AN: Alrighty, darlings, I've got something else here for you. I'm loving the reviews! Thanks to Ern Estine 13624 for sticking around so far. Keep the reviews coming and I'll keep the chapters flowing. Ah, who am I kidding? This story is all I'm writing. So, this is another long one and I guess I have to put in a few warnings. First, I just want to say that confused!Harry is so adorable to me so I wanted to go there with that. As I've said, this will be a Drarry but that doesn't mean Harry won't have happenings with other people. But, Draco's time will come, I promise. There are some touchy subjects in this one but I don't think I'll be stepping on any toes, So, read and review! Enjoy!
"Well, well, well. What did I say? Look at you! Tattooed and stuck with a needle. Alright, lose the medal, boy." Ms. Heather said with a sneer.
Harry sighed and reached up to his lip, removing the lip ring he'd gotten used to. She slipped it his envelope and he caught sight of his glasses. His fists clenched and he glared at the smug woman. She eyed his tattoo as if the devil himself had applied it on his skin. He defiantly left it on display as he walked up to the next table. Em was just stepping away, barefoot and without her hoodie.
He stripped off his borrowed hoodie, kicked off his shoes, and balled up his socks. His feet were cold and silent as they padded over to stand with Em and Nick. Josh and Olivia soon followed. They didn't talk, all wearing downcast expressions. It was hard, after the near week they had together, to be upbeat at being back at Karlbergs. The whole room went oddly silent, save for the few remarks the adults relished in sniping. Every now and again, one kid would sigh.
"Alright, disorderlies. Line up, now!" Mr. Peters barked.
They all did as he said and Harry watched as Mr. Peters pushed on some of the other kids who weren't going fast enough. He stared around, surprise lighting in him. Everyone had their heads down and was as silent as they could manage. Harry thought back to Olivia's warning. Her, Nick, and Josh had made it very clear that the adults were going to start getting rough.
Mr. Peters led them towards the counseling rooms, barking out insults gleefully. It was surreal to see the disorderlies getting treated so horridly. It was truly sickening and made his gut twist. However, bearing in mind what the other's said, he kept his head down and his jaw clenched. They entered the room and were made to break up in their given groups. Em, Nick, Josh, Olivia, and he all walked over to Gibbs.
"Great, just what I need. More time to deal with the misfits. Good weekend?" Gibbs sneered.
"It was fine." Josh said shortly.
"Ah huh. Look pretty down to me, Josh. Wouldn't be due to being back here at Karlbergs, would it?" Gibbs asked, eyeing them disdainfully.
"How did you guess?" Josh muttered. Harry's heart stuttered when Gibbs leaned over and clipped Josh over the head, hard. Josh's head snapped to the side and his jaw worked but he said nothing.
"Well, I'm not too happy to be here either. I'd much rather be out and doing what I want but I'm not. And, who's fault is that? Who, Olivia?" Gibbs growled.
"Your employee?" Olivia asked sarcastically. Harry was startled by Gibbs reaching out and grabbing the leg of her chair, tipping it back. Olivia tensed and gripped the sides of the seat as Gibbs rocked her, clearly threatening to send her sprawling.
"No, it's yours. All of you. Seeing as you lot are pathetic in the normal department. So, I'll ask again. Whose fault, Olivia?"
"Mine." She spat, her eyes narrowed.
"Wrong." Gibbs smirked, tipping her chair back even more. A small squeal erupted and one of Olivia's arms pinwheeled as she leaned forward.
"Ours! All of ours!" She corrected. Gibbs snorted and abruptly dropped her. Olivia sagged and closed her eyes, breathing deeply through her nose.
"That's right. So, misfits, I want you all to think about what you've done."
Gibbs sneered and stood up, departing to go to the snack table. It was known that only the adults had access to it. Harry stared, wide eyed, between Olivia and Josh. They both look pissed. He didn't blame them, knowing he'd be equally furious in their position. Sad thing was, he wasn't even in their position and yet, he was angry on their behalf. They didn't speak, all just sitting there glumly and in silence. After eating two donuts, Gibbs walked back over and sat down.
"Been thinking?" He asked. No one said anything and he sighed in a long suffering way.
"Harry!" Gibbs burst out abruptly and Harry gave a jolt of shock. "I see you got a new tattoo."
"Yes." Harry murmured.
"Well, let us see." Gibbs ordered. Harry slowly held out his arm, his own eyes locking onto his healed up tattoo. His heart still warmed at the sight of it. Not for the first time, he sent an internal thanks to Russell.
"Of course, only misfits like you lot would get such meaningless tattoos. What's that even stand for?" Gibbs asked, his curiosity obvious.
"I- Nothing." Harry replied, unwilling to divulge anything to Gibbs. The bulky man seemed to sense this and scowled at Harry.
"Stupid thing, getting a tattoo. It's permanent now. You can't get rid of it. As you get older, it will wrinkle and fade and just grow ugly. Waste of time and money." Gibbs growled, his lip curling.
"Thanks for your concern but I'll decide what's a waste of time and what isn't." Harry said shortly.
Gibbs face contorted in anger and Harry had one second to brace himself before Gibbs stood up and prowled over. Gibbs got right into his face, his twisted features obscuring Harry's vision. Harry reared back, the putrid stench of gasoline assaulting his senses. Gibbs reached out one hand and gripped the back of his chair, effectively crowding and trapping Harry where he was. Harry blinked, disoriented, and held in a flinch as Gibbs reached up to grasp a handful of his messy hair in a rough hold. Gibbs sneered down at him as he yanked his head back by his hair, forcing Harry to look up into his face.
"If we left that up to you, boy, the whole world would go to hell. You deciding what's a waste of time and what isn't, is exactly what put you here, needing to be trained to behave like an animal." Gibbs spat.
Harry clenched his jaw, his heart pounding. His mind whirred and he felt detached from reality. How could adults just go about abusing these kids? What right did Gibbs have to touch him? It was wrong on so many levels and his stomach churned at the thought that not one of the guardians even cared what happened to the disorderlies here. Harry didn't say anything as Gibbs glared down at him, refusing to speak. It was hard to do, to curb his natural reflex of snapping back, but he managed.
It was just in his nature to be defiant. He always had been. His uncle Vernon hated it and maybe that's why Harry had done it. He just knew that he wouldn't submit, couldn't submit, and wouldn't grow meek. He was outspoken, mouthy even, when the situation called for it. Otherwise, he was a creature of nerves and politeness. But, he knew that if he were to talk back in this moment, Gibbs wouldn't hesitate to punish him. And, by punish, he meant hit him.
That was exactly what he didn't want. It was demeaning to get slapped around and distractedly, he wondered how Olivia would be the headstrong person she was when she was knocked around by her father. It was one thing he could say about Vernon. He never actually struck Harry, not in the way that Gibbs would right now. A smack upside the head, a shove, a small kick, or snatching of hair was the norm for Vernon. Only Petunia had ever struck him and it had only been once. Harry remembered how that felt, how much it made him feel insignificant and self-loathing.
He held his tongue.
Gibbs did a sort of sneer-smirk that did nothing but enhance his negative appearance. In that moment, he had found someone he despised more than Snape, which truly was a feat. Gibbs gave one more sharp tug on his hair, lightly and mockingly tapped him on the cheek, and backed off. Harry tried to reign in his anger and managed to do so only marginally.
"Alright, I can't control myself around you bloody idiots. I'm going but you lot are to discuss all the questionable values that you all have."
With that, Gibbs stomped away, his hulking figure swaying intimidatingly. Harry breathed in sharply through his nose, his chest heaving. His lips kept puckering and twisting from side to side as he tried to tap down on his anger. Questionable values? Says the man who went about abusing children mentally and somewhat physically. He sighed and looked up, not surprised to find four pairs of eyes on him.
"I'm fine."
"You sure?" Olivia asked softly. Nick was rocking in his chair, his back bending the plastic back of the chair. His eyes were wide and he seemed to be taking measured breaths.
"Yeah. You? He, well..." Harry trailed off, grimacing.
"No, I'm okay. Gibbs is a prick." Olivia said calmly.
"That he is. Always been one of the rough ones." Josh huffed, rubbing the side of his head petulantly.
"You alright? He's got massive hands and-"
"Yeah, Harry, we're fine. You forget, we are used to this sort of thing. Happens to us every year. It's you we are more concerned about." Josh cut him off.
"Don't worry about me. I will-"
"We will worry about you, Harry. The first year is always the hardest. Some can't handle it. I- We all care and we will worry. I'm worried." Nick blurted out, rocking a little faster.
Harry's face softened and he reached over to squeeze Nick's shoulder, murmuring, "I've got you lot. I'll be fine, don't stress too much."
Harry had taken that up as his mantra as the next week passed. When the weekend rolled around, he was thoroughly disappointed to find that they would be forced to stay this weekend. It was because they took six days the last weekend and had to spend the whole next nine days making up for it.
It was on Saturday that it became clear to Harry that Karlbergs was actually a place of hell. He couldn't even recall the time that he thought that the place might not be so bad. He had been fooled, had been hoodwinked, had been led into a false sense of security. Just like the others had said. And, where they were right on that, they were also right about the adults being rougher and harsher after that first weekend. Things were just getting worse and worse.
Harry was in the kitchen with Em, actively ignoring Butch and his three cronies. It was hard to do with Butch snickering loudly and throwing shredded cheese at them. Em was holding up the meal plans, inspecting them, her eyes narrowed. She looked annoyed and fluster all at once and Harry was vastly amused by the look on the girl.
"Em, what is it?" He asked. She silently huffed, slapping the paper down in front of him and pointing to a section. He leaned over and read it.
Ah. Harry reread the notice on the plan and tried not to grimace. It was hard to make the food taste good with what little they already had. Karlbergs had a low budget, apparently, and didn't want to 'waste' money on things like seasonings. They had discontinued salt and Harry could understand Em's annoyance. Salt was a very popular ingredient they used, making what little they had to be better. And now, they were taking even that away. He didn't know what they would use in the place of it, if they used anything at all. Maybe they would just serve bland food. Brilliant.
He sighed and pushed the meal plans away, giving into the grimace he wanted. It annoyed him what they expected out of him and Em. Each day, they cooked food for the next day and they were expected by the other disorderlies and adults to make up something good. Some days, it just wasn't feasible and the food wasn't all that good. Of course, they got blamed and they were punished for it. So, he was already irritated at the new notice and it seemed that he and Em were feeding off of each other, both getting angrier in silence. And, when a clump of shredded cheese hit the back of his neck, Harry stiffened.
His anger spiked and his fists clenched. First off, that cheese was also used often and they shouldn't have to make due with shortages of it simply because Butch was being a prat. Not to mention that the cheese was bland and had to be used excessively to make any impact. His eyes narrowed and his nails dug into his palm. Em reached out for him, somehow knowing that Harry wouldn't just let it go, but Harry danced out of her grip. He whipped around.
"Give me the cheese. Now, Butch." He snapped. Butch's earlier laughter cut off and his face froze before slowly morphing into delight.
"This cheese?" Butch asked, all wide eyes and innocence, as he wiggled the bag.
"Give it here. We use that stuff and you shouldn't be playing with it." Harry said through clenched teeth.
"Oh, I suppose- Bugger! Oops." Butch mock giggled as he purposely tipped the bag, spilling half of its contents. Harry just reacted.
He darted forward, his blood boiling, and snatched the bag away from Butch. However, the small victory was all for naught as Butch shadowed his retreat, step for step. He reached out, grabbing Harry by the collar of his shirt and giving a good yank. Harry stumbled and the bag of cheese fell forgotten to the floor.
"Let me-"
"Sod it, Potter!" Butch barked out, cutting him off. His fingers twisted in his dull grey shirt.
Harry opened his mouth to reply but he had no idea what to say so the words died on his tongue. And then, Butch was reaching up and punching him in the mouth. Harry's head snapped back and he squeezed his eyes closed, swallowing the metallic taste of blood on his tongue from his lip. For a moment, he was back to being a kid again with no hiding spots from Dudley and no way to avoid his pummeling. His mind was a scattered mess and he just froze where he was.
He felt disappointed in himself. What made him just lock up and become helpless? He couldn't do that. He normally never did. But, that was when someone else needed him. When it came to himself, he had no semblance of heroics. He just failed. The hand holding his shirt tightened and Harry readied himself for the buffet that never came. After nothing, he opened his eyes to see what was halting Butch.
Butch was frozen where he was, eyes locked on something over Harry's shoulder. There was something like fear flickering in his beady glinting eyes, more like wariness. Harry tilted his head and saw that Em was standing right behind him. The thing was, she held no knife. It was just her standing there and clenching her fists, her eyes bright. Harry felt Butch's grip loosen in hesitation.
But, why?
Harry couldn't understand it. Em was smaller than him and softer. She was the same height nearly, yes, but her stature was more petite while Harry was more wiry and lanky. The point was that they both looked altogether nonthreatening, the only difference was that Em seemed more delicate than Harry. Harry couldn't understand what had Butch so cautious when it came to her. He wondered what experience had led Butch to the conclusion he had. Butch's eyes flickered over to Harry and then, after scanning Harry's face, Butch released him, glowering as he did so.
That was the end of that, leaving Harry to feel even more dejected. He may never know what happened between the two rivals. Harry had a tender lip for a day after that but when Nick, who was oh so observant, asked about it, Harry blamed it on himself. He said that he had bit it accidentally too hard, lying through his teeth to Nick only because he was mindful of the pleading pair of green eyes boring into the side of his face. He glanced at Em as he lied, his eyes curious, but she averted her relieved eyes.
During art wind down, the group of misfits all talked during the whole time. Often, they reminisced about the basic sleepover they had on the six day weekend. That had been a brilliant bonding experience. Harry grew more comfortable with them and felt closer to them. It helped that he knew that Em's bedhead was as bad as his and Olivia snored. Josh cuddled with Nick who wouldn't acknowledge that it even happened or that he woke with a smile on his face.
It was ridiculous as the days had passed but Harry felt guiltier and guiltier as the days went. It had been hard keeping his wizarding world from his muggle world and he had actually slipped up a few times. When Olivia had asked what his least favorite class was, he replied that it was potions. Luckily, Josh laughed it off and asked if he meant chemistry. Harry had quickly and awkwardly covered himself, feeling even more guilty as he did. He didn't hesitate to go on about Snape though, relishing in ranting about him.
After the third day, Harry had become completely comfortable with his new look. He had to admit that the lip ring had been a bit much to him at first but after those three days, he had come to like it. He treasured his tattoo, often gazing at it and feeling somehow closer to his parents. His clothes, something Josh had completely took control over, were a bit awkward to start with. Everything was so...tight. His black jeans were fitted and his band T-shirt fit him so much better than Dudley's hand-me-downs. He kept his battered shoes, not willing to give them up.
They had spent the six days healing from the fight and lazing around. They watched movies and Harry could practically recite The Lion King. They laid around, eating and talking. Nick braided everyone's hair, even managing to get some small braids into Harry's short unruly locks. Em had found koolaid packets and disappeared into the bathroom for nearly an hour, returning with some pink in her black hair. It was like a six day sleepover and Harry had never had so much fun. Returning to Karlbergs had really made all of them feel dreadful.
For Harry, so much had changed on Monday. He had woken up and gotten ready in the dull uniform, like usual. Mr. Peters had stopped by after his shower, giving him twelve minutes to brush his hair and teeth. The day had started out just like normal and had proceeded to until the last council session of the day.
Ms. Heather and her four kids had merged with Gibbs and the misfits. It wasn't a rare thing to mix groups and have a wider variety.
If course, that had meant that they had to deal with Butch and three of his friends and Ms. Heather. Harry had inwardly cursed, already seeing the session going horrible. He kicked himself and his gut-feelings that came true as the session spiralled down. It started out with Josh and Butch glaring at each other and Ms. Heather making snide comments that caused Gibbs to snort and make comments too. Of course, it escalated.
"Emily, tell me what is the indecency of having a tattoo on display for everyone to see?" Ms. Heather asked. Em had said nothing, simply stared blankly at her.
"She asked you a direct question, little girl. Answer it." Gibbs snapped. Em switched her blank stare to him, still not saying anything.
"Hey! Answer me. Or, do you have your own tramp stamp that you're ashamed of?" Ms. Heather sneered. Em still said nothing. Harry felt his hackles rise as Ms. Heather stood up from her seat.
"I have a tramp stamp. Wanna see?" Olivia asked coyly, flashing a saucy smile. However, Harry could see the worry in her eyes as the flickered over to Em and back. Harry knew what she was doing but it was no use. Ms. Heather was fixated on Em.
"Do you think you are so superior that you don't have to participate? Let me tell you something. This, all of it, pertains to you as well. So, I will ask you again. What is the indecency of having a tattoo on display for everyone to see, Emily?"
Em said nothing.
Ms. Heather slapped her.
The smack echoed and Em's head jerked to the side, nearly sending her out of her seat. Harry felt his jaw nearly come unhinged as he stared. His skin tingled as goosebumps rose on his skin. Could she even do that? Gibbs didn't look shocked or even concerned, opting to simply nod in approval at Ms. Heather's actions. Harry sat back in his seat, mystified, and stared at the reddening mark on Em's cheek.
Harry glanced at Nick who cringed but didn't look overly surprised. And, it hit Harry that this really was a regular occurrence. Of course, Harry had been told and he had gotten the feeling that these adults truly did abuse the disorderlies but this was the first time he saw it so severe firsthand. He was stunned, frozen in shock. Still, he was worried about Em and wanted nothing more than to leap up and yell on her behalf. But, he had learned that it was no good.
"Participation is a major importance at Karlbergs. I think that you will have to be made an example of. Stand up." Ms. Heather said. Em stood.
"Butch, go to my office and grab me the paddle. Don't dwaddle." Ms. Heather ordered. Butch hesitated, his eyes flicking between Em and Ms. Heather.
"Go now." Ms. Heather barked, her eyes narrowing. Butch gulped and Harry was surprised even further. It was rare for an adult to be so hard on Butch, seeing as he was one of the favorites.
Butch walked out, throwing one last look at Em that she ignored. Em stared straight ahead, her eyes unfocused. Harry fidgeted in his seat, the word 'paddle' bouncing around his head. He looked over to Nick, Josh, and Olivia for reassurance. His blood ran cold when they each refused to meet his eyes. After a few minutes, Butch returned with the "paddle", if it could even be called that. It was more of a cane. Ms. Heather reached out and snatched it from Butch, turning it over in her hands.
"Everyone! EVERYONE! MAY I HAVE YOUR ATTENTION, PLEASE? Wonderful. Now, I would like you all to take watch what happens when you refuse to participate at Karlbergs. Miss Evanson, come here and stand straight up. Pull up your shirt to your midriff. Now, I will strike you until you either answer or pass out, your pick."
The whole room had fallen silent, everyone seeming to hold their breath. Em had moved until he was facing the group, her back to Ms. Heather. She had lifted her shirt to reveal a smooth tan stomach. Her eyes were still misty and she seemed to be working on autopilot. Ms. Heather's words resounded heavily with Harry, the idea that an adult would hit someone until they passed out getting to him. Ms. Heather raised the cane-paddle and brought it down quickly, the sound whooshing through the air.
THWACK!
The cane-paddle connecting against Em's skin had Harry grimacing. Em didn't even flinch but the echo was sickening. Harry swallowed, his heart twisting. How could someone do this? How could-
THWACK!
Ms. Heather brought it down again. Gibbs looked gleeful, watching with an eagerness that made Harry want to gag. And again, Ms. Heather hit Em. She wasn't holding back, swinging heavily and quickly. It was obvious that much force was being used when Em sprang forward minutely each time. Again and again, Ms. Heather rained down blows.
THWACK!
THWACK!
THWACK!
On the seventh hit, Em winced. Her body leaned forward and her face twisted. Harry glanced away, needing to breathe again. His chest was painfully tight and he flinched at each echoing hit. His mind was numb, the shock taking over. He looked around, wanting to see everyone's reaction. The other misfits were trembling with their heads bowed, unable to watch as well. Most disorderlies looked disgusted but some just look bored. It was Butch, however, that surprised Harry the most with his reaction.
The boy looked sickened. His eyes were wide and he was pale, his full attention on Em. Every time that echo sounded, he flinched violently. His whole body shook and he looked ready to leap to his feet and run or maybe even stop Ms. Heather. In truth, he looked ready to throw up all over the floor around them. Harry didn't understand it but chalked it up to him being guilty at retrieving the cane-paddle.
THWACK!
THWACK!
THWACK!
THWACK!
Ms. Heather didn't let up and didn't look ready to stop anytime soon. Alarm fizzled in Harry and his mind went at a mile a minute. Em's face was in a telling permanent grimace now. She couldn't take much more of this. Quite frankly, she shouldn't have to! It wasn't fair and Harry couldn't fathom it. It wasn't right, wasn't justified, and-
A whimper gave him pause, making his thoughts come to a screeching halt. His eyes widened and his heart clenched. The whimper had been soft and low and short. But, it was also the first sound Harry had ever heard Em utter. She had her eyes squeezed gently shut and her fists balled up. She clamped her mouth closed, trying to contain her voice.
But, it was no use.
With each hit, she became more vocal. More whimpers fell unbidden past her lips and she gave sharp gasps. It was so utterly wrong. Harry had always wanted Em to talk to him but this- this wasn't right. He should have heard her laughter, not her whimpers. It should have been voluntary, not forced. Some part of his mind knew that he had to stop this but he was frozen in his seat, his muscles not complying to his commands.
"Stop. Please. Stop it!"
Harry didn't realize he was talking until he was on his feet. Apparently, his motor and vocal functions had a mind of their own. Ms. Heather paused, mid-swing, and regarded him shrewdly. No one made to pull him down in his seat, most everyone looked relieved that she had stopped. Even Gibbs.
"What was that, Harry?" Ms. Heather asked politely.
"Just stop. Don't do it anymore. We get your point." He muttered, his voice cracking.
"Do you?"
"Yes."
"Well, she doesn't. She still hasn't given me an answer." Ms. Heather said calmly as if she hadn't just been whipping another human being.
"She doesn't speak! And, that's her right. If she doesn't want to answer, why should she have to?" Harry shouted, anger getting the best of him.
"Well, it seems, Harry, that you don't get it at all. I shall continue until she answers or until she is unable to." Ms. Heather murmured. It was more sinister than if she had hissed at him.
"Maybe she doesn't agree with the question, doesn't deem it worthy of an answer." Harry retorted desperately.
"It doesn't matter. She shall answer the question whether she believes it or not. Until she does, I will continue."
With that, Ms. Heather raised the cane-paddle and struck again. The echo was somehow more horrid after going so long without it. Harry sank back down in his seat, his hand coming up to cover his mouth. He stared at Ms. Heather, wondering what had happened to her. She had transformed into someone who was articulate and rational, even though what she rationalized was insane. He wondered what had happened to the gum popping, slang using, and disinterested woman he had first met.
The song of whimpers and gasps started back up as the blows continued to connect. Harry felt his skin itch and felt the need to jump back up. He was jittery, constantly shifting and twitching. He wanted to get up, grab Em, and run her somewhere safe. More than that, Harry wanted the pain to stop. Tears were streaming down Em's face and she was panting. Harry tried to keep himself together but it was so hard.
"Stop... Okay, stop..."
The words were broken, uneven. They were soft and slow, a tragedy if Harry had ever recognized one. Em's face crumbled as tears poured and Ms. Heather stopped. Ms. Heather stepped away, looking at her expectantly. She kept her grip on the cane-paddle but it was loose. Em coughed and cleared her throat, straightening her posture. She winced as she did.
"The indecency...of displaying a...tattoo for everyone to see...is...that it is...is not taking consider- consideration of...others." Em said, her voice hoarse and stuttered from disuse.
"Perfect! Aren't you a doll? Was that so hard?" Ms. Heather asked as she beamed. Suddenly, she was back to her careless self.
"N-no." Em stuttered.
"Great. Okay, everyone can continue on. Remember, participate everyone!"
And just like that, the session continued on. Em sat back down, carefully straight and with her back away from the chair. Gibbs started talking again and asking questions as did the other adults. And, Harry was in a daze. He was unable to fathom what just happened. Em had spoke, her voice soft and catching. Harry had heard her but that wasn't what fazed him.
It was the complex act of what Ms. Heather had just done that shoved him into shock. He stared straight ahead, his eyes glazed. How could everyone go on like it didn't even happen, Em included? How could this be such a normal thing that everyone just kept on going, refusing to acknowledge what they'd witnessed. Was it cowardly or was it survival? Harry didn't know. All he was absolutely sure of was that everything that he had just witnessed and everything about Karlbergs could be described as wrong and unjust.
After that, Harry couldn't help but be somber. He was sad to see that it wasn't the last time it happened. The next person that it happened to was some random disorderly that he had never spoken to. He was punished in front of everyone and Harry had watched, wide eyed, as a different adult paddled him. And, it was over something ridiculous, too. Apparently, the boy had snuck in a snack and had been caught with it.
Next, Nick got punished. It was different that a paddling. He had been forced to hold his arms straight out for the whole counseling session. Gibbs had called it endurance exercising for being so weak. By the end of the session, Nick's whole body was trembling and he was whining at the strain. Gibbs hadn't helped by constantly commenting on how much heavier his arms must have been feeling.
The first time Harry was seriously punished, he was paddled. It had been during review when he had fallen asleep. He had woken up in the middle of the night by a nightmare, his scar flaming and images of a snake slithering on tile dancing across his mind. The teacher, Keith, had made a complaint and asked Mr. Peters to handle it. Mr. Peters did.
Harry had been paddled in front of the whole class. Five blows that hurt worse than Harry had even imagined was issued to him. Though, he was stubborn and he had been able to withstand the torturing curse. He hadn't cried but he had cursed twice which only earned him two more hits, making it an actual roundabout of seven strikes. Despite the demeaning experience, he felt as if he had gathered some sort of strength from it.
It had become clear to Harry that the place was the epitome of evil. The adults were horrible and had no morals. The disorderlies just accepted it and didn't even fight it, as if they thought they deserved it. Harry was right. This was just what his uncle and aunt would have wanted for him. He knew that they would feel as if it was worth what they paid. What they didn't know was that Harry had gained a family as well as unnecessary punishments.
On Thursday night, Harry hadn't been able to sleep that well. The next day was Friday which meant that they would be free for a weekend. He kept tossing and turning in his bed as the night continued to slip by. Eventually, he gave up and stared up at the ceiling. His thoughts started straying and he was left thinking about Sirius, Remus, Ron, Mrs. Weasley, Hermione, Ginny, and Dumbledore. It wasn't uncommon for his mind to drift back to them.
He was just reminiscing on how he, Ron, and Hermione had polyjuiced themselves and broke into Slytherin, infiltrating the common room and talking to Draco Malfoy. He was jolted out of his foggy thoughts of how soft Draco's hair had become from his gelled style in second year by a quiet creaking. Harry blinked and sat up, turning to stare at his door. It was closed but he could still hear. The creaking went abruptly silent and Harry frowned, slipping out of bed. Vaguely, he thought the distraction was a blessing in disguise. He shouldn't ever be thinking about Draco's hair.
He padded over to his door and slowly opened the door. It swung open quietly, absent of any noise thankfully. Cautiously, he peered out the door, looking right towards the other dorms. There was no one so he looked left. He caught just a glimpse of a small figure ducking around the corner that led to the short hallway that led towards the cafeteria. His interest was immediately piqued and he just couldn't resist.
He stepped out into the hallway, his bare feet not making a sound. Swiftly, he edged down the hallway to follow the figure. The figure that had clearly not wanted to be seen. Harry felt a sense of nostalgia that reminded him of Hogwarts as he snuck down the dark hallway. He drew closer and closer, all his senses straining. He nearly walked around the corner when a small whisper sounded. He came to halt and listened.
"You came this time." A voice that Harry would recognize anywhere spoke quietly. It was Butch. Why was he out so late and who was he talking to?
"I almost didn't."
Harry froze. No. It couldn't be. He had heard that voice only once before. The only difference was that the last time, the voice had been broken and in a stutter. What was Em doing out so late and with Butch at that? Harry inched closer to hear better. The softness of Em's voice stayed the same. His curiosity ate at him.
"I know you're angry and I'm-"
"Sorry? Yeah, you always are. I can't keep doing this. I won't." Em cut him off, her voice going sharp.
"This isn't how- Look, I am sorry. Seeing Ms. Heather paddle you nearly made me sick. I just, I was so worried. Is your back healing?" Butch asked with a sigh. Harry's mouth dropped open. Butch worried? What the...?
"Yeah, it's fine. I just- Don't. Touch. Me!" Em started before her voice broke off and hitched.
"Okay, I'm sorry." Butch muttered.
"Yes, I know." Em snapped.
"What do you want from me? What do you want me to say?" Butch asked and Harry heard a hint of desperation in his voice.
"I want... I want you to stop. Just stop and leave me alone, okay?"
There was silence and Harry bit his lip. He was torn between making himself known and saving Em away from Butch or continuing to listen. He was confused as to why Em even met up with him at all. And, why was she willingly talking to him in the way she wouldn't with her friends? There was many questions he wanted answered so he opted for silence.
"You know I can't do that." Butch said and Harry tensed. He might've jumped into the rescue if it wasn't for the croak in Butch's voice. Something held him still.
"I think you should start trying." Em retorted flatly. Harry felt his eyebrows climb. She was being almost...harsh in a way.
"I won't." Butch said stubbornly.
"Why not?" Em asked, sounding frustrated.
"Because, I love you and you love me." Butch whispered, his voice lowering. Harry's head spun as he tried to make sense of that. Before he could even fully process that, Em was replying.
"I don't want to. You're not good for me. I deserve-"
"I'm sorry, okay!? I know that I've said it so many times before. I know that I've begged and pleaded and kept fucking up. I know that you deserve better and I don't deserve you at all but dammit, I'm selfish. I want you, I want to make this work, I love you. What do you want from me? Want to stop sneaking around? Fine. Want me to leave your friends alone? Deal. Want me to let my friends go? Okay. Want me to leave you alone? No dice and never going to happen. Just- Please..."
Harry slumped against the wall, his eyebrows trying to get acquainted with his hairline. His eyes were wide and peering into the darkness. His mind whirred with this news. How had they gotten together? How had they ever moved from rivals to...to this? How? Harry couldn't understand but at the same time... Well, he'd never heard Butch sound so sincere. He chewed his lip and waited, wondering what to do.
"Damn you, Eugene. You can't keep doing this. You hurt me and then expect me to keep letting you come back. I am sick of it and I won't do it again. I'm- We're done." Em said and her voice wavered only once. Eugene? Harry listened harder.
"You don't get to do this! We've been through too much and-"
"That you've put us through!" Em hissed.
"I didn't mean to." Butch replied hotly.
"I don't care. I'm hurt and I won't go through that again. So, take this as your warning. Just leave me alone, yeah?"
"No, I will not. I love you. Doesn't that mean anything? Don't you care? Or, were you lying when you said-"
"Don't! Don't you dare try and guilt trip me. Of course, I love you. I may always love you. It means everything and that's why- Just, I can't... Eugene, I- Mmmph!"
Harry wasn't an idiot. He knew what snogging sounded like. He also knew what protesting sounded like. Em seemed to be doing only one. For all her earlier refusals, she was sure moaning like she didn't mind his lips sucking hers. Harry cringed at his inner thoughts, wanting to slap himself. It sounded so wrong and suddenly, he wanted to flee the scene. He was about to go when the whimpers increased but the sound of gasps stopped him.
"That, I am not sorry for." Butch said gruffly.
"I hate you so much." Em panted.
"I love you too." Butch replied softly, his voice going to a fond notch that Harry hadn't ever heard him use before.
"You're so bad for me." Em groaned pathetically.
"Says who? Your group of misfits? What do they know?" Butch asked, clearly offended.
"They say and so do I. They also know what makes me happy." Em murmured.
"Then, how don't they know about me?" Butch challenged.
"Because, you cause me misery." Em breathed out, her voice thick.
"I don't make you happy?" Butch asked in concern.
"Sometimes. When it's good, it's great. You can make me the happiest or the saddest. You don't know what you do to me."
"I won't apologize for meaning something to you. I'll leave your friends alone from now on, okay?"
"Eugene..."
"Please? Just one more chance? Anything you want. Anything for you. I won't- I can't lose you."
"I love you, Eugene, but I don't think this is going to work out. I told you that I won't do this again. I am so sorry but I meant what I said. We're done."
Harry nearly chewed a hole in his lip. He heard the finality in her voice, knew that she was being completely serious. She meant it. Harry heard brisk footsteps and plastered himself as close to the wall as he could. It didn't matter because Em came barreling around the corner, nearly running, with her head bowed and her shoulders shaking. She didn't even look up as she hurried by.
He knew she had been crying and he felt sorrow fill him up for her. He didn't really approve of her choice in partner but it hurt to see her so torn up about it. And, she wasn't the only one crying, it seemed. Harry tensed when he heard a small sob come from around the corner. That one sob broke free and allowed for even more to fall out. And, Harry stood frozen as he listened to Butch cry heart wrenching sobs.
After a moment, Harry awkwardly walked back to his room. He sank down in his bed, a headache taken home in the forefront of his mind. It was surreal to think about Em and Butch being together. He had seen them scowl at each other, seen Em flick him the finger, seen Butch push Em out of her seat. It was... It was all a lie. So much made sense now.
Suddenly, Em's little smile about punching Butch on the first day Harry met her made sense. Butch backing off whenever Em stepped up became clear to Harry. Em mockingly flipping him the finger, something like mirth in her eyes instead of loathing, made sense. Butch nearly physically vomiting when Em was being punished wasn't due to being the one to deliver the paddle. Harry couldn't believe that he had seen it all before. But, why would he?
Em and Butch played rivals. They seemed to hate each other or ignore each other. Em never seemed angry when the other misfits fussed about Butch and always seemed righteously indignant when Butch did something ridiculous. But clearly, everything wasn't as it seemed. It shocked Harry. It was the equivalent of him and Draco suddenly springing up a relationship.
It would never happen. It couldn't. Right? Not that Harry would but that was the exact point. He and Draco had always been rivals, always been fighting. They constantly bickered, constantly tried to oneup each other. Harry had always been able to get under Draco's skin and vise versa. They had always been aware of each other, all the time. It wouldn't and didn't mean anything. It would never go any further. It wasn't like they would suddenly start snogging...
Harry cut himself off from that thought and worked extra hard at falling asleep. He tried to think about Cho and her beautiful hair but ended up thinking about Draco's instead, wondering if it was soft. Harry groaned and punched his pillow, annoyed with himself. He was clearly letting this Em and Butch situation get to him. And, he dreamed of silky blond hair, pink lips, and grey eyes that night.
Friday morning, he woke up feeling cranky. He groaned and sat up, rubbing his hands over his face. For a moment, he just stared at the nook that was his shower, no thoughts in his head at all. Sluggishly, he got ready for the day. Mr. Peters was late and Harry only had seven minutes to brush his teeth and hair. However, Mr. Peters did bring his outfit that Josh had given him. Harry quickly changed, tugging at his black band T-shirt. Mr. Peters sneered as a goodbye and swept out of the room, leaving Harry to exit whenever.
"Harry, look at you. Don't you look sexy? My, who gave you those clothes!? Oh, right. Me!" Josh chirped proudly as he appeared at Harry's side as soon as Harry closed the door behind him.
"Git." Harry replied simply, lightly shoving him. Josh snorted and stumbled into a random disorderly who growled and shoved Josh back.
"Hey, relax." Harry said with a disgruntled huff. He pulled the affronted Josh away, already inwardly complaining about how his morning was starting. They headed over to Ms. Heather, Olivia coming to join them after they took a few steps.
"Good morning, lovelies." Olivia greeted happily. Her perkiness made Harry want to sigh and rub his temples in frustration.
"Morning, darling. I like your hair. Going natural today?" Josh asked amicably.
"Mhm."
Harry tuned them out as they jumped into the benefits of going all natural every once and awhile. He walked slightly ahead of them, looking for where Ms. Heather was handing out their things. As they drew closer, Harry saw Nick standing near her, clearly waiting for the others. Harry couldn't spot Em anywhere. Harry brushed that aside, not daring to think about the surreal night before, and went to get his things.
"I better not be seeing anymore ink or needles on you, boy. This one is bad as it is." Ms. Heather told him sternly, smacking gum and making a squelching sound. Harry took his folder from her and quickly moved away, having to physically bite his tongue to not make a snide remark.
"Where's Em this morning?" Nick asked him. Harry shrugged.
"I don't know but I got her folder for her." Olivia announced, looking around.
"She'll be here soon. Maybe she's trying to contain that nest she calls hair. No offense Harry." Josh joked.
"And, why would I be offended?" Harry asked grumpily.
"Twins, remember?" Josh teased lightly.
"Not..." Harry mumbled, a yawn halting the rest of his words. Josh and Olivia snickered while Nick peered around, looking for Em.
"There she is!" Nick burst out, pointing behind them.
Harry turned and looked, blinking in surprise. Em was slowly making her way through the crowd, her whole body sagging. She looked so...depressed? Solemn for sure. Harry's mind jumped back to last night and his eyes sought out Butch. When he found him, he saw Butch watching Em. He also noted that Butch wasn't surrounded by any of his friends today. They all waited as Em eventually reached them.
"Hey Em." Josh murmured, sensing her mood.
"Hey." She whispered.
Harry blinked, sharing a look with the others. Olivia looked delighted and Josh grinned. Only Nick didn't look surprised. He looked like he had always known that Em would speak voluntarily one day. Harry was reeling. What had changed? What made Em talk? Did it have to do with Butch or was it completely unrelated? She looked up, a sadness flickering in her eyes, and gave a very tiny smile that didn't fool Harry.
"Talking to us again?" Olivia asked.
"Yeah, I suppose. My vow of silence has evaporated." Em answered.
"This is the first time you've ever chosen for me to hear you speak." Harry said, blinking owlishly at her.
"You have to understand, Harry, that I sometimes go through these random spells of silence. It can last a long time or be short. I'm just strange that way."
"How long did this last one go for?"
"About two years." Em replied.
"Wow. Not talking for two years? I'd... I would most likely go mad." Harry mused.
"It's enlightening, actually." Em said.
"I'm sure. I'll take your word for it."
"So, this weekend will be fun." Josh declared excitedly.
"Got something planned already?" Harry asked, not minding the light change in topic.
"Please, I've always got something planned. I'm Josh."
"True enough." Harry agreed with a short laugh.
"But... It's a surprise." Josh sand, smiling and winking.
"It's always a surprise." Harry grumbled.
"Tradition, really."
They all headed to the bus, greeting Merta teasingly and ducking her mock threatening swipes. Harry allowed himself to laugh but was actually polite to her. She looked at him in approval when he smiled weakly, seemingly apologetic for the others taunts. Merta perked up, beaming, when Em greeted her with sound but seemed to tap down on the urge to make a big deal about it. Everyone seemed to enjoy that her silence was over, especially Olivia who was chattering away excitedly to Em and demanding she sit with her.
Josh hastily grabbed the seat next to Nick, scooting in closer than necessary. Harry tried hard not to think all the desire he'd witnessed between the two. He sunk down in his seat in front of the others, falling silent. The bus took off and Harry gazed out the window with their inane chatter as his background noise.
As the bus continued its route, Harry tilted his head back to look in the front mirror that reflected the seats. He paused in interest when he saw a figure hopping from seat to seat, closer and closer to them. Harry leaned forward, squinting, and gave a surprised jolt when he saw that it was Butch. Harry bit his lip, knowing what Butch's intentions were. He hopped closer, only two seats off from Olivia and Em's. Before thinking, Harry whirled around in his seat.
"Olivia!" He blurted out. She paused and cut herself off from talking to Em. Harry saw that Josh had ducked down in his seat, his head lowered towards Nick's and that they were whispering.
"Yes?" Olivia asked.
"Come sit with me for a little bit. I want to talk to you." Harry said urgently, his eyes cutting over to Butch.
"Oh, sure. I'll be right back Em." Olivia chirped.
Harry turned and scooted over, allowing Olivia to plop down beside him. She lowered herself right beside him, their sides and thighs touching. Harry noted that she was warm and that her hair smelled crisp and clean. He was sure that he could bury his face in that red hair and inhale for years. He'd probably smother but he'd die happy, he just knew it. Shaking those thoughts away, he scrambled to make something up to appease Olivia and keep her in his seat. And, just slightly in the mirror, Harry saw Butch reach his final destination to the seat with Em.
"Harry?" Olivia asked in amusement.
"Er, yeah. So, I had a dream." He blurted out, wincing as he did.
"What sort of dream?"
"About...about a boy." Harry admitted, lowering his voice so that Olivia had to lean in close.
"Did you? Do tell."
"He's, well... We hate each other."
"You sound unsure."
"Okay, fine, I think we hate each other. Rather, I am sure that he hates me. It's my own hatred I am questioning." Harry said slowly with a grimace. He was regretting his chosen topic. Why had he even went with this? Maybe it had to do with the fact that every now and again, Harry would find himself thinking of it.
"Let me guess, you think he is an arsewhole but at the same time you want to snog him senseless."
"I- What!? No!" Harry denied.
"Nothing to be ashamed of, Harry. Happens to the best of us. Many of us always are attracted to the ones that rile us up so much. Bennet and I used to have fantastic shags." Olivia said wisely.
"Okay, ew. Please never talk about that again. I'd rather not know. Anyway, no it's not like that at all. It was just, well, I had a stray thought... It lingered..."
"Care to elaborate?" Olivia asked. Harry clenched his jaw and glanced in the mirror again. He couldn't see anything but Butch's shoe and that was only because he was looking for it so intensely.
"I was just thinking that he had, you know, soft hair...and- Okay, I know it sounds bad but, really, it's not like that. I've known this bloke since we were eleven. He's like Dawson with how pompous he is and like Butch with how much he taunts me. We've always been enemies, always...but..."
"Sounds like a terrible bloke. Seems like you two have a lot of history. Sounds pretty compatible to me." Olivia said easily with a shrug.
"No! What?" Harry sputtered. Olivia giggled.
"Harry, relax. Our bodies often betray our minds. Sometimes, we can be attracted to someone we believe we shouldn't. We could want someone we believe we never could. We could love someone we hate. It happens. Bennett and I- We were just... It was maddening and brilliant all at once. Sometimes, something like that is worth everything. But, most times, something like that can never last. Fireworks eventually go out at some point."
Harry stared at Olivia, swallowing thickly. How did they always manage to put what he felt into words? How did they always know what he needed to hear? Sometimes, the things that came out of their mouths would be so deep that it left him in awe, astonished that they could even think in such depth. Olivia gave him a small smile and Harry sighed, trying to beat his mind in submission. It really wasn't like that with Malfoy. Harry didn't even think of boys like that. No, scratch that, he didn't think of anyone like that.
"It's just me going mad in my own head. I don't even like boys or anyone really."
"Don't doubt yourself, Harry, or try to brush it off. If you're having these thoughts, you might want to start doing some serious soul searching. Don't bury yourself, who you are, simply because you are wary to acknowledge it." Olivia said firmly. Harry paled.
"No, it's not like that. I like girls, really. As I've said, I've kissed a girl and-"
"Did you even enjoy it?"
"No but she was crying over an ex boyfriend so..."
"Crying or not, if you were straight, you should've felt something from the contact." Olivia said sincerely.
"Olivia, I really don't think-"
Harry never got to finish what he was saying because Olivia cut him off. Or more accurately, her lips cut him off. He didn't get any warning as Olivia surged forward and grabbed the sides of his neck under his ears and kissed him. Harry made a sound of surprise but Olivia had one goal in mind. She kissed him thoroughly, as if trying to prove a point that he wasn't getting.
He got it, alright.
As far as second kisses go, this one was nice. Her clean hair brushed his collarbone and the scent invaded his nostrils. Her fingers stroked his neck softly and her chests was pressed right up against his. Her lips were so soft and determined over his. Her body was so soft and curvy. Altogether, she was so soft and warm and gentle.
And, Harry felt absolutely nothing.
Her tongue sweeping over his bottom lip didn't give him a thrill and her hands threading in his hair and yanking him closer didn't make his stomach swoop. Her soft body against his made him unreasonably uncomfortable. Only her lips, as dominating as she worked them and as hard as she kissed, kept him distracted. Somehow though, her kiss wasn't...right. She was just too soft, too feminine. With a start, he yanked away, feeling completely unruffled.
"Bloody hell, I'm not straight." Harry hissed, his wide panicked eyes locking onto Olivia's blinking ones.
"Shame. You're a brilliant kisser, Harry." Olivia huffed, reaching out to run a finger over his lips approvingly.
"You're not so bad yourself. I actually enjoyed that." Harry admitted. And, he had. She was skilled, he'd give her that. It just didn't get him properly excited.
"Not enough to do it again." Olivia noted. Harry winced.
"Yeah, no offense, because you nearly turned me straight, but I just- I didn't feel it. I'm sorry."
"No need to apologize. You want who you want. Don't feel guilty. You'd be a decent shag but we'd never have a real thing." Olivia laughed genuinely.
"Right. I just, I don't know..." Harry mumbled.
"You want a boy." Olivia said as if it was the simplest thing in the world. And to her, maybe it was.
"I don't think so. Josh is...attractive but I don't want to throw him down and snog him." Harry whispered.
"Good because that would crush Nick. Harry, it's okay. Maybe you just want one specific person. Maybe it doesn't matter the gender or looks. Maybe you just have to feel those sparks. That's okay. It's how I am." Olivia informed him with a soft smile.
"Yeah? Did you- I mean, not be pushy or anything but did you ever, you know, feel them?" Harry asked.
"With Bennett, somewhat. It might've grown with time but... I'll never know. Otherwise, no I haven't."
"Em and you didn't...?"
"Merely sexual reasons only, Harry." Olivia laughed and Harry blushed, not daring to entertain the thought of the two girls.
"So, you have sexual encounters with people you don't feel anything with?" Harry asked in confusion.
"Not everyone is as innocent and oblivious as you. Simple as this, the kiss we just shared was nice. The sex between us would be even nicer. We wouldn't fall in love and it wouldn't mean anything like that. We'd be closer, yes, but that would be it."
"You'd have s-sex with me?" Harry stuttered, his mouth dropping open.
"Oh god no. You are far too innocent for me to be the one to deflower you. Plus, seeing as you are already so confused as it is, I wouldn't add to that. Some people just don't understand that you can be gay and still have sex with women. Some people don't understand that you can enjoy both sex with women and men, maybe one more that the other."
"It's so confusing." Harry murmured, sighing as a headache formed. Olivia grabbed his hand, interlinking their fingers loosely.
"Not really. Think of it like this. If you want someone, no matter the race or gender, then go for it and accept that. Love who you love. If you were born in the wrong body, such as you decided you should've been a woman, then change to your real gender and accept it. If you don't ever want to have sex at all, only wanting an emotional connection, then embrace that. If you feel like you want to look like a girl one day and a boy the next, ask for my mascara. It's simple, Harry. Be who you are and those who mind, don't matter, while those who matter, won't mind."
Harry stared down at their joined hands, his mind racing. Was it truly that simple? Was it as simple as him simply pining after whoever he pleased? Was it as simple as him doing what he wanted with his body because it was his? Was it as simple as brushing off those who didn't accept him and realizing who did were his true friends and family? It sounded simple, wonderful really. He wondered why no one else ever thought like Olivia did.
The fact was, he knew that with the misfits, it really didn't matter. He could announce that he was a drag queen who enjoyed to hula dance and they wouldn't bat an eyelash, simply encourage him and support him. But, what about Ron? What about Sirius and Remus? What about Hermione? Or, Mrs. Weasley? Or, the twins? What about them? Would they love him unconditionally, no matter what?
"I don't know what I want." Harry whispered.
"And, that's okay, too. Just don't try and shove what you truly feel away and hide it. Accept it and be happy, no matter who you are, who you want to be, or who you love to get that way."
"Are there really people born in their wrong bodies?" Harry whispered. Quite frankly, the idea sounded frightening. He couldn't imagine waking up every morning and realizing that, once again, he had woken up to the wrong body parts.
"You don't know about Transgenders?" Olivia asked in shock. Harry shrugged sheepishly.
"Sorry, no."
"It happens sometimes. People are born in their wrong bodies and transition over to their correct gender."
"I've never heard about it, honestly."
"I hate to break it to you, Harry, but you are quite oblivious sometimes. Think about the people you've known all your life. Take the knowledge that you've learned from us misfits and apply it. Really try for it. You'd be stunned at what you'll reveal."
Harry stared at her skeptically and she poked him insistently. He rolled his eyes and let his mind drift, thinking back over everything he had become privy to since joining the misfits. And, he was utterly stunned, as she had warned, at what he did uncover. Thinking about it now, he hadn't ever really seen Dean and Seamus without one another. Sometimes, they even slept together. In fact, thinking about Sirius and Remus, even in his own head, he'd always paired them together. They had a way with each other...
With a jolt, Harry came to multiple realizations at once, so quick that he went dizzy. Ginny always dressing like a bloke and making hinting comments about how blokes we're the better gender. Charlie never bringing home a girl but mentioning the blokes that he stayed with on the dragon reserve. Percy avoiding all physical connections like the plague. Luna's eyes lingering on Hermione or Ginny just a bit too long. Sirius letting Remus braid his hair and wearing softer and older robes, making the excuse that it was all his closet provided was older wizarding robes. Remus eyeing both Sirius and Tonks appraisingly.
"Bugger." He said flatly, his eyes wide as saucers.
"Of course, you can't be absolutely sure unless they confirmed it. It doesn't do good to suspect but some people do. I do so I can help people and give support. But, you can't be sure."
"Right. It's mad." Harry croaked.
"It's all around us. So many just hide it." Olivia said with a smile.
"I don't...get it. Why-"
"It's in our nature to be different. But, at the same time, we are humans that are capable of feeling limitless love. We're just born this way. Some people, as you may know, are simply born straight. They just like the opposite sex and that's okay." Olivia said easily.
Harry thought about Ron and Hermione, how clearly they fancied each other. It was obvious and Harry didn't doubt that they would pine after each other for a long time. Mrs. and Mr. Weasley were still in love, as old as it was. Bill and Fleur were, as fresh as it was. Harry squeezed Olivia's hands in thanks. He had only scrambled for a topic and hadn't expected it to turn so educational. It was what he needed and he'd learned things that put his mind at ease.
"You are wonderful." Harry told her seriously.
"So are you. Feel better?"
"So much."
"Glad I could help."
"Glad I asked."