Saturday morning, Harry and Gia awake about seven thirty. After showers, Harry puts on the nice trousers, clean T-shirt, and a plaid shirt. Harry grabs his wand and jacket. Gia grabs her jacket and bag. They leave the house with Snuffles in tow.

Harry grabs Gia's backpack and wears it himself.

Gia says, "Thanks."

* * * Walk to NPS * * *

Brian and Celeste join up.

"Nice hat Harry." says Brian.

"Why is he coming?" asks Celeste.

Gia says, "Cause, he wants to see what my day is like and St. Mary's doesn't have classes today."

Harry says, "I'm actually caught up on my homework, so I can tag along."

"Sounds like that's not a frequent event. Being caught up that is." says Brian.

"Normally, you're right. But I have to stay caught up, it's a part of the bargain I struck to spend time with Gia." says Harry.

"You must have gotten them at a sweet spot" says Brian.

Harry says, "Very nice considering that St. Mary's is a boarding school."

"Gia, have you fucked yet?" Celeste whispers to Gia's ear.

"No" Gia whispers back. Celeste giggles.

"What's so funny?" asks Brian.

"Nothing." says Celeste.

They enter Noigate Public School just before eight thirty. Derek Spaath approaches.

"Hey Slut!" Derek yells.

"Ignore him." Harry says to Gia.

"Who's your John?" Derek says.

Snuffles restrains Harry. However, Derek's pants fall down. People in the hall stare in amazement.

Gia, Harry, Brian, and Celeste walk past Derek.

Gia says to Derek, "Double check your suspenders next time, Knicker Boy."

Murmurs become audible from the crowd. Gia, Harry, Brian, and Celeste head for their first class.

"Nice timing." says Brian.

* * * Chemistry * * *

Harry, Gia, Celeste, and Brian enter Chemistry. They sit at a table. Gia pulls up a stool for Harry. Derek comes into the class and takes a nearby table. He shoots a darting look at Gia. Harry notices this and returns the look.

The teacher, Williamson comes in. He says, "You should have already read today's experiment. However, I will recap the important points." He explains the procedure, the reactions, and the expected results.

Gia whispers to Harry, "In other words, we produce a dull reaction and measure the dull product. Something that is obvious from Thursday's handout."

They prepare the setup. Brian places the beaker over the burner. Gia measures out the liquids. Harry weighs some of the powders. Celeste verifies that they are following instructions. Williamson wanders over.

Williamson says to Gia, "This must be your boyfriend. Seems adept with the scales."

"Oh yes, this is Harry. Harry, this is Mr. Williamson." says Gia.

Harry says, "Hello This is somewhat similar to St. Mary's. There, it's a bit more applied, but still the same idea."

"Normally we don't have school on Saturday, but recent events have forced this." says Williamson.

"What recent events?" asks Harry.

Celeste pipes up, "You wouldn't know Harry. But we've had a rash of bomb threats recently. School's been closed a lot lately."

"While there are usually extra days in the schedule, we've used them up. So, schools' being held on the occasional Saturday. That leaves plans for summer holiday intact." says Williamson.

"Bomb threats? Why?" asks Harry.

"Well, supposedly, some bureaucrat has been getting information that some terrorist wants to flatten the school." says Williamson.

"Closing the school is probably the safe thing I guess." says Harry.

"Certainly is. I mean, what if we held school and the threat was carried out?" asks Williamson.

Harry says, "I'd do the same thing if I were in your position."

Williamson says, "Well, let you get back to your experiment fellows."

Derek shoots at Gia, "Guess having a John is useful Ms. Slut. They'll carry your bags and attract a teachers attention to their pet."

Derek's beaker explodes and soaks him. Drops of the mild acid splatter around the room.

"Mr. Spaath, you weren't paying attention were you?" yells Williamson. "Everybody wash up, just in case." He goes over to inspect Derek's equipment.

Harry and Gia head for the nearest washing station. Quickly, they wash their faces, hands, and other exposed skin. Harry checks out Snuffles, washing a bit.

Williamson checks the mixture in the beaker. He announces, "It's not dangerous. However, wash up to be safe. Your clothes and other items will likely be fine. Feel free to wash them if you wish."

Harry helps Gia, Brian, and Celeste clean up their experiment. They hand in the group writeup to Williamson.

Williamson says to Harry, "Sorry you had to see that incident today."

Harry says, "Don't be. It'll make your class memorable."

Williamson grins a bit and replies, "Thanks."

Brian says, "Funny, Derek is having a bad day. He got a zero on that experiment."

Celeste says, "Most the school will like that of course."

Harry says, "That's generally true of bullies. Most of the school hates him, but the bully doesn't see that. He thinks he's popular and well liked. Tend to be arrogant and try to pick on the ones that stand up to them."

"I assume there are bullies at St. Mary's?" asks Brian.

Harry says, "Yeah, one in particular hates me. Draco Malfoy and his two big and dumb thugs that worship him. Most everyone hates him, I've punctured his ego on occasion."

"See you two." says Brian as he and Celeste head off.

Gia explains, "They've got Modern History right now. I've got Algebra, Derek's in that class as well."

Harry and Gia enter the classroom and sit at adjacent desks.

Dillard, the teacher, enters. He collects homework and then lectures for thirty minutes on solving sets of linear equations. They then work for the remainder of the period.

Dillard walks toward Gia.

Gia says, "This is Harry. Harry, this is Mr. Dillard."

"Nice to see you, are you good at Algebra?" he asks.

"No, I'm not a numbers person. My friend Hermione is though." Harry says.

Derek asks, "Hermione? Do you mean that freak from primary school?" Derek is sitting behind them and is twiddling his pencil aggressively. Harry stares at Derek. Derek's pencil goes flying in a nice arch landing on the floor. Snuffles is giving a low growl at Harry.

Harry says, "Hermione is *not* a freak. You shouldn't toss that pencil, you could hurt someone."

"Not to mention me." says Dillard to Derek. Dillard gives Derek a detention.

Derek protests, "The pencil slipped."

At the end of the lesson, we exit the classroom.

Gia whispers to Harry, "Lemme guess, the pencil did not just slip." She sees his look and then kisses him.

* * * Dodge Ball * * *

Harry and Gia enter the Gymnasium. Ms Halderman approaches them.

"Hi Gia, your boyfriend is welcome to participate if he'd like." Halderman says.

"Harry, I did pack some appropriate shorts and T-shirt if you'd like to." says Gia. Brian wanders up to them.

Harry shrugs and says, "Sure."

Brian says, "Harry, I'll show you the locker rooms. You can stash that bag in my locker."

"Thanks." says Ms Halderman. Gia gives Brian a quick kiss on his cheek.

Harry and Brian head for the boys locker room. They encounter a crowd waiting by the door.

"It's locked." says Gerald, a burly light skinned six footer with brown hair and blue eyes.

Harry steps forward in defiance of this and twists the doorknob. The door opens.

"You're slick Harry." says Brian.

"I take that back." says Gerald in bewilderment.

The rest of the boys enter. Brian shows Harry the locker. After changing, the group exists and head to a field outside.

Ms. Halderman says "Last night in the pub, Mr. Pass challenged us to some friendly dodge ball today. I accepted. We'll be running a bit into the lunch period, but I'm sure you won't mind."

"Who?" Harry asks.

"From Smeltings over there." says Brian, pointing.

On the field are a bunch of Smeltings in red shorts and white T-shirts. Pass and Halderman toss out about two dozen balls.

Harry points to the fat one and asks Brian, "Oh my, can he run?" They dodge a pair of balls aimed their direction. A look of recognition is on the face of the fat Dudley.

Brian says, "Not that I've seen. Wobbles around. It is challenging when the ground shakes. Know him?" Brian catches a ball and throws it at Dudley, it hits.

Harry says, "Yeah, he's my cousin, Dudley. He hasn't outgrown the killer whale description yet." Harry catches a ball, and attempts to throw it a Piers, but it misses.

Brian says, "You two look so different. We do the dodge ball with them every couple of weeks or so. I take it you don't do this often." Brian dodges a ball and catches another. Harry dodges a pair of balls aimed at him.

Harry says, "Thanks for the compliment. Who normally wins?" Brian hits one of the Smeltings. Harry dodges three balls.

Brian says, "They do usually, by a small margin. It's hard to throw with the earthquakes. Normally they have Dudley and that Piers roll around. Doesn't matter if they are in or out."

By this point, only five of Harry's fellow players are still in. Ten Smeltings are still in.

Harry says, "See Derek's trying to poke fun at Dudley. I'll let him continue." Harry tosses a ball and tries a Banishing Charm on it. The ball zooms rapidly and hits a Smelting hard.

Brian says, "Nice one there. I take it you two don't really get along?" Harry jumps to intercept another ball being passed to another Smeltings. With another charm, Harry hits Piers. Brian tosses another ball.

Harry says, "No. I notice Derek is still in." Harry dodges six balls at once with a nice jump. Harry suggests, "Let's get closer to them."

"Closer?" asks Brian in disbelief, "Though I noticed you can dodge the balls pretty well."

Harry catches a ball, runs closer to the Smeltings and pelts an adjacent kid. Another Smelting is about to pelt Harry when the boy wets his shorts. Harry runs back to Brian. Now, their team just has Harry, Brian, and Derek in.

Harry says, "Scare easily, don't they? At my school, I'm on the house sports team. Similar to soccer but with some added features."

"Gia probably likes your build from it." says Brian as he pelts another Smelting. The others are watching with interest as the games' never been this close before. There are three Smeltings left in.

"Yeah, she does." says Harry as he dodges several balls successfully. The teachers have by now removed some of the balls from play so there's only six players left. Harry continues, "Anyways, the added features include a pair of iron balls that are hit around to knock out the players." Derek hits another Smelting.

"Iron balls to knock players out?" says Brian in disbelief, "No wonder that you dodge these things." A Smelting pelts Derek. It is now two against two.

With another charm, Harry pelts a Smelting. Harry asks, "How long have you known Gia?" Harry dodges another ball. Brian wasn't so fortunate and got hit. Now it's just Harry against the Smelting.

Harry catches the ball and jumps. To others, this is a very winded jump. Harry realizes he's flying a bit. Harry takes advantage of the surprise and pelts the remaining Smelting, the one with wet shorts. Harry lands firmly on the ground.

Brian comes over says, "Wow! That must've been what, six feet up!"

"Don't use that ball." Harry warns.

Brian looks pleased. Dudley complains to both teachers about using Harry. The kids from Noigate crowd around.

Derek snides, "I see what Gia likes in her Johns, a jumper must perform well in bed."

Harry stares down Derek and says, "Shove off." Derek backs off from Harry's glare.

The teachers line them up for another game. They toss out only a dozen balls.

In the opening salvo, Derek aims for Harry instead of the Smeltings. Harry dodges it. In response, the team aim nine balls at Derek, hitting him. Once again, their team wins the game with only Brian and Harry remaining.

Harry approaches the Smeltings and shakes some of their hands. He says, "Nice game."

The NPS students look stunned by this unusual diplomacy.

* * * Slip * * *

The class heads back to the locker rooms.

Harry says to Brian, "That was fun."

"Anytime." says Brian.

"So, how long have you known Gia?" asks Harry.

"Ever since I started primary school with her, Celeste, and Hermione." says Brian.

Brian and Harry enter the locker room and head to Brian's locker. After stripping, they enter the communal shower.

Derek, thinking he had the opportunity, runs at Harry saying, Hey yells "A fucking bastard who wants to be sent to his parents in a pine box!"

Harry however, gives Derek's foot a quick look. Derek slips and falls onto his back. Derek slides underneath Gerald. This spooks Gerald enough to force him to pee onto Derek. The other boys laugh.

Harry leans over Derek and says, "Sorry, can't accept your offer. My parents are already dead."

Derek grasps his leg and starts howling in agony

Ms Halderman runs into the locker room and dashes for Derek. She asks and group of goggling naked boys, "What happened?"

A boy, Frank, speaks up, "Derek wanted to fight Harry. Derek ran toward Harry in the shower. Derek slipped."

Gerald says, "Spooking me with a full bladder. Something had to give."

Halderman says, "Use those showers over there and don't touch Derek. I'm getting the nurse." She runs out of the locker room. A minute later, Halderman returns with the school nurse. The nurse is Eric. Eric examines Derek.

Eric says, "Most likely, a broken leg. I need an ambulance."

Slowly, the boys finish the shower. Eric notices them moving by and spots a face he knows.

Eric asks, "Harry? What are you doing here? Aren't you supposed to be at St. Mary's?"

Harry and Brian stop. Harry says, "Eric, special arrangements with the Headmaster."

Eric says, "Quite a deal. Did Derek actually try to attack you?"

"Yes, he was running for me, insults of course." says Harry.

"Need I ask how he slipped?" asks Eric.

"No." says Harry. Brian seemed a bit puzzled by this.

The paramedics arrive to stretcher Derek out to the ambulance.

One paramedic remarks, "At least he's already undressed. Makes our job a tad bit easier."

The paramedics haul Derek out of the locker room.

Brian asks, "What was that about? "

Harry replies, "Let's just say that Eric guessed the cause of Derek's slip."

The other boys are talking.

Frank says, "Funny, Derek slips and breaks his leg in the shower."

Gerald says, "While attacking Harry no less."

Brian says, "Kinda interesting. Like when you thwarted that burglary earlier this week, in your underwear."

Gerald asks in amazement, "Thwarted a burglary?"

Brian says, "Yes, he heard the burglars, crept downstairs, and tied them up. Made it easy for the police."

"I see why Gia let you come, to size up Derek." says Frank.

Harry admits, "Part of it, yes."

"You were good today, even spite that fatso's waddling." says Gerald.

"Dudley probably won't live long with that weight problem." says Harry.

"You know him?" asks Frank.

"His cousin apparently." says Brian.

Harry says, "Always a bully to me when he managed to catch me. That wasn't very often. Though he had better luck when the pig in a wig description fit him." The boys laugh at this one.

"You mentioned your parents were dead?" asks Frank.

Harry says, "Yep, age of one. I was sent to my Aunt and Uncle, they loathed me while spoiling Dudley."

"That explains Gia then." says Brian, not disclosing any more. He asks, "So you gave Gia that ring, didn't you?"

"Yes." says Harry.

"Derek's been trying to steal it all week long." says Brian.

Harry says, "Well, Derek won't succeed with Snuffles guarding her. Derek can't touch her."

Frank says, "We noticed that Monday. He's quite smart."

Finally dressed, the boys exited the locker room. Harry, in his cowboy hat, meets up with Gia.

"What happened? We heard that Derek was carried away in an ambulance." says Celeste.

Brian says, "He slipped in the shower and broke his leg."

"Those games were fun." Harry says to Gia.

"You changed the odds a bit." says Gia as she kisses Harry.

They head up to the cafeteria with Snuffles in tow. They pass through the lunch line and get lunch. They find a table and sit. Eric joins.

"Interesting incident earlier Harry." says Eric.

Harry says, "I should point out that attacks qualify as an emergency. As you could tell, I was naked at the time too."

"True. I probably over speculated." says Eric.

Brian catches on a bit. "What did you do Harry? The floor wasn't slippery."

Harry says, "Let's just say the slip was encouraged. Running in the shower is a bad idea anyways."

"You're quite the devil at times." says Brian.

"And mine" says Gia.

"So Harry, are you going to bring her to St. Mary's?" asks Eric.

Harry says, "Not until I can work out the security for it."

"You're more than a match for Derek, and you're worried about security?" asks Brian.

Harry replies, "Yes Brian, I am. Anyways, what's on your schedules for the rest of the day?"

* * * Pest Control * * *

Harry, Gia, Brian, and Celeste are walking down one of the halls. They have Health in about twenty or so minutes. Harry freezes as he sees somebody around the corner. Immediately he shrinks back onto the wall. Brian, Celeste, and Gia fall back as well.

Harry moans, "What's she doing here?"

The lady is rapidly approaching and Harry is running out options. The others follow Harry's lead as he ducks through the nearest door. They enter the girls bathroom.

Brian whispers, "Fortunately it's empty."

The pair of footsteps approach the door. Harry pulls Brian into a stall and shuts the door. They stand on the rim of the toilet and crouch. The door opens and person enters. The voice of Rita Skeeter says, "Cornelius, wait here. I'll see if these two ladies know anything."

Fudge says, "I'll wait out here."

Rita says, "Hello Girls. Having a lovely day?"

"Yes." says Gia.

Rita says, "I'm Rita Skeeter, a reporter. Can I ask you some questions?"

Gia says, "You may ask. I may or may not answer."

Rita says, "Fair enough. You are?"

"Gia." says Gia.

"Celeste." says Celeste.

"Got a ring Gia, who is he?"

"No answer." says Gia. Brian notices the relief in Harry's face.

"Did you hear about the theater last week?" Rita asks.

"Burnt down." says Gia.

Rita says, "It was attacked. Does that scare you?"

"Actually, no." says Gia.

"It doesn't? Why?" asks Rita.

"Dunno, just feel safe, that's all." says Gia.

"And having school on Saturday?" asks Rita.

"Sucks. I was planning on the mall." says Celeste.

"Nice change of pace." says Gia.

"Thanks for your time." says Rita and exits the bathroom.

A couple of giggly girls come in and use the adjacent stalls. Harry and Brian quietly exit the stall and rejoin Gia and Celeste.

Gia steps out and says to Celeste, "All clear."

Harry and Brian exit the bathroom with Celeste.

"I take it, you know her?" asks Brian as they walk along.

"Yes, and I didn't want her to see me." says Harry.

"She talked to us during History. She is doing to do a front page article tonight on the recent attacks." says Brian.

Harry says, "If she saw me, your article would be moved to a back page. I'd be on the front page."

"In the, Yellow Prophet or was that the Daily Telegraph?" asks Brian.

Harry says, "Daily Prophet. An obscure newspaper."

"It's only a reporter, why the worry?" asks Brian.

"Her kind of publicity would get Gia killed." says Harry.

"Have to admit, never thought I'd be hiding in the girls bathroom." says Brian.

Celeste asks Brian, "Did you like it?"

"Of course he liked it." says Gia.

* * * Health * * *

They enter the Health room and take seats toward the back. Eric is teaching this.

"It's still sex ed this week." says Brian to Harry.

Eric says, "A quick fifteen minute quiz. You have until 12:45."

Eric passes out the quiz. He motions to Harry. Harry follows Eric over to a pair of easy chairs in the back.

Harry says, "Today's been fun. Different point of view."

Eric says, "Expect it must be. You must love Gia in order to tag along at school of all places."

"Yes." says Harry.

"Some friends at Hogwarts write saying that there's a pool." says Eric.

Harry says, "Thanks to Fred and George Weasley. I'll let them know to disqualify you from entering."

Eric snickers and says, "I could take their proceeds. Anyways, I know the consequences if I spilled the beans."

"With Rita and Fudge poking around." says Harry.

"You've ran into them already?" asks Eric. "They were here earlier asking questions."

"They didn't see me. Otherwise I'd be on the front page, again." says Harry.

Eric says, "Probably right. She asked me about you, what I remembered from your first year. I told her to ask you."

Harry says, "Thanks. Hate reading about my day in the paper. There's a beetle crawling in under the door, get rid of it."

Eric gets up and dumps the beetle out the window. Eric sits down and asks, "Afraid of beetles?"

"No, just don't like Rita Skeeter crawling in like that. She's unregistered." says Harry.

"Really? Useful for a reporter I guess." says Eric.

Harry says, "And dangerous. If she publishes that I'm here, Voldemort and Death Eaters to tear this place apart."

"Blimey! Of all people." says a flinching Eric.

"Eric, why should I be afraid of Voldemort?" asks Harry.

Eric says, "Get your drift. I also heard about Cedric's death last year. You were connected somehow?".

At this point, Gia's standing next to Harry. "Um, don't mean to disturb this Mr. Miller, but we're done with the quiz."

"Blimey!" says Eric. He looks at the clock, it's 12:50 and everybody is done with the quiz.

Eric collects the quizzes and apologizes to the class, "Sorry about that."

Harry sits in the desk behind Gia. He starts playing with her hair.

Eric gets back up to the front and addresses the class. He says, "As one couple is already demonstrating, attractions are normal at your age."

Harry gets the hint and leaves Gia's hair alone. The class is amused.

Eric continues, "It's important to understand the consequences of that emotion."

Harry actually perks up and pays attention. Eric covers some more on the basics of this. The class is giggling. At the end of the lesson, Eric grabs Harry again.

Eric says, "Harry, I know Madam Pomfrey doesn't cover very much. Have you had that session?"

"Yes, a bit early due to rumors." says Harry.

Eric hands Harry a booklet. Eric says, "This is a bit more informative. I suggest you read it."

Gia grabs the booklet and places it into the backpack.

Celeste head off for another class. Harry, Gia, and Brian enter the mini-auditorium for the Drama class.

* * * Bullies * * *

At the end of the day, Gia and Harry leave the school. Harry has his arm wrapped about Gia. Gia has her arm wrapped around Harry's midriff.

Gia says, "You definitely helped today."

Harry replies, "Thanks. It's funny how every school has its bullies."

They start heading down the street crowded with shops. They are near the candy shop when they encounter a group of people. Derek, Piers, and Dudley are among them. Derek is leaning on his shiny new crutches and his leg is in a cast. Another bully, Nelson Grant approaches Harry.

Harry says, "Sorry, don't think I know you."

Dudley cautions, "Be careful Nelson."

Nelson says, "Nelson Grant. You will pay for what you did to my friend!"

Harry replies, "He's the one that slipped."

Snuffles is starting to growl at the group.

Gia says, "Dudley, trying to break a weight record?"

Dudley says, "Mum and Dad won't take you in this summer."

Harry replies coolly, "Dudley, I do not care what Aunt Petunia or Uncle Vernon will or won't do. Now, advise your group to back off."

Derek turns to Dudley and asks, "You know this shrimp?"

Dudley replies, "Cousin. His parents were drunk when they crashed their car, killing themselves."

Harry replies, "Dudley, you know full and well that is a lie! Your Aunt Marge found that out. Care to follow?"

Dudley grasps his butt and says, "Don't you dare!"

Snuffles continues growling.

Derek says, "Smart mutt, knows when you should back off."

Harry stands in front of Derek. Harry glares into Derek's eyes.

Harry says, "Listen carefully. You and your gang will leave Gia and her friends alone. Otherwise, I will become very angry. Dudley knows what my temper can do.'

Dudley warns, "Derek ... Let them go. It's not worth it."

Nelson says, "Quiet you sissy." Nelson gives Harry a mild shove on the shoulder. Nelson wets his pants.

Derek says, "We'll deal with you later."

Harry says flatly, "Like I said before, leave us alone."

Harry, Gia, and Snuffles start walking along. The voices from the gang carry a bit.

Piers says, "Nelson, how could you? In front of them, of all people?"

Dudley says, "Harry did it somehow."

Nelson says, "We'll get him back."

Harry, Gia, and Snuffles turn the corner. Harry turns his attention back to Gia.

Gia says, "Nice of you to stand up to them."

Harry replies, "With bullies, you have to."

"Those fellows usually talk tough, but they rarely carry out their threats."

"That's good. Still, they should not be tossing around idle threats like that."

They take the shortcut into a small park. Harry looks at Gia's watch. He says, "Snuffles, can you give us a bit of privacy? We'll be loitering a bit."

Snuffles wanders off. Harry and Gia walk into a fairly secluded grove.

Gia says, "I thought you had practice."

"I do, but not until four. We have at least a twenty minutes."

"Drama was a bit shorter than normal."

Harry says, "It's a bit nice here today."

Harry and Gia sit onto the ground and they embrace start kissing. They become quite involved. Gia finally gives Harry a quick hand job. Harry is grinning as they sit back up.

Harry says, "Thanks."

Gia replies, "You did accompany me to school."

Harry looks at Gia's watch. He says, "Well, let's go."

Gia and Harry leave the grove and head along the path. Snuffles catches up with them. They reach the Prescott house and go into Gia's bedroom. Snuffles comes in and closes the door. Harry gets out his Portkey. Snuffles transforms.

Harry says childishly, "Hi."

Sirius says, "Harry, be careful with your magic!"

Gia says, "What?"

Sirius replies, "Let's see, I saw three incidents on Derek, Banishing Charms during dodge ball, that one with Nelson, and some during that drama class. I suppose Derek's leg injury might have a connection as well."

Harry protests, "Derek was trying to attack me in the shower! I had to."

Sirius says, "That may be the only case you can justify as an emergency. Remember, you're trying to keep a low profile here. Avoid the damn magic!"

Gia snickers a bit. She says, "Now those incidents make sense."

Sirius says, "This isn't funny. Too many reports will raise suspicion among certain people."

Harry says, "I need to return for practice." Harry vanishes.