Chapter 12
They didn't have to wait long for the tall, imposing figure to enter the room with inhumanly silent steps. There was a tense pause where silence spread thickly throughout the room. The twins eyed the man in unease.
"You alright Char?" George ventured. Charlie sank into a chair and ran his fingers through his messy hair.
It was obvious Charlie was quickly approaching the end of his rope. Nobody outside of his family, and perhaps Dumbledore, knew how powerful Charlie was. If he were to fully apply himself and put forth a truly sincere effort, he would overpower the entire Oder of the Phoenix, with energy to spare. It was only the amazing self-control that permeated his entire life that kept the aura of his power from overflowing and overpowering everyone. Now, that control was slipping for the first time ever. Realizing they were watching their big brother come undone was unnerving to the twins and scarier than a faceoff with Voldemort himself.
"Why were you carrying Hermione?" Charlie asked.
"She's pretty…worn out…too." Fred explained slowly. George could practically see the gears turning in his twin's head. He shot him a questioning look and was answered with a look that promised an explanation later. "Well, lucky for you two, you've got us!" Fred continued cheerfully.
"…huh?" Charlie shot him a bemused look.
"We are going to take care of everything tonight," George explained.
"So you two can try and relax." Fred added.
"Thanks you guys," Charlie said after a moment of silence. He flashed them a warm, hesitant grin.
Within moments the twins had managed to cast enchantments throughout the kitchen so the makings of a roasted chicken dinner and pudding dessert were set and cooking in just a few minutes. Charms were also cast so all of the washing up was done immediately as well.
In just under a half an hour dinner was ready. Quickly the twins conjured a table in the living room and transported everything in so Hermione wouldn't have to get up. Then, feeling silly, Fred levitated Charlie in to the living rooms and deposited him on the couch amid everyone's laughter. They ate cheerfully, the twins effortlessly distracting all thoughts from fatigue, keeping everyone thoroughly amused.
On a hunch, Fred slowly weaved a series of a series of sleeping enchantments over the roommates, purposefully making them stronger on Hermione. He watched in satisfaction as Hermione began to grow drowsy and slump closer to Charlie. As a gentleman, Charlie naturally slid closer to provide support all the while remaining silent, knowing that she wouldn't want to break up the get together by falling asleep. If any of them said anything, she could try and fight the sleep she needed so desperately. As soon as her eyes slid shut, Fred strengthened the enchantments on Charlie. Finally, both fell asleep, much to the relief of the twins. George quickly levitated the remains of their meal to the kitchen to be cleaned. While the dishes were being done, Fred levitated Charlie and Hermione to be laid flat on the couch, bodies intertwined. He also conjured several pillows to be placed beneath them as well as a soft blanket for warmth.
Satisfied with his job, Fred made his way into the kitchen just in time to see George place the last of the dishes away. As soon as he was finished, Fred grabbed a hold of both of his shoulders tightly and apparated them both away.
Short, but had some trouble with this. Having a bit of writer's bloke. Reviews make the pen flow faster. :-)