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Challenges listed at the bottom.

Word Count: - 431

Happy Birthday, Dad

Lee walked through the castle, watching his own progress on the Marauder's Map as he went, to make sure there were no professors around. He'd snuck the map from George's robe pocket after making sure the twins were asleep.

He knew he shouldn't but he didn't think they'd mind.

They were his friends after all. He just… didn't really want all the questions that came with asking to borrow it. It wasn't that he didn't want to tell them, he just… still couldn't bring himself to talk about it just yet.

The map showed the coast was clear, so Lee took the stairs up to the Astronomy Tower. He was out of breath by the time he got to the top, but it was worth it.

He dropped to the floor by the window, and dropped the map beside him, smiling. He looked up at the stars. He only did this once a year, though this was the first year he'd been able to use the map to make sure he didn't get caught.

"Hey dad," he murmured. His mum always told him his dad was in the stars, and even though Lee was older now, he still chose to believe that maybe she was right. "Happy birthday. Sorry it's so late, I had to wait until everyone went to sleep. It's still your birthday though, for another, uh," he paused to check his watch, "eleven minutes."

Lee shifted on the floor. He wished he'd thought to bring his cloak, it was cold up there, and the wind was blowing through the tower.

"I miss you, Dad," he continued. "I wish you could see me now, see that I'm growing up. I hope I'm making you proud, Dad, I really do. Mum says you're proud of me but… I guess I wish I could hear you say it. Just once."

Lee sighed. "But that's not how death works, is it. I guess I'll just have to hope, and wait until I join you. Someday. Hopefully it won't be for a while."

Lee glanced down at the map, and winced when he saw Filch walking the third floor corridors. He'd have to go if he wanted to make it back without being caught.

"I, uh. I love you, Dad. I guess I'll see you next year."

Lee stood up and just stared at the sky for a moment before he turned and left. One day, he'd tell Fred and George about his dad.

But, a little while later as he slipped the map back where he'd taken it from, not just yet.

Written for:

Murder Mystery: Who: Lee Jordan

Mini Golf: Hole 16: Marauder's Map

Game Of Life: Beige