Okay, I'm completely at lack of words as to the number of reviews
I've received! 125!?! It's astounds me that so many people are reading this
and reviewing. I cannot begin to say how elated I am. WARNING: This grin is
never coming off my face =D
Alright, so last chapter. I was typing it up and thinking about what exactly I wanted Oliver and Katie to do. So then I thought back to my childhood. We all caught fireflies when we were little-at least everyone I know did. It's like an innocent little game (I know it's cruel to catch bugs and keep them contained but I did release them) that all little kids play. I just wanted to share some info 'bout how close those two were. I know many of you-ok most of you- are eager to see Oliver and Katie "together". I believe even a kiss between the two would suffice but alas, I cannot write no such thing. I know, I know-why?
Well, such moments should be special and ya know, significant. I just think if I were to write that now it would be rushed. Yeah, yeah they've been friends for 9 and some odd years but still- give it time. I think love is something that just happens not something that can be done. You have to go beyond a person's looks and much deeper into him/her. There's always more than meets the eye.
Did you know the divorce rate in America is over 50%? Now that's just sad and disappointing. Marriage is becoming a big joke in this country. I don't see it fit to divorce unless there is harassment involved or any other major life-damaging problem. Divorce has become a convenience to many and it takes away from the meaning of love. Love is such a strong word yet it has a myriad of meanings. One can have love for their pet, family, friends, etc. I admire all those couples that are working through their problems for the sake of their relationship, their love. I am not saying divorced couples are bad people- I just believe the rate should be decreasing rather than increasing.
These are all just my personal opinions. You are free to brush them aside or even disagree with them. I did not mean to offend anyone or their loved ones. If I have I am extremely sorry. I've just been thinking about the issue of "love" lately and my minds swimming with thoughts. I truly believe that someone somewhere is made for you. You just gotta look harder. That someone may be on the concession stand, the tollbooth, the bus stop, or even your next-door neighbor. (hee, hee) : ) All I'm saying is love is something extraordinary and we as people are blessed to feel such an emotion/feeling. Pandora may have unleashed some of the more shameful and hurtful emotions but nothing can compete with love.
Wow, I feel like Microsoft Word was my pensive. I am glad I shared my thoughts with you. If you read any of it, feel free to comment on it. Writing this story just got me thinking. Okay so before I put in writing any more of my thoughts I present to you Chapter 8 of Right In Front of Your Eyes.
~Right In Front of Eyes~
Disclaimer: This is getting really annoying. It should just be plain obvious by now. Duh!
Chapter 8- A Deeper Mystery Than the Universe
"Can anyone tell me?" the ghost professor asked. "Does anyone know the name of the legendary sword that Arthur pulled out of a stone? Anyone? Anyone? Miss Lackley? No? Anyone?"
It was another History of Magic class. As exciting as ever, Professor Binns resorted to volunteering people for answering his questions. The Hufflepuffs in the class were talking about the Quidditch match this weekend between them and the Ravenclaws. A few students were passing notes, while others were lazily sitting at their desks staring straight ahead.
As Binns continued to call out names randomly, Katie took a trip down memory lane. She was four and her grandfather had just bought her a toy broom. Her mom wouldn't let her have it, saying it was too dangerous for her. A four year-old Katie began to throw a tantrum. Her mum paid no attention to Katie's fit and placed the broom on a high shelf.
Waiting for her mother to leave the room, the young girl busied herself with a few blocks. After a few minutes, her mother left for the kitchen and Katie took her chance. She pushed a chair under the shelf and placed a few heavy spell books on top. Magic Made Manageable, Charms and Spells for Everyday, and Tidy Tips boosted little Katie so the tips of her fingers just touched her broom. On tiptoe, Katie grasped her broom and turned to climb down when she lost her balance. She had taken a nasty fall and had grazed her back on the corner of the coffee table.
"Mr. Brent, you must know. No? Honestly!"
Katie smiled, she loved that toy broom. The fall was worth it and the scar it left was too. Katie rubbed the spot behind her shoulder remembering where the corner of the table had made contact with her.
"Miss Bell, why don't you give us the answer since you find the situation amusing."
Katie quickly wiped the smile off her face. Binns wasn't someone, er some ghost, she wanted to spend detention with. "Erm could you repeat the question sir?"
With an exasperated look on his transparent face, Binns recurred the question.
"The name of the sword was Excalibur. Legend had it that whoever pulled the sword out of the stone would become King and save England and lead it to prosperity."
"Well done Miss Bell, five points to Gryffindor. Now if you'd all turn to page 47 of your texts you will read what some venerable wizards have to say about this topic."
* * *
"Uh, food!" Katie made for the breadbasket and attacked a soft roll.
"Wow Katie, I've never seen you eat so fast," Angelina commented as Katie continued to shove food into her mouth in a most un-lady-like fashion.
"So hungwy. Skipped bwekfast," Katie blurted out just as Oliver sat down.
"Practice tonight. Everyone coming, right?"
"Now Oliver, you know we wouldn't miss practice for the world," George said.
"Yes, we just love freezing our arses off all for the love of the game," Fred added.
"Great! I'm glad to hear you feel the same way as me," Oliver spoke. Honestly, at times it was difficult to determine whether Oliver was as dense as he sounded or just too busied with Quidditch.
"You coming Kates?"
Katie replied with a nod as her arm went for the pumpkin juice.
"Whoa Katie, pace yourself. I don't want you to get too heavy for the broom. We are going to be flying."
Katie shot Oliver a glare. She knew he was just teasing. "I haven't eaten all day. Is it wrong to feed myself so I don't die of malnutrition?"
Oliver thought it best not to answer. After a brief meal he headed back to his afternoon classes. "See you all at practice."
* * *
"Pureblood," said a husky voice. An iron door slowly swung open from its concealed closed state allowing him into the room. He walked over to the unlit fireplace and stood staring at the musty brick wall. In a fit of anger he picked up the nearest object, a small glass sphere-possibly a Rememberall, and hurled it at the wall. The fragile glass ball shattered to pieces upon impact. He paced, the pieces of glass crunching beneath his weight.
He stopped shortly after and then turned for the stairs leading to the dormitories. "Diggory thinks he can prove it's me. What could he possibly have to pin this on me?" The burly figure made its way up the stairs, muttering further to himself.
* * *
A chill wind rustled the leaves of the Forbidden Forest. A half a dozen scarlet clad figures made their way onto the Quidditch pitch.
"Where in blooming hell is Katie?" asked a clearly infuriated Oliver.
"Calm yourself mate, she's probably running a bit late. In fact, I bet she's cursing herself for being late."
"Yeah, and I know she said she'd be here when I left the dorms," Alicia added after George.
"She should be here by now!"
"Well, just wait a few minutes longer, she'll co-"
Oliver cut Angelina off. "We're not waiting anymore. Mount your brooms. I'm releasing the balls."
The five did not wish to tick Oliver off any more than he was. Even Harry knew better. The only thing-rather one-who could make his Captain this angry was Katie. Harry knew that, the team knew that. "Best stay clear of Oliver when Katie gets here," Harry told himself as he kicked off.
"Dear Merlin! Where the hell is my other armguard?" Katie was frantically searching for her missing piece of equipment. "I'm gonna be so late for practice. He'll have probably started without me." She checked her trunk once more before stopping to think. Katie figured she had left the guard in the locker room and dashed from her dorm. The frigid autumn air stung her unprotected face as she ran towards the lockers.
She pulled open the small compartment, rummaged through its contents and pulled out a beaten, worn armguard. Fastening it to her arm as she ran out of the room, Katie began to pant. She hurried over to the middle of the pitch, mounted her broom, and was about to kick off when a voice stopped her from doing so.
"Think it's about time you joined us Bell?" Oliver asked as he dismounted his broom.
He had used her last name. That took a jab at Katie. They usually used each other's surnames when poking fun but now he seemed far from the playful mood.
"I was looking for my armguard and well. . ." her voice trailed off.
"It takes you a half an hour to find one piece of equipment? Next time just come without it!" he yelled. The rest of the airborne team stopped to stare down at the two.
"Professor Sinistra kept me for a few minutes. She had to tell me something." Katie tried to say in defense.
Oliver put his hand up to silence her. "Save it for someone who's listening. I want five laps around the pitch, then you can join us." Oliver kicked off once more, leaving an ambivalent Katie below.
Katie ran to the outside of the pitch in silence. What was wrong with him? Surly she hadn't made him this mad.
At the beginning of her final lap, the team began to turn in. The moon began to shine, as the sky grew darker. The twins and Harry walked past Katie with looks of pity on their faces. Angelina had a look of pure disgust as she glanced up at the flying Oliver. "Needs a kick in the family jewels to set him straight. Where does he come off making Katie run FIVE laps?" Angelina demanded of Alicia. Alicia smiled briefly before giving Katie a glance and pushing Angelina towards the locker room.
Katie was beginning to find it extremely difficult to breathe. Her throat was closing up on her. Her lungs were in pain and her heart was throbbing. Nonetheless, she was determined to finish. Katie was halfway into the lap when Oliver landed in front of her.
"Turn in."
"I will. I've only got half a lap to go."
"I said turn in. It's too cold to run." Oliver was serious in both tone and expression.
She'd had enough. "And I said I will, just as soon as I finish." Oliver raised his eyebrows in mild shock. Katie nudged him aside and continued running. He eyed her the rest of the way around the pitch.
After she was done, Katie made straight for the castle while Oliver turned for the locker room.
* * *
The portrait door swung open and Katie sprinted for the stairs. She opened the door to the seventh year dorms and pulled open a drawer. She pulled out a pair of socks and stuck her hand inside one. Her hand came out of the article with something in it. The object in her hand, she made for the bathroom.
Katie came out a few minutes later, the color back in her face and the sweat wiped off her complexion. She pulled off her robes and threw on her messy uniform once more. She hadn't even bothered to untie her tie when she had taken her blouse off. She grabbed a notebook and put it into her bag before returning the object to her sock drawer. Katie took a quick look at her side of the room before heading downstairs.
Dinner would be starting soon and if she expected to eat she had best leave now. The seventh year pulled out a piece pf parchment and scrawled something on it. She headed up to the seventh year boys dorm room. Stopping in front of the door, Katie muttered a spell and attached the parchment to the door before leaving for the Great Hall.
* * *
"You don't think you were the least bit unfair to Katie?" Fred asked as they headed back to their dorms.
"I mean five laps? Honestly, she didn't deserve that much," George said.
Oliver really couldn't answer either of them. He knew he was unfair to her and that he was a jerk as well. The twins continued asking and commenting on the situation on their way back to the castle, to the common room, and to their dorms.
They stopped only when they spotted a note in Katie's hand attached to their door. Oliver ripped the note off and read it to himself. The twins headed inside to their dorms but Oliver just stood there, rereading the note.
After a quick dinner of the Hogwart's cuisine, Katie headed for the Astronomy Tower. Her thighs ached from running and her bag strap dug into her shoulder. Seventh year was beginning to feel harder than she thought. All she really wanted right now was a hot shower. If her muscles ached this much now then tomorrow she was in for it.
Climbing the umpteenth step to the tower, Katie began to doubt whether she'd live to see tomorrow. She entered the only classroom in the tower and made her way to the telescope in the middle. Her Advanced Astronomy class was about to start and she was the first there as always. Katie liked to spend a few minutes alone gazing at the heavens, free from disruptions and noises.
"You really love doing this don't you?" Professor Sinistra asked from behind her desk in the corner.
A bit startled at her voice, Katie hesitantly answered. "Yes, I do."
"I don't think I should say this, but you're my best student and my favorite as well." The middle-aged witch smiled. "As I said earlier before dinner, you're welcome to stay longer tonight if you wish." The Asian professor would have said more but just then Cameron Hughes, a Hufflepuff Chaser, and his friend walked in.
A few moments later, all the students had arrived and were set up for the class. "I'd like you all to identify any three constellations and properly chart them on your star chart. Consider this a pop quiz. Oh, and for extra credit, correctly identify any planets or moons." The room filled with tired groans. Katie just sighed and began her work.
'Merlin, I'm such a bastard!' Oliver kept repeating to himself as he paced the common room. He had to apologize. She was just late because of her advanced class. He was out of line when he spoke to her. He knew she wouldn't want to be late to practice at any cost. She loved Quidditch too. And then he told her to run five laps. Five laps?! Was he insane? Fred and George were right. What was he thinking?
"I was late. You are Captain and my superior. I am a team member. You have every right to punish me for my actions. You told me run five laps, I did. I'll try not to be late in the future. Speaking of late, I've gotta run. My Advanced astronomy class starts soon."
The words of her note kept swimming inside his head. "Her superior? I'm her friend dammit!" His anger for Katie and his anger for himself combined to result in more pacing. What was wrong with him? Did you always get livid with the one's you cared for most? Cared for? Why did those words catch him a bit by surprise?
Oliver stopped pacing. He moved to the couch and sat there staring into the fire. "I'm gonna wait here until she comes back. I've got to talk to her. And I've got to apologize."
"Alright, pass in your star charts and any extra credit you did. I expect these grades to be high. This is an advanced class if any of you feel you cannot handle this then transfer out as soon as possible." Professor Sinistra walked over to her desk and placed a paperweight over the stack of parchment. "Right, well your assignment for our next class is to try and identify all the moons of Jupiter including their locations. I expect most of the moons, not just Io, Europa, and Callisto."
As Katie wrote the assignment down on a piece of parchment, her mind drifted back to practice. Her expression saddened slightly before students began to leave the classroom observatory. Maybe she'd stay later today.
"Oi! Oliver aren't you going to sleep?" Fred asked.
"No, go on up without me. I've got some assignments to finish."
"Ok captain, see you in the morning." Fred bid Oliver goodnight and headed up to the dorms. It was a bit past eleven.
"This is wonderful," Katie said. Professor Sinistra had shown Katie a special telescope of her's.
"Glad you appreciate it. It belonged to my great great great grandfather. It's cast in bronze and it's said to bear the carvings of Galileo." Katie's eyes widened as she began to examine the instrument. "Of course it's nothing compared to the telescope in Dumbledore's office. That's simply magnificent."
Katie continued to admire the telescope before her, every lens, every dial. "Tell me when you're done Katie. I'll be in my office." Professor Sinistra walked over to her desk picked up the stack of papers and headed for the door in the back of the room.
* * *
"So much for the assignment," Katie said to herself. She had not only identified the moons of Jupiter but of Neptune as well. She had Triton and Nereid charted along with Ganymede and the others. Tired with bloodshot eyes, Katie decided to turn in.
She told the professor she was leaving and slowly headed back to the Gryffindor dormitories. She could almost feel the soft covers of her bed as the weight of her bag seemed to drag her down.
"Animagi." The portrait door opened revealing a dimly lit common room. The red and gold in the walls seemed to move as the flames flickered in the fireplace. Katie trudged onward to her dorm when a figure on the couch caught her eye.
His frame was concealed in the shadows and as she moved closer she realized who it was. He was sleeping, soundly at that. His head was in an awkward position and his neck was sure to be stiff in the morning. He had goosebumps on his arms and his shoes were still on. His breathing was rhythmic and Katie could have stood there watching him all night.
"Oliver," she said as she shook her head from side to side. She moved in front of him, flicked her wand, and removed his shoes. Careful not to wake him, she picked up a cushion from under his arm and placed it against the armrest. She muttered a few more words under her breath and tapped her wand causing his head to rest against the cushion. She opened up the folded blanket on the armchair and gently placed it over him.
She smiled at him and turned to leave when she noticed a piece of paper in his hand. She pried his warm fingers open and pulled the parchment out. It was her note. He was waiting up for her. He fell asleep waiting for her.
Katie smiled at the thought before placing the paper on the side table. She picked up her bag and walked towards the stairs. As she passed Oliver's sleeping form, Katie reached out and ruffled the captain's hair. She liked it better that way. . .
* * *
Katie turned her head to the side. Her neck was beginning to feel stiff. Upon doing so, a tiny sliver of light peeked in through her hangings. Light? What time was it exactly?
Katie reluctantly propped herself up and muttered the counter spell to open her hangings. Not wanting any disruptions at night, Katie made her bed both sound proof and Angelina and Alicia-proof. Looking at the wall clock she realized it was seven thirty. She had less than a half an hour to eat and get to class.
'Being late is beginning to become a habit I don't very much like,' Katie told herself as she brushed her teeth and pulled on her uniform. She buttoned up her blouse, tucked it into her gray pleated skirt, and fastened the clasp. She shrugged into her vest and pulled on her socks and shoes.
She tied her hair into a ponytail and put her robes on. Katie moved for the door to perform her mental checklist. 'Uniform on. Due assignments complete and in school bag. Wand in robes. And playbook safely locked in trunk.' Everything was in order. She walked, rather ran, out the door, down the stairs, and to the Great Hall, hoping breakfast was still being served.
As she scurried to breakfast, Katie passed several mirrors. She couldn't help but think her neck looked incredibly bare. She never wore a necklace so what was she possibly missing? It struck her, halfway into a warm pancake.
"Damn! My tie!" Katie dropped her utensils and made a run for the Gryfinndor Tower. If she turned up for potions late AND improperly dressed, only Merlin knew how many points Snape would deduct.
Through the portrait door and up the dorm stairs, Katie dashed. She threw everything into disarray searching for that piece of clothing. "Why do we wear ties?" Katie asked no one in particular as she continued hunting for her blasted tie.
"Finally!" Katie said in victory as she picked up the article. "Now how the bloody hell do you put it on?" Katie fumbled with the tie trying to figure out how one was to possibly wear it. "Where's Angelina when you need her?"
Every morning Angelina would tie Katie's tie for her. She would, of course insist that Katie learn. It's simple, Angelina would say. But Katie knew that the only reason she thought so, was because Fred had taught her how. "Honestly, these things are a bigger mystery than the universe!" a perplexed Katie yelled as she once more ran out the door.
She persistently attempted to properly tie the uncooperative piece of clothing. Upon arriving in the Common Room, Katie realized it was a hopeless venture all together. Her tie remained in a messy knot hanging from her neck as she scampered towards the Common Room exit.
"Plan on going to class like that, do you?" The accent gave away the person behind the voice in an instant.
"Well, I can't bloody tie the thing myself so that would be a yes," she answered.
"It's simple really," he said as he descended the stairs to the boy's dorms.
"Everyone I know says so, but that must be because they know how."
He laughed a bit before moving closer to her. "Here, I'll show you." He walked towards her and stopped when he was about a foot away from her face.
"See, you take the larger half, wrap it around the smaller half." He demonstrated with her tie as he spoke. "Then you bring it back up through the hole-" She could feel his warm breath on her neck as he spoke. "And then you stick the end back through here." He finished and tightened the tie around her neck. "See, it's as simple as that."
'Simple? Right, maybe if I'd paid attention to what you were saying then it would be simple,' Katie mentally spoke.
"Think you got it?" he asked. Katie didn't reply. "Here, try tying mine," he said.
"No, it's okay Oliver. I'll be late and so will you. I don't wanna make you late."
"Not a problem Kate, besides I've gotta talk to you." His voice was sincere with concern.
"Erm, alright," she said as she picked up the two ends of his scarlet and gold tie.
"I read your note Katie."
She took in a breath and continued with the tie.
"I don't agree with it you know."
He couldn't still be mad with her. She had apologized after all.
"I'm not your superior Katie. I'm your friend." His hands reached up, grasped hers, and stopped her from further trying to tie his tie.
"I had no right to make you run that much in the cold Kate. I'm sorry."
"Oliver you're the Gryfinndor Quidditch Captain. I'm a team member. You've superiority over me and like I said, I was late. I deserved what I got and I wasn't about to back down after running four and a half laps. In a way, I'm glad you made me run those laps. Gave me time to think about some plays we could use. I could show you later on. They're-"
He placed a finger to her lips to silence her. "Katie listen to me." His voice was gentle yet firm. "I was a jerk, a prick. I'm sorry and I don't expect you to forgive me like that but still. I know I'm your Captain, but I'm your friend first."
Her eyes were fixated on his as he spoke. "You know, I waited for you yesterday but I think I fell asleep," he said as he rubbed the back of his neck.
"I saw you. You shouldn't have bothered staying up like that."
"I just couldn't let you think I was mad at you. Katie you mean a lot to me."
"It's okay Captain. Nothing life threatening," she smiled.
"Really, you forgive me? Just like that?"
"Yes I forgive you, now let's go to our classes before we get a detention," she said as she stepped towards the door. "Oh and thanks for tying my tie. I'm sorry I couldn't do yours. I still don't get it."
"I can still teach you again if you like," he offered as the two walked towards the west wing.
"Thanks, but I don't wanna take too much of your time," she said as they arrived in front of the dungeons.
"Oh, I've got plenty of time for you Kates," he said as he left her outside the dungeon gates, but not before giving her a quick kiss on the cheek.
_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_
Well, there's chapter eight. Hope you enjoyed it. I liked writing every bit of it. Now I don't know about you, but Oliver can teach me how to tie a tie any day of the week. Oh how many of you noticed something about the beginning of the chapter. Seen Ferris Bueller's Dayoff? There's a clue... Now if you're wondering about Flint, all will be disclosed soon. Soon-what a word. Ok I thank all my reviewers; I love you guys!!! I'll update as soon as My brain thinks up some interesting reading material for you guys. Tell me if my writing's getting better or worse. Remember the power is yours! Aw I love Captain Planet. Till next chapter- ~itefaq
Alright, so last chapter. I was typing it up and thinking about what exactly I wanted Oliver and Katie to do. So then I thought back to my childhood. We all caught fireflies when we were little-at least everyone I know did. It's like an innocent little game (I know it's cruel to catch bugs and keep them contained but I did release them) that all little kids play. I just wanted to share some info 'bout how close those two were. I know many of you-ok most of you- are eager to see Oliver and Katie "together". I believe even a kiss between the two would suffice but alas, I cannot write no such thing. I know, I know-why?
Well, such moments should be special and ya know, significant. I just think if I were to write that now it would be rushed. Yeah, yeah they've been friends for 9 and some odd years but still- give it time. I think love is something that just happens not something that can be done. You have to go beyond a person's looks and much deeper into him/her. There's always more than meets the eye.
Did you know the divorce rate in America is over 50%? Now that's just sad and disappointing. Marriage is becoming a big joke in this country. I don't see it fit to divorce unless there is harassment involved or any other major life-damaging problem. Divorce has become a convenience to many and it takes away from the meaning of love. Love is such a strong word yet it has a myriad of meanings. One can have love for their pet, family, friends, etc. I admire all those couples that are working through their problems for the sake of their relationship, their love. I am not saying divorced couples are bad people- I just believe the rate should be decreasing rather than increasing.
These are all just my personal opinions. You are free to brush them aside or even disagree with them. I did not mean to offend anyone or their loved ones. If I have I am extremely sorry. I've just been thinking about the issue of "love" lately and my minds swimming with thoughts. I truly believe that someone somewhere is made for you. You just gotta look harder. That someone may be on the concession stand, the tollbooth, the bus stop, or even your next-door neighbor. (hee, hee) : ) All I'm saying is love is something extraordinary and we as people are blessed to feel such an emotion/feeling. Pandora may have unleashed some of the more shameful and hurtful emotions but nothing can compete with love.
Wow, I feel like Microsoft Word was my pensive. I am glad I shared my thoughts with you. If you read any of it, feel free to comment on it. Writing this story just got me thinking. Okay so before I put in writing any more of my thoughts I present to you Chapter 8 of Right In Front of Your Eyes.
~Right In Front of Eyes~
Disclaimer: This is getting really annoying. It should just be plain obvious by now. Duh!
Chapter 8- A Deeper Mystery Than the Universe
"Can anyone tell me?" the ghost professor asked. "Does anyone know the name of the legendary sword that Arthur pulled out of a stone? Anyone? Anyone? Miss Lackley? No? Anyone?"
It was another History of Magic class. As exciting as ever, Professor Binns resorted to volunteering people for answering his questions. The Hufflepuffs in the class were talking about the Quidditch match this weekend between them and the Ravenclaws. A few students were passing notes, while others were lazily sitting at their desks staring straight ahead.
As Binns continued to call out names randomly, Katie took a trip down memory lane. She was four and her grandfather had just bought her a toy broom. Her mom wouldn't let her have it, saying it was too dangerous for her. A four year-old Katie began to throw a tantrum. Her mum paid no attention to Katie's fit and placed the broom on a high shelf.
Waiting for her mother to leave the room, the young girl busied herself with a few blocks. After a few minutes, her mother left for the kitchen and Katie took her chance. She pushed a chair under the shelf and placed a few heavy spell books on top. Magic Made Manageable, Charms and Spells for Everyday, and Tidy Tips boosted little Katie so the tips of her fingers just touched her broom. On tiptoe, Katie grasped her broom and turned to climb down when she lost her balance. She had taken a nasty fall and had grazed her back on the corner of the coffee table.
"Mr. Brent, you must know. No? Honestly!"
Katie smiled, she loved that toy broom. The fall was worth it and the scar it left was too. Katie rubbed the spot behind her shoulder remembering where the corner of the table had made contact with her.
"Miss Bell, why don't you give us the answer since you find the situation amusing."
Katie quickly wiped the smile off her face. Binns wasn't someone, er some ghost, she wanted to spend detention with. "Erm could you repeat the question sir?"
With an exasperated look on his transparent face, Binns recurred the question.
"The name of the sword was Excalibur. Legend had it that whoever pulled the sword out of the stone would become King and save England and lead it to prosperity."
"Well done Miss Bell, five points to Gryffindor. Now if you'd all turn to page 47 of your texts you will read what some venerable wizards have to say about this topic."
* * *
"Uh, food!" Katie made for the breadbasket and attacked a soft roll.
"Wow Katie, I've never seen you eat so fast," Angelina commented as Katie continued to shove food into her mouth in a most un-lady-like fashion.
"So hungwy. Skipped bwekfast," Katie blurted out just as Oliver sat down.
"Practice tonight. Everyone coming, right?"
"Now Oliver, you know we wouldn't miss practice for the world," George said.
"Yes, we just love freezing our arses off all for the love of the game," Fred added.
"Great! I'm glad to hear you feel the same way as me," Oliver spoke. Honestly, at times it was difficult to determine whether Oliver was as dense as he sounded or just too busied with Quidditch.
"You coming Kates?"
Katie replied with a nod as her arm went for the pumpkin juice.
"Whoa Katie, pace yourself. I don't want you to get too heavy for the broom. We are going to be flying."
Katie shot Oliver a glare. She knew he was just teasing. "I haven't eaten all day. Is it wrong to feed myself so I don't die of malnutrition?"
Oliver thought it best not to answer. After a brief meal he headed back to his afternoon classes. "See you all at practice."
* * *
"Pureblood," said a husky voice. An iron door slowly swung open from its concealed closed state allowing him into the room. He walked over to the unlit fireplace and stood staring at the musty brick wall. In a fit of anger he picked up the nearest object, a small glass sphere-possibly a Rememberall, and hurled it at the wall. The fragile glass ball shattered to pieces upon impact. He paced, the pieces of glass crunching beneath his weight.
He stopped shortly after and then turned for the stairs leading to the dormitories. "Diggory thinks he can prove it's me. What could he possibly have to pin this on me?" The burly figure made its way up the stairs, muttering further to himself.
* * *
A chill wind rustled the leaves of the Forbidden Forest. A half a dozen scarlet clad figures made their way onto the Quidditch pitch.
"Where in blooming hell is Katie?" asked a clearly infuriated Oliver.
"Calm yourself mate, she's probably running a bit late. In fact, I bet she's cursing herself for being late."
"Yeah, and I know she said she'd be here when I left the dorms," Alicia added after George.
"She should be here by now!"
"Well, just wait a few minutes longer, she'll co-"
Oliver cut Angelina off. "We're not waiting anymore. Mount your brooms. I'm releasing the balls."
The five did not wish to tick Oliver off any more than he was. Even Harry knew better. The only thing-rather one-who could make his Captain this angry was Katie. Harry knew that, the team knew that. "Best stay clear of Oliver when Katie gets here," Harry told himself as he kicked off.
"Dear Merlin! Where the hell is my other armguard?" Katie was frantically searching for her missing piece of equipment. "I'm gonna be so late for practice. He'll have probably started without me." She checked her trunk once more before stopping to think. Katie figured she had left the guard in the locker room and dashed from her dorm. The frigid autumn air stung her unprotected face as she ran towards the lockers.
She pulled open the small compartment, rummaged through its contents and pulled out a beaten, worn armguard. Fastening it to her arm as she ran out of the room, Katie began to pant. She hurried over to the middle of the pitch, mounted her broom, and was about to kick off when a voice stopped her from doing so.
"Think it's about time you joined us Bell?" Oliver asked as he dismounted his broom.
He had used her last name. That took a jab at Katie. They usually used each other's surnames when poking fun but now he seemed far from the playful mood.
"I was looking for my armguard and well. . ." her voice trailed off.
"It takes you a half an hour to find one piece of equipment? Next time just come without it!" he yelled. The rest of the airborne team stopped to stare down at the two.
"Professor Sinistra kept me for a few minutes. She had to tell me something." Katie tried to say in defense.
Oliver put his hand up to silence her. "Save it for someone who's listening. I want five laps around the pitch, then you can join us." Oliver kicked off once more, leaving an ambivalent Katie below.
Katie ran to the outside of the pitch in silence. What was wrong with him? Surly she hadn't made him this mad.
At the beginning of her final lap, the team began to turn in. The moon began to shine, as the sky grew darker. The twins and Harry walked past Katie with looks of pity on their faces. Angelina had a look of pure disgust as she glanced up at the flying Oliver. "Needs a kick in the family jewels to set him straight. Where does he come off making Katie run FIVE laps?" Angelina demanded of Alicia. Alicia smiled briefly before giving Katie a glance and pushing Angelina towards the locker room.
Katie was beginning to find it extremely difficult to breathe. Her throat was closing up on her. Her lungs were in pain and her heart was throbbing. Nonetheless, she was determined to finish. Katie was halfway into the lap when Oliver landed in front of her.
"Turn in."
"I will. I've only got half a lap to go."
"I said turn in. It's too cold to run." Oliver was serious in both tone and expression.
She'd had enough. "And I said I will, just as soon as I finish." Oliver raised his eyebrows in mild shock. Katie nudged him aside and continued running. He eyed her the rest of the way around the pitch.
After she was done, Katie made straight for the castle while Oliver turned for the locker room.
* * *
The portrait door swung open and Katie sprinted for the stairs. She opened the door to the seventh year dorms and pulled open a drawer. She pulled out a pair of socks and stuck her hand inside one. Her hand came out of the article with something in it. The object in her hand, she made for the bathroom.
Katie came out a few minutes later, the color back in her face and the sweat wiped off her complexion. She pulled off her robes and threw on her messy uniform once more. She hadn't even bothered to untie her tie when she had taken her blouse off. She grabbed a notebook and put it into her bag before returning the object to her sock drawer. Katie took a quick look at her side of the room before heading downstairs.
Dinner would be starting soon and if she expected to eat she had best leave now. The seventh year pulled out a piece pf parchment and scrawled something on it. She headed up to the seventh year boys dorm room. Stopping in front of the door, Katie muttered a spell and attached the parchment to the door before leaving for the Great Hall.
* * *
"You don't think you were the least bit unfair to Katie?" Fred asked as they headed back to their dorms.
"I mean five laps? Honestly, she didn't deserve that much," George said.
Oliver really couldn't answer either of them. He knew he was unfair to her and that he was a jerk as well. The twins continued asking and commenting on the situation on their way back to the castle, to the common room, and to their dorms.
They stopped only when they spotted a note in Katie's hand attached to their door. Oliver ripped the note off and read it to himself. The twins headed inside to their dorms but Oliver just stood there, rereading the note.
After a quick dinner of the Hogwart's cuisine, Katie headed for the Astronomy Tower. Her thighs ached from running and her bag strap dug into her shoulder. Seventh year was beginning to feel harder than she thought. All she really wanted right now was a hot shower. If her muscles ached this much now then tomorrow she was in for it.
Climbing the umpteenth step to the tower, Katie began to doubt whether she'd live to see tomorrow. She entered the only classroom in the tower and made her way to the telescope in the middle. Her Advanced Astronomy class was about to start and she was the first there as always. Katie liked to spend a few minutes alone gazing at the heavens, free from disruptions and noises.
"You really love doing this don't you?" Professor Sinistra asked from behind her desk in the corner.
A bit startled at her voice, Katie hesitantly answered. "Yes, I do."
"I don't think I should say this, but you're my best student and my favorite as well." The middle-aged witch smiled. "As I said earlier before dinner, you're welcome to stay longer tonight if you wish." The Asian professor would have said more but just then Cameron Hughes, a Hufflepuff Chaser, and his friend walked in.
A few moments later, all the students had arrived and were set up for the class. "I'd like you all to identify any three constellations and properly chart them on your star chart. Consider this a pop quiz. Oh, and for extra credit, correctly identify any planets or moons." The room filled with tired groans. Katie just sighed and began her work.
'Merlin, I'm such a bastard!' Oliver kept repeating to himself as he paced the common room. He had to apologize. She was just late because of her advanced class. He was out of line when he spoke to her. He knew she wouldn't want to be late to practice at any cost. She loved Quidditch too. And then he told her to run five laps. Five laps?! Was he insane? Fred and George were right. What was he thinking?
"I was late. You are Captain and my superior. I am a team member. You have every right to punish me for my actions. You told me run five laps, I did. I'll try not to be late in the future. Speaking of late, I've gotta run. My Advanced astronomy class starts soon."
The words of her note kept swimming inside his head. "Her superior? I'm her friend dammit!" His anger for Katie and his anger for himself combined to result in more pacing. What was wrong with him? Did you always get livid with the one's you cared for most? Cared for? Why did those words catch him a bit by surprise?
Oliver stopped pacing. He moved to the couch and sat there staring into the fire. "I'm gonna wait here until she comes back. I've got to talk to her. And I've got to apologize."
"Alright, pass in your star charts and any extra credit you did. I expect these grades to be high. This is an advanced class if any of you feel you cannot handle this then transfer out as soon as possible." Professor Sinistra walked over to her desk and placed a paperweight over the stack of parchment. "Right, well your assignment for our next class is to try and identify all the moons of Jupiter including their locations. I expect most of the moons, not just Io, Europa, and Callisto."
As Katie wrote the assignment down on a piece of parchment, her mind drifted back to practice. Her expression saddened slightly before students began to leave the classroom observatory. Maybe she'd stay later today.
"Oi! Oliver aren't you going to sleep?" Fred asked.
"No, go on up without me. I've got some assignments to finish."
"Ok captain, see you in the morning." Fred bid Oliver goodnight and headed up to the dorms. It was a bit past eleven.
"This is wonderful," Katie said. Professor Sinistra had shown Katie a special telescope of her's.
"Glad you appreciate it. It belonged to my great great great grandfather. It's cast in bronze and it's said to bear the carvings of Galileo." Katie's eyes widened as she began to examine the instrument. "Of course it's nothing compared to the telescope in Dumbledore's office. That's simply magnificent."
Katie continued to admire the telescope before her, every lens, every dial. "Tell me when you're done Katie. I'll be in my office." Professor Sinistra walked over to her desk picked up the stack of papers and headed for the door in the back of the room.
* * *
"So much for the assignment," Katie said to herself. She had not only identified the moons of Jupiter but of Neptune as well. She had Triton and Nereid charted along with Ganymede and the others. Tired with bloodshot eyes, Katie decided to turn in.
She told the professor she was leaving and slowly headed back to the Gryffindor dormitories. She could almost feel the soft covers of her bed as the weight of her bag seemed to drag her down.
"Animagi." The portrait door opened revealing a dimly lit common room. The red and gold in the walls seemed to move as the flames flickered in the fireplace. Katie trudged onward to her dorm when a figure on the couch caught her eye.
His frame was concealed in the shadows and as she moved closer she realized who it was. He was sleeping, soundly at that. His head was in an awkward position and his neck was sure to be stiff in the morning. He had goosebumps on his arms and his shoes were still on. His breathing was rhythmic and Katie could have stood there watching him all night.
"Oliver," she said as she shook her head from side to side. She moved in front of him, flicked her wand, and removed his shoes. Careful not to wake him, she picked up a cushion from under his arm and placed it against the armrest. She muttered a few more words under her breath and tapped her wand causing his head to rest against the cushion. She opened up the folded blanket on the armchair and gently placed it over him.
She smiled at him and turned to leave when she noticed a piece of paper in his hand. She pried his warm fingers open and pulled the parchment out. It was her note. He was waiting up for her. He fell asleep waiting for her.
Katie smiled at the thought before placing the paper on the side table. She picked up her bag and walked towards the stairs. As she passed Oliver's sleeping form, Katie reached out and ruffled the captain's hair. She liked it better that way. . .
* * *
Katie turned her head to the side. Her neck was beginning to feel stiff. Upon doing so, a tiny sliver of light peeked in through her hangings. Light? What time was it exactly?
Katie reluctantly propped herself up and muttered the counter spell to open her hangings. Not wanting any disruptions at night, Katie made her bed both sound proof and Angelina and Alicia-proof. Looking at the wall clock she realized it was seven thirty. She had less than a half an hour to eat and get to class.
'Being late is beginning to become a habit I don't very much like,' Katie told herself as she brushed her teeth and pulled on her uniform. She buttoned up her blouse, tucked it into her gray pleated skirt, and fastened the clasp. She shrugged into her vest and pulled on her socks and shoes.
She tied her hair into a ponytail and put her robes on. Katie moved for the door to perform her mental checklist. 'Uniform on. Due assignments complete and in school bag. Wand in robes. And playbook safely locked in trunk.' Everything was in order. She walked, rather ran, out the door, down the stairs, and to the Great Hall, hoping breakfast was still being served.
As she scurried to breakfast, Katie passed several mirrors. She couldn't help but think her neck looked incredibly bare. She never wore a necklace so what was she possibly missing? It struck her, halfway into a warm pancake.
"Damn! My tie!" Katie dropped her utensils and made a run for the Gryfinndor Tower. If she turned up for potions late AND improperly dressed, only Merlin knew how many points Snape would deduct.
Through the portrait door and up the dorm stairs, Katie dashed. She threw everything into disarray searching for that piece of clothing. "Why do we wear ties?" Katie asked no one in particular as she continued hunting for her blasted tie.
"Finally!" Katie said in victory as she picked up the article. "Now how the bloody hell do you put it on?" Katie fumbled with the tie trying to figure out how one was to possibly wear it. "Where's Angelina when you need her?"
Every morning Angelina would tie Katie's tie for her. She would, of course insist that Katie learn. It's simple, Angelina would say. But Katie knew that the only reason she thought so, was because Fred had taught her how. "Honestly, these things are a bigger mystery than the universe!" a perplexed Katie yelled as she once more ran out the door.
She persistently attempted to properly tie the uncooperative piece of clothing. Upon arriving in the Common Room, Katie realized it was a hopeless venture all together. Her tie remained in a messy knot hanging from her neck as she scampered towards the Common Room exit.
"Plan on going to class like that, do you?" The accent gave away the person behind the voice in an instant.
"Well, I can't bloody tie the thing myself so that would be a yes," she answered.
"It's simple really," he said as he descended the stairs to the boy's dorms.
"Everyone I know says so, but that must be because they know how."
He laughed a bit before moving closer to her. "Here, I'll show you." He walked towards her and stopped when he was about a foot away from her face.
"See, you take the larger half, wrap it around the smaller half." He demonstrated with her tie as he spoke. "Then you bring it back up through the hole-" She could feel his warm breath on her neck as he spoke. "And then you stick the end back through here." He finished and tightened the tie around her neck. "See, it's as simple as that."
'Simple? Right, maybe if I'd paid attention to what you were saying then it would be simple,' Katie mentally spoke.
"Think you got it?" he asked. Katie didn't reply. "Here, try tying mine," he said.
"No, it's okay Oliver. I'll be late and so will you. I don't wanna make you late."
"Not a problem Kate, besides I've gotta talk to you." His voice was sincere with concern.
"Erm, alright," she said as she picked up the two ends of his scarlet and gold tie.
"I read your note Katie."
She took in a breath and continued with the tie.
"I don't agree with it you know."
He couldn't still be mad with her. She had apologized after all.
"I'm not your superior Katie. I'm your friend." His hands reached up, grasped hers, and stopped her from further trying to tie his tie.
"I had no right to make you run that much in the cold Kate. I'm sorry."
"Oliver you're the Gryfinndor Quidditch Captain. I'm a team member. You've superiority over me and like I said, I was late. I deserved what I got and I wasn't about to back down after running four and a half laps. In a way, I'm glad you made me run those laps. Gave me time to think about some plays we could use. I could show you later on. They're-"
He placed a finger to her lips to silence her. "Katie listen to me." His voice was gentle yet firm. "I was a jerk, a prick. I'm sorry and I don't expect you to forgive me like that but still. I know I'm your Captain, but I'm your friend first."
Her eyes were fixated on his as he spoke. "You know, I waited for you yesterday but I think I fell asleep," he said as he rubbed the back of his neck.
"I saw you. You shouldn't have bothered staying up like that."
"I just couldn't let you think I was mad at you. Katie you mean a lot to me."
"It's okay Captain. Nothing life threatening," she smiled.
"Really, you forgive me? Just like that?"
"Yes I forgive you, now let's go to our classes before we get a detention," she said as she stepped towards the door. "Oh and thanks for tying my tie. I'm sorry I couldn't do yours. I still don't get it."
"I can still teach you again if you like," he offered as the two walked towards the west wing.
"Thanks, but I don't wanna take too much of your time," she said as they arrived in front of the dungeons.
"Oh, I've got plenty of time for you Kates," he said as he left her outside the dungeon gates, but not before giving her a quick kiss on the cheek.
_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_
Well, there's chapter eight. Hope you enjoyed it. I liked writing every bit of it. Now I don't know about you, but Oliver can teach me how to tie a tie any day of the week. Oh how many of you noticed something about the beginning of the chapter. Seen Ferris Bueller's Dayoff? There's a clue... Now if you're wondering about Flint, all will be disclosed soon. Soon-what a word. Ok I thank all my reviewers; I love you guys!!! I'll update as soon as My brain thinks up some interesting reading material for you guys. Tell me if my writing's getting better or worse. Remember the power is yours! Aw I love Captain Planet. Till next chapter- ~itefaq