hidden talents
Alicia collapsed on the grass next to Percy, laughing. She tore her eyes away from those still playing Quidditch in the skies above her, and looked over at Percy warmly. He had given up on the game over half an hour ago and ever since he had landed, she had felt compelled to join him on the ground.
"You're not a bad flyer," she said. She smiled at the memory of him whizzing through the air, throwing the Quaffle in her direction. When he hummed his agreement, she continued, "I guess I shouldn't be surprised. You are a Weasley, after all."
At this, Percy furrowed his brow. "What? You didn't think I could fly?"
"Well, I did," Alicia responded quickly. Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment. "I just…"
"...thought I'd be shit," Percy finished.
"No!" she exclaimed. Then, seeing the smile tugging at the corners of his lip, she batted at his arm playfully and admitted, "Well, yes. But it's not my fault! It's not like you played Quidditch at school."
"No, but I am Weasley." Percy gestured upwards. Bill and Charlie were flying circles around the twins, weaving between them and shouting out taunts. "Summers have always been like this at the Burrow. Trust me, I tried to resist. Once I pretended my broom was broken, and Bill pushed me into the pond."
Alicia couldn't help the laugh that erupted from her mouth. The image of a young and petulant Percy, sodden by pond water and covered in seaweed, was too much for her imagination. Within moments, she was clutching her sides, unable to stop her hysterical laughter. Even when some of the players—she couldn't say which ones—called down to ask what was so funny, she couldn't find the breath to respond.
"It's not that funny," Percy said, nudging her in the side.
The touch only made her laugh harder. And after a moment, he laughed too.