Chapter 9

January 29

Dear Sirius,

Ginny actually fell asleep in the dorm. Thankfully Ron is sleeping on the sofa in the Common Room because he's angry with me, and this morning when I led her back to her dorm he was asleep and didn't notice.

It's Saturday, thank Merlin, so I think I'll hang out with Danielle today. Not in Hogsmeade, because everyone will be there… we might go to the Shrieking Shack or just meet somewhere else.

She's a really good friend, Sirius. I can't believe I found her right when I needed her. She's not too pretty, and I'm not attracted to her, don't get me wrong; she just listens. That's all I need right now. Not like my so-called "friends" who do nothing but judge me and tell me what I'm doing wrong. She listens and she understands, Sirius. I know you would do that for me if you were still here. Just like a father. My father.

McGonagall told us in class that we had to begin sending in our applications for whatever jobs we considered a possibility. I'm definitely going to play Quidditch, so I don't need any backups. I think I'll tackle that today and talk with Danielle later tonight. I think Hermione's rubbed off on me after seven years… she's probably sent about fifty of hers in already, knowing her.

I can't believe I'm even thinking about her! We aren't friends anymore, and she chooses to hang out with Ron. It's fine with me. I don't need either of them.

January 30

Danielle's great. She bought me this broomstick-serving kit for no reason; it reminds me of the one Hermione bought for me years ago, only much better.

We walked to the Shrieking Shack and just talked, like we always do… Now that I think about it, I'm usually the one who does most of the talking. I actually haven't heard much from her about herself. I guess she's shy, maybe.

"Hi, Harry," she said. We sat down on the floor. It brought back so many memories of you and third year, Sirius.

I pulled out a bottle of firewhiskey (smaller than what I usually get) and we shared. I spilled my thoughts and emotions and she listened, like always. Then I told her about Ron and Hermione.

"You don't need them, Harry," she said. "If they just judge you al the time, they're not really your friends. Forget them. I'm all you need."

I smiled and nodded and kept talking then, but now that kind of spooks me. I mean, Ron and Hermione have been there for me since first year… sure, we've had our fights, but we stuck together. They came with me in third year when I met you, and they were among the few that believed me in fifth year. Ron and Hermione both stuck with me as far as they could in first and second year when I battled Voldemort.

If that's not true friendship, Sirius, I don't know what is.

Harry

A/N: Sorry it's so short… I wrote it in forty minutes last night before I went to bed! I thought it was horrible… but at least it's something. The next chapter will be more plot evolution, I think.

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OutofAzkaban

Code112358132134- Yes indeed, you do. I think I forgot to tell you I wanted to use the Psychic Llama thing… you don't mind, do you? J Sirius is NOT out there, hon. You must indeed get over it. And I'm not planning any catfight between Ginny and Adriana… giggles for reasons unbeknownst to you If you're looking for one, I suggest you check another story.

Cecilia Orechio- No, Harry has not talked to Remus yet about anything besides class and such. Good idea! Remus-talking… next chapter? We'll see.

FoREvEr ends- Of course you'll get more info about Adriana. You didn't think I'd leave it at that, did you?

potts-Teachers don't care, but if you don't make it up, your grade drops.

roxygurl25-Thanks, Mel. (I know, I hate Harry too!)