mumbled Francis as his eyes scoped over Neville darkly, "I should have known that letting them come here was a bad idea..."
"What are you talking about?" screamed Neville.
"Neville...you are in grave danger."
"Really? YOU THINK?" he screamed, his words dripping with sarcasm.
"You need to leave Hogwarts...now- they know you are here."
"WHO KNOWS I'M HERE?"
Neville watched as Francis scooped up his daughter and draped her over his shoulder.
"SHE'S EVIL! SHE'S NOT ON MY SIDE...DON'T YOU SEE THAT? ARE YOU EVEN ON MY SIDE?"
"Cornelia is not evil, Neville..."
"YOU DIDN'T SEE WHAT JUST HAPPENED! I DON'T KNOW WHO I CAN TRUST ANYMORE!"
"Neville...calm down-"
"NO! YOU GO THROUGH WHAT I'VE GONE THROUGH THIS YEAR AND TRY CALMING THE FUCK DOWN! I WANT TO KNOW WHAT IS GOING ON!"
"I am going to take Cornelia to the hospital wing...you need to go pack a bag and leave immediately."
"Tell me, where exactly am I supposed to go?" he snapped.
"The burrow- there is an anti-location charm surrounding it- you won't be able to be traced there- Charlie will be out past the gates waiting for you. Now go- hurry!"
Neville bolted to the dorm and began aimlessly throwing things into his knapsack. He ran out past the astronomy tower to the gates where sure enough Charlie was waiting for him.
"'Lo Neville- you ready?" greeted Charlie.
They apparated and a moment later Neville found himself standing in front of Ginny's home where he would soon be face to face with her parents and this was not how he'd imagined he would be introduced to them.
"You'll be safe here Neville," Charlie assured him. "At least until we get everything sorted out...somehow it has been discovered by the Death Eaters that you have the key...which means that Voldemort knows. They are going to be on the attack until they find you."
Neville's heart began to pound furiously against his rib cage.
"C'mon," beckoned Charlie, leading the younger boy up the walk. "Mum and dad are inside waiting for you."
As they walked Neville stared up in awe at the place- it looked old and rickety, as though a single gust of wind could knock it all down. The burrow was tall but very narrow and Neville had never seen anything like this before in his life and was oddly fascinated at how a place that seemed so small and cramped could have possibly housed nine people at one time.
Charlie observed the boy and gave a sheepish grin.
"As old and unsightly looking as the burrow may be to strangers it's held up quite nicely..."
"I think it's really cool," replied Neville, still staring up. He counted multiple chimney's sprouting from the top.
"Glad you think so," answered Charlie with a grin as he opened the door to let Neville inside.
The moment Neville stepped inside he heard the scuffling of feet and a woman who he presumed was Ginny's mother hurried over to him and enveloped him in a massive hug.
When she finally released him she stepped back to observe him, with a hand cupped against his cheek she smiled kindly.
"Neville! Welcome to the burrow- Arthur and I are so happy to have you as our guest. We've been anxious to meet you."
Mrs. Weasley was short and pleasantly plump. She had a round, motherly face and the same bright red hair as the rest of the Weasley's but her eyes were the same beautiful shade as Ginny's.
"It's very nice to meet you Mrs. Weasley."
"Oh please, call me Molly. Arthur is out at the moment but he should be returning soon enough..."
Neville followed Molly's gaze to a clock that rather than numbers had the status of every member of the Weasley family. Arthur's hand was pointing at work, Molly and Charlie's at home, Ron and Ginny's at school, Fred, George, Percy and Bill's were all pointed at traveling.
"Hello Mother," greeted Charlie.
"Oh Charlie! How are you darling?"
"Just fine...working as usual."
Molly swept her second eldest son up in her arms- even though she only came up just below his chest- and planted kisses all over his face.
"Oh mum," replied Charlie with a chuckle. "I hope you enjoy your stay here Neville, the burrow holds so many wonderful memories and is always open for more. Any who I'm off- love you mum."
"I love you too dear."
Molly gave her son one last squeeze and kiss and let him go.
"Be careful Charlie- and don't forget to check in!"
Charlie winked and with a soft pop was gone.
"How have you been dear? I can't imagine you are doing too well with everything that has been going on."
"I'm managing..." replied Neville quietly with a small grin.
Her eyes sparkled and she gave him another small squeeze.
"Such a handsome face," she began, "you look so much like your mother."
"Thanks," he mumbled shyly.
"You will be safe here with us and you are welcome anytime dear."
"Thank you Mrs. Weasley…"
Neville had never felt so warmly accepted by anyone in his entire life. He had only just met Mrs. Weasley and he had already taken an immediate liking to her.
She led Neville into the kitchen and sat down across from him.
"So Ginny tells Arthur and I that you two are dating?"
Neville blushed and began to stammer.
"Errr...well- y-you see...uhh..."
"Oh it's alright dear…no need to be shy around me. I'm not here to question your relationship with my daughter. I've heard nothing but good things about you. I know you're a good boy."
Neville gave her a tiny smile.
"Ginny had been talking about you so much Arthur and I finally decided well it's about time we meet this Neville and here you are."
"Thank you for letting me stay here."
"Oh it's our pleasure dear. I only wish we had a bigger house, it sometimes gets crowded…"
"I think your house is lovely," replied Neville.
And he really meant it. The burrow- while undoubtedly small, was a very warm and happy home. There were guests constantly coming and going and with so many people in one place you always had someone talk to- most importantly though, Neville noted was that the Weasley residence was just brimming with laughter and something that he had never experienced in his own home, acceptance and unconditional love.
Neville felt at ease here, he felt safe. All it took was one look from and any doubts or feelings of insecurity melted away.
For the first time in his life Neville began to feel that maybe he was worthy enough to be loved. Neville didn't think he knew anyone who was as open and affectionate as Mrs. Weasley and the fact that she didn't plaster a fake smile on her face and stiffly stick out a hand when introduced to him like most people did made him feel happy. The sparkle in her eyes and the way they lit up when he arrived at the burrow and the way she took him into her arms as if he were one of her own, that had all been a genuine reaction.
Although Neville didn't doubt that she's heard stories about the 'Clumsy, forgetful and dim-witted Longbottom boy in Harry and Ron's year,' Mrs. Weasley didn't look at him or treat him as if he were that person.
"So from what Ginny tells me you are interested in Herbology?"
"Yes ma'am. I quite enjoy it."
"Wonderful! Maybe you can help me out with our garden- give me a few pointers," she replied with a wink.
"Of course."
Suddenly Arthur walked into the kitchen. He took his hat off and flung it into the sitting room.
"Hello dear," he replied, leaning down to kiss his wife on the cheek.
Mr. Weasley turned to Neville and stuck his hand out.
"Ah you must be Neville! Pleasure to finally meet you lad! Ginny has told us so much about you."
Neville blushed again and took Mr. Weasley's hand.
"Pleasure to meet you too Mr. Weasley."
"Arthur," he corrected kindly.
Neville nodded. Arthur Weasley was very tall with a thin build, his hair wasn't as vibrant a red as the others and was thinning on top, also he appeared more aged than his wife but he had a very friendly face.
"So where is everyone?" asked Mr. Weasley suddenly realizing that other than Mrs. Weasley and Neville the house was empty and silent.
"Well Charlie just left and Percy, Fred and George are supposed to stop by later...I just wanted to chat with Neville here and get to know him a little better- after all, he is dating our daughter."
Neville's blush deepened.
"Ginny just thinks the world of you," began Arthur taking a seat next to his wife. "She's never been happier."
"It's true," beamed Molly. "You've been doing her good. Her attitude seems to have bounced back into check and she's beginning to learn that she doesn't need to be loud and obnoxious to be noticed…but then again, being the baby of the family and the only girl I'm surprised she's not any more rambunctious."
Neville grinned.
"Oh how rude of me!" began Molly jumping out of her seat and hurrying over to the counter. "I haven't even offered you anything. Would you like anything to drink dear? Tea? Are you hungry…well of course you are!"
"Oh no…I'm fine Mrs. Weasley. Thank you though."
"Now you just make yourself at home, you hear?" replied Mrs. Weasley as she set cups in front of Neville and Mr. Weasley.
She poured them some tea and then walked back toward the cupboards and began rummaging through them.
"Did you say you were hungry dear?"
"Oh no…I'm fine- really."
"Nonsense! You probably haven't had a thing to eat all day you poor thing…you look absolutely famished."
"I uh ate before I arrived…but thank you."
"Alright just as long as you have some room for breakfast in the morning."
"Oh of course…" replied Neville forcing a smile.
'She is only going to make you fat!'
Neville pushed the voice aside but failed to push away the thought of having to actually sit down and eat with the Weasley's. There were so many of them that it would be impossible for him to get away with not eating or sneaking off somewhere afterward.
He suddenly began to feel panicky. He'd think of something.
"Are you sure you don't want something to snack on? We've got peanuts...oh! I just found a leftover piece of Charlie's birthday cake."
"No thank you."
She walked back over to the table and placed a hand gently on the back of his neck.
"Tell us more about yourself dear."
"Uh...what would you like to know?"
"What are some of your hobbies and interests?" asked Molly.
"Well as you know I really enjoy herbology...I um love to read and I joined the quidditch team this year."
"How delightful!"
Arthur cleared his throat and his eyes grew dark as he turned them on Neville.
"How was your journey?"
"It uh...went better than expected actually. I um, ended up finding the key a lot sooner than anyone would have thought, ran into a few Death Eaters along the way..."
"Charlie told us that you encountered Death Eaters...Ginny wrote us also and said that you handled them quite well, yeah?"
Neville blushed.
"My uncle taught me well."
"You remind me so much of your father," began Arthur as he placed a hand on Neville's shoulder, "brave, selfless and willing to fight for what you believe in."
"I-I'm just fulfilling my duty sir...I want to help restore the wizarding world back to where it should be, to where no one has to live in fear anymore, to where we don't have to hide and worry about our families and friends being slaughtered...I'll do whatever it takes."
Arthur and Molly smiled at the boy.
"We're very lucky to have someone like you on our side," began Arthur, "and we'd be even luckier if one day you were to join our family."
Neville's cheeks burned and he quickly looked away.
"But Arthur- he already is...he's been Ron and Harry's friend and housemate since first year."
"You know what I mean dear," answered Arthur.
"Oh right," replied Molly, her eyes twinkling.
"So how exactly did you and our Ginny get together?" asked Molly.
"Uh well...it just sort of happened," began Neville lamely. "I-I'd liked her since we attended the Yule Ball together during my fourth year..."
"Oh that's right!" squealed Molly excitedly, "I remember that she mentioned going with you...she really enjoyed herself that night."
Neville grimaced at the memory of his shy, awkward and clumsy fourteen year old self stepping on Ginny's feet all night and spilling punch on her dress at the end of the night.
"I just...I'm lucky," continued Neville, "I really care for Ginny a lot and no matter how things turn out between us I'm glad to have her in my life. She's a good person and deserves only the best."
Molly watched Neville, her face bright and beaming with joy.
Neville cleared his throat awkwardly.
"Uh would you mind if I look around?"
"Oh go right ahead my boy," chuckled Arthur, "just try not to get lost!"
Neville stood up and began to explore the residence. He started in the sitting room where he had first entered the burrow. It was small yet very cosy and eloquently decorated with fresh flowers and pictures of the family all over the walls. There was a long sofa that could probably seat four or five along with four surrounding arm chairs in front of a fireplace.
Next he ventured into one of the bedrooms nearby which he was amused to discover was Ginny's, due to the bright colors and multiple posters of famous male wizards. She had a small canopy bed with pink sheets, he sat down and wished that she could be here with him now showing him around rather than just wandering around alone.
He leaned back on her pillows which still carried her scent. He closed his eyes and wondered if she even knew that he was gone yet. He sat up and went over to the window and saw that it overlooked an orchard with dozens of tall trees surrounding the yard. He exited her room and made his way up to the second floor.
He next entered into what he believed to have once been Fred and George's room on account of the cluttered mess and multiple beakers lying around amongst concoctions of various potions, also the distinct smell of gunpowder lingered, as he had once remembered Ron mentioning was a nuisance due to all of the experiments they used to try out during all hours of the day and night.
Next he entered Percy's room- and he knew it was Percy's old room because on the door was a sign that read: Percy's room: Knock before entering. Ron along with Fred and George had always joked about Percy and his overachieving, self-serving ways and how easy he was to make fun of and his room seemed to illustrate their point. Inside it was very neat and clean with a shelf of books taking up an entire wall while the other held a variety of shiny trophies and ribbons of achievements.
On the third floor was another room which must have once belonged to either Bill or Charlie and finally at the very top of the house was Ron's room, a complete pig sty with the walls covered with Chudley Cannon posters.
Neville made his way back downstairs toward the kitchen where Arthur and Molly were quietly conversing but stopped just before entering to listen.
"That poor child," began Molly, "his eyes look so lost...we must help him Arthur."
"I know dear...Ginny has mentioned that she's worried about him."
"He's had such a hard life as it is and now it must seem as though the entire world is on his shoulders..."
"From what the kids describe though he's a tough son of a gun," began Arthur. "I mean...look at what he's already faced. He's Frank and Alice's son, he seems to have their strong mentality."
"I know," began Molly sadly, "he just looks so broken up...like our Harry he's never had any proper parental guidance...and you know how Augusta is- that woman is impossible."
"We'll do the best we can Molly but we need to give him his space. I'm sure once he feels more comfortable here he'll open up to us."
"And he's so thin," added Molly.
Neville waited a moment before entering.
He smiled and sat down across from them.
"Your house is very nice," he replied. "I hope I'm not keeping you two up."
"Oh not at all dear," began Molly gently, "we knew you would be arriving so we wanted to be sure to be awake to finally meet you."
"So then- you get first pick of which room you'd like to take," said Arthur.
"Umm I wouldn't mind taking Ron's room if that's alright."
He would have preferred to stay in Ginny's room just to feel closer to her but he figured her parents might find that weird.
"Of course dear," answered Molly. "Arthur, why don't you take Neville's things up for him?"
"Oh no- really you don't have to do that Mr. Weasley I can take them."
"Nonsense you are our guest!"
And with that Arthur grabbed Neville's things and made his way upstairs.
"Are you sure you wouldn't like something to eat before bed? I can whip you up anything you'd like."
Neville smiled. Molly was so kind and it broke his heart a little knowing that while he had a mother, he had never gotten the chance to experience what it was like really having one- to hug him, kiss his forehead, cook for him, send him off to school and greet him when he arrived home and any of the other things a good mother does for her children.
The Weasley children were a lucky bunch.
"I couldn't possibly Mrs. Weasley. I really appreciate you offering though."
Neville chatted a bit longer with Arthur and Molly when Fred, George and Percy walked in.
"Oh my boys! Hello darling!" replied Molly to each of them as she kissed all three of them on both cheeks and forehead.
"Mum!" cried George, "must you always kiss us in front of people?"
"Yeah," chimed Fred, "and why must it be three times?"
"Oh- then would you rather me slap a broom in your hand and have you sweep the chimneys?"
"Hello Mother," greeted Percy. "Father."
"Boys we have a guest," said Molly.
"Oy Neville! How's it going mate?" asked Fred.
"Fine. Yourself?"
"We're good mate. So mum what have you prepared for us this lovely evening?" asked George.
"Oh dear," began Molly. "I got so caught up in cleaning that I didn't make anything."
"But mum we're starving!" groaned Fred.
"Boys," started Arthur sternly, "your mother has been very busy so just give it a rest."
"Percy have you met Neville?" asked Molly.
Percy gave him a half smile and stuck out his hand.
"Nice to see you again Neville. How are you?" asked Percy.
"Fine, thanks."
"Mum can Fred and I start up the fire pit?"
"Oh it's rather late for that..."
"Please? We won't stay out too late..."
"Oh alright," agreed Molly. "But just make sure you boys don't make too much racket."
"Great! C'mon Neville!"
Neville got up and followed the twins outside out back past the garden.
"Incendio!"
Suddenly a large fire sparked up from a circle of stones.
The boys settled on the grass and immediately the questions began to fly.
"So how's our Ginny?"
"She's good."
"Where'd you find the key?"
"Er-"
"How many Death Eaters did you fight?"
"I-"
"Do you have the key with you?"
"Can we see it?"
"Can we touch it?"
Neville didn't even have time to answer so he just waited patiently until they ran out of questions.
"I uh...well- I don't think it's really a very good idea to discuss some of these things here..."
"Why?" asked Fred, "it's perfectly safe here."
"Yeah," continued George, "the burrow is protected by countless charms. We're nearly undetectable all the way out here."
Neville decided that rather than try to answer all of their questions he'd direct the questions back at them instead.
"So how is your joke shop going?"
"Oh good mate! We've doubled our usual sales in the past month...guess with the war looming near people need a good laugh..." replied Fred.
"So what brings you here mate? Why aren't you at school?" asked George.
"Well," began Neville quietly, "it seems I've been discovered...the Death Eaters know I have the key..."
"Oh shit," replied Fred.
"Yeah...and Nelie's apparently one of them...earlier tonight she put me under the imperius curse and tried to take it."
"Blimey!" began George, "she can't be a Death Eater! I was going to marry her!"
"I don't know what she is," continued Neville quietly, "but she wants the key."
"How come the fit ones always turn out evil?" wondered Fred with disappointment.
"Wait...you say she had you under the imperius curse?" asked George.
Neville nodded.
"How did you get out of it?" asked George.
"Dunno...just willed it away with my mind."
The twins exchanged looks, eyebrows raised.
"You do know how incredibly difficult that is to do...right?" began Fred. "You have to have like...impeccable willpower."
Neville shrugged.
"Any news from the order?" he asked.
"Charlie and Kingsley are headed out to where you had your run in with those two Death Eaters to see if they spot anymore roaming around and Dumbledore sent Tonks undercover with Snape to meet with Lucius Malfoy to see what they are planning."
Neville's heart began to palpitate.
"Things are 'bout to get very ugly pretty soon..." replied George.
"But we're ready," added Fred, cracking his knuckles. "I say bring it on."
Neville wasn't quite as confident as these two but he had no choice in the matter. It wasn't as if he could just hide and come out when this was all over, especially since he was part of the reason this war was starting in the first place- he had in his possession what everyone wanted.
"So...you and Ginny pretty serious then?" asked Fred.
Neville blushed.
"Err...I dunno."
"Oh c'mon mate, we're not here to take the mickey out of you. Just curious is all..." coaxed George.
"I really like her a lot..."
"Such a good chap," teased Fred, slapping Neville on the back, "maybe our Ginny'll bring out the rascal in you yet, yeah?"
Neville smirked.
"Mum absolutely adores you," said George, "even before meeting you tonight all she did was fuss over how much of a gentleman everyone described you as and fawned over pictures Ginny showed her of you and how she's expecting grandchildren...it was rather sickening wasn't it Fred?"
Neville felt his face heat up and he was pretty sure it wasn't from the fire.
"Er...I'm flattered."
"We're just joking mate," added Fred, "we're glad you're dating our little sister. You're loads better than Dean Thomas..."
With Dean's name being mentioned George made a gagging sound.
"Yeah Ginny had him over last summer and he's a right prick," added George.
"Say Neville..." began Fred, "you wouldn't mind being the guinea pig for our latest experiment would you?"
"Errr..."
"No," started George, "remember...we promised Ginny..."
"Oh right," began Fred with disappointment.
"See our last experiment didn't go quite as planned..." began George, "paid a lad a galleon to help us out and somehow it backfired and...well he lost his eyebrows and a small chunk of hair..."
"It was hardly noticeable at all," added Fred. "His mum completely overreacted."
"We're lucky they didn't sue...however, we've learned from our mistake if you'd decide to be a willing participant," said George with a wink.
"You know...it'd just be our little secret- Ginny'd kill us if she knew we let you help us out."
Neville gave them a tiny smile and chuckled nervously. There was no way in hell he'd allow such a thing, he'd throw himself in a pit of baby fire-breathing dragons before subjecting himself to one of their crazy experiments.
"Well...I'm getting rather tired. I think I'm off to bed," replied Neville standing up. "'Night."
Neville made his way back inside the burrow, told Mr. and Mrs. Weasley good night and headed up to bed. As soon as he reached Ron's room he literally collapsed onto the bed and fell into a dreamless sleep.
Neville was awoken to someone gently shaking him.
"Neville? I've made breakfast and wanted to make sure you were just about ready to get up- no need to hurry though dear."
Neville sat up and reached for his glasses.
"Good morning Mrs. Weasley."
"Did you sleep well?"
"Yes thank you," answered Neville.
"Harry is going to be staying here at the burrow as well and he should be here any moment now."
Molly smiled at him and quietly exited the room.
Neville got up, jumped in the shower and went down to the kitchen where Molly, Arthur, Fred, George, Percy and Harry all sat eating breakfast.
"I've set you out a plate dear- have all you want there is plenty for everyone," replied Molly.
Neville smiled and stood awkwardly in the doorway staring at his feet.
"I'm uh actually not really that hungry right now..."
Molly placed her fork down and frowned.
Neville hated seeing the disappointment on her face so he took a seat next to Harry and forced a smile.
"I suppose I could take a few bites..." he reasoned.
Molly's frown immediately turned into a cheeky smile as she began loading his plate with all sorts of food. Cinnamon toast, scrambled eggs, bacon and blueberry pancakes doused in syrup.
He felt nauseous just smelling it all.
"Thank you," he mumbled.
"How's it going Neville?" asked Harry.
"Fine."
"Dumbledore decided it would be a good idea if I stay here as well...you know, since we both sort of go hand in hand with Voldemort's plans."
At the mention of Voldemort everyone fell silent.
Arthur cleared his throat.
"Percy how are things at the Ministry?"
"Chaotic," he replied glumly, "everyone is all in a dizzy due to the Death Eaters' knowledge of Neville having found the key. It's a mad house."
Neville mindlessly pushed his food around on his plate hoping that they would all finish before him so he could dispose of this disgusting stuff without having to actually eat it. He appreciated Molly taking the time to cook such a hearty meal for everyone but that didn't mean he had to stomach the idea of actually digesting it.
"You aren't eating dear."
Neville looked up to Molly's disapproving glance.
"Sorry- just caught up...thinking," he replied.
Molly watched him closely as everyone else carried on with their conversations.
Neville waited for an opportunity to escape but there had been none, he waited and waited and eventually his food was cold. Finally everyone had finished and gone to do other things and Molly had started on the dishes so Neville quickly grabbed an empty bowl and dumped everything from his plate into it and set it on the floor by his feet.
He stood up and handed his now empty plate to Molly.
"Sorry it took me so long to finish," he began with a smile. "I just...haven't had much of an appetite lately. Breakfast was very good. Thank you."
Molly smiled and took his plate.
"You are welcome."
He quietly grabbed the bowl from the floor, exited the kitchen and headed out past the orchard where he flung his uneaten breakfast out into the woods. He returned to the kitchen and helped Molly finish washing the remaining dishes and then decided to see what everyone else was up to. He found Fred, George and Harry degnoming the yard.
"Oy Neville- wan'a shot?" asked Fred.
"No thanks."
"C'mon mate, it's fun," coaxed George, as he flung a gnome- which shot out way past the garden and landed on its bum with a couple of bounces. It turned around and presented the boys with a rather rude gesture. "Silly gnomes," he sighed.
"I heard about what happened last night..." said Harry quietly.
"What?" asked Neville.
"How Nelie put you under the imperius curse...it's amazing that you were able to fight it...if not things could have ended up very badly."
Neville nodded.
"After you left the order had a meeting and Francis was a wreck- didn't say a word the entire time and ran out suddenly before it was even over. I don't know what's going on but something doesn't sit right with me about this whole situation..."
"I don't know who to trust anymore," sighed Neville.
"You can trust us mate!" replied George as he slapped Neville on the back. "Right Fred?"
"Right George!"
"Well since it seems you could use a little good news right about now Ginny is coming to visit," started Harry, "along with Ron and Hermione they should arrive around dinner time."
At this Neville's eyes lit up and his entire demeanor immediately became more optimistic.
"But how- haven't they got-"
"Dumbledore pulled a few strings," answered Harry.
Neville nodded and watched silently as the boys flung more gnomes.
"Are you feeling alright?" asked Harry eying the brunette closely.
"Sure why wouldn't I be?"
"You just seem a bit- off..."
"Oh..."
"Yeah but you know Neville- he's always been a bit off," joked Fred as he playfully jabbed Neville in the ribs.
"So as we speak Hermione and Ron are getting the D.A. together again and are attempting to recruit new members," began Harry, "that was a brilliant idea by the way. We need a brigade of students ready for any possible attacks at Hogwarts."
Neville nodded and began to pace around.
"What's the matter?" asked Harry.
"Nothing...just- tired of waiting I guess. I want this all over with."
"Waiting is nothing," began Harry calmly, "waiting is the easy part...once that's over with it's a matter of life or death...if anyone should know that it's me."
Harry did have a point but Neville couldn't help but feel irritated at how calm Harry could remain throughout all of this chaos but then again he was used to it.
"I think I'm going to go for a walk..." replied Neville.
"Alright," answered Harry, "see you."
Neville took off and traveled past the orchard out toward the woods.
He decided that he would apparate to Francis' residence to visit his family, that is if they were still staying there and sure enough they were.
Neville walked inside of his uncle's cottage and immediately he was met with the familiar griping of his gran coming from inside the kitchen.
He entered and there she was along with his great-uncle Algie and great-aunt Enid, all of them sitting at the dinner table sipping on tea and bickering as usual.
"Neville my boy! Good to see you again!" exclaimed Algie who stood up and firmly shook his hand. "We heard about you fighting off those Death Eaters!"
"We're so glad you came out alright," echoed Enid with a kind smile. "It sounds as though you've had your work cut out for you."
"So wonderful to see you all," Neville replied, breathing a sigh of relief.
His gran however, remained silent- her dark eyes looking him up and down, her lips tightly pursed. Neville knew this look very well, it was her infamous look of discontent.
"How are you all?" asked Neville, taking a seat next to his gran.
"We're fairing well as can be," began Algie, "although I'd personally rather be where the action is."
Neville smiled, his family had always been very energetic- always wanting to be where the latest happening was at, he couldn't imagine they liked being cooped up much.
"How are you gran?" he asked optimistically.
"I've been better," she replied dully, still eying him harshly.
Neville sighed.
"What's the matter gran?"
He could only imagine what was wrong, nothing was ever good enough for her.
"I am told that you are currently staying with the Weasley's?"
"That's right..."
His gran clicked her tongue but said nothing.
"So when do we get to meet your little girlfriend?" asked Algie with a grin.
"Er...I don't know."
"Neville darling," began his gran sternly, "do you really see it wise to reside with your..." she paused as if saying the word pained her, "girlfriend? You are easily distracted as is from completing regular day to day tasks...do you not think this will cause you to become further off task?"
Neville sighed.
"She's not even there right now gran."
"So you've got the key then eh boy?" asked Algie with intrigue.
Neville nodded.
"Merlin that thing had all but left my memory," he continued, "last I knew of it your parents had it."
"Are you hungry?" asked Enid, "I prepared brunch if you would like some."
"No thank you," declined Neville, "I ate at the Weasley's."
"How can they possibly afford yet another mouth to feed?" his gran remarked rather rudely.
"They seem to manage just fine," replied Neville through clenched teeth.
His gran tsked and turned away.
Neville loved his gran but couldn't stand to be around her when she acted like this- which was a majority of the time. He frowned and almost began to regret coming to visit.
"How did your mid-terms come out?" asked Augusta.
"I don't know yet..."
She sighed.
"I hope they are better than last year's scores," she began doubtfully, "otherwise you are going to find yourself working for a low income wage and settling for a less than worthy lifestyle such as what those Weasley's must endure."
Neville's entire face went red and he snapped.
"You know what," he began, his voice steadily rising, "if you didn't lead such a pompous, selfish and materialistic existence maybe you would see that the good in people has nothing to do with how wealthy or successful they are but rather how they treat others! The Weasley's are good people and have been kinder to me in the past day than anyone else in my entire life has ever been!"
Silence.
Algie cleared his throat and stood up.
"C'mon Enid...let's go have a look outside- shall we?"
Enid nodded and followed her husband outside.
Augusta's face immediately fell and her brow set in anger.
"Why you ungrateful- I gave up my life to make sure you were raised properly! Does that mean nothing?"
"No you didn't!" shouted Neville standing up and pointing a finger in her face. "You didn't give up anything! You still continued living your life just how you wanted regardless of taking me in! I can name more times that you haven't been there for me when I've needed you than when you were! You are selfish! You were always selfish! All you care about is how you are perceived by others! Well guess what? I don't care that you are a rich, successful pure-blooded witch! I don't care how much you can afford to spend on fancy luxuries! All I care about is you being my grandmother! I want you to tell me that you love me! I want you to take an interest in my life and my hobbies! I want you to focus on what I do right rather than what I continually do wrong! I want you to be proud of me!"
Neville paused and tried to get a hold of himself, he could feel tears threatening to spill out of his eyes but he refused to cry in front of his gran right now, she already viewed him as weak and he didn't want to encourage her further.
"Do you love me gran?"
His gran stared at him, traces of anger still visible on her face.
"ANSWER ME!"
She crossed her arms over her chest and looked away.
"You are being ridiculous," she replied simply.
"Are you ashamed of me? Do you wish it could be me who is confined to the prison of St. Mungo's rather than my dad?"
Silence.
"Sometimes I wonder if you even have a soul..." began Neville bitterly, "Grandad may have had his moments- his outlandish outbursts that he took out on us but at least I knew he loved me!"
Augusta sat unresponsive.
"SAY SOMETHING!"
"I will not speak to you under such rude and unkindly allegations."
Neville stood and stared at her, his eyes filled with tears.
"You have no idea what I have been through these past few months..."
His grandmother remained silent, continually sipping on her tea- her foot rapping against the linoleum floor impatiently as though she had somewhere to be.
When she didn't respond he continued.
"It's been a living hell and I've had to do it all alone...I haven't felt so lost and scared and unsure of myself in my entire life and I just want you to know that this has all made me stronger...maybe it'll help build me into the person that you had always hoped and longed I would be..."
His gran sighed and looked up at him, her brown eyes narrowed.
"Can't you see that I'm hurting right now gran? Do you even care?"
Finally she spoke.
"Of course I care darling..." she began in exasperation, "but how are you to learn anything if you do not deal with these things on your own?"
"So you're saying I should be thrown out to the dogs?"
"No..." began Augusta calmly, her anger subsiding, "what I am saying Neville, is that unfortunately the world can be cruel...times are dark and there isn't always going to be someone there to give you the answers or to save you from trouble...but the one person who will always be able to do such is yourself. You are the only person you can always trust in and rely on...do you understand what I am saying?"
Neville stared at his gran in awe, something she was saying had actually made sense. Her face had softened and her eyes opened up as she watched him closely.
"I am only attempting to prepare you for the world grandson...it isn't always a happy place- and it most certainly isn't a forgiving one."
Neville sighed and sat back down next to his gran.
"I'm sorry I yelled at you..." he began, he now felt incredibly guilty.
"It is quite alright," replied Augusta, "I must say I am actually quite pleased to see you growing a bit of a backbone."
Neville smiled, he grabbed his gran's hand and gave it a squeeze.
Neville spent most of the day catching up with his family. It was now almost 5 o'clock in the evening and he had completely lost track of the time. He imagined the Weasley's must have been worried out of their minds, wondering where in the world he could be.
"Damn!" he cursed to himself, "Gran! I forgot about the Weasley's...they must be worried sick!"
"Send them an owl," she replied.
"I-I can't...it's too dangerous."
Neville was just about to tell his family good bye and apparate back to the burrow when there was a knock on the door.
Everyone froze and waited, none of them making any immediate moves to answer it.
After another minute the knocking continued.
Neville slowly walked out of the kitchen toward the front door and opened it. He was greeted on the other side by Francis.
"Neville! Thank heavens you are alright! Charlie came to inform me hours ago that you hadn't returned to the burrow and that the boys hadn't seen you since after breakfast this morning...we have all been worried sick!"
"Sorry...I was only planning to stop by here for a few minutes just to say hi...lost track of time."
Francis stepped inside and pulled Neville into a tight hug.
The next thing they were met with was the shattering of glass. Neville turned around to see that his gran had emerged from the kitchen, she had dropped her tea cup and she appeared as though she had seen a ghost.
Neville moved out of the way and watched as his gran took in the sight of her son for the first time in years. No one said a word for the longest time.
"Hello mother," began Francis quietly. "Sorry to just drop by unexpectedly but we were worried about Neville."
Augusta opened her mouth to speak but no words escaped.
"Er- I suppose we should get going then- yeah?" replied Neville awkwardly.
But rather than accept Neville's advance to leave Francis stepped toward Augusta.
"Mum..." he began tiredly, "I-I'm so sorry...I've failed you in many ways and never dreamed that we would reconcile but now that I'm standing right here before you I want to make right of what I've done..."
Augusta bent down and calmly began to collect the pieces of her broken tea cup.
"Owl me as soon as you reach the Weasley's dear," she told Neville, ignoring the fact that her own estranged son whom she hadn't seen in years had just spoken to her.
"Mum please," continued Francis, "I don't expect you to forgive me but at least acknowledge that I am here!"
"I can not," she replied sternly.
"Why?"
"You know why."
Francis continued to walk toward her until he stood mere inches from her and then he bent down on one knee before her.
"Mum...please accept my apology. I've spent years doing good to try and make up for all the wrong that I have done. I've gone on to become a much better person- someone better than the one you used to know..."
Augusta stared down at her son over her long nose, her eyes narrowed disapprovingly.
"I do not wish to have you in my presence any longer," she replied coldly, seeming to have forgotten that it was in fact Francis' house she was residing in and not her own.
"But mum-"
"Do not call me that...I am not your mother and you are not my son."
Francis stood up and dusted himself off, slowly nodding his head with acceptance.
"I understand," he whispered. "Come Neville- we must be heading back now."
But Neville did not move. He stared at his gran with a mixture of sadness and hate. How could she stand there and deny her own son with such a cold stance as though he were a 'wretched alley rat,' as gran referred to people who were less potentially active or successful than her kind. It made Neville furious.
"How can you be so cold?" Neville asked her. "He's fully aware of the damage he has done but he's ready to make amends! Why can't you forget about the past and move on?"
Augusta's lips tightened to a thin line and her brows burrowed.
"Do not speak to me in that tone young man."
"Neville it's alright- really...let's just go," Francis pleaded.
"No- gran you are so impossible at times! Everyone knows it! When you pass on do you want to be remembered as cold and distant? Do you want to be remembered as the bitter, old lady whose heart was so hard that she couldn't even express her love? Is that how you want to be remembered? As someone who no one has kind things to say about? I know that isn't who you are...but that is how you often come off!"
Augusta stared at her grandson, her mouth slightly ajar.
Suddenly Francis began to cry.
"Mum- what happened to the woman you used to be before Frank..." he paused. "What happened to the woman who was strict with us but yet in good taste? The woman who smiled her beautiful smile and lit up an entire room? The woman who gave us hugs and kisses every night and told us she loved us?"
Neville stared at his gran with confusion. This woman Francis spoke of had never been a woman that Neville had known. It baffled him to think that his gran had ever once been as Francis described.
Augusta folded her arms over her chest.
"That is enough," she declared.
"I just want you to know that I never stopped loving you," continued Francis through sobs. "I never stopped."
And with that Augusta turned around and stalked back into the kitchen without a word.
Francis grabbed Neville by the arm and led him outside where they apparated back to the burrow.
"Excuse me- I just need a moment," replied Francis quietly as he walked off.
As soon as Neville turned around he saw the entire Weasley clan, plus Harry and Hermione outside on the front lawn.
"Neville!" cried Ginny as she ran toward him and flung herself into his arms.
"Hello Ginny..."
"I'm so happy you are alright! You had us all worried to death!"
"Sorry," he replied blushing. "I didn't expect to be gone as long as I was-"
But before he could continue she planted a rather large kiss on him and her lips felt so good against his that he suddenly forgot everything else and allowed himself to get lost in the moment.
He wrapped his arms around her waist and gently allowed for her tongue to enter his mouth as their kiss deepened. The feel of her warm mouth over his and the delicate way her tongue caressed against his made his heart flutter. He never wanted to stop kissing her.
"OY! How about saving all that for later when there isn't a rather underage audience in view!" shouted Fred.
"Yeah- good thing we haven't eaten already or I'd have tossed my food right here in front of everyone!" echoed George.
Neville softly pulled Ginny away and she turned and rolled her eyes at her brothers and stuck out her tongue.
"You are both just jealous because I have someone to kiss!"
Neville turned bright red as it began to set in that everyone was watching their every move.
Neville cleared his throat.
"Now would be a good time to beat me over the head with a shovel and bury me in the garden...I'll be quite happy there," he mumbled to Ginny with grief.
She giggled.
"Oh come on," she whispered back, "it's just my family..."
They cautiously made their way back toward the others, hand in hand.
"Hello everyone..." he began softly, "sorry I had you all so worried...I just went to go visit my family and lost track of time."
"Don't you dare leave again without telling someone!" called Molly as she made her way up to Neville and pulled him into a suffocating hug, "we thought you'd run away or been kidnapped!"
"Oy!" called Ron, "that's my baby sister you were manhandling out there!"
"Oh hush Ronald," hissed Hermione, "he wasn't manhandling her...it was very passionate...something you wouldn't know much about..."
"Hey! I know passion!"
"Yeah...passion to you is the way you look at mum's homemade meatloaf right before you stuff your face with it!" joked Fred. George snickered and offered his brother a high five.
Ron's face turned as red as his hair and he disappeared into the house.
"Alright- in you all go!" called Molly, ushering everyone back inside, "dinner will be ready in ten minutes."
Neville and Ginny were alone at last.
"I'm so happy to see you," she beamed.
"Me too...so how long will you be staying?" he asked.
"Just for a few nights," she answered.
"How did you get Dumbledore to allow you out of classes?"
"It wasn't all that difficult," she began. "I just offered to make it all up double when I return."
Neville smiled down at her and felt his troubles melt away.
"So...I know the burrow isn't much to look at but this is where I've grown up. It's home."
"I love it here," replied Neville, "and your parents have been very kind."
"So tell me about what happened last night..."
"I-I was walking back to the Gryffindor house when Nelie came out of nowhere...she demanded the key and when I wouldn't give it to her she put me under the imperius curse...but I managed to fight it off..."
"So this entire time she hasn't been on our side?" questioned Ginny.
Neville shrugged.
"'s a shame for Fred and George..." continued Ginny, "they were both already making wedding plans."
"The Death Eaters know I have the key...which means Voldemort knows. I don't know how much longer I can go on hiding Ginny...I almost think I should just face them- I'm tired of being a coward. I'm ready to fight head on."
"You aren't a coward Neville."
They sat in silence for a few minutes and then Neville stood up.
"I'm going to go look for Francis- I need to talk to him. Tell your mum I'll be in in a minute."
Ginny nodded and went inside.
"Where is Neville?"
"Oh he went to look for Francis," replied Ginny, who was setting the table for her mum.
"Does he know that dinner is ready?" asked Molly, getting up and walking toward the back door to look out.
"Yes. He wanted me to tell you that he'd be in in a minute."
"Oh- let him know that Francis is more than welcome to join us," Molly added.
"Mum can I talk to you about something?"
"Well of course dear, what is it?"
"Actually it's more of a favor...please try not to badger Neville during dinner."
Molly stared at her daughter bewildered.
"Why in Merlin's name would I do such a thing?"
"I mean like don't comment on what or how much he eats...he's very sensitive especially when it comes to food. He's very weight conscious."
"Weight conscious?" Molly questioned, raising her eyebrows.
"You know- like watching what he eats and stuff…"
"Why on earth would he need to watch what he eats?"
"I don't know mum- I always tell him he doesn't need to."
"Well I think he is too skinny...that boy needs some more meat on his bones."
"Okay but mum just remember what I told you…he's very sensitive and doesn't take very well to comments."
Mrs. Weasley did not look satisfied.
"Mum…please?"
"Oh alright dear."
Ginny walked to the door to watch for Neville while Mrs. Weasley walked out of the kitchen.
"DINNER TIME!" she called.
Neville found Francis not far from where they had apparated from and approached him slowly.
"Are you alright?" asked Neville.
"Oh yes," he replied turning to give Neville a small smile.
"Don't mind gran," he began, "that's just her nature...it may not have always been but it is now and I've learned to accept it. Just give her time."
"I would not have expected anything less from her."
They stood in silence.
"Neville we need to talk about what happened last night..."
"Why? Do you know something that I don't?"
"Actually I do, it wasn't Nelie that attacked you last night...it was my wife."
"So then...if that was your wife then where is Nelie?"
"That is unfortunately what I do not know. I assume that she was captured the night you were attacked at Frighning Hook...or possibly even before then."
"Oh no..." moaned Neville, "it's all my fault!"
"No," replied Francis, "no it isn't. My girl is strong, she's a fighter...I know that where ever she is she is managing. She's been trained on what to do if she were to ever be captured by Death Eaters."
"How did you know it wasn't Nelie?"
"I knew immediately," began Francis, "that the woman who attacked you was not my daughter...and my thoughts were confirmed not long after I took her to the hospital wing. The polyjuice potion wore off and before me lay my estranged wife Jessica- however, she escaped before I could question her on Cornelia's whereabouts."
Neville was racked with guilt, he couldn't help feeling as though it were his fault that she had been captured. He could have done more to protect her. He suddenly felt sick to his stomach.
"Don't worry," began Francis calmly, placing a hand on the boy's shoulder as though he could read his mind. "We'll find her...or she'll find us- one or the other."
"Would you like to stay for dinner?" asked Neville.
Francis sighed.
"No I really ought to be going. I've got to get back to searching for my daughter. I'll keep you posted on any news. Good bye Neville."
Neville waited until he heard the soft pop and made his way back to the burrow.
Dinner so far was smooth sailing. It wasn't as bad as Neville thought it was going to be. He had been worried due to the fact that there were so many of them present- including Mr. and Mrs. Weasley, Bill, Charlie, Fred and George, Ron, Ginny, Harry and Hermione but they had all been so wrapped up in their conversations with one another that they hardly even noticed when Neville walked in to join them fifteen minutes late.
He slowly lowered himself in the empty seat next to Ginny and looked around anxiously.
"Neville dear- make sure to have all that you want."
Neville watched with displeasure as Mrs. Weasley began to pile his plate with food.
"Eat up," she told him, which earned her a glare from Ginny.
Neville picked up his fork and began cutting up his food into tiny pieces. Mrs. Weasley had prepared baked ham along with scalloped potatoes and pasta salad.
"Wow this looks delicious Mrs. Weasley," he lied.
"Thank you dear."
"Say Dad? Did you hear about the raid at Zingers?" asked Charlie.
"No what happened?"
"Well a bunch of Death Eaters broke in and wrecked havoc on the place and just…absolutely blew the place to hell…the Ministry believes they were searching for some sort of documents..."
"Was anyone hurt?" asked Mrs. Weasley.
"Yeah nothing too serious though," answered Charlie.
"There are Death Eaters swarming all over the place ever since the breakout at Azkaban a few nights ago," began Hermione. "Why can't the Ministry just send the Dementors after them?"
"Well they could," began Mr. Weasley, "but they would have to take a lot of time and precaution as to make sure that there aren't just unreformed Dementors running off loose."
"Those Dementors do just about as much damage as they do good," began Bill, "they're good for keeping prisoners in check but they don't know when to stop. They don't come built with codes of conduct, having too many of them out at once could prove disastrous."
"Too bad we couldn't get a couple to put ol' Percy in his place," said Fred, which earned an icy glare from Molly that stopped him right in his tracks.
"Sorry mum it was a joke!"
"Well it wasn't a very funny one," she snapped.
Neville pushed his food around on his plate and hoped that no one had noticed that he hadn't eaten any of it but that was wishful thinking as just at that moment Ginny nudged him under the table and nodded at his plate.
He picked up his glass of water and drank the entire thing hoping that it would fill him up enough to where if he were to eat he wouldn't overdo it.
"How is your family doing Neville?" asked Mrs. Weasley.
"Fine," he replied. "They are just tired of being cooped up for so long."
"You should invite them here for dinner," she continued. "We would love to meet them."
"Yeah maybe."
Neville had so far been successful in pushing around the food on his plate enough to give off the illusion that he had eaten some of it until he glanced up and saw that Hermione had been watching him rather closely, a frown set on her face.
As much as he protested the idea he gathered up some food on his fork and shoveled it into his mouth, hoping that this would please her enough to refocus her attention elsewhere.
"Thanks for dinner mum," said Bill as he stood up and placed his dishes in the sink. "I've really got to get going now- Fleur's waiting. See you all. Nice to meet you Neville."
With a soft pop Bill was gone.
The minutes went by and one by one everyone began to finish their dinner and plates were being cleared until only Mr. and Mrs. Weasley, Ron- who had just begun third's, Hermione, Ginny and himself remained sitting.
"Dinner was wonderful dear," replied Mr. Weasley as he stood up and took his plate to the sink. Mrs. Weasley followed and began to start on the dishes.
Ten minutes later he and Ginny were the only ones still sitting at the table and he had managed to get by with only having to eat four more bites- which wasn't bad but it most certainly wasn't good either.
"How was it then?" asked Molly.
"Excellent thank you."
"You didn't eat a lot," she observed. "Are you feeling alright dear?"
"Yes."
Neville handed his dishes to Molly and began to help her until she shooed him away politely.
"No- you are a guest here. Go on and see what the others are up to."
Neville followed Ginny out into the sitting room where Harry, Ron and Hermione were watching Fred and George test out their latest invention.
"I'll be right back," he whispered. "I need to use the loo."
He slowly made his way up to the second floor washroom and closed the door behind him. He knelt down in front of the toilet and eagerly got rid of what little he had eaten. He loved the feeling of being empty and whenever he ate that feeling was taken away and he hated it. Whenever he purged he was able to regain that emptiness that he so loved.
Once he was sure he had gotten every last bit of food up he leaned back and gave a sigh of relief. It had been a very long day and he honestly felt as though he could go straight to bed right then. He stood up making sure to avoid the mirror and contemplated what he could do to make up for tonight's 'slip'.
"You fool! You idiot! How could you fall back into what they want! Think of what you want! Even though you got rid of it you and I both know that some of it is still lingering inside of you...waiting to attack...waiting to creep through every part of your body and make you fat!"
Neville felt sick- guilty and disgusting. He had been doing so well with avoiding eating at all costs and now he had gone and ruined all of that in a single moment of weakness. He was so angry with himself that he could barely stand it. He was almost certain that he had gained at least a pound, if not more- which he absolutely could not afford and would not allow.
Suddenly there was a soft knock on the door.
"Yes?" he called.
"Neville are you alright in there?"
He opened the door to find Ginny standing on the other side.
"Yeah I'm fine."
"Well you've been in there an awfully long time..."
"I know I was just getting ready for bed. I'm really tired."
Ginny frowned but said nothing.
He followed her downstairs to her bedroom where she sat down on the edge of her bed.
"Well I suppose I'm going to head to bed myself then," she replied. "We've got an early day tomorrow...Charlie has offered to take us dragon hunting."
"Dragon hunting?" questioned Neville.
"Yes- he doesn't kill them," she reassured, "just captures them and trains them."
"Sounds fascinating."
Suddenly Ginny got up and began to undress.
Neville's jaw dropped and he quickly got up to leave but Ginny blocked the door, quietly closing it behind her. Here was Ginny Weasley standing before him- without her pants, her sweater falling above her knees- exposing her sexy, smooth legs.
Neville closed his eyes and shook his head.
"Where do you think you're running off to so quickly?" she asked.
"Er- well I don't want to keep you from-"
But before he could finish his sentence she slowly pulled her sweater up over her head and was now standing in just her underwear. Neville immediately felt his cheeks flush pink as he stared at her in awe. Ginny had a beautiful body- curves in all of the right places- small, perky breasts held up by a lacy, pink bra.
As much as he cared for Ginny, things had progressed rather slow for them in terms of their physical relationship- painfully slow- but Neville hadn't minded. He was simply too shy and awkward to initiate anything more than a nice snog but apparently Ginny had been wanting more.
She made her way toward him and pulled him into a deep kiss, her lips moving quickly against his and her tongue invading his mouth hungrily. She broke the kiss and shoved him back onto her bed and climbed on top of him, her vibrant hair cascading down over her shoulders and surrounding his head in a pool of red.
"I'm not making you uncomfortable am I?" she asked.
"N-no...not at all," he replied as confidently as he could muster.
"Good," she grinned as she began to plant kisses on his neck. She reached back and unhooked her bra- lazily tossing it aside. Neville sat up and stared at her bare breasts which were right there in front of his face- in their perfect, white form- firm and delicate. Oh how he wanted to touch them, lick them and suck on them!
Neville's hormones were really starting to kick in now. He wasn't afraid of sex but he wasn't exactly desperate to rush into it either. After all, he had his insecurities with his body and couldn't imagine Ginny even wanting to see him naked- in fact, he dreaded the thought.
Neville fought the urge to take her right then and there but was having a hard time looking away from her gorgeous breasts. He looked up at her- she was so beautiful and she was with him! She was practically offering herself to him right then and there but he just couldn't.
"Go on- touch them," she whispered.
"I-I can't," he mumbled. "I-I'm sorry Ginny. I've got to go! Good night!"
Neville jumped up off of her bed and ran all the way upstairs to Ron's room and climbed into bed. Luckily Ron and Harry weren't in yet because he needed to be alone.
You idiot! his mind scolded. Ginny Weasley was RIGHT IN FRONT OF YOU- in the flesh, practically ready to take you then and there and you run away? What is WRONG with you?
Neville felt so embarrassed- he wondered what on earth Ginny was thinking right now. What sort of seventeen year old boy witnesses his girlfriend naked for the first time and runs away?
Neville didn't have time to ponder it for long because before he knew it he had drifted off to sleep.
Author's Note: So I've finally gotten back to writing a little more to the story as you can see! A lot going on in this chapter- we now know that Nelie in fact was not Nelie at all during the last chapter but rather Jessica Bloodworth and that the real Nelie is no where to be found, we know that the Death Eaters and Voldemort know that Neville has the key and are on the hunt and we also know that Ginny and Neville's hormones are starting to get a little wild...;)
I just want to make note that the last scene may seem rather shocking and/or out of place with the out of nowhere sexual tension but as I made clear in the summary at the beginning of this story- adult content and situations would be present- so far what we've seen from Neville and Ginny as a couple has been fluffy and innocent but as the story progresses they are both maturing and obviously, as young couples mature they want more- if you get my drift. So it's a little spontaneous but at the same time that is kind of how I view Ginny, as sort of the cute as a button, take home to your mom kind of girl but yet when the doors are closed the ferocious, fire sprite that she is takes over.
Anyways as usual thanks so much to my faithful readers for continuing to read my story and as always I can not stress this enough- please, please, please leave me your reviews! Comments- good or bad, questions, theories- anything! I thrive on your feedback!
Chapter 29 to follow. :)
