In Front of the family
The sun was shining brightly over the tranquil Weasley estate, and everyone had gathered for a nice picnic in the garden. The air was filled with laughter, happy chatter and the tantalizing smell of grilled food. Percy Weasley, now in his twenties and working as a dedicated employee in the Ministry of Magic, was immersed in an animated conversation with his mother Molly.
But behind the façade of family happiness, things were seething deep inside Percy. Lately, oh who was he trying to fool, he had actually felt uncomfortable all his life in relation to his family, but especially at family gatherings. The constant comparisons with his brothers and the high expectations that were constantly placed on him weighed heavily on him. What was so wrong with not always being labeled as one of the Weasleys but as an independent person, which he had succeeded well thanks to his responsible and hard-working nature. Except, of course, in his family, where he always seemed to be the outsider.
Just as he pushed his thoughts aside to return to the merry goings-on, he noticed a familiar figure approaching the garden: Raphael "Rafi" had been his best friend and secret crush since he had left Hogwarts. Raphael had quickly conquered his heart with his open and friendly manner.
"Hey Percy," Rafi called with a big grin and waved at me. Percy felt his heart skip a beat. He was about to smile back, but his gaze fell back on his brothers, who were guaranteed to be getting ready for a joke. First and foremost the twins, who always had a plan ready to bully him.
"Oh look, Percy actually has a boyfriend!" Fred exclaimed, laughing. And George joined in: "I thought he was married to his books!"
The others joined in the laughter and Percy felt the blush rise to his face. But before he could react, Rafi took a step forward and stood protectively in front of him. "Stop it!" he said in a firm voice. "Percy is not only a bookworm, he is so much more but above all he is my friend, and I don't find your jokes funny."
The family was surprised by Raphael's sudden intervention. Percy felt flattered on the one hand, embarrassed on the other. He had never really thought about how Rafi would support him in this situation.
"Come on, we're just kidding!" said George, but there was a hint of respect in his voice. Alex was not deterred.
"It's not funny when you constantly belittle someone. Percy has achieved a lot and you should be proud of him!"
Percy was stunned. He had never thought that anyone would stand up for him like that, not even his parents did. This simple gesture of protection gave him the courage to be himself, even in front of his family. A warm feeling flowed through him, and it filled himself closer than ever to Rafi.
"Thank you," Percy murmured and looked Raphael in the eyes. "That really means a lot to me."
Rafi smiled and put an arm around his shoulder. "Don't worry, Percy. I'm here to protect you, no matter what."
At that moment, Percy knew he wasn't alone. With Rafi by his side, he was ready to face his fears and the constant criticism of his family. Maybe it was time to finally be himself – the ambitious Percy, who should also have a vulnerable side.
And as the sun set over the garden, Percy felt stronger and more secure than ever, ready to see the world, his family, and himself in a new light.