New Slytherin Girl

by AnnyBee

Not all Slytherins are evil; then again, they're not always so nice. But isn't that how all humans are? We grow, we learn, we adapt. At times we're hated and others we're loved. Seven eventful years, all seen through a Slytherin's eyes. Sometimes it's good to look at life from a different perspective.

118. Meet The Parents

Sitting next to one of the trees in our grove I squinted up at the light creeping its way from between the leaves. The sun was doing well in proving that summer was still in effect. But as much as I would have liked, it didn't look like I could go inside anytime soon. Lev was still enjoying his time out and I wasn't so heartless as to take that away from him. Not that I minded spending some time with my puppy, nothing could be further from the truth. The real issue here was that, out of all the people who were currently at the manor, I was apparently the only one who could be bothered to do it.

As I made a face to myself I heard a bit of rustling from nearby. With a slight groan I pushed myself up, turning towards the sound. Out from between a huddle of trees one of our usual staff appeared, followed by someone who was a little less of a usual sight. Abbi led George where she must have assumed I would be. George was looking at her curiously but didn't look to have anything to say.

"Miss Volkov, your guest has arrived."

"Thank you," I smiled a little at his expression before turning back to her, "we'll be in shortly."

Abbi gave me a nod, dismissing herself, and turned back towards the manor. I waited a moment, listening as she walked away. Once out of sight I turned from her to George. He continued to look at something distant, as if lost in some deep thought.

"Hi" I called, reminding him of where he was. George jumped a bit at the sound of my voice but quickly recovered. He gave me a small smile.

"Hi" he repeated simply. George took a few steps closer and leaned down to kiss my cheek.

"You're late" I noted. His smile seemed to waver a bit at that.

"Am I?" George asked in an airy tone, as if he had known but had hoped I wouldn't have noticed. "I thought I headed out early. Figured it would be an easy enough place to find, considering… It wasn't. Does your house have wards placed on it?"

"Oh, did I not warn you about those?" I frowned a little. "I could have sworn I had at least mentioned that bit of information."

"No, no you didn't" he replied in the same airy tone. I gave him a shrug; it was too late to worry about any of that now. He smiled at my response, or lack thereof, and took my hand. "So, why are you out here by yourself?"

"Well, I'm by myself most of the time I'm home, really. But I was actually spending a bit of time with Lev" I explained. George gave me a confused look and I knew exactly why that was. "He ran off just a moment ago, chasing after some Moke we stumbled upon. It shrank and scurried off; Lev's been trying to find it since. Maybe if he does my mother will make a purse out of it."

"Does she often make accessories off creatures he hunts down?" George gave a small chuckle thinking what I had said was a joke.

"Mokeskin bags are actually quite popular and sell for a decent amount given the right market. You wouldn't think so from the look of them, awfully gaudy things they are, but they have their use I suppose" I gave him a shrug. Honestly, she wouldn't make it herself but, if given the material, she could certainly have one made. George smiled at me.

"I'm sorry he left you by yourself though" he tried to console me, placing a hand around my waist. I shook my head at him.

"No, that's good, he needs to tire himself out a bit" I waved away that concern. "Some of the staff get nervous when he's inside too long so I have to frequently bring him out to play on the grounds."

"Does he hate them that much?"

"Well, he's not exactly a people person… people puppy… You know what I mean" I pouted, noting the almost patronizing look George was giving me. He shrugged and stepped closer, moving to rub my shoulder consolingly. "I'm serious, it's fine. He just gets emotionally volatile when he's been inside all day. An hour of running around can do a world of change for him."

At that, Lev came running back to us. He looked rather pleased with himself, and whatever had become of that Moke. Noticing George had arrived, he paused to watch him for a moment. Lev circled around the two of us, sniffing at him. Once he began to build up his growl I shot him a warning look. Understanding it, Lev turned from us and back to the grounds. Maybe he'd get lucky and find something else worth a chase. I turned back to George, but it looked like he hadn't even noticed Lev. He was staring off in thought once more.

"You look nervous" I guessed. George turned to look at me and gave me a small smile.

"Yeah, well" he mumbled in reply.

George turned his expression over to the manor. Yeah, he was definitely nervous. I took a hold of his hand and pulled him with me, further into the wood. We kept walking, George following silently, until the trees became more densely stacked. I rested my back against a nearby tree and he took a step closer, coming to stand in front of me.

"Are you having second thoughts? If you're going to back out, now would be the time to do it" I warned.

"No. No, this is something we should do" George shook his head, but he seemed to want to convince himself more than me. "They're your parents, I should meet them. And they're letting you see me—"

"Letting me?" I interrupted with a look. That statement seemed to have taken him out of whatever state of mind he had been in. He gave me a smirk.

"You know what I mean" he smiled, stepping closer towards me.

"Well, if you really want to get on their good side then stop being so nervous" I offered. "My father thinks it's a sign of cowardice, and my mother finds it unattractive. Suffice to say it won't sit well with either of them."

"Well, what do you think?" George asked, stepping a little closer again. I gave the question a bit of thought.

"I guess one could make the argument that it is a sign of intelligence; knowing when it is best not to do certain things and all of that. But if I had to choose I suppose it's more of a sign of a coward than anything else" I gave him a shrug. George gave me a chuckle and shook his head lightly.

"Not what I meant, but I'll take it" he came a little closer and leaned down to kiss me. I gave him a smile but that did remind me of something.

"Actually, while we're on the subject of… proximity" I said with a gesture between us. He gave a smirk at my wording. "I should warn you not to get close to my father. Even if you think you're being polite, keep as much adequate distance between you as possible. If you're ever unsure then you're most likely already too close."

"What if I want to shake his hand—"

"You won't be getting it back" I interrupted before he latched himself to that idea. George took in a breath before giving me a nod.

"Noted" he called as he let out the breath.

"You'll be fine" I reassured him and took a step closer. Using the short distance between us I extended a hand and placed it on his chest. "Just… don't be an idiot. Please. I've had at least a dozen different conversations with my father insisting on the fact. I really don't want to be proven wrong."

"What are you implying exactly?" he asked, leaning down to give me a look. I rolled my eyes at him, swatting a hand against his chest. George took hold of my hand as it lay against him. With a smile now resting on his lips he leaned down and kissed me.

A moment passed before either of us heard anyone approach. From, what I assumed was my pup, a few barks came our way. I turned to give him a frown but he wasn't aiming the noise towards us. Lev stopped just a few feet away, staring intently in the direction of the house. Of course, I knew immediately what that meant. I pushed myself a few good paces from George and waited. He gave me a curious look but didn't ask, and he didn't need to as not a moment later the cause became apparent.

"Miss Volkov" Abbie called, keeping a nervous eye on Lev. The pup who had been standing peacefully by me was now carefully circling at her feet. With a look, I warned him to stop. He kept his expression, settling on a low growl, as she cleared her throat. "Miss, your father wishes for you to be inside now. Both of you."

"You can tell him we're on our way" I called back. She gave me a nod before turning back and walking off. Lev let out a small bark, feeling triumphant with his successful warning. He trotted off after her and followed towards the castle.

"Great, and just as I was starting to feel better" George grumbled quietly, looking at the space where the two had gone. I couldn't help but smile at him.

"Don't worry, I already had a talk with him. He promised not to kill you."

"That's nice. But what if you hadn't talked to him?" he chuckled as if he had just told a joke. I turned away from him for a moment, not wanting to answer that. George's expression changed into something a little more serious after that. "What if you hadn't talked to him?"

"Let's just go inside, before he sends more people after us" I called and extended a hand to him. George, with a resigned look, took it and followed after me.

Together we walked back towards the manor, out of the small grove and past the garden. There were a few of the staff out and about, doing the usual maintenance, but the grounds were otherwise unoccupied. Sometimes it felt as if I was the only one who ever bothered taking a walk around. My mother did for perhaps the first or second week of spring and Papa mostly did so when she asked him to. Now that I spent the majority of my time at Hogwarts I sometimes wondered why they even bothered keeping it looking nice.

Following the rest of the path, we made our way in through the kitchen's entrance. Stepping carefully past us, the staff wandered through the room, preparing a few small treats. Normally this would be a busier time of day for them but meal preparations weren't such a big issue today. Although, it would be a lie to say that looking at the food hadn't made me peckish. On the way in I idled around the kitchen display counter to see if anything caught my interest, George waiting next to me patiently. As I pouted at the choices, not finding anything particularly savory, someone paused across the way from us.

"If you were wanting something a little more recent, the prosciutto crostini are quite almost finished."

"Thanks, Alla" I smiled, recognizing the voice. She smiled at me, glancing at the things that lay on the counters. Alla shifted her look to me, then just beside me, reminding me that he was still standing behind me. "Oh, this is George. I don't think you two have met."

"No, I don't believe we have. Hello" she called warmly. George extended a hand to her in greeting.

"It's nice to finally meet you" he called back as they shook. Taking his hand back from her he leaned over and wrapped it around my arm. "So, can I ask you a question? What is it like to put up with her all day, everyday, all the time—ow!"

In a rash sort of movement, I jabbed my elbow against his ribs. George took the arm he had wrapped around my shoulders and moved it protectively over his stomach. He bent over slightly, placing a hand on his knee for support. I glared down at him but George merely smiled back. Ignoring the violent outburst, Alla gave us a calm and gentle smile.

"Contrary to what she might want others to believe, she's actually quite a pleasure to be around" she answered softly. I finished giving George a look before turning back to her.

"Where are Mum and Papa?"

"Your father is in the main study. Your mother should be downstairs soon. Last time I heard, he was almost done getting ready" she answered with a nod. From the other side of the room, someone called for her attention. Moving to hover over the work being done around her, Alla gave us a smile before turning her attention to supervising the other staff in the kitchen.

"Getting ready?" George asked, watching as they walked off.

"Yeah, for some event or another" I waved a hand at his tone. "I'm not sure on the details to be honest; I lose track of these things after a while. I think it may be a meeting? No, if it were a business event they wouldn't have invited me in the first place. Unless it was some sort of family business event..."

"You're not going?"

"Obviously not, I'm here with you" I answered, forgetting about what possible situation they were heading into; it wasn't my concern now. George gave me a nod but held his previous expression. I gave him a sigh. "I thought we spoke about this."

"Well, what if they don't like me" he mumbled. I rolled my eyes before looking at him.

"If it makes you feel any better my mother probably doesn't even remember who you are" I gave him a shrug.

"Well isn't that a relief! I was worried my girlfriend's mother would actually know and remember who I am" George exclaimed, putting a hand to his chest. He didn't seem to understand the lightness of my tone.

"I love her and all, don't get me wrong, but she is rather superficial" I tried to explain, giving him a smile. "Anything she deems unimportant she forgets. Even if she were to meet you several times over the course of just a month she could still not remember who you are."

A chime rang at my words. Turning I saw movement further in the kitchen. Apparently, the food had finished. The staff began to separate the items for display before setting a small tray aside for us. I took one and looked back to George, who still seemed puzzled about our previous conversation.

"You having a boyfriend is unimportant?" he asked, watching as I blew on the snack to cool it.

"Her priorities may be a bit unorthodox" I admitted taking a bite of the crostino; it was good. "That's just how she's always been."

"Hello, dear."

My mother greeted warmly as she entered the room. With a smile, she fixed her gaze on the sweets and treats littered about the kitchen. Wearing a long flowing gown, with a sort of lacy flower pattern covering the tops of the fabric, she was rather done up for the event. Not that she didn't dress like that on a day to day basis, really. Still, I could see why my father had wanted to be with her so badly. My mother paused in front of one display and grabbed a bit to examine between two fingers. Turning back to me she paused, noticing now that I wasn't alone.

"Who is this, dear?"

"Mum, this is George" I answered with a smile, having guessed as much. "Remember when I mentioned he would visit?"

"Oh, that's right, he's that Weasley friend of yours" she muttered, glancing at him up and down. I noticed him lean a bit forward to greet her, but putting a hand between them I stopped him. She had already moved on. "Well, no matter. More importantly, why aren't you dressed?"

"I'm not? I could have sworn I put clothes on this morning" I mumbled, frowning down at myself. Beside me I heard George give a small snicker.

"You know very well that is not what I meant" my mother gave me a frustrated sigh as I smiled back at her. "We'll be leaving soon, you really mustn't wait until the last minute to get yourself ready."

"I'm not going, or did you forget that too?"

"You never want to go anywhere. I swear, this need to stay isolated is unhealthy" she called, ignoring my latter comment. I gave her a small shrug and bit into the rest of my food.

"You're late" a serious voice called from overhead. My father made himself known as he walked into the room. He pulled on the sleeves of his robes to adjust them before looking up. His gaze landed on George and it was obvious he remembered that which my mother didn't.

"Hi, Papa" I greeted, moving to stand right in front of him. The position was more so to stand between him and George than much else. I gave him a look but my father ignored it. With his expression still fixed on George, my father patted my head in recognition of my presence.

"Do you know him, dear?" my mother asked curiously as I continued to frown at my father. He didn't answer her, instead he continued to look at George.

Papa's scrutinizing look was still fixated on the boy in front of him. I let out a sigh. Of course he liked to do that; that was one of the main reasons why most found him intimidating. That look alone was enough to make most people feel powerless, weak. I had asked him not to do that but, in his defense, he hadn't really agreed. My father crossed his arms and I saw George swallow.

"It's nice to meet you, sir" George spoke finally. His hand twitched as if wanting to shake his hand but remembering what I had told him. My father's frown deepened, also noting his hesitation.

"I'm sure it is" he answered simply and uncrossed his arms.

"Oh, you didn't. Well, now you do I suppose" my mother called to him softly, not registering the heavy undertone in the conversation. Still, her tone was off.

"What is it?" Papa asked, turning towards her, having noticed something in her tone as well. George let out a silent breath he seemed to have been holding in since my father appeared.

"Did you know your daughter isn't attending tonight's Ministry auction with us?" she complained, putting a hand softly against her chest. Now I turned to give her a tired look. Of course, when I did something she didn't like I was his daughter.

"Oh, sure, go and tattle on me. I'm still not going" I called back defiantly. My mother let out a pout and my father gave out a small smile.

"You are such a pretty girl, I just don't understand this incessant need to put comfort over looking your best" she shook her head as if she honestly could not grasp that sort of reasoning. "I think you should spend more time with that girl… Daphne? She always looks so pretty. Her mother was telling me you two spend so much time together in school."

"Yes, we do" I answered with a sigh. My mother either didn't notice or decided to ignore it.

"Oh, why don't you invite her to go shopping with you? You could get some new summer clothes."

"We already did—"

"Don't be silly, dear. That was months ago" my mother waved the comment away before I had time to finish it. I gave her a look; it had been one at the most. Papa smiled to his side and I turned to him too. He always enjoyed watching us argue over this. Although he knew, more than well, I would always be more like him than my mother he still found it amusing and therefore was immensely unhelpful during these arguments.

"I'm not being silly" I complained. "I don't need any new clothes."

"We should be seeing the Greengrasses tonight. I'll let her mother know, I'm sure she'd love to join you" my mother smiled, purposely ignoring me this time. "Be sure to get some nice dresses while you're there; you have that trip coming up over the next few weeks and there is no sense being unprepared. Maybe if you had something to wear you would come with us to these events too. Maybe then you could even find a boyfriend."

"Mother, I already have a boyfriend" I reminded, trying to stop myself from running a hand across my face in frustration.

"Oh, really? Who is that, dear?" she asked sounding genuinely taken aback, which I personally found slightly insulting.

"It's George" I answered, gesturing next to me. George gave her a small wave but my mother's expression did not change. "That's why he's visiting, remember?"

"Oh, sweetie, be serious" my mother called, waving her hand at me. Papa's smile disappeared, as if having just remembered he was here.

"Again, I am being serious. We've been dating for eight months."

"Why didn't you ever tell me?" she asked, almost sounding hurt.

"I did" I repeated through gritted teeth, trying not to place the blame entirely on her. She had always been like this, I should have expected as much. Really it was my own fault for expecting things to be different.

"Unfortunately she is being serious" Papa muttered next to her.

"So she told us?" my mother asked thoughtfully, looking up at him for a moment. Papa turned to look to us also with a thoughtful expression, but his was much more of a concern.

"You know, I haven't really spoken to your… boyfriend. Why don't you give us a moment" my father turned to look down at me. I gave him a frown. If he didn't want me present for whatever he was intending to say then that wasn't good. The look on George's face showed he agreed.

"Papa—"

"Karissa" my father interrupting, turning to look at my mother. "Dear, didn't you say you bought Katerina a new set of dress robes for tonight? Why don't you show them to her? There's no sense in putting them to waste."

"Oh, I almost forgot about them! That would be a shame" my mother put a hand to get mouth gently. I turned from her to give my father a dirty look.

"Papa—"

"There isn't much time before the auction begins, Karissa. Why don't you take Katerina now? I don't mind waiting" Papa smiled down at her. My mother smiled back at him and reached over to me, taking hold of my hand.

"Papa! You said—"

"I know what I said, now follow your mother" he smiled at me and turned to George. My mother led me forward quickly and to stairs. Either she didn't understand why this was a concern or she just found that showing me a dress was that much more important. Soon, they disappeared from sight.

Ignoring my silent protesting my mother dragged me up into the room. It wasn't mine, or hers, but one of the spare ones on the lower floors. Inside, the usual bright colors of the decorations made me squint. Depending on the time of day the spare rooms were lit enough to give me a headache. Not that I ever voiced that, my mother had enough topics on me to make complaints about. Still keeping hold of me, my mother moved me to the bed. Giving me a smile, she let go and glided over to the closet. I gave her a sigh and sat down. One of them I could argue against but when both were against me it was easier to just ride out the annoyance. Then again…

"Tell me you didn't expect me to wear this" I called in a serious tone. My mother gave me a sigh.

Not saying anything yet she laid the garment on the bed. The dress looked small, meaning it would be fitted. It looked soft at least. Honestly, it didn't look bad except for the unnecessary amount of glitter on the dress. It was splattered over the pink fabric, over the sleeves and frankly anything above the waist. I was sure it would look nice on someone else but it definitely was not the dress for me.

"I thought you would like it" my mother pouted over at me. "They're like your dress robes, the ones you took darling Draco's birthday party. The only difference is they're not… so boring."

"I see that" I nodded, looking down at the shining material below me.

"I honestly don't know why I try with you. I wouldn't be surprised if you ended up an old maiden on this route you're heading" she huffed, running a hand against the fabric of the dress.

"I have a boyfriend" I groaned, having to repeat myself again.

"Oh, that's right, that boy downstairs" she curiously muttered to herself.

"Mother, you do realize Papa is just using this as an excuse to have some time alone with George" I urged, trying to make her realize yet another reason this was a bad idea.

"Is he?" she asked, only half paying attention to me, all her focus directed at the dress. Grabbing the ends of it gently she extended the bottom out for a better look. "Well, then that means we won't have to hurry. Now, go on, try it on."

"If I put this on, will you let me head back downstairs without complaining?"

"Only if you let me do your hair as well."

"But—"

"The longer you argue with me the longer your father has with that boy" my mother gave me a smirk. I paused.

"So I get this from the both of you, then" I grumbled in reply. My mother kept her smile, completely unashamed. I kept my look and if she were the kind I'm sure she would have rolled her eyes. "Fine, but please hurry. I don't need this taking longer than necessary."

My mother let out a giggle and pulled me closer to her.

Part of me figured this was the real reason she had wanted children. She had done this all my childhood and I was sure she had done so with my brother as well. Honestly she should just invest in an expensive doll, or something of the like. They made those for a reason, or she could always just have one made for her. Maybe then she would leave me alone. But whatever the case, at least she had held herself back a bit.

The dress was structured into a looser fit, making it a little better although still tighter than I would have liked. At least the color wasn't one that violated the eyes. My mother smiled down at my hair as she pinned the last of the curls she had made up and to the side. I sighed again as I noticed the pin she had placed to hold down my hair was shining like the dress. Ignoring the frown I was giving my own reflection my mother cooed.

"Now can we go?" I asked, turning my look to her.

"Yes, fine" she waved her hand at me, but I was gone before she could finish.

I didn't wait around for her, she would have surely come up with something else for us to do. Leaving out the door as quickly as I could I quickly made my way down the stairs. My mother followed behind but I didn't wait around. The dumb dress length made it slower for me to go down the stairs. Finally I reached the last set of stairs. As I took the last few steps I was greeted by my father's face, already there to meet me at the end.

"Back so soon?" Papa asked, as I took the final step onto the bottom floor.

They looked to be done with whatever conversation my father had planned. And judging by how prepared he had been to greet me I assumed he had been listening for us. I turned over to George, he was looking down at something near him. Knowing my father I was sure that was because of something he had said. I turned back to give my father a look as my mother finally came to join us down the stairs.

"Doesn't she look beautiful" my mother made the rest of her way to my father. He gave me a smile before turning to her.

"Ready?" he asked simply.

"Yes, dear" my mother called happily. Lovingly, she leaned the rest of the way towards him and hugged his arm. At that, my father turned his attention back to me.

"We're leaving. Is Draco coming over to keep you company like usual?"

"No, he isn't" I frowned at him a little more. Papa had to have known this would upset George or else he wouldn't have said it. From the corner of my eye I could see George was frowning at the floor already.

"Well just make sure he knows he is always welcome here."

"I'll let him know" I replied, trying to keep my tone light.

My father knew better than to accept my tone but my mother simply smiled. The second meaning of our words flying overhead as she turned to look up at my father. Papa gave her a warm smile in return and began leading her to the door. Without looking back the two headed out, walking towards the entrance. I followed after, gesturing to George to follow as well. Some of the staff stood waiting by the door already, opening it so my parents could pass. My mother glided along towards the exit but my father stopped. He paused a moment and turned back before calling out to us.

"Take care, Katerina. We won't be gone long" he added the last part a little louder than necessary.

Without saying a word in return I gave them a wave. Giving me a nod and a look my father turned back. My mother extended her hand towards him and the two exited through the main door. The two disappeared behind the closed doors and headed off towards their Ministry meeting, or whatever that was. I waited until the staff dispersed before moving closer to George. He had followed but had remained silent thus far. As I took the final step towards him he finally let out a breath.

"I feel cold inside" he muttered under his breath.

"You wanted to meet them" I smiled a little and grabbed his arm. He gave me a sigh but let out a small smile in return.

"You look nice. Really nice" he called, looking down at me, just realizing what my mother had done.

"Thanks" I gave him a sigh. At least that looked to have snapped him out of his trance.

"Is this how you normally dress outside of Hogwarts?" George asked, ignoring my tone and looking down at my clothes.

"Of course not. Although, this is how my mother wishes I would dress all the time" I answered and pulled him forward.

"I wouldn't mind, you know" he called, still looking down at me. I frowned back at him.

"I get it" I called stubbornly. George raised his hands in defense to my tone. I rolled my eyes at him in return. "Come on, let's head to the living room."

"Aren't we already in the living room?" he asked, looking behind him as if expecting to find something different.

"I suppose you could call it that" I shrugged and kept my pace, George followed. "Mostly this place is used for decoration. My mother likes it especially during celebratory times. That corner over there serves as a proper place for a decorative tree around Christmas. That and, it being so close to the kitchen, it makes for a speedy service of food."

"I see" he muttered, looking to where I had pointed. The tall ceilings and decorative staircase made for an appealing sight. "So you have two living rooms then?"

"Well, as I said, I don't really consider this much of a living room. The other is actually much better; that one has a fireplace and more seating. This I would consider more of a… lounge? It is small and convenient like one" I justified to myself.

Together we walked the rest of a way past the lounge and into the living room. While the previous room had a more cozy feel the living room had always felt more open. Not that my mother had a minimalist mindset when decorating the place, but the area was spacious enough to allow furniture sparingly. As we continued I noted he was walking slower than me, slower than usual. Being much taller it wouldn't normally take him so long to walk past me but I idled behind, allowing him as much. Having reached one of the sofas I took my seat and waited for him to take his.

"Huh" George muttered as he sat down.

"What?" I asked, a little amused at his expression. He was giving the place a slight frown, but not the angry kind. Mostly he looked confused.

"Exactly how many rooms do you have?"

"I'm not sure" I frowned a little, thinking it an odd question. "If you mean bedrooms then I would say… five? More or less that amount."

"That's not that many?' he nodded to himself thinking about it.

"That sounds about how many. Well, there is mine" I started counting them on my fingers. George smiled at me as I did. "Then there's my parents' room. We have three others that are empty. One used to be my brother's room. All his stuff is still there, though no one really goes in except once a month for cleaning. Other than that we have the two spares, just in case."

"Don't get many visitors?" George asked looking up, almost as if he could see through the ceiling.

"No, not really" I shrugged back. "We do get some visits every now and then. My mother doesn't talk much about her side of the family; I doubt I'll ever meet any of them. It's only those from my father's side, from outside of the country, that ever stop by. Still, it's not often. I'm starting to believe those rooms are only there so that my mother can fill them with different decorations she buys that I refuse to include in my room."

"So they're covered in pinks and frills" he commented and I chuckled at how close he actually was in his description. "Only five then…"

"More or less" I agreed. "Then there's my father's studies…"

"Studies? As in, more than one?" George asked, not sure if he heard correctly, but I nodded.

"He has one down the hall," I mumbled, "near the foot of the staircase. Papa mainly uses that one when he needs a quick and convenient place to discuss something. Another one is up on the third floor; that is his main office and where he keeps the more important documents. Then there is the one by their room which, again, is not as important but can be quite convenient."

"So eight?" he asked looking up with the same expression he had before.

"Then we have some other ones here and there, for hobbies and such. And then there's the library; it's the fourth floor."

"You mean on the fourth floor."

"No, it's the entire floor" I corrected him. "My parents remodeled it during their initial move. We have a rather large selection. They range from fairy tales to actual historical documents my father has gathered through the years. It's a good collection. Albeit some books are repeated, so my father and I don't have to argue about certain titles. My mother doesn't care much for them, though."

"Huh" George muttered again, looking around. He paused at the staircase and squinted a little before turning back. "You have a lot of floors."

George spent a minute or two mostly looking at his surroundings. I expected him to find this place strange but not to this extent. Still, I let him have the time to get comfortable with the idea. It took a while but his attention eventually shifted to my dress, temporarily forgetting his curiosity with the layout of my home. His expression made it seem as though he wanted to say something but he didn't comment on my dress. That was probably smart. However, I had a question of my own.

"So, what did my father have to say while I was gone?" I asked him. George's expression suddenly shifted.

"I don't want to talk about it" he said quietly and scooted closer to me. I let out a sigh.

"At least he didn't kill you."

"Please stop saying that. The more you say it, the more I believe you're not joking" George groaned and rested his head on my shoulder. I giggled at him and moved to pat his head. "So how did it go with your mother?"

"How does it look like it went?" I asked, giving him a look. George turned over to give me a smile.

"Great, actually" he answered with a smirk. "Why don't you dress up like this more often?"

"Why don't you?" I shot back. George chuckled and pulled away from my shoulder.

"Unlike yours, my mother isn't the type to buy me pretty dresses or send me on shopping trips with schoolmates" he called as I rolled my eyes. George wrapped an arm around my waist and pulled me slightly closer. "You do look really nice."

"You've said that" I shot him a look.

"If they bother you so much then why not just take them off?" George smiled playfully. I frowned back at him.

"Because, my mother would throw a fit if she saw me without this dress" I replied, thinking that should have been obvious enough. George let out a small laugh and leaned in.

"You are so cute" he grumbled and kissed my cheek. "But really, if you are uncomfortable just go change and then change back before they return."

"They're not necessarily uncomfortable" I mumbled looking down at myself again. "The fabric is nice and the fit is fine, they're just inconvenient."

"Sure are" he agreed in a low voice and pulled me closer. I rolled my eyes at him, not even bothering to ask.

"Besides, anytime I wear something like this now my mother assumes I'm going someplace with them. It's rather annoying really" I frowned at the floor.

"Sounds terrible" he nodded against my shoulder. I tapped the back of his head and he smiled back at me.

"Well, speaking of family, how is yours doing?"

"Fine" George answered, his tone suddenly changing. Instead of his usual carefree tone he now had a stiff and guarded one. Noting that I stood up.

"It's getting boring in here. Let's take a walk around the grounds?" I only half asked.

I extended a hand to him as a signal. Not verbally answering my question George nodded and stood, following after me. Letting go of his hand I led the way out of my home. We walked a little ways out past the outer edges of the garden. I waited until there was considerable distance between us and the manor before speaking again.

"So, how is your family?"

"You already asked that" George reminded me.

"I know," I nodded back at him, "but you didn't really answer me. What are you hiding from me?"

"What makes you think I'm hiding something?" George mumbled but hid his look from me.

"Would you like a list?" I asked. George began to speak but I interrupted him. "For one, there is your tone of voice. Two, you refuse to look directly at me. Three, your posture is stiff, signaling stress which you wouldn't be feeling if you were being completely truthful. Four, you insisted you would spend all of summer holiday with me yet this is the second time we've seen each other in months. And five, I'm not an idiot."

At the last of my points, we stopped walking. George looked down at me for a moment. Extending a hand, he laced his fingers with the hand I had been using to signal my points. He let out a sigh and looked off to the side. With a small frown, I took our linked hands and pulled him to the side, to a spot for us to sit in. As I began to lean down George pulled me back. Before I could ask, George started to take off his cloak. He placed it on the grass in front of us before gesturing me to sit. Silently, I gave him a look.

"It's a nice dress" George told me with a small smile. I rolled my eyes at him but sat.

"Now will you talk?"

"It's… complicated" he began, getting comfortable next to me. He extended an arm behind him for leverage as I waited. A moment passed before either of us said anything until, finally, he sighed. "I can't really talk about it."

"Why not?" I pouted at him. "You've already told me a lot."

"And still that wasn't enough?" he said down to me. George scooted closer, making it so that he was sitting on his cloak as well. "There are just some things I can't really say. It was hard enough convincing my mother to let me visit. She only agreed after I told her you had already told your parents. I guess she didn't want to be disrespectful to them."

"So you won't tell me" I grumbled, knowing it was the truth. George answered my look with a dramatically repentful look of his own.

"I'm sorry, I just can't. Don't hate me" he pouted and placed his face against mine. I rolled my eyes but let out a smile as he nuzzled himself next to me.

"I don't hate you. But I find this lack of information very annoying."

"I know, I'm sorry" he called softly as I looked down at him.

"No, you're not" I argued. George let out a smile and gave me a quick kiss.

"I am, mostly" he shrugged at the last bit.

I turned up at him with a look to his nonchalant behavior. George gave me a smirk and wrapped an arm around my waist. He slowly pulled me in, giving me a kiss with each movement, each one lasting a little longer than the last. George continued to kiss me, that is until we heard some grumbling coming just before us. I pulled away from him to see Lev sitting back watching us. That seemed to remind George of where he was as I felt him pull back a bit, shifting slightly from me.

"What is it, Lev?" I asked. With a grumble, Lev swatted at my foot.

I reached down and brought my puppy up to me. Lev moved his nose closer to me and sniffed my face softly. Scratching his face lightly I gave him a smile. Next to me, George leaned a little closer to my side. Lev began to rub against my arm. George grabbed a bit of my hair between his fingers, Lev pawed gently at my face. Suddenly I began to notice a few unexpected things… There was two of them.

"What is it?" George smiled, noting my expression.

"Nothing" I let out a sigh, reaching over to scratch Lev's head.

"Come on, what?" he asked again, leaning in a little closer to me. Noting the movement, Lev let out a low growl.

"Stop it" I scolded, and tapped Lev's nose. But he continued to do so, regardless of my warning.

"What is it, boy?" George asked him, as if somehow forgetting who he was talking to. Lev's growl grew a little louder but that somehow didn't stop George from leaning towards him. I gave him a frown.

"George I wouldn't—"

Before I could finish a proper warning Lev lunged for him. George let out a swear before pulling his hand in towards his chest. Lev jumped out of my grip as I moved closer to inspect it. Gingerly he let go of his hand to show me the damage. The cut wasn't too deep, but it had drawn blood, a decent amount of it. I turned to scold my puppy but he was no longer there. Lev had rushed away before I could get him in trouble. With an aggravated sigh, I stood myself up and extended a hand to George. I leaned down to grab his coat, instructing him to wrap it around the bite before leading him out of coverage. Waiting until we were out in the open, I took a few steps away from George and took in a deep breath.

"Attendance! Now!" I called out as loudly as I could.

I turned my attention back to George, looking to see if his hand was still bleeding. He gave me a curious look but, after a second, he understood why I had done so. Several of the staff stood in attendance as a few looked to be on their way. Normally I didn't rush the staff but I didn't know how bad the bite was, and they were trained for this for a reason. Depending on how he had intended it, Lev's bites ranged from 'just a scratch' to injuries which required severe medical attention. Taking that into consideration, I didn't want to take any chances.

"Yes, miss Katerina?" one of them spoke up, now that they were all gathered. Some of them kept their gaze fixed on me, while others had their attention to George's hand. It seemed like just a bite so far. Letting go of his hand I turned back to give them their orders.

"Lev is annoyed, I'm assuming it has to do with his stomach. Have Bonny give him something to eat, then put him in his dog house. I will deal with him later" I mumbled, looking to where I was sure he had run off to. Some of the servants gave me a grim nod as the ones I had pointed to left for their assigned job. The others waited silently. "I will also be needing a batch of Agrimonia and a clipping of Verbena, I'm running low upstairs. If I need anything else I will call; that should be all for now."

Turning my back to them I moved to look at George. I took his arm, thinking it better than to grab his hand directly. George looked down at me for a moment with an odd expression. It took me a moment, and the sound of someone clearing their throat, to realize why that was. I turned back around to find a number of the staff still standing there. For a moment they hesitated but, finally, one spoke.

"Upstairs, miss?" one of them called out timidly. None had moved, and they all seemed to be waiting to hear my reply. I let out a frown.

"Yes" I stated, wondering if there was something confusing about the orders. "He's hurt and Lev ran away before he could fix it. Therefore I'm taking him up to my room and brewing a healing potion, hence why I need the Agrimonia and Vervain."

"Are you sure?" another asked, making my frown deepen. At this point it was like they weren't even listening.

"Yes, that's why I said it" I proclaimed, starting to get annoyed. It still looked like they wanted to argue but relented. Two moved towards the garden to get the necessary supplies; the rest were dismissed.

Ignoring the others I led George upstairs. He cradled his hand against his chest and followed after. We continued all the way up and to my room. I opened the door for us and gestured for him to take a seat on my bed. Not saying anything George did what I asked and waited as I began the potion. And, of course, we were followed. A few of the staff paced around the top floor as if looking for something. After the fifth time one of them just 'happened' to pass by I decided they might as well be put to use. I asked for some tea and snacks for us while we waited for the herbs to be brought. They nodded and complied but it didn't look like that was the reason they had been lingering. After, I returned to where George was waiting for me.

"He has sharp teeth" George commented, flinching as I tried to clean the wound.

"Of course he does" I answered, smiling a little at his reaction. "He may be a magical dog but he still needs his other means of defense."

George seemed to think about that for a moment as I moved back to the brew. The orange liquid was beginning to bubble into a lighter shade of purple. I frowned down at the mixture. I needed the other ingredients before it turned into a darker blue or else the whole batch would turn sour. But, as if reading my irritated thoughts, one of the staff knocked on my opened door.

Tea was brought in for us, placed on the small table I had next to my reading chair. As the treats were set down another of the staff walked in after, in her hands a small basket of herbs. She walked closer and set the basket down beside me on my work desk. Excusing themselves the two walked out of the room, leaving us to our work. Albeit, that was not before one gave George a long look. I frowned for a moment as George simply waved back. Pretending not to see him the two completed their way out of the room, leaving the door open behind them. Not wanting to bother with whatever was causing the staff to act so strange I walked to the door and closed it. Turning back, I made my way towards George, just as he finished giving himself a nod.

"Makes sense" George mumbled.

"What makes sense?" I mumbled, looking at his hand carefully. It looked clean aside from some otherwise smeared blood. He'd survive.

"Just the reaction" George half answered, nodding to the door as I walked back towards the brew. The injury wasn't too deep, one strand of vervain should suffice.

"The reaction to what?" I frowned a little, seeing as he still hadn't answered me. George simply smiled at me.

I rolled my eyes and ignored him for the moment, deciding it was more important to finish the brew. Gathering the herbs I began to grind them down, into a fine powder. Stirring in the mixture I waited for it to froth before pulling it from the fire. I placed the now complete brew into a separate dish. Once it settled I picked something from my desk and brought the small bowl of it to him.

"Careful" I warned, holding the brew in front of him. George smiled at me and placed his hand in the mixture. Almost immediately his face changed and, from that, he pulled his hand hastily away. He made a face and looked at his hand before turning to me, that look still set on his face. "I did say be careful."

"You could have been a little clearer" he grumbled at me, before pausing. Realizing what he was saying, George looked back at me and narrowed his eyes. "Okay, fine, very clever. I'll be more clear from now on, but did you really have to hurt me to prove your point?"

"Thank you" I smiled down at him, ignoring the latter comment. Grabbing the fabric square I had taken from my desk, I extended it to him. "Cover your injury in that. That fabric is dense enough that it will dilute the effects of the potion, so it'll still heal you, without that burning sensation."

"Thanks" he mumbled a bit and took it.

George wrapped the cloth around his hand gingerly. Still looking hesitant he grabbed the bowl from me and slowly placed his now wrapped hand into the mixture. While he continued to look surprised at the change in sensation I turned back to my work desk for cleaning. Instead of just waiting around for him to feel better it would do well to take preemptive action. It didn't take too long to clear the area, most of the work was in putting the fresh herbs in their proper storage. Whatever was left of the brew I placed in a flask before finishing the area. After labeling and storing the leftover potion I turned back to George who was still looking at the brew curiously.

"Did you learn this from your volunteer work? How is that going by the way? I don't think I've asked yet" he mentioned, turning his hand a bit to look at it.

"You haven't, but it's going well" I smiled and sat next to him on the bed. "And I only learned this partly from them. I knew the basic structure of the potion but the cloth part was their idea. Normally I would just dilute the potion until bearable, or leave it as is, but this works as a middle ground to that process."

"So they're only teaching you how to make healing less painful?" George chuckled. For a moment he paused before letting out a more pronounced laugh. "Actually, now that I think about it, that seems about right."

"I will take that cloth away from you" I threatened but George simply smiled back. I rolled my eyes at him and got up from the bed, walking over to the small table to serve myself a drink.

After waiting a few minutes, and finishing a cup of tea, I took the potion away from George. It usually didn't take so long for a simple open wound but, considering it was Lev that had caused it, I wanted to take some precautions. George handed me the brew as I traded his damp cloth for a dry one. I took his hand and dabbed at the wound until it looked a little better. There were some red marks left but the wound was properly sealed up. I smiled to myself and got up to finish the last of the cleaning up. George remained sat, running his fingertips across the newly healed skin. He took in a long breath before letting out a sigh.

"Lev really does hate me, doesn't he?" George asked, flexing his hand briefly before putting it down. I shot a smile at him.

"Apparently" I agreed, walking to the foot of the bed. "Don't worry about that too much. You're not the first person he's bitten, and I'm sure you won't be the last either. Honestly, you should feel lucky; your bite wasn't nearly as bad as the worst one I've seen him give."

"Well I feel better" he called out sarcastically. George made a face and threw himself back against the bed. Watching him I gave a small laugh.

"You look comfortable."

"I am, actually" he admitted, staying exactly as he was. Turning his expression towards me, he gave me a smile before suddenly letting out a pause.

Sitting up slowly George began to look at the room around him. He took a moment to inspect the area, glossing over my work desk to the dresser where the vanity was placed. It must have just occurred to him where we were. Letting that sink in for him for the moment I finished organizing some of the things on my desk. I wasn't in any form of a hurry and I still believed that this place was the kind that needed to be eased into. George let out a small sound then threw himself back again, returning to the position he had been in. Seeing him do that, I let out a smile.

"You know, this bed is big enough" George called, turning his head to give me a sly smile. "Care to join me?"

"No, thank you, I'm not really tired" I shook my head, returning from organizing the last of the recipe books.

"You're not tired" George repeated slowly before giving me an abrupt laugh. "I just don't understand you sometimes?"

"Because I'm not tired?"

"How are you so brilliant, amazing at reading people and their intentions, yet somehow when it comes to something as simple as this you're so… unperceptive" he nodded to himself after a moment, having found the appropriate word. I frowned back.

"Because I'm not tired?" I repeated.

"That is exactly what I mean" he grinned and sat back up. I rolled my eyes as he reached for my hand. George pulled me gently closer to him, placing me to stand between his legs. He continued to smile at me as I continued to frown back.

"What exactly am I not being perceptive about?" I asked, watching as he pulled my hand in to kiss it.

"You know… things" he replied with a shrug. I gave him a look but he just pulled me closer towards him. George let out a small laugh at my expression.

"Do you want me to make a more concentrated potion next time?" I threatened, holding up his previously injured hand as a reminder. At the thought, George's face made a grimace, but he managed to smile through it.

"Miss Volkov?" a voice called to us from one end of the room. From the doorway, one of the servants stood waiting. Next to him a girl held a tray, varying in sweets and other snacks from the kitchen. As she moved to place the tray near the tea set he turned to give George a suspicious look. "Miss, Alla asked us to bring these for you. She wishes for you to have something in regards to dinner. But, of course, if you desire anything else simply let us know and we will make it."

"Great, I was wanting something to go with the tea. Thanks" I smiled as the girl went to join him back at the door.

"Yeah, great" George mumbled, standing from the bed. Without explaining his tone he started to walk away, over to where the food had been placed.

"Our pleasure. Please, let us know if we can be of any more service" he gave a nod, but not before giving George another dubious look. The two exited the room, leaving the door open behind them.

"See, now that guy was perceptive" George mumbled to himself, placing one of the provided cookies into his mouth.

"Perceptive to what?" I frowned.

"Exactly" he gave me a nod. I made a face at him which only made him laugh. At that, he leaned down to give me a kiss. Ignoring whatever he was trying to elude to I stood next to him and grabbed a snack for myself.

Normally I didn't like eating in my room but I would much rather do this here and risk a mess than spend time with George out in the open. I was sure my father had given certain instructions which I would not have approved of, so I didn't want to risk it. Instead, I took a moment to just talk with George. We had been away for a few months and though we had only spent one summer together before it still felt strange to be so far away for so long. It still felt strange to me, having another person I actually cared about seeing and keeping in touch with. That was probably one of those things couples just experienced I suppose. While contemplating whether or not I should serve myself a third serving of tea a knock came from the opened door.

"Come in" I called but stayed looking at the tea tray, still trying to decide whether I wanted seconds or not. George looked at the door and frowned slightly at it. Curious, I looked up to find one of my house-elves, fidgeting with a box in her hands. Antsy as always. "What is it, Bonny?"

"Oh, yes, Miss. Excuse me, Miss. Gift for you from Young Master Malfoy, Miss" Bonny stumbled out her words, still fiddling with the package. Placed in between the ribbon was a neatly tucked letter. At the sight of it, I let out a sigh.

"Again?" I frowned at the letter. Bonny nodded at me, as if I meant the question directly towards her. I gave her a nod back. "Alright, just place it on my work desk. I'll see to it shortly. Has Lev been fed?"

"Yes, Miss. He is in his dog house and waiting. Bonny will watch him, Bonny will."

Bonny nodded her head several more times as she set the gift down and shuffled to the door. After fidgeting under the threshold for a minute I gave her a nod and she excused herself out of the room. With a sigh to her, I turned back to find George frowning. He wasn't looking at her anymore but at the box on my desk. I refrained from giving him another sigh. Instead, I turned myself back to my previous conundrum, not looking up from the tea set even after I felt George's look shifting to me. Not wanting to turn right away I waited to see if he would look away. He didn't. Giving an internal groan I tore my eyes from the tea and looked up at him.

"Yes?"

"He been sending you a lot of these lately?" George asked with a frown. For a moment I stood confused before remembering what had been said. I gave him a shrug.

"He's just wanting to make up for being an idiot" I answered and took a cookie from the tray. George looked at it before looking back up at me.

"He's always an idiot" George grumbled at me. Again, I stopped myself from rolling my eyes. "So what did he do this time?"

"He was just… being difficult during his birthday party" I mumbled, not wanting to get into the details of it with him.

I had to have a talk with Draco the day after his party had happened. In the beginning, I tried getting him to explain his actions but whenever I mentioned it he insisted that I was exaggerating, or he simply insisted that he didn't remember. I wasn't and he did. For the most part, he didn't listen too much to my complaints, just made complaints of his own. Either I was too loud and giving him a headache or my nagging was ruining the remnants of his birthday celebration. But it served him right. I didn't try too hard to get him to listen after that and, having known me this long, he knew too well how dangerous silence could be.

"Birthday…" George let out a grunt. "What, is he finally in the double digits now?"

"He's fifteen; we're nearly the same age" I gave him a look. George rolled his eyes.

"Could've fooled me" he grumbled and took a sip of his drink. I let out a smile, making him give me a sigh. "So he's been sending you a lot of gifts then?"

"More like bribes" I corrected. "Like I said, he was being an idiot, about a good few things. So I've been thinking of a proper punishment for him. Knowing that, he's been trying to get on my good side, before I make any concrete decisions."

"You're going to punish him?"

"Well, he needs the discipline. Besides, his parents certainly aren't going to do it" I made a face. Draco was spoiled for a reason, that reason being mainly his mother.

"You know what would be a great punishment? If you stopped talking to him" George smiled at me. I rolled my eyes at him.

"I appreciate the suggestion, but I have a few good things in mind. Besides, I'll need someone to talk to on the trip" I shook my head at him. At that, George took a pause.

"Trip?" he asked suddenly. "What trip?"

"I told you already, the trip to Bulgaria" I reminded him.

"What?" George called suddenly, standing up in a hurry. I gave him a surprised look as his frown deepened. "He's going with you to Bulgaria?"

"Yes, of course he is" I called back, but that only seemed to anger him more.

"What do you mean, 'of course he is'?"

"How did you not know about this?" I asked, legitimately curious. "You already threw a fit when I told you I was going on this trip."

"That was because I didn't think it right for you to go alone" George frowned down at me.

"You thought I would be stupid enough to travel to the other end of the continent by myself?" I gave him a frown.

"Makes more sense than taking Malfoy with you" he gave me a look back, but I shook my head at him.

"How?" I crossed my arms at him. "How does that make more sense?"

"It just does" he insisted. "You are not going with him to Bulgaria!"

"First of all, lower your voice" I stated slowly. George let out a frown but paused from his lecture. I looked to the closed door and waited. No sound came, no footsteps. Thankfully it didn't seem like anyone was listening. With a sigh, I turned back to George. "I don't like being spoken to that way, and I especially do not approve of it being done in my own home."

"Well, how do you want me to respond?" George asked me in a lower but now gruffer voice. I shook my head at him.

"I'm going, that has been decided. And I am going with Draco. It's not my fault that you forgot" I gave him a look. That didn't help much with his mood either.

"Oh, trust me, I didn't forget. I would have remembered that part of our conversation" George called down to me roughly.

I let out a sigh. Not answering right away I took a moment to look around. This room wasn't built for these kinds of arguments. This wasn't the place for yelling. There was another room in the house that was more useful with this type of situation. But I would rather avoid it if at all possible. I looked back up at George, his face still set in annoyance. Looked like avoiding the argument wouldn't be a possibility this time around.

"Are you planning on continuing this irrational discussion?" I asked him, wanting to know so that I could prepare.

"Irrational?" he repeated in a tone. So apparently he was.

"Fine, if you insist" I replied, now a little annoyed.

Turning away from him, I walked towards the exit. Pausing for a moment I waited at the door before opening it, needing to make sure that no one was around. George came to join me as I opened it and we both stepped out. Silently I led the way, down the staircase and to the appropriate room. Luckily we didn't meet anyone on the way there as I opened the door, allowing both of us inside. I turned back to George, now ready to end this argument.

"This is a more appropriate place to continue your screaming. So, if you insist on continuing with this topic, you may do so here" I said, giving him a look.

"You've been lying to me" George frowned, stepping closer to me.

"How so?" I asked, maintaining the necessary calm between us. That only seemed to upset him more.

"You said you were visiting Krum for a few weeks. Fine, I got that, you wanted to see your friend. I wasn't happy with you going so far away by yourself, but I understood it. But," he went on, running a hand through his hair, "you just so happened to forget to mention that you're taking Malfoy with you!"

"Shouldn't that make you happy? Now I won't be by myself" I reminded him. George gave me a look, making me sigh. "Keeping information isn't in itself a lie."

"So when you keep things it isn't lying" he called accusingly. "But when I don't want to share a family secret, I'm in the wrong!"

"I never said you were lying, nor did I say you were in the wrong. If I asked you a question and you decided to keep the truth from me I would be aggravated, yes, but I would not call you a liar" I raised my voice a little. "We're only going to be gone a couple of weeks."

"That'll still be more than enough time for that git" he frowned down at me.

"Time for what?" I asked but he didn't answer.

George may not have been verbally saying anything but his posture said enough. His posture was rigid, his jaw was set, and his breathing looked shallow on his chest. There was practically no space between us, George looking down at me with a serious expression. I gave him a sigh but stood my ground. He was blaming me for whatever irrational reaction he was having, as if it was my fault he was so emotional.

"Why are you taking this so personally? Why do you always take these things so personally?" I complained, crossing my arms at him.

"You honestly don't see why I would be upset that you spend several days, weeks, away on vacation with Malfoy?"

"No, I don't" I frowned at him. George frowned back at me.

"You will be gone, with Malfoy, several countries away for a good couple of week and you don't see anything wrong with that?" he persisted, making me a little annoyed.

"I've already said that I don't" I repeated a little louder, seeing as he obviously wasn't listening. Still, that didn't look to be the answer he wanted to hear. George shook his head, causing my frown to deepen. "Why are you so against our friendship?"

"Because it's not just a friendship that git wants!" George raised his voice at me. My eyes narrowed in response.

"Are you serious?" I asked him. He began to speak once more but I interrupted him. "This is about your jealousy issues again? Are you kidding me?"

"It's not about me being jealous, it's about him knowing where his place is! About the boundaries that you seem to be ignoring! The—"

"Oh, please, go on" I interrupted giving him a look. "Tell me of these so called boundaries you believe are deserved to place between me and my best friend."

"I just think—"

"That you know how I should run my life better than I do. No, I understand that" I finished for him. George let out a sigh.

"Katerina," George extended a hand, trying to undo my crossed arms, "listen to me."

"No, you listen to me" I snapped back at him, pulling away from his grasp. "I am tired of this same argument. I am tired of you finding something wrong with the way I spend my time and my life with my best friend. And putting aside your undeserved jealousy—"

"Undeserved?" George interrupted me with a frown, not understanding his own stupidity.

"Yes, undeserved" I insisted. From the look he was giving me it seemed he still couldn't see why he was wrong. I let out a breath and decided to show him. "Tell me, George, how many girls do you know?"

"What does that have to do with anything?" he asked, though slightly wary of my tone.

"Humor me" I continued to give him a look.

"I don't know, I know a lot of people" he mumbled out an answer.

"Fine, let's narrow it down" I complied. "How many girls have you known for, let's say, at least five years."

"I don't know—"

"Guess" I insisted. George gave a small frown at my tone but obliged.

"A few, maybe six or seven" he grumbled in his response.

"Do I know all of them?" I continued. He gave me a curious look at that before shaking his head.

"No—"

"Do you speak to at least a couple of them on a regular basis? For argument's sake, let's say that 'regular' is a few times a week while at school and the occasional letter during holiday."

"Yeah, I guess—"

"Now, tell me," I spoke slowly, taking a step closer to him, "why have I never heard of any of these girls before now?"

"What?" George asked, looking surprised at the question.

"It's a legitimate question. You have a girl in your life, whom you speak to regularly and have known for an arguably long amount of time, yet this is the first time we have spoken of her. Now, why would that be? Shouldn't I know about this girl?" I insisted, giving him the same look. At that, he seemed to grasp the comparison more fully.

"That is completely different" George argued.

"How so?" I asked, taking another step towards him.

"We're just friends. You have nothing to worry about" he answered, just as I had hoped he would.

"Oh, you are? Oh, how silly of me" I placed a hand against my chest as a sign of relief. "For a moment I was sure you were in a relationship with several of us. My mistake. If you're just friends then why don't I just drop the whole thing, seeing as this in no way relates to my friendship with Draco. You know, since we're obviously in a committed relationship that I've been hiding from you the entirety of the time we've known each other. Silly me."

"You're being ridiculous" George said with a sigh down to me.

"So you finally know what this all sounds like to me."

"This… That's not…" he stumbled out the beginnings of some excuse but couldn't find the proper way to phrase it.

"I don't know what I find more absurd" I shook my head at him. "That you're jealous of my best friend or that you don't trust me."

"I do trust you. But I don't trust him" George growled at the last word. I shook my head at him and raised my hands.

"Fine, let's put aside the fact that we're best friends" I allowed. "Let's even forget about the fact that he currently has a girlfriend whom he's been with for several months. What if, by some unknown factor, Draco decided to tell me he actually wanted to date me. What do you think would happen next, George?"

"I don't know," he called back in a low voice, "that's what scares me."

"Well, do you believe I wouldn't know how to handle the situation?" I offered but he shook his head. "Then do you believe that I would willingly be with anyone that would have me? That I would throw myself at him just because he told me I was pretty?"

"No, of course not—"

"Then why is this always an issue?" I growled at him.

"You deserve—"

"Don't tell me what I deserve! Don't tell me what you think I deserve" I snapped back at him, making him take a step back. "I don't like being told what to do, you should know that by now. I especially don't like being treated like a child. I know how to behave myself. I know when a relationship is worth keeping and, if any in my life ever has, this one is. Yes, he has his issues, so do I, and so do you—"

"Issues?" George asked suddenly. "What are my issues?"

"You don't see anything wrong with trying to dominate just when, and how, your girlfriend can see her friends?" I asked, though rhetorically. "Or, better yet, which ones she is allowed to keep and which she should be rid of?"

"I'm just doing this because—"

"Because you care about me. Because that's what you think is best. Yes, you've said that" I called, throwing my arms up. "Well that's all good and dandy until you realize that, lo and behold, I am capable of making my own decisions.""

"It's more complicated than that" George argued.

"Is it?" I gave him a look. " Do you realize that if I wasn't the stubborn person I am you would have turned me into someone else entirely by now? In fact, I've actually given you plenty of the things you've asked me for already. I've compromised a lot of things with you George, a lot of things. But one of those will not be whom I chose to spend my time with. I will not distance myself from my friends just because you don't 'approve'. Do we understand each other?"

"Katerina—"

"Do we understand each other?" I asked once again.

"It's more complicated than that" George repeated himself. I rolled my eyes at him. Before I could turn away George wrapped an arm around my waist and pulled me closer to him. "It is. It can't be explained so easily, alright. I love you, I trust you, I just don't trust him."

"It doesn't matter if you trust him or not" I insisted. "If you trust me then how you feel about him, or anyone else for that matter, shouldn't be important. If you can, explain to me why this is such an issue."

"Because…" he began but didn't finish his thought. I looked at him for a moment before rolling my eyes again.

"Really, very detailed explanation. Glad we got that out of the way" I added as much sarcasm as I could into my voice.

George looked down at me with a frown. He was still very obviously vexed, his body language saying exactly what it had been a few moments ago. Annoyed, he placed a hand on either side of my face to look at me. As he did he used a tad bit too much force and pressed my cheeks together ever so slightly. With that simple gesture, his posture changed. His body relaxed a little as his expression melted into one of slight amusement. I narrowed my eyes at him but it only seemed to make his smile grow more.

"You know, I'm finding it very difficult to stay mad at you."

"I think I've heard that before" I commented, or at least tried to. George still had his grasp on my face. With that same amused expression, he made a sound and leaned down towards me. But before he could kiss me I pulled away from his grip. "Wait."

"What? Are you still mad?" George asked, his tone suggesting that our argument hadn't happened just seconds ago. Regardless, I ignored that.

"No, no it's not that. I just… I don't want to be doing this here of all places…" I mumbled a reply and turned my expression to the ground.

"Why not?" George asked before turning his attention to the room around us.

Right beside us was the bookshelf, one large and spacious which encompassed the entirety of the wall surrounding its main door. In it was mostly school text, from school years past as well as a few interesting reads. Scattered among them were a few academic awards and souvenirs from distant lands. Most of the room was dark, the candle on the bedside table being the only form of light available. Next to it, as its name would suggest, was a large bed old and unchanged. Not that the room was dusty, it had its mandatory cleaning every couple of weeks. But I didn't need to look up to know that it was all still there, exactly the way he had left it. Nobody could change a thing, or touch anything for longer than necessary. This was Nikolai's room.

"This was my brother's room."

I looked up just in time to see George's bewildered expression. He began to look around the room once more, as if he hadn't already done so. Albeit, in context, the place probably looked far different. Waiting for him to process that information completely I moved across the room to the nearby bed. I sat down and let out a breath just as George found the smallest bit of composure.

"Why did you bring us here to argue?" George asked with a baffled tone. I opened my mouth to answer but paused. The truth was…

"I don't know" I replied, flattening the duvet from under me. "I have always come here when I want to be alone. My mother and father avoid this place like the plague. The staff only come between once or twice a month for cleaning. And, while he was still around, my brother placed a charm on his room to prevent sound from exiting the place. You could be screaming at the top of your lungs and no one would know a thing."

"So it makes for a good place to argue" George surmised.

"Yeah" I replied in an airy tone. At that, he gave me a sigh. George moved closer, sitting next to me on the bed. Wrapping an arm around my shoulder he pulled me closer, moving me gently towards him.

"I'm sorry" he called softly. I turned to look up at him.

"Sorry for…" I let the sentence hang, giving him the hint. He gave me a pout and turned his attention forward.

"Okay, I'm not sorry."

"Then don't say you are" I sighed, having guessed as much. With a pat to his arm, I pulled myself from him and stood up. I waited a moment before extending a hand to him; he took it and stood as well. "You're obviously still upset about me going on this trip."

"I told you I was alright with the visit. What I wasn't alright with was the sudden revelation that you're taking that brat along with you" George narrowed his eyes at the thought.

"Really you should know by now that arguing with me gets you nowhere" I gave him a shrug as he continued to look displeased with it. For another moment he kept the expression but looking at me he let out a smile.

"Yes, yes I should" he spoke quietly. I took hold of his hand as George gave me a small smile and led him out of the room.

Making sure no one was around I pulled the two of us away from the door and hurried down the corridors to the stairs. It was of the utmost importance we not be seen on the way back to the room. For one, it would be bad if they knew we had been around the manor even more unsupervised. But, aside from that, I just didn't want my parents knowing how often I went into Nikolai's room. They had let it be thus far but I was afraid that could easily change that.

Once back in the safety of my own room I closed the door behind us and let out a sigh. Relieved to be back to safety I made my way towards the still warm tea and grabbed myself a serving before sitting down. Both of us had calmed down a considerable amount but I could still feel the argument lingering overhead. I chose to ignore it, as I'm sure George did too, as that was one topic I did not want to start on again. I was definitely going, he knew that. Draco was going, George definitely knew that. The only thing that bringing up that argument would do is leave one of us angry and the other frustrated.

George and I sat and talked for a while. He wouldn't tell me any more details about what was happening back home but he did speak about his family. There were quite a few words he had to say about his brother, Percy, still refusing to apologize for the way he had acted. Other than that, however, it was the usual small talk banter. By the time we had finished the drinks and prosciutto crostini, the air felt lighter between us. I thanked the food for that.

"You know" George mumbled, leaning closer against me, "I really like that dress."

"If you give me your measurements I'm sure I could find one in your size" I answered, taking a sip of my tea. George let out a chuckle before pulling me closer to him.

"Well if it'll make me look half as good as you do right now, I may actually take you up on that."

George gave me a smirk before leaning down to kiss my cheek. I rolled my eyes at him. But before I could think of a reply to give him a knock interrupted us. George and I both turned in the direction of the door as Alla opened it. I frowned a little, noting she hadn't waited for my reply. She seemed to have noted that as well as she smiled apologetically but stayed where she stood.

"Just thought you should be aware that your mother and father have arrived. As I recall, your father was just behind me on the way up the stairs" she said, explaining her previous actions. I gave her a nod and Alla gave a warm smile in return before turning away. George, in term, stayed fixated on the spot she had been standing in before quickly sitting up.

"Relax" I let out a sigh at him and stood up as well. He gave me a small smile but there was still a nervous undertone in his expression. Before he could say anything a knock on the door made us stop.

"Am I interrupting something?" Papa called out to us from the opened door.

"Not really" I shrugged at him. He walked into the room, not bothering to wait for a reply and not so discretely bumping against George as he came towards me. My father gave me a smile and leaned down to kiss my forehead. I smiled back, glad the attention was moved to me at least to some degree. "How did it go?"

"As these things always go" he replied in a bland tone, but I noted his posture still looked stiff. "What were you two doing up here?"

"Well, Lev got annoyed and bit George. Being the smart pup he is Lev ran away before he could get in trouble or reverse the damage. I treated the wound myself, for practice and such. Then Phil brought some tea and sweets up to us. There are still some left, if you wanted a bite" I offered, gesturing to the side. By the look he was giving me it seemed like he had guessed that wasn't the entire truth, but he kept that to himself.

"I see. It's getting late, you need to leave" Papa called over to George. The man wasn't one for subtlety but George nodded immediately. My father narrowed his eyes at him and the swiftness of his agreeance. Even I couldn't tell if he had done so out of fear or guilt but it was definitely something.

"I'll see him out" I agreed and pulled George out of the room before my father could add another of his opinions.

With him in my arms I walked him down the stairs and out onto the grounds. My mother idled around the entrance, telling some of the staff where to place her newly purchased items. I was never really sure how she managed to buy even more with each passing event. At this rate, we would need to eventually add another expansion to the manor. George tightened his grip a little as we stepped onto the garden.

"I still say your father is a terrifying man" George mumbled, making me laugh.

"I would defend you but that would only make him hate you more. It's better for him to think I could care less about you, then he won't nag as much" I shrugged at him.

"Well, you're doing an excellent job" he grinned back. I gave him a look and he returned to me a small smile. George leaned in for a kiss but, thinking better of it, paused. He glanced back for a moment and after seeing we were still alone he kissed my cheek. "I was only joking, I know you care about me."

"Do you?"

"Yes, I do" he smiled down at me. "No matter how adorable I think you are I wouldn't be with someone who couldn't care less about me."

"I should hope you respect yourself more than that" I called up to him as George moved to hold my hands.

"Well… then again, you are really cute" he groaned and leaned down to kiss me again.

"I get it" I smiled a bit before pushing him back. "But really, you should go now."

"I know, it's late, but damn you look good in that dress" George said, not stepping back from me. I rolled my eyes at him.

"I didn't mean you should go because of the time. I meant it because, like I already told you, my father likes to have me supervised. The longer I stay out here the more likely he is to send someone to watch over me. Or, better yet, he'll decide to come himself…"

"I should leave as soon as possible, got it" he nodded and glanced back again, now understanding why he should be worried.

"You're the one who wanted to come" I reminded him.

"I know, and I'm glad I did… to an extent" he added after a second. I let out a giggle at that and George gave me a smirk. He leaned in to kiss me once more before pulling back. George let out a sigh. "Let me know how your trip goes."

"If I don't, I'm sure you'll remind me" I assured.

He gave me a grin for a moment before looking back. Putting in some more space between us he let out a sigh and walked a few paces forward. George gave me one more wave before disapparating. The loud pop rang and with that he was gone. I let out a breath, knowing what I would have to face once I was back home. Trying to ignore that thought I turned back and began walking to the manor. Not even halfway to the entrance, I saw my father waiting for me. Not hesitating at his presence I continued on my way.

"I must say," Papa began, as I stopped just in front of him , "it was rather convenient that he visit the only day this week in which your mother and I were otherwise engaged."

"It was, wasn't it" I smiled at my father.

"And he just happened to be late, not allowing us enough time to talk more in depth" Papa called down to me.

"Life is just full of surprises sometimes" I shrugged in return. My father answered me with a look.

"Now are you done with this unnecessary charade?"

"Not yet, but I'll let you know" I smiled and began to walk past him. With a small gesture, my father stopped me. Following the arm he had placed in front of me, I turned to look up at him. "What did you two talk about while mum and I were upstairs?"

"Just what I believe his role really is in this situation."

"And what would that be?" I frowned at him. This time, it was his turn to shrug.

"If I'm right, we'll soon find out. And if I'm not… I would be wrong about you" Papa looked down at me.

"And what does that mean?" I asked once more, this time with a slightly different tone.

"We'll know soon enough" my father answered with a small smile. I let out a sigh. Keeping his look Papa turned his attention behind him for a second before turning back. "Come, your mother wants to show you something she purchased at the auction. She thinks it will look nice in your room."

"Again? Wasn't this thing enough?" I groaned, pulling at my dress. The smile on my father's face grew at that.

"You know your mother. The more you protest, the harder she tries" he gave me a grin. "She truly is a marvelous woman."

"That's one way to put it…"

"Come now," my father gestured, ignoring the comment, "once you go visit Krum she'll have no one to do that with but me."

"The difference here being, you chose to marry the woman. At this point, it's your own fault" I grumbled and continued forward. Papa gave me a chuckle and led the rest of the way back.