Chapter 48
Disclaimer: The Harry Potter world obviously belongs to JK Rowling and not me. Obviously.
… … … …
Also, normally I don't do this but I'm going to make a song suggestion if you like to listen to music while you read "Rue's Farewell" from the Hunger Games score…gave me shivers.
Leila clung to Draco as the tears freely fell from her eyes. Harry reached out and gently squeezed his sister's arm; but none of this changed the fact that Snape's cold dead body lay beside them. All those years of unjustly thinking Snape was the one plotting their untimely demise. Granted, Snape hadn't exactly been a warm father-figure; but that didn't make his death any less tragic. But the thing that tore at Leila's heart more was that Harry didn't know. Leila roughly wiped away the tears and turned to her brother who was now staring at the flask with the strange liquid inside of it. She could practically see the wheels in Harry's head turning, trying to figure out what it all meant; but she knew. She knew those memories would reveal to her brother what she had at one point already figured out. The only thing that didn't make sense to her, was why did Snape alter her memories? Why had he taken the one thing that proved him innocent of their childish blame-game? It wasn't always Snape, at least not in the capacity they had so long assumed.
"Harry," Leila whispered.
Harry's eyes locked with his sister's for a moment; but before either of them could speak the high, cold voice of Voldemort began to speak again. Harry must have thought that Voldemort had reentered the Boat House because he threw himself over his sister trying to offer her protection. Instead, only Voldemort's voice reverberated on the glass walls and stone floor. Just like last time, the Dark Lord was attempting to contact all those at Hogwarts and its surrounding area. Leila's hands flew over her ears trying to block him out, but there was no point. She looked around to find Hermione kneeling on the floor with her hands over her ears as well, while Ron was standing leaning against the glass wall with a look of pain on his face.
"You have fought valiantly, but in vain," Voldemort's voice spoke. "If you continue to resist me, you will all die, one by one. I do not wish this to happen. Every drop of magical blood spilled is a terrible waste. Lord Voldemort is merciful. Therefore, I command my forces to retreat immediately. In their absence, dispose of you dead with dignity. Treat your injured. Harry and Leila Potter, I know speak directly to you. On this night, you both have permitted your friends to die for you rather than face me yourselves. There is no greater dishonor. Both of you need to join me in the Forbidden Forest and confront your fates. If at the end of one hour you have not come to me, have not confronted your fates, then the battle will recommence. This time I shall enter the fray myself and I shall find you both, and I shall punish every last man, woman, and child was has tried to conceal you from me. You have one hour."
Voldemort's words rang through Leila's head as she looked to her brother with her eyes wide. Harry gulped uneasily as he looked to his sister.
"Don't listen to him," Ron said.
"He wants you to come to him," Draco said.
"That's because we're supposed to," Leila muttered.
"What's that supposed to mean?" Ron asked.
Harry looked to Leila, who looked to Hermione, who looked to Draco, who looked to Harry. The four of them already knew; but somehow Ron had been left out of the know. Leila inhaled deeply before she looked to Ron.
"There's a reason Voldemort expects me to bring Harry to him," Leila said. "There's a prophecy saying that I will."
"It's rubbish, utter rubbish. You would never do that and we all know it," Ron responded.
"Ron these types of prophecies are rarely, if ever, wrong," Leila sniffled.
Ron looked slightly in shock as he turned to Harry whose glance was focused on the stone floor. Harry didn't make any response as he clutched the flask in his hand a little tighter; but leave it to Hermione to try and alleviate the tension in the room.
"It'll be all right," Hermione said "Let's—let's go back to the castle. If he's gone to the forest we'll need to think of a new plan…"
"To keep Harry and Leila away from each other," Ron added.
"No," Harry interjected. "If the prophecy says it's Leila, then it's Leila. Trying to keep us apart isn't going to change the damn prophecy."
"Then I think someone is going to need to be with you two at all times," Ron said.
"There are already three of us with them," Draco said.
Leila looked over to Snape's body once more as the blood from his wounds puddled beneath him. If she truly was going to be the one to bring Harry to Voldemort, then he needed to know the truth. He needed to know that Snape had been one of the 'good guys.' But knowing Harry, an explanation from her wasn't going to sway him. He needed to see whatever memories Snape had chosen for him. He needed to realize the position Snape had put himself in for their sakes. But more importantly, Harry needed to see them because it would buy them a little time to keep him from attempting to play the hero to save them all. To save them from Voldemort and to save Leila from the prophecy. It was something Harry was known to do, something she would attempt to at least distract him from doing for the time being.
"Can we please just get out of here?" Leila asked. "Harry has something he needs to do before Voldemort starts the battle up again."
Harry looked to the flask in his hands and then to Leila before he nodded his head in agreement. Draco stood up before helping Leila to her feet. He wrapped his arms tightly around Leila as he looked down to their dead former Head of House. Draco closed his eyes tightly before he placed a gentle kiss on the top of Leila's head. Even though she wasn't reading his thoughts, she could tell that Draco was thankful it wasn't her lying dead on the floor of the Boat House. Ron opened the door to the Boat House and held it open as Harry, Hermione, Leila, and Draco walked out of it. As they began to climb up the stairs back to the castle, Harry led the way. Draco clutched Leila's hand in his as they followed Harry up the stairs. They carefully maneuvered past the trampled Blast-Ended Skrewts, but no one spoke a word.
Leila could tell that Harry's thoughts were weighing heavily on Voldemort's words. She knew this because that's where her thoughts were focused too. The look in his eyes when he looked back at her spoke volumes. It spoke of disappointment and mistrust. She wanted to change it all, she did. If she could take Harry's place…that thought had never crossed her mind. Maybe Harry didn't have to be the one to always play the hero. Maybe she could do it. But that thought quickly fleeted from her mind because knowing Voldemort, he would probably use her sacrifice to lure Harry closer to him. Every way Leila looked at the situation, there didn't seem to be a way around it.
As they drew closer to the castle, it seemed unnaturally quiet, at least compared to the way they had left it. There were no more flashes of light nor bangs and shouts or screams. No more giants and Acromantulas feasting on their prey in the courtyard. The group stood at the entrance to the courtyard staring at the rubble. Collapsed pillars and bricks from the walls littered the ground. Stains of blood seemed to form a river and the gems from the House point system were even trickling out into the courtyard. Shattered glass, splintered wood, and broken pieces of marble added to the debris. Leila had to look away for a moment. She had never seen the place looking so gruesome and uninviting.
"Where is everyone?" Hermione whispered.
Suddenly, the door to the castle swung open to reveal Fred Weasley.
"Where have you lot been? Mum's been going crazy," Fred began. "But let me be the first to tell you, you missed it. Percy actually made a joke. He was dueling…."
Everyone's attention was so focused on Fred that no one noticed a rogue Death Eater creeping from behind the fallen bell. Everything seemed to happen so fast. The Death Eater shouted Draco's surname before he flung a curse straight for them. Draco fumbled to grasp his wand to put up a shield; just when it seemed like the curse was about to hit them a shield surrounded them. The shield didn't come from Harry, Hermione, Leila, Ron, or Draco. Rather, Theodore Nott had run right for them casting a shield charm protecting them from the Death Eater's curse. Leila watched as the curse deflected off the shield and rebounded right at a pillar still standing in the corridor. The pillar exploded causing the stones it was holding up to collapse right on top of Fred.
Leila screamed as the Death Eater darted past them and out of the corridor. Ron rushed right to his brother's side, as did Harry, Hermione, and Draco; but Leila drew her wand and headed after the Death Eater. She didn't know where the courage came from, but that man needed to pay. They were supposed to have retreated. The Death Eaters weren't supposed to be spilling anymore blood, yet one with a vendetta against Draco had somehow managed to weasel his way in the castle without leaving. Leila started shouting any horrible curses she could think of: Crucio! Sectumpsempra! She was just about to start after the man down the stairs when a strong pair of arms wrapped around her, stopping her from going any farther. Leila cast one more Sectumsempra curse which hit the Death Eater's arm causing him to wail in agony. Without knowing whose arms were embracing her, she tried to fight them.
"Let me go!" Leila shouted. "He's getting away!"
"Leila, stop!" Remus commanded. "This isn't the way."
"No!" Leila shouted. "He had no right to do that! He was supposed to retreat!"
"Leila this is a war," Remus responded.
With tears burning her eyes, Leila turned around to look at her godfather whose own eyes were puffy and red. He held on to her tightly as she tried to wriggle away.
"I'm not going to lose you too," Remus struggled to say. "I'm supposed to keep you safe. I made that promise long ago. I won't break any more promises."
Sobs began to escape from Remus as he held his goddaughter close. Leila stopped trying to get away and looked at her godfather oddly. Surely…surely, he couldn't be mourning Fred. Leila fumbled to find the words to say.
"Uncle Remus," Leila whispered.
"Tonks, she's dead," Remus sobbed. "Teddy!"
Leila's own tears began to sting even more as she turned around and threw her arms around her godfather's neck. Tonks was dead? How? What about Teddy? She could somewhat see why he had stopped her. He was supposed to protect his wife and now she was dead and protecting Leila was something he had promised James and Lily many years ago. Remus still continued to sob as Leila saw Hermione running for them. Hermione roughly wiped at her face before she stopped in front of Remus and Leila. From the look on Hermione's face, she could already tell that whatever she was going to say was not good news. Fred. Leila's heart seemed to skip a beat as she clutched for her heart.
"Fred's asking for you," Hermione sniffled.
"How is he?" Leila asked.
"It's not good, Leila," Hermione answered honestly. "He's not going to make it."
"No, you're lying," Leila responded.
"Please go to him. I don't know how much time he has left and he wants to see you," Hermione cried gently.
Leila looked to Remus, who nodded his head. He then walked with Leila back into the courtyard. Only Harry and Draco stood there. Ron must have run into the castle to find his family and Remus too headed inside. Leila could feel the tears begin to flow steadily down her face. This wasn't fair. It wasn't supposed to be like this. Leila purposely avoided looking at Draco. She didn't know if she could handle looking at him without a feeling of guilt overwhelming her. She got to Fred's side and collapsed onto her knees. This was a scene she was already too familiar with, but with Fred things were different. Fred had always been so kind and caring to her. He had loved her and she…she had loved him. She could barely stand to look at him like this, covered in blood and rubble.
"Can Leila and I get a minute, gentlemen," Fred said hoarsely.
Draco and Harry looked reluctant to do as Fred asked. Fred however, waved them off. Leila took Fred's hand in her own as a smile spread across his face. Even after everything, Fred's smile could still make her heart flip. But it wouldn't be like that for much longer. Soon, he would be only a memory. She wasn't ready for that. She wasn't ready to have Fred cut out of her life. She had chosen Draco, but what if that was the wrong thing to do? But that didn't really matter now, because she would never know. Her heart felt like it was breaking all over again.
"Fred," Leila cried.
"Honestly Leila, you think you'd be able to tell I'm George by now," Fred coughed.
"I 'ear you, Fred," Leila teased through the tears as she gently cupped his ear.
Fred chuckled, but because his breathing was heavy it turned into coughing. Leila tried to help him into a sitting position by placing his head on her lap. His breathing remained rather shallow, but it was improved a little. Her tears slipped onto Fred's face which she tried to wipe away. Even through the pain, Fred wore a mischievous grin on his face. Leila looked at him oddly.
"One more kiss for a dying old man," Fred joked.
"Don't say that," Leila sniffled.
"I'm only joking," Fred choked out. "Well, not about that kiss and the dying part though."
"Fred, don't talk like that," Leila reprimanded.
"Leila, please?" Fred pleaded.
Leila knew that their entire conversation was being overheard. She looked up and made eye contact with Draco. Pain was easily written over his face as he wiped away any tears that had strayed from his eyes. Leila began to breathe heavily as she moved her face closer to Fred's; but when it came to the final moment she moved her lips to his cheek. She pressed a gentle kiss on the grime of his cheek before she pushed his ginger hair from his face. Fred must not have been too disappointed because he slightly chuckled; but her emotions were so conflicting inside of her. She didn't want to hurt Draco with all this; but it almost seemed inevitable.
"My heart's breaking," Leila said tearfully.
"It won't be my job to fix it. Tell Draco he needs to keep his end of our bargain," Fred whispered.
Leila looked up to Draco once more who nodded his head before he tore his gaze away from her. It was as if she was getting the permission she needed. Fred smiled up at her as she inhaled and exhaled deeply. Once again her face inched closer to Fred's. Their eyes closed just as Leila's lips met Fred's already growing cold lips. Leila placed her hands on Fred's cheeks as she tearfully kissed him again. When she finally pulled away and opened her tear-filled emerald eyes they immediately locked with Fred's who also wore a contented smile on his face. Her face remained mere inches from his with her tears still spilling onto his face.
"I love you," Leila whispered.
"I know," Fred smiled.
With that a grin covered Fred's face as he gently closed his eyes, trying to preserve his last memory until he breathed his last breath. Leila gently cried Fred's name, not wanting him to leave her. She patted his cheek trying to get him to focus once more. In the distance, Mrs. Weasley's wailing could be heard as she ran into the courtyard. She was still far away from Fred as Leila continued to pat Fred's cheek to get him to knock-it-off, as if this was another one of his jokes. For a moment Fred opened his eyes and winked at her before he closed them once more and his body went limp in Leila's arms. Leila brushed at his hair, hoping that maybe he was just playing with her.
"Fred, wake-up," Leila muttered. "Fred now is not the time for your jokes."
But Fred didn't move. He didn't even breathe. There was no sign of life in Fred. Leila began to shake as Mrs. Weasley reached her son's side. Mrs. Weasley took one look at Fred and began to wail. Mr. Weasley, George, Ginny, Ron, Bill, Fleur, and Percy ran out of the castle and hurried toward them. By the point they reached Fred's dead body, Mrs. Weasley had thrown herself over him and Hermione knelt on the ground holding a sobbing Leila in her arms. The Weasley family mourned loudly. Percy had thrown his arms around his father and sobbed. Fleur turned into Bill, whose own face was blanched and beginning to stain with tears. Ron and George dropped to their knees beside their mother, their own tears flowing freely. They all stayed in the courtyard crying until Professor McGonagall came running out to them. She called for them to get inside but as she drew closer she could tell that something was wrong. When Professor McGonagall caught sight of Fred's dead body she gasped and surprisingly burst into tears. As often as Fred had ruffled her feathers, Professor McGonagall had held a soft spot for him, but she would probably never admit it.
"We—erm…" Professor McGonagall began, fumbling to find the appropriate words. "We should head into the Great Hall."
Arthur nodded his head and leaned down next to his son. He placed his arms under his son's upper half while Bill took hold of Fred's feet. They picked him up, while George helped his mother up. The Weasleys walked slowly toward the entrance to castle carrying Fred's dead body. Harry walked with Ginny who leaned heavily against Harry. Hermione caught up to Ron and squeezed his hand as they walked together, leaving Leila, Draco, and Professor McGonagall in the courtyard. Leila couldn't find the strength to lift herself up. She barely comprehended Professor McGonagall telling her to get up, but after the third time, Leila looked to the older woman with tears blinding her vision. Professor McGonagall looked to Draco, who roughly pulled Leila to her feet. Draco wrapped his arm around her waist as she leaned heavily upon him so they could walk inside. She didn't really remember getting inside, but the next thing she knew, she was hit with the overwhelming scene that was the Great Hall.
The four House tables had been pushed to the sides of the room, where the survivors sat in groups. In the middle of the room, there were rows of those who had been lost in the battle. Leila couldn't see Fred's body, but she could see his family surrounding what she assumed was his body. She spotted Remus hovering over Tonks body, whose arm was outstretched as if she had been looking for a hand to hold. In the corner of the room, on one of the tables, Leila found Theo holding Daphne beside Firenze whose flank poured blood making him unable to stand. Without thinking about what she was doing, Leila absently pushed Draco away from her. She missed the look of hurt expressed on his face as she walked away from him toward Daphne. She walked past the Weasleys who were mourning the loss of Fred. Leila couldn't think of what to tell them. She felt almost guilty that she had been the one who had gotten Fred's last moments. It should've been something saved for his mother or one of his siblings…someone he loved.
Leila jumped onto the table where Daphne lay on Theo's lap. Daphne had bandages on her shoulder and up her neck. Greyback must have gotten a good bite out of her. Theo gently stroked Daphne's hair as the blonde girl weakly reached a hand toward Leila. Leila took Daphne's hand and gave it a squeeze. Draco stood on the floor beside them until Theo motioned for Draco to follow him this way the girls could have a moment alone. She needed to be strong for Daphne. At least she wanted to put on that front because inside she was crumbling.
"Theo just told me about Weasley. I'm so sorry," Daphne said weakly.
"Let's not talk about him; how are you?" Leila responded.
"I think I'll live," Daphne said. "But I'll have these scars for life."
Tears began to stream down Daphne's cheek.
"I don't think any of us will be the same after today," Leila responded.
Leila gently ruffled Daphne's hair as Harry approached them.
"Leila, I need to see you, alone," Harry said.
"Well, I'm…" Leila began.
"Go on, I'm not going anywhere," Daphne said.
Leila looked reluctantly to her brother before she hopped off the table. Everyone they passed by seemed to be a blur. Slughorn was healing Filch. Sprout was healing a seventh year Hufflepuff. Trelawney was sitting with Pavarti Patil as they both pulled a blanket over Lavender Brown's dead body. Leila stopped for a moment. That easily could have been Daphne. Her head began to spin and her knees began to buckle, but Harry reached for her. She turned around to see and hear Ron crying out in agony as he leaned over Fred's body. She needed air. This was all too much. Too much death, too much pain. Things didn't have to be this way. Leila collapsed to the floor and began to cry hysterically at Harry's feet. Professor McGonagall rushed toward them and attempted to examine Leila, but she kept fighting her away.
"Professor Slughorn, we need a Calming Draught over here," Professor McGonagall called.
"No!" Leila screamed.
Leila remembered all the Calming Draughts that had been forced down her throat, causing her to have a numbing sensation. As hard as this was, she would much rather feel this horrendous pain than ever feel numb to her emotions again. Leila tried to calm herself, but it was no use. The sobs continued to come. Professor McGonagall handed the Calming Draught to Harry, assuming that if someone would be able to get Leila to take it, it would be him. Harry pleaded with her to take it, but Leila refused it. Leila attempted to slow her breathing down, which seemed to be working. She closed her eyes and tried to block everything from her mind. Snape. Fred. She began to hum that hauntingly familiar melody that her mother had once sang to her. Something about it seemed to sooth her as she rocked herself until a pair of arms wrapped around her. Without even opening her eyes, she could tell that it was Draco's arms around her. Those arms that she had often felt safe in comforted her, but they also brought a feeling of guilt surging through her. When she finally opened her eyes, she pushed Draco's arms off her and stood up. She headed to exit the Great Hall as she pulled her brother by his arm, when Draco's arm reached out and grabbed Leila's. Harry could see the slight tension between the two so he left the room to wait in the corridor for Leila. Leila rolled her eyes at Draco and pulled her arm out of his grasp.
"Leila, you told me not to shut people out. Don't you shut me out," Draco said.
"I lied," Leila said coldly. "You were right, it doesn't change anything."
Draco stood there stunned by Leila's harsh words as she walked back into the hall. Maybe she just needed time. He just hoped that she and her brother didn't do anything stupid. Leila found Harry waiting in the corridor holding onto the flask in his hand. She walked up to him and attempted to wipe away the tears stains on her cheeks. Truth was, her heart hurt too much and not only from Fred's death. She didn't want to treat Draco so coldly, but if Cedric and Fred were any proof; they proved that those she loved ended up dead. In the brief moments of clarity she had rationalized that it was necessary to find a way to get rid of him. Really, it was for his own good. He should stay away from her and far away from her. Maybe then he'd had a decent chance of surviving. Leila exhaled deeply as she looked to Harry who leaned against the wall holding the flask in front of her.
"Do you know what this is?" Harry asked.
"You know as well as I do that they're memories," Leila said.
"But do you know what memories?" Harry asked.
"I have an idea," Leila shrugged.
"Tell me what they are," Harry commanded.
"It's something you're going to have to see for yourself," Leila responded.
Harry examined the flask once more.
"Will you come with me?" Harry asked.
"But what about the prophecy?' Leila asked.
"To hell with the prophecy," Harry responded. "Besides, if I'm as thick as you claim I am, you're probably going to have to do some explaining."
The clock began to toll, at least the bells that were left in the clock tower. If they were going to do this, they should probably do it before Voldemort commanded his Death Eaters to attack again. Leila sighed and grabbed her brother's arm as they headed up the stairs for the Headmaster's office. After they went up one flight of stairs, they began to run down the corridor and came to a quick halt when they reached the stone gargoyle. Harry looked to Leila who bit her bottom lip.
"Don't you know the password?" Harry asked.
"I did at one time," Leila responded.
"Well try it," Harry furthered.
"Dumbledore," Leila stated.
The staircase began to rise in front of them. Harry jumped onto the stairs, pulling Leila after him. Leila had always thought that password had been used as a taunt. Snape had killed Dumbledore after all; only know with her memories back, she knew better. It was actually rather clever of him. Obviously the Carrows accepted it as a taunt, but knowing Snape's real intention changed the meaning behind it all. Once they got up the stairs, Harry opened the door to the Headmaster's office and Leila tip-toed behind him. The place almost felt as if it was a sacred place, especially now that it's last two former occupants had died in order to keep her and Harry safe. All the portraits of the former headmasters were empty. Leila had been hoping Professor Dumbledore would have been in his: surely even in death the old man would have been able to help her sort out her thoughts. The cabinet containing the stone basin for the pensieve opened automatically as Harry walked by. Harry looked to Leila who nodded her head. He walked over to it and pulled the metallic bowl from the basin and tossed it toward the center of the room, like he no doubt had seen Dumbledore do before. The bowl hovered midair in front of the Headmaster's desk as Harry gruffly muttered for Leila to follow him.
She followed, but her thoughts were focused on the memories she had already seen. Snape had been their protector. Looking back on it, more things made sense. Like that night third year when he had thrown himself in between them and Remus in his werewolf form. He had been protecting them, something that seemed terribly uncharacteristic of the man that they had known. .. though of course none of them questioned at the time because they were glad their lives had been spared. Harry uncorked the flask and poured the silver liquid into the penseieve. He looked to Leila who stood on the stone steps and held his hand out to her.
"Together," Harry said.
Leila placed her hand in Harry's as he leaned forward into the penseieve. As Harry leaned into the penseieve, Leila could feel herself being dragged in after. Leila could feel herself falling into the scene as she landed on top of Harry. She muttered her apologies after Harry groaned from the rough landing. After she pushed herself off her brother she found herself paying attention to the scene. This wasn't one of the memories she had seen when she had entered Snape's memories before. They were outside behind some bushes with an odd looking dark-haired boy. The boy appeared to be spying on a playground a little distance away. When she caught a glimpse of his face….
"Harry, is that who I think it is," Leila whispered.
"Yeah, it's Snape," Harry responded. "Let's go see what he's looking at."
The Potter twins walked until they were standing behind the bushes with a younger version of their former Potions professor. There were two young girls swinging on the swings, a ginger and a brunette.
"Leila, the one on the right looks like you," Harry whispered.
"I think that's because that girl is Mum," Leila answered.
"Why the hell is Snape watching Mum?" Harry asked.
Leila was thankful that Harry became distracted by the brunette girl she was positive was a younger version of Aunt Petunia screaming at her younger sister. Leila could see why Petunia was mad Lily had just launched herself from the swing and hadn't gone crashing to the ground. Instead she seemed to float in the air longer than normal and landed quite gracefully on her two feet.
"You obviously didn't inherit Mum's gracefulness," Harry commented.
"Shut up, Harry," Leila muttered.
Petunia stopped her swing by dragging her feet in the sand before she marched over to where her younger sister stood. Lily held her hand out for her older sister to grab, but Petunia shoved the offer away. The older sister's face was covered in a sneer as the girl began to run away from the playground. Lily called for her sister to wait when Leila looked down by her feet and noticed that Snape was no longer peeping behind the bushes. She looked around to find Snape sprinting behind the cover of the bushes in the direction Lily was chasing Petunia. Harry was still attempting to watch the girls from a distance when Leila tapped him on the shoulder and pointed to Snape. Harry groaned as they began to jog to catch up with the scene for a better view.
"Who would've guessed he could run," Leila panted.
They watched as Snape took shelter in a hole in the trunk of a tree while Lily and Petunia neared them. Leila then surprised Harry by stepping away from the bushes and walked right toward the young girls. Lily had overtaken Petunia and pleaded with her older sister to watch. As Leila drew closer to a younger version of her mother she could see that there was a flower in the girls hand opening and closing. Petunia marched closer, still with a sour expression on her face, and knocked the flower out of her sister's hand.
"You're a freak Lily! I'm telling Mummy!" Petunia shrieked. "You're a freak!"
They watched as Snape came out of his hiding place and approached the girls. He called her mother a witch, which probably wasn't the way to go about things. It was rather comical. Snape began explaining to Lily and Petunia about Hogwarts. Lily was clearly very excited about the situation and if Leila wasn't mistaken, there was a look of jealousy on Petunia's face.
The scene changed…
There seemed to be a swirl of scenes having to do with their first time heading to Hogwarts. There seemed to be some commotion going on between Lily and Petunia. Petunia was giving her normal "freak" lecture when Lily actually retaliated. This time with something Petunia could hardly refute and Leila could hardly believe. Aunt Petunia had written a letter to Professor Dumbledore asking if she could go to Hogwarts! Leila's hands flew over her mouth at that startling announcement.
"Wonder if Uncle Vernon knows about that," Harry said.
"Doubt it, but I suppose it explains her intense resentment," Leila answered. "Can you imagine how different things would be if she had gotten a letter too?"
"Dudley a wizard," Harry snickered.
"He probably wouldn't even exist," Leila said rolling her eyes.
Snape was waiting for Lily to board the train. When she finally met up with him, tears were streaming down her face from Petunia's cruelness. Snape tried to cheer her up with talk of the Hogwarts Houses as they walked down the corridor of the train looking for a compartment. Snape told Lily that she had better be in Slytherin as they passed by a corridor with another familiar face. Leila couldn't help but smile at the sight of her father because he looked so much like Harry, well, it was probably the other way around. But James seemed to be a bit of a big-head while it was strange to see a somewhat timid looking Sirius in the same compartment. The boys were already beginning to argue, and argue over something as simple as Houses. Lily stood there with a flustered look on her face while Snape took on James and Sirius' remarks. But it was the last scene that made Leila cringe. James purposely tripped Snape and called him the name she often heard Sirius use when they were at Grimmauld Place: Snivellus.
The scene changed again…
They were standing in a group at the front of the Great Hall waiting to be sorted. It was strange seeing Professor McGonagall looking so young as she waited to sort Leila and Harry's parents. Leila turned her head and caught sight of a platinum blonde at the Slytherin table: Lucius Malfoy. Her heart panged at the sight of Draco's father. She felt guilty for the way she had treated Draco; but in her heart she didn't mean what she told him. And if Draco knew and loved her as much as she thought he did, and then he probably didn't fully believe the act she put on for him. But Leila was shaken from her thoughts as she heard Professor McGonagall call for her mother to be sorted. Leila watched as Lily walked up the steps as nervously as she had when she herself was sorted. The only difference was the Sorting Hat placed Lily in Gryffindor, while Leila had been sorted into Slytherin. Both Harry and Leila turned to look at Snape who groaned at the sight of Lily heading to the Gryffindor table where Sirius was making room for her on the bench beside him. But Lily was stubborn and immediately turned her back to Sirius.
"So that's where you get that from," Harry grinned.
"You're every bit as stubborn as I am," Leila retorted.
Professor McGonagall continued to call the students forward. Harry and Leila watched as Remus and Pettigrew joined Sirius and Lily at the Gryffindor table. Leila glared at a pudgy Pettigrew as he walked to the Gryffindor table. Too bad he hadn't been sorted into a different House…but maybe even that wouldn't have done any good. Maybe then her parents never would've gotten together. Maybe she and Harry wouldn't exist. As hard or terrible things seemed to be, there was always a reason for the way things happened. Even if she couldn't comprehend or understand the reason. Harry gently smacked her shoulder as McGonagall called their father up to get sorted. Leila already knew he was placed in Gryffindor, but it was somewhat amusing to see a slight look of anxiety on his face especially after how he had treated Snape on the train. Leila actually let a slight smile spread across her lips as she watched her father practically strut over to the Gryffindor table. McGonagall continued down the list until she came to Snape. He was placed in Slytherin and he made his way over to the table with a slight look of disappointment on his face as Lucius Malfoy welcomed him to the table.
"Is that how you felt?" Harry asked.
Leila looked to her brother oddly for a moment as the similarities to her own sorting baffled her. Harry had gone before her and had been placed in Gryffindor, much to Leila's dismay because Hermione Granger had already been placed there. Leila had been separated from the person she was closest to at Hogwarts. She also had been welcomed to the table by a Malfoy.
"I never thought of it that way before," Leila commented.
"It's not like you could have," Harry responded. "You had nothing to compare it to."
The scene swirled before them…
Several scenes quickly flashed by them of James Potter. James ran down the corridor with Sirius and he purposely knocked Snape's books from his hands. Lily yelled at James for being a toerag. There were several more scenes of James being a prat to Snape before the scenes started to show Lily and Snape's falling-out. It showed Lily several times trying to persuade Snape to get away from the Dark Arts. But Snape was too blinded by his hatred for James to see what Lily was really asking. But then again, she knew because she had tried this herself. Harry was still probably too thick to understand the importance of what was going on. But Leila knew, not only because she had already found out that Snape had loved her mother, but because she had also dealt with the same thing in her own life.
The scene dissolved…
They were standing in the Great Hall as students were hovered over exams. They were taking their O.W.L.s. Leila looked to Harry who looked apprehensive.
"This is what you saw, isn't it?" Leila asked.
"Yeah," Harry responded. "I'm going to keep my distance this time, but if you want a closer look, I'm not going to stop you."
Leila nodded her head. From what Harry had told her, this was when Snape had called their mother a Mudblood. But she had to admit she was curious about what Harry had seen, so she ran ahead to catch up to the group exiting the Great Hall. She stood by as she watched James attack Snape: taunting him and hoisting him into the air by his pants. Leila's hands flew over her mouth as she watched Snape hovering midair. She looked back to her brother who was kicking the ground, not paying very much attention to the scene. Then came the fated scene, the unforgiveable name: Mudblood. From Snape's reaction she could tell that he immediately regretted his choice of words, but once again her mother's stubbornness came into play. And her stubbornness continued even as the scene changed and Snape sat outside the Gryffindor common room entrance.
"This part's new," Harry commented.
Snape tried to apologize to Lily; but Lily had been hurt one too many times by him. She was finally giving up all hope. Which led to swirl of more heartbreaking scenes. Leila knew they had to be from their seventh year at Hogwarts because the scenes were of James and Lily. The pair walking down the corridor holding hands. The pair kissing outside by the fountain. The pair sitting by each other in class as Lily furiously took notes and James scribbled 'I love you' on her paper. It must have been hard for Snape to watch the person he loved with another person. Leila couldn't even imagine watching Draco with someone else, even when she had tried to push him in that direction.
The faces of James and Lily contorted until…
Suddenly, there was a blinding white light which caused Leila to reach for Harry's hand. She grasped it tightly as they suddenly appeared on a hill with a grown-up Snape panting for breath. He gripped his wand tightly, but fear was clearly written on his face. The fear infected Harry and Leila too as they stayed much closer to each other than normal. The bright light returned, causing Snape to fall to his knees with his wand lying carelessly on the ground.
"No! Don't kill me!" Snape cried.
Before them stood Albus Dumbledore, his face more solemn than Leila ever remembered seeing it. He clearly wanted nothing to do with Snape; the words he spoke to the younger man were cold. Snape begged Dumbledore to do something about the Prophecy concerning Harry, which would put Lily in danger. Leila could see the tears practically streaming down Snape's cheeks, such a contrast to the man she remembered. Dumbledore practically sneered out Snape's other options which included handing the Potters over to Voldemort, except for Lily; but the Dark Lord had shot that idea down. Leila looked to Harry who had his brow furrowed; but she knew that this was only the beginning and her brother would come to understand.
"Hide them all!" Snape croaked. "Keep her—keep them—safe. Please! I beg you."
"And what will you do in return?" Dumbledore asked.
"Anything," Snape answered.
Harry's eyes turned to Leila as the scene began to swirl and Leila recognized this next part…
"Where are you?" Snape shouted.
"I'm up here, Severus," Dumbledore said lightly.
Snape grudgingly walked up the stairs to the upper level of the Headmaster's office. Breathing heavily, Snape looked like he had something he needed to tell the old man.
"I thought—I thought you said you were going—to keep her—safe," Snape said raggedly.
Dumbledore took a deep breath and traced his fingers over the window pane before speaking.
"Lily and James put their faith in the wrong person, Severus, rather like you. Weren't you hoping that Lord Voldemort would spare her?"
Harry took a few steps closer to Dumbledore, while Leila remained a bit behind.
"The twins survive," Dumbledore said. "They both have her eyes. You remember Lily Evans's eyes, don't you?
"Don't! Stop!" Snape shouted.
"And Leila looks just like…" Dumbledore began.
"Lily is gone! Dead!" Snape yelled
"Is this remorse?" Dumbledore asked.
"I wish—I wish I were dead," Snape sobbed.
"And what use would that be to anyone? If you loved Lily Evans, truly loved her, the way forward is clear," Dumbledore finished.
Snape stood there for a few moments, processing what Dumbledore was telling him. Harry looked to Leila as if he was trying to comprehend it all, but was severely struggling.
"You know why Lily died. Let's make sure her sacrifice wasn't in vain. Help me protect them," Dumbledore sighed.
"They don't need protection! The Dark Lord is gone!" Snape hissed.
"The Dark Lord will return and when he does the children will be in terrible danger," Dumbledore argued.
"What will I have to do?" Snape questioned.
"In time, Severus, in time," Dumbledore continued.
Snape hit his head against the stone wall and appeared to be fighting back tears.
"No one can know. Especially not Potter's son!" Snape said.
"Do you have a soft spot for the girl? She does look remarkably like…"Dumbledore began.
"No one can know! Your word!" Snape shouted.
"That I should never reveal the best of you Severus?" Dumbledore asked.
The next scene came into play…
Snape sat beside Dumbledore at the Staff table. Snape's gaze was focused on the Slytherin table, specifically where Leila Potter sat beside Draco Malfoy. Leila could tell that it was third year because Draco's arm was in that bloody sling, even though he didn't really need it. Leila could see the annoyed look on her face as Draco kept poking her trying to get her attention. Dumbledore pointed at the pair and chuckled as Leila smacked Draco's bad arm. For a moment Draco looked surprised that Leila smacked him before he started acting-up how terrible the pain was in his arm. Young Leila rolled her eyes knowing full-well that Draco was faking it. Snape looked to Dumbledore and shook his head.
"Shouldn't you tell Lil-Leila?" Snape said lowly.
"And have her miss out on a few years of being blissfully ignorant?" Dumbledore smiled.
"Being ignorant about Leila's Prophecy won't help her change it," Snape growled.
"When the time is right Severus," Dumbledore said. "Besides, if you hadn't been in Trelawney's room last week, we'd all be blissfully ignorant about it."
"Have you told the boy?" Snape asked.
"Severus, why are you in such a hurry to have them grow up? I think it best to have them preserve their innocence for a while before they need to face the harsh reality," Dumbledore said.
Leila looked to her brother who looked to her uncertainly as Snape growled. Leila looked back to her younger self once more as Draco winked at her causing to stand up from the table and walk away.
The scene began to change once more…
The office swirled, but they were back in the office. Dumbledore sat at his desk while Snape stood nearby. Dumbledore began to explain how he knew that Voldemort had ordered Draco to kill him. It appeared that this was before the beginning of last school year. And then came Dumbledore's request: that Snape kill him. Harry looked directly to Leila who nodded her head.
"What?" Harry gasped.
"It was all planned," Leila whispered.
"All of it?" Harry asked.
"I'm sure Dumbledore drinking that potion wasn't planned, but I think it provided a good opportunity; especially with the Death Eaters in the school," Leila responded.
"I—I—I—" Harry stuttered.
Leila reached for her brother's hand and gently squeezed it. Harry faintly squeezed her hand back as the scene began to dissolve…
Snape began to walk down a cobbled street. Leila looked up to examine the buildings before she turned to Harry. The place looked somewhat familiar and for a moment it was hard to figure out where they were; but Leila then recognized the park where a certain statue of two adults with two children was missing.
"I think we went back in time," Leila whispered.
"Where?" Harry asked.
"Godric's Hollow," Leila choked out.
Harry's eyes widened once more as they tried to keep up with Snape's quick pace. The older man walked with determination in his step and when he came to the end of the alleyway, he practically collapsed against the wall of the nearest building as a gasp escaped his lips. Leila was too horrified at the sight to even move. Before them stood her and Harry's very first home: in ruins. Harry reached for Leila's hand and dragged her along the stone path toward the house. They got to the front door and Leila jerked back.
"Harry, I can't," Leila whimpered.
"Leila, I can't do this alone," Harry responded.
Leila caught a sob in the back of her throat and turned back to see Snape slowly inching toward the house. Snape was just about to enter the house when she entwined her fingers with her brother's and took a deep breath. Harry walked through the open doorway which led into a front hall. Leila wasn't sure which way to go, but Harry seemed to be able to smoothly navigate their way through the small cottage. Despite the place being in shambles, it looked like it had once been a happy home. Pictures of her and Harry were hung on the wall. As Leila continued to walk, she didn't even notice Harry had stopped at the bottom of the stairs until she ran into him. She looked up to see Harry's blanched face. She tried to see what he saw, but Snape climbing the stairs blocked the dreadful sight for a moment. When he had passed she saw what grieved her brother. Their father lay motionless on the floor. Leila flung her arms around her brother's neck as a sob escaped her lips. She tried to keep herself composed because she knew Harry would want to climb those stairs.
With Harry leading the way holding onto Leila's hand, they ascended the stairs. Leila was careful not to step on her dead father, even if this was just a memory. She couldn't even bring herself to look down at him. Instead, she focused on the back of Harry's head as he led the way. Ahead of them in the small hallway, Snape struggled to reach the room at the end. The tears began to flow more fluidly down Leila's cheeks. She knew where they were going. As much as Leila wanted to stop and save herself the pain of seeing this memory, she urged herself forward with her brother. He needed her. In reality, they needed each other. They completed each other. Harry stopped as they watched Snape collapse to the ground. Harry closed his eyes and took in a deep breath and this time it was Leila who led them forward into the room.
The sound of Leila's gasp filled the air as was the first one to enter the room, the first one to gaze upon the sight of her mother's dead body. Harry wrapped his arms around her and turned her closer to him as they both softly cried while holding each other. They stayed there for a while just holding each other until they saw Snape move for Lily's body. Snape gently picked up the dead woman's body and cradled it close to his own. His sobs filled the air as he rocked the woman. It wasn't until then that screams began to pierce the air. Leila turned to the crib to find baby Leila screaming. Baby Harry was also crying, but surprisingly he held on tightly to his screaming sister. For a second, Snape looked at the children and he reached his finger out toward them. Baby Leila clutched his finger and for a few seconds she stopped screaming and stared at the strange man. Snape's bottom lip began to quiver as he quickly tore his finger and glance away from the child, who once more started to scream. The man simply clutched tightly to Lily Potter's body for a few moment before he placed a gentle kiss on the woman's forehead. He gently set her down and arranged her ginger hair nicely, so that even in death she looked beautiful before he disapparated away.
Leila cried against her brother's shoulder as the scene began to change for a final time…
They were back on the Astronomy Tower with Snape and Dumbledore.
"That night in Godric's Hollow, when Lily Potter cast herself between the twins and Lord Voldemort, the curse rebounded. When that happened, a part of Voldemort's soul latched itself onto the first living thing it could find: Harry."
Leila's eyes widened as she looked to her brother; but he wouldn't look at her. Suddenly, she heard Snape mutter the words for a Patronus when a doe began to prance about the Astronomy Tower. A Patronus so familiar, one very similar to her own mother's. But right now, it wasn't Snape's love for her mother that she was focused on. Rather, it was the reading between the lines about Voldemort's soul being latched to Harry; but Dumbledore interrupted that.
"Lily," Dumbledore whispered. "After all this time?"
"Always."
They practically flew out of the penseieve and Leila panted for breath against the stone floor of the Headmaster's office beside her brother. She couldn't find the right words to say to him. Nothing seemed appropriate. Harry was a Horcrux and the only way to kill Voldemort was to destroy all his Horcruxes. Harry had to die: simple as that. Tears escaped from her eyes and slid down her cheeks. She turned her head and looked to her brother with tears gleaming in her eyes.
Neither said a word.
Author's Note: So much happened this chapter. And Fred *sob* I do hope I gave him a decent death scene. Normally, I would apologize for not updating sooner…but I did it on purpose this time. As an author, I was very disappointed with the lack of response to the last chapter. Especially considering the time and tears I put into it. So, I was a witch with a "b" and I waited until I got at least a decent amount of reviews. But in my absence from posting, I was still writing. I have somewhat of a story map developed for the sequel story, I got another chapter for the prequel written, probably about half of the epilogue written, most of the next chapter done, as well as key scenes written. I know it probably wasn't the best thing to do; but what can I say there are times when one gets really insecure about stuff...and that took a hit on my writing. Sorry if I offended anyone over that.
Thelonglostpotter: I'm glad that you liked the last chapter. A lot of tears went into it (same with this one…lol) Sometimes I wonder if people have actually read the story before this one, so kudos to you for getting through it! Draco's happiest moment, yeah, Leila saying she loved him back :D Thanks for the encouragement for me to keep writing. Really, it is people like you that review and encourage me to write more.
Alyssa103: Snape's death *sniffle* Well, I'm glad that you're more excited about the prequel because it's far easier for me to write! Lol. I'm already 4 chapters into it and boy let me tell you it's different going back and writing it especially considering how much Leila has developed since the beginning of "We'll Be a Dream" haha. I'm glad that you liked how I portrayed the battle. I really wanted to get the feeling of how intense it was and I always try to throw a bit of humor in there. Can't have too much crying. Haha. I don't mind you rambling, really, it's entertaining to read. I'm also happy that you have such confidence in the sequel…I've already gotten key plot ideas down. It's just going to be difficult because I don't really have a guide except to somehow get to where my epilogue puts them 19 years later. Thanks for your lovely review! I really appreciate it that you put some thought into them. It brightens my day and keeps me writing.
xXMizz Alec VolturiXx: I'm glad someone loved that last chapter. Haha. I feel that Ron and Draco are going to be interesting to watch as 'friends' I felt that Leila, who is normally accident prone anyway, needed a sense of feeling helpless to help build her up for something that is yet to happen. She wants to be the one in control of her fate…Yes! Theo lived and so did Daphne! But like she said, things are going to change. It would be super adorable to see Theo/Daphne's kids and Draco/Leila's kids together. Aww…makes me smile. Even I cried while writing Snape's death scene! It wasn't easy to write, but compared to Fred's it was. Lol. I do hope I did Fred justice. I hope you had your tissues ready. As far as Draco's parents, I think it will be chapter after next that we'll get a better look at them and what happens. We'll have to see if your predictions are correct. I do agree that Narcissa is a strong woman, I've kinda always loved her after I read Deathly Hallows and what she did for Harry. Also, I'm flattered that you honored me with your longest review you've written! Really, it was a joyful surprise to see! I do appreciate your reviews…since the very beginning (I remember!) Thanks for reading!
Luli Cullen: Glad that you liked the chapter and thanks for the review.
xxxRena: I'm flattered that you enjoyed that chapter. I hope this chapter didn't cause you too many tears. So far Daphne and Theo are alive, but will they survive the whole thing remains to be seen, doesn't it? I'm thankful that you took the time to review the last chapter. Thanks!
RHatch89: Yeah, it was sad wasn't it and I'm going to assume that this chapter probably added to the sadness. I hope it didn't leave you too depressed. I really appreciate that you take the time to review. Thanks!
CaspterGirl523: I'm sorry you were bawling, this chapter was probably just as bad. And believe me; I bawled my eyes out during both chapters. But Fred's death was so hard to write. I wanted to make sure I did it justice. Hopefully this time you weren't at a public library when you read this chapter. I'm glad that you like how I incorporate Leila into the story. Just goes to show how one person can change things, even while keeping the basic storyline the same. :D I'm flattered that you love my story and think that it's one of your favorite Draco/OC stories. Really, I appreciate it.
Marlene: Yeah last chapter was sad and this one was probably just as sad. Or maybe that's just my perspective from writing it. Fred's death literally made me depressed for a few hours and then the seeing Godric's Hollow in the memories…*sob* I'll admit it, as an author I bawled my eyes out. I really try to get appropriate emotions when I write. I'm glad I'm still able to surprise you! Thanks for your support and reviews! I really appreciate it!
XxShadowhunterxX: I'll admit the first part of your first sentence kinda threw me. I wasn't exactly sure how to take it haha…but I'm glad that you think this story had become great. It is kinda scary looking at just how much Draco and Leila have grown…although they both have their moments of being stubborn. Yes, Snape's death was inevitable but like you said every true Potterhead somewhat adores Snape and even though it wasn't often seen, he did have a softer spot for Leila than Harry, without trying to come off as someone he wasn't. Yeah, I really needed a moment to get Theo to turn to the "Light" and Daphne was it. I mean, his father already died because of that night at Malfoy Manor so really, Daphne was all he had left so to speak. Yes, Draco's Patronus is the male version of a ferret. So he and Leila kinda mirror James and Lily which is something I was always intending to show. I was talking with one of my friends I recently allowed to "discover" my story and that was something she commented on was how Draco/Leila have so many similarities to James/Lily. I figured Draco wouldn't be able to produce a Patronus the first time because it is a rather difficult piece of magic and not to mention that only those with good hearts are actually able to produce it, so I think it shows that Draco really is on the Light side, which was something I intended to do from the very beginning despite how long it seemed to take to get there. Haha. Anywho, thanks for your awesome reviews! I always look forward to reading them because you actually put some 'meat' into your reviews. Thanks so much!
LeilaxDraco Fan: Just so you know, I always smile when I type your name to respond to the review. Thought you ought to know *faints* Anyway, now to the actual review…I'm sorry I made you cry and I'm going to assume that this one made you cry too with Fred. If it didn't, I'm sure I cried enough tears for the two of us. Leila, gotta love her, don't ya? Snape's had a bad habit of fumbling up Lily and Leila and I figured that this time he didn't do it by mistake and the second time Leila realized that. She knew what he meant. I'm glad you liked that Daphne joined the battle and that Theo came to her rescue. So now we have 4 Slytherins on the side of the "Light" which will help show that not all Slytherins are evil as McGonagall kinda was getting at. I'm glad that you liked that Draco was able to produce a Patronus. It was definitely because of his memory and Leila. She really has done a lot to change him, even if she didn't intentionally try to do it. And that just goes to prove the power of love…something that Dumbledore also was a firm supporter of. Haha. As far as Leila getting hurt, I wanted her to feel a sense of helplessness for a bit because that will come into play next chapter, with her wanting to be in charge of her own fate. But she realized that despite her injuries, she still could use her head. Thanks for the constant support and reviews! I know I probably say this every time, but I just want to make sure you realize how much I appreciate them and look forward to them! Thanks!
Hollis Annalise: Awww…ugly crying, believe me I understand! I was an absolute wreck writing this chapter! I'm glad you like the words I write. My writing has definitely become more bearable than the beginning (kinda joking, but it has improved. Lol) I'm glad that you thought it was beautiful and while "Lost Along the Way" will come to an end soon, don't worry I have more Leila stories in the works, so hopefully you'll still enjoy reading about her. It made me bawl while writing it when I added Leila to Snape's death scene. She really has a caring heart. I'm glad that you liked what I did with Theo and Daphne. I always wanted Theo to kinda play the role Draco normally would've had, but I needed a reason for him to come to the "Light" and Daphne was that reason. I still have to finish one slightly sad chapter before I think the rest of it won't be anywhere near sad, at least that's not what's planned. Haha…at least not for this story. Thanks so much for your vigilant reviews! I really do look forward to seeing what you have written and I appreciate it very much.
Curiousbookworm: However you got to this part of my story doesn't matter, it's just that you did :D Also, maybe my small town hasn't picked up on this yet but you wrote "Terra's it!" and I'm not sure what it means….or was it an error? Just figured I'd as ;) I apologize that my stories have distracted you from your final exams. I hope you still get good grades. I'm glad that you find my writing addictive and that you like how I use the original storyline but put my own touch to it. That was always my intention from the beginning. Lol. I'll continue to write as long as I have people reading. Thanks for reviewing hope your exams went well!
Savil: Yeah, it's hard to write knowing that so many characters are going to die. You have no idea how many times I complained about this chapter. It wasn't that I didn't know where I was going with it…it was just that it was so emotionally draining to write! Fred's death…ugh…I was an absolute wreck while I wrote it but I did spare myself a bit by saving Remus…although in the next story I think his grief is going to play a role because Tonks still did die. But since I did save Remus, I will still end up killing someone else. Draco has come quite a long way since the beginning of the last story…even in this story. That's why it's kinda amusing and somewhat difficult writing the prequel (which I'm already 4 chapters into) because as a character he digresses, but I know where he ends up, so it all works. Thanks so much for your reviews and for reading my story! I really do appreciate the "work" you do for my work. :D
AbominableSnowman23: Wow, talk about an insanely long review! LOVE IT! Gives me something to read for once. Haha. But, I already responded to a lot of your review in your PM. I do appreciate chatting with you and reading your Remember the Titans story. So, you should keep up your writing. Thanks so much for your reviews! I appreciate them so much…you have no idea! Actually, you probably do. Lol. Thanks again for your support!
Nikki-W94: Thanks for your 2 reviews! Yay! They really do make me happy. Actually, it makes me happy in general to receive a review but I get an extra joy getting reviews from past chapters. Lol. I'm a freak, I know. I'm sorry you started crying when Snape died…I'm going to assume you did the same with Fred? I know I did. Fred's death was actually way harder for me to write. I did want to show a bit of the old Draco because despite how much he's changed and how far he's come as a character, he's still not perfect and still capable of slipping backwards. But that also helped show the growth between him and Harry. Who woulda thunk that Harry would've ever been the one to encourage Draco? (bad grammar on purpose . lol) Thanks so much for the reviews! I really do appreciate them!
SkippingPumpkin: Skip you? Haha. Just kidding. I still can't believe I let you read this, but now that I have I'm glad I did. You've been really helpful with this. I'm sorry I made you cry (I already know you cried over this chapter) Muah hahahahahahaha. Yes, that's me being evil. And you did find out what already happened because you edited the chapter! I'm glad we're friends…on the internet. :P Love you! :D
Guest: If you read the author's note before my responses, you'll know why I took forever to update. But thanks for reminding me that I should update. It's nice to know that there are people waiting for the update. :D