Wednesday September 24 [19w 2d]
The month goes by quickly and somewhat normally. I involve myself in my studies, spend time with Lena and Draco, and try to ignore Keelan. I've told Lena that I feel I should tell Keelan that I'm pregnant but she wholeheartedly disagrees. "It's not that I think you'll go back to him, even if he did tell you that he wants you back. I just don't want him knowing something that could potentially hurt you."
"He's going to find out anyway. If I hadn't been as far along when he broke up with me I could say it's someone else's, but the dates match up. I do not need people thinking I'm a cheater, even if it isn't true."
"I know, Bell, I know. I don't think he deserves to know." I sigh.
"I don't either, but really, what choice do I have? Another couple months and I won't be able to hide it anymore." The bump is still pretty petite but I can definitely tell it's getting bigger. I haven't felt any movements yet either. I'm not worried, because everything I've read says this is completely normal. Expected, even.
"Any ideas for names yet?" I lean back on my bed frame and stretch. Which is getting harder the bigger my belly gets.
"Not really. I kind of like Elizabeth but I don't like Lizzie."
"Are you going to find out the sex?"
"I actually go with Pomfrey to St Mungo's on Sunday. Want to come?"
"Like you need to ask. Is Draco coming?" I shrug.
"I don't know, I haven't asked."
"You should."
"Why?"
"Just do it."
+++
"Miss Leed, at which point does a Wiggenweld potion turn purple?" A few hands go up, despite the question being directed at me.
"After you add flobberworm mucus."
"The first or the second time?"
"The first time."
"Excellent. Mr Plunkhouse, what colour does it turn after the second flobberworm mucus is added?" Jeremy gets a panicked look on his face and we can all tell he doesn't know.
"Bell." Draco whispers beside me.
"What?" He pokes my elbow so I look at him.
"You going to Hogsmeade on Sunday?" I shake my head.
"No, I'm going to St Mungo's. Now shush." I look back at the professor.
"Why? Are you okay?" I nod. "Then why?" Irritated, I write on a scrap piece of paper.
Check up with P. Meeting doc. U/S. Coming?
I slide it over to him and take a couple notes while he looks it over.
Rather be there than be square.
I roll my eyes and grin. "Something amusing, Miss Leed?"
"No, sorry professor." I kick Draco under the bench and he just smirks. I catch myself thinking that it would be nice to see an actual smile on his face.
"Okay class. I would like a 5 page essay on the benefits to the Wiggenweld potion, due next week. Have a great day." I collect my books and stuff them in my bag. Before I can pick it up however, Draco takes it from me and slings it onto his shoulder.
"What are you doing?"
"Carrying your books. What does it look like?" I raise an eyebrow.
"It looks like you think I'm an invalid. I can do things for myself, you know." He ushers me along the corridor, in the direction of dinner.
"Yes, yes, blah blah blah. Shut up and accept my offer to do something nice or I may never offer again." I smile then realize I forgot a book.
"Shoot, I forgot something. Go on, I'll catch up." I walk back to the classroom as Draco walks on to the Great Hall. I grab my book then hurry myself up the corridor.
"Get out of my way, Richards." I stop as I hear Draco's voice around the corner.
"No. I want to know why you're spending so much time with Bell."
"That's none of your damn business."
"See, I think it is my business."
"Not anymore." I hear a low growl from Keelan. What is going on?
"Is she shagging you now, too? I hear she's been fucking McCauly and Quinta." I feel my face get hot. It isn't true, of course, but I can't believe there are rumours about me. "How's it feel to get my sloppy seconds?" I can only imagine the restraint it's taking Draco now to throw a spell at Keelan. Before I get the chance to intercede, Snape stalks up the corridor behind me and rounds the corner.
"Why are you all standing here? Out of my sight before I start taking points." I slide down the wall to the floor and rest my forehead on my knees. Are there seriously rumours like that going around? I'm suddenly not hungry, but have to go to the Great Hall anyway because Draco still has my books. I don't know if I can walk in there. "If I may, don't put stock into what others say behind your back. They're behind you for a reason." Surprised, I look up at Snape. I never knew he could be so thoughtful.
"Thank you." He nods.
"No loitering, Miss Leed. Move along."
12 November 2015
09 November 2015
SEHE; Chapter 5
Monday September 01 [16w 0d]
I don't see much of Keelan during the feast or after dinner. I come to the realization that he's avoiding me and wonder what the hell is going on. I finally corner him shortly before I'd planned to go to bed. He looks angry at the mere sight of me. "What's going on?"
"What are you talking about?" I raise an eyebrow and gesture to him.
"You've been avoiding me all day, Keelan. I finally have to force you to talk to me and you're mad. I'll ask again - what is going on?" He rolls his eyes then looks around the common room.
"If you absolutely need to know, fine. But not here. Let's go for a walk." I cross my arms, ready to stand my ground, but think better of it. Defeated, I consent to a walk. We don't get far from the common room before he suddenly stops and turns to face me. "I wanted to do this differently but since you're making me talk to you, I guess this is how it's going to happen." I feel my heart sink to my toes. "We're done." It takes a second for me to process this.
"What?" He sighs in annoyance.
"Do I need to speak slower? We are done."
"Why?" He throws up his arms and I shrink back a little.
"I'm done with this conversation. If you don't know why then you're a bloody blind idiot. Are you done asking me inane questions or can I go now?" Without waiting for an answer he stalks off. I just stare after him, kind of stunned. What?
Not feeling like I'll be able to sleep now, I amble around the castle for a while instead. While on my travels I catch a pair of third year Slytherins out after hours. I escort them to their common room, much to their displeasure. As we're walking down the corridor to their common room, Draco appears and stands in front of us. "What's this? Students out of bed?"
"I've already taken 10 points, Draco. Was just bringing them back. Go on now, you two. And stay in your common room, all right?" Once they're gone Draco gives me a lopsided smirk.
"Couldn't resist taking points on the first day, eh?" Without warning the night suddenly catches up with me and I sink to my knees, my arms around myself. "Oh, hey, I was kidding."
"No, it isn't that. It's been a hard evening. I was taking a walk to clear my head. It obviously didn't work." I scooch back and sit against the wall. Draco sits beside me.
"So what's wrong?" I lean my head on his shoulder.
"Can I ask you something first? And I want absolute honesty, no matter the answer."
"Sure." I take a deep breath.
"Is Keelan cheating on me?" I feel him stiffen a little. His silence also answers for him. I sigh. "He was the person I had to talk to. He was avoiding me and when I finally got him to talk to me, he broke up with me. I didn't even get to tell him."
"Tell him what?" I pause. It seems wrong to tell Draco before Keelan, but what choice do I have now?
"I'm pregnant, Draco." I jerk back in surprise when Draco stands up, pacing the corridor, gesturing as he yells.
"That dirty maggot! How could he be so bloody stupid?"
"He doesn't know, remember?" He dismisses me with a wave of his hand.
"Irrelevant, Bell. He's a right tosser." I rest my forehead on my knees and let a few tears escape. Draco squats down in front of me. "I'm sorry. Look, he's a riddled idiot and if you need me, I'm here to support you. Merlin knows you've helped me more than I can properly thank you for." I look up at him and give him a little smile.
"Walk me back to the tower?" He stands up and extends his hand to me. I accept it and he pulls me to my feet, then into a hug. "Have you gotten taller?" I feel him chuckle.
"Shut it, Muggle." I let another smile escape before a huge yawn lets itself out. "Okay, bed for you. Come on." Draco leads me back to the tower. Before I answer the riddle, I turn to him.
"Thank you." He gives me a puzzled look.
"For what?" I shrug.
"For everything. See you tomorrow?"
"Yep. Goodnight, Annabel. Oh and by the way, happy birthday."
+++
Saturday September 06 [16w 5d]
The first week goes by rather quickly. I spend most of my free time with Lena, who is outraged that Keelan is so stupid. She offers to hex him but I decline. I'd rather just try to forget about him and move on. It proves to be hard when we have about half of the same classes, and not considering we're in the same house. As the days go by he's spending more and more of his time with Penelope Lasks.
"He's unbelievable. I seriously don't know how he can stand himself." I look up from my study notes for Magical Theory to Lena with a surprised look on my face. Until now we'd been studying quietly in the common room. She's looking across the room and I don't have to look to know who she's glaring at.
"Stop, okay?" I look back to my notes but have forgotten what I was going to write. I sigh, close my book, and lean back in the couch. Studying seems to be a pointless endeavor.
"Annabel." I turn at my name to see a fourth year coming into the common room. "Draco Malfoy is loitering outside. Can you make him go away? He's scaring a group of first years." I sigh and get up.
"I'll see you later, Lena. Try not to get into trouble." She just grins at me. I exit the common room to see Draco looking menacingly at a group of kids down the corridor. "Draco! Leave the poor kids alone. Go on, guys." I let them in and then glare playfully at Draco. He just shrugs and smirks. "What are you doing up here? Besides bullying people smaller than you."
"Have you been to Promfrey yet?" I shake my head.
"No, not yet. My schedule is so full that I haven't had the time."
"Well you're in luck, I'm in the business of escorting you to the hospital wing." I laugh as he links arms with me and pulls me to the nearest staircase. "How are you doing? Haven't seen you much." I cock an eyebrow.
"Since when does that matter?"
"It doesn't. Just stating an observation, is all."
"Uh huh. I'm doing fine. Just going to classes, the usual." We walk in silence the rest of the way. I get the feeling Draco has some things to say to me, but I don't push him. Experience tells me that only ends badly. He opens the door to the hospital and lets me in before him. I look around the wing, thanking Merlin that it's empty. Madame Pomfrey bustles out of her office and stops when she sees us.
"What can I do for you, dears?" I glance nervously at Draco.
"I uh.. I'm pregnant." Her eyes dart quickly to Draco before landing back on me. I hide a smile.
"Have a seat on the bed, here." I hop on one of the beds and Draco sits at the foot. "Have you had any prenatal care up until now?"
"Yeah, I saw a doctor at home. Everything is fine."
"How far along are you?" I take a mental count of the weeks.
"Just about 17 weeks."
"And how are you feeling?"
"Fine, actually. Little nausea but no throwing up. Pretty tired but otherwise just fine." Madame Pomfrey nods to herself.
"I'll just do a quick examination. Mr Malfoy, if you could step outside of the curtain." A curtain suddenly springs up around the bed. "Miss Leed, please remove your robes. You can keep your regular clothes on, just pull your shirt up, then lie back on the bed." I do as I'm told and Madame Promfrey prods my stomach, muttering to herself.
"How am I doing doc?"
"Good fundal height. You're measuring about a week ahead but that's nothing to worry about. Let me just check your blood pressure." She takes my wrist and is quiet while she concentrates. "Excellent. You seem to be in great health. I'll just have you pee in this cup-" She conjures a small cup and hands it to me. "-and then bring it back to me." I pull my shirt down, adjust my robes, and get off the bed. Draco is sitting on the next bed.
After I'm done peeing in the cup I bring it to Madame Pomfrey. She mutters a few incantations I don't recognize and the pee turns three different colours. "Wonderful. No proteins, sugars are low, and pH is balanced nicely. Did you have any other questions or concerns?"
"I don't think so. When should I come back?"
"I will talk with the headmaster about trips to St Mungo's. I'm knowledgeable but a prenatal doctor would certainly be better for you. Do any of your professors know?" I reluctantly shake my head.
"It's only the first week and I feel fine, so I didn't want to tell anyone yet. I'm fine with Professor Dumbledore knowing, though." She nods.
"Would you prefer to speak with him yourself?"
"No, if you need to talk with him anyway then you can, if you wouldn't mind."
"That's perfectly fine. Come back tomorrow and I'll let you know what day we go."
"Great. Thank you, Madame Pomfrey."
"You're welcome, dear." I leave the hospital wing with Draco following me.
"I was going to the library, if you'd like to tag along." Draco shakes his head.
"Thanks for the offer, but I'm going to pass this time. See you later?" He gives my arm a small squeeze then saunters off down the corridor. I head for the library, intent to get some studying done.
I don't see much of Keelan during the feast or after dinner. I come to the realization that he's avoiding me and wonder what the hell is going on. I finally corner him shortly before I'd planned to go to bed. He looks angry at the mere sight of me. "What's going on?"
"What are you talking about?" I raise an eyebrow and gesture to him.
"You've been avoiding me all day, Keelan. I finally have to force you to talk to me and you're mad. I'll ask again - what is going on?" He rolls his eyes then looks around the common room.
"If you absolutely need to know, fine. But not here. Let's go for a walk." I cross my arms, ready to stand my ground, but think better of it. Defeated, I consent to a walk. We don't get far from the common room before he suddenly stops and turns to face me. "I wanted to do this differently but since you're making me talk to you, I guess this is how it's going to happen." I feel my heart sink to my toes. "We're done." It takes a second for me to process this.
"What?" He sighs in annoyance.
"Do I need to speak slower? We are done."
"Why?" He throws up his arms and I shrink back a little.
"I'm done with this conversation. If you don't know why then you're a bloody blind idiot. Are you done asking me inane questions or can I go now?" Without waiting for an answer he stalks off. I just stare after him, kind of stunned. What?
Not feeling like I'll be able to sleep now, I amble around the castle for a while instead. While on my travels I catch a pair of third year Slytherins out after hours. I escort them to their common room, much to their displeasure. As we're walking down the corridor to their common room, Draco appears and stands in front of us. "What's this? Students out of bed?"
"I've already taken 10 points, Draco. Was just bringing them back. Go on now, you two. And stay in your common room, all right?" Once they're gone Draco gives me a lopsided smirk.
"Couldn't resist taking points on the first day, eh?" Without warning the night suddenly catches up with me and I sink to my knees, my arms around myself. "Oh, hey, I was kidding."
"No, it isn't that. It's been a hard evening. I was taking a walk to clear my head. It obviously didn't work." I scooch back and sit against the wall. Draco sits beside me.
"So what's wrong?" I lean my head on his shoulder.
"Can I ask you something first? And I want absolute honesty, no matter the answer."
"Sure." I take a deep breath.
"Is Keelan cheating on me?" I feel him stiffen a little. His silence also answers for him. I sigh. "He was the person I had to talk to. He was avoiding me and when I finally got him to talk to me, he broke up with me. I didn't even get to tell him."
"Tell him what?" I pause. It seems wrong to tell Draco before Keelan, but what choice do I have now?
"I'm pregnant, Draco." I jerk back in surprise when Draco stands up, pacing the corridor, gesturing as he yells.
"That dirty maggot! How could he be so bloody stupid?"
"He doesn't know, remember?" He dismisses me with a wave of his hand.
"Irrelevant, Bell. He's a right tosser." I rest my forehead on my knees and let a few tears escape. Draco squats down in front of me. "I'm sorry. Look, he's a riddled idiot and if you need me, I'm here to support you. Merlin knows you've helped me more than I can properly thank you for." I look up at him and give him a little smile.
"Walk me back to the tower?" He stands up and extends his hand to me. I accept it and he pulls me to my feet, then into a hug. "Have you gotten taller?" I feel him chuckle.
"Shut it, Muggle." I let another smile escape before a huge yawn lets itself out. "Okay, bed for you. Come on." Draco leads me back to the tower. Before I answer the riddle, I turn to him.
"Thank you." He gives me a puzzled look.
"For what?" I shrug.
"For everything. See you tomorrow?"
"Yep. Goodnight, Annabel. Oh and by the way, happy birthday."
+++
Saturday September 06 [16w 5d]
The first week goes by rather quickly. I spend most of my free time with Lena, who is outraged that Keelan is so stupid. She offers to hex him but I decline. I'd rather just try to forget about him and move on. It proves to be hard when we have about half of the same classes, and not considering we're in the same house. As the days go by he's spending more and more of his time with Penelope Lasks.
"He's unbelievable. I seriously don't know how he can stand himself." I look up from my study notes for Magical Theory to Lena with a surprised look on my face. Until now we'd been studying quietly in the common room. She's looking across the room and I don't have to look to know who she's glaring at.
"Stop, okay?" I look back to my notes but have forgotten what I was going to write. I sigh, close my book, and lean back in the couch. Studying seems to be a pointless endeavor.
"Annabel." I turn at my name to see a fourth year coming into the common room. "Draco Malfoy is loitering outside. Can you make him go away? He's scaring a group of first years." I sigh and get up.
"I'll see you later, Lena. Try not to get into trouble." She just grins at me. I exit the common room to see Draco looking menacingly at a group of kids down the corridor. "Draco! Leave the poor kids alone. Go on, guys." I let them in and then glare playfully at Draco. He just shrugs and smirks. "What are you doing up here? Besides bullying people smaller than you."
"Have you been to Promfrey yet?" I shake my head.
"No, not yet. My schedule is so full that I haven't had the time."
"Well you're in luck, I'm in the business of escorting you to the hospital wing." I laugh as he links arms with me and pulls me to the nearest staircase. "How are you doing? Haven't seen you much." I cock an eyebrow.
"Since when does that matter?"
"It doesn't. Just stating an observation, is all."
"Uh huh. I'm doing fine. Just going to classes, the usual." We walk in silence the rest of the way. I get the feeling Draco has some things to say to me, but I don't push him. Experience tells me that only ends badly. He opens the door to the hospital and lets me in before him. I look around the wing, thanking Merlin that it's empty. Madame Pomfrey bustles out of her office and stops when she sees us.
"What can I do for you, dears?" I glance nervously at Draco.
"I uh.. I'm pregnant." Her eyes dart quickly to Draco before landing back on me. I hide a smile.
"Have a seat on the bed, here." I hop on one of the beds and Draco sits at the foot. "Have you had any prenatal care up until now?"
"Yeah, I saw a doctor at home. Everything is fine."
"How far along are you?" I take a mental count of the weeks.
"Just about 17 weeks."
"And how are you feeling?"
"Fine, actually. Little nausea but no throwing up. Pretty tired but otherwise just fine." Madame Pomfrey nods to herself.
"I'll just do a quick examination. Mr Malfoy, if you could step outside of the curtain." A curtain suddenly springs up around the bed. "Miss Leed, please remove your robes. You can keep your regular clothes on, just pull your shirt up, then lie back on the bed." I do as I'm told and Madame Promfrey prods my stomach, muttering to herself.
"How am I doing doc?"
"Good fundal height. You're measuring about a week ahead but that's nothing to worry about. Let me just check your blood pressure." She takes my wrist and is quiet while she concentrates. "Excellent. You seem to be in great health. I'll just have you pee in this cup-" She conjures a small cup and hands it to me. "-and then bring it back to me." I pull my shirt down, adjust my robes, and get off the bed. Draco is sitting on the next bed.
After I'm done peeing in the cup I bring it to Madame Pomfrey. She mutters a few incantations I don't recognize and the pee turns three different colours. "Wonderful. No proteins, sugars are low, and pH is balanced nicely. Did you have any other questions or concerns?"
"I don't think so. When should I come back?"
"I will talk with the headmaster about trips to St Mungo's. I'm knowledgeable but a prenatal doctor would certainly be better for you. Do any of your professors know?" I reluctantly shake my head.
"It's only the first week and I feel fine, so I didn't want to tell anyone yet. I'm fine with Professor Dumbledore knowing, though." She nods.
"Would you prefer to speak with him yourself?"
"No, if you need to talk with him anyway then you can, if you wouldn't mind."
"That's perfectly fine. Come back tomorrow and I'll let you know what day we go."
"Great. Thank you, Madame Pomfrey."
"You're welcome, dear." I leave the hospital wing with Draco following me.
"I was going to the library, if you'd like to tag along." Draco shakes his head.
"Thanks for the offer, but I'm going to pass this time. See you later?" He gives my arm a small squeeze then saunters off down the corridor. I head for the library, intent to get some studying done.
08 November 2015
SEHE; Chapter 4
Wednesday August 27 [15w 2d]
The next two weeks move by slowly. I mostly stay at home, save for the select few outings I'm "allowed". Another doctor's appointment and a trip to Diagon Alley. The rest of my brothers know, although Mark and Leon don't really understand it much.
While my mom is at work during the day, I use the opportunity to call Phoebe. Charlie doesn't mind as long as I don't tie up the phone too much. I'd like to see her before I leave, but I don't think my mom will allow it. She's still super pissed.
"Are you sure I can't just sneak over?" I spoon some ice cream into my mouth.
"No, I don't want to risk it. She's mad but she isn't yelling at me and I'd like to keep it that way. I'm going to ask Charlie if he'll talk to her. It would seriously suck to go away without seeing you."
"I totally agree." I frown and look down at my bowl. "You're thinking. Fill me in."
"I just.. I'm scared about Monday. I'm going to see Keelan. I have to tell him. Phoebe - what if he freaks out? I don't know if I can do this without his support." I blink away some sudden tears.
"You listen to me, Annabel. Are you listening?"
"Yeah."
"If he leaves you, he's a right twat. But regardless you have everyone else with you 100%. You have support here and with you at your school. Send me a letter every day if you need to. I am here for you." I watch as tears fall into my bowl of ice cream.
"How am I supposed to leave?"
"The way you do every year, by the train. This year is no different."
"Except that I'm growing a person."
"Oh yeah, that." I smile, which I suspect was her goal.
"I love you Fee-bee."
"Oh, gross, don't." I laugh outright. Just then the clock chimes 2 PM.
"I should go. Mum will be home soon."
"Remember what I said, okay?"
"I will. I'll call you tomorrow."
"Bye, Bellie." I hang up and finish my ice cream before heading up to the bathroom for a shower. As I'm getting undressed, I turn sideways to the mirror to look at my reflection. There's a definite bump there now. I smooth my hands over my belly, wondering how the little being is doing. I heard the heartbeat on Monday and the doctor said it's growing along nicely. She told me that I'm due toward the middle of February. I'm not entirely sure how I'm supposed to finish the year with an infant. I guess I'll just have to see how it goes.
+++
Monday September 01 [16w 0d]
I grip Phoebe tightly. We're at the train station and I'll soon be going through the barrier to Platform 9 3/4. It's almost 11 so I need to board the train soon. Phoebe holds me at arms length and smiles. "I expect a letter no later than tomorrow morning." I laugh and give her another quick hug.
"I've got to go. I'm supposed to be meeting Lena on the train and it's going to leave without me if I don't get my arse in gear." She lets me go.
"Okay, okay, get it in gear then. Have a safe trip."
"I will. Love you!" I grip my trolley and push it toward the barrier, getting up to a jog as I go through. I spot Lena almost instantly by her bright purple hair. "Lena!" She turns toward her name and when she sees me she breaks into a grin.
"Bell!" I walk up to her and we give each other a quick hug. "I've already secured a compartment. Come on, I'll help you with your stuff." We get my trunk and cat, Noodles, onto the train only minutes before it whistles, signalling its departure. "Sure cut it close." I sit and sink into the cushions.
"I know. Bloody terrible morning, let me tell you." Lena lets Noodles out of his carrier and he's off to do whatever it is he does. Lena sits across from me. "How was your summer?"
"Fantastic. Mum and dad surprised us with a trip to Italy. We stayed there for a month."
"Wow, that's fabulous." She nods.
"It was incredible. I'm sorry I didn't write." I wave off her apology.
"Oh, don't be."
"How did your summer go?"
"Well, it was interesting." Her eyebrows go up.
"Oh? Do tell." I am suddenly hesitant. Lena is my best friend at Hogwarts, but she's very conservative. She wears a purity ring and I know her opinions of premarital sex quite well.
"Promise not to freak, please." Her eyebrows knit together. One can always tell Lena's thoughts just by looking at her face.
"Promise. What is it?" Instead of telling her, I take my ultrasound photos out of my bag and hand them to her. She's confused for a second before she understands. Her eyes dart to me quickly before going back to the photos. "This is yours?"
"Yes." She hands the photos back to me.
"Wow. Congratulations, Bell."
"Are you freaking?" She shakes her head quickly.
"No, of course not! My views are for myself. Surely you must know that I'll never judge you, Bell." I smile a little. "If you're happy, then I'm happy."
"I'm not entirely happy, but the shock hasn't quite worn off. I expect that won't ever happen." She looks at me with a thoughtful expression.
"Does Keelan know?"
"No. He was on holidays all summer. I'm really nervous to tell him. I may have gotten to the train last minute because I know he shows up early."
"I saw him, actually. He was with Garrett and Orion." To be expected, as they're his friends. Although something tells me she isn't telling me everything.
"What else?" She looks away from me, so I know I'm onto something.
"He was hugging Penelope. I'm sure it's nothing."
"Penelope Lasks?" Lena nods. "Why is he hugging her?"
"I dunno, Bell. All I know is what I saw."
"No, of course."
"What about Draco?" I raise an eyebrow.
"What about him?" She shrugs.
"You two are friends."
"I wouldn't say we're friends. We study and hang out sometimes."
"Come on, you know what you've done for him." I shake my head.
"What have I done?" I know I'm playing stupid, but I decide to ignore it. Reality is, I consider Draco to be one of my closest friends. Even though he's in Slytherin and I'm a Muggle-born, we seem to connect. He's had some problems the past couple years with his family; his father especially. He's confided in me things that I'm sure he wouldn't tell his other friends. I know Keelan is jealous even though he has no reason to be. Draco is a friend and nothing more.
"If you're not going to admit it, I'm not going to spell it out for you." We lapse into silence for a little while. Lena pulls out a book and I make myself comfortable, hoping to get a nap in.
A while later I wake with a start, sweaty and cold. Lena is gone and I'm alone. I sit up and rub my eyes, trying to figure out what woke me. Before I can really think about it the compartment door opens and in saunters Draco Malfoy himself. "Well, well. Look who's neglecting her Prefect duties."
"Oh, shit, I completely forgot." Draco just gives me a look. I don't blame him. It isn't like me to forget something like this. He sits opposite me as I try to wake myself up. "How was your summer, Draco?" He rolls his eyes so hard it's a wonder they don't get stuck.
"It was bloody fantastic, is what it was. I was sent off to live with relatives in Ireland while my father did his 'business' at home. Like I give a flying shit what he's up to. Or like I don't already know. I wasn't even allowed home before coming to the train. Mother met me at the platform, if you can believe that." I don't say it out loud, but I definitely can. "How was yours?"
"It wasn't quite as fantastic, but it wasn't far off."
"Care to elaborate?" I cross my legs while shaking my head.
"Not yet. I need to talk with someone else first before I can tell you." To his credit, he looks hurt.
"Fine, fine, if you insist. I was actually joking before, by the way. Your rounds don't start for another hour or so." I shake my head again and roll my eyes.
"Got me all worried for nothing." Draco stands.
"See you around, Muggle."
"Later, Pure-snob." Noodles runs into the compartment as Draco opens the door. I hear him mumble something about useless, no good felines before the door shuts again. Noodles jumps onto my lap and nudges his head against my hand. "Hi, boy." No one should ever let an 11 year old name an animal. Poor thing will be stuck with a silly name for the rest of their life.
After giving Noodles some attention, I change into my robes and secure my Prefect badge. I was aiming for Head Girl but Melissa Dilly was awarded the title. Most all Ravenclaws are know-it-alls, but Melissa really outshines us all. I don't think she's gotten less than 100% on anything. Ever.
I'm relieved to see that I can't see my belly through the robes. The bump still isn't very big, but I don't need the added stress of worrying if people can tell. One worry down, only a million more to go.
The next two weeks move by slowly. I mostly stay at home, save for the select few outings I'm "allowed". Another doctor's appointment and a trip to Diagon Alley. The rest of my brothers know, although Mark and Leon don't really understand it much.
While my mom is at work during the day, I use the opportunity to call Phoebe. Charlie doesn't mind as long as I don't tie up the phone too much. I'd like to see her before I leave, but I don't think my mom will allow it. She's still super pissed.
"Are you sure I can't just sneak over?" I spoon some ice cream into my mouth.
"No, I don't want to risk it. She's mad but she isn't yelling at me and I'd like to keep it that way. I'm going to ask Charlie if he'll talk to her. It would seriously suck to go away without seeing you."
"I totally agree." I frown and look down at my bowl. "You're thinking. Fill me in."
"I just.. I'm scared about Monday. I'm going to see Keelan. I have to tell him. Phoebe - what if he freaks out? I don't know if I can do this without his support." I blink away some sudden tears.
"You listen to me, Annabel. Are you listening?"
"Yeah."
"If he leaves you, he's a right twat. But regardless you have everyone else with you 100%. You have support here and with you at your school. Send me a letter every day if you need to. I am here for you." I watch as tears fall into my bowl of ice cream.
"How am I supposed to leave?"
"The way you do every year, by the train. This year is no different."
"Except that I'm growing a person."
"Oh yeah, that." I smile, which I suspect was her goal.
"I love you Fee-bee."
"Oh, gross, don't." I laugh outright. Just then the clock chimes 2 PM.
"I should go. Mum will be home soon."
"Remember what I said, okay?"
"I will. I'll call you tomorrow."
"Bye, Bellie." I hang up and finish my ice cream before heading up to the bathroom for a shower. As I'm getting undressed, I turn sideways to the mirror to look at my reflection. There's a definite bump there now. I smooth my hands over my belly, wondering how the little being is doing. I heard the heartbeat on Monday and the doctor said it's growing along nicely. She told me that I'm due toward the middle of February. I'm not entirely sure how I'm supposed to finish the year with an infant. I guess I'll just have to see how it goes.
+++
Monday September 01 [16w 0d]
I grip Phoebe tightly. We're at the train station and I'll soon be going through the barrier to Platform 9 3/4. It's almost 11 so I need to board the train soon. Phoebe holds me at arms length and smiles. "I expect a letter no later than tomorrow morning." I laugh and give her another quick hug.
"I've got to go. I'm supposed to be meeting Lena on the train and it's going to leave without me if I don't get my arse in gear." She lets me go.
"Okay, okay, get it in gear then. Have a safe trip."
"I will. Love you!" I grip my trolley and push it toward the barrier, getting up to a jog as I go through. I spot Lena almost instantly by her bright purple hair. "Lena!" She turns toward her name and when she sees me she breaks into a grin.
"Bell!" I walk up to her and we give each other a quick hug. "I've already secured a compartment. Come on, I'll help you with your stuff." We get my trunk and cat, Noodles, onto the train only minutes before it whistles, signalling its departure. "Sure cut it close." I sit and sink into the cushions.
"I know. Bloody terrible morning, let me tell you." Lena lets Noodles out of his carrier and he's off to do whatever it is he does. Lena sits across from me. "How was your summer?"
"Fantastic. Mum and dad surprised us with a trip to Italy. We stayed there for a month."
"Wow, that's fabulous." She nods.
"It was incredible. I'm sorry I didn't write." I wave off her apology.
"Oh, don't be."
"How did your summer go?"
"Well, it was interesting." Her eyebrows go up.
"Oh? Do tell." I am suddenly hesitant. Lena is my best friend at Hogwarts, but she's very conservative. She wears a purity ring and I know her opinions of premarital sex quite well.
"Promise not to freak, please." Her eyebrows knit together. One can always tell Lena's thoughts just by looking at her face.
"Promise. What is it?" Instead of telling her, I take my ultrasound photos out of my bag and hand them to her. She's confused for a second before she understands. Her eyes dart to me quickly before going back to the photos. "This is yours?"
"Yes." She hands the photos back to me.
"Wow. Congratulations, Bell."
"Are you freaking?" She shakes her head quickly.
"No, of course not! My views are for myself. Surely you must know that I'll never judge you, Bell." I smile a little. "If you're happy, then I'm happy."
"I'm not entirely happy, but the shock hasn't quite worn off. I expect that won't ever happen." She looks at me with a thoughtful expression.
"Does Keelan know?"
"No. He was on holidays all summer. I'm really nervous to tell him. I may have gotten to the train last minute because I know he shows up early."
"I saw him, actually. He was with Garrett and Orion." To be expected, as they're his friends. Although something tells me she isn't telling me everything.
"What else?" She looks away from me, so I know I'm onto something.
"He was hugging Penelope. I'm sure it's nothing."
"Penelope Lasks?" Lena nods. "Why is he hugging her?"
"I dunno, Bell. All I know is what I saw."
"No, of course."
"What about Draco?" I raise an eyebrow.
"What about him?" She shrugs.
"You two are friends."
"I wouldn't say we're friends. We study and hang out sometimes."
"Come on, you know what you've done for him." I shake my head.
"What have I done?" I know I'm playing stupid, but I decide to ignore it. Reality is, I consider Draco to be one of my closest friends. Even though he's in Slytherin and I'm a Muggle-born, we seem to connect. He's had some problems the past couple years with his family; his father especially. He's confided in me things that I'm sure he wouldn't tell his other friends. I know Keelan is jealous even though he has no reason to be. Draco is a friend and nothing more.
"If you're not going to admit it, I'm not going to spell it out for you." We lapse into silence for a little while. Lena pulls out a book and I make myself comfortable, hoping to get a nap in.
A while later I wake with a start, sweaty and cold. Lena is gone and I'm alone. I sit up and rub my eyes, trying to figure out what woke me. Before I can really think about it the compartment door opens and in saunters Draco Malfoy himself. "Well, well. Look who's neglecting her Prefect duties."
"Oh, shit, I completely forgot." Draco just gives me a look. I don't blame him. It isn't like me to forget something like this. He sits opposite me as I try to wake myself up. "How was your summer, Draco?" He rolls his eyes so hard it's a wonder they don't get stuck.
"It was bloody fantastic, is what it was. I was sent off to live with relatives in Ireland while my father did his 'business' at home. Like I give a flying shit what he's up to. Or like I don't already know. I wasn't even allowed home before coming to the train. Mother met me at the platform, if you can believe that." I don't say it out loud, but I definitely can. "How was yours?"
"It wasn't quite as fantastic, but it wasn't far off."
"Care to elaborate?" I cross my legs while shaking my head.
"Not yet. I need to talk with someone else first before I can tell you." To his credit, he looks hurt.
"Fine, fine, if you insist. I was actually joking before, by the way. Your rounds don't start for another hour or so." I shake my head again and roll my eyes.
"Got me all worried for nothing." Draco stands.
"See you around, Muggle."
"Later, Pure-snob." Noodles runs into the compartment as Draco opens the door. I hear him mumble something about useless, no good felines before the door shuts again. Noodles jumps onto my lap and nudges his head against my hand. "Hi, boy." No one should ever let an 11 year old name an animal. Poor thing will be stuck with a silly name for the rest of their life.
After giving Noodles some attention, I change into my robes and secure my Prefect badge. I was aiming for Head Girl but Melissa Dilly was awarded the title. Most all Ravenclaws are know-it-alls, but Melissa really outshines us all. I don't think she's gotten less than 100% on anything. Ever.
I'm relieved to see that I can't see my belly through the robes. The bump still isn't very big, but I don't need the added stress of worrying if people can tell. One worry down, only a million more to go.
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