AGH! It's been soooo long! I'm sorry!

DAtDA quickly became one of everyone's favorite class. There was only a few who didn't. Only Draco and his gang of Slytherins; they were the only ones who had anything bad to say about Professor Lupin.

I've often heard him say "Look at the state of his robes," As Professor Lupin would pass. "He dresses like our old house elf."

No one cared though. No one cared that Professor Lupin's robes were patched and frayed. His next few lessons were just as interesting as the first. After Boggarts, we studied Red Caps, nasty little goblin like creatures that lurked wherever there had been bloodshed; in the dungeons of castles and the potholes of deserted battlefields, waiting to bludgeon those who had gotten lost. After Red Caps, we moved onto Kappas, creepy water dwellers. They looked like scaly monkeys, their webbed hands though were always itching to strangle unwitting waders into their ponds.

After word of Neville's boggart taking shape of Professor Snape and him dressing him in his grandmother's clothes had travelled all over the school Potions got a bit out of hand. Professor Snape's eyes would flash menacingly at the very mention of Professor Lupin's name, worst of all he was bullying Neville worse than before.

But for someone who was terrified of Professor Snape I had to admit he was brave for facing him each class. No one ever gave him enough credit. Poor Neville.

I was excused from helping Professor Snape after all the detentions he's been giving out. He told me that if I really wanted to I could still come down but there wouldn't be much I could do. I still came down to see him and try and help whenever I saw an opportunity.

My least favorite class was Professor Trelawney's. I hated going to class and dreaded doing my homework for it. I'm waiting a month before I give up this class. I can't handle it. She was just so annoying and things she said never made any sense!

Care of Magical Creatures wasn't as fun as it was the first day. But I don't blame Hagrid for that. He's scared. His first lesson had ended up a disaster and now our lessons were just how to look after flobberworms. It was a rather boring creature but safe. And Hagrid assumed no one could get hurt from them.

"Why would anyone bother looking after them?" Ron asked after another hour of poking shredded lettuce down the flobberworms throat.

"Need them to be all good for potions I believe." I mused resting my head on Ron's shoulder as my Flobberworm slinked around my hand. So boring.

October started and everyone seemed to be excited for Quidditch to start. But it didn't stop Chester from being bullied.

Ron and I had tried to help by telling Professor McGonagall but it seems that only made it worse. Professor Snape had given me a wonderful idea though. Fight fire with fire.

"I would never condone a student to hex another in spite of revenge." He had spoken while rummaging through his own personal books. "And if that person were to be caught doing so they would be gravely punished." His eyes never left the books but his tone was giving off something different. It was like was telling me it would be okay if I got revenge on the students.

"Though if I were you, Miss Potter…" He paused thinking over something before speaking again. "I would check out some of the spells the library has to offer." He sent a smirk my way showing that was end of this conversation.

"Alright…Thank you Professor," I smile

So that's exactly what I did. I practiced extra hard on the spells when we had nothing to do, I was becoming quite good.

Not as good as Hermione, god no. I was never going to be as good as her. She's amazing. I wish I was as good as her. Chester and Annie were in the library when it started. I clenched my fist glaring at the smug Ravenclaw thinking he was better than Chester.

My wand was already out as I was practicing the wand motions when I saw them.

"Why are you even here? A Black isn't permitted to be on school grounds. I'm sure the Dementors were having a wonderful time whenever they come by you." His friends would snicker behind his back. Annie was twitching beside him trying not to yell.

"Why don't you get out of here? We're trying to study." She snapped. Her German accent made it somewhat difficult to understand.

"Having a second year fight your battles for you huh? Pathetic."

That's it! Pointing my wand in the Ravenclaw's direction I whispered "Cantis" and did the small wave of the wand and watched as the Ravenclaw started to sing.

It's wasn't a spell to use when dueling but it would help a bit.

"What the heck man? Why are you singing?" One of his friends asked.

He quickly shut his mouth, the look of confusion on his face. He tried to speak again but his song got louder. He wasn't even a good singer. And the more he tried to stop the louder he got. That didn't go well with Madam Pince.

As soon as she heard him singing she started to storm over to their direction. Giving them all a detention and shoving them out of her library with much hatred. Everyone knew not to get loud or speak above a whisper in her library. Madam Pince hated noise. A library was supposed to be quiet.

I smiled at my work. It wasn't bad, but I can do better. I will do better. I'll protect my friends not matter what.

Isn't that what friends do?

So, for the first two weeks of October I had been sticking around Chester like glue. Or around him and hexing all who bother him. I couldn't do much while he was in his dorm but I was able to keep an eye on him when I wasn't in classes.

Let's see I've used the Colloshoo spell, that one was funny to watch. I made this stupid Slytherin boy fall face first with that spell after his shoes were stuck to the floor.

The Furnunculus charm, that left a Gryffindor with nasty pimples all over their face. (I do not discriminate against my own house. They were being rude to Chester and I believe I did what was right.)

But not everyone was bad. There were some students who felt bad for Chester and did what they could for him. He really was a nice guy.

Harry seemed to think something was up when he walked into the Common room the third week of October. He's been working non-stop with Quidditch. Oliver, the Gryffindor captain was pushing the entire team extra hard so that Gryffindor could win the house cup. Our house has lost seven years in a row so far but with Harry on the team there a shoo in to win. Harry was the seeker and one of the most important players of the team.

Everyone was buzzing about excitedly about something, I didn't pay them any mind. It didn't matter anyway, I'd find out eventually. "What's happened?" Harry asked walking briskly over to our small group on the ground.

"First Hogsmeade weekend," Ron said pointing at a notice that had appeared on the battered old bulletin board. "End of October. Halloween."

"Excellent," Fred said excitedly as he and George followed Harry through the portrait hole. "I need to visit Zonko's. I'm nearly out of Stink Pellets."

I frown. I had a feeling it was for Hogsmeade.

Harry plopped himself into a chair behind me, his hand resting on my shoulder as if trying to comfort the both of us.

"I'm sure you'll be able to go next time," Hermione said as if reading Harry's mind. "They're bound to catch Black soon. He's been sighted once already."

"Black's not fool enough to try anything in Hogsmeade," Ron spoke. "Ask McGonagall if you guys can go this time. The next one might not be for ages…"

"Ron!" Hermione screeched. "Harry and Elizabeth are supposed to stay in school…"

"They can't be the only third years left behind," Ron argued. "Ask McGonagall, go on, Harry-"

"Yeah, I think I will," Harry said making up his mind. His hand squeezed my shoulder as if showing things would be alright and we'd be able to go. I didn't think so.

Hermione was about to argue, yet at that moment Crookshanks leapt lightly onto her lap. A large, dead spider was dangling from his mouth.

"Does he have to eat that in front of us?" Ron asked scowling down the ugly cat.

"Cleaver Crookshanks, did you catch that all by yourself?" Hermione said in a cooing voice, one you would use to talk to a baby. It was kind of cute to watch her be so affectionate toward the kitty.

Crookshanks; slowly chewed up the spider, his yellow eyes fixed insolently on Ron.

"Just keep him over there, that's all," Ron said rather irritably, turning back to his star chart. "I've got Scabbers asleep in my bag."

"I'm sure he can smell Scabbers. A cat's sense of smell is much better than our own. If you're worried Crookshanks is going to go after Scabbers, I'd put in in your room, some place Crookshanks won't get to."

I could tell Ron didn't like the idea of doing that, he'd rather have Scabbers on him than him be alone in his room. Scabbers was Ron's pet, friend, something that he found comfort in when he was nervous. I often found him holding him in his hands talking to him and looking him over worried.

Giving a soft smile, I reached out placing my hand on his watching as he looked up from his internal debate.

"He'll be okay, I'm sure of it." He didn't speak for a moment. I gave his hand a quick squeeze and he nodded. Standing up he picked up his bag glaring at Crookshanks as he left.

When he was out of ear shot Hermione huffed glaring at the red head. "Honestly he's so mean toward my Crookshanks. He's a cat! He's supposed to go after rats or mice. It's in his blood!" Hermione fussed, playing with Crookshanks ears to calm herself down most likely.

I wasn't sure what to say at that.

"Don't get too upset about it Hermione," Harry said shrugging his shoulders.

"How can't I?" She snapped. "He's always fussing over Scabbers. I understand that he loves him but it's not my fault if Crookshanks acts out." I frown.

Hermione really did love her cat.

"Don't take it personally, Ron is just bit of a baby. He focuses on that rat more than anything." George muttered walking over and plopping down on my right.

"Yeah he goes to that rat after almost everything. Talking to it, telling it his problems…" Fred said with a shrug.

"When did he get Scabbers?" I asked confused.

"After Percy came to Hogwarts. So, seven years ago." Fred said with a shrug.

It made sense now. Rats don't live long. If Ron had Scabbers for seven years then of course it would be his best friend. Scabbers could be, well, dying. With Crookshanks around it could be causing more problems than good for the little rat.

"…" I didn't know what to do. I couldn't say anything. Crookshanks rubbed up against my side affectionately. "You got to stop attacking Scabbers. It really bothers Ron." I whispered to the cat knowing fully well that he doesn't understand a word I was saying.

Ron returned bag in tow and took a seat on my left, glaring at the cat but doing nothing more. "You two trying to take Lizzy again?" Fred and George shrugged.

"Wanted to see how brighteyes was doing." Hermione reached her arms out as I handed her the cat. He purred happily to be in her arms again.

Harry had pulled his bag toward him, took out his parchment, ink, and quill, and started to work on his star chart.

Ron noticing this offered to let Harry copy.

"Harry needs to do his own homework. He can't just copy yours Ron."

I let out a small laugh. "Oh, just let them copy 'mione, Harry's been working all day with Quidditch. These two have been trying to convince me to get Professor Snape to back off for a while." I said pointing to Fred and George.

She let out a huff of annoyance but let it slide. Anyone could see that Harry was exhausted from practice.

Early the next day the four of us were headed to breakfast when it happened. Crookshanks attacked Ron. Claws extended, digging into his flesh. Ron's howl of pain was heard throughout the halls as he tried to shake the cat off.

While doing so Scabbers slipped away and started running away. Crookshanks after seeing that his prey was out in the open released Ron and dashed after Scabbers.

"Catch that rat!" he yelled to any one that was in ear shot. A Gryffindor boy dived after Scabbers just missing him. Scabbers dashed under a door to a closet, Crookshanks slowed to a stop and started to paw under the door for said rat.

"Get that monster out of here!" Ron yelled glaring at Hermione as if it was her fault.

"Cat's chase rats Ron! How was I to know that…"

"Oh, come off it Hermione. You only got that cat because you knew I hated it!"

"I got Crookshanks because I loved him! It's not my fault that you carry him all around and that Crookshanks is doing what a cat does." She growled out.

Harry and I watched them banter back and forth.

I quickly pick up Crookshanks and start to walk back to the dormitory "I'll come with." Harry said rushing to my side.

"Why does he always have to fight with her?" I asked a sad sigh escaping me.

"I don't know…I wish they wouldn't."

I felt the cat happily purr in my arms as we walked closer and closer to the portrait hole. "It does seem that Crookshanks has it out for Scabbers though, doesn't it?" I asked after a few minutes of silence.

"In a way, but it probably has to do with him being a cat and all." I laughed with him.

"Remember the stray cat I fed back at the Dursley's and how it would bring us dead mice all the time. Aunt Petunia would get so mad." Harry laughed in remembrance.

"He was a good cat, sure do miss him though." I nodded in agreement. But I'm happy with my owl. I love Godric more than anything he was a good friend.

"I hope he was able to have a home his last few months or years."

"He must have, maybe Mrs. Figg adopted him? She's always taking in stays." Harry was correct about that. She was always taking in cats.

I quickly placed Crookshanks on the ground and watched him run up to the girl's dormitory. "Let's get some food," Harry said placing his hand on my back and pushing me toward the Great Hall.

The day didn't get any better. Ron was still in a bad mood with Hermione, he barely talked to her. Ignoring her even if she tried to say something. Even in Herbology he didn't talk to her even though Harry, Hermione, Ron, and I were working together on the same Puffapod.

"How's Scabbers?" Hermione asked timidly as we stripped fat pink pods from the plants and emptied the shining beans into a wooden pail.

"He's hiding at the bottom of my bed, shaking," Ron snapped angrily, missing the pail and scattering beans over the greenhouse floor.

"Careful, Weasley, careful!" Professor Sprout cried as the beans burst into bloom before our eyes.

I let out a sigh pinching the bridge of my nose. Today was going to be a long day.

Transfiguration was next. Harry was supposed to ask Professor McGonagall after today's lesson on whether Harry and I could go to Hogsmeade with the rest of the class but something seemed to be going on. Lavender Brown seemed to be crying.

Parvati had her arm around her and was explaining something to Seamus Finnigan and Dean Thomas, wo were looking very serious.

"What's the matter, Lavender?" Hermione asked anxiously as we went to join the group.

"She got a letter from home this morning," Parvati whispered. "It's her rabbit, Binky. He's been killed by a fox."

"Oh," said Hermione, "I'm sorry, Lavender."

"I should have known!" Lavender said tragically. "You know what day it is?"

"Er…"

"The sixteenth of October! 'That thing you're dreading, it will happen on the sixteenth of October!' Remember? She was right, she was right!"

The whole class was gathered around Lavender now. Seamus shook his head seriously.

What?

"You, you were dreading Binky being killed by a fox?" Thank you, Hermione! I'm glad I'm not the only person who thought that.

"Well, not necessarily by a fox," Lavender said looking up at Hermione with streaming eyes, "but I was obviously dreading him dying, wasn't I?"

"Oh," Hermione said.

"Was Binky an old rabbit?" I ask confused.

"N-no!" sobbed Lavender. "H-he was only a baby!"

Parvati tightened her arm around Lavenders shoulders.

"But then, why would you dread him dying?" Hermione asked.

Parvati glared at Hermione.

"Lavender we don't mean this meanly, but if he was only a baby why would you think that?" I asked confused she just kept sobbing.

"Lizzy's right, look at this logically," Hermione said turning to the rest of the group. "I mean, Binky didn't even die today, did he? Lavender just got the news today…" Lavender wailed loudly. "and she can't have been dreading it, because it's come as a real shock…"

"Don't mind Hermione, Lavender," Ron said loudly, "she doesn't think other people's pets matter very much."

"Ron! How…"

I couldn't finish, Professor McGonagall opened the classroom door at that moment, which was lucky. Only because Hermione and Ron were looking daggers at each other, and when they got into class, we seated ourselves on each side. Hermione next to me and Ron next to Harry.

I gave a glance at Harry who looked just as worried.

Throughout class I would check on Hermione to make sure she was okay, she seemed so frustrated as she took her notes. Writing aggressively with her quill. I was surprised that the quill wasn't breaking at the stem.

Glancing over at Ron I did see his quill breaking. I'd have to give him one of my spares. Ugh I hate when he does this. He gets mad breaks his quill then asks for one to borrow.

When the bell rang at the end of the lesson Professor McGonagall interrupted us all from leaving.

"One moment, please!" she called. "As you're all in my House, you should hand Hogsmeade permission forms to me before Halloween. No form, no visiting the village, so don't forget!"

Neville put up his hand.

"Please, Professor, I-I think I've lost…"

"Your grandmother sent yours to me directly, Longbottom," said Professor McGonagall. "She seemed to think it was safer. Well, that's all, you may leave."

"Ask her now," Ron hissed at Harry. I hoped we would be able to go.

"Oh, but…" Hermione began.

"Go for it, Harry," Ron said stubbornly.

Ron gave me a small smile. "He'll figure something out. He'll find a way for you guys to go too." He spoke so confidently.

I waited outside the door hoping something good would happen. I didn't want to leave these two alone together at this moment.

Harry waited for the rest of the class to disappear, then headed nervously for Professor McGonagall's desk.

"Yes, Potter?" Harry took a deep breath.

"Professor, my aunt and uncle…er…forgot to sign our forms," he said.

Professor McGonagall looked over her square spectacles at him but didn't say anything.

"So…er… d'you think it would be all right, I mean, will it be okay if Elizabeth and I…if we go to Hogsmeade?"

Professor McGonagall looked down and began shuffling papers on her desk.

"I'm afraid not, Potter," she said. "You heard what I said. No form, no visiting the village. That's the rule."

"But…Professor, my aunt and uncle…you know, they're Muggles, they don't really understand about…about Hogwarts forms and stuff," Harry said, in the background Ron was egging Harry on with vigorous nods. "if you said we could go…"

"But I don't say so," said Professor McGonagall, standing up and piling her papers neatly into a drawer. "The form clearly states that the parent or guardian must give permission." She turned to look at him, with an odd expression on her face. Pity? "I'm sorry, Potter, but that's my final word. You had better hurry, or you'll be late for your next lesson."

I had a feeling we wouldn't be able to go so I wasn't too disappointed. Ron on the other hand was calling Professor McGonagall a lot of names which greatly annoyed Hermione; Hermione assumed an 'all for the best' expression that made Ron even angrier.

"Ron!" I snapped after fifteen more minutes of him ranting about how mad he was.

"What!" He yelled.

"It's okay, we can always go next year…" I said trying my best to get him to calm down.

"But you should be able to go! Everyone is going to go! It won't be fair!" It was really sweet that he was upset for us but with Sirius Black so close to Hogwarts maybe if was for the best.

All through class everyone was talking about what they were going to do first as soon as they got into Hogsmeade. It was nice knowing they were excited but still I was bummed we couldn't go. At least I'll be bummed with Harry.

"There's always the feast," Ron said in an effort to cheer Harry up. "You know, the Halloween feast, in the evening."

"Yeah," Harry said gloomily, "great." Harry was easily letting his mood show on not being able to go. Hermione would check on me to see how I was doing but I would say I was fine.

Fine.

"I'll pick you up something good to read." She promised me with a sad smile.

"Thank you," I spoke with a small smile. It wouldn't matter I'd still be jealous. At least I could partake in the Halloween feast this year. This is my third year at Hogwarts and I've never could partake in it before. My first year I was in the girl's bathroom trying to get Hermione to stop crying because Ron had been a jerk to her.

The second year we went to the death day party where Nearly Headless Nick had thrown a party in hopes of being able to join the headless hunt and his party had loads of decaying and rotten food.

This year I was hoping I would be able to enjoy it.

Harry and I walked a little way away from Ron and Hermione who were glaring at one another hatefully. "You doing okay?" I whispered softly. I doubt he wanted anyone to hear.

"Sure, we can go to the feast but it would probably be even better after a day in Hogsmeade." He grumbled to himself.

"I know, I wanted to go too." His hand entwined with my own and we let out a sigh of frustration. We were going to be left behind. Dean offered to forge Uncle Vernon's signature so that we could go but it was already too late. Harry had already told McGonagall that Uncle Vernon hadn't signed it.

Ron suggested the Invisibility Cloak but Hermione stamped on that one, reminding Ron what Dumbledore had said about the Dementors being able to see through them. Percy though. Percy did the worst at trying to cheer us up.

"They make a fuss about Hogsmeade, but I assure you, Harry, Elizabeth, it's not all it's cracked up to be," he said seriously. "All right, the sweetshop's rather good, and Zonko's Joke Shop's frankly dangerous, and yes, the Shrieking Shack's always worth a visit, but really, apart from that, you're not missing anything."

I glared up at him. He really was a pain!

"Thanks Percy we feel much better." I snapped hatefully.

Percy smiled and nodded "Always here to help." And walked away. It was like he didn't understand sarcasm! I wanted to pull my hair out!

Fred and George gave me a sympathetic smile and patted us on the back then looked at each other mischievously. What were they up to?

I left Harry in hopes I could get away from the buzz of Hogsmeade and in the library to study. Even though there wasn't any important test coming up.

I let out a groan as even in the library there were students chatting excitedly about Hogsmeade but only in a hushed whisper.

Grabbing the books, I need I quickly checked them out and walked out running smack dab into Draco and his crew.

"Lizzy," he smiled happily to be brought out of whatever dumb conversation Crabbe and Goyle were talking about.

"I'll meet up with you guys later." He told the two of them. They nodded obediently and walked inside to do god knows what. I know it wasn't study.

"How are you?" he asked softly.

"Alright," he nodded and nodded his head to my books. "Rune's homework?" I nodded and tried to step away.

Draco quickly blocked my path a smile on his lips.

"We could do our homework together again. I have Runes too," I lifted my eyebrow at him. Seriously he never told me he did. "Yeah, I just have it at a different time then you do. Want to study together again?" I shrugged and walked in a different direction him hot on my heels.

"Don't we usually study in the library?" he questioned a smirk on his lips.

"Yes, but everyone is talking about Hogsmeade and I don't want to hear about it anymore." He quickly reached over and grasped my hand in his.

I pause for a moment staring at him before continuing walking in a random direction. We walked hand in hand for ten minutes, he had a goofy smile on his lips while I was just in my own little world. Here we go. Over by the windows there was barely anyone here, the hall was basically deserted but it looked nice and peaceful.

I took a seat underneath the window. "You sure you want to study here? People could see…" I looked up confused. Since when does he care about being seen with me in public. He's made it very clear that he doesn't care that I'm a Gryffindor and he's a Slytherin.

"Huh?"

"Wouldn't you like to, study in an empty classroom? Where we can have some privacy?" he asked a certain tone that I wasn't sure what he was getting at.

"I wasn't really looking for a specific spot to study, I just needed quiet." He shrugged and sat beside me placing his books on the floor beside mine.

"So, I was wondering if you would like to go on a date with me." I frown confused. He wanted to date me?

"I can't really leave Hogwarts." He cocked his head to the side.

"What about Hogsmeade?" I frown and let out an agitated groan. "Did your family not sign it?"

"No. My Uncle never signed my form and Harry and I won't be able to go." I snapped hatefully. Draco winced at my tone towards him.

"Sorry…" I whispered after a few minutes.

"It's okay, I figure you'd get upset after not being able to go and everyone keeps bringing it up." He said softly. Leaning over I rested my head on his shoulder.

"It's just a pain because I was actually looking forward to going." His left hand still clutching my right hand pulled it into his lap.

"I know, anyone would be…I don't have to go." What? I felt my brows scrunching up in confusing. He was staring down at me when I looked up.

He meant what he said. He would stay. He would miss the trip if it would make her happy. There was no doubt in his mind. He wanted her to be happy.

"What?"

"I meant what I said. I want to go on a date with you and if you can't leave Hogwarts then we'll make a date of it here." He said softly squeezing my hand in reassurance.

Draco Malfoy wanted to go to Hogsmeade but he wanted to be with Elizabeth even more. He could go to Hogsmeade anytime, but there were always a few chances when he could be truly alone with Elizabeth and if it meant he would miss the chance to go with his class to be with her then he would skip that in a heartbeat.

"I can't let you do that." I whispered staring away from him. That wall looked like a nice spot to stare. "Don't joke like that. You know you want to go to Hogsmeade." Draco merely shrugged and let go of my hand.

I frown at the loss of contact.

"I don't care if I miss the trip Lizzybear." I stifle a giggle. I always liked it when he called me that, it was cute and I never thought he would be one for pet names.

Draco smirked to himself and shifted his arm around my shoulders and pulled me closer to his chest. I let out a yelp feeling my body being pulled over and into a lap. Draco was really a touchy person.

"Draco!" He chuckled to himself as he held her in his arms happily.

"Draco I'm not going to let you miss the trip." He rolled his eyes at me, nuzzling his face in the crook of my neck.

"But I'd rather be here with you, it'll be no fun without you." I heard his whisper in my ear. What was with that tone? He never sounds like that! It was oddly attractive and I had to bite my lip to stop myself from being a puddle in his arms.

"I d-don't believe that." I took a deep breath before continuing. "It'll be loads of fun and you'll have to tell me all about it!" I said with a smile. I couldn't stop him from going. Then I would feel bad about that.

Draco didn't know what to say. He told her he wanted to be with her but she was telling him to go to the stupid town.

"Trust me we can have a date when you get back." He felt his chest fill with excitement. She said yes. She said yes! She would go on a date with him! Draco always knew he liked Elizabeth, loved her even.

"It'll be so boring without you there." He said softly. "I'll have to sneak you there somehow." I couldn't help but laugh at that. He was so weird.

"I'll be here when you get back don't worry." He nodded and kissed my temple. I felt a warm feeling seep into my core when his lips touched my skin. Like little butterflies were flying around my stomach.

I was happy. Draco really was a good guy.

Halloween morning, I felt like crap. Everyone was going to be leaving for Hogsmeade. I caught Hermione giving me a sympathetic look as we got dressed. I did my best to act normal. We all met up in the Great Hall for breakfast.

After some oatmeal Harry and I walked our friends to the entrance. Harry was just as depressed as I was but he was doing a somewhat good job at not showing it. I could tell he was depressed for three reasons.

One: we were twins. We had this special bond that we could easily tell if something was wrong with the other.

Two: He openly admitted that he was upset about not being able to go after Professor McGonagall has told us we couldn't go.

Three: Harry wasn't the best actor in the world.

I'm not saying I'm a better actor than Harry. Gods no. Harry he's better at so many things than me. I just know that I was a little better at hiding my real emotions better than Harry is.

"We'll bring you lots of sweets back from honeydukes," Hermione said, looking desperately sorry the two of us.

"Yeah, loads," Ron agreed. He and Hermione had finally forgotten their squabble about Crookshanks in the face of well…difficulties.

"Don't worry about us," Harry said giving a shrug and a half smile. "We'll see you at the feast. Have a good time."

I nodded in agreement. "Harry and I will find something to do. You have to tell me everything when you get back."

Hermione nodded with Ron.

Harry and I followed Ron and Hermione to the entrance hall, where Filch, the caretaker, was standing inside the front doors, checking off names against a long list, peering suspiciously into every face, and making sure that no one was sneaking out who shouldn't be going.

"Elizabeth!" Draco called waving sadly in my direction.

"See you when you get back," I called forcing a smile to my lips. I turn to Harry and saw he was already walking away.

"See that boys? That there is my girlfriend." I thought I heard Draco say. I whip around confused but he was facing the front and talking to some new people. I must be hearing things. No way would he say that we're in a relationship. I just said yes to hanging out with him!

Oh god I said date. He can't possibly think it's more than that!

I dashed up the stairs after Harry and slip my arm through his when I finally caught up.

The corridors back to Gryffindor Tower were quiet, we didn't talk but I did feel his head fall on top of mine. At least I can comfort him a little bit.

"Password?" The Fat Lady said, jerking out of a doze.

"Fortuna Major," Harry said listlessly.

The portrait swung open and we climbed through the hole into the common room. It was full of chattering first and second years, and a few older students, who had obviously visited Hogsmeade so often the novelty had worn off.

"Harry! Elizabeth! Hi, Harry! Hi Elizabeth!"

Colin Creevey, a second year who was deeply in awe of Harry and never missed an opportunity to speak to him. It was so cute last year, he really was a sweet kid.

"Aren't you two going to Hogsmeade? Why not? Hey…" Colin looked eagerly around at his friends. "you can come and sit with us, if you like, Harry!"

"Er, no thanks, Colin," Harry spoke softly. He wasn't in the mood to have a lot of people staring avidly at the scar on his forehead.

"Maybe some other time Colin, we've got to go to the library and get some work done." I spoke smiling at the cute boy in front of us.

"Oh, okay! I'll see you later Elizabeth! Harry!" I giggle and turn on my heel with Harry and head back out the portrait hole again.

"What was the point of waking me up?" The Fat Lady called grumpily after us as we walked away.

"Good excuse to get us away from Colin." Harry said softly as we walked down the next few corridors.

I smile softly to myself, I did like Colin but I could only handle a little of him at a time. "He is a sweetie but he can be so excited and bubbly." He nodded in agreement bumping my shoulder with his own.

Halfway to the library Harry changed our course of direction. He didn't want to work. When we turned we came face to face with Filch, who had obviously just seen off the last of Hogsmeade visitors.

"What are you two doing?" Filch snarled suspiciously.

"Nothing," Harry answered for us. It was true. We weren't doing anything besides walking.

"Nothing!" Filch spat, his jowls quivering unpleasantly. "A likely story! Sneaking around on your own, why aren't you in Hogsmeade buying Stink Pellets and Belch Power and Whizzing Worms like the rest of your nasty friends?"

Harry shrugged.

His beady eyes stared me down.

I shrugged my shoulders and made a face that said I don't know.

"Well, get back to your common room where you belong!" Filch snapped. He was glaring at us until we were out of his sight.

We didn't go back to the common room; we ended up climbing a staircase toward the Owlery. I would get to see Godric, I missed my owl.

"Harry? Elizabeth?" Turning around I saw it was Professor Lupin. He was standing outside his office door. I cock my head to the side and give off a smile.

"What are you doing?" Professor Lupin asked, in a very different voice form Filch. "Where are Ron and Hermione?"

"Hogsmeade," we said together. Harry said in a somewhat casual voice. I tried to show I didn't care that they went.

"Ah," Lupin nodded. He looked us over for a moment. "Why don't you two come in? I've just taken delivery of a Grindylow for our next lesson." My eyes widen in shock.

"A what?" Harry asked obviously confused.

I dashed inside his office excitedly. In the corner stood a very large tank of water. A sickly green creature with sharp little horns had its face pressed against the glass, pulling faces and flexing its long, spindly fingers.

"Water demon," I hear Professor Lupin said as he looked over it thoughtfully. "We shouldn't have much difficulty with him, not after the Kappas. The trick is to break his grip. You notice the abnormally long fingers? Strong, but very brittle."

I kneeled beside the tank and smiled at the Grindylow. The Grindylow bared its green teeth and then buried itself in a tangle of weeds a corner.

"He's so cool!" I whispered looking back to see Harry shaking his head trying not to laugh, while Professor Lupin just chuckles to himself. "Maybe in that tank but out I wouldn't think so." Professor Lupin smiled down at me.

"I know, but still it's amazing to see one up close and personal." I explained with a smile. Professor Lupin chuckled again before looking around. "Cup of tea?" He asked us. He must have been looking for his kettle. "I was just thinking of making one."

"All right," Harry said awkwardly.

"Thank you," I spoke softly.

Professor Lupin tapped the kettle with his wand and a blast of steam issued suddenly from the spout.

"Sit down," He said, taking the lid off a dusty tin. "I've only got teabags, I'm afraid…but I daresay you've had enough of tea leaves?"

I grumble at the thought of tea leaves. I'm still mad at her for saying that about my big brother.

Harry nudged me slightly and I had to calm myself down. She was just stupid to think that my brother was going to die. I really need to drop that class.

"How did you know about that?" Harry asked confused. His fingers entwined with my own.

"Professor McGonagall told me," Professor Lupin said while passing us a mug of tea. There was small chip at the lid. "You're not worried, are you?"

"No," Harry shrugged.

"How do you feel about…" I didn't let him finish.

"She's insane if she thinks that Harry's going to die. Crackpot…" Harry and Professor Lupin started to laugh at me. "It's not funny Harry!" I snapped glaring at him hatefully.

"Calm down I'm not going to die."

I nodded and gave him a small smile. I loved my big brother and I would never want to see anything bad happen to him.

I sipped my tea in peace. It was quite nice and it smelled delicious. Professor Lupin kept staring at us as if he wanted to tell us something but he chose not to.

"Anything worrying you, Harry?"

"No," Harry lied. I bump his shoulder as he drank his tea. The Grindylow came back out from the weeds and was brandishing a fist at him. "Yes," Harry said suddenly, putting his tea down on Professor Lupins desk. "You know that day we fought the Boggart?"

"Yes," Professor Lupin said slowly.

"Why didn't you let me fight it?" Harry asked abruptly.

Our Professor raised his eyebrows.

"I would have thought that was obvious, Harry," he said very surprised.

Harry was confused at this. He didn't deny stopping Harry from defeating the Boggart and that caused Harry to be taken aback. He was prepared for Professor Lupin to deny his question.

"Why?" Harry asked again.

"Well," Professor Lupin frowned slightly, "I assumed that if the Boggart faced you, it would assume the shape of Lord Voldemort."

I look to the floor I half expected it to be him. But he said his name! He said Lord Voldemort. He wasn't scared like the other adults we knew. I knew Professor Dumbledore wasn't afraid to say his name but hearing Professor Lupin say it was just a shock.

"Clearly, I was wrong," Professor Lupin said still frowning at Harry. "But I didn't think it a good idea for Lord Voldemort to materialize in the staffroom. I imagined that people would panic."

"I didn't think of Voldemort," Harry spoke honestly. "I-I remember those Dementors."

I gave Harry a comforting squeeze.

"I see," Professor Lupin said thoughtfully. "Well, well…I'm impressed." He smiled slightly at the look of surprise on our faces. "That suggests that what you fear most of all is, fear. Very wise, Harry."

Harry drank more tea.

"So, you've been thinking that I didn't believe you capable of fighting the Boggart?" Professor Lupin asked Shrewdly.

"Well…yeah," Harry perked up a bit. "Professor Lupin, you know the Dementors…"

Harry was interrupted by a knock on the door.

"Come in," he called.

The door opened, in came Professor Snape. He was carrying a goblet, which was smoking faintly, and stopped at the sight or Harry, I noticed his eyes narrowing.

"Ah, Severus," Professor Lupin said smiling. "Thanks very much. Could you leave it here on the desk for me?"

"Hi Professor Snape," I call out happily. He nodded at me something in his eyes changed when he looked at me. I smile up at him I thought he was going to be going to Hogsmeade today as well at Professor McGonagall!

Professor Snape set down the smoking goblet, he was looking between the three of us.

"I was just showing Harry and Elizabeth my Grindylow," Professor Lupin said pleasantly, pointing at the tank.

"Fascinating," Professor Snape said without looking at the creature. "You should drink that directly, Lupin."

"Yes, yes, I will."

"I made an entire cauldronful," Professor Snape continued. "If you need more."

"I should probably have some again tomorrow. Thanks very much, Severus."

"Not at all," Professor Snape said.

"Do you need help cleaning up Professor?" I asked curious if he needed me still. Professor Snape locked eyes with me as I stood.

He closed his eyes and shook his head. "Not at this moment Elizabeth, thank you though. I am going to be working on a few new recipes in the next few days that would require your assistance." I smiled brightly and nodded my head.

"I'd be delighted to help!" He nodded before walking away, shutting the door behind him.

I caught Harry staring at the goblet and smacked his arm. "Don't be rude." I hissed quietly. Harry blushed and looked away. Professor Lupin laughed at the two of us. "Professor Snape has very kindly concocted a potion for me," he said. Answering what Harry was thinking somewhat. "I have never been much of a potion brewer and this one is particularly complex." He picked up the goblet and sniffed it. "Pity sugar makes it useless," he added, taking a sip and shuddering.

"Why…?"

"I've been feeling a bit off-color," he said answering Harrys question finally. "This potion is the only thing that helps. I am very lucky to be working alongside Professor Snape; there aren't many wizards who are up to making it."

Professor Lupin took another sip and I grabbed Harry's hand tightly as a warning. He better not do anything or I swear I'll kick his arse.

"Professor Snape's very interested in the Dark Arts," Harry blurted out.

"Harry!"

"Really?" Professor Lupin said looking mildly interested as he took another gulp of potion.

"Some people reckon…"

"Harry, I swear." I warn glaring him down. Harry gulped at my stare.

"some people reckon he'd do anything to get the Defense Against the Dark Arts job."

"Oh my god Harry! He's not a bad guy!" I snapped crossing my arms annoyed.

Professor Lupin drained the goblet and pulled a face.

"Disgusting," he said. "Well, Harry, Elizabeth, I'd better get back to work. See you at the feast later."

"Right," Harry said putting down his empty teacup.

The goblet was still smoking.

I was on the verge of ripping Harry's head off. I glare at him as we walked out of the office room. Professor Lupin chuckled to himself as soon as the door was closed and the muffled yelling could be heard toward Harry James Potter.

"There you go," Ron said. "We got as much as we could carry."

It was like a shower of brilliantly colored sweets fell on our laps. It was dusk, Ron and Hermione had just turned up in the common room, pink faced from the cold wind and looking as though they had the time of their lives.

"Thanks," Harry said, picking up a packet of tiny black Pepper Imps. "What's Hogsmeade like? Where did you go?"

By the sound of it, everywhere. Dervish and Banges, the wizarding equipment shop, Zonko's Joke Shop, into the Three Broomsticks for foaming mugs of hot butterbeer, and many places besides.

"The post office! About two hundred owls, all sitting on shelves, all color-coded depending on how fast you want your letter to get there!"

"Honeydukes has got a new kind of fudge; they were giving out free samples, there's a bit, look…"

"We think we saw an ogre, honestly, they got all sorts at the Three Broomsticks…"

"Wish we could have brought you some butterbeer, really warms you up…"

"What did you two do?" Hermione asked looking anxious. "Did you get any work done?"

"No," I shrugged when I spoke smiling at Hermione.

"Professor Lupin made us a cup of tea in his office. And then Snape came in…"

I listen as Harry told Ron and Hermione about the goblet and Ron's mouth fell open.

"Lupin drank it?" He gasped. "Is he mad?"

"Harry forgot to mention that he tried to make Professor Lupin think that his potion was poisoned!" I snapped glaring hatefully at my brother. I watched as he shifted away nervously.

"He probably did." Ron agreed with Harry.

"He isn't that bad!" I snapped glaring at Ron now. He shuddered in fear. Hermione nodded in agreement. "Honestly Ron, Professor Lupin trusts Professor Snape. He may not be my favorite teacher but he would never poison another teacher!"

"Exactly!" I snapped glaring at the two boys in front of me.

Hermione checked her watch.

"We'd better go down, you know, the feast'll be starting in five minutes." Hermione, Ron, Harry and I rushed through the portrait hole and into the crowd, they were still discussing about Professor Snape.

"But if he, you know," Hermione dropped her voice, glancing nervously around, "if he was trying to, to poison Lupin, he wouldn't have done it in front of Harry or Elizabeth especially."

"Yeah, maybe,"

"Hermione you're on their side?!" I asked shocked and hurt that she didn't trust me or my judgement on Professor Snape.

"Well, Professor Snape has been sneaky before…" she whispered nervously.

I let out a huff annoyance. I couldn't believe this.

The Great Hall had been decorated with hundreds and hundreds of candles filled pumpkins, a cloud of fluttering live bats, and many flaming orange streamers, which were swimming lazily across the stormy ceiling like brilliant water snakes.

The food was amazing. I had never had anything so good. Even Ron and Hermione, they were full from Honeydukes sweets, had managed second helpings of everything. I saw Harry had kept glancing over at the staff table. No doubt checking on Professor Lupin. He was cheerful and as well as he ever did.

The feast finished with an entertainment provided by Hogwarts ghosts. They popped out of the walls and tables to do a bit of formation gliding; Nearly Headless Nick, the Gryffindor ghost, had a great success with reenactment of his own botched beheading.

Toward the end I could hear "The Dementors send their love, Potter!" I roll my eyes at Draco but laugh at something funny Ron said.

Harry, Ron, Hermione, and I followed the rest of the Gryffindor's along the usual path to Gryffindor Tower, but when they reached the corridor that ended with the portrait of the Fat Lady, they found it was jammed with students.

"Why isn't anyone going in?" Ron asked curiously.

Harry and I tried peering over the heads in front of us. The portrait seemed to be closed.

"Let me through, please," Percy's voice came as he was bustling importantly through the crowd. "What's the holdup here? You can't all have forgotten the password, excuse me! I'm Head Boy…"

Silence fell over the crowd, from the front first, so that a chill seemed to spread down the corridor. I heard Percy say, in a suddenly sharp voice, "Somebody get Professor Dumbledore. Quick."

"People's head turned; those at the back were standing on tiptoe.

"What's going on?" Ginny asked, she had just arrived.

A moment later, Professor Dumbledore was there, sweeting toward the portrait; the Gryffindor's squeezed together to let him through. Harry, Ron, Hermione and I moved closer to see what the trouble was.

"Oh, my…" Hermione grabbed my arm.

The Fat lady had vanished from her portrait, which had been slashed so viciously that strips of canvas littered the floor; great chunks of it had been torn away completely. Dumbledore took one quick look at the ruined painting and turned, his eyes somber, to see Professor McGonagall, Lupin, and Snape hurrying toward him.

"We need to find her," Said Professor Dumbledore. "Professor McGonagall, please go to Mr. Filch at once and tell him to search every painting in the castle for the Fat Lady."

"You'll be lucky!" said a cackling voice.

It was Peeves the Poltergeist, bobbing over the crowd and looking delighted, as he always did, at the sight of wreckage or worry.

"What do you mean, Peeves?" Professor Dumbledore said calmly, and Peeves' grin faded a little. He didn't dare taunt Dumbledore. Instead he adopted an oily voice that was not better than his cackle. "Ashamed, Your Headship, sir. Doesn't want to be seen. She's a horrible mess. Saw her running through the landscape up on the fourth floor, sir, dodging between the trees. Crying something dreadful," he said happily. "Poor thing." He added unconvincingly.

"Did she say who did it?" Dumbledore asked quietly.

"Oh yes, Professorhead," Peeves said with the air of one cradling a large bombshell in his arms. "He got very angry when she wouldn't let him in, you see." Peeves flipped over and grinned at Dumbledore from between his own legs. "Nasty temper he's got, that Sirius Black."

I'M DONE! IT TOOK ME SO LONG TO WRITE THIS CHAPTER AND HOLY CRAP AM I PROUD THAT IT'S DONE. I'm so sorry it's taking me forever to write a chapter anymore. I've been working way too much, I also just finished school so I'm looking for a full-time job. I want to get out of this crappy part time job! I hope you liked this chapter it was killing me for a while. Please leave a review if you liked it because I love writing this but I get lazy. The more review I usually get the more I feel like I NEED to write the story. Anyway, later guys! See ya when I can get the next chapter up!