7, Crossing Letters, Burnt Notes
* * *
December 24th, Sherwood Forest
From: Serene Kennedy
To: Laurel Hunter
Dear Laurel,
I can only apologize for going away without telling anybody about it. But I had my reasons, and although Remus tells me a lot of people worried about my whereabouts, I still think my decision was right. Anyway - as you can deduct from my last sentence, Remus has found me … and just in time. But that's a long story. I may not come back to Hogwarts in the near future, but I certainly hope to meet you again soon, and then I'll tell you all about the last days.
Only so much: I felt really bad, all alone in London, and I have no idea how you survived when you left Severus last year.
I saw Ben Olsen a lot. You two never got along as far as I remember, but he really made an effort.
But then things got complicated, and I almost got myself killed only because I could not keep my mouth shut. Remus showed up out of nowhere - and saved my life … Just like in some old movie. Which makes it only harder to do what has to be done … Oh Laurel, I am so exhausted and tired of running away. So I decided to give myself a Christmas present, and just yield to the part of me that only wants to be with Remus, and not think about the future for a few days.
I am staying at the Lupins' cottage right now - yes, that's Remus' parents!
It's strange, I never thought family could be something so genuinely … pleasant. They are so nice! Although I don't deserve it. I mean, just imagine that your son brings an unconscious woman with him and demands you take her in and feed her and all that. A woman who has treated afore mentioned son not so kindly for years now.
Which reminds me - how is my darling Jonah? I guess he is a real big boy by now. Is he still suffering those night-mares? And do you still get up every night to carry him up and down the corridor so the great Potions master won't be disturbed?
Sorry. I didn't mean to pick on you, this being Christmas and all that.
Remus' father is going to take me into the forest tomorrow morning to choose a Christmas tree. Actually that won't be very far though, as that's where they live - in the middle of Sherwood Forest. They breed and raise magical creatures, and while I write this, I can see a purple peastork parading on the snow covered lawn. Peastorks look like overgrown peafowl on very long legs, so they don't mind the snow.
I'll mail this to Dobby and ask him to deliver it to you and to send me the trunk I left in my room in Hogwarts. In the first drawer of my desk is a present for Jonah - don't be scared, it is only a toy. But there is a clever little spell that makes it move (I designed the toy and Prof. Flitwick put together the spell - we might start a business venture together, ha ha).
I wish you and Jonah a Happy Christmas, and Severus as well if he chooses to leave his dungeons for long enough to celebrate with you. Since the Lupins' owl has not returned from its last flight yet, I am not sure if this letter reaches you in time.
Thank you for being my friend even when I behaved like a total thistle,
Serene Kennedy.
* * *
24th December - Hogwarts School etc
From: Laurel Hunter
To: Serene Kennedy
My dear Serene,
Remus has just dropped by and told me to my great relief that he has found you and you are staying with his parents. We (Severus and I - yes, you won't believe it, I know) were very worried about you hasty departure. You seemed so unhappy during the last weeks, and I can only regret that you would not trust me enough to confide in me.
Jonah misses you very much. In the seven weeks since you left, he learned to run without falling (runs very fast!). He often knocks at your door as we pass by and whispers "Ene", which is his name for you now. He still can't pronounce the R.
Do you remember the night-mares he had? Well, they only got worse by now. I am afraid Severus secretly curses the day we decided to take Jonah in. It tears me apart to see them both suffer with this situation. Jonah adores Severus, you should see his face light up when he hears him come in. And Severus avoids to touch him, talk to him or be in the same room with him. I really am at my wits' end, and guess I'll have to seek Dumbledore's advice. I love Severus. But I can't give up Jonah.
I know that after pouring all my misery over you, it will be pretentious to give you advice on your love life. But: I have never seen Remus Lupin as happy as he is right now. Whatever you decide to do, please do not hurt him. I trust you have a perfectly good reason for putting him off for such a long time. But to give in and then push him away once more, is nothing but cruel.
Merry Christmas from your friend who really should care about her own business, but sincerely hopes you both find the happiness you deserve,
Laurel Hunter
PS: The thumb print means: Jonah gives Aunty Ene a big kiss …
PPS: Will mail this off with Remus, if I catch him before he leaves. If not, will have to wait, since all the Hogwarts owls are frantic with Christmas deliveries.
* * *
24th December - Hogwarts School etc
From: Laurel Hunter
To: Claire Winterstorm-White
Dear Claire,
guess what? Remus has found Serene and the stupid girl is well and safe with his parents right now. I am so relieved!
Foolish - she is only six years younger than I, and I feel like her mother at times, desperate about her not seeing how much Remus loves her and all that.
Anyway - at my last visit we talked only about the dreadful attack and my fatigue (yawn!) so I forgot to ask you if you wanted to spend Christmas Day with us in Hogwarts? You must feel awfully lonesome, with Sirius on the run. No need to sit all alone in the big house. Christmas Lunch has always been an enjoyable affair, and I am sure everybody would be delighted if you joined us.
Yours,
Laurel Hunter (who'll take a nap, while Poppy takes Jonah for a walk)
* * *
24th December - Sherwood Forest
From: Serene Kennedy
To: Claire Winterstorm-White
Dear Claire,
I apologize for running away without notice. But at that time I saw not other way out of the situation and I still believe it was the right thing to do.
I am staying with Remus' parents at the moment. They run a resort for Magical Creatures in Sherwood Forest, and it is just incredible. They do a great job but are constantly short of money. I was wondering if you had any ideas to help them (the resort, that is - they take in dozens of abandoned creatures every year, not to mention those who already live in the forest).
Please - don't misunderstand this! I know you are always very generous where good causes are concerned, but the Lupins would never accept charity. (That makes Remus their son - and by the way, he looks a lot like his dad, and I even found out what the J in Remus J. Lupin stands for … Won't tell you though …)
But if you got any ideas for fund raising, let me know!
Abby (Remus' mother) will teach me to bake pumpkin pie tomorrow. There is a feast in the village nearby (really not so nearby …) and all the wizarding families meet in the town hall for a feast on the 25th. Everybody brings something to eat, and apparently Abby is famous for her pumpkin pie. She is a Muggle, but made the best out of being stuck in a forest cottage without electricity and without the ability to use magical devices. I have never seen anybody who enjoys cooking that much. (Well, there is Coco, but she is a house elf, so that's not comparable.) I've already gained two pounds in as many days.
The cottage looks really small from the outside, but is remarkably big - must be some kind of magic. There are several annexes where Remus' dad nurses sick creatures. Right now he keeps a litter of imps in a big nest of straw. They are incredibly cute, even though they will be blind for a few more days.
Besides the wild animals they got a kneazel, two ferrets and a talking raven (who keeps picking at my hair and scares me a bit). Oh, and then there is Falada, a huge horse they brought with them when they moved from France to Britain.
Wow, I learned a whole lot about Remus within the last 24 hours. Strange how one can … well … intimately know a person, and still have no idea about their background? Did you know Remus was born in France? Apparently his father got offered the position in Sherwood when Remus was seven years old. His mum is from Devon though. From what Abby tells me, Remus' grandparents were less than happy when their only son fell in love with a Muggle, and disowned him. But he married her nevertheless, and now they celebrated their 35. anniversary last year. Hopeless romantics, the whole lot, and I fear that Remus thinks all love affairs end like his parents'!
He is so different here, Claire! You should see him. Of course he is still the kindest, nicest, most polite wizard I know - but he also laughs a lot, and seems so at ease with what he is.
And who'd ever thought that Remus has sisters? Apparently he got three of them, Helena and Livia living in France with their families, and the youngest one, Julia, a musician, tours Ireland with her band right now. They are all expected home tomorrow, and to be honest, I am a bit frightened …
I don't know what Remus told his family about me - but from the way they treat me I guess that his mother suspects us having an affair, and his father knows we do. Naturally they know an awful lot about werewolves, they have a huge collection of books on lycanthropy. Of course they know about the life-mate thing. I'll have to talk to Remus when he returns, and I must find a way to make him understand that he must be wrong about me. I am sure there is somebody out there, and she'll make him happy.
I can only hurt him.
As you can tell from the smeared letters, I am feeling low again. It started as soon as Remus left for Hogwarts. But I'll come over it. I must.
But enough of me.
How's the baby? Is she kicking you? Will you have a Blessing Ceremony when she gets her name? Have you made up your mind about the name yet? And may I design her robe, pretty please?
Funny, how we all know it will be a girl …
Any news from Sirius? For your sake I hope he is well and in safety, and the two of you will be reunited soon.
Take care, and cut back on your office hours! You are the boss, after all.
Merry Christmas, to Harry as well (and Sirius if you happen to see him which I hope you won't as it is dangerous for all of you ….)
Your friend,
Serene Kennedy
PS: I enclose a few sketches of maternity gowns I designed in London. Am not sure about the color scheme, though.
* * *
(Shopping list, written on Winterstorm Inc. notepad):
Elves: assorted woolen jumpers
Hagrid: same (only size 56)
Minerva: book voucher?
Albus: socks, filled with candy
Harry: training weekend with Catriona Dollop, Chaser (Whatevertheyarecalled- Canons)
Laurel & S: agreed on no present, thank Merlin
Jonah: sledge
Sirius: eternal love
* * *
24th December - Winterstorm Manor, Hogsmeade
From: Claire Winterstorm-White
To: Serene Kennedy
Dear Serene,
still no sign of you and I am really worried by now. I send this by owl and can only trust in the birds superior ability to find anybody. Even you, who has disappeared without notice and without a trace.
Since this is Christmas, I am not going to scold you - but let me tell you this: It is insufferable how you treat Remus! I always defend you when Sirius says you are not good for Moony (I mean, he used to say this when he still lived with me ...) BUT now I am starting to reconsider when I see the poor wizard going to pieces.
I always had the impression you loved him, I saw you look at him with so much tenderness. But in the last seven weeks I had the dubious pleasure to watch a decent man go half crazy because the woman he loves ran off without an explanation.
Well, sorry about the rant. I had to get it out.
Now let me tell you what happened in your absence. Virtually nothing. I got two more months to go. None of my robes fit anymore, and as I don't intend to spend the next weeks in my dressing gown, it is either you return soon - or Gladrags.
It is very quiet around Hogwarts now with all the students gone home for the Holidays. Did you hear about the attack on King's Cross? Of course you did - I doubt there is any place in the wizarding world (apart from the Carpathian mountains, maybe) were it didn't make front page. The most horrible thing was that the Hogwarts Express was due to arrive at Kings Cross just as the attack started, but stopped dead on the tracks outside of London. The engine broke or something … Anyway, it took hours until the train made it into the station and by then the attack was over. Just to imagine that hundreds of students would have fallen victim to the Dementors, gives me goosebumps.
Harry decided to stay in Hogwarts - or more precisely at Winterstorm Manor, but if he'd been on that train … I know I talk like his mum, which I am not of course, but I take it as training for fussing about my own baby …
Serene, I can't imagine what scares you so much about Remus. I know you don't trust men in general, but he would never hurt you. Whatever it is you fear, you should tell him. I am sure he understands. And he of all wizards deserves a little happiness, for coping with his disease so bravely. He is very cute as well - but I guess you have noticed that by now.
See, I am starting all over, again.
Please let me know that you are well. If you don't want me to know your address that's fine with me.
Remember how you told me about the time you spent in that dreadful Muggle hospital and they only had this tiny plastic tree every year? I hope you got a Christmas tree wherever you are, a great big tree with candles and apples and popcorn and fairies.
Happy Yule, my dear,
your friend Claire.
PS: I know you would never ask me for money - but if you need anything, just go to the Winterstorm office in Diagon Alley, and ask for my accountant. He's been advised to hand you any amount of money without questions. No, this is not pity, stupid. You are an investment, after all I set great hopes in "Serene Rags" or whatever you are going to call it.
BTW: I enclose a sealed parchment I promised to pass on to you - which I do hereby, if under protest. It is from You-Know-Who. (No, not that YKW, rather YKW2 … or is it 3? - ha ha, sad joke.) Ben Olsen, I mean. I really have a bad feeling about the guy, but you seem to like him. Please be careful around him, Serene!
Will be sent by express owl.
* * *
(Draft on back of History test, sixth year):
Severus, my love,
I never thought I'd dread to talk to you one day. After all we promised each other to never let misunderstanding come between us again.
But now I am so afraid of what you are going to say, that I thought I'd better write you a letter to …
* * *
23rd December - Salazar Court, Knockturn Alley 13B, London
From: Ben Olsen
To: Serene Kennedy
Serene, my lovely,
where are you?
I got the impression you did not agree with my mission a few days ago. But you never gave me any opportunity to explain how important it was for me and my advancement in the Death Eaters' ranks. Good news - I am now the Master's second-in-command!
Don't know if you learned what happened to that fool Malfoy? He tried to dupe me by stopping the trains. Well, he paid dearly for that!
Return to me, let me explain, and you'll understand. I need a strong, beautiful witch by my side in my new position - and I can't think about anybody who could fill that position better than you, my bossy redhead.
Ben Olsen
PS: Laeticia de Malheur seems quite taken with you and asked me to pass her invitation "as soon as you return." She is our liaisons with the French movement, and can give you valuable advice concerning your style etc…
* * *
(Scribbled on a scrap of parchment):
Laurel,
don't wait up for me. Will be stuck in lab all night.
S.
* * *
24th December - Winterstorm Manor, Hogsmeade
From: Claire Winterstorm
To: Laurel Hunter
Dear Laurel,
thank you for your invitation.
But I won't be alone, as Harry has decided to spend the holidays with me. After all I am some kind of relative, or so he says, and the only one he really likes beside Sirius. (He is incredibly sweet for a sixteen-year old, don't you think so?)
So we'll have a family lunch - just Harry, I and the baby.
XXX Claire
PS. Got any plans for New Year's Eve?
* * *
24th December - Hogwarts School etc
From: Albus Dumbledore
To: Narcissa Malfoy
Dear Narcissa,
I'd like to convey my and the school's staff condolences at the death of Lucius. Although our ways have led us apart, I still remember a very gifted young wizard who had a distinctive sense of responsibility and honor. I know that Lucius' last thoughts were for you and his son.
All I can offer you is my support, should you need it in any way, and my sympathy. I am afraid Draco will not take his father's death easily. He is at a difficult age right now. So if you have need of me (or Severus …) please do not hesitate.
Yours sincerely,
Albus Dumbledore.
* * *
24th December - Sherwood Forest
From: Serene Kennedy
To: Albus Dumbledore
Dear Albus,
you asked me to call me with your given name and so I do, but I feel very uncomfortable.
I only wanted to let you know that I am well, and thank you for your advise and for listening to me all those months.
I am staying with Remus - just for a short while, just because he is so happy now. But I have not forgotten, what I need to do.
Have a happy Christmas, and I hope to see you again one day under luckier stars.
Your ever thankful student/colleague/friend
Serene Kennedy
PS.: Jerome and Abby Lupin asked me to include their best wishes as well.
PPS: Does the name Laeticia de Malheur mean anything to you?
* * *
(Written on back of sales recipe for Hippogriff grooming brush):
Fashion Design by Serene Kennedy
by Sarah Kennedy
by Sally Kennedy
by Mrs Remus Lupin
by Serene Lupin
Remy. Remy. Remy. Remy. Remy. Remy. Remy. Remy.
Too much egg-nog - get a grip, girl!
To do:
Letter to Laurel (send to Dobby)
Letter to Claire (mention MWF, include sketches)
Letter to Dumbledore (Albus!)
burn this note
* * *
* * *
December 24th, Sherwood Forest
From: Serene Kennedy
To: Laurel Hunter
Dear Laurel,
I can only apologize for going away without telling anybody about it. But I had my reasons, and although Remus tells me a lot of people worried about my whereabouts, I still think my decision was right. Anyway - as you can deduct from my last sentence, Remus has found me … and just in time. But that's a long story. I may not come back to Hogwarts in the near future, but I certainly hope to meet you again soon, and then I'll tell you all about the last days.
Only so much: I felt really bad, all alone in London, and I have no idea how you survived when you left Severus last year.
I saw Ben Olsen a lot. You two never got along as far as I remember, but he really made an effort.
But then things got complicated, and I almost got myself killed only because I could not keep my mouth shut. Remus showed up out of nowhere - and saved my life … Just like in some old movie. Which makes it only harder to do what has to be done … Oh Laurel, I am so exhausted and tired of running away. So I decided to give myself a Christmas present, and just yield to the part of me that only wants to be with Remus, and not think about the future for a few days.
I am staying at the Lupins' cottage right now - yes, that's Remus' parents!
It's strange, I never thought family could be something so genuinely … pleasant. They are so nice! Although I don't deserve it. I mean, just imagine that your son brings an unconscious woman with him and demands you take her in and feed her and all that. A woman who has treated afore mentioned son not so kindly for years now.
Which reminds me - how is my darling Jonah? I guess he is a real big boy by now. Is he still suffering those night-mares? And do you still get up every night to carry him up and down the corridor so the great Potions master won't be disturbed?
Sorry. I didn't mean to pick on you, this being Christmas and all that.
Remus' father is going to take me into the forest tomorrow morning to choose a Christmas tree. Actually that won't be very far though, as that's where they live - in the middle of Sherwood Forest. They breed and raise magical creatures, and while I write this, I can see a purple peastork parading on the snow covered lawn. Peastorks look like overgrown peafowl on very long legs, so they don't mind the snow.
I'll mail this to Dobby and ask him to deliver it to you and to send me the trunk I left in my room in Hogwarts. In the first drawer of my desk is a present for Jonah - don't be scared, it is only a toy. But there is a clever little spell that makes it move (I designed the toy and Prof. Flitwick put together the spell - we might start a business venture together, ha ha).
I wish you and Jonah a Happy Christmas, and Severus as well if he chooses to leave his dungeons for long enough to celebrate with you. Since the Lupins' owl has not returned from its last flight yet, I am not sure if this letter reaches you in time.
Thank you for being my friend even when I behaved like a total thistle,
Serene Kennedy.
* * *
24th December - Hogwarts School etc
From: Laurel Hunter
To: Serene Kennedy
My dear Serene,
Remus has just dropped by and told me to my great relief that he has found you and you are staying with his parents. We (Severus and I - yes, you won't believe it, I know) were very worried about you hasty departure. You seemed so unhappy during the last weeks, and I can only regret that you would not trust me enough to confide in me.
Jonah misses you very much. In the seven weeks since you left, he learned to run without falling (runs very fast!). He often knocks at your door as we pass by and whispers "Ene", which is his name for you now. He still can't pronounce the R.
Do you remember the night-mares he had? Well, they only got worse by now. I am afraid Severus secretly curses the day we decided to take Jonah in. It tears me apart to see them both suffer with this situation. Jonah adores Severus, you should see his face light up when he hears him come in. And Severus avoids to touch him, talk to him or be in the same room with him. I really am at my wits' end, and guess I'll have to seek Dumbledore's advice. I love Severus. But I can't give up Jonah.
I know that after pouring all my misery over you, it will be pretentious to give you advice on your love life. But: I have never seen Remus Lupin as happy as he is right now. Whatever you decide to do, please do not hurt him. I trust you have a perfectly good reason for putting him off for such a long time. But to give in and then push him away once more, is nothing but cruel.
Merry Christmas from your friend who really should care about her own business, but sincerely hopes you both find the happiness you deserve,
Laurel Hunter
PS: The thumb print means: Jonah gives Aunty Ene a big kiss …
PPS: Will mail this off with Remus, if I catch him before he leaves. If not, will have to wait, since all the Hogwarts owls are frantic with Christmas deliveries.
* * *
24th December - Hogwarts School etc
From: Laurel Hunter
To: Claire Winterstorm-White
Dear Claire,
guess what? Remus has found Serene and the stupid girl is well and safe with his parents right now. I am so relieved!
Foolish - she is only six years younger than I, and I feel like her mother at times, desperate about her not seeing how much Remus loves her and all that.
Anyway - at my last visit we talked only about the dreadful attack and my fatigue (yawn!) so I forgot to ask you if you wanted to spend Christmas Day with us in Hogwarts? You must feel awfully lonesome, with Sirius on the run. No need to sit all alone in the big house. Christmas Lunch has always been an enjoyable affair, and I am sure everybody would be delighted if you joined us.
Yours,
Laurel Hunter (who'll take a nap, while Poppy takes Jonah for a walk)
* * *
24th December - Sherwood Forest
From: Serene Kennedy
To: Claire Winterstorm-White
Dear Claire,
I apologize for running away without notice. But at that time I saw not other way out of the situation and I still believe it was the right thing to do.
I am staying with Remus' parents at the moment. They run a resort for Magical Creatures in Sherwood Forest, and it is just incredible. They do a great job but are constantly short of money. I was wondering if you had any ideas to help them (the resort, that is - they take in dozens of abandoned creatures every year, not to mention those who already live in the forest).
Please - don't misunderstand this! I know you are always very generous where good causes are concerned, but the Lupins would never accept charity. (That makes Remus their son - and by the way, he looks a lot like his dad, and I even found out what the J in Remus J. Lupin stands for … Won't tell you though …)
But if you got any ideas for fund raising, let me know!
Abby (Remus' mother) will teach me to bake pumpkin pie tomorrow. There is a feast in the village nearby (really not so nearby …) and all the wizarding families meet in the town hall for a feast on the 25th. Everybody brings something to eat, and apparently Abby is famous for her pumpkin pie. She is a Muggle, but made the best out of being stuck in a forest cottage without electricity and without the ability to use magical devices. I have never seen anybody who enjoys cooking that much. (Well, there is Coco, but she is a house elf, so that's not comparable.) I've already gained two pounds in as many days.
The cottage looks really small from the outside, but is remarkably big - must be some kind of magic. There are several annexes where Remus' dad nurses sick creatures. Right now he keeps a litter of imps in a big nest of straw. They are incredibly cute, even though they will be blind for a few more days.
Besides the wild animals they got a kneazel, two ferrets and a talking raven (who keeps picking at my hair and scares me a bit). Oh, and then there is Falada, a huge horse they brought with them when they moved from France to Britain.
Wow, I learned a whole lot about Remus within the last 24 hours. Strange how one can … well … intimately know a person, and still have no idea about their background? Did you know Remus was born in France? Apparently his father got offered the position in Sherwood when Remus was seven years old. His mum is from Devon though. From what Abby tells me, Remus' grandparents were less than happy when their only son fell in love with a Muggle, and disowned him. But he married her nevertheless, and now they celebrated their 35. anniversary last year. Hopeless romantics, the whole lot, and I fear that Remus thinks all love affairs end like his parents'!
He is so different here, Claire! You should see him. Of course he is still the kindest, nicest, most polite wizard I know - but he also laughs a lot, and seems so at ease with what he is.
And who'd ever thought that Remus has sisters? Apparently he got three of them, Helena and Livia living in France with their families, and the youngest one, Julia, a musician, tours Ireland with her band right now. They are all expected home tomorrow, and to be honest, I am a bit frightened …
I don't know what Remus told his family about me - but from the way they treat me I guess that his mother suspects us having an affair, and his father knows we do. Naturally they know an awful lot about werewolves, they have a huge collection of books on lycanthropy. Of course they know about the life-mate thing. I'll have to talk to Remus when he returns, and I must find a way to make him understand that he must be wrong about me. I am sure there is somebody out there, and she'll make him happy.
I can only hurt him.
As you can tell from the smeared letters, I am feeling low again. It started as soon as Remus left for Hogwarts. But I'll come over it. I must.
But enough of me.
How's the baby? Is she kicking you? Will you have a Blessing Ceremony when she gets her name? Have you made up your mind about the name yet? And may I design her robe, pretty please?
Funny, how we all know it will be a girl …
Any news from Sirius? For your sake I hope he is well and in safety, and the two of you will be reunited soon.
Take care, and cut back on your office hours! You are the boss, after all.
Merry Christmas, to Harry as well (and Sirius if you happen to see him which I hope you won't as it is dangerous for all of you ….)
Your friend,
Serene Kennedy
PS: I enclose a few sketches of maternity gowns I designed in London. Am not sure about the color scheme, though.
* * *
(Shopping list, written on Winterstorm Inc. notepad):
Elves: assorted woolen jumpers
Hagrid: same (only size 56)
Minerva: book voucher?
Albus: socks, filled with candy
Harry: training weekend with Catriona Dollop, Chaser (Whatevertheyarecalled- Canons)
Laurel & S: agreed on no present, thank Merlin
Jonah: sledge
Sirius: eternal love
* * *
24th December - Winterstorm Manor, Hogsmeade
From: Claire Winterstorm-White
To: Serene Kennedy
Dear Serene,
still no sign of you and I am really worried by now. I send this by owl and can only trust in the birds superior ability to find anybody. Even you, who has disappeared without notice and without a trace.
Since this is Christmas, I am not going to scold you - but let me tell you this: It is insufferable how you treat Remus! I always defend you when Sirius says you are not good for Moony (I mean, he used to say this when he still lived with me ...) BUT now I am starting to reconsider when I see the poor wizard going to pieces.
I always had the impression you loved him, I saw you look at him with so much tenderness. But in the last seven weeks I had the dubious pleasure to watch a decent man go half crazy because the woman he loves ran off without an explanation.
Well, sorry about the rant. I had to get it out.
Now let me tell you what happened in your absence. Virtually nothing. I got two more months to go. None of my robes fit anymore, and as I don't intend to spend the next weeks in my dressing gown, it is either you return soon - or Gladrags.
It is very quiet around Hogwarts now with all the students gone home for the Holidays. Did you hear about the attack on King's Cross? Of course you did - I doubt there is any place in the wizarding world (apart from the Carpathian mountains, maybe) were it didn't make front page. The most horrible thing was that the Hogwarts Express was due to arrive at Kings Cross just as the attack started, but stopped dead on the tracks outside of London. The engine broke or something … Anyway, it took hours until the train made it into the station and by then the attack was over. Just to imagine that hundreds of students would have fallen victim to the Dementors, gives me goosebumps.
Harry decided to stay in Hogwarts - or more precisely at Winterstorm Manor, but if he'd been on that train … I know I talk like his mum, which I am not of course, but I take it as training for fussing about my own baby …
Serene, I can't imagine what scares you so much about Remus. I know you don't trust men in general, but he would never hurt you. Whatever it is you fear, you should tell him. I am sure he understands. And he of all wizards deserves a little happiness, for coping with his disease so bravely. He is very cute as well - but I guess you have noticed that by now.
See, I am starting all over, again.
Please let me know that you are well. If you don't want me to know your address that's fine with me.
Remember how you told me about the time you spent in that dreadful Muggle hospital and they only had this tiny plastic tree every year? I hope you got a Christmas tree wherever you are, a great big tree with candles and apples and popcorn and fairies.
Happy Yule, my dear,
your friend Claire.
PS: I know you would never ask me for money - but if you need anything, just go to the Winterstorm office in Diagon Alley, and ask for my accountant. He's been advised to hand you any amount of money without questions. No, this is not pity, stupid. You are an investment, after all I set great hopes in "Serene Rags" or whatever you are going to call it.
BTW: I enclose a sealed parchment I promised to pass on to you - which I do hereby, if under protest. It is from You-Know-Who. (No, not that YKW, rather YKW2 … or is it 3? - ha ha, sad joke.) Ben Olsen, I mean. I really have a bad feeling about the guy, but you seem to like him. Please be careful around him, Serene!
Will be sent by express owl.
* * *
(Draft on back of History test, sixth year):
Severus, my love,
I never thought I'd dread to talk to you one day. After all we promised each other to never let misunderstanding come between us again.
But now I am so afraid of what you are going to say, that I thought I'd better write you a letter to …
* * *
23rd December - Salazar Court, Knockturn Alley 13B, London
From: Ben Olsen
To: Serene Kennedy
Serene, my lovely,
where are you?
I got the impression you did not agree with my mission a few days ago. But you never gave me any opportunity to explain how important it was for me and my advancement in the Death Eaters' ranks. Good news - I am now the Master's second-in-command!
Don't know if you learned what happened to that fool Malfoy? He tried to dupe me by stopping the trains. Well, he paid dearly for that!
Return to me, let me explain, and you'll understand. I need a strong, beautiful witch by my side in my new position - and I can't think about anybody who could fill that position better than you, my bossy redhead.
Ben Olsen
PS: Laeticia de Malheur seems quite taken with you and asked me to pass her invitation "as soon as you return." She is our liaisons with the French movement, and can give you valuable advice concerning your style etc…
* * *
(Scribbled on a scrap of parchment):
Laurel,
don't wait up for me. Will be stuck in lab all night.
S.
* * *
24th December - Winterstorm Manor, Hogsmeade
From: Claire Winterstorm
To: Laurel Hunter
Dear Laurel,
thank you for your invitation.
But I won't be alone, as Harry has decided to spend the holidays with me. After all I am some kind of relative, or so he says, and the only one he really likes beside Sirius. (He is incredibly sweet for a sixteen-year old, don't you think so?)
So we'll have a family lunch - just Harry, I and the baby.
XXX Claire
PS. Got any plans for New Year's Eve?
* * *
24th December - Hogwarts School etc
From: Albus Dumbledore
To: Narcissa Malfoy
Dear Narcissa,
I'd like to convey my and the school's staff condolences at the death of Lucius. Although our ways have led us apart, I still remember a very gifted young wizard who had a distinctive sense of responsibility and honor. I know that Lucius' last thoughts were for you and his son.
All I can offer you is my support, should you need it in any way, and my sympathy. I am afraid Draco will not take his father's death easily. He is at a difficult age right now. So if you have need of me (or Severus …) please do not hesitate.
Yours sincerely,
Albus Dumbledore.
* * *
24th December - Sherwood Forest
From: Serene Kennedy
To: Albus Dumbledore
Dear Albus,
you asked me to call me with your given name and so I do, but I feel very uncomfortable.
I only wanted to let you know that I am well, and thank you for your advise and for listening to me all those months.
I am staying with Remus - just for a short while, just because he is so happy now. But I have not forgotten, what I need to do.
Have a happy Christmas, and I hope to see you again one day under luckier stars.
Your ever thankful student/colleague/friend
Serene Kennedy
PS.: Jerome and Abby Lupin asked me to include their best wishes as well.
PPS: Does the name Laeticia de Malheur mean anything to you?
* * *
(Written on back of sales recipe for Hippogriff grooming brush):
Fashion Design by Serene Kennedy
by Sarah Kennedy
by Sally Kennedy
by Mrs Remus Lupin
by Serene Lupin
Remy. Remy. Remy. Remy. Remy. Remy. Remy. Remy.
Too much egg-nog - get a grip, girl!
To do:
Letter to Laurel (send to Dobby)
Letter to Claire (mention MWF, include sketches)
Letter to Dumbledore (Albus!)
burn this note
* * *