Ad Hominem
Chapter 6-Amicus Curiae (Still day III)
Most of the school was already in the great hall. A few heads turned to me as I came in, but George didn't seem to be here. Probably with McGonigal or Dumbledore. Lee waved and I sat next to him when I reached our table.
"Did you hear? Well, of course you did, I mean, he's your brother right?" Lee rambled excitedly.
"About George totally kicking Slytherin ass?" I asked while donning my best fake smile.
"It was amazing-Fred, what happened?"
"Pardon? Oh! It's nothing, George and I were just messing around and he didn't realize how hard he hit me. So what happened with the fight?"
"It was amazing. A lot of us saw it, myself included. George just went crazy. No one knows why it was Malfoy though. We thought maybe you did."
"No, sorry mate. Where is George anyway?"
"With McGonigal discussing punishment. Probably motives as well." Oh god, I hope George doesn't tell anyone why he did this.
"The fight...what did it look like?" I asked. Lee closed his eyes in an expression of bliss.
"You should have seen it. George came bounding down the stairs and when he reached the bottom he looked around frantically with a manic glint in his eye. There were a huge group of students just hanging around outside waiting for lunch to start. A couple of us looked at him, but some didn't notice. His eyes finally rested on one spot-Malfoy. We turned to look at him and by the time we had looked from George to Malfoy, George was on him. Malfoy didn't even know what hit him. George just went crazy-he looked possessed or something. He would occasionally say things to Malfoy, but we couldn't hear them. Even right in front I couldn't. Malfoy only hit him a couple times around the face, really no contest at all. Malfoy finally lost consciousness and we went into the hall. Apparently George kept beating him though, even after he was unconscious! I would have loved to see that. Well, then the teachers came and it was all over." I stared at Lee in horror as he finished.
"The whole school? George did that to him in front of the whole school?" My blood felt like mercury beneath my skin, and my knuckles were turning white. Lee looked at me with confused concern.
"Are you okay Fred? I mean, I thought you'd be happier about this." I realized how close I was to real trouble and forced myself to calm down.
"I meant that he wasn't considerate enough to wake me first, I would have loved to see it, maybe even help." I flinched at my words, even though I knew they weren't true. Lee clapped a hand on my shoulder.
"There's my guy! I wanted to join too, but George didn't look like he wanted the help, or needed it for that matter." Lee looked around to the Slytherin table after he spoke.
"I can't wait to congratulate him tonight. Think he'll be back in the dorm?" I asked.
"They have to let him sleep right?" I shrugged my shoulders in reply. "How come those two idiots didn't help Malfoy? Those...Crabbe and Goyle right?" Lee asked.
"Don't be stupid, they just follow orders, if that. They weren't going to get involved without more of a prompt. Plus, Slytherins are different than us. Friends are different for them." Lee eyed me suspiciously. "This lamb is delicious!" I closed our conversation with another bite of lamb and Lee turned to his plate. Before Lee could question me further Dumbledore stood and asked for our attention.
"I just wanted to thank you all for cooperating with us today. We have of course finished searching the grounds, and have deemed the school perfectly safe. Have a good weekend everyone." He sat back down and a few people left while many stayed behind to finish off as much dessert as possible. I left of course, and had to try really hard not to stop by the hospital wing, even after what he said. It didn't hurt as much as he wanted it to because I know he didn't mean it. Being lied to did hurt though. How did we get here? How the fuck did this happen? When did I start letting Malfoy affect me like this? Bastard. Yet I'm still angry at George. Blindingly angry in fact. I hope he shows up. Before I knew it I was in the common room. I sat by the fire for a little while and was joined by Katie. She sat quietly for a minute then spoke.
"Why did he do it Fred? What was so important that made him choose detention over me? And he hit you. What's going on?" She sounded desperate, and I wanted to help, really I did, but what could I say?
"Katie...I don't know what to tell you. I wish I could tell you the truth, but you wouldn't understand, and trust me, you don't really want to hear it. Nothing I tell you will make it better. George was angry at me, and Malfoy. Mostly me, and he took it out on him. You're the last person he meant to hurt Katie. I swear."
"Why was he angry at you? Or Malfoy? What does Malfoy have to do with any of this?"
"I can't tell you, I'm sorry." She slammed her hands down on her knees, startling me.
"That's not good enough Fred! (Direct shout out to Will Turner when he wants to go look for Elizabeth, didn't even realize I had written it like that until I went to type it) I want to know why he felt it more beneficial and satisfying to beat a stranger to a pulp over you; than spend time with his girlfriend! What could have made him that mad?!"
"You really want to know Katie?!"
"Yes!" She screeched, and the entire common room was trying to pretend they weren't listening.
"Then fucking ask him!" I stood up and left the common room. I couldn't go back to the dorm because I would inevitably have to face Lee. There was no way in hell I could go back to the hospital wing so I headed outside. The moon was in its second day of perfect light and shape. I sat on the steps and stared at the full moon; the craters, the shadows, the light. It looked so complicated, and it reminded me of him. Damn! I just can't get away from him can I? I guess Malfoy will miss a few days of running. He's probably hurting over that one. I decided to take a walk to ease my tension. I didn't really want to run-it didn't feel right somehow. I don't think I've ever walked the grounds at night alone before now. The lake was beautiful with the moon's reflection, and the lights in the castle twinkled warmly against the inky black sky. My eyes fell on one lighted window-the hospital wing. Was he awake? Was he getting better? What was he thinking about? If I went back there now, and anyone found me...I shuddered. I wonder if George is back yet. What will I say to him? 'Hey George, will you hold still while I let out some anger?' Yeah right. I'm still too mad at him to talk to him. I sat down under one of the huge trees near the lake and stared out into the night. My stomach growled in response to my lack of appetite all day. I stood up and decided to pay the house elves a visit. I trudged through the corridors aimlessly, and was surprised to find them completely deserted save for a few other students. Had I missed something? Where is everyone? I reached the kitchen and was almost run over by elves holding trays of food.
"Master Wheezy!"
"Hello Dobby. How are your socks coming along?"
"Very well, thank you sir!" He squeaked, happy to talk about his favorite topic.
"Dobby, are the teachers having a meeting or something? I didn't see anyone when I was coming here."
"Yes they are in the Great Hall talking." He gestured to the table under the staff table that they were filling with drinks and some food.
"Thank you." I took some food from one of the trays they were holding and walked out. Common room or hospital wing? Common room or hospital wing? Common-oh fuck it. I turned into the hospital wing as I reached it. Madam Pomfrey appeared to be at the meeting as well, but how could she have left Malfoy? Maybe he was doing better. I silently shut the door behind me. I looked to Malfoy's bed, he was indeed still in it, and was looking slightly better.
"I thought I'd find you here." I jumped into the air as a voice rang out behind me.
"George." I was too angry, too angry! This can't happen here, not near Malfoy! Why wasn't he in detention?
"Aww, were you bringing him food? How touching." He sneered, managing to sound amazingly like Malfoy.
"Actually the food is for me. I don't think he can eat anyway. I didn't feel like going to the common room. Why aren't you in detention?"
"Tomorrow. Well obviously, that's why I came here to find you. Do you want to hear about it? It was beautiful." He closed his eyes in a perfect imitation of Lee at dinner.
"I've heard it thank you." I answered stiffly.
"Not from a first-hand point of view though." He hopped off the bed he was sitting on and walked towards me. I flinched, not wanting to hear this for fear of my anger. "As soon as he saw me his expression changed. Like an owl realizing it has to fly through a snow storm. 'How is it he is so good at telling us apart?' I wonder. I jump him and he doesn't fight back more than a first year could. I hiss things in his ear, things only he can hear. 'Isn't this better than fucking my brother?' 'I bet you'd rather this were Fred, because you'd probably be getting off on it like before.' I congratulated him on not complaining, but told him that only a fairy wouldn't fight back at all." A grin played on his George's features. It sickened me because I know what that specific grin feels like and generally means. "He tried a few hits after that one, didn't go so well though. I told him that if he ever came near you again, I'd finish what I started. People started to file in to lunch, but he was kind enough to stay with me. He was already unconscious, but I couldn't help myself. I kicked him a few times for good measure-I knew the teachers were on there way. Oh! I almost forgot-I managed to grab you a few souvenirs." He held out his hand, fist closed, waiting for mine. I hesitantly put out my hand. This was probably a really bad idea as I was already mad enough to kill George. I stared at the contents of my hand. George was grinning triumphantly. A mass of silver-blonde hair, some shreds of clothing-and- two of Malfoy's teeth. I couldn't see, couldn't think. My anger consumed me, and I forced it down long enough to place my 'souvenirs' on the table near Malfoy's bed before I attacked George. He wasn't surprised, but wasn't completely prepared either. On a normal day, George may have stood a chance, but today it was hopeless. My rage had turned me into an animal, and he would soon look like Malfoy.
"Fred." I froze. George and I turned to look at Malfoy. He was awake and looking at us. The swelling in his eyes had gone down so he could actually see us. "Please don't do this."
"But...how can you say that? After what he did to you?" George looked from Malfoy to me, but I couldn't read his expression.
"Because you're better than him. Don't stoop to his level Fred, especially not for me. I'm not worth it. Besides, I'm not sharing my peace and quiet here with him." I stared down at George, slightly limp in my hands. George looked at me, completely puzzled. He couldn't read between the lines of what Malfoy had said so he didn't completely understand. Malfoy actually cared and didn't want me in trouble. I blinked at my realization. This was also the first time George had heard Malfoy and I talk to each other, and he seemed to be trying to figure out what was between us. I let him go.
"He's right George. I'm not going to become you. I hope you realize what you've done, how you've contributed to the persecution of gays everywhere. You said you were fine with this George. Was that all a lie?"
"No! I am fine with it. I'm just not fine with him! I told you that!"
"George, Malfoy and I are not together! I told you that. He's fifteen for god's sake! We both needed someone to talk to-I can't believe I'm explaining this to you again. George, please. I'm tired of fighting with you. It hurts, and I know you feel it too. I really want you to be okay with this, with me, with my choices. That means not suspecting every guy I ever talk to of shagging me when you're not looking! You probably won't like all the guys I date all the time, but whose to say I'll like all the girls you date? Sure, Katie's a great find, but how much longer will you have her? Do you even know what you did to her?"
"Katie? Is she alright? What happened?" George was suddenly concerned.
"You see? That concern for your girlfriend. I will have the same for my boyfriend someday. Please George, I really need your support in this." George looked like he was waging a battle with himself. He spoke finally.
"So, you're saying that you love him?"
"George! This isn't about him! This is about me!"
"I'm fine with you liking guys. I told you. I'll bless you in this. I'll support you and be there whenever you need it. If he was anyone else- "
"Listen. Listen well. For the last time. Malfoy is not my lover. He's my friend! No more so than Lee or Harry! Please tell me you understand!" Again George looked like he was battling against himself. We had been going in circles with our speech, and he knew it. After about a minute he sighed.
"I believe you." He stood up and looked at me. I sighed in thanks. We embraced as he spoke. "I'm so sorry. I just-I couldn't understand why you felt like you could talk to him more than me. I'm sorry."
"Thank you. Go to Katie." He stepped back, smiled, and nodded. "You're completely forgiven." He smiled broadly at me, and I at him.
"Thank you. Talk with your friend. And again-I'm sorry." He hurried out to Katie, and I turned to Malfoy.
"I'm so glad that's over." I sat down next to him.
"Did you mean all you said?" He slowly turned and looked at me.
"I think so." I said, trying to remember everything I had said. "Maybe not."
"Am I really just another Harry Potter to you?" He looked angry.
"What? No, of course not. You're more than Lee or Harry to me. Yes, you're my friend, but not in the same way they are."
"In what way then?" He asked bitterly.
"I guess-to spend my especially lonely hours with. Wow that sounded stupid. Look, you know things about me and understand them like they never could. I'll stay with you, whether you like it or not."
"You said I was so mature, yet you said to George that I was only fifteen in such a manner..."
"I told you I didn't mean all of it. You are more..."
"-Don't. You don't...why don't you eat that food you brought? I know you're hungry." I grinned at him and went to the food I brought. Upon sitting back down with it I spoke.
"I'm sorry. About the things he said." His eyes clouded.
"Only I knew them, and I didn't mind. It was nice to hear your name during...it reminded me why it was happening. Why I was letting it happen." I stared at him, mouth open, waiting for the food in my hand that wouldn't come. He reached over and shut my mouth. "See? I'm getting better."
"He knocked out your teeth. He kept them to make me mad. I didn't know he was capable."
"I'm glad, maybe Pomfrey can put them back." He laughed softly.
"Why didn't you fight back?"
"Pardon? Oh, it just seemed like a waste. He would have beat me in the end anyway, and the more I resisted the worse it would have been. I'm not strong enough to take you, so I figured I wasn't strong enough to take him."
"How can you tell us apart anyway?" He sighed at my question.
"Do I really need to answer that?"
"What? I was just wondering. So many people can't. Even before we started talking you could tell us apart."
"Your eyes."
"What? What about them? I think our eyes look exactly-"
"-the eyes. Just...take my word for it Fred." I stared at him in amazement then went back to my food.
"I was outside for a little while tonight. The moon is full. It's beautiful."
"And it reminded you of me." He finished.
"What?" My eyes flew to his.
"Why else would you have brought it up? Come on, after what we said after breakfast, before you left. You tried to leave me wanting to know more, but you only pissed yourself off."
"Enough!" I yelled, startling even myself.
"What?" He blinked in surprise.
"I don't want to hear it! Don't analyze. Just let it be. I told you I wanted to stay here, but I don't want to listen to you pick apart and label everything we've ever said to each other!"
"Or you're just scared to hear it." He chided.
"Unlikely. Just don't cheapen what we have."
"What do we have Fred?"
"Companionship Draco. Let it be." He glared at me after I spoke, but remained silent and contemplative.
"Tell me about your first time." He was quiet, seemingly afraid I would say no. I smiled at him.
"Alright. But it wasn't anything beautiful or fairytale-like so don't expect it." He laughed at me.
"Come on. First times with a member of the same sex never are." He rolled his eyes, mocking me good-naturedly.
"Well, it was the summer, two years ago I believe. I was on my morning run from the Burrow (that's our house) to the small muggle town nearby. I was thirsty when I got there, and found that I had forgotten my water. I didn't have any muggle money so I couldn't even buy any at the small drugstore. I was sitting, resting on a curb, when I was suddenly thrown into shadow. A man was blocking the sun, and was holding a bottle of water in front of me. I say a man, really he was probably just eighteen. I took the water and stood up. He was a runner too judging by form and apparel. He told me that he'd been running for years, and that he'd seen me often. He said he had only just gotten the courage to talk to me, which I found odd because he was amazingly attractive. Dark brown hair, olive skin, and hazel eyes made him look like he was straight out of Italy. He was thin but well-muscled, and he seemed to exude sexuality. He never even asked if I liked him, or if I liked guys. He never had to. We went to his apartment, probably not the wisest idea, but who was I to refuse? We practically tore each other's clothes off when we got inside. He went at my pace, even though I could tell it was paining him to go so slowly. He said he wouldn't let me go all the way because I was too young, so we did everything except that. It was all very nice, but we never saw each other again." We were silent after I spoke, and it was Malfoy that broke it.
"Well, how was it?" Malfoy seemed to be hanging on every word.
"The sex? Amazing. He knew just what to do, and exactly how to teach me what to do. He basically just honed the instincts that were already there though. That was another reason we went slowly. He wanted to make sure I'd walk away more prepared. He was pretty well-equipped too, might I add." I smiled at the memory.
"So when did you go all the way?"
"This past summer, but I'd prefer not to tell that story." My tone was decidedly final, and he didn't ask again. "So how about you?" He turned away, as if deciding whether or not to speak. Useless really, I wasn't going to let him say no.
"I was at home. It was summer, and I was fourteen. One of my father's friends was visiting, and he had a nineteen year old son. I don't remember his name, or if I ever learned it. He had naturally dirty-blonde hair, and brown eyes. He was slightly short, but thin and well-kept. My father told him to take me upstairs so that I wouldn't hear what they discussed. Before I knew what had happened he was undressing me and was already sucking me off. He gave me chances to stop, but I was curious and I didn't take them. He unzipped and made me take all seven inches of him. No fucking though. That was my first time." I stared at him in horror.
"You were fourteen? He raped you Draco!" I hissed.
"He gave me a chance to say no, and I didn't."
"But you were so young!"
"Only a year younger than I am now." He answered. That one shut me up. I sat and stared. How could his first time be so insensitive?
"You have had better since then, right?"
"Yes, but we're not discussing them."
"Fine, just as long as that wasn't your only experience. Was he..." I suddenly found myself unable to finish.
"What?"
"Was he in total control?" Malfoy's eyes looked slightly shocked that I would consider such matters.
"No, I guess not totally. I could have stopped it if I wanted, but he was controlling the action. Well, what about you two? Were you even then?"
"Yes, we were." I shook my head. "I just remember wondering why he wanted me. I didn't think myself attractive, and I never dreamed anyone like him would." Malfoy laughed.
"Honestly Fred, do you listen to anything I say?"
"Pardon?"
"Never mind. If you don't know, don't worry about it." He laughed again.
"Do you think George is sincere?" I asked.
"Why ask me? He's your brother. But yes, I suppose he seemed to genuinely have gotten over it."
"I just can't help but worry that he'll pull something like this again." I said while gesturing to Malfoy's body. He stared up at me in confusion.
"Why do you care?" He met my eyes with his, and again I couldn't help but feel he already knew the answer.
"I asked you the same once, and you didn't answer."
"Now whose analyzing everything we've ever said?"
"I didn't analyze, I just remembered. I don't think I'm going to answer that question." He grinned at me.
"We make quite a pair Fred Weasley." The door flew open and Malfoy's smile was gone in an instant, taking mine with it.
"Draco!" It was none other than Lucius Malfoy, and he looked angrier than ever.
"Father? I didn't know you were coming."
"Obviously. What is he doing here?" He asked while gesturing violently in my direction.
"It was his twin that did this; he was just seeing how I was. He felt bad."
"A Weasley felt bad for a Malfoy? Please Draco, don't insult my intelligence." He turned to me, and seemed to be trying to kill me with a look. "I think it's time for him to leave. I want to discuss all of this with you Draco." I turned to Malfoy, and he gently nodded to tell me it was alright to leave. I got up and left without looking at Lucius. I shut the door gently and listened a minute. I didn't hear any yelling so I headed back to the common room.
It was late, later than I had realized when I fell into my bed. No one in the common room had said anything to me as I came in, and George and Katie, who would have said 'hello' were busy. I didn't even bother to change I was so tired. I pulled the hangings shut and worked at falling asleep. The full moon was still up, and a sliver of light fell on my face. And as much as I tried, I couldn't turn away from it or block it out.
Amicus Curiae-Friend of the Court
Chapter 6-Amicus Curiae (Still day III)
Most of the school was already in the great hall. A few heads turned to me as I came in, but George didn't seem to be here. Probably with McGonigal or Dumbledore. Lee waved and I sat next to him when I reached our table.
"Did you hear? Well, of course you did, I mean, he's your brother right?" Lee rambled excitedly.
"About George totally kicking Slytherin ass?" I asked while donning my best fake smile.
"It was amazing-Fred, what happened?"
"Pardon? Oh! It's nothing, George and I were just messing around and he didn't realize how hard he hit me. So what happened with the fight?"
"It was amazing. A lot of us saw it, myself included. George just went crazy. No one knows why it was Malfoy though. We thought maybe you did."
"No, sorry mate. Where is George anyway?"
"With McGonigal discussing punishment. Probably motives as well." Oh god, I hope George doesn't tell anyone why he did this.
"The fight...what did it look like?" I asked. Lee closed his eyes in an expression of bliss.
"You should have seen it. George came bounding down the stairs and when he reached the bottom he looked around frantically with a manic glint in his eye. There were a huge group of students just hanging around outside waiting for lunch to start. A couple of us looked at him, but some didn't notice. His eyes finally rested on one spot-Malfoy. We turned to look at him and by the time we had looked from George to Malfoy, George was on him. Malfoy didn't even know what hit him. George just went crazy-he looked possessed or something. He would occasionally say things to Malfoy, but we couldn't hear them. Even right in front I couldn't. Malfoy only hit him a couple times around the face, really no contest at all. Malfoy finally lost consciousness and we went into the hall. Apparently George kept beating him though, even after he was unconscious! I would have loved to see that. Well, then the teachers came and it was all over." I stared at Lee in horror as he finished.
"The whole school? George did that to him in front of the whole school?" My blood felt like mercury beneath my skin, and my knuckles were turning white. Lee looked at me with confused concern.
"Are you okay Fred? I mean, I thought you'd be happier about this." I realized how close I was to real trouble and forced myself to calm down.
"I meant that he wasn't considerate enough to wake me first, I would have loved to see it, maybe even help." I flinched at my words, even though I knew they weren't true. Lee clapped a hand on my shoulder.
"There's my guy! I wanted to join too, but George didn't look like he wanted the help, or needed it for that matter." Lee looked around to the Slytherin table after he spoke.
"I can't wait to congratulate him tonight. Think he'll be back in the dorm?" I asked.
"They have to let him sleep right?" I shrugged my shoulders in reply. "How come those two idiots didn't help Malfoy? Those...Crabbe and Goyle right?" Lee asked.
"Don't be stupid, they just follow orders, if that. They weren't going to get involved without more of a prompt. Plus, Slytherins are different than us. Friends are different for them." Lee eyed me suspiciously. "This lamb is delicious!" I closed our conversation with another bite of lamb and Lee turned to his plate. Before Lee could question me further Dumbledore stood and asked for our attention.
"I just wanted to thank you all for cooperating with us today. We have of course finished searching the grounds, and have deemed the school perfectly safe. Have a good weekend everyone." He sat back down and a few people left while many stayed behind to finish off as much dessert as possible. I left of course, and had to try really hard not to stop by the hospital wing, even after what he said. It didn't hurt as much as he wanted it to because I know he didn't mean it. Being lied to did hurt though. How did we get here? How the fuck did this happen? When did I start letting Malfoy affect me like this? Bastard. Yet I'm still angry at George. Blindingly angry in fact. I hope he shows up. Before I knew it I was in the common room. I sat by the fire for a little while and was joined by Katie. She sat quietly for a minute then spoke.
"Why did he do it Fred? What was so important that made him choose detention over me? And he hit you. What's going on?" She sounded desperate, and I wanted to help, really I did, but what could I say?
"Katie...I don't know what to tell you. I wish I could tell you the truth, but you wouldn't understand, and trust me, you don't really want to hear it. Nothing I tell you will make it better. George was angry at me, and Malfoy. Mostly me, and he took it out on him. You're the last person he meant to hurt Katie. I swear."
"Why was he angry at you? Or Malfoy? What does Malfoy have to do with any of this?"
"I can't tell you, I'm sorry." She slammed her hands down on her knees, startling me.
"That's not good enough Fred! (Direct shout out to Will Turner when he wants to go look for Elizabeth, didn't even realize I had written it like that until I went to type it) I want to know why he felt it more beneficial and satisfying to beat a stranger to a pulp over you; than spend time with his girlfriend! What could have made him that mad?!"
"You really want to know Katie?!"
"Yes!" She screeched, and the entire common room was trying to pretend they weren't listening.
"Then fucking ask him!" I stood up and left the common room. I couldn't go back to the dorm because I would inevitably have to face Lee. There was no way in hell I could go back to the hospital wing so I headed outside. The moon was in its second day of perfect light and shape. I sat on the steps and stared at the full moon; the craters, the shadows, the light. It looked so complicated, and it reminded me of him. Damn! I just can't get away from him can I? I guess Malfoy will miss a few days of running. He's probably hurting over that one. I decided to take a walk to ease my tension. I didn't really want to run-it didn't feel right somehow. I don't think I've ever walked the grounds at night alone before now. The lake was beautiful with the moon's reflection, and the lights in the castle twinkled warmly against the inky black sky. My eyes fell on one lighted window-the hospital wing. Was he awake? Was he getting better? What was he thinking about? If I went back there now, and anyone found me...I shuddered. I wonder if George is back yet. What will I say to him? 'Hey George, will you hold still while I let out some anger?' Yeah right. I'm still too mad at him to talk to him. I sat down under one of the huge trees near the lake and stared out into the night. My stomach growled in response to my lack of appetite all day. I stood up and decided to pay the house elves a visit. I trudged through the corridors aimlessly, and was surprised to find them completely deserted save for a few other students. Had I missed something? Where is everyone? I reached the kitchen and was almost run over by elves holding trays of food.
"Master Wheezy!"
"Hello Dobby. How are your socks coming along?"
"Very well, thank you sir!" He squeaked, happy to talk about his favorite topic.
"Dobby, are the teachers having a meeting or something? I didn't see anyone when I was coming here."
"Yes they are in the Great Hall talking." He gestured to the table under the staff table that they were filling with drinks and some food.
"Thank you." I took some food from one of the trays they were holding and walked out. Common room or hospital wing? Common room or hospital wing? Common-oh fuck it. I turned into the hospital wing as I reached it. Madam Pomfrey appeared to be at the meeting as well, but how could she have left Malfoy? Maybe he was doing better. I silently shut the door behind me. I looked to Malfoy's bed, he was indeed still in it, and was looking slightly better.
"I thought I'd find you here." I jumped into the air as a voice rang out behind me.
"George." I was too angry, too angry! This can't happen here, not near Malfoy! Why wasn't he in detention?
"Aww, were you bringing him food? How touching." He sneered, managing to sound amazingly like Malfoy.
"Actually the food is for me. I don't think he can eat anyway. I didn't feel like going to the common room. Why aren't you in detention?"
"Tomorrow. Well obviously, that's why I came here to find you. Do you want to hear about it? It was beautiful." He closed his eyes in a perfect imitation of Lee at dinner.
"I've heard it thank you." I answered stiffly.
"Not from a first-hand point of view though." He hopped off the bed he was sitting on and walked towards me. I flinched, not wanting to hear this for fear of my anger. "As soon as he saw me his expression changed. Like an owl realizing it has to fly through a snow storm. 'How is it he is so good at telling us apart?' I wonder. I jump him and he doesn't fight back more than a first year could. I hiss things in his ear, things only he can hear. 'Isn't this better than fucking my brother?' 'I bet you'd rather this were Fred, because you'd probably be getting off on it like before.' I congratulated him on not complaining, but told him that only a fairy wouldn't fight back at all." A grin played on his George's features. It sickened me because I know what that specific grin feels like and generally means. "He tried a few hits after that one, didn't go so well though. I told him that if he ever came near you again, I'd finish what I started. People started to file in to lunch, but he was kind enough to stay with me. He was already unconscious, but I couldn't help myself. I kicked him a few times for good measure-I knew the teachers were on there way. Oh! I almost forgot-I managed to grab you a few souvenirs." He held out his hand, fist closed, waiting for mine. I hesitantly put out my hand. This was probably a really bad idea as I was already mad enough to kill George. I stared at the contents of my hand. George was grinning triumphantly. A mass of silver-blonde hair, some shreds of clothing-and- two of Malfoy's teeth. I couldn't see, couldn't think. My anger consumed me, and I forced it down long enough to place my 'souvenirs' on the table near Malfoy's bed before I attacked George. He wasn't surprised, but wasn't completely prepared either. On a normal day, George may have stood a chance, but today it was hopeless. My rage had turned me into an animal, and he would soon look like Malfoy.
"Fred." I froze. George and I turned to look at Malfoy. He was awake and looking at us. The swelling in his eyes had gone down so he could actually see us. "Please don't do this."
"But...how can you say that? After what he did to you?" George looked from Malfoy to me, but I couldn't read his expression.
"Because you're better than him. Don't stoop to his level Fred, especially not for me. I'm not worth it. Besides, I'm not sharing my peace and quiet here with him." I stared down at George, slightly limp in my hands. George looked at me, completely puzzled. He couldn't read between the lines of what Malfoy had said so he didn't completely understand. Malfoy actually cared and didn't want me in trouble. I blinked at my realization. This was also the first time George had heard Malfoy and I talk to each other, and he seemed to be trying to figure out what was between us. I let him go.
"He's right George. I'm not going to become you. I hope you realize what you've done, how you've contributed to the persecution of gays everywhere. You said you were fine with this George. Was that all a lie?"
"No! I am fine with it. I'm just not fine with him! I told you that!"
"George, Malfoy and I are not together! I told you that. He's fifteen for god's sake! We both needed someone to talk to-I can't believe I'm explaining this to you again. George, please. I'm tired of fighting with you. It hurts, and I know you feel it too. I really want you to be okay with this, with me, with my choices. That means not suspecting every guy I ever talk to of shagging me when you're not looking! You probably won't like all the guys I date all the time, but whose to say I'll like all the girls you date? Sure, Katie's a great find, but how much longer will you have her? Do you even know what you did to her?"
"Katie? Is she alright? What happened?" George was suddenly concerned.
"You see? That concern for your girlfriend. I will have the same for my boyfriend someday. Please George, I really need your support in this." George looked like he was waging a battle with himself. He spoke finally.
"So, you're saying that you love him?"
"George! This isn't about him! This is about me!"
"I'm fine with you liking guys. I told you. I'll bless you in this. I'll support you and be there whenever you need it. If he was anyone else- "
"Listen. Listen well. For the last time. Malfoy is not my lover. He's my friend! No more so than Lee or Harry! Please tell me you understand!" Again George looked like he was battling against himself. We had been going in circles with our speech, and he knew it. After about a minute he sighed.
"I believe you." He stood up and looked at me. I sighed in thanks. We embraced as he spoke. "I'm so sorry. I just-I couldn't understand why you felt like you could talk to him more than me. I'm sorry."
"Thank you. Go to Katie." He stepped back, smiled, and nodded. "You're completely forgiven." He smiled broadly at me, and I at him.
"Thank you. Talk with your friend. And again-I'm sorry." He hurried out to Katie, and I turned to Malfoy.
"I'm so glad that's over." I sat down next to him.
"Did you mean all you said?" He slowly turned and looked at me.
"I think so." I said, trying to remember everything I had said. "Maybe not."
"Am I really just another Harry Potter to you?" He looked angry.
"What? No, of course not. You're more than Lee or Harry to me. Yes, you're my friend, but not in the same way they are."
"In what way then?" He asked bitterly.
"I guess-to spend my especially lonely hours with. Wow that sounded stupid. Look, you know things about me and understand them like they never could. I'll stay with you, whether you like it or not."
"You said I was so mature, yet you said to George that I was only fifteen in such a manner..."
"I told you I didn't mean all of it. You are more..."
"-Don't. You don't...why don't you eat that food you brought? I know you're hungry." I grinned at him and went to the food I brought. Upon sitting back down with it I spoke.
"I'm sorry. About the things he said." His eyes clouded.
"Only I knew them, and I didn't mind. It was nice to hear your name during...it reminded me why it was happening. Why I was letting it happen." I stared at him, mouth open, waiting for the food in my hand that wouldn't come. He reached over and shut my mouth. "See? I'm getting better."
"He knocked out your teeth. He kept them to make me mad. I didn't know he was capable."
"I'm glad, maybe Pomfrey can put them back." He laughed softly.
"Why didn't you fight back?"
"Pardon? Oh, it just seemed like a waste. He would have beat me in the end anyway, and the more I resisted the worse it would have been. I'm not strong enough to take you, so I figured I wasn't strong enough to take him."
"How can you tell us apart anyway?" He sighed at my question.
"Do I really need to answer that?"
"What? I was just wondering. So many people can't. Even before we started talking you could tell us apart."
"Your eyes."
"What? What about them? I think our eyes look exactly-"
"-the eyes. Just...take my word for it Fred." I stared at him in amazement then went back to my food.
"I was outside for a little while tonight. The moon is full. It's beautiful."
"And it reminded you of me." He finished.
"What?" My eyes flew to his.
"Why else would you have brought it up? Come on, after what we said after breakfast, before you left. You tried to leave me wanting to know more, but you only pissed yourself off."
"Enough!" I yelled, startling even myself.
"What?" He blinked in surprise.
"I don't want to hear it! Don't analyze. Just let it be. I told you I wanted to stay here, but I don't want to listen to you pick apart and label everything we've ever said to each other!"
"Or you're just scared to hear it." He chided.
"Unlikely. Just don't cheapen what we have."
"What do we have Fred?"
"Companionship Draco. Let it be." He glared at me after I spoke, but remained silent and contemplative.
"Tell me about your first time." He was quiet, seemingly afraid I would say no. I smiled at him.
"Alright. But it wasn't anything beautiful or fairytale-like so don't expect it." He laughed at me.
"Come on. First times with a member of the same sex never are." He rolled his eyes, mocking me good-naturedly.
"Well, it was the summer, two years ago I believe. I was on my morning run from the Burrow (that's our house) to the small muggle town nearby. I was thirsty when I got there, and found that I had forgotten my water. I didn't have any muggle money so I couldn't even buy any at the small drugstore. I was sitting, resting on a curb, when I was suddenly thrown into shadow. A man was blocking the sun, and was holding a bottle of water in front of me. I say a man, really he was probably just eighteen. I took the water and stood up. He was a runner too judging by form and apparel. He told me that he'd been running for years, and that he'd seen me often. He said he had only just gotten the courage to talk to me, which I found odd because he was amazingly attractive. Dark brown hair, olive skin, and hazel eyes made him look like he was straight out of Italy. He was thin but well-muscled, and he seemed to exude sexuality. He never even asked if I liked him, or if I liked guys. He never had to. We went to his apartment, probably not the wisest idea, but who was I to refuse? We practically tore each other's clothes off when we got inside. He went at my pace, even though I could tell it was paining him to go so slowly. He said he wouldn't let me go all the way because I was too young, so we did everything except that. It was all very nice, but we never saw each other again." We were silent after I spoke, and it was Malfoy that broke it.
"Well, how was it?" Malfoy seemed to be hanging on every word.
"The sex? Amazing. He knew just what to do, and exactly how to teach me what to do. He basically just honed the instincts that were already there though. That was another reason we went slowly. He wanted to make sure I'd walk away more prepared. He was pretty well-equipped too, might I add." I smiled at the memory.
"So when did you go all the way?"
"This past summer, but I'd prefer not to tell that story." My tone was decidedly final, and he didn't ask again. "So how about you?" He turned away, as if deciding whether or not to speak. Useless really, I wasn't going to let him say no.
"I was at home. It was summer, and I was fourteen. One of my father's friends was visiting, and he had a nineteen year old son. I don't remember his name, or if I ever learned it. He had naturally dirty-blonde hair, and brown eyes. He was slightly short, but thin and well-kept. My father told him to take me upstairs so that I wouldn't hear what they discussed. Before I knew what had happened he was undressing me and was already sucking me off. He gave me chances to stop, but I was curious and I didn't take them. He unzipped and made me take all seven inches of him. No fucking though. That was my first time." I stared at him in horror.
"You were fourteen? He raped you Draco!" I hissed.
"He gave me a chance to say no, and I didn't."
"But you were so young!"
"Only a year younger than I am now." He answered. That one shut me up. I sat and stared. How could his first time be so insensitive?
"You have had better since then, right?"
"Yes, but we're not discussing them."
"Fine, just as long as that wasn't your only experience. Was he..." I suddenly found myself unable to finish.
"What?"
"Was he in total control?" Malfoy's eyes looked slightly shocked that I would consider such matters.
"No, I guess not totally. I could have stopped it if I wanted, but he was controlling the action. Well, what about you two? Were you even then?"
"Yes, we were." I shook my head. "I just remember wondering why he wanted me. I didn't think myself attractive, and I never dreamed anyone like him would." Malfoy laughed.
"Honestly Fred, do you listen to anything I say?"
"Pardon?"
"Never mind. If you don't know, don't worry about it." He laughed again.
"Do you think George is sincere?" I asked.
"Why ask me? He's your brother. But yes, I suppose he seemed to genuinely have gotten over it."
"I just can't help but worry that he'll pull something like this again." I said while gesturing to Malfoy's body. He stared up at me in confusion.
"Why do you care?" He met my eyes with his, and again I couldn't help but feel he already knew the answer.
"I asked you the same once, and you didn't answer."
"Now whose analyzing everything we've ever said?"
"I didn't analyze, I just remembered. I don't think I'm going to answer that question." He grinned at me.
"We make quite a pair Fred Weasley." The door flew open and Malfoy's smile was gone in an instant, taking mine with it.
"Draco!" It was none other than Lucius Malfoy, and he looked angrier than ever.
"Father? I didn't know you were coming."
"Obviously. What is he doing here?" He asked while gesturing violently in my direction.
"It was his twin that did this; he was just seeing how I was. He felt bad."
"A Weasley felt bad for a Malfoy? Please Draco, don't insult my intelligence." He turned to me, and seemed to be trying to kill me with a look. "I think it's time for him to leave. I want to discuss all of this with you Draco." I turned to Malfoy, and he gently nodded to tell me it was alright to leave. I got up and left without looking at Lucius. I shut the door gently and listened a minute. I didn't hear any yelling so I headed back to the common room.
It was late, later than I had realized when I fell into my bed. No one in the common room had said anything to me as I came in, and George and Katie, who would have said 'hello' were busy. I didn't even bother to change I was so tired. I pulled the hangings shut and worked at falling asleep. The full moon was still up, and a sliver of light fell on my face. And as much as I tried, I couldn't turn away from it or block it out.
Amicus Curiae-Friend of the Court