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Chapter Text

Thursday, 15th August 1991

Even in the faint corners of London was still a buzz, a small but invigorating feeling that makes your heart race and your mind wonder. This sense followed the Thomas family all the way to Bloomsbury, London. This district has a warm feeling, tranquil and quiet. Since school was out large groups of kids seemed to be lurking around, gossiping quietly, giggling or playing footy on the grass. With parents at work, all day kids were left to waste their time in the pouring rain. The Thomas household was quiet all day, Pam Thomas working in London's finest and most respected Law firm, Ian Thomas cooking all day in an overheated and understaffed restaurant and the various step-sisters of Dean Thomas staying with their mother over the summer holidays.

On a local green space was a large, assorted group of boys playing a rather relaxed game of football, while the rules might have been relaxed the players certainly weren't. All ran until their legs couldn't hold them, being pushed and kicked down into the dirt by a brutal tackle or even brawling while the game continues. But it all seems to end the same, laughs, handshakes and some more bullying. The boys ranged from 10 to 15 all going to a local school. Some had money, others didn't. For them, it didn't matter as much. When the sun had started to set the boys scored the last few goals and called it a day. Dean took off his wretched football boots and dropped them in a box he had just inside the door. An echo of whispers lead him to his front room, his mother was sitting on the smallest sofa closest to the fireplace. She wore one of her usual dark grey suits with some small heels and her long dreadlocks neatly twisted into a bun. On the larger sofa in the middle sat his father, he was in some worn jeans and his stained chef's jacket. The man's hair was drenched in sweat so it stuck to his pale forehead. Sat a little away from his was a stranger, someone even paler than Ian. His hair was long, charcoal black and shined in the light of the fire. His clothes were odd, dark robes looked as if they dragged behind him like a dress and his hooked nose was the only facial feature to stand out. Dean didn't stare too long, in fact, he hovered in the doorway for only a moment before he turned to leave assuming it wasn't his business.

Soon enough I was sitting on a chair identical to his mother's on the other end of the sofa, still covered in dirt and sweat from the match. Nothing had been explained to him yet so he sat patiently ignoring the stranger's cold stare. "So darling, this man was just about to tell us more about a new educational opportunity for you." The warm smile almost softened this blow, he flattened whatever feeling struck his gut and looked towards the stranger who was looking back at him.
"Hogwarts is not an ordinary school...Hogwarts is a school of witchcraft and wizardry"
After an extensive and awkward silence, Snape followed up with a lengthy explanation of the so-called wizarding world. At one point his father stood and demanded he stop, in which Snape took out his wand and levitated various objects around the room. The fright was enough to silence all of them and for a while, they stayed in silence. But eventually, they had questions, Pam first.
"How is this possible?"
Severus looked between the two adults and understood "A wizard can be born from two mug- non-magical folk or from only one or two. Just like wizards can have non-magical kids"
Ian was the next to pipe up, "Did you say he needed a cauldron?"
To respond to this Snape handed him a letter, including a brief welcome and a list of things they needed earning a confused looked from Ian. Snape picked it up and shrugged coldly.
"On the bottom is an address for Diagon Alley with instructions as to how to access it. There will be a way to convert your money to ours in order to buy everything he needs. As for the platform, you will need to run between the barriers between nine and ten to access it"
Most of the other questions were about classes, ways he could contact home, holidays and safety. All answered quickly and coldly. Dean stayed quiet for all of it, frozen in thoughts. He felt as if he'd been punched in the gut and pushed in water. Confused and scared and a bit nauseous.

It took a couple of hours to get through the conversation and for Severus to make his way to the door. As he walked out he coldly added "Please contact the school via owl with your acceptance and any more questions you may have" Without a second to answer he disappeared in a swirl of darkness. Dean waited in the front room watching the flames on the fire dance. He always felt a bit different but he could never explain it, perhaps this could be it. Maybe this magical world could explain things about himself. These thoughts were interrupted by his mother's loving hand gripping his shoulder fiercely.
"Baby...I know this is...strange but me and your father will be here for you all the way. I think this school is the best place for you to understand...magic. But I think the choice is yours, both your father and I will respect what you chose" He wanted to thank her but nothing came out, he retreated and remained silently nodding. With a small kiss on the forehead, she and Ian went to talk in the kitchen, choosing to whisper behind closed doors. He spent the night imagining a school of witches, things floating everywhere, things on fire, teachers cursing students. His mind wandered until it fell into a deep sleep.

The next few days were interesting, with a lot of small talk and long silences. Dean was happy with the quiet, it let his imagination wander for a while but it also reminded him of his decision. He didn't want to leave his family or friends behind while he went off to be taught by people in ancient dresses. But there was a part of him that wanted to be able to do those things, to be special. This blatant ignoring of the situation lasted until his father sat him down a week later. On his lap sat a very old-looking white box. "What did you wanna show me?" Dean's curiosity was glued to the box as were his eyes. Ian's wide smile did not go unnoticed when he lifted the lid of the box placing it on the ground. Inside slept the most beautiful light ginger kitten, Deans gasp was enough for the creature to wake and show its icy blue eyes.
"What!" Roared Dean refusing to take his eyes off the kitten as it slowly drifted back into a slumber. "why?" he paused to tear his eyes from the kitten to his father.
"well" Started Ian looking down at the box, "I thought you might want some company...in case you do decide to go to that school"
The silence lingered for a moment but it was Dean that broke it.
"Does it have a name?"
Granted it wasn't really what he should've said but the silence cut like a knife.
"Name him whatever you'd like" Ian's soft voice relayed to his son.
Dean grinned widely up at his father scooping his cat into his hands, "I think Rush will enjoy it at Hogwarts"

Saturday, 24th August 1991

No one knew what to expect when they headed off to Diagon Alley. Dean was buzzing on the train, his parents seemed nervous but they smiled through it grasping at each other's hand for support. He felt a bit bad but distracted himself with the flashes of views from the window. Eventually, they reached a very old, rundown-looking pub. Slowly following his parents inside, Dean's gaze bounced around to the pointy hats, wands and owls that perked all over. The bartender was a kind old man who led them to the alley out back and unlocked the entrance explaining how he could also do it.

The bricks flipped and scattered to leave a huge archway leading into a very bright and busy street of the magical side of London. The three of them quickly stepped through thinking it might close and crush them. For a few moments, they stood and watched as various family's explored the stores laughing, gossiping and sometimes shouting. A lot of people wore strange robes, some were made of fine fabrics and had rich embroidery that ran up the seams. Others were in normal, or as they would say muggle, clothing. Eventually, they went, first they changed a few hundred pounds into the strange wizarding money, next was uniform. They found a store and got three sets of black robes, an actual black hat (which wasn't a joke), a pair of protective gloves (dragon something) and a winter cloak. They all thought this was peculiar but no one said anything. A few jokes were made as they warmed up the environment, next they shopped around for various equipment like cauldron, brass scales and a few more. While looking around they stopped outside a broomstick shop, from the window they watched the kids gawp at the latest models as they stood in shock. Moving posters was another surprise that none of them expected.

The last thing, after all the books they'd collected from the bookstore, was a wand. Because of the stuffy state of the room Dean went in by himself. The shop looked incredibly big but only from the outside, as soon as you walked in there was a long desk and the rest of the shop was separated by shelves. Thousands if not hundreds of thousands of wands were scattered unevenly balancing on the shelves. Most habitating mountains of dust and frail cobwebs. Stepping inside slowly Dean, feeling minuscule, stood next to the daunting shelves that stretched right the way up to the ceiling. The young wizard was so distracted by the various aspects of this shop he didn't even notice the man who now stood behind the desk. He had kind eyes, with a hint of crazy. His skin was wrinkled and aged, with white hair that seemed to defy gravity. The man's smile was followed by a short introduction.
"Here for a wand lad?... Either that or my sparkling company" The short silence triggered his introduction. The man held his hand out while announcing "I'm Garrick Ollivander"
Dean took his hand and shook it fairly firmly, "I-I'm Dean, Here for a...a wand?" Obviously, he knew what he wanted, that wasn't the question. The question was how was this so normal? Even just to say it made him feel embarrassed maybe a little shameful.
Clearly, the older man had noticed this, he walked round slowly and smiled down at the boy. "Don't worry, We'll find you a perfect wand" And with that said he was off. Up and down the corridors muttering things to himself and within a minute or two he was back at the desk. Laid in front of the man was a deep blue box that had been coated in a thick layer of dust. When he shimmed the box lid off a small spider crawled out and ran from the pair of wizards. "Try it" Garrick suggested handing the wand to Dean. The puzzled boy took it softly in his hand and moved it in the air, with minimum effort a lamp in the room flew and shattered into the wall. Almost immediately the wand was taken from his grasp and put away. This violent cycle happened a good few times before the wand felt right. And didn't break anything when tested. He paid the man and left just as two young people entered.

Outside was less manic, most people had gotten all they needed and headed home. Something they'd also planned to do. Dean shoved the wand box in his back pocket and took a few bags of his parents to help take them home. After a short walk and a fairly lengthy train ride, they were all back home. All of Dean's school stuff, but a few books, were all stuffed into his trunk. He was sitting on his bed petting his kitten who was cuddled up on his lap, the young wizard was studying the wand. Most of the wand was a block of very dark wood and was circular all the way to the handle, at the top was a clump of lighter wood that seemed to melt down into two spirals about a third of the way down the wand. Studying every part of the wand seemed to distract him from his nerves. In only a few days he would be around 10 hours away from his family in a school full of people who grew up around magic.

Was he ready? no

Chapter Text

The few days between Dean's trip to Diagon Alley and September the first were spent either playing footy with his mates or starting to read a few chapters of his school books. He found them quite interesting but daunting. Pam and Ian spent days telling Dean not to worry, and how he'll make lots of friends, even asked if he would write to them over the school year. Of course, he would...just hadn't figured out how yet. Dean packed the biggest suitcase he could find with all his wizarding books and equipment, along with his kittens' things. A large duffle bag was used for all his school uniform along with some of his normal clothes (Jeans, football shirts, joggers and of course his football boots). In the big suitcase, he somehow managed to add a poster of the 1990 West Ham United team, a tennis ball and also shimmied everything around to add a football. The Saturday night before Dean left for Hogwarts he spent tossing and turning in his bed, scared to death for the next day. It wasn't until his kitten decided to climb on top of Dean to sleep that he settled and eventually drifted. Not for long though.

Sunday, 1st September 1991

London's train station was as always violently busy but Dean didn't seem phased. He guided a big metal trolley down the platforms, on top of it was his suitcase, duffle bag and a large black carrier for Rush. Graciously the young boy, along with his mother and father, found platforms 9 and 10 hesitating at the barriers. Dean ran through with his eyes glued shut. Ian also ran but with his hands out in case, it didn't work. Pam strutted through with not a care in the world, the sound of her heels clicking as she walked seemed to echo on all platforms, magical and muggle alike. With her work suit and her black briefcase, she screamed power. Ian was frozen as he watched her emerge from the wall.

The train was enormous and went on and on without end. People here also seemed different, dressed strangely, and spoke strangely. He didn't stare though, kept his eyes on the back of his father's chest. Eventually, his luggage was boarded on the train and the time to board was closing. His mother broke the painful silence between them.

"We want you to keep in contact, don't we dear"

"Yes, and try your best of course"

"And stay safe! Who knows what the older kids can do" With that she gave her boy a very fierce but kind hug, kissing his forehead. Ian hugged him but this was more sincere and sad. Dean closed his eyes, stopping the floods of tears he anticipated. When pulling away from his father, a sudden force pushed him harshly to the ground. A burning sensation from his hip kept him from standing straight away, he looked up and saw the metal bars of a trolley but the suitcase had fallen to the side. There stood a sandy-haired boy holding the handles, his eyes were a strange mix of chaos and wonder. It took the stranger a moment to realise what he had done "Noooooo I'm so sorry" he spat in a strong Irish accent. "I'm so late and I didn't think the trolley would be so heavy." Dean's eyes didn't tear away from the boy even when his father helped him to his feet, his hip disagreeing violently. It took another minute of jumbled apologies for Dean to interview.

"Stop stop, I'm fine." He smiled warmly and shrugged "No harm done"

"Are you sure?" the boy looked Dean up and down scanning for injuries but instead noticed his muggle clothes.

Dean nodded and was going to confirm but his mother gave his arm a small squeeze while looking at the attacker.

"Both of you should get on the train, Remember to write to us" While she said this Ian was busy taking the trolley down to the luggage department. Dean smiled at his mum sincerely, turning back to the stranger.
"We'd best go in then. Seamus Finnigan" He didn't spare a moment to say goodbye to anyone before starting for the train. Dean followed close behind him.

"Dean Thomas"

The train seemed to be split, with windows on both sides as well as compartments. The middle was a thin walkway, Dean and Seamus walked until they found an empty compartment closest to the Platform. So for a few seconds, he waved at his parents, until they were out of his sight. Seamus sat watching him curiously, "Your parent's muggle then?"

It didn't sound mean but very unfiltered, uncomfortably Dean answered "Yes they are. Are yours? I don't think I saw them"

Seamus clammed up a little bit but his bright smile didn't disappear for long, "Well she had work didn't she. My father couldn't bring me either. Me Mams a witch, Dads a muggle."

Dean's puzzled face didn't go unnoticed, "Muggle?"
Seamus gave a small laugh and nodded "A non-magical person, You'll hear it a lot, very common name"
Dean nodded still a little puzzled, did they need a name? Muggle sounds so strange too. Dean was pulled from his thoughts by Seamus, "Have you heard a lot about Hogwarts?" Dean shook his head, and Seamus's smile only widened.

For the majority of the train ride, Dean asked Seamus questions about Hogwarts but as it turned out Seamus's mother didn't tell him much either so they guessed a lot of it by combining their intelligence and knowledge. At first, it started with small things like how the food appears, Dean thought that hundred of waiters would take them out but Seamus seemed to think that House elves would levitate them in. Then they were talking about the house elves. It was safe to say they chatted all the way there, joking and laughing. They went to change into their robes but thanks to Seamus, Dean was excited, drugged on this elevated sensation. He only hoped he could help Seamus in the way he's helped Dean.

The train made a slow stop, and both the boys jumped up still talking about which mythical creatures were real and which were myths. What the boys thought was a mild earthquake was really a giant man with messy hair yelling for the first years to follow. The pair of young wizards seemed to be close to the front of the line, following the large man down a dark, narrow, steep path that seemed to go on forever. The fear that Dean had once felt was creeping in. He couldn't see past the person in front of him and the only light there was, was the battered lantern the giant had. A faint whisper of a rustle in the woods made Dean jump so hard he started to fall forwards putting the domino theory into practice. His heart fell quicker than he was, not only could he hurt a whole bunch of people but also embarrass himself in front of his entire year.

A harsh grip from his shoulder pulled him back, hesitant to even breathe Dean felt the hand move down to his arm. Before he knew it, he was walking arm in arm down the steps with Seamus Finnigan. The Irish lad kept his eyes facing forwards but Dean couldn't stop looking at Seamus. It didn't take long for Seamus to loudly start up a conversation again which not only allowed people to block out the mysterious noises from the darkness but also for others to talk. Dean felt his heart slow but sink, he had only known Seamus a few hours. Yet this boy had already made all his nerves disappear into excitement and wonder. He wondered to himself whether or not Dean affected Seamus. Or if after this Dean would be remembered as the guy Seamus saved from embarrassment or had his trolley rammed up his backside.

These thoughts were interrupted by flat land, more specifically a long pier that had a number of small wooden boats.

"Four to a boat" The giant's gravely voice echoed down as he climbed into his boat right at the top. Being one of the first people down Dean and Seamus walked down to the boats at the front. Dean hesitated before he stepped on, which was a reason for Seamus to come up behind him and jump on. The boat only rocked for a moment before Seamus held out his hand with a smug smirk on his face, "Do you need assistance M'lady?"

Dean scoffed and lowered one leg shakily. Adding the second almost sent him flying off the other side of the boat if not for his quick thinking in grabbing something. The problem was the only thing to grab was Seamus's arm. Slightly embarrassed Dean quickly sat peering carefully into the dark and gloomy waters. With Hagrid's command, all the boats were pulled through the water gracefully. The water seemed to ripple behind as they sliced through, and the bold moonlight reflected into the water adding only a little bit more light than the stars that hung so effortlessly in the sky.

Beyond the lake was a castle, with towers that stretched towards the sky and what looked like hundreds of floors high. As the fleet pushed closer the magnificence of the school only grew as did its enchanted beauty. The boats were led to an opening of a cave that seemed to lead beneath the school, pulling through a bold green curtain of ivy they entered an underground tunnel. It wasn't long till they had to get out. Which was a lot easier than getting in. From there the boys followed Hagrid up yet another path to the front doors of the school. They were bulky, oak doors that swung open revealing a woman. A professor Dean guessed, a tall stern-faced witch that had jet black hair. After thanking Hagrid she leads the crowd of kids inside the entrance hall. It was about the same size as Dean's house, walls built with ancient stones which should've made an eerie feeling however the only thing he'd felt was welcome. The professor stood with her hands held by her front, her piercing eyes scanning the students, and without another word, she started down the hall. As they moved down the quiet sound of chattering had increased a lot when they huddled outside the door. It sounded like there were hundreds of people. Dean tried not to think of it and turned his attention towards the green women.

The professor was standing in front of yet another door, this one slightly smaller but still unnecessarily tall. "Welcome to Hogwarts" Now Dean was finally paying attention he pinpointed her accent as Scottish. "The start-of-term banquet will begin shortly, but before you take your seats in the great hall, you will be sorted into your houses. The sorting is a very important ceremony because, while you are here, your house will be something like your family within Hogwarts. You will have classes with the rest of your house, sleep in your house dormitory, and spend free time in your house common room" Dean was processing but she paused for only a second before continuing. "The four houses are called Gryffindor, Hufflepuff, Ravenclaw, and Slytherin. Each house has its own noble history and each has produced outstanding witches and wizards. While you are at Hogwarts, Your triumphs will earn your house points, while any rule-breaking will lose house points. At the end of the year, the house with the most points is awarded the House Cup, a great honor. I hope each of you will be a credit to whichever house becomes yours." Her voice almost seemed to soften at the last bit, becoming sincere. It went back to cold and stern not long after. "The sorting Ceremony will take place in a few moments in front of the rest of the school. I suggest you all smarten yourself up as much as you can while you are waiting."

Most of the other kids neatened their robes however Dean turned to Seamus who had a robe a few sizes too large, causing it to hang more to one side as well as leaving his messy hair untouched. The scruffy boy grinned widely at Dean, "What house do you think you'll be placed in?"

Dean shrugged brushing down his robes "Is it not random?" Seamus burst out laughing but was interrupted before he could reply. Pale, medieval-looking people floated through the halls on one side, moving quickly into the great hall sparing only a few words on the first years. Most watching gawking at the ghost, including both Dean and Seamus. When the ghosts disappeared into the walls, McGonagall came back to the students and led them into the great hall. The desperation of some students made Dean get pushed back a bit whereas Seamus strutted right after the professor with no notice to the hall. The hall has four long tables that they followed down, the furthest on the left being Slytherin than Gryffindor, the furthest on the right being Hufflepuff then Ravenclaw. Each table was laid with gold plates and gauntlets, each student looking ready to eat. Most gazes were following the first years, more specifically a brown-haired boy down by the front. When Dean noticed a few people looking at the ceiling he decided to look. It wasn't there instead, it was a perfect picture of the night sky. Dean overheard a girl with wild frizzy hair say it was bewitched.

At the front was a horizontal table that seated the staff, in the middle sat an old man with silvery hair and a beard that looked as if it touched the floor. He also saw snape saw up there, still with his black robes and cold stare. In front of the table was a wooden chair and on top of that an old, dirty hat that looked to be fraying slightly. Dean thought he had imagined that the folds of the hat resembled a face, however, it was confirmed when the hat started to sing about the houses. Dean had to stop himself from laughing. After the song, Professor McGonagall stood next to the chair reading the names of a long piece of parchment. The student would sit on the chair, she would place the hat on their head and they would sit with their sorted house. For some people, it took longer than others, Seamus took a minute but a very blonde snobby looking boy barely had the hat touch his head before he was sorted. Deans' sorting took a few moments and like normal the Gryffindor table erupted into cheers. The young Gryffindor sat down as quickly as he could, smiling at the boy opposite. Seamus smiled back widely.

Once all the names had been called and all first years found their place within their house the head teacher stood. "Welcome" for a moment he waited for the excited students to all silence, he repeated "Welcome to a new year at Hogwarts! Before we begin our banquet, I would like to say a few words. And here they are: Nitwit! Blubber! Oddment! Tweak! Thank you" He sat down as slowly as he stood while the hall echoed the children's laughter and cheer.

Dean tore his eyes from the headteacher to look down at the table which was now filled with various foods. Roast beef, chicken, lamb, with potatoes, veg, gravy, Yorkshire puddings, sausage chips. Seamus and the ginger first year next to him didn't hesitate in getting as much as they could making everyone else laugh.

While enjoying the meal, after Seamus had badgered the ghosts about their death and some more personal questions, the group of first years had now gotten into a conversation about their blood status.

"I'm half and half. Me dads a Muggle. Mam didn't tell him she was a witch 'til after they were married. Bit of a nasty shock for him" They all laughed.

"What about you Neville?" This was asked by the ginger first year, Dean had since found out that he had five older brothers that had been sorted into Gryffindor, two already graduated. The name was Ronald Weasley.

"well I was actually brought up by my nan and she was a witch" Without saying more he dug into his food once more, Neville seemed to be quite a shy person. He was fairly short and a little chubby, even though he was also a little buck-toothed. He'd lost his toad quite a few times already so Dean could only imagine what he'll lose in the future.

Ron turned to Dean and nudged him a little, "And you?"

Dean put down his knife and fork shrugging "Well I've never met my dad but I assume he was normal, same as my mum" Seamus stared curiously whereas the girl with frizzy hair smiled brightly.

"I'm from a muggle family! I was so excited when I found out I was a witch, I've already finished quite a lot of the reading materials already" She spoke on for a while, once she got going there didn't seem to be a polite way of stopping her. Hermione was sweet and certainly ambitious, he was surprised she didn't end up in Ravenclaw or even Slytherin.

The rest of the evening was spent eating, talking and laughing. Dean had found out about Percy, Ron's older brother, who was Head boy this year. As well as Oliver wood, Captian of the local sports team. And of course, they met Fred and George Weasley who tried to convince them that a monstrous beast was living in a hidden chamber at Hogwarts. He was also told more about Harry Potter, the famous boy who had actually survived an unforgivable curse. The only survivor in the world, it gave him a nasty scar too.

Chapter Text

Sunday, 1st September 1991

The banquet went on for hours, the first years started to badger the older students about myths they have heard or in Hermione's case badger them about lessons and homework. It was late when the students cleared out of the hall. The Gryffindor tower was warm, the common room was a circular room slathered in red and gold. It had a large fireplace and an endless supply of armchairs. The first years were led up a spiral staircase to their dorms, the boys going up one and the girls up another.

The dorm had five four-poster beds with thick red velvet curtains for privacy and obviously, there was a bathroom. Their things were already on their beds, Dean's bed had Seamus to his right and Neville on his left. Harry and Ron were on the other side of Neville. Dean put all of his things on the floor to sort another time, thankfully there was a very long window in between Dean and Seamus's bed. Most of the other boys changed into their Pajamas and were already knocked out. In the dim light of his singular lamp, he set up a large cat-climbing tree by the window for his little kitten. He changed out of his robes and sunk into his new bed for the year. For a while he just laid there, he hadn't spent much time away from home before. He missed his parents and his sisters, and he thought of writing them a letter. Explaining how weird things already are. Sharing a room brought comfort at least, from what he could tell Ron was the only person who both snored and talked in his sleep. He could only barely hear Harry and Neville already seemed to be half off the bed.

Seamus was silent, his curtains drawn too. Dean started to wonder if he was even there. Until he heard a sniffle. And then another. And another. Dean's heart sank, he felt guilty as if this was an invasion of privacy. For a moment Dean listened to make sure all the others boys were asleep. He crawled out of his bed, silently stepping across the cold hardwood floors to Seamus's bed.

"Hello" It was barely a whisper.

Nothing.

"You awake?" Slightly louder this time.

He heard another sniffle and a small reply from inside, "yeh"

Dean took this as an invitation, first he just peeked his head through. It was quite dark but the light flooded through the opening. Seamus was curled up facing away from the other boys, his head half in his pillow. Dean climbed in closing the curtain behind him, he sat next to the other boy leaning back on the headboard.

"Have you been away from home before?" Dean spoke quietly, whispering down at Seamus, when the boy shook his head Dean continued. "I haven't either. Well, I went to a few sleepovers but nothing for too long. One thing I won't miss is my sisters, they are so annoying. Luckily they weren't around much during the summer. What about you?"

Seamus slowly sat up, it was too dark to see his red eyes but he sniffled a little and whipped his eyes. "Well...I won't miss having to go to church every Sunday..." his voice was low and slow, quivering too. It was strange for Dean to imagine how this cheery, curious boy could crumble into sadness. Dean didn't know what to do, he shuffled and smiled having thought of an idea.

"You wanna have a sleepover? I have some snacks and cokes left over from the train" Dean hugged his legs, leaning his head on his knees and looking straight into the dark curtains.

Although the light in the bed was limited, Dean could see Seamus's grin. He nodded and nudged Dean's legs with his elbow, "What you waiting for? Grab the food" Dean laughed and crept out of the bed. Being as quiet as he could, he got the food plus drinks as well as a pillow for himself then climbed back into Seamus's bed. He was leaning against the headboard as Dean did before. Dean dumped his pillow by the foot of the bed and sat in front of it dumping the things in the middle.

"So have you done any spells yet" Dean shoved a few sweets in his mouth watching Seamus pick between chocolate mice and bonbons.

"One or two. Didn't end too well. Me mam says I just need to relax." He laughed, "Anyway how did you find out about the wizarding world? Did they write you a different letter?"

"No they sent someone who explained it to me and my parents, actually it was one of the professors in the great hall. Long black hair, black robes, big nose, Servis Snape"

Seamus laughed so hard Dean heard the loud knock his head made on the headboard, he even snorted. Dean reached over and covered his mouth quickly. A difficult job considering how energetic he was. Perhaps all this sugar was unwise. It took a few minutes before Seamus had laughed as much as he could and nodded for Dean to remove his hand.

"Severus Snape, you mean?" Seamus's smile stretched across his face, "My cousin told me all about him, miserable git. Must've been a lovely conversation." Dean laughed and shrugged "I think his coldness helped if I'm honest" A small yawn escaped him as he finished the remainder of his drink. Seamus looked at him with pity before collecting all the sweets and dumping them on the side.

"Gotta have a good sleep for all the exploring we'll do tomorrow" With that said Seamus lowered himself and curled up once again. Dean propped himself up on his elbows and watched Seamus settle into a deep sleep. Eventually doing the same.

Monday, 2nd September 1991

The morning was a lot lighter, dimmed slightly by the drawn curtains but still. Seamus had remained in a ball hugging himself whereas Dean woke him with a leg and an arm off the bed. As he dragged himself up, the noises of the other boys crept in. Harry was unpacking as chipper as ever, and Ron was still snoring and would probably continue for a while, as for Neville, who knows?

Trying not to disturb his friend's slumber Dean slipped out of his bed with only his pillow. Harry was indeed unpacking the few things he had and Neville was sitting in the middle of his bed in a daydream it seemed. Dean threw the pillow on his bed and sat at the end facing them. "Good morning"

Harry's face went to Dean's bed, to Seamus's then back to Dean raising his eyebrow curiously, Dean laughed and shrugged "I couldn't sleep so we had a midnight feast of our own. Must've fallen asleep at some point" Harry laughed a little while Neville crawled to the foot of his bed with his pillow hugged tightly.

"You got any more sweets?" Neville's voice was small and unsure, Dean returned his nervous look with a friendly smile.

"Should do" He collected the loose sweets from the nightstand next to Seamus's bed and then dumped them on the end of his bed with his sat behind it. "Got a few drumstick lollies....chocolate coins and fizzy strawberries" Harry quickly went over and grabbed a handful but when Neville walked over he just looked at them with a puzzled face before taking a cola bottle and taking a small bite. His face lit up and he grabbed a few more and retreated to his own bed.

It took him a minute or two to catch the confusion from both Harry and Dean, "Oh well...I've never had muggle candy before, wizard candy is a lot different"

With that mystery solved they chilled in the bedroom for a little longer, quietly before Ron's snoring woke him up and Seamus slowly resurfaced. By the time everyone had showered and dressed it was about 7:30 and they made their way down to the Great Hall once more. Between the talking portraits and moving staircases, going to the Great Hall seemed like an adventure itself.

Breakfast was quiet, or well most people were quiet. Hermione took this chance to talk about what we should expect in our first lessons while Seamus badgers were with all sorts of questions. Dean and Seamus didn't speak much but Dean spent a lot of this time listening to the others. The food was just as excellent as the banquet, appeared the same and ranged from toast to croissants. Dean had a huge bowl of cereal as well as a croissant with jam and a piece of toast. Seamus had about twice that and Ron, well Ron didn't even stop to breathe at times.

They had two days, class free to explore the castle, navigate their way around and probably unpack. Dean thought it best to unpack first so he, Seamus and Neville headed back to the dorms after breakfast. The walk back was slow but they had learned the way a little more. The Gryffindor common room looked a lot more lively in the daylight, the fire was dead and the long windows were wide open. The noise was everywhere, friends catching up, people getting summer work finished, Dean even overheard people whispering about Harry.

When they got to their room, Neville pilled on his bed again hugging his pillow while Seamus dragged his suitcase on his bed. Dean headed to his own bed and smiled down at Rush, picking him up. The kitten had grown a considerable amount since the day he was given to Dean. He was a little wary of the others so kept to his cat tower by the window mostly. Dean kissed the ginger creature on the head and put him on the top of his tower. Unpacking was boring but he did get the chance to hang up a collage of football posters and magazine photos. The team photos and a few candid photos of the players, even a drawing he did of his favourite player Clive Allen.

Dean had almost finished when Neville finally started to unpack. Seamus jammed everything in his dresser draws, keeping only a few things out. Eventually, Dean sat on the window sill in between his bed and Seamus's, Watching the world outside. Considering how many students he had seen in the Great Hall, he was shocked to find so many were missing the chance of a walk across the courtyard. Seamus tapped Dean's leg so he could sit on the end of the window sile, his back was pressed against the window and his legs were stretched across the floor. It took him a while to pull his gaze to Dean. He seemed a lot more hesitant of himself than he was yesterday and his smile a lot more sincere.

"Thank you...for all the sweets of course. Must've been a great sacrifice for you" The eye contact only held for a few seconds before Seamus started to look around the room to distract himself.

"I'm sure I'll survive the great sacrifice"

Seamus moved to go help Neville search for a book he lost. Dean didn't mind the abandonment. He hopped out of his seat and grabbed a pen and some paper. The letter was to his parents, explaining what had happened, the school, the lake, the hat, the houses, and even talking a little about his new friends. It didn't take long to write, Dean felt he was running on pure excitement. As soon as it was folded into an envelope Dean jumped up from his bed heading out.

"Where you off too?" Neville lifted his head from under his bed and looked to Seamus as if he had some answers but Seamus was staring at Dean too.

"Well, I was gonna find a postbox" He lazily lifted the letter with a small smile. Both of his friends got up laughing. "Whats...funny"

"You have to send it by owl. We'll show you don't worry, I wanted to look around anyways" Seamus practically dragged Neville out.

Getting to the owlery was a long and chaotic journey, they asked about four older students where to go as well as two professors. The owlery was right at the top of the west tower, the walk was painfully long but the view from the top was absolutely breathtaking. The room itself was quite cold and fairly drafty, probably through the lack of windows. The perches went all the way up. The owls were free to fly in and out, some owls belonged to students and some from the school. Neville went to a very cute, brown and white burrowing owl with really creepy yellow eyes. Seamus walked to something that almost looked like a window, big enough for a person but without a window. Cautiously Dean followed him up, Seamus seemed so relaxed when with a tiny push he would surely fall to his death. His feet were peering over the edge, it made Dean nervous just at the sight. He knew it too, he had that stupid grin.

Neville came over eventually with his owl perched on his arm. He stood further away than Dean did which made Seamus laugh.

"O-okay well just give him the letter and he'll get it to your parents" Neville stuttered trying to look anywhere but outside.

Dean gave him a questionable look then looked at Seamus who gave him a cheeky grin. "How would he know where to go?"

Neville shrugged "I don't know how they do it. Just trust us okay? I'm sure he'll get a reply in the next few days"

Dean looked at the bird sceptically before the letter tore out of his hands and was held for the bird to grab and fly. Neville and Dean both looked at Seamus who looked about ready to jump and fly after the bird. When the noticed the pair of eyes burning the back of his skull he slowly turned and shrugged "Didn't wanna be stuck here all day, smells like bird shit" he laughed and started for the stairs "Come on let's explore" For a moment Neville and Dean shared a look. The kinda look when a crazy neighbour does some weird shit and your sorta left to rethink your life. The shock turned into laughter and they chased Seamus down the stairs. Dean caught up pretty fast and all the way down the steps they pushed and shoved, there were also a few headlocks that Seamus fell victim to. Neville just laughed and pushed them down so they could eventually reach the bottom of the stairs.

After a quick lunch break they spent the rest of the day running around the building, they tried to count the painting but they stopped at 127 and they had a rather unpleasant introduction with Peeves. A very annoying ghost. For someone so old he acted too childish. Seamus loved him, Neville not so much, Dean couldn't stop laughing at them long enough to form an opinion. Dinner was similar to the feast just with different food. Lamb, mash, roast potatoes, Yorkshire puddings, gravy and a lot more sauces and sides. The energy was still, you know, magical. Everyone was still cheery and excited to be back or to just be there.

Dean waited with Rush until everyone was asleep before he did. Just in case anyone needed a shoulder or an ear. Sadly all Dean got was a story from a sleeping Ron about his brothers riding a fire-breathing unicorn.

Tuesday, 3rd September 1991

The day was just as bright as the one before. The bright sun irritated him until he just got up. It was 6 in the morning. He was so used to his pattern back at home that it was almost comforting. If he wasn't tired and hungry it would be. Gently he moved his cat to the side so he could move. His curtains weren't closed, he never closes them. Privacy was lovely but he didn't like the isolation of it. To him, it seemed so violent, plus he was just sleeping. The worst you'll catch him doing is moving Rush off himself. He looked around the room, Ron was hanging off his bed snoring, Both Neville and Seamus has their curtain closed and Harry seems to be the only normal sleeper. Dean quickly changed into some jeans and a white top, trying not to wake anyone up he grabbed some paper and a pencil to go to the common room without dying of boredom.

The common room was quiet and peaceful. The sun was quite soft and there were only a few people in there. Dean sat on the window sile with his legs leaning on the glass. The sketch pad he brought was fairly old, the first few pages holding on for dear life. Most of the drawings were just small sketches of objects, buildings and people. He liked drawing. It was something that helped him think, and focus and it was generally something that he enjoyed. He hasn't had the chance to do it since he got here but this morning was a very good chance too. The castle was the first thing that came to mind, so on this little page, he scribbled as many different perspective drawings of the castle that he had seen.

Time flew by. A large number of students filled in the room, most quietly getting on with work, some going through, the quidditch team passed through loudly but they did apologise when Hermione told them to shut up. He could feel someone lingering but assumed it was just someone who wanted his seat. When he turned he saw Seamus, half asleep, staring at Dean's drawings like it was one of the unknown questions of the universe. Dean closed his pad and smiled "Bit early isn't it?"

"Your up aren't you?" With a lazy grin, he sat on the floor next to the window sile, facing Dean.

Raising his eyebrow Dean looked down at him and nodded "Touche"

For a while they sat in silence, Dean looked out the window while Seamus watched the people in the common room. It was Seamus who broke the silence.

"So you draw?"

"I draw"

"You good?"

"I'm...Well fabulous actually"

"...Good to know"

Another silence. It was peaceful. This time they were both looking out the window. Dean moved up his feet so Seamus could cross his arms down his end and use it to lean on. When the common room got very active and loud the two boys made their way back to their room. It had just past seven, Neville and Harry were both awake but Ron was not. As they walked in, Neville and Harry were ripping the blanket off Ron to try and wake him up. After a loud groan and some aggressive kicks, he curled up and continued to sleep. Seamus laughed and went to sit on his bed to watch, Neville also retreated to his bed leaving Harry to stare at his best friend in complete disbelief.

Dean wanted to sit and watch but instead, he went over to Ron the other side of Harry. He dragged his fingers lightly across Ron's arm as if a spider was crawling on him. Ron shot up with wide eyes and jumped off the bed. The two witnesses erupted into laughter while Harry helped Ron to his feet. Dean smiled and walked over to Rush, petting him softly.

"WHY?" Ron screeched trying to calm his nerves.

"You are a very deep sleeper. You talked about your fear of spiders the first night we were here. Your sleep talking is surprisingly clear" Dean shrugged and threw his art supplies in the top drawer of his nightstand. "We going down for breakfast or not"

While Harry waited for Ron the others ran to the Great hall. He wasn't sure if he was ever going to get used to having the food just appear and being able to eat as much as he can. Which he did. Harry and Ron reappeared soon after and Hermione seemed to be not far behind them. She smiled at Dean but gave a harsh scowl at Ron. He imagined that he had most likely done something to annoy or offend her. At the end of breakfast, Harry and Ron disappeared as well as Neville who said he had to be somewhere. Seamus asked but Dean kicked him hard enough to shut him up.

The rest of the day was pretty normal, again they explored but this time outside. The greenhouses were beautiful, as was the lake. Seeing it in broad daylight was certainly more entertaining than sailing over it late at night. The forest was quite daunting too, they stood by the edge and Seamus told him a few rumours and theories he had heard.

After a very quick lunch, they had settled on the grass by the whomping willow. Dean sat crossed legged whereas Seamus was laying, looking up at the clouds. They didn't bring anything out and walking up just seemed too painful, so they just sorta sat. Dean found out that Seamus lived on a farm and explained how the town he lived with was a mix of muggle and magical people. It was very weird but sounds pretty cool. He could experience both muggle and wizard childhood. Although Seamus didn't know much about football, apparently he had just unconsciously avoided it his entire life.

They also seemed to have fun just by throwing sticks and stones at the aggressive tree. Both of them wondered why the school had one, surely some stupid students would try to be too fast for it. For an hour or two Seamus just rambled. Dean wasn't clear on what he was actually talking about but tried to keep up. A few people came over for a little, usually first years who wanted to look at the famous whomping willow. Most were kind and excited.

After a day of being up, Ron had finally noticed the football posters and drawings up by Dean's bed. They argued for a bit about whether or not football was an actual sport then Ron thought it was stupid how it only had one ball. The others found it hilarious, Ron was confused and kinda outraged whereas Dean was shocked by his audacity and offended deeply that he didn't know what it was. All the boys were in bed by about half nine, all really buzzed about their first official first day. Dean stayed up a little longer than the others but fell asleep, sat up stroking Rush.

Chapter Text

Wednesday, 4th September 1991

"Where's my bag?"

"I think I forgot my Quills"

"Why can't we use normal paper?"

"Aren't the robes a bit.... old-fashioned?"

"Where is my transfiguration book? ALRIGHT who took it"

The boy's dorm on the first day of lessons was nothing short of destructive and disorderly. Dean woke up again at just past six so he packed his shoulder bag with everything he needed, Parchment, Quills, Ink, Books (very heavy), a Water bottle and his sketch pad, putting his wand in his pocket. When he was done he got out one of the books he needed today and started to read a few more chapters. Harry was the next to get up, then Seamus along with Neville. Then we are back to the destruction and disorder of the room.

"Seamus no one took your stupid book, it's under your bed"

"Oh...ha yeah it is! Good shout Dean"

Neville was red-faced and hyperventilating on his bed so Dean sat with him while Seamus packed his bag for him. He repacked it just to make sure. Harry was still trying to get Ron to wake up. After a very active hour and a half, they were all in their uniform with their bags packed. Except for Seamus who carried his books and shoved his quills, wand and ink in his pockets, his tie seemed to have vanished too so Dean quickly nicked his own spare to give to Seamus later. Breakfast was carried by a weirdly obsessive Hermione and an ordinarily excited Seamus. Ron was half asleep and eating double his body weight whereas Neville was barely eating at all. Dean grabbed an apple before the food disappeared so that Neville could eat between classes. The first class at nine was History of magic with Professor Binns. Most of the classes were shared with Slytherins, they assumed the Hufflepuffs and Ravenclaws shared their classes as well. Seamus was stopped on the way to History of magic for his lack of tie but was thankfully sparred detention. Dean pulled out his spare tie and they all got moving.

Professor Binns was a ghost which was interesting until he started talking. The classroom was large with a lot of windows but also quite cold, a wall was completely dedicated to bookshelves. It was dusty, coated in grey and the book was so old the covers were peeling. The lesson was extremely boring and the boys decided to play a game to keep them awake. Anytime the professor said magic Dean stabbed Seamus and if he said History Seamus stabbed Dean. The professor didn't notice but Neville and Hermione did. Neville laughed but Hermione scowled at them. They went over the curriculum and the Professor told them some fun facts about the school, towards the end of the lesson the students had an opportunity to ask questions. Most being about the Professor being a ghost or strange myths about the school's history.

They had two frees before lunch then headed to Defense against the Dark arts. Professor Quill was a nervous man with a very distinct stutter. Everyone was expecting a cool Professor that taught them about dangerous creatures and dark magic but ended up with a wreck of a man that laughed at his own jokes. Not much writing but not much learning either, he told them all ridiculous stories about his encounters with dark creatures like how a prince gave him his turban for fighting off a zombie for him. When Seamus asked about it the professor turned a bright pink and instantly moved on. The professor was fairly young compared to the ghost but they shared the same complexion, pale as snow. His right eye had a strange twitch also.

The last lesson was astronomy, again most of it was the introduction. The astronomy tower was the tallest, the written part is done in the classroom just under the roof. It had beautiful golden statues of planets and their moons, portraits of famous wizards and beautiful constellations. The lesson included writing notes and homework that included studying the stars an evening a week. They had to work in groups to take turns in watching, Dean, Seamus, Neville and Hermione. An interesting combination to say the least. Hermione made a timetable, Neville and Seamus discussed their favourite star constellations while Dean copied out some of the star diagrams on some spar parchment.

Thursday, 5th September 1991

The next lesson was Charms, the teacher had a large stack of books that he piled behind his desk that was so big the desk was barely visible. The classroom was divided into two rows of desks that were raised as they got closer to the wall. In the open space was a small blackboard that had the faded traces of advanced spells, probably from his previous lessons. The man himself was quite small, had slick dark brown hair with some silver streaks and wore a fine black suit. An unexpected piece of the muggle world. He did a register but stopped at Harry's name and made an excited squeak. The introduction was a one-minute speech about the topic and what they'll do. Then he discussed light and decided to teach us our first spell. 'Lumos', is a small light charm that expels light from the tip of a wand. It was simple enough that most people got it in the first lesson. Hermione, of course, was the first and got 10 points, then a Slytherin girl got five points. Dean got it after a good few tries, Neville shortly after. Hermione was great with helping them and cleared the pronunciation and wand movement. The whole class stopped reciting when Seamus's wand exploded in harsh yellow flames in his face. Dean snatched his wand from him on instinct and the flames died. Seamus's face was coated in thick soot, he was frozen for a moment. Dean didn't take his eyes off him for a moment, shakily putting his hand on his shoulder and shaking him lightly.

Flitwick told them to go to the infirmary just to get Seamus checked out. Dean collected their things and they left. Seamus started to become normally chatty a few minutes after they left the classroom. He wasn't burned a lot, with a small burn on his cheek and irritated eyes from the soot. With blurry vision, Seamus had a hard time up the numerous set of stairs to reach the infirmary. It was fresh, open and busy. Screaming fired through the door before they entered the room. They weren't sure what had happened but a crowd of people stood at the back of the room. A Hufflepuff student walked over to them in some sports robes, his voice was soft and low, almost saddened. His eyes scanned over them quickly before a scream snapped him back.

"Madam Pomfrey is busy so take one of these beds and wait"

The older student hurried back over to the scene while Seamus jumped onto the bed. Dean dumped their things but didn't take his eyes off the crowd at the back. However was injured was still screaming but some people, mostly students started to leave the infirmary. Madam Pomfrey did take a few seconds to check over Seamus and asked him to clean his face off soot before rushing off once again.

Dean fetched him a bowl of water and a clean towel, putting it all on the bedside table before sitting in front of Seamus cross-legged. Gently, the bowl balanced in the centre of his legs.

"I can do it if you want. You can't see much anyways"

"Yeah go on then, just...be careful around me cheek"

"Course yeah"

Seamus had no problem ranting about missing some of his first charm class so Dean started to clean the soot off his face. He tried to be gentle but the soot was so thick, that he had to hold the back of Seamus's head. For a moment it was a little awkward, Dean thought Seamus's eyes seemed sad or hurt but he seemed more surprised. Dean continued to quietly wash off the soot until he got around to the cheek. He hesitated before even bringing the towel close to the cheek, it made Seamus flinch and pull back. Not far as Dean had the back of his head. The poor young Griffindor squeezed his eyes shut and grasped his hands harshly. Dean continued as gentle and fast as he could and before both of them knew it, he was putting it all back.

Turns out the injured guy was a fourth-year Slytherin who fell from his broom and broke numerous bones. Madam Pomfrey did not panic, or stress. She instead remained calm and collected, once she was all done with that poor boy she walked over to Seamus and looked at his cheek.

"Sorry to keep you waiting, I'm Madam Pomfrey." With a warm smile she raised her wand at the cheek, the skin regenerated and traces of the burn faded. Seamus immediately lit up and thanked her thoroughly.

"His eyes hurt too, probably from the soot" Dean added quietly. The healer gave him a big smile and recited a spell, with a few blinks Seamus's irritation went down a lot.

"What a good friend. You both first years?" In her hands were some papers and a pen, she questioned Seamus for a few minutes. Mostly just his name and how he got hurt filling out the sheet as they went along. "Well you're fine now, your lesson will end soon so you both are free to go early. If you have any other problems make sure to come straight back" The nurse disappeared into her office leaving the boys to find their way out.

After a very short free period, the first year Gryffindors had their first lesson in Transfiguration. Dean was excited, even though it was an introductory lesson and they probably would just do written work. Transfiguration seemed to be some of the most complex magic they will learn at Hogwarts. Seamus was stopped on the way to Transfiguration for his lack of tie but was thankfully sparred detention. Dean pulled out his spare tie and they all got moving. The only people late to their first class were Harry and Ron who ran in five minutes after the lesson started. Dean shared his desk with his best friend up by the front.

McGonagall was a very serious teacher, she did however have an amazing skill of turning herself into a cat. Dean jumped so hard it startled Seamus who was apparently very chill about the shapeshifting. The introductory lesson was interesting. McGonagall demonstrated her unit of work by turning her desk into a pig, and back again. She made it very clear that we will not be able to even attempt this until 3rd year. After a good half an hour of making complex notes they were all given a single match. Seamus lit 6 matches before McGonagall asked him to stop, baffled at how he managed to do fire in a class about changing magic. Out of the class of about 20 students, only Hermione was able to change the match. As expected McGonagall gave her a small smile which lit Hermione up.

Thanks to Hermione's good mood, lunch was pleasant as was the free after. Even though this was their first week almost all the teachers had given them tasks to complete. Most weren't complicated or long. During the free periods was when most of them started to complete them. Seamus and Neville had done close to none. Dean and Harry did a few. Ron was planning to steal Hermione's and Hermione had completed every single one of the tasks with additional research.

The final class of the day was potions. The one Dean was looking forward to the most. The classroom was in the dungeons, the classroom was large, square and drafty. Very dark also. Shelves wrapped around all the walls, filled with strange glass jars filled with ingredients. By one end of the classroom were a blackboard and a circular table. Professor snape stood next to it with his cold expression. Around the room were four large wooden tables. Dean sat up front with Seamus, Neville and a Slytherin boy Neville met in charms. Theodore Nott was his name, generally, a kind guy from the short greeting they had before snape started his lesson.

Almost immediately Snape attacked Harry, his hatred was obvious and very unjust, Couldn't just be his hatred for Gryffindor. The questions left most other people clueless except Hermione who was bouncing out of her seat trying to get called on. Harry's attitude to snape made everyone snigger, he even caught Seamus winking at him.

The actual lesson was practical, they were all put in pairs. Seamus and Neville. Hermione and Dean. Ron and Harry. They all shared a table to work on. Hermione and Dean did well. The potion was a cure for boils. Simple enough for everyone in the class. Snape went around criticising every single group, except Malfoy and Dean. Instead, he stared at their potions nodded slightly and drifted off to crush his student's confidence.

Neville melted a pot flooding the floor with a layer of acidic fluid that destroyed shoes. Seamus's shoes didn't survive, Dean had more luck however Neville had painful boils which landed him in the infirmary along with Seamus who basically had to carry him there. Snape was not only angry with Neville but somehow blamed Harry and Ron as well. Everyone left very fast when Snape dismissed them, barely rinsing out their cauldrons. But Seamus's had a great big hole at the bottom of his so Dean stayed behind to collect it along with his.

"Find Diagon Alley okay then?" Snape snatched the cauldron before Dean could get it taking it to his table at the front.

"Um...Yeah. Found it pretty cool, the bricks moving and all that" Dean nervously watched as the cold man waved his hand effortlessly at the broken cauldron only for it to repair instantly.

"I'm glad. You did well today, unlike your friends" Prolonging his sentence, he made his way down the room holding the small cauldron out towards Dean "You might not be completely useless after all" With that kind gesture he quickly made his exit.

Dean washed up the cauldron and spent the rest of the evening in the hospital wing with Seamus and Neville, just before curfew they all headed back to the dorms getting ready for the last day of their first week.

Friday, 6th September 1991

Herbology was the only class for Friday, a two-hour class just before lunch. The boys spent the morning after breakfast sitting by the lake. Neville was extremely excited about Herbology. He started to tell both of them about some types of plants and the major ways it has developed healing and potions. Eventually, Harry and Ron made their way down to the lake with Theodore. Then the topic of muggles and wizards.

"So you have two muggle parents?" Theodore almost sounded shocked, as if the idea of it was wrong.

"Don't sound so disgusted. You gonna call him mudblood next?" Seamus snapped back immediately, he was harsh and angry.

"Wait..what's mudblood mean?" Dean was clueless at this point. He didn't understand the problem with having muggle parents, or why Theo would be shocked at that idea.

"A nasty way of saying impure wizard with muggle heritage, commonly used by purebloods like our dear Theodore" Ron was quick with the definition, he held a lot of anger in his tone too. At least Dean knew why now.

"Oh, pureblood means a wizard from pure wizard heritage before you ask" Neville's smile soon dropped when he remembered what conversation they were having.

"N-no I-I didn't mean...no no that...I just...I was always curious as to how they...how you have magic. There is no logical determination as to whether your heritage links into whether or not you have magic." Theo's voice was shaky, unstable.

"It is pretty weird actually" Harry chimed in positively, from there on it was like the anger and hostility melted away. Seamus and Theo went back and forth with theories like it are medical or the complete opposite and to do with morals. That's when everyone looked at Harry, more specifically his scar. The only theory that was ruled out completely. The break-in at Gringotts bank was also a hot topic, Ron, Neville and Theodore were shocked while the others didn't fully grasp the significance of it at all. To them, it was just a robbery but so to the purebloods, it was much more. They tried to explain it to the others however it was a hard story to sell, a bank that is impossible to rob, got robbed.

Eventually, they did have class, but by the time that came around the conversation was light. Making the next to hours start happily. The theoretical classroom was inside, one side of the room was almost completely windows. The almost plants coated the walls and the shelves. Apart from plants, the room was quite empty, the desk at the front had only a few things and the wooden tables for the students had years and years of graffiti drawn or carved all over them.

After the class waited a few minutes a squat little witch ran in catching her breath behind her desk. She wore a light brown jumpsuit stained deeply in multiple colours. Her hair was short, not even past her shoulders, wavy and light silver. Once she started breathing normally, she smiled widely at the class. Not a single word was written during the two hours they were in the lesson. In the classroom, they discussed how herbology was used in the magical world. What it has helped develop in the past? and why learning about it is important for life in general.

After just under an hour they made their way to greenhouse 1. It was hot but spacious with a large oval table in the centre. In that room, they looked at a few plants and Professor Sprout asked a few questions that were supposed to be common knowledge. Neville's hand shot up for every single question. Dean and Seamus were incredibly proud, smiled widely at him and threw stones at people who laughed or muttered nerd. Professor Sprout finished the class early letting the class have the rest of the day to themselves. Not before giving them homework.

Lunch was pleasant, Theo joined them for a bit too. It was too good of a day to spend inside. They all sat on the soft grass in the courtyard. Dean brought his sketch pad and pencils, and the others brought textbooks and homework but not much was done. Harry and Ron shortly after Fred and George Weasley came over as an alibi for a prank that happened all over the school. Various sets of armour came alive and started to dance. To see Professor McGonagall run across the courtyard screaming and chasing the Weasley twins was a sight none of the boys would ever forget.

After dinner, they said goodbye to Theo and piled in front of the fireplace. Dean sat on the floor in front of one of the armchairs. The one Seamus curled up on. He leaned his sketchbook on his legs and used the open flame as inspiration. At this point they were all a lot more quiet, exhausted from sitting in the hot sun all day. One by one they disappeared upstairs until Dean and Seamus remained. Even though most of the chairs were vacant Dean stayed leaning on the armchair.

"Have you heard the word mudblood before then?"

"Some idiots near me gaf didn't like I'm a half-blood, caught onto its meaning pretty quick"

"Oh, Bit rude"

"Ha! Only a bit...don't worry. I'm sure we'll both get used to it eventually"

"Yay..."

A long silence followed. Not awkward nor sad. They just sat until they couldn't keep their eyes open and then went upstairs.

Saturday, 7th September 1991

8:08 AM

Breakfast this early morning was loud and cheery, the first weekend of the year. Older years were sour about not being able to go to Hogsmeade but the first years were happy just having no work. Or at least not much work. Seamus, Dean and Neville were at the Gryffindor table, Neville had some sort of wizard newspaper, Seamus had a Defense against the dark arts textbook along with the work he needed to do while Dean had a potion textbook. They were all interrupted by a large number of birds flying into the hall dropping packages and letters. Neville didn't even look up but Seamus and Dean couldn't take their eyes off them. Until a small burrowing owl landed in front of Neville with two letters. Dean and Seamus looked at each other before over at the bird curiously.

"My nan wrote, probably worrying or complaining...or both" He put the first letter next to his plate but handed the second to Dean "Your parents wrote back"

Before Neville even spoke Dean snatched the letter from his hand, "Thank god"

Ignoring the other two boys Dean tore open the envelope.

'Dear Dean

I am delighted to hear how happy you like your dorm and your new friends. I almost can't believe that the school has an old hat that explores one mind. Who are we to say it wasn't real? Hogwarts sounds very magical. I would love for you to keep in contact and I expect that Professor Snake person is a welcoming face for your upcoming days of lessons. By the time you get this, you would have probably done a lesson or two, or not. I'm not sure how fast owl mail comes. Who's owl is this anyway?

Your father and I miss you, and so do your sisters. The house is so quiet without you and very clean. Your friends even asked about you. Have fun at school and make sure to stay in touch.

from Mum xx'

Dean scrunched up the letter in his pocket with a large smile. Neville was still getting through his letter while Seamus stared at Dean curiously.

"They can't believe an old witches hat looks through the brains of 11-year-olds to see what school collective they fit under"

Seamus erupted into a loud laugh, "Yeah it does sound pretty strange when you describe it like that"

"There's no way you could describe it where it doesn't sound weird"

"A piece of school equipment that sorts students into a system of groups"

Dean laughed a little and nodded "Still the school is a castle, the boats moved on their own, the ceiling is like an open window into the sky and pictures move. If it wasn't a comment on the hat, they have a long list of other strange things to comment on"

Neville put his letter in a pocket and shoved some food in his mouth hastily. Both Dean and Seamus stared until Neville finally noticed and frowned at them.

"My nan just ranted about how I should've written to her as soon as I got here and stuff" He shrugged lazily "I'll have to get back to her as soon as"' Quickly he finished whatever remains of his food was on his plate then got up running out of the Great hall.

Dean and Seamus looked back at each when Neville was out of sight and smiled, "Well she sounds pleasant"

Seamus shrugged and closed his book "Yup, I'm going library. You coming?"

Most of the rest of the day was spent in the library. Dean and Seamus started to throw pieces of rubbers at people studying until Neville and Theodore joined them wanting guidance for their tasks. Both needed help with potions and with that said Hermione joined them. She was livid but soon warmed up, turns out Ron stole some of her papers. Luckily they were some second-year topics which made the guys laugh, she didn't find it too funny.

Chapter Text

The next week of lessons was just as bazaar and marvellous as the last week except for more detentions. House points were awarded for good work and detentions were given to people who didn't bother with the work. Seamus spent a few hours polishing trophies on a Tuesday night. Hermione had earned all of 25% of the current Gryffindor house points which made her very popular to much older Gryffindor who had to take shit for losing the previous years. The third week since their first day at Hogwarts and the second full week of school which means flying lessons. Seamus couldn't stop smiling over the weekend but Neville avoided talking about it. Seamus shared stories about how he flew over the Cliffs of Moher.

Monday, 16th September 1991

The chilly air from the start of this week buzzed with excitement. Flying lessons were no joke, for some, it was a way to show others a skill they had mastered in their minds, for others it was the most bizarre and nerve raking lessons they would experience in their lives. The boy's dorm room was alive much earlier than it usually was, even Ronald was up voluntarily. Dean and the other boys were in uniform by 7 in the morning when they made their way through the warmly lit castle.

"Still can't believe we have to use the school brooms, you recon they any good?" Seamus's irritated tone was not subtle.

"If they work then that'll be better than I've ever had, or Dean for that matter" Harry almost laughed at Seamus's mood before his glare met his face, "Even on a second-hand broom Seamus, I'm sure you'll outride us all"

"I grew up with five older brothers, all bloody well good on a broom. Very competitive they were, George broke my nose just a few weeks ago. Bloody tosser"

With a wave of laughter, they filled a section of the close-to-empty Gryffindor breakfast table. The room was lit by the soft golden glow of the morning sun. Only a handful of students were at breakfast so early on a Monday, the teacher was even more scarce. The table however was filled with servings of the finest and most delicious breakfast foods. Dean grabbed himself a bowl of porridge that was mixed with jam and honey with a few fruits. It was his, go-to, football breakfast. This small reminder of home made his heart sink, and that sadness was swallowed.

Neville only shuffled the food around on his plate, probably because of nerves. He was right to be a little frightened. A boy so clumsy on land should be very cautious on a broom. Hermione was just as nervous as it seems, this was not something one could learn from a book. Over the weekend Hermione went over any book that mentioned flying, and even begged the teachers to go into the restricted section.

When more students started trickling into the Great hall the owls started to deliver the morning post, Seamus and Harry seemed to be the only people who got no post. It had only been three weeks though. Perhaps they were busy. Dean was sent a small bag of his favourite sweets whereas Neville was sent a small circular package. Everyone was interested even Percy looked over. Neville went red and still, he managed to tear off the brown paper into a clear glass ball filled with smoke. Light grey smoke.

"What is that?" Seamus was leaning across the table so much it was like he was laying on it, just to inspect the ball of smoke closer.

Hermione was very excited but had a hint of smugness as she replied, "That's a Remembrall! I read about those. The smoke turns red if you've forgotten something"

"Your nan knows you very well Neville" Dean teased before watching the white smoke slowly turn a bloody red. The whole Gryffindor table laughed at the pink-faced boy as he frowned down at his present.

"Only problem is, I can't bloody remember" He pouted at his frustrations.

It only took a minute for a small group of younger Slytherins to realise what was happening, the joy was too much for them to handle and before anyone noticed their interest the Remembrall was snatched from Neville's hand. Malfoy smirked smugly at them with Crabbe and Boyle stood by his side. Seamus had now jumped across the table and stood next to Neville with Dean right next to him.

"Just give it back Malfoy" Dean's voice was flat.

"Or what" Malfoys sidekicks sniggered.

"You wanna find out tosspot" Seamus snapped urging for a fight.

McGonagall appeared out of nowhere placing her boney hand on Seamus's shoulder, "What is going on here?"

Neville was now shielded by Dean and Seamus as well as Harry and Ron who just really wanted to fight with Malfoy, his voice was shaky and timid "He's got my Remembrall, Professor"

Malfoy chucked the Remembrall at Seamus scowling, "Just looking" Crabbe and Goyle followed him as he walked further down the Great hall.

The lesson was later in the afternoon, no one truly focused on those lessons. Most people were too buzzed for flying. Most conversations were about quidditch or prior experience. Seamus was a lot quieter but Neville seemed to have gotten over it rather quickly and liked the distraction of the other lessons. Dean was too excited to focus too much on class and spent most of his time trying to cheer Seamus up. Throwing him insulting drawings of the teachers he didn't like and a good few of Malfoy which eventually someone passed to him. He blamed Harry, and Ron was very happy to accept that on Harry's behalf.

The afternoon was fairly cool, and breezy and it was clearly showing the gorgeous blue sky. The teacher was Madam Hooch, an older witch who had short, spicy grey hair and yellow hawk-like eyes. The three boys walked down to the field in their flying robes, the lesson was taught to both Slytherins and Gryffindor. Malfoy still looked a bit sour about the drawing making most people a lot happier to be working with the Slytherins.

Two rows of grubby brooms that had uneven and messy bristles were laid on the soft grass for the students to stand next to. Dean was at the end of the row closest to the teacher with Seamus next to him and Neville next to Seamus.

"I need you to hold your hands out above your brooms, palms up and clearly say 'UP'"

A chorus of 'UP's immediately started up loudly. Seamus's broom shot up into his hand making both Neville and Dean jump. Dean looked down at his broom and started to repeat the demand. After three tries the broom gracefully lifted into his hands, it wasn't violent like Seamus but instead kinder. Both the boys watched Neville cheering him on and giving him small pointers till eventually, the broom fly up to his hand shakily. It took over five minutes for everyone to have finally lifted their brooms.

Madam Hooch walked down the row smiling proudly at her students, she demonstrated to her students how to mount their brooms and grip them safely without falling. "Now when I blow my whistle I want you to kick off the ground, rise a few feet keeping your broom steady then come straight down. One...Two...HEY! COME BACK, BOY" The whistle didn't even touch Madam Hooch's lips when Neville jumped. His fear of being left fueled his hard jump. The broom was rising straight up...ten feet...fifteen feet...twenty feet! The higher he got, the paler his face went. Even from that distance, all the students could see the terror on his face.

Dean dropped his broom straight away, his gaze following Neville fearfully. Seamus dragged his broom as he walked backwards, closer to Dean to follow Neville more clearly. For a while, the broom just rose and the students, even Hooch, thought he would be able to lower himself once he had calmed a bit. It was like the broom took control, it shot right through the huddle of students forcing people to duck and dive from its path and straight to the castle. Dean tried to sprint after his friend but was pulled back by his wrist, Seamus shook his head and held Dean's wrist with both hands harshly. Dean held the gaze a little until they were being pushed by everyone following what Neville was doing. The broom crashed into the castle a few more times before widely flying around the towers of the castle before Neville was tossed off. The poor boy's screams were heard from the field, Madam Hooch sprinted towards the castle with a herd of students following closely with their brooms dragging across the grass.

Neville lay limp on the grass, white and shivering. Madam Hooch looked over him before focusing on his wrist, Seamus shoved people out the way to get to Neville dragging Dean with him still grasping his wrist fiercely. They looked down at their friend relieved when he was pulled to his feet grasping his arm, his eyes were filled with tears and he was guided with an arm around him towards the castle.

When both were out of sight Malfoy and his gang started to laugh, "Did you see the great lumps face?"

Parvati Patil snapped "Shut up Malfoy!"

"Ooh sticking up for Longbottom Patil?" Pansy Parkinson, a vile Slytherin girl mocked "Didn't think cry babies would be your type"

Parvati stared, shooting daggers at the Slytherin but both were distracted by the blonde pureblood holding up Neville's Remembrall, "Its that stupid thing that oafs nans sent"

The Slytherin's laughter was interrupted by Harry's fierce tone, "Give it here Malfoy". Everyone had stopped, backing away from the two boys and what looked like this face-off.

Malfoy laughed condescendingly at Harry before looking at his fellow Slytherins, like a performer on a stage "Where should I leave it? In a tree?"

"Give it here!" Harry demanded again, this time louder and harsher.

Good attempt but too late, Malfoy was already soaring through the sky. "Or what Potter?" His smirk was distant but clear as day, Hermione tried to stop Harry with reason however Harry was a natural flyer.

Through that Slytherin vs Gryffindor argument, Dean and Seamus were in the middle of the crowd, Dean behind Seamus but pushed closer every time an insult was thrown. Seamus still had a tight grip on Dean's wrist, it hurt but Dean brushed it off. His other hand rested on the Irish boy's shoulder squeezing gently. Dean didn't know if Seamus was scared for Neville or furious at Malfoy and for which reason is cutting off his circulation to his hand. Watching the race between seemed to calm Seamus to the point he was gently holding onto Dean's robe instead of cutting off his wrist.

McGonagall storming out of the castle and onto the field shocked both of them into letting go. The professor started yelling at Harry, he threw the Remembrall at Seamus before McGonagall hurried him away into the castle to face the music. Seamus dug Neville's present into his pocket and both the boys left before they were forced to listen to the Slytherins insult their friends once again.

The walk to the infirmary room was peaceful, with no noise except for the occasional ghosts or students that had a free. The infirmary was just as quiet with only two other students other than Neville, who was in a bed close to the door. He seemed better, with colour on his face, clear eyes and a smile. Seamus ran to his side hugging him harshly.

"You idiot!" The fiery boy almost screamed in his ear before retreating and sitting on the bed by his feet.

Dean laughed at their interaction before going to his other side, sitting on his chair "It was the broom, Practically trying to murder him"

Neville nodded and sat up, "It did!"

Seamus dug out the Remembrall and placed it on the nightstand, "Harry fought for your honour and that Patil girl, It was very heartwarming"

Neville's smile widened as his cheek became redder, Dean interrupted his blushing before he could match with a tomato "How are you anyways? Was it not your wrist you landed on?"

"Yeah and a bit of a concussion but Madam Pomfrey is brilliant. A few spells and a little potion, I'm feeling better than I did this morning"

"Yeah she is bloody brilliant, ain't she" Seamus turned to watch the nurse as she went to speak to another student on the far side of the room.

Dean and Neville shared a look before laughing at the love-sick fool. For a few more hours until dinner, Dean and Seamus caught up with their friend on what happened once he left with the professor then played a few games. When it was time for dinner they said goodbye to their friend and headed down to the Great hall. Fred and George Weasley joined Harry and Ron so the boys joined Hermione and Parvati. They asked about Neville as soon as they saw the boys, badgering them before they could even sit down with questions. Most about Neville, some about the medicine behind it. After a long talk about that, which was mostly Seamus and Dean bouncing theories off each other. Parvati's twin sister from Ravenclaw joined them after a while, Padma looked identical to her sister, both being very beautiful. The only differences were hairstyle (Parvati usually wore plaits) and Padma was a lot quieter than her sister. They shared their long black hair, dark eyes and tanned complexion, they also had silver necklaces with the letter P that hung from the chain.

Not a word was said about Harry or Malfoy, punishment-wise. Harry seemed pleasantly cheery at dinner. Happier than usual in fact. Dean speculated as to whether he was let off detention or he was in the presence of the Weasley twins. Everyone pilled up in the common room after dinner was done, that was Dean, Seamus, Harry, Ron, Hermione, Parvati and Lavander Brown. Dean didn't know her well but she was a good friend of Parvati and was very lively. They all talked until the sky darkened, which wasn't long, and some hours after that. The first quidditch game was Slytherin Vs Gryffindor, Dean was excited to actually see the match. Ron and Seamus tried to explain it the best they could but it's not something you can visualise without doubting yourself.

Back in the dorm a lot later that night Seamus badgered Harry about McGonagall. It was persistent to the point Dean wanted some new dorm mates. He was on the window ledge with Rush purring loudly as Dean petted him. Harry and Ron tried to brush off Seamus which just made him so much more annoying. Eventually, Ron spat out something that made even Dean interested. They gathered around the window Dean was sitting on, sitting on Dean and Seamus's bed.

"The seekers are the one that finishes the game right?" Dean thought it was a valid question until both Ron and Seamus looked at him in shame.

"Yes, apparently a first year making the team is very rare" Harry tried to flatten his excitement but he was proud of himself, as he should have been.

"Hasn't happened in god knows how many years. Don't worry though, Fred and George say the team is pretty good, Wood might be a little...extreme but his love for the game is pure."

"Pure? It's obsessive. Oh, he also said to keep it a secret, shock everyone at the game so between us, okay?"

"Of course"

"yeh"

Ron nodded along, he was most likely told a long while ago. Right after or at tea. The rest of the night they talked about Harry's first game, asked him questions and gave him tips and pointers. They drifted off earlier than usual, exhausted from the events of today. Dean stayed awake for longer than the others and for the first time this year closed the curtains of his four-poster bed. The events of today distracted him from the thoughts of his home. His mother, Father even his sisters. He missed all of it, his school was messy and chaotic a little like Hogwarts just with a little less magic. He missed playing footy on the field a few minutes away from his house with his mates. He missed his mother screaming at him for dragging mud everywhere. He missed his sisters stealing his things and playing their music way too loud. He missed his father's food and the way he looked at him when he was proud. He put all of this in a letter explaining how homesick he was, how he wanted so much to be home in his bed but how he loved this school and magic, how he already knew two spells and has made three potions, and how he needs to stay but will always miss home.

By the end of the letter, Dean had tears running down his face. For two weeks he barely thought of London, he didn't feel sad when his parents sent a letter or some snacks and his school rarely crossed his mind. He was happy at this school, every day he was excited in his lessons, actively curious about the subjects and he would die for the friends he has made. He even felt guilty about wanting to go home, the school has offered him so much and he feels so privileged. Rush noticed the tears and jumped onto Dean's lap cuddling up to the young student's stomach/legs. The tears came on harder at his cat's empathy. He clamped his hand over his face when he heard a shuffle in one of the beds, not a gentle move but a harsher one. The room was big but through the heavy red curtains, he couldn't tell who was awake until they walked closer to the bed.

"You awake?" Seamus's sleepy and slow voice pierced through the curtains.

Quickly Dean wiped the tears from his cheeks and sniffled harshly once more before pulling back the curtain for him. Seamus climbed in once he was given permission and sat cross-legged in front of Dean. His eyes were tired, droopy as was he but his smile was wide. He immediately reached out to the cat that laid on Dean, Rush seemed to like Seamus but wouldn't leave Deal. Seamus scanned the bed, his gaze stopping at his hardback book, the letter and a pen.

"Writing to your parents?"

"Yeah. I-I just miss them...you know. Even my stupid sisters" His voice clamped up and tears were welling up again.

"What are they like? Your sisters?"

"Umm...Well ones about 15, really smart. Always helped me with my homework. The other two are twins, 13. Donna is really active, taught me to play football when we were younger. Maple is evil, I swear. But I miss her too. I miss all of them, they were with their mum over the holidays so I haven't seen them for a while now."

"So your half-siblings?"

"Step technically, my father is not my biological father. I've known them forever though, they are my family"

"I would love to have siblings. Ireland was lonely, just me and my parents"

"Quiet...not like you at all. I feel like you haven't shut up since you toppled me at the train station"

"I said I was sorry! Multiple times. Besides, I blessed you with my company ever since"

"Right, I'm not sure blessed was the word I would have used"

They both laughed quietly until silence filled the space between them. It wasn't awkward or strange. Rush moved off Dean's lap and on the pillow next to Dean to curl up and sleep. Seamus shuffled and adverted his gaze.

"Right, well if your okay I'll go back to bed"

Dean smiled softly before nodding to him "I'm good. Thank you"

"You'd do the same for me" He smirked and climbed out of the bed.

Dean cleared away his things and drifted quickly to sleep. Dreaming of his life in London with his best friend, the Irish sandy-haired Gryffindor who hasn't shut up since he toppled him.

Thursday, 19th September 1991

The next flying lesson was early Thursday morning. The sky was a lot more cloudy and the grass was layered in a thick fog with dampened the ground. Both Slytherins and Gryffindors were ready for this lesson, hoping they would finally learn to fly. They picked a broom and met Madam Hooch on the field further away from the castle.

"Mount your brooms and kick-off at three. Rise, hover then land. Once this is completed we will move on to what we are supposed to do today. ONE...TWO...THREE"

The sharp whistle echoed the grounds and the class of students all fly up on their brooms. Some rose perfectly, some only hovered over the ground. Neville rose a good few feet before immediately landing. Seamus shot up and stopped looking down at his friends. Dean rose slower than Seamus and passed Neville with a smile. He was trembling more the higher he got but his broom remained steady. He levelled with Seamus who wore a proud smile, "First time on a broom Thomas. How you feeling?"

Dean looked down to the ground where Neville and a few others had already retreated staring up at the others. He looked back at Seamus with joy glimmering in his eyes and a bright smile on his face. "Amazing! Scary, so very scary but amazing"

The group of students were soon called back to the ground where Hooch silenced them once more.

"Very good for your first try. Now depending on how confident you feel I want you to do laps around the castle. The height and speed you feel are best for you, do not just go with your friends and no foul play either. The broom shed hasn't been cleaned out for a few years and it would be the perfect Saturday detention"

Neville told them to go on without him, he had Hermione who was just as clumsy and chaotic as Neville was on a broom. Dean and Seamus kicked off but got a few feet up before Dean stopped and started to head around the castle. Seamus was by his side telling him how to turn better and speed up. When out of sight of Hooch Seamus flew to the side and did a few tricks but eventually, she came soaring past on her broom telling the boys to continue with the laps. They rose higher but didn't speed up, it was easier to talk at slower speeds. That's all they did. Seamus told him about the Irish National Quidditch Team and their best players at the moment while also ripping into the worst players.

Neville and Hermione rose throughout the class. Harry and Ron stayed at a fairly popular height to remain unseen in a way. Draco and a few of his friends were showing off but thankfully were too high to knock people off their own brooms. Pansy and Parvati seemed to be racing around the castle spitting insults at each other. Theodore was leaning towards the higher side of the castle and was with Lavander. They were a little disappointed the lesson ended so early but they didn't stop talking about it until tea. They were too busy stuffing their faces. Everyone else was buzzed too, it made the older years either nostalgic or irritated. Neville was feeling much better after having Hermione just as nervous as he was in the air and he was proud that he was able to get higher. Fred and George reminisced with the first years about their first lesson, they crashed into a group of 6 students.

In the dorm that night they worked on spells, they had all perfected 'Lumos' by now and were working on 'Reparo'. With Seamus it was difficult. In the centre of the room, they placed a half-torn piece of paper on a layer of damp towels. On one side were Harry, Ron and Neville each held bottles of water and on the other side, Seamus held his wand at the paper with Dean standing beside him.

"Try to relax, maybe you put too much energy into it" Dean stepped to the side to watch the 56th attempt of this spell. The others have done it, not perfectly but enough for Professor Flitwick to move on.

Seamus took a deep breath and quietly repeated "Reparo" A red spark shot from his wand and onto the paper. The boys all stood back. The paper pulled itself together violently. For a moment they thought he had perfectly performed yet another charm. Until it suddenly flared up in flames. The boys threw the water at the paper and Dean put his hand on Seamus's shoulder with a wide smile. "YOU DID IT!"

Chapter Text

The rest of September flew by, lessons slowly got more difficult with more practicals thankfully the older years loved helping out. Even Fred and George were helpful, mostly on how to get away with forgotten homework and how to deal with certain teachers. They had nothing for Snape though, apparently, he hated all Gryffindors. Charms were most difficult for Seamus, Dean asked the charms professor if he could help him learn an advanced spell to extinguish fires. Flitwick obliged happily, however, a first-year learning a sixth-year spell took a lot more than twenty minutes after the lesson. He was still working on it in late October, Dean wanted it to be a surprise so he practised in his free periods plus weekends with the Weasley twins or Flitwick.

Wednesday, 30th October 1991

The harsh rain battered the fields that surrounded Hogwarts, and the icy winds charged at the castle mercilessly. The sky was a glum grey; Seamus insisted it was perfect flying conditions. The young Irish boy and his best friend were out flying around the fields on a miserable evening before Halloween. For Seamus, this was a way to feel a bit more at home, an escape from school, an escape with his partner in crime. For Dean it was fun, he loved learning to do tricks from Seamus, it was a window into Seamus's life. For someone so curious, Seamus kept a lot of his home life very private. They had been doing it for a while, Dean had gained a lot more confidence and Seamus seemed to love the idea of being able to help Dean with something.

"Give it two more months and I'll be just as good as you"

"Don't think so mate. You couldn't keep up with me if I had Neville as me plus one"

"You wanna bet?"

"If I win I want half the muggle sweets you've been stashing"

"Done. If I win I want you to do my shift observing stars for astronomy tonight"

With that agreement set in stone the two boys set up a track, between Hagrids hut and a small tree by the lake. A moment before the race they stared at each other with sly smirks, and both of them soared down the field. Seamus kept his smirk glued to Dean, observing his friend's concentrated face. It didn't take much for Seamus to lean forwards and manoeuvre himself to overtake Dean, he looked back with his cheeky grin mocking Dean. As Seamus slowed almost exactly at the tree, Dean had to circle around the tree decreasing his speed to a slow stop.

"So...when am I getting those sweets?"

Dean pouted as both of them made their way back to the castle, they put the brooms back and walked up to the common room. As promised Dean handed his best friend half the sweets he had been saving. Neville's curtains were drawn while Harry and Ron were still in the common room copying each other's homework for tomorrow. Dean and Seamus went to their window with Rush between them trying to steal Seamus's sweets.

"I do admit you picked it up pretty quickly. I fell off hundreds of times when I was young"

"Is that why you set everything alight?"

"Funny-"

"Sorry sorry. Thank you though. Still reckon I'll be better than you in a bit"

"I'll believe it when I see it"

Harry and Ron pilled in at some point and they all went to sleep early preparing for tomorrow's feast and extended curfew. A loud ringing woke Dean up at about 11:55 with a loud groan and slapped his alarm to shut up. He quickly pulled his robe on and slide on some shoes. Thankfully none of the others woke up so Dean left the dorm with a friend following his heel closely. His ginger cat followed Dean from the dorm and through the castle. The roof of the astronomy tower was freezing, Dean started shivering as soon as he opened the door. He cuddles up by a telescope on the roof, with pen and paper and his cat sleeping on his lap. Watching the stars was peaceful which made staying awake that much harder. Dean even started to doze off, his head sinking into the cold jagged bricks. He was startled awake by a warm hand on his shoulder.

"I lost. Why are you here?" Dean had to blink a few times before he saw his best friend's glowing smile. Even to just be in his presence, Dean felt a warmth that comforted him on this brutal night.

"I miss Rush of course" Seamus's eyes flew down to the cat as he stretched and jumped up into the arms of the sandy-haired boy.

"Betrayal" The Londoner clasped his chest in an act of hurt before cracking a smile and looking back at the sky. The silence was warm, stretched out towards the sky as the boys stared together at the stars. Sitting so close they could feel every breath each of them took. Silence so loud it clouded the sky's violent breaths and the owls' calls as they soared through the night. Even after the work was complete they sat on the roof, beaten and sliced by the frozen winds thrown their way.

The two young Gryffindors climbed into their beds, numbed by the sudden warmth. For once Seamus didn't close his curtains. He laid on his side looking toward Deans' bed, with the other boy staring back wearing a small smile.

"Happy Halloween Seamus" He nodded, his face spilling all the grateful feelings he couldn't put into words.

"Happy Halloween Dean" Seamus shrunk into the covers of his bed, falling into a well-deserved sleep.

Thursday, 31st October 1991

Getting out of bed was torture for both the boys, peeling themselves out of the comfort of their toasty beds might have been their worst experiences yet. Neville managed to irritate them out of bed once they realised they managed to outsleep Ron. Disappointed and ashamed of themselves, they raced all over the dorm to get ready. The Great hall was decorated with small pumpkins scattered over the tables and floated up high with various designs, wire-like silver cobwebs that painted the corners of the walls, live bats flew around the room and orange streamers had painted the Great hall. Seamus managed to find sweets hidden in the pumpkins as soon as he approached the table, while Neville, Ron and Seamus filled themselves with candy, Dean and Harry stuck to normal breakfast foods which served them well in the future.

Charms was straight after breakfast leaving the fired-up trio no time to recover from their sugar overdose. Hermione seemed to notice, as well as Parvati and Lavander but the pint-sized professor was oblivious. The levitation spell was next, Wingardium Leviosa. Each student was given a pure white feather and instructions to find a pair. Lavander chose Parvati. Neville demanded to work with Dean while Seamus grabbed Harry leaving Ronald with Hermione. Those two argued like cats and dogs, constantly at each other's throats, teasing and threatening. The chaotic repeatings of the spell filled the classroom. For a while no one had it, everyone felt as if they were just waving a stick at a feather. Flitwick pipped up about halfway through the lesson to praise Hermione, and the whole class silenced within seconds to watch this thin white feather rise from the desks and towards the ceiling much to Ron's annoyance.

Walking through the school Ron was ranting to the boys about Hermione, Dean was only half listening until he saw Hermione barge past Ron and run inside. Harry and Ron disappeared as soon as they entered the building, as did Neville. Dean and Seamus sat in one of the corridors, reading to fill their free period. Dean had a guilty feeling burning through his chest, he should have spoken against Ron, told him about what a prat he was being, told him how smart she was, how kind. A little annoying at times but so were Ron and Seamus come to think of it. He was frowning at his book when his best friend leaned over his shoulder basically flattening him.

"Comfy?"

"Very. You know Ronald is a plonker. He talks out of his arse. I'm sure Hermione is fine so wipe that miserable look off ya face"

Seamus pushed himself off his friend and fell back into the wall, they practise a few spells and argued about where they thought Neville had disappeared off to. The next lesson of the day was transfiguration. The classroom had a singular pumpkin on McGonagall's desk and that's as far as the professor went on Halloween decorations. Sadly the lesson was theory work, they wrote notes for an hour. It wasn't all bad, McGonagall allowed a lot more talking in this lesson due to the holiday spirit. Dean had drawn a picture of a well-postured tabby hat with a witch's hat. Seamus thought it was brilliant so he folded it into a paper aeroplane that soared all over the classroom until the professor got her hands on it. She stared at it for a while before demanding who did it. No one said anything but the numerous glances at Dean from many of the students gave him away pretty quickly. The lucky Gryffindor was given no punishment, he even saw her tuck the picture into her draw with a rare smile. Dean's guilt has completely gone by then.

Lunch was fairly pleasant, Ron managed to eat more sweets whereas the others had learned their previous lesson, deciding to stick with proper food. Dean didn't see Hermione but just assumed she had eaten before the boys had gotten there. Neville, Seamus, Dean and Theodore went to the library in their free period, the only class they had left for that day was potions, most of them were dreading it because Snape was awful on a good day, they couldn't imagine how he was when they were all buzzed on sugar. The library was busy when they walked in, no sign of Hermione but many other students were filling their free periods with homework. They checked ever each other's homework adding bits seen from others and getting rid of waffle they added to make the writing longer. The rest of the time they were divided, Theo and Seamus were going around asking people random questions pretending it was part of a questionnaire from the school while Neville and Dean quietly sat at their table reading. Neville was reading a small book on transfiguration while Dean read some tales of great wizards from the past. It wasn't needed for any of the lessons but it reminded him of books at his old school. Of brave heroes with great power to stop all evil. However here it was real, the power, the bravery, even the evil.

The potions classroom was not decorated. No need, with a classroom that dark and disgusting it was set up for this spooky holiday all year round. Jars filled with animal parts and unknown objects that were drowned in colourful liquids, cobwebs that coated almost every wall and dust that did the same, Snape's purely black robe and cold expression constantly worn were scary enough to count as a costume. His classroom was soon flooded with first-year students who laid their homework on their desks. Dean and his friends chose one of the tables at the front to work on. Snape waved his wand, and with that done the papers stacked on his desk while people's cauldrons appeared on their desks. Snape waved his wand a second time and various bugs spilt out of a cauldron on a desk. The one behind them had black beetles, and the one next to them had flys. unfortunately, Harry's spilt spiders. The ginger-haired boy next to him screamed racing away from them chaotically. He ran so fast so even ran into a wall knocking him back on his arse. The bugs cleared soon after the laughter started, Harry raced to help his best friend while snape gave them instructions on the potion they were to be making.

The Wiggenweld potion was able to cure injuries as well as being the antidote to the sleeping draught and the draught of the living dead. Everyone worked on their own here so Dean started soon, he'd collected the ingredients and followed the instructions given by Snape. Dean had noticed the books had some flaws whereas Snape's instructions were clear as day and usually ended with a shortcut. It was clear why this professor was chosen for Potions and not for Defense against the dark arts. While Dean's potion was brewing he walked over to Seamus and Neville, when Seamus's potion was on the brink of blowing up Dean pulled him back and threw in some Lavander which calmed the brew. The little incident summoned Snape in a matter of seconds.

"Finnigan, I can always trust you to burn the expensive and rare ingredients. Work with Dean, he is clearly more competent than you will ever be"

Seamus laughed when Snape went to watch other people's failures. Dean helped Seamus clear his area of ingredients and wash out his cauldron. The potion only needed twenty minutes to brew so once it was they tested it. Seamus stabbed Dean with a quill so hard he started to bleed. Dean drank a bit of the potion and it closed up almost immediately. They jumped up and cheered excitement with Dean's potion. Snape did scream for them to shut up but they ignored him and celebrated some more. Neville's potion came out a little strange, it would heal the wound just very slowly. They waited 5 minutes for a small cut to fully close.

It was an easy enough potion, a lot of the students got it. Only a lot of them couldn't brew it for long enough because they made it too slowly. Snape reminded them that all they had to do was follow instructions yet they couldn't do that well. He let them leave early but he held Seamus back so Dean went with him.

"You have had numerous practical lessons and in everyone, you have either blown up your potion or burned through your cauldron. Your other teachers have caught me saying you struggle in similar ways in their lessons so we had a meeting to discuss what to do with you. I forgot what the other teacher said however they have encouraged me to invest in a new cauldron, especially for you. It will stay in this classroom but you will still be required to clean it after every single potion. It is unable to melt so you will not burn yourself or other classmates. Your table will also have a mixture of herbs which will stop an explosion before it happens you just need to catch the signs beforehand. This is not for your benefit but instead for the safety and protection of your fellow students"

Both boys looked at each other before smiling at the professor. Seamus felt very bad when Neville was burnt and has been scared ever since. This was perfect. Dean put his hand on Seamus's shoulder and squeezed pulling him back to reality.

"Thank you, Professor. I am excited to make a potion without the melting or explosions."

"That's all"

The boys collected their things and quickly made their way up to the Gryffindor tower. The two best friends talked the whole way about the teachers, they were happy they took notice of Seamus's strange struggles with magic. None of them really knew why he had this strange connection with fire. Professor Flitwick had a theory that Seamus could summon magic so pure it actually had a pyrotechnic effect. When they reached the dorm Seamus ran to the only armchair left and the couch was so packed Dean sat down in front of Seamus's chair leaning on his legs closer to the fire than the others. The fire was so mesmerizing that Dean didn't even realise he was drifting off until a loud noise woke him up and he jumped off Seamus's knee that he was leaning on. Seamus looked down at him with his usual cheeky grin. Dean sat up and looked up at his best friend with a guilty look.

"Sorry, didn't even realise I was tired"

"No need to be sorry. I didn't notice until you jumped off"

Dean laughed and looked over at the empty couch and armchair then back at Seamus.

"Where?-"

"Oh well the girls went to their dorm while Neville, Ron and Harold are out looking for Theo to ask him something"

Dean looked back at the empty chairs but laid back leaning on Seamus's legs again looking into the fire.

Hogwarts 1991 Hallowe'en feast. Hundreds of pumpkins hung from the ceiling not to mention the live bats that clung to the wall, occasionally flying across the hall. They sat and almost immediately dug into the enormous feast. The teachers looked just as happy as the students, even Snape looked more lively than ever. Hermione wasn't present none of the boys had seen her since charms meaning she was probably isolated in her dorm. The feast was amazing, almost better than the First-day feast. He could only imagine what the Christmas feast was like but he didn't wanna be away from his parents for Christmas. In fact, he couldn't even imagine it.

The feast was filled with cheer, the air was light and happy. Until the doors were pushed open and Professor Quill ran down the hall looking petrified. Even more nervous and trembly than he usually was. The hundreds of students watched as this pathetic and wimpy teacher ran about halfway down the Hall before he spoke.

His voice was brittle and low, it echoed around the Great hall covering every inch.

"Troll...TROLL...TROLL IN THE DUNGEON"

The professor's body hit the floor then silence. For a few seconds, everyone was stunned. Even the professors. Even Dumbledor. Then screaming, shouting and screeches of fear. Dean's mind blurred for a moment trying to process and imagine a troll as well as how many ways he could be killed by one. Seamus had leapt over the table to Dean wrapping his hand around Dean's arm. He stood next to Dean shoving people away as they ran in chaos. Dumbledore stood and silenced the hall. The instructions went right through Dean. He was dragged harshly with a soft supporting hand resting on his back. It wasn't until they were by the Gryffindor tower he snapped back. Seamus guided him through the passageway and dumped him in an armchair then sat on the floor by him. Dean didn't realise his shivering until he was buried inside a thick blanket.

"Dean?" The sound was muffled. Barely recognisable as a word. Dean didn't shift, his gaze didn't even twitch.

"Dean?" Now he could recognise it but it was still a little muffled. Lazily his eyes scanned his surroundings seeing Seamus sitting on the wooden coffee table that was centred between the chairs and fireplace.

"Dean!" His best friend smiled and handed him a cup of tea. "Welcome back to the land of the conscious, Neville went up to his room to have a freakout. Didn't wanna move you away from the fire though"

"What the hell is a Troll?" Dean lifted his knees placing the tea on top of them as it was wrapped with his hands. He couldn't bring himself to make eye contact with the young Irish lad. Instead, he turned to the fire, acting as if it was the most interesting thing he had seen for weeks.

"Just big, strong and stupid magical creatures. Honestly, the teacher has probably already dealt with it, it's not difficult" From the corner of his eye he could see his friend's reassuring smile.

Dean forced himself to laugh, it was awkward and short and immediately after he took a sip of tea. For a moment they sat, Dean drank his tea quietly as his friend didn't shift his gaze. Not even for a second. The common room was quiet, deserted even. Many people went to their dorms to feel safe in walls with friends surrounded by all their things. Dean felt safe with the human torch sitting watching over him. Send Seamus in with a wand and a random word, He'll have dealt with it.

It didn't take long for Percy to walk back to the dorms with Harry, Ron and Hermione trailing closely behind him. Hermione came over and hugged Dean from behind sticking her tongue out to Seamus. Dean was stuck holding his tea so hugging back was out of the question, he did lean back a little before she disappeared up the staircase and to her dorm. Harry and Ron filled them in on the real story and the one they had to use. They all went upstairs to find Neville asleep and as soon as Ron saw his bed he was collapsed on top of it and half dead.

Dean went and cuddled with his cat while the others went to bed as well. His mind was wide awake, with both fear and questions. He was so ashamed of his reaction. He was supposed to be brave, wasn't that the requirement as a Gryffindor? What sort of idiot freezes?

Dean slept uneasily that night, filled with self-hatred and sadness. He cuddled up into a ball and shed a few tears onto his pillow before he ended up drifting off to sleep.

Friday, 1st November 1991

Lessons were cancelled due to the deeply depressing events of last night. Dean didn't wake up until about ten to nine, everyone had left for breakfast already and Dean didn't blame them at all. He rubbed his eyes and sat up leaning against the headboard of his bed. The Londoner watched as someone walked into the dorm with a bag.

Seamus dumped the bag on Dean's bed, climbed in and shut the curtains behind him.

"Morning..." Dean's voice was a little husky and slow.

"Good morning!" Seamus's was so loud it seemed to echo all the way down the tower, he wouldn't have been surprised if the Slytherins had heard it.

"So...What do we have here?" With that question, Seamus lit up in the excitement and started spreading out food. He had fruits, pancakes, waffles, sausages, bacon and jars of various sauces and spreads. Along with that, he had stolen two plates, some cutlery and a carton of orange juice. Dean laughed and grabbed Seamus, forcing him into a hug. The boy was so overwhelmed with this kindness he could feel tears welling up in his eyes.

"Thank you" He pulled away and looked up, trying to pull back the tears.

"Nah I've always wanted to steal from school" Seamus passed his friend a plate and they dug in. They talked about last night's events as well as the first quidditch match which coming up.

The rest of the day was spent in Dean's bed. They did go out for lunch and to go get some fresh air. They played games, they did some magic and when Seamus napped on Dean's heel, he sketched his friend as he slept. Sleeping beauty looked peaceful, beautiful even. Dean drew him as such, with every freckle that spread across his face, the way his face was squashed against Dean's legs, every hair that defied the simple laws of gravity. When the sandy-haired boy's eyes fluttered open Dean dug the book between the mattress and headboard behind his pillow.

Dean didn't go to dinner, and Seamus didn't leave his side all day. Why would he start now? He stayed through dinner time and they went down to the kitchens while the Weasley twins took over the common room with their partner in crime Lee Jordan. The lovely house elves got them some sandwiches and some cookies, they snacked in the corridor until a herd of students passed them skipping towards the common room. Whispers about the party had even spread to the darkest corners of the school.

When they got there the common room was almost unrecognisable. There were pumpkins on the bookshelves and desks, fake cobwebs were hung anywhere they could be hung and people were wearing costumes. Fred, George and Lee were dressed as the three musketeers. Harry was dressed like a vampire, Ron as a clown, Hermione as a witch, Neville as a wheres wally even Theo was there, as a skeleton. It was amazing to see. The music fit the vibe perfectly, the first song they heard was Thriller by Micheal Jackson. Before they saw anymore the boys raced upstairs just to find costumes laid on their beds. Mario and Luigi. Seamus snatched the Mario costume off Dean's bed with a large smile, Dean laughed and took the other costume just happy to be included. Together they walked down to the Gryffindor common room and immediately interrogated Neville. Didn't take him long to crack.

"The twins and Lee had their parents send a bunch of costumes so Ron nabbed them. He chose them not me, I promise"

"Chill it wasn't an accusation"

"We love them! Although Seamus liked Mario better than Luigi apparently"

With that cleared Dean went to thank Ron while Seamus tried to get some alcohol. The older years managed to get a spell that made it turn non-alcoholic when the younger years drank it. Responsible stuff. Seamus was furious.

"Hey, Ronald. Thank you so much for the costumes!"

"Right, no worries honestly. I'm surprised you got Luigi actually"

"How come? Seamus didn't hesitate to snatch it out off my bed, selfish cow"

"Weird, he said Luigi was his favourite. He kept going on about the game, the only thing he misses about home apparently"

Ron shrugged but was dragged away by Harry who went to join Hermione. It seemed the whole troll situation seemed to bring the three together, they seemed to be close now. Very close. Surprisingly close. Dean went back to Seamus who seemed a lot calmer than he was. The party was lively and loud. The common room door was propped open so people from all houses could come and enjoy the party. As the night went on the drunker the older years got and the more magical the night became.

Someone made an elephant with the fire. Someone wanted to see how many pumpkins they could levitate. Someone wanted to summon porn, it took a while but a lovely magazine flew into the room and into the hands of a very happy seventh-year girl. Someone else turned the students of the other house's hair colour red. The magic just got funnier. One of the Weasley twins took a break from hosting and disappeared with Lee for an hour or two before reappearing back at the party. Dean met a lot of students that night, most were kind and very drunk. Seamus also made a lot of friends, people wanted to meet him to see his magic in person. The teachers must have mentioned the fire boy as a lot of students knew about his emotional attachment to fire. It resulted in several small fires that were put out by the few sober students. By 12 Dean was tired and decided to go to bed, on the stairs up to the dorm he was held back.

"Green suits you Thomas"

"Is that why you snatched away the red?"

"What if I said it was?"

Seamus smirked and after a minute, he laughed.

"Goodnight Thomas"

"No more fires Finnigan"

Chapter Text

Monday, 4th November 1991

Dean was pulled from the hall and into an empty classroom, stared at by a gang of his friends. Hermione, Ronald, Neville, Theo, Parvati, Lavander and George Weasley all stood with Seamus still holding his upper arm while closing the door behind them.

"Hi?..." Dean's clueless eyes darted around the room while waiting for his answers.

"So the first quidditch match is at the end of the week" Ron started, holding back a wild smile.

"We wanted to make a banner, one better than the Slytherins would be able to make" Hermione added ignoring the look she was getting off Theo.

"Seamus was telling us how amazing you are, actually I don't think we even asked. He just set off saying how talen-" Parvati was quickly cut off but a very shy-looking Seamus.

"They want you to do the banner, Hermione is going to charm it with help from George. You in?" The redness from his cheeks started to fade as he walked towards the open window.

"Course I'm in! I'll do the best banner you guys have ever seen, I promise you that" Dean happily looked at his friends before hopping on his feet buzzing with excitement. "So...Was that all because I've got some transfiguration homework to finish"

It didn't take long for the students to filter out of the abandoned classroom leaving Dean with Seamus. The sandy-haired Gryffindor went and sat on top of the teacher's desk, Dean followed him over leaning on the desk.

"Parvati's a drama queen you know"

"So you didn't go on about my drawing talents for hours. I'll try to cope with the heartbreak"

"Cry as much as you want, I won't judge"

The rest of the day was fairly normal, Dean was thanked by several students on the quidditch team for supporting Harry. Seamus and Neville had ignored the lessons all day, chatting about their ideas. They wanted a huge banner with something written next to a very majestic lion. They argued back and forth, getting opinions and ideas out of as many people as they could. Dean couldn't help but join in.

During the course of the week, Dean had gathered any and all books around the school that had an image of a lion. The poor boys' sketchpad now had pages and pages of lions, from all angles and all sizes. The other two had gotten the banner, and paints and had stolen Dean's pencils. They had sketched a plan but decided after a certain incident that Dean would paint the banner Friday night. He would have both desks in the common room as well as Seamus and Neville telling people to do one if they try taking one. Everyone in the Gryffindor house was very excited about this match so the team got a lot of attention. Harry got smiles and waves all week, him being a seeker was supposed to be on the down low but a lot of people friends with the team knew. Ron and his brothers were very hyped up, like in the extremes. Seamus was more merry than usual. He wouldn't shut up all week, even Neville told him to shut up at one point. As the week went on the more nervous and drawn back Harry became. Dean guessed it was pressure from the entire house weighing on him, every time Dean saw Harry he would try to talk to him about something else. To distract him from his anxieties about the upcoming match.

Friday, 8th November 1991

Lessons that day was a battlefield, the war between Slytherin and Gryffindor was as tense as it had been. Both houses wanted to win and until the match, they resulted in just wailing insults at each other. After the mud fight in Herbology (One Slytherin throwing a handful of soil resulted in the whole class throwing it randomly for 5 minutes before Sprout stopped them), Dean decided to work on that spell with the twins so Neville kidnapped Seamus to force him to do work. Much to Seamus's disappointment.

The day was cloudy but luckily not raining, the grey sky was only miserable. The air was so cold and fierce that it cut like a knife onto Dean's numb cheeks. The dynamic trio of students made their way onto the dampened grass by the lake, ignoring the dullness of the weather. For close to an hour Fred Weasley set a minuscule fire on the grass, Dean tried the spell until the fire was put out by George Weasley, this cycle went on until finally, Dean managed to dim the fire for a good few seconds, close to a minute, before it expanded once again.

"You did it!"

"A few more lessons and it might actually work"

Excited and triumphed Dean skipped back to the castle with the Weasley twins close on his tail, teasing him for his uplifted spirits and even making a few comments about his motives. The bubbly boy finally found his friends in the common room, it seemed they finished homework and moved on to spells. Seamus had soot over a cheek and coated his fingers.

"Fall into the fire Finnigan?"

"He tried the levitating spell...again"

The laughter around the common room seemed to only fuel Seamus's dedication, he roared the spell directing his wand towards a feather that lay on the tiles in front of the fire. The wand lifted for a moment but disappeared gracefully into ashes. Not with a big explosion like before. The room silenced before the laughter started again. Seamus laughed too probably thankful he wasn't a victim of his own magic, yet again. After that performance, Seamus skipped over to his best friend clinging onto his shoulder rubbing soot all over his clothes.

"Where were you? Neville held me hostage, until all me homework was done" Seamus was pouting, pushing Dean up the stairs.

"How inconsiderate?" Questioned Dean as he opened the dorm door before he was pancaked into it.

"Shut up and take that off" He gestured to Dean's uniform then proceeded to go through Dean's draw getting him out some joggers, a plain white shirt and his blue trainers. Dean obediently changed, dragged Seamus to the bathroom then got a cloth to wipe off the soot from his face and hands. Their faces were only centimetres apart, every breath Seamus took he could feel on his cheek.

"Where were you?" Seamus's hands were clamped together on his lap and his eyes glued to the wall behind Dean's head.

"It's a surprise" Dean wiped the last of the black ash off his friend's face gently before he took Seamus's hands. When the silence hovered for long enough for Dean to have wiped all traces of ash, he looked up at Seamus with a small but warm smile "A good surprise. I swear"

"Your all talk Thomas" Seamus flashed his cheeky smile and within a few minutes, they were both in the Great hall stuffing their faces with fish and chips. The hall was as loud as it usually was with the same amount of heart.

Straight after Dean had finished eating he was strongly encouraged to go back to the common room which was exactly what he did. He and some helpful supporters pushed the desks together and placed the sign on top, admiring the sketches Neville and Seamus had already added. The common room was abnormally quiet with only a few students including Neville and Seamus with Harry and Ron in the corner scanning quickly through enormous piles of books. It took hours for Dean to finish, Harry left with a wave, Ron followed soon behind Harry but took a moment to look over Dean's shoulder, and Neville confessed his crushing guilt that he wanted to sleep then slowly made his way up to the room. Seamus stayed. Dean only realised once he was tired, covered in paint and finished. He turned to find Seamus curled up on an armchair sleeping.

To be sure Dean went over to his friend and poke him lightly wondering if it was a light nap or a Ron-type death sleep. When the young Gryffindor didn't flutter open his eyes Dean went to head upstairs. Seamus grabbed Dean's hand, his head still slumped on the chair, his eyes still closed tightly. The painter laughed softly and walked back to him, sitting on the arm of the couch next to Seamus's armchair.

"Tired are we?"

"Too tired to move"

"Don't then"

"Don't leave me, Dean"

At this point Seamus had his eyes open, looking at Dean sadly. Dean didn't have a clue why, he didn't understand at the time.

"I won't leave"

Dean squeezed his friend's hand and slid down onto the squishy sofa still grasping Seamus's hand. Sleep came easy to him that night, engulfed in paint, in front of a blazing fire with his best friend.

Saturday, 9th November 1991

The gleaming sun filled the common room, it wasn't the light that woke Dean but instead the forceful shaking of Harry Potter who had a demented smile. He was hazed and barely conscious as well as being assaulted in a common area, uncomfortable is what he felt, to say the least however he did smile.

"Good morning Harold." Dean pushed away Harry's hands and sat up.

"It is amazing mate! How long did it make?" The orphan looked at Dean, to Seamus then back to him.

"Seamus fell asleep before I finished, felt bad if I left him alone"

"Well don't worry about the poor sofa then"

Dean looked down at various paint smudges all over his side of the sofa, beautiful gold, black and red colours. The happiness soon faded into some sorta guilt.

"Oh, will that wash out?"

Harry just shrugged.

"Magic? If it can repair things, don't see why it can't wash things. Either way, you did amazing mate...I would just shower before you...touch anything else" After a small laugh Harry disappeared, Dean didn't see where. Instead, he looked over at the chaos next to him. Seamus had his head hanging off the bottom of the chair with his legs over the back of it. His mouth was almost fully open with his short hair almost touching the floor. Dean laughed for a minute then pulled Seamus up so he wasn't upside down. It did take a few more minutes for the chaotic child to come back to earth. He didn't say anything, just walked slowly over to the poster, smiled down at the artwork then gestured to Dean for them to go up to their room. Dean, without touching anything else, followed him up.

After a well-deserved shower and a clean set of clothes, Dean reappeared in the dorm to all the boys waiting patiently. Harry had his leg nervously bouncing on the dark wooden floors, Seamus was as active as he usually was and Ronald for the first time this year looked awake, not slouching, constantly yawning or half asleep but instead conscious and sprightly. Neville however looked very worn out. It didn't take long for all the boys to trail down to the common room just to find Hermione and George charming Dean's work of art. Dean also noticed the paint over the room was gone. Thankfully.

Breakfast was spent with Dean and Seamus together going over Quidditch once again. Seamus reckoned that he would understand it when he sees it but Dean felt a little on the outside of things. Neville and Ron talked with Hermione about famous Quidditch player rumours and gossip. Harry was timid, barely said anything and had nothing on his plate.

"You've got to eat breakfast" Neville choked out shoving another forkful of food into his mouth.

"Not hungry"

"Not even a bit of toast" Suggested Hermione gently.

"Mate your gonna need the strength" Seamus started cheerfully, "Seekers are the first to get nobbled by the other team and we are going against Slytherin"

Dean kicked him to try to stop him but Seamus seemed to think it wasn't intentional and before he could do it again the damage was done. It did however scare the new seeker into eating. It also made him as white as a sheet.

The sky was grey and the air was harsh but no rain was yet to pour. By the colour of the clouds, it didn't look like it was going to. Luckily. Dean and his friends all went to the stadiums as soon as they could. They chose the seats closest to the pitch. The pitch was huge, the ground coated in a fresh bold green. The stands were risen high wrapped in enormous sheets of rich fabrics, the colours of each house separating the seats with a larger stand between Gryffindor and Hufflepuff. This was a beautiful pale blue and gold colour with seats in excellent condition. That one was for the teachers with a wooden box in the centre for the commentator. The banner couldn't be missed, not only was it extremely large but also had 'Potter for president' written on one side in red outlines in gold, with a huge, majestic lion drawn on the other side. It was mostly the lion's head and was bewitched not only to alternate most colours except black and green but to also roar every time the Gryffindor team scored a goal.

11:00 AM

The stands were filled, gold and red painted on one side with green and black coating the other. The noise was overwhelming, crushing in some sense. The teams were introduced by Lee Jordan, who not only commented on their previous experience but also on the rumours and gossip that followed them. The Slytherins flew out first, introductions were short and sweet with mostly cheering but a few boos from the Gryffindor side of the stands. Most flew out majestically and sat properly on their broom, with good posture and a showy stance. Draco flew the same way in class, with the occasional hint of anger.

Gryffindors followed shortly after, Oliver Wood went first as both the captain and keeper of the team. He had a passion for the sport, a unique obsession one might say. The rest of the team was introduced also but they seemed more relaxed than the Slytherins and Wood. Not that they weren't happy. They flew around, getting attention from friends, and teachers, they even went over to the Slytherin stands to give a little smile. Of course, it wasn't appreciated. Harry was the last out. Naturally, he soared out. The crowd exploded into cheers as the Slytherins froze in shock. A first year as the new Gryffindor seeker was big news. The other houses were conflicted. Some cheered, happy for the first year. Some were in shock like the Slytherins. Some gossiped with their friends. Harry's introduction was longer than all the others.

"Here comes Harry potter the newest Gryffindor seeker. The only first-year player that has been seen for centuries. Who knows how this remarkably well-known young man ended up on the Gryffindor team? Will the boy who lived be a natural? Or did his fame help him cut a few corners? Let's find out and see shall we"

Lee was constantly scowled by Professor McGonagal however his tactics and cheeky remarks never went too far, as if the boy couldn't help it. Though his commentary added a lot more depth and enjoyment to the game. For some, it was their main reason for watching the games as opposed to being inside, in the warmth. Fred and George went over to Harry probably to give him some last-minute advice or some new game plan before Madam Hooch blew the whistle and called them all to their positions. With a second whistle, the game commenced quickly.

Dean tried to follow as best he could. Thankfully Lee was caught up to all that was happening, adding quick explanations and whatnot. The most Dean could decipher from the blurry figures that zoomed past was what team they were on. Harry started a little nervous and shaky but according to Lee everyone usually takes time to warm up. As soon as he saw something, Harry zoomed across the pitch. Dodging all the players while flying extremely fast was supposed to be difficult, Harry flew in between all the players like it was the easiest thing in the world. Gifted.

The rest of the game was normal, Dean started to get the hang of the game cheering on his team and most importantly his friend. Dean jumped violently when Harry had a close call with a bludger but the strangest part came after. His broom started to fidget. At first, they were small spasms but they became a lot more aggressive. The first-year gripped harshly onto his broom, holding on for dear life. Seamus and Dean ran to the railings confused and scared. Hermione and Ron whispered to Hagrid, shortly after Hermione disappeared. Seamus was too busy to even notice, same with Neville. This was the only time Neville genuinely seemed to be engaging in the game. If it wasn't because a friend might it might have been a happy occasion.

A small fire on the teacher's stand distracted people for a moment and only seconds later Harry soared past Dean and his friends going for gold. The famous child reached out but when that didn't work he stood on his broom surfing the air steadily. For a while anyways. He tumbled forward but luckily he was only a little off the ground. Not only was he off his broom but the snitched disappeared. Everyone was puzzled, the players seemed to pause to look down at this new seeker. He was now on his feet hunched over choking. The golden snitch landed in the palm of the boy's hand. He looked down in shock then held it high up in the sky letting it glisten in the murky glow of the sun.

High-pitched ringing filled Dean's ears, and the screams and cheers from the Gryffindor stands were explosive. Dean and Seamus stood side by side screaming for their house's victory, for their friend's victory. They were the first to sprint down to the field, the team had gathered together with smiles and hugs. Seamus cleared a path, pushing people to get to Harry and flinging his arms around him. Dean laughed and gave Harry an encouraging pat on his shoulder. Hermione and Ron were the next to surround Harry with puzzling looks which turned quickly into happiness. The rest of the team was surrounded by friends and fellow Gryffindors praised for their skill and victory. Celebrations and cheer lasted well into lunch, probably why the Slytherin table was looking very vacant. Harry, Ron and Hermione didn't look as happy as everyone else but most people couldn't bring themselves to ask. Except for Seamus who only stopped after the fifth time asking. Nothing could stop Seamus, the sandy-haired boy talked for hours about the match. He explained the game. How good the players were. How bad they were. What they did do wrong and why it was wrong? And about 20 more versions of those.

Later that night the common room was transformed. It had decorations of gold and red, filled with food and drinks and popular music that roared making the floor vibrate. The team were in their uniform but everyone else was dressed in a range of witch robes or muggle clothes. People from other houses joined in the celebrations, even Percy was somehow convinced to relax by Oliver Wood. They certainly seemed close, he even gave Percy a drink. Like a drink drink. Seamus stole some clothes from Dean, a pair of jeans and a red sweater. Dean had black jeans and a plain white shirt. Turns out Seamus brought mostly dirty and ripped jeans that were patched up in various places. The shirts were stained and used too. Living on a farm didn't seem to be as luxurious as living in the city.

Parvati and Lavander dragged them away from the comforts of the fire and started introducing them to other students they had met. Theodore showed up at one point and kept Neville company on the couch, both of them gossiped together about various things they had heard. Both the boys were so timid they seemed to become invisible. They would both make quite good spies. Dean met several new people that night, most people were so drunk they wouldn't remember who he was. The Londoner felt suffocated, barely able to move without bumping into someone, so trapped he couldn't take a full breath. Seamus managed to find his friend through the messy swarm of teenagers in the common room then pushed his way past with Dean following at his heel. Clasping desperately on his shirt until they were so far away from the party there was no trace of its thunderous music. Seamus dragged Dean to an immense window sitting him down on the sill as he found a seat on the hard and bitter stone floor. He leant back on the rough wall breathing in the crisp natural air, calming the deafening beating of his heart and the ferocious pounding in his head. Seamus folded his arms on the sill using them as a pillow to rest on, he watched concerned as his best-friend relaxed in the dim and empty hall. Silence loomed over them until Dean looked down at his friend and broke it.

"Didn't think Theo would show up"

"After the Slytherins disastrous defeat? Neither did I"

"Can't believe Percy's drinking too!"

"Nooo! How did I miss that?"

They laughed together turning their focus as they stared out the window. All they could see was the eternal darkness decorated with small sparks of light. The pale moon was lost and instead replaced with the hundreds of stars that hung from the sky.

"Well, we can't stay here all night. Best get back"

"You sure? You were about to faint back there like some damsel in distress"

"I beg your pardon"

"See! Little posho"

Seamus laughed as Dean shot up and chased him down the hall playfully, they wrestled for a while. Shoving each other into the walls of the corridors spitting empty threats and weak insults. Seamus halted to a stop round a corner causing Dean to crash into him, once he was stable he looked up to see four very angry-looking Slytherins. They couldn't have been from year seven but they certainly wouldn't in the younger years. Judging from their sour faces they took the Slytherins loss to their hearts.

"What are a couple of Mudbloods doing out here?" One of them spat venomously.

"Yeah. Aren't you missing the celebrations?" The other chirped in.

Dean went and stood beside Seamus, seeing his friend grasp his wand from his pocket. He didn't want a scene but he could feel the anger bubbling in Seamus.

"After we absolutely wiped the floor with your pathetic excuse of a team? Your right we ought to be celebrating" Dean couldn't see the smile that went with that witty remark but could sure as hell imagine it. The four boys only got more enraged resulting in them all raising their wands. Dean was quick to grab his, if only they had learnt offensive spells.

"Why don't we just leave, yeah?" Dean was ignored by both parties.

"Your gonna regret that, f*ggot"

Around two or three of the boys flicked their wands, Seamus countered with an explosion of fire that seemed to only counter one of the spells but also distracted them. Dean spat the only offensive spell he knew, a wand flew out of a hand and onto the floor a safe distance away from the boy. Both Slytherins aiming for Seamus were dealt with only leaving the third nasty boy. By the time all the spells were expressed, no one could stop the third spell from following through. A long string of green sparks bolted across the long corridor striking Dean's chest and pushing him down onto the floor. His head bounced down onto the hard rock floor not only knocking him unconscious but also staining the stone in blood.

Chapter Text

Saturday, 9th November 1991

Continued...

Seamus had his eyes glued to the small group of Slytherins, he saw the swirl of green sparks swirl gracefully past himself, the next thing he heard was the deafening thump as his friend's body hit the ground. Like a statue, Seamus stood frozen in place, his wand still risen but his head dropped to watch as the blood pour through the cracks of the stone, then under his shoes.

"Get help" His voice was weak and shakey, hanging onto any stability it could gather. His eyes widened as he stared into the mirrored reflection of himself in the pool of blood. His muscle hard as stone with the crushing weight of his guilt to keep him company.

"GET HELP" The howl echoed down the halls of the vacant castle, chasing the three Slytherins away. The fourth just stood. His wand wasn't out. His face was pale. Like he'd seen a ghost. His Whole body trembling. He was the only one who didn't attack the two first years. Didn't scream shout slurs at them or intimidate them.

Seamus fell to his knees. The boy sat, his eyes following the path of blood as it crept down, spreading further. He was so focused on Dean that he didn't even notice the Slytherin take Seamus's hand to put pressure on the back of Dean's head, pressing down the stranger's jacket to the wound. Seamus watched the boy's mouth move but couldn't hear him speak, his eyes flicked between his best friend and this stranger. The Londoner lay still, his chest moving up and down slowly and dimly. It looked just as if he was sleeping. His features were soft but his body was limp. Even the sight of it brought tears to his eyes, making his cheeks turn a brick red.

Help only took a few minutes to arrive, would've been sooner but as it turns out the boy who stayed had to go get Madam Pomfrey himself. Seamus refused to leave his friend's side, not even as McGonagal took his arm. She pulled him back gently but he pushed forward following his friend, holding his hand the whole way. The Professors tried to keep Seamus outside the hospital wing but after screaming for his best friend they let him in as long as he didn't interrupt Madam Pomfrey. McGonagal was the first to be informed, Snape was also summoned along with Professor Quill and Flinch. Seamus ignored all of them, their comforting gestures as well as their questions. The sandy-haired boy trembled at the foot of the bed Dean was getting treated. His shirt was removed to deal with the strike to his chest, as it didn't look as bad as the injury to his head. The huge wound was a vertical wound that ran down the centre of his head, a little to the right. The nurse ran her wand down the injury and Seamus could hear the bone reconnect and saw the skin pull together on top of it.

Dean's chest had a dark wound that ran across it, nothing like anything Seamus had seen before. It was like he was hit in the chest with some lightning as the marking stretched out from where it hit creating multiple branches the energy travelled down. If it wasn't causing pain to his best friend Seamus might have thought it was cool. But he didn't. He stood at the end of the best watching as the unconscious boy was being put back together after lifelessly bleeding out on the stone. The blood marked a path from here to the hall, faint traces from Seamus's shoe and small droplets from Dean. Flinch had to leave and clean it. Professor Quill left with him and truthfully Seamus didn't know why he was there at all. Snape and McGonagall stayed. McGonagall helped Madam Pomfrey while Snape ranted about how something like this shouldn't be allowed to happen. It trailed off from there.

It took two hours for Dean to regain consciousness. Seamus didn't take his eyes off him for a second. It was 1:46 AM and the Irish lad was sitting next to the bed watching Dean. McGonagall went to make some tea for the nurse while Snape went outside to get the Slytherin boy's account of the night. The sour professor came back into the dark room bringing a tense and quite scary atmosphere however when he sat on a chair by the foot of the Gryffindor's bed he almost seemed, empathetic. Seamus shot up when his friend opened his eyes, Dean's eyes went to Seamus then snape. The patient looked down at the hospital gown he was wearing and then brought his hand to his chest. The Gryffindor shuffled himself up.

"What time is it?" Dean looked to the windows and then back at Snape who looked half dead.

"It's almost two in the morn-" The husky voice of the professor was interrupted by the very alert 11-year-old Seamus.

"You okay? You in pain? I can go get Madam Pomfrey. She'll be able to do something I'm sure" He was already on his feet before Dean could reply or even comprehend what he was saying.

"What? NO...no I'm good. Just tired."

"Sleep. Both of you. Professor McGonagall and I will be speaking with both off you tomorrow to get statements for the events of tonight"

Snape stood and for a moment waited to see if Seamus was also leaving but took a hint when Seamus sat back down. The Professor slowly drifted out of the room but the two women hidden away in the office came out. McGonagal calmly strolled out of the office whereas Madam Pomfrey stormed out full speed to slap Dean's forehead to get his temperature.

"Glad to see you are okay now Dean. Get some more rest and we will be sure to deal with this in the morning"

The head of Gryffindor walked over to Seamus and gestured to the door, "You cannot stay overnight, wash that off your hands then I'll walk you back to the dormitories"

"Enjoy your walk, but I'm not leaving" The sassy boy crossed his arms from his chair, before McGonagall could yell or physically remove the child from the room Madam Pomfrey walked to McGonagall placing her hand on the Professors shoulder. The Gryffindor looked down at his hands, the red spread over his palms all the way onto his clothes. He sparred a moment to wash off the blood, clawing his palms till the only red he saw was the raw scratches.

"Minerva it's okay. I think both the boys have been through quite enough, Seamus is welcome to one of the spare beds for tonight. You and Snape can collect the statements early tomorrow, I'll let you know when they are awake and ready to talk" While talking softly to the Head of Gryffindor she was subtly walking her to the door, they whispered for a moment by the huge doors before the sharp clicking of McGonagall's heels slowly faded down the hall. The nurse walked back and quickly prepared a second bed next to Dean's, by then Seamus was back. "I want no messing around, straight to sleep. You both need to rest, you especially Dean. I will leave now. If you need anything knock on the door down the hall to the left" With that she got them both a glass of water and then disappeared.

Seamus climbed into the cold bed but sat facing Dean. The young boy's eyes were fighting to stay open but his whole body was violently shivering. Seamus grabbed his blanket and walked over handing it over. Dean took it with a small smile, "C-could...I'm sorry I just" The poor boy's voice was brittle, barely able to muster together a proper sentence. Seamus understood. His friend wasn't cold, he was scared. Terrified probably.

"Budge up then" Happily, Seamus kicked off his shoes and climbed into his friend's bed. It wasn't as big as the ones in the dorm sadly but they managed. The thin blue curtain wrapped around their bed letting in the small amount of light from around the room. Seamus and Dean turned to their sides to face each other, without the comfort of the light they could only feel each other's presence. The body warmth, the breaths they each took, any and every time they shifted.

"Are you sure your okay?" Seamus could feel Dean's body calm slowly the longer they lay, the trembling was softer.

"I am. Just tired mostly"

"Sleep then"

With that cleared up both the boy shared some laughter before Dean fell harshly into a deep sleep. Seamus stayed awake, he fought the fiery urge to just close his eyes and sleep but every time he tried he felt the shivering from Dean or a light jolt that he overthought as a nightmare. The sun started to rise when Seamus finally started to doze off.

Sunday, 10th November 1991

Harshly the curtain was pulled back, the hooks scraping loudly on the rails. Whispers between the school nurse and Dean were exchanged for a few seconds before Seamus gave up on his need for sleep. Opening his eyes and letting in the blinding rays of the sun caused Seamus to squint as he turned to the pair on the other side of the bed. Dean spared a moment to smile at his best friend before answering further questions from the concerned nurse. Seamus peeled back the blanket letting in the piercing cold, almost immediately he covered himself back up pulling the warmth up over his shoulders. Both Dean and the nurse laughed at him before Madam Pomfrey left.

"Morning sunshine"

"Why is it so cold?"

Dean laughed at Seamus's pout, shrugging off the question.

"Madam Pomfrey is going to get us some breakfast. You know you can go back to the dorm if you want, you might still be able to eat with the others in the Hall"

"Why would I do that when we get five-star service here, breakfast in bed and all"

They shared a look. Dean's full of gratitude and respect, Seamus's full of happiness but also concern. The worry was not something he showed on his face, instead, he pulled himself up and yawned. It didn't take long for their breakfast to arrive, they scoffed it up and it was around 8 AM when Madam Pomfrey sent her Patronus after the heads of houses.

McGonagal was the first to arrive, Seamus was now sitting towards the foot of the bed leaving Dean with more room. She went and stood next to the bed smiling at the pair of them.

"How are you feeling this morning Dean?"

"Much better after some sleep and food, thanks professor"

"I'm glad to hear it"

Snape slowly wandered in. He stood next to McGonagall closer to Dean than Seamus. Without greeting anyone he got out a piece of parchment from his cloak along with a quill that hovered over the paper.

"We need a detailed recollection of last night. Seamus, if you disagree with anything said or have anything to add feel free to do so afterwards so the quill does not get confused. Am I understood?"

Both boys nodded and politely the professors stood waiting for Dean.

"There was a celebration at the dorm for the Quidditch win, Seamus and I left for a bit because I wanted a bit of space away from the music and crowds. On the way back we saw the four Slytherins. They asked us what we were doing there and why we weren't celebrating. Seamus commented on their pathetic defeat in the match so they raised their wands. I only saw two move their wands at Seamus so I disarmed one. I saw green then....nothing"

Snape shot a look over to Seamus.

"Oh right. I countered the second guy with fire, I can't remember what spell it was supposed to be. The third guy was too fast, I-I didn't see him until...well. Yeah anyway. Dean hit his head when he was thrown back, I shouted for them to get help. Three of them ran and the fourth helped me put pressure on the wound on Dean's head. He also went to get help I think"

Seamus looked down at his hands where the blood stained his hands. It was as if he could still see it clear as day, even after washing his hands multiple times. Dean kicked Seamus's hand after the covers making him look up to him.

"Thank you so much, Professor Snape and I will make sure to deal with this appropriately. All four of the Slytherin boys will be dealt with accordingly. We will let you know everything later today once it is all sorted and you Dean have had more rest"

The professors said a quick goodbye, Snape made a hasty exit whereas McGonagall stayed and chatted to Madam Pomfrey for a little bit. Seamus and Dean chatted for a bit but Dean looked a little tired and warn down so Seamus slide on his shoes and said goodbye to his friend.

The walk back to the dorm was a glum one. Quite also. His feet dragged the ground not even noticing the red-stained footprints he lead down the halls for a while. Even though the blood from his shoes rubbed off on the ground, his jeans and the red sleeves of his jumper were still stained with the dried blood of his best friend. He passed a few people to the tower, most stared at the blood but luckily no one stopped to speak to him. Seamus kept his eyes on the stone bricks that he followed to the Gryffindor tower. He walked in to find the common room in a state, rubbish was everywhere. Not many people though, Fred, George and Lee were throwing rubbish at each other trying to get them into the black bin bags. Once they saw Seamus they stopped and moved completely out of his way, watching as he walked through the room and up the spiral staircase to his dorm room.

No one asked. No one was really shocked either. Seamus had noticed that not a single person he has seen really asked or looked too worried. He was covered in blood yet no one cared to ask why. They must already know or at least know some version of what had happened.

The dorm room was vacant. Dean and Seamus's beds were the only ones undisturbed. The fire was still lit but barely. Seamus threw a few small logs to revive the flame. While the fire was re-aliving Seamus headed to the bathroom. The blood-stained clothes were kicked to the corner of the room while Seamus scrubbed all the blood off his skin. He stayed under the boiling water until he was scorched. After changing into some jeans and a baggy hoodie he threw the articles from earlier into the flames and watched for a moment as they quickly caught alight, turning into ash.

"I can't believe they are still cleaning! I wonder if-"

Ron's voice trailed off to a stop once the group of boys saw Seamus in front of the fire. Not a word was spoken, and they shuffled into the room not walking in further than a few steps. Seamus turned to look at them with a small and unconvincing smile.

"Morning. How was the party?"

"How's Dean?" Harry didn't waste time at all, he was the first to cross the room and place a comforting hand on Seamus's shoulder.

"He...Madam Pomfrey healed all his wounds last night, he's been resting all morning"

"And you?" Neville followed Harry across the room and stood behind him.

"I'm fine. It's him I'm worried about. Did McGonagall tell you guys?"

"Well, she stopped the party last night and informed us that there was an altercation resulting in Dean going to the infirmary." Ron finally pipped up as he walked over to stand by Harry. "We weren't told how bad it was"

"Some Slytherins attacked us, it wasn't fully unprovoked I admit but Dean said nothing. He defended me and was hit with some sort of offensive charm, he fell back and cracked open his head. Snape and McGonagall got our statements this morning but I needed a shower" Seamus went over to Dean's cat adding some food to his bowl and petting his head softly. "Dean should be fine. Dunno what's happening to the Slytherins"

"We're glad. Do you think he would want visitors?" Neville smiled, relieved that Dean was okay.

"He needs sleep right now. Go over after lunch or close to the evening, he would be sick of me by then" With a small laugh Seamus headed back to the door. "See you"

After an echo of goodbyes, Seamus was called back by Neville who carried a card and a box that made Seamus freeze.

"Some owl dropped this off for you. Do you want it now or should I leave it on the side?"

"Leave it on my bed please...NO wait could you slide it under my bed?"

Neville nodded happily and went back into the dorm, leaving Seamus to head to the infirmary. Any and all thought revolving around that box was pushed to the bottom of his mind, so he could deal with it another time. When he pushed open the heavy doors to the infirmary, he noticed someone standing at the foot of Dean's hospital bed. The stranger was tall, with long dark hair that was pulled up into a messy bun. They seemed to be chatting quite happily but when Seamus got closer the more he recognised who it was. His wand was instantly raised to face the Slytherin boy.

"YOU!" Seamus's anger boiled up making the end of his wand spark up slightly. From the corner of his eye, he saw Dean's panic as he shot up from his bed.

"He helped, Seamus. He was here apologising" Dean gently grabbed his friend's wrist and when Seamus looked back at him, he took the opportunity to snatch the wand and go back into the bed. The Slytherin boy looked at Seamus, not worried, threatened or glaring but instead apologetic.

"I'm Enzo Bastille Bass, I came here to apologise to Dean and explain myself. I had nothing to do with those idiots, we all had detention with the same teacher and were just heading back to the common room. I was gonna walk away but they attacked. I should have done more I admit but I honestly didn't think they'd be cruel enough to attack eleven-year-old kids...You both did well though. Disarmed two fifth-year students as first years is very impressive. It's a shame you both were outnumbered"

The fourth year stood in front of Seamus and had a straight face, it didn't change one bit. It wasn't cold like Snape's natural expression but a neutral expression. The anger that bubbled in Seamus sizzled down and he nodded at Enzo respectfully.

"Yeah yeah whatever"

Just as Seamus finished his sentence, Professor McGonagall, Professor Snape and the three Slytherins walked into the infirmary all heading to the foot of Dean's bed. Seamus went and leaned on the wall on the opposite side of the bed.

"Professor Snape and I have gone through all the statements and have decided on punishments however before we get to that let's hear from the boys"

She gestured for them to say something but it wasn't until Snape hit the back of their heads that they said something. Each of them had their heads pointing towards the ground, in unison they quietly muttered an apology.

"Well then...Zezia since you inflicted the most harm you will be given the worse punishment. Your wand privileges will be taken for a year and a half, you will only be able to use magic when supervised by a Professor. If we hear that you used another wand you will be suspended or even expelled." Professor McGonagall started but it seemed Snape wanted the pleasure of announcing this also.

"You have detention for two months along with an earlier curfew of 8 PM. You cannot play quidditch or go to Hogsmead this year either. Now Zezia leave" Once he had permission Zezia shoved his hands in his pocket, glared at Dean (but Seamus stood in the way glaring back) and quickly he left the other two students to get their punishments. "Hugo and Alaric, you will face similar punishments. Your magic privileges will also be taken for a year. You will have detention and early curfew for a month but you will not be serving detentions together. Also, 100 points are being taken from us, it would have been 120 but Enzo's help softened the blow a little. Now leave"

The other two left just as quickly as Zezia but didn't stop to glare. Snape spared a moment to look at Enzo, nodding his head respectfully to him and then turning to Dean. "They will not have the chance to do something like this again, you will recover fast enough to go to classes tomorrow so don't forget the homework" Snape glared at the forgetful Gryffindor that stood by Dean's bed then left hastily. Enzo waved and left to leave the Gryffindors with their head of house.

"Yes you have physically recovered however if you do not feel up to classes just yet you are permitted to have Monday off-"

"Can i-" Seamus started.

"No Seamus, you cannot also have a day off"

Dean laughed at his friend's attempt and smiled at the Professor.

"Thank you, professor. I'll see you in class tomorrow"

Professor McGonagall smiled proudly at the patient before nodding her head and heading to the door. Standing at the doorway she turned back to the students.

"Before I forget. Happy birthday Seamus"

After dropping that bomb, the Professor closed the door behind herself. Seamus froze, looking towards the door. He couldn't face looking at Dean, his friend could probably tell too. Dean tried to act as if McGonagall just left without adding any celebratory comment.

"I'm being released soon, Madam Pomfrey is just getting me something to wear that isn't a pair of Pajamas"

"Right Right everyone was excited to hear your okay. Neville almost cried when I told him you would be back to your fabulous self in no time"

"Aww I'll stop by the dorm before lunch, we can catch up with people in the great hall"

Seamus nodded in agreement and went to help Madam Pomfrey look through the clothes she had since Dean's were thrown away. Dean changed into grey joggers and a very baggy, oversized white shirt that had a pink cat on the front. Seamus laughed but Dean wore the shirt proudly. Walking to the dorm was better than when Seamus walked alone. He walked slowly so his friend didn't have to push himself, they passed multiple people that stopped to talk to Dean. Let him know they are happy he is okay, and say how proud they are of his magic and selflessness. Seamus never noticed how popular Dean was, he was kind, helpful and generous meaning people from all sorts of years and houses were happy to see he was well. It warmed Seamus's heart, Dean was very flustered but he seemed very touched as well.

It took the two boys close to an hour to reach their dorm. They hadn't seen many of their actual friends but seemed to bump into anyone Dean had ever made a good impression on. Every single one of the conversations featured his shirt which made Seamus laugh, the more it was mentioned the harder he laughed.

Dean collapsed on his bed, immediately being licked by his cat. Seamus headed to his own bed watching the very emotional reunion. Dean gazed at his best friend with a small smile as he was stretched out across his bed on his side.

"Seamus..."

"Yes Dean"

"Happy birthday?"

...

"Why didn't you tell me?"

"You had better and more important things to think about"

"I'm sorry. Look we will celebrate tonight! It might not be the best celebration but we can get everyone maybe even the girls and then-"

"Nah, I'd prefer not to celebrate. Let's just show everyone you're okay"

"Fine...but I will get you a present! You can't stop me"

Seamus smiled gratefully at his friend and then threw over his pillow. "Soft lad. Get changed so we can go"

"Changed? Why should I?"

Dean rolled his eyes and quickly switched out the joggers for a pair of jeans. When Seamus finally realised the shirt was there to stay they finally left to go meet their friends in the Great hall. When Seamus opened the door for Dean a wave of silence pushed through the room. The first-year Gryffindors all stared at Dean for a moment before they all got up and ran to him. Neville threw his arms around Dean so harshly they almost toppled but luckily Seamus had his hand on Dean's back. Parvati and Hermione hugged him also with Harry and Ron hanging back for their turn. Lavender went straight to Seamus asking him how he was and how he was such a good friend for staying with Dean. Her praise was generous but Seamus thought it was misplaced. He thanked her and smiled as the first years slowly walked down the hall back to their place at the end of the table. Padma joined the table sitting beside Seamus and Lavander. Poor Dean was questioned throughout lunch, he tried to downplay the event but Seamus didn't let him. He told them how he baited the Slytherins, how Dean wanted to back down, and how Dean defended Seamus without care for what was to happen to himself. Everyone was so proud of their classmate, some people commented about how 'Gryffindor' his act was.

After lunch, they all went out to the grass by the lake. Altogether there were about seven of them. It would have been more however Ronald, Harry and Hermione disappeared at some point. They all sat in the rare sun talking and gossiping, the others tired to remember all the theories that people had conjured.

One said that Seamus attacked the Slytherins first and Dean got hurt trying to separate the fight.

Another thought that Dean and Seamus attacked the Slytherins and then manipulated the situation so they were seen as victims.

Some painted the Slytherins as completely spiteful and animalistic.

Few were close to the actual events.

The subject was dropped soon after Dean's expression. Instead, they bounced between more bubbly subjects. Then it was time for dinner. All the questions had been answered so the topic of the fight was dropped. By the end of the day, Seamus had even forgotten it was his birthday. Dean, however, hadn't. Back at the dorm most of the boys stayed up, talking and joking. But Seamus retired to his bed, closing the curtains around his bed like a shield. Neville hid the box and card deep under his bed, both looking untouched which Seamus was thankful for. Once the parcels were removed from the dust-coated floor from under his bed he placed them in front of him. It was as if his head and head were in completely different places, his mind and thoughts were clear of worry or panic but his heart was beating like it was being powered solely on adrenaline.

He started with the letter, which was written on normal human paper, slide into an envelope and addressed as if a postman will pick it up. Not an owl.

To my darling boy,

This time eleven years ago God blessed me with a miracle, every day of your life you only grew more firey. It brings me and your father great pain that we are separated from you at such a time in your life however your destiny lies within that school. Who are we to disagree with the Lord's plan? Still, it is a shame.

We are excited to have you back home for Christmas. The whole family are, your aunt and cousin will be visiting for they are facing some hardships so faith around them must be strong in order for them to overcome this. They all wish you a happy birthday. It's still hard to believe that you are 12 years old! It feels like only a short time ago I was changing your nappy or showing you the magic we have both been gifted with for the first time.

I wish you luck during your last few weeks at school until we are once again under the same roof. Do us proud and don't forget to pray for your aunt and cousin.

Lots of love and prayers,
Your mother

P:S Your father here. Happy birthday Shay, can't wait to hear about your life at that boarding school, your friends and all that magic you have been doing. Hope you enjoy your presents.

Seamus smiled down at the paper happy he wasn't forgotten, it was a shame about his aunt. Strange how his mother bounced around the situation as opposed to actually saying the issue. Perhaps it was sinful, against God.

Inside the battered brown box was an assortment of gifts. He could easily separate the gifts into two piles, one from his mother and another from his father. He got a pale blue hoodie that was a few sizes too large (from his father), he got a thin silver cross necklace (from his mother), he got a bag of assorted sweets and chocolate (from his father), a new poster of the Irish quidditch team was also in there (from his mother) and last but not least he got one of his fathers favourites hoodie. It was quite large and had a deep green colour. The last one touched Seamus's heart, his father wanted a piece of himself where Seamus was, not only as a reminder of what an awesome dad he had but also as support to his young son who had already spent countless long weeks far away from home.

Seamus put all the items back in the box, placing them on the floor closest to the wall and not the others in the room. By the time the young Gryffindor had opened his gifts and gone through the pack of cards that was squished to the side of the box. It was from family, friends of the family and distant relatives that only stayed in contact through birthday and Christmas cards. He was touched that so he received so many cards even if they were thoughtless. He was even more touched when notes of money fell out. He received £20, 20 knuts and 3 sickles.

Seamus didn't resurface that night so the other boys left him to himself. Except later in the evening when darkness had consumed the dorm. The thick red curtain was pulled slightly creating a slight opening.

"Hello?" A faint whisper from Dean flew through the opening.

"Hi Hi!" Seamus sat up, crossing his legs to make more room for his friend.

"A birthday, isn't a birthday without a cake" Dean climbed into the bed pulling out a cake he had hidden behind his back. It was a small cupcake with the Irish quidditch teams logo decorated on the top, it also had a small plain white candle that dug deep into the frosting. The smile on Dean's face spread wide on his face, gleaming with pride and happiness.

"Did the house elves actually make a singular cupcake?"

"Course not, I baked a whole batch but decorated the others differently and gifted back to them to thank them for teaching me the human way"

Seamus looked at his friend a little envious. Being good and kind came so naturally to him, it was a default. In fact, Seamus had never once seen Dean spiteful or even enraged. Even after he was attacked and hospitalised overnight, the three Slytherins stood only a few steps away from him yet he didn't flinch.

The flame from the candle lit up the entire box they sat inside. Seamus could see the excitement that buzzed from the young boy. Before it burned for too long Seamus leaned forward and blew it out, leaving them in darkness. Dean muttered a spell and the end of his wand shone brightly. The older boy dug into his cupcake and in a matter of seconds, the majority of it was consumed. Dean stared in shock before laughing, Seamus had to tightly cover his friend's mouth to silence his hysteria so the others wouldn't wake.

He offered up the second half of his cupcake to his friend, insisting he was feeling a little sick. Dean, with a lot of encouragement, accepted this offer. They spent most of the night talking about Ireland, more specifically the farm Seamus had grown up in. Seamus went on for ages, explaining how amazing it was growing up surrounded by fields and animals but also how isolated he was this way. The conversation was stunted when Dean accidentally allowed himself to yawn.

"It's getting late, I best go back...happy birthday Seamus"

"Dean...I'm sorry. I was the one who baited the Slytherins, you told us to stop but we didn't and you were the one who suffered for it. It's cruel and unfair and I'm so sorry. I haven't been able to stop thinking about this since yesterday, as soon as your head hit the ground I-"

"Shut up Seamus, please. You are not to blame. Nothing you said to the Slytherins would have calmed their temper. They were out for blood and funnily enough they got it. In no way do I want you to think, not even for a moment, that this is at all your fault"

"Yeah but-"

"No. I don't wanna hear it. No guilt Seamus, it wasn't your fault"

Seamus slapped his mouth shut and watched as his friend slowly dragged himself to his own bed. It was only when Dean settled in his bed that Seamus laid back down pulling his pillow into his arm and diving his head into it. The nightmare that was the last 24 hours was now a hazy memory for Seamus but for Dean, it was a memory shown through the scar that branched out from the centre of his chest.

Chapter Text

Sunday, 22nd December 1991

The train didn't leave until 11 AM but the chaos in the dorm started long before that. Neville packed the night before however had to repack with a checking list made by Dean only to find out he missed a huge portion of his clothes. Dean was used to getting up before everyone so started his packing at 6 AM. Seamus fell out of his bed at around 7:30 but it took him a while to get actively moving. Seamus seemed to keep lots there, packing only a few pieces of half-finished homework and some clothes. Dean packed most of his work, his clothes, his sketchpad and finally his cat. Rush was jumping around all morning, crashed with Ron then was up again half an hour later messing up everyone's suitcases. Harry wasn't packing and told the boys he wouldn't give up Hogwarts feasts for the scraps he got at home. Ron's older brother worked in Romania so his parents are going to him for the holidays. Sadly with a family of that size, it would have been very expensive so it was just them. Dean was going home to London where his sisters were waiting to bombard him with questions. Seamus was going home to deal with his annoying cousin and the aunt that was going through some difficult times. Whatever that might be. Neville was going back home to his nan, with no mention of any parents. Everyone was curious but no one had the stomach to ask. Seamus did but Dean would kick him anytime he hinted at the question.

By 8:30 everyone took a break to head down to the last half hour of breakfast. Ronald was carried all the way to the great hall by the pack of his friends and the only thing that woke him from the coma-like sleep he was in was the intoxicating smell of the school's send-off meal. The redhead ran to the hall shoving past a few other students resulting in Dean and Harry walking around apologising. The boys filled in the front of the Gryffindor table where Hermione called over her besties as she surrounded herself with books. While they whispered mysteriously Seamus stuffed his face and Neville looked glumly at his food.

"How you feeling Neville?" Dean smiled softly at Neville while grabbing more toast and stacking them high on his plate.

"I just... I've gotten so used to this place and my nans gonna expect me to have learned so many new spells and basically be an amazing wizard but I have literally only perfected a handful of spells and am barely getting through most subjects and i-" As soon as Neville got started it seemed as if he couldn't stop, he was talking so fast strangers seemed to notice how strange it all was.

Seamus was the one who interrupted the word vomit that Neville was struggling with. "Mate, take a moment to breathe. Look I'm sure your nan will look past all that when you tell her you've made a shit ton of friends yeah? You got me and Thomas here. Harry and Ron are part-timers. You and Hermione seem pretty chill too. Anytime she mentions classes or spells just tell her about lessons with us and how Hogwarts is amazing"

For a moment Dean and Neville stared at Seamus, making the poor boy visibly uncomfortable. Their confusion quickly turned into smiles, Dean, slapped his hand onto Seamus's shoulder and laughed. "Are you secretly a genius?"

Neville's face lit up brightly and nodded violently "Yeah. Yeah, that's good! But Dean you didn't have to fuel his ego-"

Seamus smirked and crossed his arms "Too late. I'm superior and now I have proof"

"Whoops"

The rest of breakfast was pleasant enough but they soon found themselves back in the dorm. Harry pulled Seamus to the side for a moment and while Seamus was packing he threw his chest set over to Harry's bed and continued like normal. With their combined help and focus, they were ready to go. But with only twenty minutes to go. The pack of boys raced through the castle and to the carriages where they grabbed the last one. McGonagall's face was riddled with disappointment but Snape almost laughed at them. The carriages were vintage, black metal pulled by magic. Dean guessed anyways. He didn't know much about them. In fact, all he knew was that they weren't being pulled by anything visible. The travel to the train wasn't too long, the forest surrounding the school was beautiful. It had a sense of mystery and darkness that clearly connected to Seamus but frightened Neville. Trees towered over the group of Gryffindors, a small light breeze whistled throughout the forest and the irritating bumps made them all fly up from their seats and land harshly on their asses.

The train was a much better ride. The tracks were smooth and the booth was warm, cosy and private. Rush was let loose from his cage just for him to curl up on Dean's lap. Hissing at him violently if he even breathed too harshly. Seamus and Neville thought it was hilarious and would coddle the kitten anytime he looked cute.

"So guys. What are the Christmas plans?"

"I'm just gonna have a quiet one with me, nan."

"Yeah, I've got me aunt and cousin joining us. Absolute nightmares both of them. Me cousin shows off every aspect of his life and me aunt thinks she's been cursed by satan. What about you Thomas?"

"I finally get to see my sisters after...God, I don't even know. Ages ago"

"What are they like? Your sisters?"

"Yeah, I spent most of my childhood hanging out with sheep"

"They are alright, the twins are very annoying but in a sweet way. I swear one-off thems demonic"

The boys laughed and mostly joked about how awful their families were while holding them close to their hearts. Every single one of them was excited to go home, see their family and be work free for two weeks. By the time they reached London all the boys had their eyes glued to the window trying to see their families. As soon as the train stopped it began to shake violently from the grand masses of students all rushing to get on the platform to hug their parents tightly. Dean and the other two Gryffindors stayed together, shuffling through the tightly packed crowd of individuals. The first parental figure they found was Neville's grandmother who was glaring at someone who had pushed her too hard.

"Nan!" Neville ran up to the old woman and tightly hugged her, the woman tapped his shoulder after a minute and studied the boy that stood before him.

"Come on then child I don't have all day" She took his arm but stopped the minute her eyes landed on Dean and Seamus who stood close behind him. It felt as if the women were judging the boys harshly, digging deep into their souls and seeing straight through them. But after a moment she cracked a small but stern smile. "Are these your little friends?"

Neville made an embarrassed face, his cheeks went a shade of pink the boys had never seen before on a person. "Dean and Seamus, we share a dorm too"

Slowly the older woman shuffled to the two friends and placed a delicate hand on each of their shoulders. "Enjoy the Christmas break you two" was all she said before she took hold of Neville and disappeared into the crowd. They could see how the others on the platform moved clear out of their way as they made their exit. It seemed as if the woman was more grateful than she expressed, and had more to say but didn't. Of course, the boys brushed it off and explored the platform for what seemed like hours to find Dean's parents.

His mother was sitting on top of her husband's shoulders in a light purple suit and blinding white shirt. Ian wasn't the tallest of the men on the platform so it took a while for the boys to finally see what Pam was sitting on. The both of them were in sync at the same time they saw their child and Ian didn't hesitate to run to him. Pam was clinging to her husband's head for dear life. Ian wrapped his arms around Dean and once his mother was safely on ground level so did she. Dean was choking for air when they finally released him. Looking around his best friend was nowhere to be found. Strange.

"You can't go back! We won't let you!"

"Shut up Ian. Let the boy enjoy being home without being bombarded with guilt"

"Just telling the boy we love him...have a heart"

Ian pouted at his wife making Dean laugh and cringe in disgust. Walking through the wall at the platform was a stranger feeling as before for this time he wasn't pumped with adrenaline. His head was clear and even with everything he had already seen this year, it felt so abnormal to voluntarily walk into a wall. The drive home felt too fast, Dean couldn't stop the words spill out of his mouth. Telling them all about his lessons and the teachers, in a lot more detail than he could've dreamt of writing in his letters. He asked about his sisters, their work, and how life, in general, was now their favourite child and wasn't a permanent fixture.

Hogwarts was an escape, an escape from the real world and a leap into fantasy land. Where he could move things with a wave of a stick. Where he could never be apart from his friends. Where he could eat as much as he wanted and what he wanted. Where he was taught to change matter and brew potions in the oldest castle in Scotland. A home away from home where anything was possible.

London was different. It was busy, cold, filled with rubbish, bad street music and Dean's family. His home was familiar, the scent was his, the irritating sounds of his homemade creaking and whistling against the winds. It was his comfort place, where he felt safe and somewhere he could lean on. He was protected. He was loved. Through the busy streets, he felt only peace. A home of only love, protection and limits.

Outside his house, the car stopped but no one moved. Dean tried his door but nothing. His parents shared a look and then turned back to their son.

"Your sisters haven't been told about the whole magic bit." His father started to explain to his son.

"We wanted you to be there when we explain it all to them. They need to hear it from you. You can decide when and how you tell them, we will support and help you in any way we can."

Dean silently nodded and they all climbed out of the car with Ian slinging Dean's bag over his shoulder. With only one step from the car, Dean was practically tackled into a hug by the oldest daughter.

"Lizzie!"

"Dean I can't believe you! You go away to boarding school with nothing but a poncy letter!"

"Language young lady or I'll call your dad back," Pam warned before chasing after her husband.

The two young people laughed and separated from the hug. The older girl looked the boy up and down with a small and a little bit gloomy smile.

"You've grown so much, I haven't seen you since before the holidays"

"I know. The timing of it all sucked but it was too good to pass on. How's year 11 going?"

"My teachers are out for blood, I swear."

"I think teachers in Scotland got the same memo."

"Awwww is like hard for the littlest Thomas?" Elizabeth Thomas reached out to scruffle Dean's hair while dragging him inside the house just to get tackled by one half of a double act. The brighter twin.

Her arms were twisted around her brother's neck tightly, leaving Dean breathless until she was kind enough to let go and drag him inside by his arm.

"MAPLE HE'S HERE! HE IS HOMEEEE. COME AND SAY HI" Donna's screech tore through the house, making the glass windows vibrate and walls tremble. The second twin didn't give a sign of life, instead, silence calmed the house.

Dean couldn't unpack until he had properly answered every question the interested parties had. They all sat in the living room, in front of the roaring fire that pushed away England's bitter temperatures. All his bags were still parked by the front door. Untouched. Both his older sister sat by his side, trapping him in between them. His parents were on the chair's either side only adding to the imprisonment. Not exactly imprisonment, it was actually quite a warm feeling. To finally be surrounded by family. Even if it did sound like he was in an interrogation.

"Did you make friends?"

"You join the football team?"

"Do they even have a football team?"

"What's it like in Scotland?

"How's that little Irish kid? You said you guys became friends right?"

The questions seemed limitless. Christ, they even asked what the school menu was like. At some point, the other twin, maple, sat on the floor with her head between Donna and Dean. Not a word was said. She just sat quietly and read. The questions soon came to a stop once the curriculum was mentioned. It was a strange moment where both the adults shared a look they thought the kids couldn't read, as if they were blind. Dean shifted awkwardly. Maple closed her book and looked up, finally taking an interest in the awkwardness.

He didn't want a double life. To spend his holidays jumping around questions. To not be able to tell his sisters about his accomplishments. Or even his failures. Once he started the words just poured out, and he spilled all about his new and wonderful world however the girls beside him stared in disbelief and concern. Maple shrugged, taking the book back into her lap and scanning through the words. Pam and Ian helped explain to the girls how this came about while Dean dug around his bag trying to find anything to prove it. Not being able to do magic outside of school was proven to be quite difficult.

Seamus. Proven once again a hero. He had been given a bunch of sweets from his father, in that assortment Seamus dug out a few magical sweets. In a small see-through container was 'Mr Spindle's Lick "o" Rish Spiders'. They were similar to chocolate frogs, bewitched to behave like the creature they were shaped to be. Except for liquorice and not chocolate. Proudly Dean placed the box on the coffee table.

Ian bolted. Straight out of the room and from the sounds of it, he found refuge in his bedroom. Pam excused herself after him cackling up the stairs and into the bedroom. The two girls stared while Maple snatched it up, stared at it fascinated.

"What in the fu-"

"HELL! What the hell Dean!"

"Can I keep it?"

"There sweets Maple, you can eat them if you want"

The questions that came before were nothing to the ones that followed. Maple had the most bizarre. Elizabeth was mostly asking about safety and comfort. Donna just went off. Asked as many as she could as fast as she could.

Night followed shortly after. Dean still had to unpack. When he was finally engulfed in his warm blanket, in his own room the exhaustion was so overwhelming he instantly drifted off. Dreaming of life back at Hogwarts, surrounded by his friends, learning things he only imagined as a child.

Letters were exchanged between the two boys throughout the first few days of the holidays.

'Dean,

How's ya family doing? I mean like your sisters and that. They must've been excited to finally see you.

My mum driving me up the walls mate. Nightmare. My aunt hasn't stopped fucking crying since she's been here and my cousin has truly made himself at home. Helped himself to anything in my room apparently.

Anyways, Neville sends his best and so does my dad.

Seamus.

P.S the owl won't return without a reply since you don't have one. He'll eat quite literally anything. Also, he'll need water.'

'Dear Seamus,

My sisters went mental, at least the majority of them. Had to tell them about the whole magic bit but those spiders helped. They were really excited about it. A little shocked actually. I'm sorry to hear about your family sounds chaotic. I'm sure it'll make Christmas better though. The more the merrier and all that. Thought having some people there would help your transition from Hogwarts to home.

Your owl was very polite. Gave her some food and water, and my sister obsessed with her. It's brilliant how intelligent they are though. Still don't fully understand how they can track people down though, like addresses and whatnot.

Wish you the best in your house of horrors,

from Dean'

'Dean

Can't imagine having to explain the wizarding world. It's such a mess I wouldn't know where to start. At least it is all sorted out now. You can enjoy Christmas in peace. I'm glad those spiders were put to good use. Honestly think you'd open the box and lose them all. I've done it so many times, I must've lost gallons on them. Yes my house will be full but it won't be warm, everyone's annoying. At least at Hogwarts, there are hundreds of places to hide or I can spend most of my days annoying you. Doing that in a letter has shown to be impossible. I'm glad you like her, kept her at home for the beginning of term but might bring her down after this break. Her name is Orla, she loves attention so don't hide her away from your family. She might nip if you don't give her enough attention. Nasty tosser sometimes. I always thought it was so cool how owls can do that.

How've you been? Done much? I know it's only been a couple of days but you seem to always have at least something to do. I know you are not doing homework, you completed it all and made sure we all knew so thank you.

From your favourite friend, Seamus'

'To my second favourite friend Seamus,

Orla and I have truly connected. Our friendship seems to have blossomed. She is my number one. My sisters and my father all thought she was amazing and even tried to teach her some tricks like she was a dog. It was brilliant. She's been fed and watered. Even played with my cat. That was truly a sight.

Haven't done too much. Caught up with my sisters, and we all went out to dinner at my dad's restaurant tonight. We all got dressed up, super fancy. Suits and the lot. My mum got pissed and couldn't stop laughing which set everyone else off. I played footy with my friends again, they haven't changed at all. Turns out I'm still amazing at football.

What have you been doing? I wanna say doing all your homework but I have a strange feeling you haven't even taken it out of your bag yet.

From the best football player in London, Dean'

'To Backstabber Deab Thomas,

Orla? Really? Replaced by a bird isn't the best feeling but neither is being home alone on Christmas eve. My aunt is in hospital. Everyone has gone with her but I stayed. What a merry Christmas it shall be. Literally, the house is dead silent. I've got the neighbour babysitting me, mate she's about 80 years old and I'm 100% sure she's been asleep the entire time. So Christmas is cancelled. Not sure whether that's a good thing or a bad thing, to be honest.

Your head is too big to be healthy so I'll leave it at this.

From Seamus, the better quidditch player'

Tuesday, 24th December 1991

Dean was graced by this letter around 6 AM that morning. The owl sat quietly outside waiting for Dean to wake. It took only five minutes for Dean to process how miserable the situation was. He ran to his parents, filling them in as they glared harshly at the young boy trying to keep their eyes open. Dean wrote back very quickly, his letter asked his Seamus wanted to spend Christmas in London with his family. If so write his mother's number so they can communicate without the complication of the owl-style mail. With Caffeine inside their system, Pam and Ian were both very much on board with the idea of having Seamus stay with them over Christmas as opposed to staying with an old lady. Seamus sent back a letter only an hour after mostly thanking Dean, stating he had already started to pack.

The number was on the back of the paper.

Dean was shut out of the room when his parents called, as were the girls but they weren't bothered. They didn't know much about what was happening. They didn't care. Dean heard yelling. Not from his parents. Seamus's mum. Screaming so loud Dean could hear it from another room. His parents never raised their voices, he could hear their annoyingly calm tone but the screaming stopped after a while. Shortly after Pam walked out of the room smiling at her son.

"We are going to Diagon Alley, that little rustic pub is where they will be meeting us. Not sure how they will get there so fast, to be honest...anyways BYE GIRLS"

Dean had never run out the door that fast in all his life, it felt like a dream. A dream that is so good you know it is fake but you pray to god it is real. The drive felt longer than before. Clearer though. The last time was fuzzier with his excitement. The second time in this pub was better than the first, Seamus was sitting quietly on a table with a small glass of what looked like coke. For the first time in a very long time, Seamus was quiet, still even. Next to him was a white-haired lady that was slouched over a wine glass. The timid lady lifted her head a few moments after Seamus stood so hard his chair flew backwards. The smile. That fucking smile. Basically lit up every corner of that grimy pub. By his feet slouched a very packed backpack, next to his worn-out shoes that colour was faded and replaced with a thick layer of mud. His jeans were a size too big, bunching up a little by his ankles. The shirt was dark green. Was the only thing about his outfit that was almost the right size. Mud footprints tracked all through the pub and all the way to Dean and his mother.

While the ghost-like woman spoke to Pam, exchanging formalities and all that. Dean and Seamus stood by the door of the pub, waiting on their tippy toes to bolt to the car. Both of the young wizards wore smiles that could bring light to the whole world. The old woman walked into the fireplace and went up in green flames. The demonic fire only lasted a few seconds before the fireplace was empty of both flames and women. Pam almost ran back to the car with both the boys chasing after her. She asked Seamus all the normal adult questions.

"So how is your aunt doing?"

"There's a good chance she'll be fine"

"And how's your family? This must be very stressful"

"Yeah, they are all very nervous, haven't left the hospital since she was committed...Thank you for letting me stay. I know it's more of a family holiday"

"Don't be silly. You made such a good impression the last time we met there was no way in hell I was gonna leave you home alone for Christmas."

With a light laugh and about 10 more minutes, they were back to a now very awake house. Seamus dumped his bag by the door and was welcomed by a very happy Ian.

"Welcome welcome! We have some sausage rolls in the kitchen in case you want lunch."

He slide his arm around his wife's waist and kissed her cheek. Both the young wizards cringed but smiled. It was sweet, and a little heartwarming to see how in love this pair was. Definitely revolting to Dean. Ian, again, pipped up.

"So we don't have a spare room but we do have a pullout couch?"

Seamus and Dean shared a look and smiled.

"That's alright Dad. He can stay in my room. If it's alright with you two we'll probs go park?"

"Yeah, that's okay. Actually your sisters' about to go too"

"Donna?"

"It's certainly not Maple is it?"

Seamus threw his bag on Dean's bed and the both of them ran into Donna on the way out. Wearing some bright blue leggings and a hot pink shirt with her hair thrown up in a ponytail. She and Seamus wouldn't stop yammering on the way, the five-minute walk turned into a hurricane of chaos. How can two people talk too much? And how can they have so much energy? Between them, they could power a whole city. She ran off before Dean saw his friends, they were at the bottom of the field playing a rather messy game of footy.

Seamus didn't play but he made a fabulous cheerleader. Screaming at people to start hurrying up or walking it off. He was especially rude to Dean who just laughed it off, the others threw up their middle fingers or swore at him. They only got more enraged once they saw it had no effect on him. It was as if all the anger just phased past him. After a few hours of Dean running around and Seamus screeching like a madman they decided to pack it in and head home. Immediately after walking through the door, they heard a loud crash, both running into the living room they heard an echo of cries and shouting. All coming from the TV. Ian, Pam and the girls were curled up on the couch's leaving only one armchair open. They ran but sadly only one ended up with the chair. Dean had to sit by his friend's leg. They watched half of a Christmas movie then they decided, after an hour of arguing, to put on Elf because Seamus had never seen it before. Dean was sadly reminded of how cringy most of the scenes were.

Baking was how they spent their evening after they wafted down some dinner. Ian was with the two boys in the kitchen whereas the girls were in an intense game of monopoly. Every two minutes they would hear shouting, mostly threats. Ian was teaching the boys to make gingerbread cookies, to form a huge gingerbread house. Dean accidentally got some flour on Seamus's sleeve. Seamus threw a small handful at Dean which also got onto Ian. War was declared and Pam had to bang on the door just to make them stop. The cookies were baking as they changed and Seamus played chess against Ian to pass time as it cooled down enough for them to decorate. Seamus lost gracefully, and Ian was happy enough to have a decent opponent to play against.

"Where did you learn to play chess? You are better than Pam. Mind you, that's not difficult"

"Me Grandad and father used to play since I was a baby. Every week we would visit and they would play. Watched until I was old enough to be taught. Brutal players they were."

"Lucky though. Chess isn't as popular as it once was"

"No, it is not."

Decorating the gingerbread house wasn't the difficult part. Making the house stand took longer than making the biscuit part of it did. Ridiculous how hard it was but they had fun. Ian got started on some brownies while they tried to figure it out. Once the brownies were baked they had finished. The sweet house was lathered in sticky white icing, with jellybeans and other sweets patterned unevenly all over the house. It wasn't the most attractive gingerbread house ever made but it put a smile on everyone's face. A tradition for the Thomas family was to leave shortbread and brandy for 'Santa' which everyone knew was for Pam and Ian and leave a Carrot outside for Santa's Reindeer. With all that out of the way, the boys headed upstairs. To 'sleep'.

"My room is a little...messy."

Dean opened the door to show a fairly large room. The walls were soft blue with one wall filled with black and white pictures. Pictures of his family, his friends, him at school, his football team, and places he'd been. In the corner in front of the window was a messy desk which had blotches of paint coating it, hundreds of pens, pencils and charcoal. To the side were multiple packs of plain paper sheets. Shelves filled the plain wall, two filled with books, the top one filled with old sketchbooks. Much like the one Dean was using now. His bed was a double and centred against the wall, the chair beside it couldn't be seen for the clothes on it were piled too high. The window stretched across the wall in front of the desk with various plants on the windowsill. Being bathed in sunlight. Probably too much sun.

"Your room is so cool! I thought you liked drawing but I didn't realise how into it you really are"

"It's more relaxing than football. Plus I'm just so fabulous at it"

"Yeah yeah course"

While Seamus was snooping through the room Dean changed into his Pyjamas. He closed the door but left the curtains open. Seamus changed, throwing his clothes by his bag in the corner.

"Want me to close the blinds or?"

"Nah leave them open"

"Scared of the dark?"

"Course not. Just don't like the thought of the room being boxed off...I dunno" Dean shrugged it off and cuddled in his blanket.

Seamus stared out of the window for a bit. Not just a quick look at the view. He stood for a good while, concerning actually. Dean sat up a little, looking his way.

"You alright?"

"Yeah just...never spent Christmas away from home... never even had a sleepover" The Irish lad chuckled and climbed into the bed, making the once warm bed frozen to the touch.

"Your parents are coming tomorrow right? Christmas is about family not where you do it. Tomorrow will be so amazing you'll wish to have Christmas here every year"

"To be honest, it's already been pretty amazing. Thank you. Spending Christmas with that daft old bat would've been the worse"

"No problem. Wanted to hang out anyways. What better time than one with a guaranteed roast"

After that the night was quiet. They had small amounts of lights from the extravagant city of London and the soft sounds of birds singing from outside. The two boys slept soundly. Ish.

Wednesday, 25th December 1991

A thick coat of snow coated the ground, roofs and everything in between. The pure white blanket drowned all the warmth from the air. Dean's face lit up when he saw it leaning against the windowsill and watched early morning dog walkers introducing their dogs to the snow. It was heartwarming. Kept him entertained until he heard a soft knocking on the door. Without waking Seamus he snuck over to the door and opened it slightly, just enough to see his parents with the biggest smiles.

"Morning sweetie. We have your stockings here, got a bit drunk last night and did it this morning" His mother pushed open the door a little to kiss him on the head lightly. As she stepped away Ian nudged past her and ruffled his hair, he had both the stocking and passed them over.

"We'll see you downstairs when you're both ready"

"You had him a stocking?"

"Course we did! How could we not?" Ian laughed quietly, they were disrupted by a loud groan from Seamus and quickly the two adults disappeared.

Dean waited a few minutes until he impatiently ripped the blanket off his friend and jumped beside him.

"MERRY CHRISTMAS!"

Seamus jumped violently and nearly out the bed if Dean wasn't fast enough to grab his arm. Which, of course, he was. Dean didn't let go until Seamus was fully awake.

"Jesus christ Dean...how early is it?" The half-awake, half-wizard child rubbed his eyes and looked outside. "Is that snow?"

Dean jumped Seamus's stocking into his lap and did the same with his. For the next half hour, they were stuffing their faces with an assortment of homemade cookies and cakes. Playing with cheap toys, tricks and puzzles. There was also a fiver each stuffed at the bottom of the red socks.

Downstairs they had found everyone in the kitchen, most had coffee but the youngest kids just had juice. Dean and Seamus were way too full of sweets to eat breakfast just yet. Dean fetched them both a glass of water. Everyone was buzzing to go open the presents but no one wanted to voice it, so for a few awkward seconds, they stood in the kitchen nursing their drinks. Ian almost knocked over half his kids racing into the living room with his immature wife and children chasing after him. The majority of the morning was Dean passing around presents from under the tree, watching the lucky person open them and express their gratitude and thanks. This cycle went on until the hundreds of presents from under the were unwrapped and scattered in piled over the room. Even Seamus got a good few presents. Mostly sweets, cakes, some magazines and even a few candles made both him and Dean erupt into laughter which resulted in everyone else freezing up in confusion. After having refilled the hot drinks and bundling everyone up in the living room a strong and very long list of the Christmas movies they would watch throughout the day. About four days' worth of movies. During the second movie, a loud knock was made from the door which made Seamus shoot up.

He was the first to the door followed by Ian and Dean. Standing outside was a tall man in his late thirties, with short black hair and dark eyes. His complexion was as pale as the snow and he had dark freckles painted all over his arms. He was lanky, wearing some jeans and a purple polo. Seamus was just staring. As if he was waiting, for something, for more. But from the expression, his father was giving. He was it. It was as if the young lad couldn't move but was snapped out of it when the stranger spoke.

"Look Shay, Your mother couldn't make it. She said-"

Dean watched Seamus's heart drop and shatter into a million pieces through the exterior of his neutral face. Dean could feel the trembling, whether it be out of sadness or out of anger. It was like he was about to explode. He managed it perfectly though, before his father had finished the young boy calmly walked himself upstairs. Ian welcomed his guest with a smile, offering him a hot drink along with one of the biscuits laid out on the coffee table. Before Dean could observe the stranger a little more he went up to join his friend. Seamus was pacing around Dean's room while his friend silently sat on his own bed. For a few minutes, Seamus ignored him, trying to calm the bubbling anger that rose in him.

"What are you doing just sitting there?!"

"Waiting until you're ready to talk or go down or whatever it is you need to do"

A few more minutes until the firey boy finally piped up again.

"One day of the year. The only day we need her. Only day she's obliged to even pop around for a few minutes to just spend some time with her son. The son she..."

Just as he was about to say something, Dean was cut off and he closed himself off once again. Dean waited a few more minutes until Seamus sat on the floor leaning against the wall. His knees were up with his head buried between them. Dean couldn't see if he was crying or not but imagined he still needed some time.

"Mate we can stay up here as long as you want and I'm not sure what you're feeling exactly towards your mother but your father is downstairs with a bag filled with presents just for you. You've got my entire family who will annoy you just as much as yours would...plus I don't know the ending to that movie"

Seamus took a while before his head lifted to show his red puffy eyes but his god-awful smile.

"The father finds out Santa is real and they promise to keep it a secret"

"You little-"

They chased each other down the stairs, pushing, punching and falling into each other. They ended up in the kitchen. The large kitchen was lit up through the double doors which consisted mainly of glass letting in the dull light of the winter morning. Ian and Seamus's father, who Dean had learnt was called Darren, were in some ridiculously tall chef hats that stretched all the way to the ceiling. Both men were working on the food with the radio playing Mariah Carey. Watching them try to dance made the boys laugh harder than they had before. As soon as the laughter started the men stopped their dancing and tried to act like they didn't even know the radio was on. Darren went and hugged his son, they chatted for a little bit outside in the snow while Dean filled in as master chef.

The rest of the evening was mostly the men locked in the kitchen playing loud Christmas music, singing along as if they were in a concert. The ladies were faffing around in the living room, unboxing all the things they had got. It sounded as if they had the TV but the music drowned out all the noise. It was as if all the anger from Seamus and the regret from Darren just flew up and out of the chimney. The house was full, not just of people but of joy. Family and friends celebrate what they have, showing their love and just generally chilling out. After spending some actual time with Darren, Dean realised what a cool bloke he was. At first, he was quiet but turns out he knows every word of Santa Baby by Eartha Kitt even with a little dance routine. It was brilliant. Seamus looked shocked and proud.

Dinner time was pure chaos. Seamus thrived obviously along with Ian. It was like any problem they were given just disappeared into dust and was never given a second thought. Dean and Darren however were crushed under the pressures but with beautiful smiles on their faces. While serving in the kitchen was a crash zone, half the food being served by Dean ended up on the floor. Eventually, every one of the eight plates was packed filled with luxurious food made by a chef and a very talented farmer apparently. The leftovers were put on some posh bowls and plates only used for special occasions. Or when someone you don't like comes around. They used to be kept in the cellar but Pam got them out too much when her colleagues came over for Tea.

The dinner table was filled to the point everyone was budged up together, and could barely even move. With the drinks, food and Christmas crackers there was not a single space to put anything else. Everyone dug in. It was the only proper food they had had all day, most of them had been eating junk food since they had woken. Dinner alone took about two hours, dessert about one. Darren and Seamus started getting ready to go around 11 PM against everyone's wishes, even Maple wanted the little wizard boy to stay. But sadly Seamus's mother wanted them home, Ian was the only one who wasn't drunk enough to fall when walking a few steps so he was voted to drive them. Seamus and Dean were left by the door.

"You got yourself a nice gaff here, might need to visit more often"

"Visit whenever. it'll be easier than translating your handwriting"

"Oi! My handwriting is perfect. Maybe your standards are too high"

"Maybe yours is too low"

...

"Don't stop writing though"

"I'll send me bird as soon as I'm home"

They shared a small hug and Dean waved goodbye as the car drove off into the darkness of the night. Making a clear trail out of snow. What a day. Dean was tucked into bed only five minutes after that.

A letter came for him only an hour later.

Chapter Text

1:23 Thursday, 26th December 1991

'Morning Dean,

Or it would probably be by the time this reaches you. Just got in, my mum is not home but Fergus is. He says his mum is doing a lot better but can't come home till after new Years. My dad is steaming when we got home, he kept going on about how great you lot are and how I'm gonna have a great time in school. We couldn't get him up the stairs so he's on the sofa at the moment.

Thank you for putting up with me over Christmas. My mum is still sour about it, I could tell from the way she was on our way home. Best go to bed before my handwriting becomes really unreadable.

Goodnight.

From Seamus'

6:42 Thursday, 26th December 1991

'Morning Seamus,

I'm glad your aunt is okay. Awful timing though, all of this. At least you have some people staying around for a bit.

To be honest my mum was the same. Absolutely steaming, My dad carried her up when he got home. Heard him struggling from my room. Sound like she tried to throw herself back down for being a burden.

How did you get here and there so fast? I meant to ask yesterday but completely forgot. Is there some sort of magical portal? I can't believe I just had to ask that. Anyways. You spoke to Neville during the holidays? Haven't heard from him at all really, wanna know how his holidays are.

From the best host ever'

12:56 Saturday, 28th December 1991

'To The irritant, I call a friend,

Why is your first thought a magical portal? How long you been at Hogwarts? It's like you've learnt nothing. Nah I came through the Floo network that connects to the Leaky Cauldron. You basically stand in an open fireplace with a handful of Floo powder, say where you wanna go, and then throw the powder at the ground. You literally go up in green flames and appear in the fireplace of the place you wanted to go. As long as you said it correctly and it has a fireplace connected to the floo network. It's actually the safest travel wizard kind has created, everything else has its fair share of risks, like the brooms.

Now this one will confuse you. My mum apparated us back to Ireland. We learn to do it in year 7. It is like a swirly teleporting thing, you think of where you wanna go and appear there. Obviously, it's very difficult to do. It's used a lot but you don't ever see it in Hogwarts because there are probs a spell keeping people from doing it. Stop randos doing it.

Neville sent a letter a few days ago. He said he was super busy. Apparently, his nan is redecorating because she's bored. He's had people in and out for days apart from Christmas of course. But yeah he seems fine, worrying about homework for some strange reason.

From Seamus'

8:09 Monday, 30th December 1991

'To the walking hazard,

Irritant?...appreciated.

At first, I thought you were having me on but as it turns out you guys really do use fireplaces to teleport places. I can't even imagine the apparating thing. Neville sent me a letter just after you did, saying the same thing. He's actually the one backing you about the Floo Network.

I am so bored. My sisters are always out with their friends. I've done all my homework and most of the guys that play footy are on some sorta team bonding trip. My dad had a day off, finally. He took me to the Hayward Gallery to look around all the art and that. We got dinner after in one of them posh places. Let me tell you, it was to die for honestly. My mum was so jealous when we got back.

What have you been up to? Anything to do over there?

From the perfect Gryffindor Van Gogh'

22:54 Wednesday, 1st January 1992

'To the posh kid,

You must have so much to do in London. You literally live in one of the most famous places in the world. I live in the middle of nowhere. I haven't done much at all really. Helped around the farm a little with Fergus. You know, keeping things going while the family is occupied. Saw my nan the other day. She only speaks Gaelic. It was the most stressful visit of my life.

My dad and mum have been back and forth, always leaving someone here and now my aunts home me and dad can go camping. The highest mountain in Ireland is Carrantuohills, so we gonna hike up, camp for the night then head back down in the morning. We have done this with different mountains and stuff before but because I am now a young wizard I am responsible enough to do this.

Plus my mum thinks if anything scary attacks up I'll probably just light it up anyways. Which I thought was rather rude but it's the only reason she is allowing it. She also thinks that it'll teach me how to be more of a man. My dad just wants to show me his new solar-charged torches. The priorities of these two.

How does it feel to be in a new year? Because I just don't think it was worth staying up till midnight for. Me and Fergus fell asleep waiting for it and woke up to the sound of fireworks on the TV. We were watching the London thing, not sure if you went to see it. Or maybe you heard it? Nah I'm sure you heard it. I thought I might have all the way down here.

From the heroic fighter of scary things'

17:49 Thursday, 2nd January 1992

'To explosion boy,

I didn't know you could speak Gaelic. Full of hidden talents aren't you Finnigan? The camping sounds cool, I bet you got loads of beautiful scenery over there. The only greenery we have is between shops and housing estates. Take a picture of the view. I'm sure your mum is right about you lighting up the danger, I'm just worried about all those rabbits rustling the bushes.

We went with our parents to watch the fireworks. I got separated from my parents but Elizabeth was with me and after the show, we walked home. It was so good but the people were so loud I could barely hear what the presenters said. The fireworks though were bloody brilliant. Honestly, my ears rang all night but it was completely worth it.

Good luck with your camping, I'm not doing much now. Except my mum wants to show me her work so I'll be off to her firm tomorrow. Wish me luck.

From Picasso'

11:32 Friday, 3rd January 1992

'To nerd,

Yes, Gaelic is used quite a bit down here actually, dead common. Camping was amazing except for the part I almost froze. That wasn't as fun. The sky was pretty clear too so we got to see the stars. I set no fires at all but my dad did and we had smores. They were to die for. I did take a picture, it should be with this letter. Actually, there should be two, the twat I call a father tried to photobomb one making us both fall so you have that one too.

We came across no scary things in the night but we did see some rabbits as you predicted. Coming down was a lot worse than up, we were half asleep and cold. Fergus made us tea when we got back down though, and took the mick out of us a bit but still. I bet the fireworks look so much better in person than on TV, you're well lucky. Except for the getting separated part. That sucks. How was your mum's firm? I imagine it's just a bunch of stuck-up know-it-alls in a building. Not including your wonderful mother of course. Hermine would've loved it.

Not too long with them now, we go back tomorrow. I'm all packed and actually a little excited to go back. I miss everyone, even Lavander. Plus we get to do magic over there too. Feasts practically every day. I would go on but I don't wanna get another piece of paper.

From The Abominable Snowman'

18:34 Friday, 3rd January 1992

'To the one at peace with nature,

I'm glad you had fun camping, you can thank me any time for the rabbits because that was definitely my fault. Not all lawyers are arrogant. Though the firm was a very stressful place to be. Everyone was rushing around and you could always hear yelling of some sort. Just got back actually. I spent most of my time in my mum's office or the cafe. They had amazing food.

Honestly, I am not too excited to get back, like obviously I love Hogwarts and all of you guys but being back in London back with my family feels so natural. I've missed everyone so much, my stupid sisters and all my footy friends. Mum and Dad especially. They've tried to spend time with me all week, taking me places and stuff. I'm just being silly, I'm dreading saying goodbye though. You probably won't be able to reply before we see each other on the platform so see you tomorrow.

From the survivor of the adult workplace'

Saturday, 4th January 1992

When Dean opened his eyes to the darkness that swallowed the room while a shiver went through his body. The thick blanket was tugged upwards trying to contain his warmth to stop the shivering. Nothing worse than waking up freezing. Slowly he dragged his feet from the comfort and into the bitterness of the cold, outside was pitch black, not a single light in sight except the limited light that illuminated from the moon. The house was still and almost seemed a little hollow. Fragile too, like if he was to do anything too harsh something would break.

With all this free time Dean decided to get some things over and done with. Using the bag he had taken there, the young student started to pack up his homework and anything really he needed to bring. For Christmas he received a set of charcoal pencils, throughout the week he has only had one chance to try them out and he fell in love. Bringing them was a must. Dean also packed himself various sweets, snacks and fizzy drinks to show the guys back at the dorms. He and his father had been buying some throughout the week, choosing some of the popular, bizarre and disturbing things they could find. Anything really they thought would be worthy.

The sun started to rise as the time marched on, and his father was the first was to wake. Exhausted and slow, the chef put together his things had a quick coffee and left. One of the twins, Maple, came down soon after and collected enough food to keep her going then she went back. Donna went out for a run dragging a very reluctant Elizabeth with her. His mother was the last to rise, she sat by the kitchen counter nursing a very large cup of coffee which Dean made as soon as he heard the floorboards squeak from her room.

That particular morning seemed to drag out a bit which Dean was not thankful for. Seeing every single member of his family go about their day, as usual, made him miss the routine. Miss how close they were. Miss how predictable and reliable they were. Perhaps he was looking at it wrong. Only picking and choosing to see the negatives. Hogwarts was an amazing school, filled with expectations of greatness and opportunities Dean couldn't have dreamt of. The dorm was constantly filled with laughter and joy, an escape from academics and a place of pure friendship and fun. Not to mention the magic of it all. How every fibre of the school was intertwined with magic, how the interworking of the school replied on it, how even just being there you could feel it buzzing around in the air. Some people seemed to body it entirely, whereas others had it hidden deep within.

For some the journey to the Platform was a long and tireless trip, luckily for some, it was only around 20 minutes by car. Dean had his Mother dropping him off having said goodbye to the rest of his family that morning. The car ride was filled with saddened silence drowned out by the thunderous music. The car came to a slow stop outside the station but for a moment they didn't move, Pam shuffled around to face her son with a bright smile.

"You excited?" She said it in a soft tone, reaching out to clasp her sons shoulder.

"Yeah course" Dean's voice was small, he couldn't even face her. Too scared that if he did, he wouldn't be able to choke back the tears he's holding back now.

It was clear as day she knew that, she cupped his head and dragged him closer, planting a kiss on his forehead. "Write to us as soon as you get there, okay?"

Dean nodded, not being able to find any words. They waited a moment before heading off to the Platform. It wasn't as busy as they'd seen it before, partly because of how early they'd arrived, partly because of the multitude of ways people could get to Hogwarts. The train is the easiest for most. But not all.

After a long and heartfelt hug Pam returned through the barriers and went to her car, Dean disappeared into a compartment; sitting by a window. Outside the glass was just a brick wall but Dean didn't want to deprive someone of their final glace at their parents before they disappeared for a few more months. The young boy curled up with his knees dragged up to his chest held by his arms. His chin rested between them and for a while he stared blankly at the seat opposite him, dozing off into a weak sleep.

The young boy wasn't sure exactly how long he had been in this state but he snapped out of it when Hermione helped herself to the seat opposite him. Quickly, Dean dropped his legs down and blinked himself awake. Hermione seemed a little dull, unlike her usually annoying perky self. With Dean being a lot more conscious than he once was, he smiled at his friend and softly greeted her, "Hey, How were your holidays?"

"Um...Yeah, they were good. I missed my parents a lot so...yeah" the young witch looked up at Dean with a weak smile. "What about you?"

"All good. Excited to be back? See Harry and Ron again? They must've had fun spending Christmas in a huge castle" That seemed to get her in a better mood. It was as if she was shocked into a good mood.

"You're right! I wanna catch up with them. And Lavander and Parvati. I heard that there will be a feast when we come back. Like a welcome roast sorta thing." She spoke faster than he'd ever heard her like she was running out of time. After some more small talk, the train started to fill up with more and more students. This prompted Hermione to go and get herself and her friends their compartment.

Soon after Dean was abandoned by his peer Neville came, stumbling into the compartment with two bags that struggled to fit through the sliding doors. The poor boy dropped them on the end of one seat, planting himself on the other side immediately resting his head on the window.

"You only left with a few bits..." Dean looked at his friend's luggage concerned and more importantly confused.

Neville groaned loudly and pushed his head off the window, "My delightful grandmother thought I should have a few more things, then she wanted you guys to have some things, she even got your cat something"

Seamus's impeccable timing brought him into the room only one or two seconds after that. "My god Neville, Do you really need that much stuff? You're not moving permanently or anything"

With another loud groan, Neville retreated his head to the window once again while Dean held back a laugh.

They caught up while on the tough journey back to Scotland from London. Neville didn't have much to say but Seamus covered for him fabulously and at length. The Irish lad filled Neville in on his adventure to Deans, making sure to give all his honest opinions on his family to the house even to the neighbourhood kids. Most were kind. Dean filled them in on how he spent his holidays, most days he was out either with one of his sisters or one of his parents. Elizabeth took him to look at various street art in London. Donna went to the park with him and exchanged some football tricks and how to do them. Maple and Dean watched a few horror movies that traumatised the young boy fully, not the actual movie but instead the laughs that came from the person beside him. It took him a good few days to start having full nights of sleep. Him being in a different country might help his new fear of his sister but he couldn't know for sure until they arrived.

The trolley came round around halfway through their trip, and the nice old lady asked them if they wanted anything. Dean realised that he had exchanged a lot of muggle money for some wizard's money but had nowhere to spend it. They ended up scoffing their faces with various magical candies for a good portion of the trip. Dean called it a late Christmas present to both his friends.

Once again the first years took the little row boats across the dark waters. Quickly they made their way to the Great Hall, taking their seats closest to the teacher's table where their unofficial place was. They somehow were not the last to arrive but were so hungry and tired that they had no more energy to talk. Silence roamed the hall as the students flooded through taking their seats. Once they were all sat down, Dumbledore rose from his throne at the centre of the table and waved his hands for silence.

"Welcome back. I hope you have enjoyed your time spent with your parents or with your guardians during the holidays. I imagine you are all waiting for this speech to be over so that you can enjoy the feast...Don't let me stop you"

The long tables were filled to the brim with a wide variety of different foods for a roast dinner. Not a single space of the tables was left bare. The Gryffindors dug in. Snatching and seizing the food as fast as they could and when their plates could hold nothing more they finally eat until they can eat no more. Ronald took this ideology a little too seriously. Dean could barely keep his eyes open before dessert even appeared on the table. He excused himself and headed up to the dormitories. The spiral staircase up was like a battle itself but when Dean won it almost didn't seem like a real victory.

The dorm was exactly as it was when they left. Except for a large pile of books that filled the space between Ron and Harry's beds but Dean didn't give it a second look. On his bed was his bag and his cat curled up on his pillow. The young muggle-born decided this would be the perfect time to unpack and reorganise all his belongings. By the time the others arrived Dean had just finished and crashed on his bed. Seamus dropped a small plate on his friend's nightstand with a slice of Cheesecake.

Ron and Harry were nowhere to be seen but the other two were. Neville looked at the luggage, threw it harshly onto the ground then proceeded to throw himself onto his bed. Seamus and Dean shared a look right before they both went at sat on the foot of Nevilles' bed.

Neville lay on his bed with his head dug deep into his pillows. The poor boy's eyes were squinted shut from the part of his face he kept up to breathe. His complexion was as pale as a ghost and his whole body trembled. Throughout the day he seemed quiet and closed off but neither one of the boys truly saw any signs that would worry them as they are now. Seamus looked to Dean for help.

"Neville what's wrong?... Did something happen during Christmas? I-Is your nan...Is she okay?" Seamus pinched him as he something he had said was completely wrong or disastrous. At least he said something. At least he was the one to ask.

Neville took a deep breath between his hyperventilating and tears. He took a few more after that. Eventually, the tears came to a slow stop and his breathing didn't force him to gasp for air every few moments. Taking his time, he sat up hugging his knees tightly into his chest. It was too dark to see clearly but they both guessed he was still crying.

"My nan is fine...She...During the holidays we visited my parents...Twice" He paused, taking in a deep breath of air and wiping the tears from his face with his sleeves. "They are permanent residents at St Mungo's Hospital for Magical Maladies and Injuries...they don't even know who I am! They look at me like a stranger and some days they don't even do that" A long silence filled the air, along with shock and sympathy. "On Christmas, I have no idea what I expected but they just...nothing. Not even a glance." The poor Gryffindor boy started to sob, his whole body trembled and he was gasping like there was no air in the room. Seamus rushed over to Nevilles' side pulling him into a hug, Dean went around to his other side holding onto his shoulder softly. "I-I so sorry I shouldn't be-"

"Shut up Neville...just...shut up" Seamus hugged him tighter looking sadly at Dean with tears in his eyes. They had known Neville for months now. Grown so close. Genuinely believed that they knew Neville. That they understood him. They didn't feel betrayed or angry. They were crushed. Absolutely crushed, they couldn't imagine having to deal with that. Not in their worst nightmare. But Neville has carried it like a weight on his shoulder with no support since he started. No support from his nan and certainly none from his friends. Both of the young wizards were hellbent on doing better. Dean hugged both his friends leaning his chin on Neville's shoulder.

From all the crying Neville exhausted himself and soon after he was sleeping soundly with the curtains wrapped around his bed like a shield. The only thing he asked from his friends was to not share that piece of information with anyone else. Dean opened Neville's curtain slightly to let Rush jump in with him, hopefully, be nice to him but with cats who knows what they will do.

Seamus and Dean both went and sat on the window ledge that stood between their beds. Dean had his sketchbook leaning on his knees, as he drew small sketches of Seamus's hair. Not his face, of course, just admiring his hair. The way it fell and the way it stood. Seamus stared out the window gazing at the stars and the sky, the moon that lit up the earth. He looked mesmerized. They both did. No words were spoken after Neville went to sleep. Not a single one.

Chapter Text

Sunday, 5th January

Returning to the giant school was an easy transition, for once again Dean was in a room with all of his closest friends. Waking up to see them all shut away in their curtained-off beds. Most of the day the other boys spent finishing off homework, Neville was understandably quiet and Seamus was extremely joyful. Ron and Harry disappeared along with Hermione for most of the day. Dean walked the grounds enjoying the rare taste of sunlight that was soon drowned out by the grey clouds that swarmed the sky. The forbidden forest was, just like the last term, dark and mysterious. Making unnatural and strange noises that freaked Dean out so much that he returned to the school hastily. Lunch was when the three Gryffindors finally reunited, Seamus was ecstatic as was Neville. Homework was done and out of the way so the remainder of the day was spent talking in the dorms. Most were them taking turns to vent about their parents and in Dean's case, sister's too. Harry and Ron reappeared at dinner looking very chipper. Most likely because of the food.

Monday, 6th January 1992

Classes started like normal, teachers demanded homework punishing those who have not completed it at all or done it to incredibly low standards. McGonagall was very strict with hers while Professor Sprout was fairly lenient. Dean was glad to be back, it seemed they all were. Hogwarts was freedom for the students, most subjects were interesting at the very least. For Dean, it was as if it were a fantasy land filled with lots of mystery and wonder which he sought to explore and discover. Seamus seemed not too fascinated in many of his classes but did have curiosities about most advanced magic. However thanks to a rather large explosion, they ended up in the infirmary right before lunch, with no significant harm done at all. In no time their first day back was over.

After Dinner, Dean snuck out with Fred and George Weasley to once again work on the extinguishing spell. The courtyard was dormant. They worked tirelessly even after the dark took over the sky and eventually, Dean roared the incantation and the fire died out only seconds after. The celebrations almost got them caught but luckily the twins seemed to know the fastest route back, cutting through a few creepy passageways. When Dean climbed into bed past curfew it seemed to him none of the other Gryffindors was awake, only his cat who was curled on the windowsill. Dean held out his arms and the ginger feline jumped right into them.

Tuesday, 7th January 1992

00:00 AM

A delicate grasp on Dean's shoulder startled him awake, his vision was slightly blurred but a small golden flame was held in the newly enclosed bed. With the curtains blocking out the light from outside Dean didn't know the time until he sat up rubbing his eyes. Kneeling beside him was his best friend holding a chocolate cupcake with dark red frosting and a creamy white candle that held a dancing golden flame. Seamus was smiling widely as he held out the cupcake to his friend proudly.

"Happy Birthday. You best take it before I light the bed on fire."

After hearing the faint whispers of his friend, Dean quickly took the cupcake with a weak and slightly confused smile.

"And we wouldn't want that, would we?"

Dean kept the candle lit so that inside the dark walls made by the curtains both he and his friend would be able to see. He balanced the snack on a pile of books collected from the nightstand that stood next to the bed.

"Do you know how hard it was to wake up this early? I almost froze to death on the way to the kitchens"

"I'll have to thank the house elves...I'm guessing they didn't let you by the stove?"

"The Professors have personally told them not to let me near the stove, I had to wait by the door"

Dean laughed so hard Seamus had to cover his mouth, making sure he didn't wake up the entire dorm with the echoing of his loud hysteria. Once the laughter died down Seamus climbed out of the bed and dragged one of the heavy curtains open, what was left was a thin, very translucent black curtain. Seamus climbed back through with a wide grin.

"I thought since you don't like the big ones you could use these if you ever wanted to be left alone. It's less...boxy. Less closed in"

Dean was glad that the light in the bed was limited and faulty, for tears were swelling in his eyes. He smiled widely brushing his fingers through the soft, thin fabric ignoring the dull weight he felt in his heart.

"It's great!" The poor boy choked out before wiping the tears away with his sleeve. He lunged at his friend across his bed, only a few millimetres away from knocking over the cupcake, wrapping his arms tightly around his best friend. When he pulled himself together and sat back down Seamus handed him a magazine.

"This and the pile next to your bed are magazines about me local Irish quidditch teams and the national one. The oldest is at the top and the more recent is towards the bottom. Thought you should have some taste in sport if we continue to be friends."

Dean laughed and took the magazine admiring the animated player from the front cover. He still was not used to how they moved freely on the paper, much like how the portraits also confused him, he was freaked by both these things too. As time passed both boys started to become more and more tired, trying relentlessly to keep their eyes open. Eventually, Dean blew out the candle, letting his wish rise to the sky with the endless string of grey smoke. The cupcake didn't last long after that, between them it couldn't have lasted more than a minute or two.

Seamus returned to his bed after opening the thick curtains that surrounded Dean's four-poster bed, leaving the new airy ones as they stood. They both drifted into a deep sleep as soon as their heads fell gently onto their pillow.

When Dean finally woke up, it was a good hour later than he usually did. Propped up by his arms, Dean stared directly at his new curtains smiling. Rush jumped on the bed through the divides of the fabric and cuddled up to the young student. He couldn't see the figures that moved across the room clearly but he could hear them. Harry and Seamus were devising a new plan to wake up Ron while Neville was either collecting books he needed for today or getting dressed. But his guess was accurate. He climbed out of his bed to see Harry and Seamus dragging Ron by his feet to the bathroom and Neville stood beside his bed putting on his robe. Dean laughed when the shower was turned on and Ronald ran out of the bathroom with his ginger hair soaked, dripping water over his face and down his back. Harry and Seamus were not visible but their laughter drowned out any other sounds in the dorm. While Ron screamed violently at the hysterical duo, Dean quickly threw on his uniform and packed his bag ready for the day ahead.

Neville and Dean waited for a bit then decided to head down without them, they're ears rang loudly all the way down. Neville wished Dean a happy birthday on the way and many more as he arrived. The whole Gryffindor table along with numerous people from the other ones wished him a happy birthday as he walked down the hall. Dean didn't realise he knew this many people until today. When he sat Lavander, Hermione and the Patil sister joined him and Neville talking happily about their Christmas. With only half an hour of breakfast left a very happy Seamus and Harry walked in with a very grumpy-looking Ron behind. On the way down the happy pair of idiots started to loudly sing Happy Birthday, by the time they reached the end of the Gryffindor table close to everyone was singing. Even the teachers. Even Snape. Mind you he still looked miserable.

Dean smiled at his friends and blushed hard until the singing stopped and everyone continued about their normal day. The boys sat and enjoyed what was left of breakfast until it was time for the first class.

The morning started with double potions lessons which were usually spent during theory and then the practical afterwards. The students piled into the classroom, the group of young Gryffindors sat close to the front with Draco and his lot taking the large table next to it. The bunch of Slytherins were loud, disoriented and most importantly rude. Not to the teacher, obviously. Snape might have been their head of house however he had ice running through his veins. They would throw things, mostly at Harry or Ron. Seamus and Ron teamed up and even got Dean to quickly draw Draco with a ginormous head and greasy hair that slick back. Draco was sitting on his father's knee begging for attention. Draco was not happy. Not happy indeed. The violently blonde boy stormed towards their table knocking everything in his path. The Malfoy heir was sent out by Snape.

The potion they were to focus on today was the forgetful potion. At that moment everyone turned to Neville and Neville turned a frightful and unnatural shade of red. For the first portion of the lesson, they were taught the History, discoveries and developments of the potion along with writing up the method to brewing it and also writing up the safety concerns. Luckily this took less than an hour meaning the class would have a longer doing the practical assignment. For once, Dean paired with Seamus who pushed everyone out of his way and nearly jumped over the table to dibs him. They both went to collect various ingredients and Seamus grabbed his special cauldron from the front of the room and they began.

Dean and Seamus were a strange duo in potions. Dean has the talent and the book. Seamus has no talent and the uncontrollable ability to blow things up. For a while, Dean and Seamus worked separately and compared results but the safer option was for Dean to just show Seamus what to do throughout while they questioned each other. Dean somehow missed a step, thankfully Seamus pointed out before he seemed to add too much afterwards, so he asked Snape to help. A cold sigh was heard from the other side of the large classroom and as slowly and reluctantly as he could, he made his way to them. The Professor looked to Seamus for an explanation and was shocked to find it was a result of Dean instead.

"Sorry sir, I accidentally added four whole mistletoe berries instead of crushing them. Do I have to redo or can I fix it?"

"This is most shocking Mr Thomas. Shocking indeed. Take them out quickly before they are digested by the potion, then add the crushed berries."

"Oh...Thought that would be more difficult...Thank you, sir"

"Don't make this mistake again Thomas" Snape turned to leave but instead turned back with a less cold expression. More neutral. "Happy Birthday"

Snape didn't stay long at all after that. Seamus couldn't move for a while. Just stared at the wall in shock. Dean laughed at his stupidity and quickly fished out the berries, collecting some more to crush this time. Snape avoided Dean's table all lesson, meaning Harry and Ron escaped all the soul-crushing insults Snape usually threw at them throughout the lesson. It only gets worse as time passes but today they were free. Most people in the class managed to brew the potion, some managed to mess it up causing it to change a different colour.

Astronomy was the only other lesson they had. It was quite boring, going over what they had covered in the last term and what they were to be covering through these next few months. Dean and Seamus wrote notes back and forth until the teacher flicked her wand and it lit up into flames. She didn't seem to hold it against them today so they left fairly happy.

Dinner was a festive time and all. The Great Hall was filled five minutes after it opened for Tea. The long tables were filled with various foods, today at the bottom of the Gryffindor table there was a huge dish of lasagna with sides of garlic bread, bread sticks and chips. The hall was alive and full of laughter and cheer. It seemed Dean wasn't the only person to be overjoyed at being back. After Dinner the group of friends started to sing Happy Birthday again and everyone joined in again, most of the Slytherins too. The word Mudblood seemed to slide in somewhere but the teacher couldn't locate where and Dean brushed it off leaving only a little sting in his heart.

When the song had come to a very painful end McGonagall appeared behind the young Londoner holding a bag.

"Your parents left this with the train driver, and told him it was for a very important day" She smiled down at the boy and placed the bag between him and Neville. "Happy birthday Dean"

The head of Gryffindor returned to the top table just as fast as she appeared. Dean looked into the bag and then slide it down under the table. The night went on and the young Gryffindors went from the Great Hall into the Common room to celebrate. At first, it was just a few of them but after a while, many of the older years joined also, Fred and George as well as Lee of course. People from other houses like Enzo who was still apologising for the little spell incident. He came with some friends from both Hufflepuff and Ravenclaw. Dean wondered for a bit whether some of them even knew why they were there. The celebrations went on till around 11 and probably longer however Dean didn't want to push his luck. He retired to the dorm to happily find it empty. A rare but appreciated occasion.

The Londoner sat in the centre of his bed, the flimsy curtains drawn around him and the thick paper bag in front of him. Inside it was a large box which took up most of the room, budged up next to it was a thick, old book which seemed to be falling apart and the cover peeling away. Sticking out was a pure white envelope which Dean pulled out first. On the front, written in the very messy handwriting of his father was his name.

'To Dean,

We both wish to have been there with you for your birthday but we are glad you are spending it with friends at the very least. Your mother and I have packed your gifts with the very kind train driver, if you are reading this then I will make sure to bring him some wine when we pick you up at the end of the year. Twelve years old! Almost a teenager! I can hardly believe it. Anyway, I'll let you get on. Don't forget to write back and we hope you like the presents. Trust me they were difficult to get.

Lots of Love,

Dad

P.S. Your mother says Happy birthday too, and so does your sisters'

Dean set the card down on the wooden surface of his nightstand then returned his gaze to the bag. The book was firmly wedged next to the box it took Dean a great amount of time to muster the type of strength to get it free. The book was indeed old, so old the pages had a slight ting of brown and the cover was cracked and was starting to peel. It was called the 'old codger's cookbook' and inside was a wide range of recipes that were annotated in pen adjusting the ingredients and method. It had things like stews, pies even desserts like tarts. He gently flicked through the pages and from around the middle a small piece of paper fell out. It looked like the back of another government-issued letter, on it was 'At least one of my kids should inherit my talent. Even if it is just through influence alone'. Dean smiled at the book with a wide smile and placed it carefully on his nightstand. Now for the second box.

Thanks to the extra space, fairly easy to get out of the bag. It was quite heavy and seemed to add up to most of the weight of that bag, it was cardboard and written with black marker had 'From all of us back at London' written over the front of it. He knew for sure his sisters had nothing to do with this at all, they most likely didn't even know what Dean was about to be gifted. When he opened the box his face lit up, the box was filled with a variety of, what looked to be, magical items. Meaning his parents must have gone back to the strange diagonal street. The first thing he took out was colour-changing ink. Next a card game called exploding snap. He also got a dark red robe, as Ronald and Neville wear day to day. Or special events usually. At the bottom were a few wizard books that were written as fantasy novels for kids. There was also an assortment of sweets like chocolate frogs, pepper imps, fizzing whizzbees and sugar quills.

He stacked the books next to his bed and shoved his robe messily into his chest. The sweets he had to hide in the cat tree, deep in one of the hidey holes. It seems one of the boys in the dorm has a second sense of finding sweets. The colour-changing ink was immediately put in his school bag along with the exploding snap. By the time Dean was done Seamus and Neville barged into the room singing what was left of a very loud song. Dean laughed and watched for a moment as the boy days danced around the empty space singing their hearts out. The Londoner sat at the end of his bed with a wild smile until Seamus pulled him up by his wrists. Without letting go, they danced and danced until they were too tired and collapsed, fully clothed into their beds. Harry and Ron came back an hour later, confused by the state of their dormmates.

Wednesday, 8th January 1992

The dorm lay dormant for a lot longer than usual that morning. Except for Ron who slept as much as he could every morning. Dean woke up startled by a loud screech in the room, Neville seemed to be running around waking up everyone. Dean rushed out thinking his friend was in danger from, god knows what but instead saw a bee chasing him around the room. The Gryffindor boy bravely woke up his cat holding him in the air to quickly grab and munch on the bug. Neville did not waste time and just threw his arms around his friend.

"Thank you so much!"

When Dean was finally free of the embrace he noticed the tears in Neville's eyes, which made him look slightly embarrassed and away. It seemed nobody else caught on and were too busy trying to wake themselves up. Dean messed up Neville's hair and pushed him towards his bed.

"Come on, We'll be late at this rate"

Neville hurried along, wiping his tears as he walked. Around 20 minutes later they were all out the door and enjoying the last twenty minutes of breakfast. They would have had a little more but the first lesson was transfiguration. Professor McGonagall was incredibly strict, especially with time and deadlines.

The trio arrived around five minutes early but was welcomed by the teacher. They chose to sit at the front, right corner with Neville at the table behind. While Seamus and Neville argued about which one is more talented at transfiguration, Dean talked to the professor briefly about human transfiguration. It was a very difficult topic and most students at Hogwarts will not be able to master the art of Human transfiguration but before the conversation got too interesting the classroom started filling up with students. Dean returned to his seat and class began. The task was to turn mice into snuffboxes, they were to work on this for a few lessons to completely perfect it and start adding a range of materials and detail. The mice were very cute and little, Dean fell in love with them instantly and felt quite bad pointing his wand at the innocent animal. However he managed to make the snuffbox within the first half of the lesson and for the first time, he was the first student to actually achieve the spell. Many others followed behind him including Seamus, the box still had ears and a moving tail but it was close. Professor McGonagall even smiled at him, then moved on quickly. Neville came over and congratulated Seamus and pouted about not being able to do it. The Irish lad tried to change the box back into a mouse however instead flames shot at the table. Luckily it missed the box but the wooden table was a victim of the fire instead. Before Professor McGonagall even got out her wand, Dean had his pointed at the table, relinquishing the flames until all that was left was a scorch mark on the table.

The classroom was dead silent. Even the Professor was stunned out of words. She fixed up the table and changed back the box as if nothing had ever happened then proceeded to tell the rest of the class to get back to the lesson. Of course, it took a few minutes for the class to fully move on from the events that just occurred but Seamus was the only one Dean had eyes on. His wand was taken from him and his eyes were glued to the table.

"I need to speak with both of you outside please" The Professor quickly informed them as she headed out into the hallway.

Both the Gryffindor boys followed her outside and waited patiently for the Professor to do something.

"Dean I am impressed with how quickly you acted but help me understand how a first-year student new to the wizarding world came to know and successfully perform a sixth-year spell?"

It was not as if the teacher was angry with him, or upset. Instead confused and perhaps a little impressed.

"I asked Professor Flitwick to teach me it, we've been working on the charm for a few months...Yeah..."

"Well for that Gryffindor will be rewarded 20 points, both for your fast reaction and your initiative"

Dean nodded his head politely and when nothing more was said he made his way back to his seat leaving Seamus with Professor McGonagall. Neville almost tackled Dean as soon as he walked in bombarding the poor boy with questions that Dean brushed off with a smile. Seamus returned to the classroom only five minutes later with the Professor but seemed good as new and Happier than ever.

Class ended on a strange note but Dean had to disappear afterwards to use the free to write back to his parents. He walked all the way up to the owlery and sat with his legs hanging from the edge and halfway through writing the letter Seamus found him and sat beside him watching the world outside the school silently.

'To Dad and mum,

My birthday was amazing even though I missed you guys loads. Seamus got me some wizard sports magazines and some less claustrophobic curtains which I thought was really thoughtful. He's already started to teach me to play exploding snap and my teachers weren't too impressed with the colour-changing ink but I sure was! It took me a moment to realise that you went back to Diagon Alley, thank you so much for all the presents. Say hello to the demons for me and Lizzie. She must be revising like crazy for her exams, bit of an overreaction if you ask me because she's got months yet. Anyway, I best be off. Remember to write me back though.

Love Dean'

Seamus called over his beautiful bird and without stopping the bird snatched the paper from Dean's hand and flew into the horizon until the bird became a small dot then couldn't be seen.

"I could've used a school bird"

"She likes to fly but I don't send letters. It's better for everyone...Plus she really does like your house"

"What can I say? My home is just irresistible"

"Yes I could hardly hold back when I got there, kicking and screaming when I had to leave"

"Though I heard something when you were driving away!"

After a playful punch and some retaliation they got off the ledge and back to the main part of the school.

Chapter Text

Winter was cold and grim, the castle was pounded daily by the heavy downfall of rain and violent winds. The misery of the weather did not affect the cheerful mood of the hundreds of students that habituated in the school. Dean, Neville and Seamus had explored much of the school, learnt close to a dozen more charms and hexes (only half learnt in lessons) and managed to collectively charm the majority of their year and a good portion of the others. Dean with his kindness. Neville with his naiveness. Seamus with his curiosity and confidence. Harry, Ronald and Hermione were very isolated throughout the cold months of the year. Always together, always whispering and always disappearing. The girls Lavander and Parvati were always bugging the boys, giggling to themselves and pestering them. Sadly the topic of exams was floating around the school, for older years it was more serious and the dreading looks on their faces only got worse as time passed by. Professor McGonagall made a long and painful speech highlighting the advantages of revising in the early years and how extra studies does wonder for exams. The witch also stated that they would have mock exams around the middle of the year so that the students had an idea of what the exams at the end of the year would be like. These would be less formal and students that were struggling would be given support and guidance.

Saturday, 29th Feburary 1992

The Weasley Twins barged into the dorm, throwing the door half off its hinges. Seamus jumped up so high all the others heard off him was the hard thud once he had hit the floor harshly. Neville was trembling under the blankets that wrapped around him tightly. Dean was sat up on the window sill with his ginger cat curled up on his lap. Ron was still sound asleep whereas Harry was staring blankly at his ceiling. The Twins came for their brother, who was in a coma-like state, thankfully they knew a lot more spells than the first years and managed to wake Ron up by using the Duro charm to turn his pillows and mattress into stone.

Ron was sour about the brutal awakening, he and the others in the dorm shared this opinion but the charming twin's charismatic behaviour seemed to lighten the mood. While the redhead first-year stayed behind with his brothers the rest of the Gryffindors hurried down to the Great Hall for breakfast. Everyone knew that tomorrow was the grand day that Ronald Weasley was one year closer to becoming a teenager. He had reminded them enough throughout the week so most of the school knew. Dean bought him a few muggle things like coke and Rubik's cube. Seamus wrote him a card and made Neville sign his present for them both. No one knew what Harry was doing but Hermione got him a book, and from then on everyone stopped listening.

"Good morning Seamus!" Lavander's screeching voice echoed throughout the large hall making everyone flinch in pain.

Seamus huffed loudly only to be laughed at and nudged by his best friend who wore a large grin, "GoOd MoRnInG sEaMuS!" The Londoner imitated quietly to his friend before taking his seat at the end of the Gryffindor table.

To Seamus's delight, the seats left available were a good few away from Lavander and her fellow friends leaving Dean and Seamus undisturbed throughout their meal. At some point between the tower and the hall, Neville disappeared.

"I think Lavander likes you"

"Shut up"

"She's not discrete either"

"Shut up Thomas"

"Aww look she's smiling at you"

"Dean...Shut. Up"

Dean laughed at Seamus's red face, his bitter eyes and the way he forced himself to look at Dean instead of the crazy girl giggling at the end of the table. After some quick toast both the boys went outside to spend the day out in the rain. The one and only perk being they would be for the most part all alone. They sat on an old, stone wall that had been beaten down over time. The sounds of the rain souring like bullets down onto the grass and the stone drowned out the occasional screams of people being chased in the rain or the explosive laughter of children filled with freedom.

"Dean...Dean...Deannn...Deannnnnn...I'm bored..." Seamus was watching as a string of athletes in blue quidditch uniforms were grimly walking down to the pitch where they could practice in the very sorrowful weather.

"Do something then" Dean shrugged as his pencil was being dragged lightly across the page again and again. And when he was done, we would just do it on another part of the page until it was impossible to fit anymore. And then he turns the page.

Seamus groaned loudly and leaned further on his best friend resulting in the loud slam of his book and to Seamus's wish, Dean's undivided attention. The Irish lad took back some of his weight and looked around at the dark and mysterious forest that surrounded the school, acting almost like walls. To keep the students in. But what keeps the monsters out?

"You ever heard of Banshee's Thomas?"

"No Finnigan. You know full well I haven't so go on, fill me in on the Banshee situation"

Ignoring the obvious sarcasm that flooded the muggle-borns voice.

"In Ireland, there are these spirits that take the form of women, usually with pitch black hair that drags across the ground as they walk, they are really skeletoney and have a really green tone to their skin. When they scream it sounds like your brain is being crushed and squeezed out through your eyes"

"Jesus Christ Seamus was there a point to that horrifying horrifying discovery"

"Yeah of course" The boy lifted his hand and pointed to the forest, "I wonder if there is anything that stops dark creatures from waltzing in to say hello?"

Dean investigated the forest for a moment scanning his eyes across the trees and into the darkness beyond. Both boys stared at the forbidden forest for a few more moments. Without any words exchanged the two Gryffindor first years headed back inside the safe and dry walls of the castle. Seamus ran after the freaked-out Londoner laughing his ass off.

The dorm was vacant. Everyone was out even the cat. But the ancient stone did nothing to protect from the merciless cold that invaded from the outside. The boys went and sat on the window sill doing the same as they were outside. Dean was sketching, leaning on his knees and looking occasionally over at his best friend as a reference. Seamus was watching as the rain shot at the window and raced down until he couldn't see it again. It wasn't long that they were able to sit, carelessly, observing the world outside as it moved on but being completely in their own world.

A very red and out of breath Neville barged through the door slamming it behind him and catching his breath violently hunched over in the middle of the room. The odd boy caught the attention of the pair by the window but apparently, the feelings were not returned. Neville jumped out of his skin when he finally felt the eyes of his two dormmates on him.

"Oh...Thought you two were enjoying the rain?" Neville questioned after finally having caught his breath and made his way to Dean's bed to sit closer to his friends.

"You see Dean ra-"

"It was too cold so we decided to come back inside before we die" The youngest Thomas quickly spat, interrupting Seamus's start of an explanation though much to his entertainment. "Why were you running Longbottom?"

"...Revision. Just remembered that we have got tests most of next week. Need to pass or my nan will beat me" Neville laughed the violence off before glancing over at Dean's sketchpad, observing the various light drawing of a certain Irish kid, with messy hair and hundreds of tiny freckles.

Dean closed his book as he and Neville shared a look. A look that sorta said something like 'not a word' and 'right then..'. Poor Seamus sat clueless until they finally started to get out some study things and move onto the beds using Dean and Seamus's beds as a workspace. Thankful the disorganised and chaos-driven group of young Gryffindors all share different skills in different subjects so questions were mostly answered. All but Seamus's. It was as if he wanted to crack the world open and watch as its secrets pour out. This did not happen on the last Saturday of march 1992. This would probably never happen. Seamus did not acknowledge this and instead asks as many questions as he could think of whenever they popped into his head.

They steadily got through a good amount of revision of core subjects like potion and transfiguration, charms were more difficult because practice makes perfect but sadly Neville froze up or flicked the wand frantically whereas Seamus seemed to do the spell too well which occasionally led to some minor sparks or flames. History of magic was too boring to waste a Saturday on so instead they just didn't. Herbology was forced on them by Neville who was extremely happy to share all his knowledge and top tip with his friends. Around three hours in Harry, Ron and Hermione walked into the room. While the three boys tried to work out how Hermione got in she ran over and scanned over the book they had scattered along with the scruffy notes. The witch buzzed with strange excitement while Seamus's eyes were too heavy to keep open.

"You're actually revising! I've been trying to get these two idiots to start for months"

"How are yo-" and before the question was ever answered, Hermione stepped in.

"There are only spells to prevent boys from going to the girls' dorm but nothing to stop girls from coming up here"

"Oh"

The three boys shifted around, putting back books and trying to organise the newly written notes. Or at least Neville and Dean was putting everything away, and Seamus was spread out across his bed laying on heaps of vital knowledge. Hermione was wandering around the room, exploring curiously the different displays around the room. She recognised the sports team that hung on the wall close to Dean's bed, watched the quidditch players zoom towards her in posters by Seamus and Ron's bed, admired the plants that bloomed on the window closest to Neville and lack of everything over by poor orphan Harry. Once she had fulfilled everything she intended, the nosey witch went and helped herself to Harry's bed while he and Ron sat awkwardly on the others.

"By the way, Fred and George gave me an early birthday present...wondered if you lot were up for sneaking out tonight?"

After being answered by three confused faces Ronald decided to elaborate for his friends.

"Fireworks. No sorry. I meant magic fireworks. Midnight show for the rest of the school? It'll be so much fun! Besides my brothers say the first years are when you get weak punishments. They save all the sick stuff for the older and more 'mature' students...You guys in or not?"

Hermione groaned loudly and began a rant about how privileged they were to be able to come to this school and how it was dangerous and stupid. It resulted in her furiously exiting the dorm, slamming it as she left.

"It sounds pretty risky. Not sure if we should go" Neville barely whispered to his friends. An opinion that was overlooked in a second.

"Course we'll go! I'm not missing McGonagall's face when she runs outside" Seamus exclaimed loudly with a laugh causing a look of concern on Neville's face.

"Neville if you don't want to, we won't blame you," Dean whispered over back to the timid boy only to be kicked by Seamus.

"Not a chance. He doesn't have a choice, it's for Ronald dearest and we all have to be there to truly celebrate his birthday" Seamus snapped back at them being as quiet as he was able to be, even though it sounded a little harsh it was built on concern and empathy towards Neville. Not wanting him to miss out on anything just because it may be risky.

Neville sighed under his breath and with a small and unsure shrug answered Seamus's demands "I don't wanna miss it..."

Seamus happily grinned at Dean who gave him an almost annoyed look.

The darkness came quickly that night and before they knew it, the five Gryffindor boys waited up listening as the common room emptied until there was only silence. Harry and Dean were the ones responsible for carrying the fireworks across the castle after a heated debate, for obvious reasons Seamus was not even considered to do it and Ron was too clumsy. Neville straight-up refused so the last two were the obvious choice. Ron and Seamus were not too happy but Neville was a brilliant tiebreaker.

Hogwarts at night was spine-chilling to the young first-year students. The sound of owls and various creatures that ran across the stone floors echoed across the floors of the castle, bouncing on every wall available at least once. Portraits that occasionally moved or spoke as they slept were not something they had thought of. The small light from the ends of their wands only reached so far. The only thing scarier than the unknown darkness that filled the halls was the old, yellowed-eyed skeleton of a cat called Mrs Norris. The boys sprinted through the halls evidently being pulled in all sorts of directions. Dean was pulled into an extremely dark room by the top of his arm harshly. The person guided him to crouch beside him and gently put his hand over Dean's mouth to top him from making a sound. Slowly but surely his eyes adjusted to the amount of light, or lack there off, and he stared at the figure.

Seamus grinned wildly at him as they followed the sounds of the footsteps past the room and drift off somewhere else in the castle. The two boys were still crouched in the dead of the night, so close they could feel every breath.

The sounds of three more pairs of footsteps alarmed them. They stood and separated only to see the three other first-years by the door. And again they moved slowly and cautiously through the castle until they reached the drenched grass that surrounded the castle. Harry and Dean got to work stabbing them into the grass and once they were set up, they all stood in a line a few feet away.

"Now who's setting it alight?" Neville asked in a shakey voice, clearly trying to hide his nerves. Trying.

"I'm sure Finnigan can manage" Ron blurted out with a laugh. Neville looked horrified and scared but watched as the rest of the group burst into laughter.

Seamus stepped closer to the fireworks, pointing his wand towards the string and was about the mutter a spell but felt someone stand by him. To his right, Dean stood a little behind him smiling softly. Seamus nodded at his friend, acknowledging him. A few words were all it took for the string to coat itself in orange flames, being consumed by the fire that shot to the fireworks. Dean grabbed his friend by the top of his arm, keeping a hand on his back to stop him from tripping in the sludgy mud beneath their feet. They were back in a line before hearing the fireworks whistle loudly into the air and explode into various vibrant colours that almost completely blocked out the night sky.

The cackling was deafening but the images were gorgeous. Beautiful, bright colours drew various designs in the sky. Silhouettes of two people danced through a forest only to propose in front of a lake, the lake swallowed the image and transformed the story to a father and a son on a small fishing boat. The line of the fishing rod swung around and turned into someone whizzing around on a broomstick then two more older people joined. It soon came clear the last story was of Ron and his older brothers. It was cute, smooth and heart-warming. The last few seconds were embarrassing to watch. The light transformed to a range of greens with the words 'Slimy Slytherins' spelt out over the sky. The light went blue and the words changed to 'Rubbish Ravenclaws'. The sky went yellow followed by the words 'Horrid Hufflepuff'. Last but not least the sky exploded red with the words, enlarged and bold 'Greatest Gryffinors'. The fireworks died out. The boys stood still, their ears ringing loudly and their eyes adjusting slowly while their minds processed what happened. Seamus's loud, contagious laugh triggered everyone. The roaring laughter clouded the shouting of the two teachers headed full speed towards the boys.

"What on earth are you boys doing setting off fireworks in the dead of the night?! The whole castle has been woken by this racket!" Professor McGonagall's harsh tone was minuscule compared to the laughter, they were laughing so hard breathing became a secondary concern. Ronald and Seamus even fell into the mud and sadly Dean was dragged down by his 'best friend'. Snape brutally grasped Seamus and Dean's upper arms, dragged them to their feet and headed inside the warm walls of the castle. McGonagall collected the others and they pilled into her office after she removed the mud that covered them completely. It was fairly small but extremely organised, though only had two chairs free. Snape stood behind her scowling harshly at the Gryffindor boys, most likely sour about the Slytherin comment.

"I am still waiting for my answer. What were you thinking?"

Ron shuffled in his seat while the others remained silent.

"Fine. I don't suppose you'll tell me where the fireworks came from then?"

Again silence.

Snape and McGonagall shared a glance before she spoke again.

"This is a serious matter. You have broken curfew as well as set off dangerous magical explosives. Harry will be helping Hagrid feed various magical creatures every day after lessons next week. Neville, you will be serving your detention with me. Ronald, you are with Professor sprout. Seamus, you will be helping Madam Pomfrey. Dean, you will be with Professor Snape. Not sure exactly what each of you will be doing but it will be for a few hours after each day of class next week. I expect nothing like this to ever happen again do you understand me?"

After a collection of 'yes Professor', the Gryffindor students were walked back to the Gryffindor tower by Snape. Who did not say a single word as they walked. Everyone was too tired to process how cruel the punishments seemed. Or how phenomenal the fireworks were that night. As they walked through the common room, they indeed seemed to have woken up a lot of the school. Gryffindors were happy enough, the twins lifted Ron on their shoulders marching him around like a hero. Gifting their brother the fame of their work. The cheers were almost as deafening as the crackling from the fireworks. Neville seemed happier in the comfort and warmth of the castle, as did Harry. Dean was too tired to stay up for his congratulations. On his way to the stairs, he nodded and fist-pumped as many people as he could before disappearing into the dorm ready to collapse on his bed.

Seamus was apparently tired too. Dean dropped onto his bed without even changing into Pyjamas, Seamus sat on the edge of his bed looking at his friend.

"Tired?"

"How are you not? It must be past 1 in the morning"

Seamus only laughed and called over Dean's cat who immediately curled up on his friend's lap. The exhaustion took over Dean and he fell asleep watching his best friend steal the love of his very own cat.

Over the next week, the five boys of the dorm battled not only the brutality of Mocks for every subject but also detention every single day that week. Dean got rid of every cobweb in the potions room, organised the ingredients, fetched some more to top up on ones running low, cleaned and polished the spar cauldron and equipment and deep cleaned the black boarded as well as drawing an image of a cauldron wrapped in vines and flowers while also smoking on one side. The floor was swept and moped and Dean even got to help Snape brew a potion for Madam Pomfrey. He mostly fetched the ingredients and watched but it was a lot better than cleaning. On the last day, he had nothing left to do so Snape sent him to clean out the second-floor girl's bathroom until his hour was up.

Dean walked over and found the cleaning gear outside the toilets. If that wasn't strange enough he found that the toilets were fairly clean with only a few cobwebs and a bit of moping to do. That was until he heard loud sobs from one of the further toilets. After a moment of panic, he decided to speak out.

"Hello? I'm sorry but I've been told to clean the bathrooms..."

Dean slowly headed down the row of cubicles only to stop in front of the one crying. He knocked softly on the door and in return, a white figure floated through the door, right into him and hovered behind him. The confused boy turned to see a girl, in Hogwarts uniform Ravenclaw blue to be precise. She had these thick glasses and her hair tied up.

"Just leave! Leave me to my everlasting misery..." The girls' high-pitched squeal caught Dean off guard but pointed slightly to his cleaning supplies.

"I can't...I can't leave you to your 'everlasting misery'. You'll have to watch me finish my bit of misery for the week"

The ghost floated over to the supplies and then looked to the young Gryffindor boy, "What did you do for the teachers to stick you with me?"

Dean went over and grabbed the mop along with a sign to put on the door, "My friends and I lit some fireworks after curfew"

The ghost spent most of the evening by the wall venting to Dean about mostly small things, then about how people avoid this place and call her names like 'Moaning Myrtle' and also how people still bully her over 50 years past her death. Dean sat on the side of a sink as the floor dried listening to the ghost. He felt shame that people at this school were still appalling enough to bully a troubled person. The girl even asked a bit about Dean.

"What year are you then? Can't be anything older than third"

"I'm a First-year. What year were you?... Before your..."

"Death. Before my life was cruelly taken from me? I was in my third year."

"Was Hogwarts different back then?"

"No. It was still filled with horrid purebloods and helpless muggle-borns. The teachers were still incredibly careless and cruel. The library...has hundreds of new books"

"Really? Are they any good?"

"They any good? ARE THEY ANY GOOD?! I CAN'T EVEN OPEN A DOOR LET ALONE FETCH A BOOK AND FLICK EVERY BLOODY PAGE! DO ONE YOU INCONSIDERATE SHIT"

Dean realised his mistake and quickly made his exit with all the supplies, leaving them by the door. He told no one of his encounter in the toilets. Well, he told Seamus of course but no one else.

For weeks, this girl could not escape Dean's mind. Died at only 14 years old to forever be in a place she sees as hell. It's quite cruel. He couldn't imagine the pain but also being bullied constantly to this day. It was horrific. Dean was determined that one Saturday he asked the librarian Madam Pince if Mrytle had ever asked or been seen looking at any particular book or section. The sour librarian came back with a stack of books. Dean took them all out and immediately went back to the second-floor bathrooms. The large pile of books dropped to the floor with a loud bang. The bathroom was not empty.

Four Ravenclaw girls were in the toilets chanting a rather nasty song about how ugly and pathetic the ghost was. They were so incised in the song they didn't notice Dean until he walked over.

"Hello? Are you done bullying or should I come back later?"

The girls went a little red, one shuffled slightly then put her hand on her hip.

"Go away Mudblood. This has nothing to do with you and why are you in the girl's bathroom?"

"I was told by Professor Snape to clean. Should I go tell him I am unable to do so because some pathetic girls who think what their parents are, has any value whatsoever? It doesn't by the way."

The girl huffed and expressed some colourful opinions of him before storming out with the bright-red girls chasing after her.

Moaning Myrtle appeared looking not too pleased, her eyes were sad but she seemed angry. Dean walked over to the pile of books taking the first.

"You want to read yes?" Dean smiled warmly at her as she floated at him looking down at the book.

"You here to mock me, Thomas?"

"I'm here to read to you...If you wanted of course"

The ghost's face dropped. She looked down at the book and then at him close to tears.

"I haven't read for nearly 50 years"

Dean smiled and sat down leaning against the freezing cold wall with the ghost sitting next to him and for a few hours he read to her. Mind you he got many words wrong and started quite awkwardly, she didn't seem to mind though. This went on until Dean's eyes were heavy and he had to stop himself constantly from drifting off right there in the bathroom. The Ravenclaw girl sent him to bed and thanked him profusely as he left even walking him to the common room door.

When asked what he did that night all he said was, helping a friend.

Chapter Text

'Our favourite son Dean,

Please do not reply to this until after you have finished your exams, they need your undivided attention. We can suffer a few more days. Your father has officially gone mad, he has been collecting ingredients for weeks and is sending you samples of some new desserts he's been experimenting with. There are two of each so you can share with your little firey friend. Tell him Ian said hi, and me too.

Now for the fun stuff. Exams!!
We will be so proud no matter what you do I hope you understand that your health and happiness are our first and top priority. Do not stress yourself. Do not revise late hours into the night. I definitely don't want you to compare yourself to others. People work differently. I used to revise only minutes before an exam and it helped more than if I had done it weeks before. These early years are you figuring it out. Take your time and have fun. If you want we won't even look at these results.

Moving on, Lizzie is doing her mocks too and I just saw her walk into a wall. The twins have decided to set up traps for her sleepwalking state. Poor Lizzie has stepped on legos about 4 times, pied once and tripped only twice. I have also been pied. Since then the house has been trap free but my guard isn't down just yet. Their planning something. I can sense it. I'll keep you updated though.

If I make this any longer I'll be writing a short story so I'll leave it here,

Lots of love,
your mother

plus Ian and the girls who are thinking of you and missing you.'

The letter came for Dean a few days into the exams, he put it aside but when he finally got around to reading it the light in his eyes only glowed brighter. Seamus saw them from miles away, the cookies more than his newfound sparkle in his friend's eye. The two of them closed the curtain that eventually enclosed Seamus's bed completely. For hours they ate different cookies, talking about Ian, his baking and his talent. That morphed into their baking talents and Seamus's family cooking (Which was all done by his mother or grandmother). It took them a good few cookies until Dean rushed to the dark silent bathroom to throw up. A disgusting sound ricocheted off the walls of the dorm. Seamus collected a glass of water and filled it from the sink as he sat on the edge of the bathtub gently guiding the bathroom door shut to hopefully block the sound to the others.

"I knew you didn't have the stomach for this"

"Shut up, that isn't exact-"

Dean had a long night. Seamus dragged both their blankets along with two pillows to the bathroom. Dean cuddled up next to the toilet, leaning on the frozen stone wall whereas Seamus got himself the bathtub.

"You don't have to stay, It's not glamorous nor will you get much sleep"

"Thomas oh Thomas, I've slept through some unimaginable things, you'd be surprised."

Dean suffered through the night, by the end of it he was a shivering mess with a burning throat. Seamus did not sleep much, he refilled Dean's water, talked quietly to distract him, and even got him a second blanket.

Dean woke, trembling from the cruel temperatures of the room, listening as the voices crept in from outside. One was filled with thick rage. One was soft and soared like a calm autumn breeze. After a while, another voice popped up, the voice of reason. The annoying screech of Percy Weasley. The young Gryffindor peeked over to look into the bath finding an empty bundle of blankets. Lifting himself off the cold hard floor Dean sat for a moment at the end of the bath and inhaled the rest of the water from his glass.

When he eventually made his way out of the room he saw Ron, a furiously red complexion. The youngest Weasley boy was yelling at Seamus, who stood calm in the face of his demonic behaviour. Percy was awkwardly standing between the two clearly suffering a giant migraine. It didn't take Dean long to piece together the puzzle.

"HE'S BEEN IN THERE ALL NIGHT JUST WAKE HIM UP"

"No, he's been throwing up all night. He is closer to death than you've ever been. Just go find another toilet"

"What possessed you two to eat cookies for half the night? That was significantly more stupid than I thought you were capable of but clearly not"

"I called you in here to sort out the yelling, not give an unneeded lecture on having a sweet tooth"

"I NEED A PISS"

Dean moved out of the doorway finally catching their attention.

"Bathrooms free"

Ronald Weasley had never been seen running that fast in his life. Not even to get to a Hogwarts feast. Percy looked at the half-dead student with enough pity to make Dean want to crawl up and sob.

"You, Dean Thomas, I had so much hope."

With his disappointment out of the way Percy made his exit in a hurry leaving Dean and Seamus but before words could be shared the loud flush of the toilet flooded through the room then Ron walked past them both without a word. Once it was just them in the room they burst into an eruption of loud laughter which didn't die down slowly. The more they tried to stop, the harder it was until they were either on the floor or leaning onto something with all their weight. Eventually, they did stop and Seamus went and sat on his bed.

"I told Percy you wouldn't be in today, breakfast is going on as we speak. I can bring you up something? Toast would be best I think"

"Nah I'll come down"

"You sure? It won't take me long"

Dean laughed and put on his slippers, not bothering to change out of his pyjamas. The Great Hall was filled with black uniforms causing the yellow outfit that wandered through the hall to stand out. Choosing not to sit too close to his sour roommate, Dean and Seamus sat with the girls. Lavender and Parvati were chatting away happily about some rumours based on fourth-year Hufflepuffs who were caught making out in Snape's empty classroom. He was not too happy. The whole castle shook in fear but thankfully McGonagall's sixth sense was on point.

Dean could see his sour face the moment he walked on, even the way others reacted and sat away from him ever so slightly. Seamus was pulled into the conversation immediately while Dean nibbled on some toast listening in. Ron stared aggressively momentarily but was clipped on the back of the head by Hermione. The Slytherin table almost exploded into cheers as they watched. Draco starred for a lot longer but not at the first-year Weasley, instead at Harry. Who did not care to return the look. Dean looked around the room observing a few things that he had never noticed before. Percy and Oliver Wood sat together, very close, while Oliver yabbered on probably about nothing and Percy listen perfectly. A group of Ravenclaws were having a very heated discussion which was resolved by a game of rock, paper, scissors. A timid pair of Slytherins were choosing between four different colours of nail polish. A beautiful lime green, a soft purple, a bold yellow and a jet black.

Minutes later he was elbowed violently back to reality. Seamus held a bright smile and gestured to Lavander who looked like she was expecting an answer.

"Sorry, what?"

"Are you not going to lessons today?"

"Oh no I'm not feeling one hundred percent so I'm gonna spend today sleeping"

"What about the results?"

"I'm sure Seamus can pick them up for me. I can wait"

The looks from the other Gryffindors scared Dean to the core. They all seemed confused. If not confused then concerned.

"It was only mocks. My parents don't care too much anyways, it's more like guidance to where you need to work harder"

No change.

Dean took one more piece of toast and stood away from the table.

"Well...Bye"

The Gryffindor exited hastily from both that painful conversation and the Great Hall drifting in a sleep-like state back to his dorm. The memories of the journey were limited and blurry because as soon as he dropped into his bed, exhaustion overwhelmed him.

-Seamus's Perspective-

Throughout the first period, the results were handed out in the Great Hall after it was cleared. Lines were formed heading to the table with towers of brown envelopes holding the educational worth of every student in the first years. The line was fast which only built the tension and the hardcore nerves which Seamus turned quickly into firepower. By the time he was in front of the table, the boy was jumping up and down. He was given his envelope and then asked to move on.

"Professor, could I get Dean's too? Give it to him at break?"

"No Mr Finnigan, I will give it to Dean when I get the chance"

"Respectfully, Have you seen either me or Dean alone since school has started?"

"...No"

"See!! I will see him way before you get the chance. You are the second most important person in the school and I wouldn't be surprised if you won't get any time today throughout your very busy schedule to go and give Dean his report so why don't I save you the bother."

"Mr Finnigan-"

"I won't stop arguing this"

The stern woman flicked through the papers quickly handing one over to Seamus. She dismissed him quicker than Seamus thought possible. He walked down the hall wearing the biggest smile he could physically make, tightly grasping the envelopes in his hand. After turning a few corners to an isolated hall he shoved his friend's envelope into his pocket and scanned through his own.

History of Magic-A
Astronomy-A
Potions-E
Charms-D
Transfiguration-C+
Defense Against the dark arts-B
Herbology-C

"Okay...Okay...Got a few A's" Seamus mumbled to himself while pacing a small section of the hall, after that he continued to repeat some encouraging phrases.

Neville came rushing into the hall, filled with panic and worry. Seamus greeted his friend with a small smile but had his report stolen from his hands. Neville scanned over his grades then groaned and leaned against the wall.

"My Nan is going to kill me"

Seamus laughed and took a quick look at his friend's grades while he slumped down the wall putting his head between his knees.

History of Magic-U
Astronomy-U
Potions-E
Charms-D
Transfiguration-C
Defense Against the dark arts-B
Herbology-A

Seamus's smile dulled for a moment but quickly turned around into a bright grin. Thankfully Neville was too busy remembering to breathe to see Seamus's slight hesitation. The Irish lad sat down next to Neville putting the paper on his lap.

"Neville...You are thriving at three of the hardest subjects...We will just have to help you out with the others. Besides these are only mocks right? You have time to turn this around"

After a low groan, Seamus continued.

"Look we both need to pull ourselves together and work a little harder. Come on, Astronomy is useless and the Potions teacher hates you. This was obviously a setup...Besides once we look at Dean's results all this worrying and disappointment will turn into jealousy."

Neville laughed and lifted his head smiling back at Seamus. They laughed for a moment and listened as a bell echoed through the halls. The laughter turned into panic then both the Gryffindor boys ran through the halls and to Potions. Snape was not pleased they were late but instead of gifting them a horrifying detention he asked where his star pupil was. Somehow he looked colder after knowing Dean would be abandoning him.

Most of the lesson was Snape saying what a bunch of disappointments they were, how most had failed or done horribly while also complementing the students who did manage to pass. It was both soul-crushing and invigorating, Seamus only felt more energy to do better, to succeed and prove the sour teacher wrong.

Neville sprinted out of the classroom leaving Seamus clueless as to where he was going or what he was doing. But the young Gryffindor had a mission he was set on and he would not be disrupted. The halls were densely packed with students but with his short height, Seamus was able to crouch and run through people shoving them out of the way lightly. Gryffindor tower had a few students crouched over books and various pieces of parchment. Seamus didn't stop to stare, he rushed past and up the spiral staircase until reaching the dorm. The glass window curtains were pulled closed, the only sounds were a soft purr from a cat and every once and a while a croak from Trevor (Neville's toad). There was no sign at all of human life. Seamus pushed himself to venture forward until he saw Dean face down on his bed cuddling his cat who purred loudly straight into his ear. A chuckle escaped him as he went and sat on his friend's bed, stroking his cat making it move towards him.

Dean had his arms squashed by his cat as he moved, he pulled himself up and blinked violently until he was awake enough to smile at his best friend. Seamus laid his results out in front of him and climbed fully into the bed crossing his legs.

"I'm desperate to know what you got so hurry this up"

Dean laughed and tore open the brown envelope. After a few seconds, he passed it over to Seamus with a proud but small smile.

History of Magic-B-
Astronomy-C
Potions-A+
Charms-B
Transfiguration-B
Defense Against the dark arts-B
Herbology-D

Seamus's jaw dropped to the ground. The boy laughed manically and then looked at the results once again.

"Do not show Neville. He might murder you. Your safety is at risk"

"How did he do? I know for sure he passed herbology"

"He technically passed everything but History and Astronomy"

"No worries we can help him, I'm guessing his potions result was a little low too? Snape hates him"

"Yeah it was just above a fail"

"And you?"

"I did fabulously of course"

He handed his results over proudly.

"Jesus Seamus! You got the same result as him in Potions-"

"It's Snape! He HATES me. He hates everyone."

Dean laughed and put the papers on the side.

"No worries. Just means you might have to do some more revision in your free time"

Seamus groaned loudly and dramatically fell to his side 'sobbing' to himself. Dean only laughed harder, holding his stomach. They talked more for a bit, filling each other in on their classes or dreams until it was time for Seamus to go off to class and Dean to go back to sleep after drinking a little more.

Charms were enjoyable as always however the very worked-up Seamus managed to burn his fingers. The journey to the hospital wing was a painful one but thankfully the nurse was not too busy. A simple spell helped for the most part but she went to go and get a potion that would dull the pain. While Seamus sat on the bed he couldn't help but notice another student. The stranger's back faced him but he was so sure it was Neville.

It took one minute for Seamus to decide he couldn't stop himself, so he walked over. It was Neville. Tears were falling down his face, he had dried blood in his nose and a deep cut on his lip. Other injuries were hidden under his clothes.

"Neville...What happened?"

Neville's face dropped, even more, he wiped off his tears and sniffed up the blood that started to fall once again.

"No. Nothing. No, No. I-I just fell. Those stairs, you know-"

"Stairs my ass. Neville what the-"

As if she could sense trouble, the nurse strutted into the room cutting off Seamus.

"Seamus, Mr Longbottom has been ordered to rest. However, you are perfectly fine to go to class with this"

Dropped into his palm was an oddly shaped glass bottle filled with a lilac liquid. Without hesitation Madam Pomfrey ushered Seamus out the door, closing it behind him. Seamus's heart sank into his chest as he looked back at the closed door. One of his best friends was in pain, not just physical too. He was clueless and now he felt like an idiot.

The rest of the charms Seamus spent staring blankly at a textbook, the alarming bell didn't faze him at all. The teacher had to throw a screwed-up piece of paper at him to make him leave. Like a ghost, he floated down the corridor and halls until he found himself outside, and sat on the grass as rain poured down from the sky.

Eventually, he walked up to the dorms and sat on Dean's bed.

"SEAMUS! YOU ARE DRIPPING ON MY BED...Why are you soaked?"

"Neville was in the infirmary"

"Why were you in the infirmary?"

"He was all beaten up and sad"

"Beaten up?"

"Yeah, he said that he fell but that's rubbish"

"Jesus"

Dean pulled himself up and looked towards Neville's bed.

"We might have to learn some curses or something..."

"No, what we need to do is tell McGonagall or someone"

"What will that do?"

"I don't know...it's an adult problem, we should get an adult involved. Magic is dangerous. if Neville's getting bullied an angry child with limited control could...well we both know what could happen" Dean placed his hand on his chest where his scars were, from when he and Seamus were attacked by Slytherins.

Seamus looked even more guilty but Dean started to get off his bed and put on some slippers.

"What are yo-"

"We are going to tell someone. Now."

Before Seamus could say something, Dean was passing him on the way to the door forcing Seamus to run after him. Professor McGonagall was sat in her office with her glasses down by the tip of her nose as she flicked through papers with both disappointment and anger painted on her face. When she heard the soft knock on the door, the teacher seemed overjoyed by the distraction. She welcomed the boys into her warm and cosy office with a small smile and an offer of tea and biscuits.

Both the Gryffindors sat down, Seamus shivering in his soaked uniform while Dean sat in his bright yellow pyjamas. With a careless wave of her wand and not a word or spell is spoken, all of Seamus's clothes were bone dry.

"Dean, have you received your grades yet?"

"Yes professor"

"And what is it I can do for you both this afternoon?" The professor looked at the clock and then back at the two students, "and during class, it seems"

Dean looked to Seamus. The boy's nerves made him hesitate but he looked at the wall behind the Professor.

"We think Neville is being bullied, badly. He was in the hospital wing earlier and he was bleeding and sad and he just hasn't really been himself recently...yeah"

"Thank you Mr Finnigan for bringing this to our attention. I assure you this school takes bullying very seriously and I will personally investigate this as much as I can. Now rest assured that this will be resolved as quickly as possible but you must leave it to me and go back to class. Or to bed, Mr Thomas"

And it seemed that was that. She seemed genuinely concerned but not at all surprised. Was there something she knew that they did not? Perhaps bullying is common? Which was worse? Seamus didn't know and his brain hurt too much to think about it anymore. Dean and Seamus walked in silence to the dorm.

At dinner, Neville sat with Harry and Ron as if he was the happiest person in the world. He sat with a wide grin and an energetic vibe but no matter what faces he pulled his eyes were glim and filled with sadness. Every one was blind to his struggles, up until now even Seamus was. The boy who spent most of the day with him. The boy who called him a friend. A good friend.

-Dean's Perspective-

'The muggles I share a home with,

Got the results and have sent them along with this letter. I am sooooo happy with them. Plus it means I don't really have to revise a lot. My friends struggled a little so we are gonna organise some revision sessions.

The cookies were absolutely amazing and Seamus agrees with me one hundred percent. His favourite was the Pancake and Bacon but mine was definitely the white chocolate lavender.

Neville, one of my friends, is being bullied. Or at least we think he is. I'm not sure what to do about it either. He doesn't wanna talk about it, he pretends that he's busy or doesn't know what we are talking about. The school can't do anything either because they haven't seen a thing. It's awful and absolutely horrifying to watch. Seamus and I are gonna sort it though.

How did Lizzie do? I assume she passed with flying colours. She's so smart it's almost daunting. I would ask her for help with revision but spells and potions might not be her strengths. I reckon if she read the books she'd be better than me. I hope the twins have done with the traps, just imagine them with magical pranks. Speaking of which when's their birthday again?

I miss you all and can't wait until the next holiday. I'll keep you updated on the wizardry world and the upcoming quidditch match. Gryffindor will win of course but I'll let you know how awesome they all were.

Lots of love,

Almost the smartest student in the year.'

The Gryffindor boy watched as Seamus's dark bird flew happily into the sky until it became a tiny black dot in the distance then nothing. Dean spent a whole few weeks trying to think of what to write to his parents. Writing it alone took a few days, he always got distracted or ran out of things to say or decided to scrap the whole thing and start again. Watching it fly away to its destination created a pit of anxiety in Dean's stomach.

The walk back down the tower was long and calming, he stopped by his dorm to grab his sketchbook along with a pencil. By the time he was outside the sky had darkened letting show the multitude of stars that glowed dimly in the sky. Gryffindor's on the quidditch team practised in the short hours that it took for the sun to drop and the moon to rise high. Dean liked this time too, so it was usual for him to sit on the stands while the team practised and draw. Lavender and Hermione were also commonly found in the stands. At first, it was lavender explaining the game to a clueless Hermione. It progressed to them just spending time talking and gossiping from the other end of the stands. Each day they began to get closer and closer to the silent Dean until today they were sat exactly in front of him.

"Wait so it was a Slytherin that almost beat you?"

"It wasn't a competition, they were only mocks"

"Who though? I assumed they were all surviving on threats and bribes"

"Draco Malfoy. One grade away from matching me..."

This was followed by a loud assortment of snorts, wheezing and violent breaths. Even Dean chuckled a little which earned him looks from both girls. He took the hint and shut up, going back to scratching his pencil over the paper.

"Draco? I didn't even know he can read."

"How else would he know how to curse already?"

"True. I just didn't expect it at all. He's such a knob"

Dean laughed again, quietly but not quietly enough. Both girls turned. Not with the look this time. Instead, they snatched the book he was holding and looked at the page.

"Oh..." Lavender looked at Dean with her eyebrows furrowed, "I just thought you could doodle?"

"I can doodle" Dean tried to reach for his book but had his hand slapped away.

"This isn't a doodle. This could be one of the portraits and no one would be able to tell the difference" Hermione held up her wand as a light to the page, examining the image closely. It was two of the older players on the brooms talking, it showed the dimples of one of the players as he smiled widely and the way the other held the bat so gently in his hand. That's all she could see before Dean desperately took the book from their reach.

"Is that why you sit out here? To draw the players?"

"Not always. I just like the clarity and quiet. Sharing a room with a boy that breaths fire and the chosen one is not calming or peaceful"

They both laughed and nodded along with him. Seamus was well known for his fire and Harry was famous.

"Well, Hermione is no picnic to share with either. Awake at all hours. Do you sleep at all?"

"You never stop talking. Even in the toilet"

Dean laughed as lavenders face lit up red, a very deep red. Hermione's hand slapped over her mouth while her eyes widened so much Dean feared they would pop out.

"Can't be worse than Neville. Sings in the shower and the worse part is, it's almost good"

Lavender's laugh seemed to last long enough for her face to again match the rest of her pale complexion. They stayed in the stands well into the night, past practice time and they rushed back only ten minutes before the curfew. Dean was teased for spending his night chatting up the ladies but honestly, he was just happy to be there with them. To listen to the gossip, add to it and make them smile. He was just happy.

Until he looked around and noticed Neville wasn't there. The others didn't know where he was either so they all went down to the vacant common room. While convincing Percy they needed to go for an emergency Dean slipped past him but the door to the common room slammed open and Neville fell, face first, through the doorway. Dean pulled his friend to his feet, eventually with the help of Seamus only to realise his feet has been put in a leg-lock curse. He was red with shame. Percy was quick to perform the counter curse while trying to question him but Ron threatened to embarrass him if he didn't leave.

Neville was sat down on the couch and consoled by Harry and Ron with chocolate and kind words, saying he was worth more than Malfoy. Way more. And everyone agreed with him because Neville was genuine and generous. Puts his whole heart into everything he does and loves even when it hurts. The fact he was a victim of abuse the way he is makes Dean's blood boil in a way he hadn't felt before. When Ron and Harry headed up Dean sat by Neville's side putting his hand on his friend's shoulder.

"Neville...If you want to tell McGonagall we ca-"

"NO! Sorry, sorry. No. She would have to tell my grandma, Not sure that'll be a good thing"

Seamus was pacing in front of the fireplace. His jaw clenched, hands balled up fiercely into fists and eyes wide with rage. Nothing external. No shouting, hitting or inhumane noises of anger. Instead, he paced until his limbs dropped into a more relaxed position and his rage slowly melted into guilt and sadness. The Irish lad sat on the other side of Neville and ruffled his friend's hair.

"Okay. Let's just sleep and...deal with it tomorrow after the match. Gryffindor vs Slytherin right?"

"Right"

Chapter Text

Saturday, 23rd May 1992

Harry was the first to wake on Saturday morning, the buzz of both his nerves and excitement fill the room like a plague. Dean tossed and turned all night, either too hot or too cold. Sometimes just woken from the whistles of the wind or the occasional cough from one of the other boys. The Londoner gave up trying around 5 AM. He heard Harry wake up, change and go out for an early morning run, shower then go through all the homework due for Monday. All while Dean lay gently petting the ginger cat that slept so soundly on his chest. As soon as Seamus was awake he climbed into his friend's bed sitting crossed-legged by his feet.

"Morning Thomas"

"Good morning Finnigan"

"Excited? This match is gonna be wicked!"

"Course. George is gonna drop off some Quidditch stuff for us to wear. Hats and scarfs and that, to show some more support to our dear friend Harold"

"MY NAME IS HARRY...Harold?"

Seamus laughed and poked his head out of the curtain to laugh at Harry personally then returned back to give his attention to Dean.

"We only have a little time left for breaky. You wanna head down now?" Seamus leaned across the bed petting the newly awake cat that was still weighing on Dean's chest.

"Yeah just gonna shower quick. Wake up, Neville. We can drag Ron down when we are ready"

Gently Rush was passed from Dean over to Seamus so that he could move freely. The Irish lad happily got comfortable on his friend's bed with his cat purring loudly on his lap. Dean woke up Neville as he left, knowing Seamus was most likely going to be occupied for a while.

When out of the shower Dean smiled seeing Neville and Seamus trying to pry Ron from his four-poster bed. Neville was wearing some light blue Jeans and a sweet crimson sweater while Seamus had Skinny dark blue jeans and a washed-out yellow shirt. Gryffindors colours. Dean smiled at the house pride. The boy climbed into some grey joggers and a dark red football jersey, to match his friends, to match Seamus. Finally ready to go and the only thing holding them back was the insufferable Ronald Weasley whose somewhat funny sleeping habit was now annoying. Dean got a good grip on the ginger's ankle and so did the other two, Harry was too busy laughing at them to help. A signal from Dean made all three of them pull until the boy was pulled from his bed and made to lay on the cold wooden floor of the dorm.

While their friend rubbed his eyes, Harry started insisting they head off quickly on their own. Dean wanted to stay but Seamus had a tight grip on his wrist and dragged him all the way to his seat at the Great hall which Dean believed to be overkill however Seamus thought himself to be cautious. With what had previously happened, Seamus faced the Slytherin table throwing harsh looks at Draco whenever he got the chance. Dean and Neville had their backs to the bully so they could eat in peace.

Percy was again sat with Oliver, listening to the boy as he rambled to his older teammates about different plays and teamwork and whatnot. Dean couldn't help but notice how when Percy reached for more food, most of the time it ended up on Oliver's plate. The Gryffindor captain didn't even seem to notice, he did notice as Harry passed. The older boy even tried to get him to sit with the team but Ron kept walking to sit with Hermione, as did Harry.

"What are you guys planning to do over the summer?" Neville smiled at his friends and even looked over to the girls wondering what they were doing.

"I'll probably end up helping out around the farm. Hopefully, be able to go London again, that was fun" Seamus flashed Dean a cheeky smile before continuing to demolish his full English piled onto his plate.

"You've been to London?" Lavender leaned over the table to get closer to Seamus but the boy didn't even bat an eye.

"Yeah went over to our dear...Mr Thomas's home during Christmas. He showed me all the places...well not all just like...a good few" Seamus explained between mouthfuls how it is the boy from Ireland who had been to the famous city of London. Lavender's interest in Seamus didn't flinch, not even for a second as she explained her plans.

"Well, I'll be spending my holidays in Spain. My whole family is going. I can't wait!" The young girl smiled brightly, probably imagining her great holiday. Dean was sure they would all hear about her amazing time in Spain, she was not a quiet girl. Then again, he puts up with Seamus so he's not scared of the upcoming storytimes from her.

"What are you doing Neville?" Asked Dean with a large smile on his face.

"Glad you asked Dean. My Grandmother is travelling for a week through my holidays, wanted to see if I could crash with one of you guys? If I have to go to my Uncles I will cry...Besides, I've never seen much of the muggle world before"

Dean and Seamus shared a look, not much was said but they seemed to understand what the other was saying, "We were thinking the same thing. Obviously not the whole saying with relatives thing. I would offer up my house but my mother is a bit...strange. Plus we have the annoyance of my aunt and stupid cousin"

"Leaving my place. I can ask my parents but I'm sure they'll say yes. Let me know the week you are out and I'll see if my sisters can go to their mums for a bit. London is expensive though so we might not be able to do much" Dean grabbed an apple from the fruit bowl and smiled, "I'll write to my parents tonight"

Neville wrapped his arms around Dean's neck and smiled happily to Seamus, "Thank you, Thank you, Thank you. You're saving my life."

Seamus laughed at the pair, as did Lavendar and Parvati while Dean just accepted his fate. "Okay okay. No worries! Like we said we wanted to hang out throughout the holidays anyways"

"Plus at Deans, you'll get food from a first-class chief as well as a tour guide for one of the most famous cities in the world."

"Tour guide? I barely know my way around myself. I have to bring a map when going more than half an hour from my house"

"Here I thought you'd be useful"

"You'd still be in my home. With my family. Most likely sleeping in my room"

"But would you personally be useful?"

"...sometimes you really annoy me"

"Charming aren't I?"

"Christ"

While Dean and Seamus bickered between them everyone else continues until finally, it was time. The teams of both houses were cheered out while the rest of the students filed out, heading happily towards the stands that surrounded the pitch. On the way down Dean and Seamus were pulled to the side by the troublesome twins. The two older students sang so loud the first-years couldn't get a single word in. Instead, they smiled as yellow and red scarves were wrapped around their necks. Seamus was even given a little flag to wave around in the stands; his eyes widened and glistened as if he was looking at the best thing ever. Held it like that too. Dean was almost jealous.

The twins skipped away arm in arm, still singing loudly handing out more flags to empty-handed first-years making their way down. Most of whom were not even in Gryffindor. Fred and George's singing reached miles, all the way from the castle and deep into the forbidden forest. Seamus spent the rest of the walk waving his flag at Hufflepuffs and when there were none to be found the flag was waved in the face of his best friend and partner in crime Dean Thomas. While slapping it away countless times annoyingly, Dean never lost the wide smile on his face.

The stands were high, very high in fact. Lavender seemed to have reserved the first row so eventually, it was filled with her friends. Neville, Seamus, Dean, Parvati with Lavender of course, as well as Ron and Hermione. Course the seats were dismissed and the children were hanging off the railings cheering for the team that wasn't even in sight yet. The only stand that wasn't quite literally shaking with anticipation what the teacher's stand. When the Hufflepuff team came out, there were some cheers from them and some light sportsmen cheering from the Gryffindors. Dean even high-fived one of the members, and Seamus shook his shoulders laughing. When the Gryffindor team came flying out it was a whole different story. The stands were shaking like an earthquake was hitting, rocking back and forth, discharging a vast amount of cheers and screams.

Harry hovered over his friends flashing them the biggest smile Dean had ever seen from the boy. This only seemed to make the crowds scream louder. Oliver was the only other member to interact with the audience before the match. He flew over to Percy, stood on the railing and whispered something to him but flew away before Percy could reply. The Weasley boy was left blushing in the stands while Oliver flew around carelessly and then to his position with the rest of his team.

About twenty minutes into the game Malfoy and his two insufferable goons pushed their way to the front and stood next to Neville. Immediately Seamus moved Neville between himself and Dean, standing next to the blonded freak.

"Can't imagine being so desperate for players, they chose the patheticness that is Potter"

Malfoy laughed at his own statement with the other two then continued on his rant.

"Then again, they could've picked Neville"

Seamus was held back by Neville who didn't even flinch as the words left the Slytherin's mouth.

"Go away Malfoy. You are clearly not wanted here" Dean's attempt to diffuse the tension was only ignored. By both parties.

"They could've picked Thomas over there. The useless mudblood probably doesn't know what the game is"

Dean heard the thud, the blonde boy was on the floor gripping his nose and continuing to throw punches at him was not Seamus, as he thought. But instead was Neville. Seamus was busy holding back Crabbe and Goyle with Ron. Lavender pulled back Dean while the boys fought, Draco was covered in blood and Neville was now covered in Draco's blood. The teachers came over to stop it eventually, sending them all to the hospital wing. Dean went too but insisted the girls stayed and enjoyed the match.

The Gryffindors and Slytherins were put on different sides of the room. Neville had some damage to his hand and a little bruise on his jawline, Ron had some bruises on his stomach and Seamus had a broken nose as well as a cut on his lip and some bruises on his back. The curtains were drawn around each of the beds so that everyone could cool down. The Londoner quickly popped over to see Seamus and told him he was gonna see Neville quickly. Seamus nodded happily and waved him off.

Neville was pale, shivering and clutching his hand tightly. Dean walked to stand in front of him and started to wipe the boy's hand down with some tissue, cleaning the blood and revealing the bruises across his knuckles.

"You okay Neville?"

"He shouldn't have called you that"

Neville's voice was dim and broken. Quiet like Deans.

"It wasn't worth this Neville...but thank you" Dean smiled and squeezed his hand lightly. Madam Pomfrey drew back the curtain and then glared at Dean.

"I need to assist with his injuries, Mr Thomas could you be elsewhere"

Taking that into consideration Dean went back to Seamus, the boy was taking his injuries like they were nothing. But from what his friend could see it was a broken nose and a little cut on his cheek. Dean sat down on the bed with his legs stretching over Seamus's lap. The boy laid back on the bed and looked at the ceiling.

"You must be sick of this room"

"Yup..."

For a while, they sat in silence. They could hear Madam Pomfrey go around to each of them, giving them potions and muttering spells at their injuries and one by one the students were leaving until it was just Seamus left to be seen. The curtain was fully drawn back, now exposing the boys to the entire room. Which was vacant. Usually, Hufflepuffs play with a lesser violent tactic so the emergency trips to the hospital wings were at a minimum. The older woman immediately pointed her wand at the Irish lad's nose mending it with a sharp click that made Dean cringe and shoots up.

"Was that all? Are you hurt anywhere else?" It seemed the nurse was checking him for a concussion while interrogating the poor boy.

"Um...Yeah actually. It's my back.."

"Let's see what we can do"

The woman stepped back to let Seamus take off his shirt but the boy couldn't get it past his ribs, his arms gave up and he looked to Dean who was already climbing out of the bed. From behind him, Dean took the shirt from Seamus and gently pulled it off him, a red and purple mix of colours was blotched across his entire back. Madam Pomfrey had to guide Dean back to the bed and then started working silently. For Dean, it seemed impossible for someone to have this many injuries and be so unphased. Or at least act so unphased. The broken nose was one thing but the bruises were another altogether. The pain he must've been going through while just sitting, waiting patiently for every single other person to be seen before him. With both the boys facing opposite directions Dean was glad Seamus couldn't see his face, the boy grabbed his friend's shoulder leaning his head on it gently.

"I wonder who's winning"

"Have some faith, Thomas. Harold will do us proud"

Dean laughed quietly and watched the nurse fix up his friend.

"I'm not too sure he'll like that name being used"

"Well, it's too late now. I have erased the name Harry Potter from my mind. Harold is the only Potter I know. Honestly Dean where did that come from? I don't even know a Harold. Do they exist?"

"Course they do...I think it's just the old men left now. No one in this generation would have the name, Harold. It would be classed as child abuse"

Madam Pomfrey sent him a stern look for the joke but didn't say anything since it made the patient laugh.

"Haha yeah! That and the name Nigel"

"Never liked Gertrude either actually"

"Oooo that was a good one"

They both laughed and even Madam Pomfrey cracked a smile. Before they knew it, Seamus was given a potion to reduce his pain but they were told to hurry back to their dorm as it could make him sleepy. For the most part of the journey across the school, they were quiet. As were the halls. The match was still in place so the halls were quite literally dead. Not a soul in sight. Even the ghosts were watching the match. Throughout the hall Seamus's eyes started to become weak and drowsy, Dean tried to drag him along but it seems Madam Pomfrey underrated the powerful effect of her potion.

"I'm tired...can we just-"

"No no no no no please Seamus...You can't sleep here"

"Just for a minute"

The drowsy boy collapsed into the wall and slowly sank until he was just laying on the ground, his head leaning on the rugged stones of the castle. Dean stared at his friend and attempted to wake him up in various ways. He then tried to drag him but Seamus whispered 'ouch' which immediately sent Dean into a spiral of apologises until the boy sat down next to his friend. With nothing else to do Dean pulled out the wand from his back pocket and started uttering Lumos for a while. Trying to keep the light strong for as long as possible. Dean lost track of time and drifted to sleep at some point, when he woke up Seamus's head was on his lap and students were back inside, filing through the halls. Not too many since it was still a Saturday and celebrations were still due to be happening. The Irish lad was still sound asleep, his sandy hair now tangled and disorderly. Dean put away the wand he clutched so tightly in his hand and began to shack away Seamus, gently pushing his shoulder back and forth.

The big green eyes inspected the face of his friend intensely, Dean was a little nervous until the cheeky grin of Seamus Finnigan appeared brightly on his face. The boy didn't get off his lap but instead rubbed his eyes and leaned into him further.

"Why are we in the hall?"

"You couldn't make it to the dorm so here we are. The hall is right next to the Gryffindor tower but just not quite there"

Seamus laughed and covered his face with his arm and groaned.

"I haven't slept that well in a while"

"While on the floor? In the cold? Without Ronald snoring?"

The boy only laughed more and turned to dig his face into Dean's stomach before slapping his shoulder and pulling himself up to sit next to him. A few Ravenclaws walked past giving them weird looks but the look Seamus gave them scared even Dean. Thanks to the little nap Dean had to help Seamus up and help him walk to the common room. The loud and excessive cheering coming from the tower hinted slightly as to which team won the match. The door was pinned open and all they could see were bodies of red and yellow with Harry being held on the shoulders of Fred and George who were screaming so loud Seamus swore he could see the windows rattle. Neville and Ron were smiling and cheering happily with little to no injuries thankfully. Once they stepped over the threshold the Gryffindors girls rushed over to check up on Seamus who could barely keep up with all three of them so looked to Dean to help him out. The girls disappeared back into the crowd once Dean told them his friend was good.

Seamus tried to escape into the crowd but Dean grabbed his wrist tightly and followed him in for a bit. Harry waved at them but was being carried around the room like a king. People cheered like he was too. Seamus was jumping with the crowd but could barely get his feet off the ground. It was like he was running on his last percentage. Dean, still tightly gripping Seamus's wrist, started to jump closer to the stairs until he was dragging Seamus up. No one could hear the screams coming from the walking dead as he was being heaved up the stairs.

"Come on. It looks like you are about to drop"

"I'm about to throw you down these stairs Thomas. Let. Me. Go."

"Throw me and I will...I'll...For god's sake Seamus please go to bed"

"I don't wanna sleep while you and Neville and literally everyone else party until deep into the night"

"I'll stay up too. We can hang out until you feel better"

Seamus stopped struggling and stared up at his friend.

"Promise?"

"I Promise"

The pout on Seamus's face made Dean laugh as he continued to drag, with less pull from the victim, until they had reached the dorm. Both boys collapsed on Dean's bed and were welcomed by Rush as soon as their heads hit the mattress. Seamus fell asleep with the ginger kitten curled up close to his chest while Dean sat on the foot of his bed trying to take up the least amount of room. The promise was kept though. Dean didn't leave Seamus, instead, he started on the homework that was due the next week and once that was done he started to read ahead in a few subjects. It got dark quickly and the flood of noise began to seep into the room. By pulling closed the curtain, the noise dulled but only barely.

Dean stayed awake for the majority of the night. Way past the end of the party which went on until around 1 AM for the older years. He heard Neville come back quite early with Ronald and Harry following close behind, Percy gave Ron a long talk about how he was following the awful influences of Fred and George.

Sunday, 24th May 1992

The sun was non-existent on this miserable Sunday, when Dean finally woke up it was across the foot of his bed with his face squashed into the wooden backboard of the frame. The dorm was empty of everyone, only the thin fabric was around the bed so it was easy to see the abandonment he faced. Truthfully it was quite late in the morning and he didn't blame them at all. Even his cat was nowhere to be seen. Probably exploring the great outdoors. Once Dean closed his eyes, for only a moment, he was fast asleep again.

When, for the second time, he woke up he wasn't alone. Seamus was on the floor, leaning on Dean's bed with a book open on his lap. On the nightstand were a full English and a large glass of orange juice. Dean climbed over to the other side of the bed and started on his breakfast, scoffing it down as quickly as possible and then washing it down with orange juice. The food wasn't hot, not even a little bit but Dean inhaled it so fast the boy did not even notice. Seamus looked up from his book for a moment to watch as his friend shamelessly devoured the food, laughed and then went back to reading. Dean laid down and leaned his head on Seamus's shoulder, reading the book. Potions seem to be the subject for today, the poor boy was probably trying to up his grade after his low score in the mocks.

"Thanks for breakfast"

"That was actually supposed to be my brunch..you're welcome I guess?"

"Shut up"

Seamus slammed his book shut and tossed it to the side and smiled at his friend, pushing his forehead backwards so he fell back on the bed.

"You've slept for ages. You go out partying recently?"

"Nah had to stay in and babysit the idiot who got beat up"

"Ouch. Hurry up and get dressed so we can go revise with the others"

Dean huffed but got up changing into a pair of grey joggers and a blue worn-out hoodie. He packed a bag with books, notes and his wand then looked to Seamus who had a singular pen.

"You gonna revise with just a pen?"

"Course not. That's why you packed a bag"

"So what your saying is...you couldn't live without me?"

Dean smirked while his friend gave him a disgusted look and started heading down the spiral staircase with Dean now chasing after him. In the library all the first-year Gryffindors were revising together, they had pushed three relatively large tables together and were in the corner. The table had books scattered, some open, some untouched. Two seats between Neville and Hermione were open, Dean rushed to the corner which meant he was sitting next to Hermione which was a massive betrayal to Neville.

End-of-year exams were soon and many students were panicking. Year 7 students make the school seem like ground 0 for a zombie apocalypse. The other older years are less stressed but worry the teachers also. A lot of people ignore the first years but the pressure they were under was real. This was the first time they face a serious test that could actually alter their life in some way.

Around one hour into revising Dean heard the dead, flat voice of professor Severus Snape soar through the room. This opportunity was not wasted as Dean basically climbed over the table and rushed over to him much to Snape's surprise.

"Professor...um.."

"I am a very busy man Mr Thomas. Make this quick and painless please"

"Could I practise brewing the boil-cure potion today? I will tidy up after..."

"You perfected that already"

"Yes but Seamus boiled his and I wanted him to go over it before the exams"

"So you ask for your friends?... Not sure I trust Seamus in my classroom...Luckily for you, I have lots of homework to mark so I will be there for an hour or so. I will not be assisting you in any way...unless maybe something catches fire"

"Thank you so much Professor" Dean smiled widely at his teacher then rushed over to Seamus to share the great room. Seamus did not believe it was as great as Dean was making out, and even seemed a little disappointed.

"Look you need to work on potions anyway so just get up"

"But I don't like him. I don't wanna spend any more time with him than I'm forced to"

"This is me forcing you to"

Seamus spent the short little walk huffing and puffing making the trip seem so much longer than it was supposed to be. The teacher was at his desk going through papers rolling his eyes anytime he flicked to the next page. At first, the two students were quiet but slowly they began talking louder and louder until they didn't care. The ingredients were being collected as well as all the equipment they needed but then Dean climbed onto the table opposite watching his friend.

"Go on then"

"Though we were doing this together"

"You have the method, we've been over it like twenty times and I'll be here to stop you from destroying it too badly. There is nothing to worry about."

"I will blame all damages on you then. Your responsibility."

Dean just nodded and crossed his legs. Seamus was hesitant at first, he'd go back and forth checking the ingredients again and again. Then he would read the method, again and again. But once he got going it was fine, he would ask Dean questions however the observer only asked the question back to him rephrased. They avoided talking while Seamus was actually concentrating but did while it was brewing. Nothing serious as Snape was also in the room but mostly about revision and what they needed to work on. Exams started next week so the teachers had enough time to mark and give out the results.

One and a half hours later Seamus called over Dean to come and check what he'd done and it ended with them cheering, jumping up and down as well as them hugging each other. The professor rose from his desk to inspect the potion as well, his eyebrow shot up and he down at Seamus.

"Not a complete failure I see. You should learn from Dean more often"

Seamus returned a bright smile to the teacher which made him look away and to the potion instead.

"Clean this up and get out"

With that cheery goodbye, Snape left the two students to dispose of the potion and tidy up which took them close to an hour meaning they had sadly missed lunch. The house elves were more than happy to make them some sandwiches, they spent the rest of the day watching the rain batter the earth from a drafty window in a random hallway. That very night Harry and Ron seemed to be acting slightly stranger than they usually would. Whispering more and telling the others to head to bed early because sleep would help them revise better. Of course, everyone questioned them but it wasn't a bad suggestion so like a normal sensible student Dean climbed into bed and fell asleep almost instantly.

A sudden cold feeling waved over Dean in the pitch-black pit that was their dorm. Leaning over his slightly was a silhouette of a figure that made Dean's heart pound violently against his lungs. The boy shoved the figure and scrambled up, slamming his back against the bed frame and bunching the blanket over himself like it was a shield. A light was emitted from the end of Seamus's wand as he got up from that sudden attack.

"Just me..."

Dean squinted, not only was he so cold he could feel his bones shiver but he could also see his breath.

"What's wrong? Are you okay" Once more aware than he was, Dean inspected his friend seeing nothing but a concerned look painted on his face.

"Everyones gone"

Seamus stood and handed Dean his wand. With both their wands used for light, the room was glowing. It was also vacant. All the beds were empty and the door was ajar. Seamus's eyes were stuck on Dean, he could feel them follow him as he headed for the door.

"What are you doing?"

"We'll look around for a bit. If we don't find them I think we'll have to get...Percy"

Seamus nodded and rushed over to Dean, staying glued to his back. It didn't take them long to find Neville however the state they found him in shook them to the very core. The boy lay, completely frozen, by the common room door. Seamus ran to his side grabbing his wrist and shoulder, trying to shake him awake.

"Neville?...NEVILLE!...He's not waking up Dean. What do we do?"

"Stay with him. I'll get Percy"

Percy wasn't happy at all to be woken from his slumber but not a negative word was uttered at all after seeing the tears Dean had started to form in his eyes. Madam Pomfrey was called and retrieved Neville. The boys wanted to go with him but had to be questioned by the teachers. Not just McGonagall but also Dumbledore. They didn't seem shocked but instead told the Gryffindors to do back to bed.

"No"

"Mr Finnigan, Professor Dumbledore and I will find out what has happened to Neville but we can't allow students to be up at this time of night. Your friend is in good hands"

"No. I want to see Neville."

"Mr Finnigan, I insist-"

"It's fine Minerva, I'm sure Neville will need some friends when he awakes"

With permission from Dumbledore, the two boys didn't hesitate to head down to the hospital wing. They tried to stay awake but eventually, they drifted, sat beside their best friend, and curled up in uncomfortable plastic chairs.

Chapter Text

The night was brutal. While outside was calm, while all students slept soundly, Seamus and Dean sat next to their friend with Percy Weasley pacing the room. Dumbledore was nowhere to be seen. McGonagall watched as her colleague performed the counter spell on the young Gryffindor relaxing his muscles and freeing him from the curse. Dean took his hand while Seamus basically sat on his feet. The boy's eyes were weak, droopy really. It was like he was fighting with himself to stay awake.

"Neville...Do you remember who performed this spell on you?"

Neville looked to both his friends and then back to McGonagall who was being shadowed by Percy.

"Um...no?"

"This is serious, Mr Longbottom. Someone did this to you and left you, who knows for how long. This will not be tolerated so I ask again, who performed this curse on you?"

The boy took some time. Looking to both his friends for guidance, Dean squeezed his hand and Seamus shot him a warm, tired smile. Neville leaned his head back and bit his lip nervously.

"I'm sorry, I don't remember"

Dean almost admired Neville's loyalty but it also meant the attacker was a friend. It hurt to even think about either Ron or Harry doing something so stupid and reckless to Neville of all people.

"If that's what you wish. Remember my door is always open. Percy, you can go back if you wish."

McGonagall went to the office waiting for the nurse to accompany her once she was done. The nurse prepared two more beds knowing the other two will be staying the night with their friend and dragging them back to the Gryffindor tower would be a wasted effort. Dean pulled his chair over and held tightly to his friend's hand. After a few deep breaths, tears fell from Neville's eyes, and the boy sobbed, gasping for air when he could. Seamus moved up to the top of the bed and hugged him, with the boy's face tucked into his chest while his friend rubbed his back.

"I just wanted to stop them...I just...I wanted to be brave...like Harry"

Dean sat on the bed frowning at his friend as he fell to pieces before him.

"Neville you are brave. I'm still unsure of what happened and we will be here when you want to tell us if you do but Harry has nothing on you. Harry wasn't there to defend me against Malfoy. That was you. Harry certainly didn't partner up with Seamus in Potions and have to deal with the potion either blowing up or melting through the cauldron. That's you. Harry is great don't get me wrong but he's not you."

Neville seemed only to sob harder which at first made Dean quite nervous but eventually he pulled back and looked at Dean.

"I'll tell you tomorrow. I'm tired of today. You guys can go if you want I'll be-"

"Not a chance in hell Neville. Don't even try to stop us, you'll be both outnumbered and outsmarted."

Seamus quickly interrupted and passed his friend a box of tissues before jumping into the bed next to the actual patient. Percy was still present, the boy filled up three glasses of water handing them out to the first-years walking like he was undead. The Weasley prefect got out some extra blankets and then ended up standing beside Neville's hospital bed.

"Did you guys need anything?"

"No, I think we're good. You should go, you need sleep"

"Thanks, Neville"

"Yeah go away, you look awful"

"...I never liked you, Finnigan"

"Oh, the pain" Seamus looked Percy dead in the eye with a straight face until he left the hospital wing with a massive strop on.

With Neville on the bed closest to the nurse’s office, the other two took over the beds on the other side of the patient with Dean furthest away. Neville was sound asleep as soon as silence flooded through the room, Seamus was watching over his friend as he slept. Dean drifted before Seamus. Most likely his friend didn’t sleep.

Throughout the night, Dean heard mumbles and shuffling. Quiet and muffled by the blue curtain drawn around his bed, done at some point while he slept. The disturbance didn’t wake him until the soft glow of the sun invades the little shelter he had. The whispers were louder now, clearer. He heard the soft voice of Madam Pomfrey as well as the stern and focused tone of McGonagall until it faded down the room and the large oak doors slammed shut. Dean groaned quietly as he sat up, the wooden floors were cold but thankfully his shoes were exactly where he’s left them. Once he had feeling in his toes, the young Gryffindor pulled back his curtain to find that five more beds were occupied. All shielded for privacy reasons, he’d guessed. The nurse was quick to realise he was awake. The women gently led him back to the bed and refilled his water as she spoke to the young boy.

“The others are still asleep and it’s quite early, is there any way you could try and get more rest?”

“Do you have any books? I’ll just read until they get up”

The woman disappeared for a few moments before coming back with a fairly hefty book, the front had various plants plastered in cold over the black background.

“It’s all I have that I believe will interest you. Professor Snape told me about your talents in Potion”

Dean smiled at the woman and opened the book. It was a beautiful story about a pureblood wizard during an age early in time discovering the power of nature and inventing hybrids of plants and magic to help the injured. The man was young, and talented but rejected being a warrior to find peace in being an inventor and a healer. He was shamed, judged and treated cruelly by those he believed he could trust. Dean was so invested in the book, he didn’t notice how much time had passed nor that his friends were now awake. Seamus had to jump over his friend to snap him from the trace he was in. The Irish boy was spread out across his friend, his head to the side of Deans scanning the pages of the book he held.

“This is?”

“Something I could do waiting for you lot to finally wake up”

Seamus laughed into his friend's shoulder, “So mean. Neville just said the same thing while shaking me awake as if I was dead or something.”

Dean smiled down at his friend and slammed his book shut looking around the room which was more open than before, “Neville alright?”

“Yeah yeah. Very chirpy. He just went to ask the house elves for some breakfasts to be sent up” Seamus took the book from Dean, placing it gently on his nightstand but out of the boy's reach. “He slept well too, didn’t even flinch when the second wave arrived” He gestured at the hospital bed opposite him which was now exposed, all curtains were drawn back. The blinding red hair was the first to catch Dean’s eye, Sitting on the bed next to Ronald was Hermione, crouched over a large book held open on her lap. One bed over was Harry Potter, sleeping peacefully without a care in the world.

“What happened to you lot?” Dean pulled himself off, pushing Seamus at the same time ignoring the boy's groans and sighs. Hermione looked up from her book and then at Ronald who returned the same look.

“Um…Well long story” Ronald started but was iinterrupted by Neville who walked over to Dean's bed avoiding looking at the other guests.

“It ain’t like we got places to be, is it?” Seamus got himself comfortable as he and Dean laid back in the bed with Neville sitting on the chair next to his hospital bed.

With a heavy sigh and a nod from Hermione the redhead begun his story.

“It started with us looking around the third-floor corridor, it was spooky and demonic. Got worse when Flinch started poking around so we hid in a room with a three headed dog we later found out was called Fluffy…Blame Hagrid. Anyway, we found out about this Philosphor stone which is supposed to make normal metal into like gold or silver. Moving on we went back and someone else had distracted the dog with music so we went into the chamber through a trap door and landed in these vines that almost choked us to death.”

“It was Devil Snare and the only reason you almost died was because you didn’t listen to me and relax” Hermione quickly added only to have Ronald roll his eyes and continue as if he’d heard nothing.

“Next we were in a tiny room with hundreds if not thousands of tiny keys with wings. Harry managed to catch the only one with a broken wing and that unlocked the door to yet another room with a giant chest board. We got into positions and played but I had to sacrifice my knight. Hermione got help at that point but Harry continued. He then had a face-off with Professor Quill of all people, who was trying to steal the stone for himself. Turns out the man had a second face on the back of his head. Anyway he died, whoops, then Harry passed out and here we all are. Hanging out in the hospital wing”

The three Gryffindors sat for a while, trying to both process and visualise what they’d just be told.

“What did the stone look like?”

Everyone turned to Seamus, even the nurse paused and looked at the strange boy. Out of the whole story laid out in front of them, the Irish kid only wanted a description of a pretty jewel. The group of kids erupted into laughter waking both Harry and half the school while they were at it. Harry was filled in and as soon as he was up to speed he described to Seamus what the Philosopher stone looked like, a rather small red stone. Creative writing wasn’t what the Potter child was good at but saving a priceless jewel from his evil teacher sorta made up for it in Dean's eyes. Hermione took the chance of silence to quietly apologise to Neville. Dean and Seamus shot each other puzzled looks while Harry and Ron averted their gaze away from the group, Hermione looked sadly at Neville who only had eyes for his hands.

“It’s fine. I know now why you did it…”

Seamus shot up from the bed, standing beside his friend as he shouted across to Hermione who looked riddled with guilt. “It was you? You left him in the cold-ass common room, basically paralyzed to go play heroes?”

“We had to-”

“No. Paralyzing your friend was not the only option available. Talking to him was an option. Explaining it was an emergency. What is wrong with you? Even McGonagall thought it was cruel” Hermione gave Seamus a scared look which only made Seamus angrier“Don’t worry, Neville is a loyal and kind friend. Clearly, something you can’t grasp”

While the complexion in his face reddened and the words he was shouting only loudened Dean took it upon himself to start pulling his friend away from the whole situation and eventually led him outside. It seemed the other students were pulled into an assembly to be explained the events so no other soul was to disturb the yelling Seamus was doing. Sometimes Dean even thought that some of the things he was shouting weren’t even English words but priorities made him bury that curiosity. Luckily for them, it wasn’t raining but the sky was still grey and the air crisp, sharp when being shot at them by the wind. Slowly but eventually the rageful bellowing died down until the boy folded up, resting on the damp grass by the lake. His face stil flushed from his angry cries that left him somewhat breathless. Dean settled himself beside his friend, picking at the grass for a bit. After a while he started to snap twigs and throw the pieces far into the dark water, only to watch them float over the small ripping waves of the Black Lake. Seamus watched it while his breathing steadied and his mood settled. Not a word was uttered, Dean didn’t say anything when his friend shuffled around, trying to lay on the uneven, moist grass comfortably, nor when he ended up resting his head on Dean’s lap. The boy had his eyes closed, his features relaxed and calm as he lounged, using his friend's legs as a pillow to aid in his comfort.

“You okay?”

Dean's concerned tone was brushed off by an almost agreeable noise that Seamus made while bouncing his head on his friend's thigh, like it would make it comfier or something. The non-verbal answer resulted in Dean rolling his eyes and flicking his friend's forehead.

“Use your words…usually you can’t stop talking-”

Seamus laughed while rubbing the now red blotch planted on his forehead.

“Yeah well, now I have to recover from that quite violent attack. Didn't think you had it in you, Thomas. I am shocked. Horrified even”

Seamus only stopped once his friend's hand clamped over his mouth stopping him from making anything clearer than scrambled muffles. Dean pouted at his friend but refrained from rolling his eyes yet again.

“It’s good to know I can still surprise you at least”

Seamus leaned back, putting more pressure onto Dean’s thigh but his big beady eyes looked up at him softly. It seemed for a moment at least he was going to say something. The boy ended up recoiling back looking up at the dull sky.

“Hermione apologised”

“She still did it. Left hi-”

“No one denies that. But it was a bad situation. Not enough time to think, not enough time to explain. She did what she thought was best but apologied for her mistake. Apologised for the worry she caused, the girls probably riddled in guilt and shame about what she did.”

“It just made me so angry. He sobbed in my arms after having lied to protect her. I couldn’t do anything”

“No. Don’t even go there. You comforted him. That’s all he needed at the time, he didn’t need you to yell at Hermione while she said sorry. She certainly didn’t need it. Take a few breaths next time. You can’t go rushing off, especially not when you're angry.”

Seamus turned to face the black lake, away from Dean probably to pout or roll his eyes. A dramatic huff was all Dean got back from that. The sky never cleared from the clouds that hid away the sun, the grass never dried and the boys didn’t move. They stayed enjoying each other's company, spread across the grass watching the students file out of the school slowly. Only a few of them decided to venture out of the warm castle to spend a few minutes in the cold before running back outside. Seamus took comfort and warmth from Dean as he cuddled next to his friend. Dean took his comfort in the cold, in watching the steam disppear into the air, the numbing sensation creeping slowly up his finger and even in watching his friend curl up into himself shivering softly but not going inside. The majority of the day flew by, occasionally sleeping or chatting but mostly in prolonged silences. Enjoying the company more than anything.

Neville came traipsing through the grounds heading straight to his friends, coated in layers and layers of clothing, the last being a very thick and weighty cloak that he threw over his friends once finally reaching them. Seamus was sleeping so didn’t even notice his face being covered, Dean gave Neville a small smile as he sat beside him facing the lake.

“Have you guys been out here this entire time? It’s freezing” Neville pulled his legs into his chest and breathed into his cupped hands.

“Yeah but Seamus’s head is hot enough to power an entire country so I’m good” Dean smiled and pulled the cloak from over his friend's face, he flicked it so it was covering his entire body making Seamus shiver rapidly decrease.

“Hermione apologised again…I’m not angry at her, not anymore. We talked after you guys left. How’s he?”

“He’s fine. Just a little angry but once he’s heard you guys are okay then he’ll be right as rain”

Neville nodded and looked down at Seamus for a while before pulling his ear until he woke up slapping his hand away.

“It’s past lunch. You lot will start wasting away if you don’t eat. Plus I think you are both going a bit blue. Or purple…your changing colours okay so let’s go and get some food inside the nice warm castle”

Seamus rubbed his eyes and wrapped the cloak around himself tighter before looking back at Neville.

“When did you get here?”

Neville was already on his feet, dragging Seamus up so Dean could escape but once he stood he felt the numbing on his thigh from where his friend had squashed his leg for hours on end. Seamus giggled which only set Neville off too. Both off his friends helped him hop up the grounds towards the castle until he could finally feel his leg and walk without tipping over. Dean, being the house elves' favourite student out of the lot of them, went to the kitchens to request some lunch while the other two headed up to the dorms. Hermione hated the idea of going into their dorm so thankfully those three are never in it. They always find somewhere else to go and hang out. The house elves packed a little basket filled to the brim with sandwiches, pork pies, little bowls of fruit, plenty of crisps and odd little snacks that they knew they would like. Tarts for Seamus’s insufferable sweet tooth. Sausage rolls for Neville and Dean never seemed to have a preference when it came to food but they did give him a little chocolate to have for himself before he reached the dorms. He thanked them profusely and quickly headed up to share the goods with his friends.

Tea that evening was what reunited the Gryffindor first-years. There was no tension at all. Any shown that very morning seemed to have disintergrated into thin air. Hermione and Seamus were childishly bickering about the best use of a charm they had recently learned with Ronald chipping in every once and a while only to be told to shut up by everyone. Harry was being bombarded with questions which were mostly Parvati and Neville while Lavender and Dean chatted away until the girl's attention was drawn to something better. Dean was just happy to be there. It felt like home. Chaos raining down, loud chatting, laughter and banter. Everything was good and happy. The tension mostly hung over the teachers, specifically the empty chair that was once reserved for the timid Defense against the dark arts teacher that could barely hold eye contact.

“Dean knows, right Dean…OI THOMAS”

Seamus's screech ran loudly in his ear as he snapped his head to his friend.

“What?”

“You weren’t even listening were you?”

“...no?”

“How bloody rude? That blue sparkly spell”

“If you pass your exams it’ll be a miracle, Seamus”

“Well if you start praying now you never know”

Exams that year were nothing for Dean, he liked revising, answering questions, and helping his friends but Seamus didn’t feel the same. He ran into a pure panic during those last few days before exams, they were spread over a week and a half and to quote Seamus they were ‘more painful than any curse ever performed’. Dean was close to slapping him but Neville was quicker. The weeks left at school were mostly spent chilling. Deans parents were happy to have both boys around there for a week in the holidays which made Neville’s Grandmother very happy along with Seamus’s mother. Rush was excited to finally get a tour of the castle, the house elves fell in love with the ginger cat but shunned it from the kitchens yelling about how unhygienic it was. Whoops. Teachers were rarely seen. Too busy marking the hundreds of tests so that the results could be handed out before the students left the school for the summer. Neville was torn away from Dean and Seamus a lot more during the last weeks of school, probably to make up for the little incident in the common rooms. Oliver was outside every single day and chased inside by Percy every single day. Like clockwork. Seamus and Dean would laugh as the quidditch frantic would be dragged by his ear to the library to study. The Weasley twins would often play pranks around the school, they’re strange relationship with Seamus meant they would always give cryptic hints as to what was going to happen and where. Sometimes Dean would be dragged to go and watch it unfold or see its effects themselves. Other times, like with the dung bombs, they knew to stay well away. The teachers did not appreciate the extra pain but the students found it hilarious. Those not victim of these pranks anyways. Seamus’s mood dulled slightly when the year began to come to an end. With the others, he was the same as usual. Too much energy for anyone to comprehend. But when hanging with Dean he seemed a little drained, in a distant haze.

Dean was okay with just being with him, without all the jokes and endless activities. Seamus even started to fall asleep in Dean's bed during the last week. The first time Dean thought it was a mistake but Seamus hung in his friend's bed a little later than usual, when he suggested a sleepover tears formed in Seamus’s eyes. The rest of the week was the same without any suggestions. The Gryffindors were a little sad to leave, Neville was excited to be able to visit his parents again and tell them about the rest of the school year along with his grandmother, Ron was going to have to deal with being in the same house as all his siblings again, Hermione threw back into the muggle world, Harry back with his abusive aunt and uncle, Dean back with his sisters and friends and Seamus would be home, with his folks.

Friday 26th June, 1992

Enormous green banners hung down from the ceiling, with large white snake silhouettes plastered on the front. A vast number of students filed into the great hall taking in the warmth and welcoming tones of the room. The torches were lit, stars in the sky shone brightly and cutlery glimmered in the lights of them. The teachers were dressed in their finest of cloaks, even Snape had a small amount of colour for the celebrations which consisted of a tiny green Slytherin badge that could only be seen from quite close. Dumbledore was present, dressed in fine gold and a rich red. The students, all in uniform, took their places in the hall settling once the headteacher rose from his centre seat to go stand at the golden owl podium.

“This year we say farewell to yet another brilliant class of bright wizards, I wish all my students the very best, can we have a round of applause for the class of 1992”

With a proud smile on his face, the teacher clapped his hand once triggering hundreds of other students to do the same. Only the cheering grew louder and louder until he wave his arms for them to stop.

“As you are all aware we have sadly lost our Defense against the dark arts Professor. By next year we will have a suitable replacement but for now, we can only thank a group of first-year students that bravely stood up to this man. Ronald Weasley is to be given fifty points for his sacrifice and excellent chess playing. Hermione Granger will also receive fifty points for her aid and intelligence in the chamber. Harry Potter is receiving sixty points for his bravery.”

The old man paused, letting the Gryffindor table explode into cheers and applause while the golden trio was being congratulated.

“This brings Slytherin and Gryffindor to a tie for the house cup this year. However, there is one student that has not been given justice for his attributes throughout this incident. Neville Longbottom is to be given ten house points. It takes a lot to stand up to a bully but it takes even more to stand up to a friend”

Seamus and Dean immediately reached out to their red-faced friend. Hugging him and shaking his shoulders proudly. The entire Gryffindor table got up cheering as the banners flicked and changed from green to rich Gryffindor red from just a small wave from the great Albus Dumbledore. Soon after the food was summoned to the table, the most extravagant food yet. Roast everything and anything with endless side dishes. The goblets were filled with coca cola for the younger years and butterbeer for the older years. The teachers were most likely filled with wine or scotch, alcohol of some kind because it seemed the cold hearts of Snape and McGonagall were thawing. Seamus loaded up his plate as much as he could, stuffing his face as soon and as much as he could. Once he’d found something new and amazing, the boy would always make sure to dump it on Dean’s plate to try. Wouldn’t continue his meal until his friend had tried some and offered his opinion. No matter if his face scrunched in disgust or if his eyes lit up with glee. Seamus would love to watch his reaction. Neville played safe, eating what he knew he liked in a regular potion even including vegetables. Dean didn’t mind carrots and would sometimes dump them on his plate but Neville always acted as if his Grandmother was peering over his shoulder, ensuring his diet was balanced and healthy. It would most likely do him well in the future but that’s not something his friend factored in while they watched him do it. Instead, they laughed and mocked.

The evening was cheery and went on deep into the night. All the sadness seemed to have been forgotten and instead, excitement filled the hall. Excitement to seeing family again, to be going home, to come back to this elite school as a second-year. When the boys finally reached their dorm that night, they dropped into a deep coma like sleep. Seamus and Dean had their backs to each other, pressed so much they could feel every breath the other took. The curtain was drawn around the bed giving them privacy from the other three boys who were already snoring loudly. Dean wasn’t sure when Seamus dozed off but when the Irish lad finally let out a light snore, he allowed himself to be overwhelmed by his exhaustion.

Saturday 27 June, 1992

The train was once again due to leave at 11 AM sharp. Neville was the one who herded the others into the great hall to get some breakfast down them before finishing the final touches of their packing and goodbyes to any teachers they favoured that year. Seamus wanted to speak with Madam Pomfrey and Dean headed down to the potions room with a wide grin on his face. Snape was sat at his desk, head resting against his fist as he muttered quietly to himself in the same cold tone he used with everyone else. The young Gryffindor knocked lightly on the open door and proceeded to enter when the professor nodded.

“Morning Professor”

“What is it, Thomas? Don’t you have a train to catch”

“I’ve still got a bit of time before all that. I was just wondering if you had any Potions books I could borrow for the summer? I won’t be able to get the year two textbook for a while but wanted to read up a little more during the break.”

The teacher let out a huff as he rose from his chair and wandered to the shabby bookshelf that was cast into the corner of the room, left with the littlest of light to collect dust more than interest. Probably for that exact purpose. Snape ran his pale boney fingers over the covers, disturbing various silver cobwebs that hung tightly throughout the shelves. In his arms he collected three books, two were fairly large in size with the covers decaying and peeling while the third was a lot smaller.

“These go over some of the ideas and mixtures we tend to teach in the second year of Hogwarts. Mind a lot of it will be unnecessary. Would you like me to mark the main focus points?”

“No don’t worry about it. It’ll be good to know more anyway, should be enough to get me through a magicless few weeks at home”

The professor handed over the books to Dean with a slight smirk and nodded, “You're going to miss that train, Thomas”

Dean said goodbye and tried to wave but almost dropped all the books so just stuck to a smile as he walked out. Racing back to the Gryffindor tower was a mission in itself with all the students, Peeves causing more mayhem as well as the moving staircase but he made it within only ten minutes. Although he spent another five recovering in the common room. The dorm room looked bare and plain once more, with all the first-year belongings packed away. Seamus was sat by the window with Rush on his lap purring softly from all the petting. Ronald and Harry were nowhere to be seen and neither was their luggage. Neville was dragging his bags across the wooden floors of the dorm as Dean entered.

“Hey don’t be too long yeah?”

Dean nodded with a smile and settled across from Seamus by the window. The luggage was laid on the mattresses of both beds while the cat carrier was on the floor by the window. Dean clicked to get the cat's attention and tossed a small treat into the carrier, shutting the door on the cat when he left to retrieve it.

“Excited to be a second year?”

“Excited to come back”

“You’ve not even left yet”

“Not yet”

Dean frowned slightly but shifted so he was facing away from the window Seamus was so engaged in looking out off.

“I’m gonna write you so many letters you're gonna be so sick of it”

“I was planning on doing the same thing”

They shared a laugh before Dean pulled himself to his feet and pulled Seamus up too. For the walk to the train station, Seamus returned to his normal self, bouncing around with too much energy and talking so fast no one could keep up. The journey to London seemed to be fairly cheerful, Neville, Seamus and Dean were joined by Lavender and the Patil twins, Parvati and Padma. Each rambling on about what their plans were without school. What used to be a long trip, now seemed to be a fraction of what it was. Dean wanted more time with his friends but his heart hurt from being away from his family for too long. With his bag and carrier gripped tightly in his hands the boy followed his two friends out into the platform searching desperately for their guardians. Neville’s grandmother was the first to be found. A middle-aged man took Neville’s belongings while his grandmother pulled him into a rather tight hug.

“Come come. Let’s escape this wretched platform before we are crushed to death.”

The woman seemed dead serious and the man beside her disappeared into thin air. Neville said a quick goodbye to his friends before he too disappeared in the tight grip of his grandmother's caring embrace. Seamus and Dean were left alone searching desperately for any relatives they know. Until Ian’s head popped up from over the crowds. Dean thought he was seeing things for a moment before it happened again. Seamus laughed as his friend dragged him through the busy herd of people only to find Ian hopping up and down while spinning with Elizabeth trying to keep him from falling with her arms out. The girl immediately abandoned her father to hug her little brother, even giving Seamus a warm smile. Ian eventually noticed his son and rushed over to take his bag. The man hugged both his son and Seamus but a tall woman interrupted and wrapped her hand around the back of Seamus’s neck. He froze for a few seconds but looked up at her with a smile, though his muscles still seemed tense as he was frozen in place. The woman had sandy-coloured hair much like her son, as well as dark narrow eyes and hollow cheeks along with a lean figure. The smile she wore was wide but her eyes seemed cold.

“Mother, this is Dean, his dad and sister”

The women looked at Dean for a while then back at the other two relatives standing closely behind him. Confusion was the first emotion to wash over her face as she looked from Elizabeth's pale complexion over to Dean’s much darker tones. Seamus’s face dropped and the blush from his cheek darkened.

“We best get going. It was a pleasure to meet you, Mr Thomas” Seamus was guided through the crowd by his neck, the tension from his body still present. Elizabeth tried to joke about it, how awkward it was but Dean could barely register what she was saying. Dean couldn’t wait to return next year.

Chapter Text

Saturday 27th June, 1992

As soon as they exited the station, the grip on his neck tightened as the witch apperated them to the porch of their home in Ireland. The woman didn’t waste any time guiding her son through the door, allowing him to drop his belonging by the door for the time being. In the living room, in front of a large trio of windows was his grandmother rocking peacefully in a beautifully designed rocking chair. Seamus immediately smiled, the woman woke from her nap when her grandson greeted her with a kiss on the cheek and a hug.

“Maidin mhaith” (Good morning)

It felt so strange for Seamus to be back to speaking in Irish now he was home, he’d spent a good few months speaking only English.

“Ta tu ar ais” (You’re back)

“Ta me ar ais, an feidir liom sui leat?” (I’m back, Can I sit with you?)

“Ar ndoigh mo phaiste” (Of course my child)

The sweet lady watched her grandson sit on the windowsill close to her, taking one of his hands and holding it softly. For a while, the boy rambled about the school, about Harry Potter and his adventures throughout the year with his best friends, about Neville the boy who tried and tried no matter how many times he was knocked down but mostly about Dean. The roommate, best friend, the boy who had spent most of the year putting up with Seamus. The old lady listened with the sun shining down on her through the window, clear as day as she calmly rocked on her chair. Eventually, it looked as if the woman was fighting with herself to stay awake, Seamus kissed his grandmother's forehead and left her to succumb to her exhaustion.

When the boy was five years old, he was allowed to choose any of the rooms in the large farmhouse to be styled as he wished. Seamus chose the attic, in hopes he would be able to have a window to sleep looking up at the sky. It took years of begging but finally on his ninth birthday, his mother allowed it, he and his father spent months collecting the materials and arranging for some friends who knew about construction and whatnot to help. Seamus was their little helper, collecting teas, and handing over tools and he even got to sit on the roof with them as it was being installed. The boy was over the moon when he finally laid back on his bed and stared at the stars.

The attic ceiling was always quite low, thankfully Seamus was still quite small but his parents always feared that puberty would turn him into a giant and he would have to move. Even if Seamus was forced to crawl around the room, he would never move. The window installed was quite large but another was installed, smaller and on the side of the house for the flat surface. It was to allow his owl access in and out of the room. Beside the window was a black metal perch, most of it was scraps of metal Seamus had tied together with a mixture of rope and tape. It had not failed him yet. Under the giant skylight window was a double mattress, drowned underneath a thick layer of pillows and blankets. Various other things were in his room including a guitar that had once belonged to his grandfather along with an old-fashioned record player he couldn’t bring himself to throw out. It was balanced on boxes of records.

The Irish lad lay down on the mattress, his limbs spread out across his bed and his gaze fixed on the clouds floating peacefully up in the sky. Eventually, he dosed off, missing the chaos of the dorms. Ronalds deafening snoring and the endless shuffling from Neville's bed or even when Dean’s cat climbed into his bed when nights were particularly cold. Back home it was quiet, so quiet Seamus believed if a pin was dropped on the porch around his house he would be able to hear it from his bedroom. The boy was woken by his father's voice bellowing from the second floor as he was climbing up to his son's room, Seamus shot up and started to rub his eyes clear. Before he knew it, Darren was in the attic with a bright grin and shoes that were peeling with mud. Seamus leapt to his father and wrapped his arms tightly around him. Christmas was the last time he had seen his father and letters between him and his family were strictly for his mother. Darren fell back onto the floor but embraced his son, trying to neaten the boy's sandy hair.

“My god you’ve grown so much!”

“I know right. Grown a whole centimetre”

“Come on, tea’s almost done”

Seamus pulled away from his father and brushed down his shirt, “How's the farm?”

The boy's father frowned slightly and shrugged, “Mr Johnson was involved in a little car accident a few weeks ago, injured his leg quite badly so we had to hire a farm hand to fill in while he’s recovering. You’ll meet him in a minute”

“Is he 100 years old like Johnson was? Or did you finally hire someone younger than 50?” Seamus smirked at Darren while climbing down the stairs onto the second floor.

“Cheeky! He’s just left school, almost 17 actually. Great worker, a quick learner and looking for work in agriculture. Depending on how we do this year, we might be able to keep him on if Johnson comes back.”

“Do you want him back?” Slowly the pair walked through the halls heading steadily down to the first floor trying to finish the conversation before they were in the presence of the farm hand as well as the lovely Mrs Finnigan.

“That man has been loyal to our farm for years, through our bad years as well as our good years. He is an asset to this farm and I would love for him to stay working with us until he retires. Loyalty is everything. It all depends on how well he recovers, if the damage to his leg makes it difficult for him to do his old tasks I can begin to train him on the paperwork and documents I usually do in the evening.” Darren stopped in front of his son and smiled, “That man brought us the crib you slept in as a child, he was at every single one of your birthdays and he’s not 50, hes only 46-”

Seamus laughed and nodded, “Okay okay, not 50. Can I go see him after tea? I’ll take the bike”

“Yeah, I think he’ll like that. Now come on, Your mother made sausages and mash” Darren scruffed his son's hair while guiding him down the stairs, the dining room had a large wooden table that could probably sit around ten people. Dropping from the ceiling was a beautiful chandelier, the crystals illuminating little flickers of light across the room. Around the room, pictures of old family members are framed and proudly displayed along with antic nicknacks. His Grandmother, Sheila, was sitting at the head of the table and next to her was a young man. The stranger had dark red hair, a strong build along with freckled that clouded his cheeks and nose. The red hair was slicked back, out of his face, in a little man bun with sweat coating his forehead along with a strand of hair that seemed to escape the man bun. Seamus stared at the pair of them, happily chatting away until his father took a seat on the other side of Sheila. Seamus joined him nervously and greeted his grandmother with a small smile until his father pipped up.

“Samson this is my son, Seamus. He goes to a boarding school and is back to help us for the summer”

The young man smiled at Seamus politely after nodding at Darren, “It’s nice to meet you, I’m Samson. You must be the child Sheila is always talking about, going on and on about her very talented and bright grandchild.”

“Maybe she’s starting to hallucinate” Darren laughed at his own joke, elbowing his son who glared at him but started to smile when turning back to Samson.

“Yes well, I guess you’ll see tomorrow won’t you” Seamus leaned back in his chair with a crooked smirk and his arms crossed against his chest.

“Looks like I might be out of a job then” Samson joked making his father and himself laugh a little. When that was over the older men started to talk about farm things while Seamus chatted to his Grandmother in Irish. A little while goes by, there were a few noises coming from the kitchen but nothing until Seamus was called in by his mother. Quickly he excused himself to join Charlotte Finnigan, his loving mother, in the kitchen. Immediately he was ordered to wash his hands while the woman was serving up blotches of mash onto the plates scattered over the kitchen counters. Once the hands were clean the boy was handed two hot plates and was told whom they were to be given. The boy hastily walked into the dining room setting the plates in front of his Grandmother and the farm’s new hand. Following him was his mother who balanced the other two plates along with a gravy boat. The woman sat beside Samson after handing out the food and the people at the table took each other's hand for a short prayer before digging in.

“Seamus, would you like to say the prayer?”

Seamus’s eyes widened at his mother’s request and he nodded quickly, it was an honour to be asked and the child wasn’t going to say no.

“Thank you, Lord, for this food we are about to eat, Thank you for the hands that have been prepared and those here to share it. Thank you for blessing me with a safe journey home so that I can be here to share a meal with my family once again. In Jesus’ name, amen”

A chorus of amens was repeated before they finally dug into the food and gave compliments to the chief.

“So how's boarding school?” Samson asked after having given many compliments to his hosts.

“It's horrible being away from family for so long and it's an unbelievable change to this place but I’m loving it actually. My dormmates are amazing and the school is so cool and old. Like a real castle. How’s working on the farm?”

“Your folks are very warm, they basically feed me every day. Not to mention Mr Johnson, he’s here almost every day shouting instructions at me.”

That made Seamus giggle, “Doesn’t surprise me. I’ve only seen him away from the farm a handful of times and I’ve known him my whole life.”

“Seriously? I thought he would be loving the bedrest, I sure would but instead, the man has been down here every day.”

“That man has never missed a day, he once had a fever and still managed to come in. We tried to send him home, and I had to walk him all the way into the house in the end” Darren added with a sad smile, “I reckon he’ll be yelling at Shay tomorrow so you might not finish the day with a killer headache”

For that they all laughed a little, Seamus secretly praying in his mind that Mr Johnson will be yelling about how amazing he was and how he was a gifted child. Charlotte collected the dishes and washed up while the three men helped Sheila in the living room and watched a movie with her until she dozed off in her rocking chair. Seamus pulled a thick blanket over the woman while his father was saying goodbye to the teenager by the front door. The first day home was quiet but already Seamus’s heart was full.

Mr Johnson's home was only a few minutes walk from Seamus’s home. The town was a long walk and anywhere else needed a vehicle. The home was small, comfy and always warm. The man wasn’t a wizard but he knew about the wizarding world, Seamus’s family hid nothing from him. Including details about the school, Seamus was attending. It took Seamus a few seconds to work up the courage to knock but he didn’t wait to let himself in.

“HELLO? ITS SEAMUS, CAN I COME IN?”

“In the living room”

A croaky, broken voice replied coming from a nearby room. The man was sitting in an armchair close to a fire. His leg was up on a wooden stool, coated in a thick white cast which was already stained with mud at the bottom. The man's hair was a mix of jet black and a silvery grey and a pale scar snaked across the right side of his neck.

“I heard you’ve been bullying the new employee”

“I heard you didn’t fail your first year at posh people wizard school”

Seamus smiled and sat on the floor by the fire, “Almost burned it down a few times”

The old man let out a slow chuckle and nodded slowly, “How’d you do in boarding school? It any good?”

“Why? You thinking of a late entry?” When the old man only glared back Seamus giggled but continued, “It got me out of farm work for most of the year and I have learned a tone of spells”

“Any friends? Or do you just wander the halls alone?”

Seamus rolled his eyes playfully, “I have friends. Many, in fact. It’s my thrilling charm and pleasant personality”

“Wow…Sometimes I wonder where you get this thrilling charm, your parents certainly aren’t this delusional”

“Ouch, after I walked all this way.”

“Yes, those five minutes must have been a grave sacrifice.”

“How’s your leg? Heard you got into a little bit of an accident in that pile of crap outside”

“My baby had no part in it, some wanker didn’t indicate and sent me flying into a fucking ditch. Mind the french.”

“Right. Well glad you didn’t die”

“Thanks, kid. Very kind. It’s late though and it’s getting a bit dark. Go home. I’ll see you bright and early tomorrow for your first big-boy job”

“I should have stayed home” Seamus left the home while the old man chuckled to himself.

Seamus managed to walk back before it got dark, and even happened to see his owl fly into his room from outside. As soon as he was home, he went straight to his room. Orla, the beautiful long-eared owl, stood proudly on her perch when the boy had finally reached his bedroom. The dark owl greeted him and watched as he climbed into bed and instantly fell into a deep sleep.

Sunday 28th June, 1992

At 6 AM a loud knocking woke Seamus up, his father was punching his door until he received a loud groan in response. No one else was awake yet. Their breakfast was toast, Seamus had his with orange juice while Darren enjoyed a large cup of coffee. Once breakfast was finished Darren filled three flasks with coffee taking it out to the fields as they walked. Leaning on a metal gate was Samson, who was wrapped up just as much, as the Finnigan men were, beside him, was an older gentleman. Mr Paddy Johnson, the man Seamus visited late last night stood with a frown on his face until he was given the flask of coffee. For a while they stood around, joking and throwing little jigs at each other. Seamus stood consumed in admiration for the men before him.

After the little chit-chat, Seamus was told to collect eggs from the chickens. Once that was done he was shown how to feed the cows. After that, he followed his father with Paddy, they explained to Seamus what they do and why in simple terms. Around lunch, they went inside to chill out and feasted on sandwiches kindly made by Charlotte.

“I’m going to take Seamus for the rest of the day, he hasn’t been to church since he returned.” Charlotte stood behind Seamus messing up his sandy hair.

“Yeah okay, I was going to let him off for the rest of the day anyways. Waking him up at six was a little cruel” His father said with a soft laugh, “Full house for tea tonight so you won’t be rid of these two helpers just yet”

“Helpers?” The three men walked back out to the fields, Seamus stared until his mother pinched his shoulder gently.

“Shower and change into one of your good shirts. We’ll leave at half two”

Seamus did just that, showered quickly as he could scrubbing off all the dirt that was stuck deep underneath his nails. His hair was fairly long now, it was only a few millimetres from his eyes but Seamus kept it pulled back. At church, he was almost told to wear the best he had, which was the only pair of jeans that fit him well and didn’t have any rips or stains. He had three button-up shirts, light green, dark blue and black. Today he wore his dark blue shirt and the shoes he used at school, which earned him a kiss from his grandmother. The two women and Seamus climbed into the car and within a few minutes, they were parked outside a beautiful old-fashioned building with glass-stained windows. They were early but so was everyone else. The Finnigans all piled up right at the front, sharing a pew with another family. Maeve Byrne and her young daughter Mary Byrne sat beside them, the two older women gossiping while the two kids sat silently waiting for the event to be over and done with.

Like god had answered their silent prayers the service began, it was long and Seamus spent most of it thinking about his friend. It had been only a day but he missed him, he wondered to himself whether Dean believed in god. Whether he went to church or even believed in anything. For a little bit, he imagined what Dean would do if he was there. Probably introduce himself to everyone and then sit beside Seamus smiling through the service. The boy would ask questions, sing the hymns and most importantly would be there to make the event a lot less painful.

It was long before the service finally came to an end and even then he couldn’t go home. His mother kept a conversation going with the lady they were sitting with and some more swarmed over. All Seamus overheard was some giggles and chatter about some new store opening in the town. Something they all disproved off, they called the owners ‘stupid old dykes’. Seamus didn’t know what it meant but the way they spoke about it, it must’ve been awful. On their way out the priest had a few words with his mother and even said hello to him, asking a few questions about school and how great it was being back.

Charlotte wanted to hurry home, so they did. Seamus helped his grandmother in the car, holding her hand until they pulled up to the house. Immediately, the housewife hurried into the building to get ready dinner for her husband and his friends, after sitting with his grandmother the young Irish lad went to the kitchen. Over the sink stood his mother who was peelings carrots and washing them down.

“Can I help?” Seamus stood beside her with a small smile, stepping on the tip of his toes to lean over the sink further.

“Why don’t you go outside and help your father on the farm?” The tone of her voice seemed happy but something in her body turned tense and a little cold.

Seamus smiled through the tension, “But I kinda wanna learn to cook. Dean’s dad taught me to make cookies during Christmas and told us all about his job. He’s a chef and-”

“You don’t need to learn to cook son. It’s not your job, a man makes money while the woman stays home.” The woman turned to look down at her son, her icy glare holding strong. But Seamus was 11, his mind asked too many questions. Questions his mother didn’t want to be challenged. No matter what. Seamus knew that. “From the looks of it, that wasn’t even your friend’s father”

“Ian is every bit Dean’s father than you are my mother. He spent an entire afternoon teaching me and Dean to bake, something you should’ve done. That Christmas you made me spend alone because Aunty needed you for the entirety of the day and there wasn’t enough room. They housed me. Gave me presents. You didn’t even call” Something rushed over Seamus, a fiery rage that made him spit out whatever thoughts or feelings even crossed his brain. He didn’t think. He didn’t stop and slow down. He just went at it until. Until a burning, tingling sensation covered the left side of his face. Quickly, tears filled his eyes but not enough for the droplet to fall. Only rest on his eyes lashes as they blinked slowly in confusion. Standing over him was his mother, her face brick red and her teeth clenched tightly together.

“I will not stand for disrespect like that under my roof! Do you hear me, boy?” Before he could even process what had happened she had him by the arm and was dragging him forcefully outside. In the large acres of land, there was a small shed quite a distance from the house. Inside were tools used to do repairs on the farming equipment. The wood was old and moulding but the lock was strong enough to keep people out. Or keep someone in. Seamus was tossed in, knocking a shelf so hard that a screwdriver and various other loose tools were knocked onto him. The boy's heartbeat pounding so hard the sounds around him muffled. The boy shrank back, kicking himself as far as he could from the open door shrinking as small as he could. The trembling shook the entire shed while his eyes were glued open, staring intensely at the unrecognisable woman that stood before him.

“Ungrateful boys don’t deserve to stay inside with the family. Perhaps a night out from under my roof and my care will help you see how lucky you have it. Maybe you’ll find some manners too.”

The woman didn’t stay around, Seamus heard her lock the door as she left. The boy shot up in pure fear, running to the door and trying desperately to open it. Pulling the door as hard as he could until he just dropped, shivering badly on the cold damp floor of the shed. He pulled his knees up to his chest, wrapping his arms around his legs. The coldness was numbing, the only thing that gave him warmth was the endless tears running down his cheek and dropping onto his clothes. But eventually, even those stopped. His eyes dried out and the stinging from his cheek finally registered after being dosed up in adrenaline. Not just his cheek though, some tool fell onto his ribs causing sharp pain, another tool must have fallen on his thigh but the worse of the pain was at the side of his head. Above his left ear. Seamus hadn’t even noticed the blood until his fingers brushed over the centre of the pain. It was too dark to see but the boy could just tell. The boy’s heartbeats slowed, his breathing deepened and his muscles relaxed, as much as they could in the freezing cold.

Despite all this, his mind was still racing like it depended on speed alone. Like the engines that run his brains were fueled by worries and that's all he had. He ached to sleep but something inside him kept him awake. Whether it was the throbbing, the shock, or maybe just the cold. Time just seemed to blur together and before he knew it light was peaking into the shed by small slithers of gaps in the planks of wood.

It seemed only ten minutes passed before the door behind him was pulled open and the exhausted boy fell down onto the grass outside. Above him stood his mother, well rested and her hair pinned up neatly. A large Cheshire cat smile stretched across her face. The woman scooped her son up neatly in her arms, carrying him to the house while rocking her arms. It did not help the boy's exhaustion nor did it calm his anticipation. The sudden kindness was unexpected and probably more frightening. Seamus was confused and overwhelmed. Gently the woman laid her son on the kitchen side and then helped him to sit up. Charlotte fetched a first aid kit and spent a few minutes cleaning the wound on the side of his head softly. Once that was done she fetched a glass of water calmly and watched as her son knock back the entire glass, finally putting to rest his yearning for hydration. Watching the damage done to her son, the woman seemed oddly serene. Nothing struck her as angry or even sympathetic.

In a slow movement, her hand rose to hold his face, stroking her thumb across his now dark purple bruise. It sent all of Seamus’s hairs on end. He felt himself tense in preparation for another strike, a feeling which only grew worse when his mother froze.

“You seem so cold. Go have a warm shower and get some sleep, my child. You really shouldn’t be out in the cold all night…it’s very dangerous” She took the glass and kissed her son's forehead lightly, “Go on”

Seamus didn’t hesitate to lower himself from the counter and escape the woman. Straight into the shower he went, letting the steaming hot water flow over him until his skin was scorching from the heat. Once out of the shower he wiped the thick layer of condensation off the mirror looking at his bare skin, the bruises were littered around his body. A mosaic of blue, purple and even some specs of black seeped through. It made tears swell in the child's eyes. A feeling of guilt started to settle in his stomach, he carried the blame and it settled comfortably on his shoulders. What if he hadn’t spoken to his mother like that? What if he’d just gone outside and helped his father instead of arguing? Why on earth did he mention Dean and his father? She clearly didn’t approve. She was getting angry and he just pushed her. Pushed her too far so obviously she lashed out. Who wouldn’t?

Getting into his bedroom was a journey but luckily he was greeted by Orla who was holding a crisp white letter. Immediately Seamus knew who it was from. The only paper that was white was from England's capital city. Orla was kind enough to drop the letter on the bed, after Seamus got settled under the warm heavy weight of his blankets the bird settled down in his lap. Everything in him wanted to curl up and sleep. In fact, the boy wasn’t certain he wanted to wake up. Not entirely. But the letter in his hand warmed his heart and forced his eyes to stay open just long enough to read the letter.

‘To Seamus,

I started writing this on the car ride home so excuse the state of my handwriting. Traffic is so bad too, all the starting and stopping won’t help at all. My parents say hi too! They wish you the best and so do I. Since my sisters are going to their mums for a few weeks in the holidays, once they come back my parents are taking us to the beach. You go to the beach often? I have heard Ireland has quite a few nice beaches. Who knows. Maybe you haven’t been. Do you wanna come with us? I’m sure my parents won’t mind.

Let me know what you are up to. I reckon your fathers already got you doing your bit on the farm, I wouldn’t even know what you’d be able to do on a farm. Isn’t it just big machines collecting crops? Or do you have animals like chickens or sheep? Goats are cool too. I’m sure you would love goats too, always full of energy and irritating to most people. Don’t worry Mr Finnigan, you have never irritated me. Not too much anyways. Definitely not when you ran me over with a luggage trolley.

This will be sent the good old fashion muggle way, first-class though so it shouldn’t take too long. Can’t wait to see Orla again! If your summer gets busy and chaotic don’t feel too compelled to reply but I feel very compelled to write so expect many more.

From Dean’

A small giggle escaped Seamus’s lips at about the same time tears dropped down his cheeks staining the crisp white letter shaking in his nerve-ridden hands. Orla snatched the paper from his hands, letting it float softly to the ground on her way to her perch. Seamus appreciated the help but instead of thanking his bird, the boy collapsed into his mattress. Being as drained as he was, the young wizard was pulled into a deep sleep in which the loudest of storms couldn’t stand a chance to wake him.

Eventually, the screaming inside his gut did wake him. His eyes were still tired and aching for Seamus to sleep once more. Seamus crawled out of bed, heading down promptly to the kitchen where he poured himself a large glass of water along with putting some bread in the toaster. From the window above the sink, he watched the cows in the field in front of him, a sudden feeling on his shoulder. A firm grip from his mother was enough to stiffen all muscles in the boy's body. Seamus couldn’t turn to face the woman, the reflection from the window was enough for him to want to start trembling and crying. She had a warm smile but she looked straight out towards the fields.

“You look much better sweetie. Did you sleep well?”

“Y-yes”

It seemed his hesitation made his mother tense, only slightly but enough for Seamus to want to leave.

“No more than a little bruise…your lucky I brought you in when I did, hyperthermia is an awful thing to experience…”

Seamus only nodded. The woman finally made eye contact but not with the warm smile she directed to the layer of grass outside. Instead, he was greeted with an icy glare and a small squeeze to his shoulder.

“You’ve learnt your lesson now. We don’t need a repeat, you’re okay now anyways…You’ll be back helping your father tomorrow”

The toaster went off and Seamus flinched but moved towards the toaster trying to hide it. The mother was happy enough to pretend her son was perfectly happy and disappeared somewhere else in the building. The boy prepared his toast and took it upstairs. Sent the remainder of the day hidden in his room, looking up at the sky, reading some school books, and writing a response to Dean. Rereading it over and over ensuring he sounded as happy and okay as he could. All pain he felt subsided, most of what he felt was just a dull ache.

‘To Dean,

Muggle mail does take quite a while, doesn’t it? Orla brought this to you much quicker and I can guarantee that. Ireland does have beaches, I’ve been once or twice but personally never made a connection to it. Rather be on my farm. We mostly have cows and chickens, and we have a few sheep and a goat but my dad won him in a card game. You are quite right about me getting along with him, we are besties.

It sucks you won’t be with your sisters for all of the holidays. I know you missed them while you were at school. How will you occupy yourself? Football with your mates? Or reading your way through next year's topics? Might send Orla just to give you some company.

I’ve been out to the farm, shown the ropes. Obviously, I can’t do the extra cool things but the new farm hand seems to be handling it fine. His name is Samson. Pretty cool actually, my grandmother loves him to bits. In fact, everyone does. Mr Johnson (The guy he replaced) has been here every day still, he thinks his replacement isn’t good enough yet.

Don’t forget your house is booked up for that week with Neville. Will your sisters be in for that or not? If so I’ll pray for your parents.

From Seamus’

Darren eventually came up to greet his son, the man brought a plate of food up and spent a while looking at his son. Seamus ate up trying to ignore the very frightened and intense gaze of his father. Before he left the man brushed his fingers through his son's hair with a small smile, “Your mother and I love you so much, Shay…You know that, right?”

It was heartbreaking seeing his father so fragile towards him, so careful.

For the next few days, Seamus followed Samson around on the farm, being shown all the little jobs he would be trusted to do over the weeks he was home. They talked a lot, Samson was evidently not very close with his folks. He wanted to move out as soon as possible, in fact, Mr Johnson offered for him to rent one of his spare rooms. Seamus was smiling anytime he was around, anytime they were out on the fields Seamus followed almost everything he said. He admired him, looked up to him even. Darren believed them getting along was brilliant, as did his mother. Until she watched the two boys more closely, Samson was kind and Seamus was very charmed.

In response, Seamus was allowed days to himself usually to be set up with Mary Byrne. For Seamus, it was amazing, either on the fields with his family or around and about hanging with Mary. She was a year younger than him, shy when around adults but kind. At times, she reminded the boy of Dean. Between letters Seamus distracted himself with Mary, running around the fields with her, exploring the town and throwing rocks into the canal. Whatever it was it made both their parents happy. They were kids but in their parent's eyes, everything they did was a vision of their future in his world.

It was a week before the boy was due to go off to Dean, meeting up with him and Neville for a week (without Dean’s sisters), the young wizard was woken in the middle of the night. Lead through the darkness he was brought into the barns, the isolated barn to hold the sick and recovering animals. His father, Paddy Johnson and the vet were all standing around one of the pregnant cows, that’s what Seamus thought until they shifted for him to be a very small, weak-looking calf.

“It won’t live long. By my estimates, I’d have to say a couple of days. Max. The best thing to do is to put it out of its misery” The vet did seem sincere, to Seamus’s surprise the older men were nodding grimly.

“Thanks, Doc.” Darren showed the man out but Seamus walked over to the calf sadly.

“What if it can survive? We’d be killing him for no good reason” The animal beside his feet was helpless but Seamu looked into his eyes and could just tell, he was strong. For an impressive 30 minutes Paddy and Darren argued harshly with the child, not holding much graphical detail back. However something Seamus felt he had acquired from the men before him was his stubbornness and need to always be right. Or at least act like he was always right until he wasn’t.

“Okay this is what we will do, this calf is your responsibility. Keep him here, feed him, care for him, and talk to the vet about his care. Paddy can help you with that last one. If in three days, he lives then we will continue his care and integrate him with the herd”

Seamus was on a mission from then on. First, he got milk from the mother and allowed her to stay in the barn to make contact with her calf. Lamps to help warm the calf were set up once the mother was moved into a space of her own. Seamus collected blankets and some food for himself. The rest of the night he spent in the barn, feeding the calf, comforting it, and ensuring it was warm enough. For two days Seamus only came out of that barn to eat and go to the toilet, he’d not seen much of his family for the two days except when they popped in to check up. The boy slept when he could and ate any and every chance he had. Samson spent his breaks checking up on them, bringing food and sitting with the calf. He thought what Seamus did was very sweet, he probably didn’t think he would go through with it so seriously though. That was apparent during the second visit in which his jaw dropped when seeing him still there.

On the third day, Seamus woke up to Paddy shaking him awake with a flask of hot chocolate. Darren and Samson were watching the calf follow them steadily for some milk, checking his progress. The calf had grown a lot bigger in just those few days, it had better balance and a bolder presence in general. It fought incredibly hard to live, and thanks to a little help and determination from Seamus he had a good chance of survival for years to come. The only thing left to do was to name him. The adults tried to convince them not to name it however Samson and Seamus wore them down a bit. Darren suggested Cillian while Samson wanted Oisin but Paddy chose a name Seamus immediately fell in love with. Ewan, meaning in Gaelic or Scottish ‘gods gracious’ or derived from the word Vuen which means ‘The warrior’. Seamus was dragged back into the home and ordered to stay inside for the rest of the day.

Charlotte, the cherished wife and loving mother prepared him a nice warm meal and kissed his forehead as he escaped to his room. The walls were a strange relief for him, finally, he had back his bed. The young boy's body ached, from the uncomfortable floors of the barn, healing burns from bumping into his mother who was holding a cup of boiled tea screamed from his arm and so did a large bruise on the higher end of his ribs where, he couldn’t quite recall how that one had happened. It seemed a good few weeks had passed but for Seamus most of it was a blur, a dark exhausting blur. Cold mornings on the farm, waking before the sun. Muscle’s aching so badly he spent most of his nights on the couch, unable to make it up all the stairs. Looks of pure rage from his mother made him tremble and his mind switch off to blank. It wasn’t all bad. The farmers laughing and pulling pranks through the harder days was enough to put a smile on his face for hours, or have him chuckling hard enough to forget to breathe. Seeing Mary smile or hearing her cackle from across the field. Samson brought him lunch or a snack, he even got him a magazine deemed ‘demonic’ by his parents.

These past few weeks Seamus felt himself fade a little further away, feeling a little more different than before. Paddy spoke about his ex-wife a little, speaking only of how he felt a piece of himself die with her. The boy heard how his father spoke of his mother as if she was his whole world and followed her word like she was a god. He even saw Samson staring at women through town, smirking and following their figures with his eyes but all he saw were women. For a while, he thought he was too young, too immature for feeling like that. But Mary spoke of love, spoke of marriage. She had it all figured out. But Seamus didn’t know love, not really. Charlotte and Darren were not in love, not really. Seamus could see that from a mile away. They relied on each other, and shared a house and a child but neither truly respected the other. Paddy spoke of love but all Seamus saw was heartbreak, pain and loneliness. Samson spoke of ‘picking up chicks’ but in reality, the only thing he was picking up was dead-end numbers.

Charlotte Finnigan picked all this up a lot longer than Seamus, perhaps it was the different perspective. But Seamus didn’t think of women when he thought of love. He didn’t imagine himself watching a wife walk down the aisle, kissing her or having kids with her. The realisation hit him hard, distanced him from his family further and his mother tried harder to push him to Mary. The child spent most nights terrified people would know, that his mother knew. Or he spent the night hating himself, praying to god to let him be normal. Most nights for the boy were agonising, contemplating what he could do, how he could deal with it. Ignore it. Fight it. Accept it. An 12-year-old boy drained, emotionally and physically. Spending his days hurting and scared, alone in all of it.

The light at the end of this very dark and frightening tunnel was the letters exchanged between him and his friend. Dean sent a total of 34 letters during the first month of the holidays. Seamus replied to as many as he could, keeping every single one of them at Paddy’s home for safekeeping. Something inside him told him Charlotte isn’t the biggest fan of Dean. Paddy was. The old man listened to Seamus share stories of his best friend, their little adventures and even their little battle. He raved about his friend, Paddy smiled through the painfully long stories adding how he wished to meet the famous Dean Thomas who had Seamus completely obsessed. Dean probably didn’t realise how much Seamus loved him, he cared for him immensely and through the summer in which Seamus felt the most alone he had ever experienced in his life, his friend was the only one who made him feel less alone and more seen.

Chapter Text

Four weeks of the six-week holidays had passed, and Dean spent every minute doing something. In the first week, he had all the work set for the holidays done as well as catching up with his friends, sisters and family. The overworked sketchbook with paper hanging onto the spine was returned home, added to his collection. Its pages were scattered with memories and visions that had come to Dean, most of Seamus or his other friends. Some of the grounds of Hogwarts. Some were of magic he’d seen in class or in the halls of the wonderous school. After the attack, he had a phase of drawing the event, the boys in the shadows, the green lights, and small snippets of the hospital ward. The book had a range of emotions which made it so dear to Dean. Football with his mates continued like normal, absorbing all the sun he could before winter came back again washing out all the heat. Ian and the girls took Dean to a few museums before the girls had to leave to spend a few weeks with their mother. After that, the house was quiet and the letters Dean sent out to his friend increased with his newfound boredom. Seamus seemed good but never detailed much about his time home, though the boy was very closed off about his family life at school so it didn’t come as much of a shock.

Dean’s mother had gotten a few days of work but only for the weekend, the boys were coming over, which left five days where the boys would be alone or with Ian which was probably less wise than if they were alone. Since the boys were only 12 years old walking around the busy streets of London was out of the question however the neighbourhood wasn’t so unthinkable. Hanging out on the fields would be cool for a few days and when Ian could have a day off they would have a day out exploring London. The boy had thought of this week since they had planned it. At first, it was nerves that started to boil up inside him but eventually it was excitement. At Hogwarts, he’d spent almost every minute of every day with Seamus but they hadn’t been together since the train station.

The excitement was overwhelming, instead of driving his parents to the ground with all his pent-up energy, he used it to clean and organise his room. Once he was done, he got started on the rest of the house making sure nothing was out of place for Sunday when they were due to arrive. The room was spotless, hoovered and organised. Even his desk was cleared away slightly, the art supplies all put away or bunched up in various recycled jam jars or candle jars. The chair that was usually used to store most of Dean’s clothes was finally cleared and visible. The kitchen was filled with baked goods ranging from cookies to pies, it seemed Dean wasn’t the only one nervous about the visit.

Pam believed the whole situation was hilarious, seeing her boys run around like headless chickens and they only seemed to egg each other on. Make each other worse. She was relishing in all the food and free chores, most snacks she brought to her office for her clients to enjoy. The chances of her being home for the arrival of the guests were slim since her work was very demanding however she would be there later in the day. Dean couldn’t imagine Seamus’s parents staying around to be very social but Neville’s grandmother was certainly an extremely extroverted woman and surely had a few things to say before leaving her only grandson in the care of two strangers.

The Londoner felt as if he’d spent most of the night awake, tossing and turning restlessly until his memory went blank and eventually he drifted to sleep. Rush was curled up beside Dean when he awoke, the sun was still so low that its golden glow was all the boy could see. Without waking the cat, Dean climbed from his bed into the kitchen only to start his morning with a cookie and a glass of water. Ian stumbled down the stairs and did the same, only his glass of water was a large mug of steaming coffee. Not a word broke the silence that filled the house as they sat at the counter half awake by the soft sound of the radio that kept their brains active enough to stay awake. Sundays were always a strange day, with nothing to do which made going to bed the more desirable option.

Between the early hours of the morning and the more alert hours of midday, the first of the guests were to arrive. A string of knocks leads Ian to the door, with a very excited Dean following closely behind him. They opened the door to see Charlotte Finnigan get slapped in the face by a strong scent of caramelised fruits and pure sugar. Below Seamus’s glowing eyes were two dark circles that contrasted deeply with his very pale complexion, the resemblance between him and his mother remained in their sandy hair and wide Cheshire smile. Except for today, Seamus’s smile was more dulled and hollowed.

“Don’t forget to be polite. I’ll pick you up next Sunday…Have fun” The woman squeezed her son's shoulder while speaking softly down to him, Seamus’s eyes never met her gaze and all he did was nod. Ian stepped outside gesturing for the young boy to head inside and once he was inside the house, the adults closed the door to speak more outside. The hollowness in Seamus’s smile subsided and actual joy radiated from the boy. Joy but also great tiredness. Dean helped the boy with his bag, carrying it up to his room and dumping it on his now clear and visible chair.

Seamus groaned loudly as he jumped face-first only Dean’s bed, starfishing his limbs as far out as they would go. Dean managed to sit on an open space on the mattress. “You look dead Finnigan? Overworking on that farm?”

“We had this premature calf, it had to have close attention. Slept in the barn for a few nights so I haven’t been experiencing the five-star experience.” The words muffled against the pillow where the boy's face was buried deeply, turning his face only slightly to become slightly more understandable.

“Okay well…um…have a nap now quickly. I can wake you when Neville gets here, although I’m pretty sure he’ll wake you up” Dean got to his feet moving closer to the door.

“Nah it’s fine, I just got here I don’t wann-” Seamus sat himself up and his eyes were more drowsy and unclear.

“We have a week to hang out, we can’t do that if you're running around like a zombie. Sleep honestly I’d feel a lot better if you looked…alive” Dean made his way back to his bed and pushed his friend’s shoulder, with a small laugh he fell back and snuggled himself into the blankets. By the time he was done situating himself his face was barely visible between the thick blanket and the soft pillow. The Londoner made his way downstairs, Mrs Finnigan was gone and Ian was hovering over the lower rooms of the house. The adult was filled into what Seamus was up to but Dean didn’t stay, he got a glass of water for his friend and made his way upstairs to do some reading while his friend slept.

After only 30 minutes, Ian heard a sharp singular knock on the door. A minute after was yet another sharp knock. Dean from upstairs had heard the new arrivals and made his way downstairs, standing behind his father. Ian opened the door to a suited-up man wearing an expression that reminded the boy a little like the potions professor back at Hogwarts. When speaking he looked Ian dead in the eyes, dismissing Dean almost entirely. The man's voice was loud and clear, his chin held high and proud. “Is this the Thomas residence?”

“Yes um I’m Ian Thomas, can I help you with anything?”

The man headed back down the drive only to return with a woman fairly old, and silvery hair that was twisted and braided into a beautiful bun with not a single hair out of place but her eyes held a certain stubbornness that struck a little fear into the boy who was attempting to hide behind his father.

“Augusta Longbottom, You were expecting us?”

Ian moved with a wide smile to the side as the woman entered the home, scanning the room with extreme caution but little judgement. Dean stayed by the door and watched as his friend, who he’d not seen for a good few weeks, struggle to drag up the driveway a very full suitcase. The boy wore some trousers along with a navy button-up shirt, and as soon as he saw Dean a smile appeared on his face. The suitcase was dismissed halfway across the driveway while Neville rushed over to his friend, greeting him with a warm embrace. The suited-up man from before collected the boy's belongings bringing it up the rest of the way, leaving it just inside the door of the residence.

“Thanks, Sebastian. I will see you next week!” Neville waved and walked inside as the man returned a grin and a slight nod as they passed, “So am I the first to get here?”

“No. Seamus is upstairs but sleeping, we can wake him once your nan leaves” Dean walked into the living room joining the two adults, Ian had a tin of biscuits and a pair of teas on the coffee table. Dean and Neville bundled up on the sofa while the adults sat across from each other on the armchairs.

“So where are you travelling to…Miss Longbottom?”

“Please, address me as Augusta. I am to be visiting some friends over in Egypt for a week. I would have done it while Neville here was at Hogwarts but they were unavailable at that time. Seems they have a schedule worse than mine.”

“Right, do you travel often? Seen much of the world?”

“I like to, I’m retired so I have enough time. I’d like to say I’ve seen my fair share of the world. Enough about silly old me, What about you?”

“Well I’ve not had much of a chance, I had my daughters pretty young then met Pam and Dean. We’ve been to a few places but since we are such a big family it’s more expensive and a lot harder to plan for in general.”

“Yes well, I’d imagine it would be fairly difficult with planes and whatnot. I must warn you before I leave here, my grandson has not spent much time in the muggle world. So what might seem to be stupid questions are perfectly genuine” The woman rose from her seat, immediately going to Neville and planting a kiss right on his forehead. “Be good for the Thomas’s, okay? Sebastian and I will return in a week to collect you. Dean, it's been a pleasure to see you again”

After saying her peace she was led to the door by Ian, they remained there chatting which the boys took as a queue to escape the situation and reunite with the third one upstairs. Neville dragged up his chase with some help from Dean, it was left by his friend's bed where Seamus was still sleeping however the blanket had been thrown onto the floor. Neville's attention darted around the room, at various little trinkets Dean had collected over the years. Seamus woke up, eyes wide but calmer once spotting Neville.

“Took you long enough”

Neville laughed and threw a statue of a little bear at Seamus, “Have a nice granny nap?”

Seamus jumped out of the way and then made his way closer to Longbottom who still wore a large grin on his face, Dean picked up his bear and once he stood again the boy saw his two friends rock sweetly in a hug. The Irish kid looked much better after a short nap, the circle around his eyes was paler than before and much more alert. Neville looked amazing, smelt amazing and within the short amount of time he had spent at home the boy had grown much more than Seamus. In fact, it looked like Seamus hadn’t grown an inch.

The remainder of the day was spent lounging around Dean’s bedroom, Neville wandered around while investigating all of his possessions. Seamus sat leaning against the wall with a ginger cat curled on his lap. They all recapped what they had been up to during their holidays. Neville had spent it visiting a lot of his family, his parents included along with his uncle and some cousins in France. The boy had spent much of his time relaxing at home too but had mentioned nothing about school or the new textbooks so the other two guessed he had not even thought of it. Seamus was finally old enough to help out on his father's farm, he was back in the church’s social circle and had an additional friend Mary. His summer was a little more chaotic, he had some silly tales of the boys on the farm messing about or him and Mary doing something sneaky and the newest adventure which was of the premature calf he volunteered to nurse back to health.

Dean opened up about his holidays which was very easy. Talking about the various trips with his sisters and the time spent with his family, he didn’t mention the schoolwork he was getting ahead of. It was quite late before they had tea, Ian had asked if they wanted it before Pam came home and to just let him know if they were hungry but the boys chatted for so long that they forgot about dinner entirely. Until Dean heard the slam of the door, every time his mother worked late she would come inside, and have her bag taken by Ian as well as him helping her with her coat. The kitchen is where she would vent about her day while Ian fussed over the food or her, Dean thought it was quite sweet and usually waited till after tea to fuss over his mother. The boys were called down for tea only a half hour after the boy heard the front door.

The dining room was an open room beside the kitchen, they helped set the table, Seamus placing glasses down at each place, Dean was on cutlery while Neville was putting down black placemats. Ian was serving in the kitchen, Dean hovered to help carry the plates over. His mother, still in one of her suits from work, took her glass of wine and headed over to the table. From the corner of his eye, Dean swore he could see Seamus flinch away from his mother as she walked behind him, perhaps a little too close for comfort.

The others didn’t spot it. Pam moved away from him immediately, her limbs freezing up a little. Seamus chose a seat fairly far from the woman's spot beside one head of the table, constantly she looked over to him smiling calmly but his eyes were either glued to Neville or various places around the room. Dean didn’t think much of it, she might have made him nervous because of how old she was or because he was a guest in her home afraid of upsetting her. It didn’t seem to put a dent in Seamus’s smile though and it only grew when Dean placed his meal in front of him. They were having Lamb shanks with mash and an assortment of veg since Ian had no idea what they all liked and insisted children were fussy and had to be given options. Dinner was pleasant, the adults asked their childs’ friends about the holidays and school. They even asked a little more about the government in the wizarding world, it was run in a fairly similar way to their world. Departments that run different aspects of their life, as well as laws that cover harmful misuse of magic. The world was hidden from muggles but of course, since magical children could be born from muggle parents it wasn’t as black and white as that.

Seamus seemed to only know the basics while Neville knew heaps more. It made sense, Neville came from a family of witches and wizards while Seamus’s only magical relative was his mother. With only one magical influence in his life, it’s no wonder he knew less. It seems Seamus didn’t know many spells when he arrived at Hogwarts so his mother probably didn’t do magic often, probably didn’t stay in the loop with the magical world much either.

Dinner was followed by dessert and since Ian had baked around ten different sweet treats they had a choice, Seamus had a slice of carrot cake, Neville had a red velvet cupcake while Dean got himself a waffle. The adults topped up on wine, moving their party to the living room where he could hear his mother's cackling laugh echo around the house. The boys hung around the kitchen, Neville was looking at all the appliances with Seamus by his side explaining what they do. They were looking at a can opener for a few minutes, Dean wasn’t sure whether they used magic to open them or if he’d just never seen a can with his own eyes. Dean was puzzled a few times too as they ransacked the cupboards, the boy didn’t realise all the strange equipment his father had in their kitchen.

It was late when finally, the boys headed upstairs after they all said goodnight to the loving couple intertwined on the living room sofa, Dean kissed his parents' cheek goodnight as they passed through the room. Dean didn’t think about the sleep situation at all.

“So where are we sleeping?” Neville looked at the double bed then back at Dean who stared cluelessly at the bed, not wanting to make eye contact with his friend.

“Dibs the bed” Seamus pushed past the other two, jumping face-first into the bed.

Dean shook his head laughing and nudged Neville, “Come on. We’ll steal some mattresses from my sister’s room”

Elizabeth’s room was the closest and probably the cleanest so the pair of boys went in, neatly folded her blanket and placed it on her desk, then attempted to carry the mattress through the halls without breaking anything. A few paintings and decor were victims of this mission of theirs, once it was plopped down at the foot of the other bed, facing the opposite direction. Dean went back out to clean up the path of destruction they had so casually laid out, only a few things were actually broken. Not so damaged that they couldn’t be glued back together though so he just laid them on a nearby draw.

Neville had found himself a blanket and was already curled up on the mattress on the floor, the blinds were left half open, the open half letting light onto the actual bed where Seamus had managed to shift onto one favoured side.

“Hurry up Thomas, some of us want some sleep” Seamus had half his face squashed against a pillow making his words slurred. The boy's eyes were open just for a second then they were closed and he turned to face the window. Dean changed into some pyjamas and then hopped in his bed. Seamus changed out of the clothes he came in, he wore a black vest which showed more than the jumper he wore earlier. The forearm was wrapped in a bandage and his friend could see some purple on the shoulder furthest from him, a dark purple like quite a bad bruise. Dean stared at them for a while then looked back at Seamus who’d turned his head at some point and was now staring back at him, making his heart skip a beat and his stomach drop.

“What happened to your arm?” Dean whispered, keeping his voice as low as possible to keep Longbottom asleep. Seamus’s eyes didn’t flinch away from Dean’s but he did pull his arm under the blanket.

“Spilt some hot water while trying to make my grandmother a cup of tea. Just shows I don’t need magic to burn myself” Seamus smiled a little, Dean did too and his eyes dropped to the large dimples showing on the other boy's face.

“What will we do with you? Reckon we might have to stop lighting the fire downstairs until you are gone. Afraid you might go all fire crazy and jump in.” Seamus laughed at that but Dean shushed him, trying to squash his face with a pillow.

“I don’t see the connection honestly, I’ve only set a few minor fires but now I’m seen as a fire maniac. I am offended right now, deeply offended” Seamus scrunched up his face, he took the pillow back diving his face right into it again pouting at Dean. In a silent agreement they both got settled in, digging their faces into the pillows and pulling the blanket up some more then it took no time for them to fall asleep.

Neville was a little homesick when he woke up on Monday so the others decided to stay in and watch movies for most of the day, in the later hours they decided to get homework out of the way. Neville was the only one who had avoided doing all of it but by the end of the day, they had all completed the summer tasks. The pureblood was no longer as homesick, he’d forgotten about how he wished to be home and instead was venting about cruel teachers are for giving them work to do while they were supposed to be relaxing with their families.

Tuesday both adults were called into work so the boys couldn’t go too far from the house. Instead, they all borrowed some football jerseys from Dean and some shorts to go hang out on the fields. It was a sunny day, Dean brought along a backpack with some iced water bottles and a few snacks, and Rush followed them down to the field too and ended up getting fawned over by the smaller kids there. The day was pleasant, almost all the boys knew Dean and a few recognised Seamus from his previous visit. Neville was introduced as another friend from boarding school, the boy could hardly believe there was a game where no brooms were involved. Dean couldn’t wait to introduce him to hockey. The Londoner went straight into the game and after a little bit, Seamus did too. Neville was left with the bag and even the cat to keep him company. One of the boys that twisted their ankle in a rough tackle was hauled to the side, he and Neville got talking and it seemed he made a new friend. Seamus and Dean were quite a pair on the field, mostly because they didn’t need to shout their plays over the field. Also because Seamus’s aggression matched quite well with Dean’s tactical manoeuvres. The others on the field seemed impressed with the newest addition, at least those on his team. The older kids also seemed to love the kids' fire, the sassy remarks he liked to throw around even when he knew it would result in some harsher tackles.

“Oi, you” One of the older kids, Daniel, ran over to the three boys as they stood catching their breath, “How long you in London for? Could use some more defenders as ruthless as you”

“Only a few more days, not all of us have the time to go play outside every day. Some people have jobs” Seamus smirked slightly at his own attitude which only increased with the response he received.

“Can’t believe anyone as hot-headed as you could have a job, not to mention you’re about seven years old. What do you do? Run around trying to find pennies dropped in the street”

“If I did, I’d probably still end up with more money than you” Seamus laughed as the boy said his goodbyes and ran off. Neville looked mortified at how his friend spoke to the stranger, Dean laughed and dropped to the ground beside him. Seamus joined them on the grass. As the day progressed more and more of the boys cleared out. The games consisted of a few guys passing the ball around with Neville trying to piece together the game and how it worked. The ginger cat stuck around Seamus, favouritism was shown clearly and Dean was heartbroken while Seamus couldn’t get enough of it.

Wednesday was the first day Ian had off, the man was very excited to be exploring London with his son and his friends. The Tower of London was where they headed early in the morning, the boys learned about its history and how it was used. All were fascinated immensely with the prisons and displays that were scattered around the building. Next, they headed to The National Gallery which all of them knew was mostly for Dean. Lunch was enjoyed at a very busy and expensive restaurant then they walked around for an hour, looking at the various sights to see. Later in the day they went to the theatre, got themselves some overpriced beverages and saw a fairly new piece called Annie get your gun. Afterwards, they met up with Pam Thomas at her firm's office and got some street food, the group sat and ate it while watching as London lit up the sky as it darkened. It was extremely late when they finally got back to the Thomas residence. Most of the boys crashed as soon as they hit the bed, and Dean stayed up a little. The only noise he made while awake was the manic scratching of a pencil, as he sat on the windowsill using the moonlight to see the faint marks he made on the paper. When it was done, he pushed it back looking at the full picture. The collection of soft lines shaped an image of his friends, standing on their tippy toes trying to see over the counter of a food truck. The boy laid the book down and climbed lazily into his bed taking in the warmth.

Thursday was yet another day Ian was not called into work but they had worn themselves out the day before so they decided to stay in. Breakfast was pancakes, not just any pancakes though, made from scratch and with a little guidance from the professional chef. More than a few of them ended up in the bin on account of them being inedible. But the boys got the hang of it, Seamus stayed back at first but as soon as actively engaged in it they all had a laugh. Ian especially, as he asked his son to decorate the pancakes. On his father's he drew a chef hat, Neville’s had a toad wearing a wizard's hat and Seamus had a goat with some sunglasses. Lunch was some homemade soup which, again, they made. Ian taught them a few foods that go together nicely in soups. It turned out pretty good and between the last meal, they started to play a few games on Dean's Nintendo.

Friday was spent in the Thomas’s gardens. It wasn’t a particularly nice or even large garden but the sun shone so bright and they were left home alone thanks to the demand for five-star food and defence in a courtroom. Dean brought out his sketchbook while the others gathered some books and a football. The day was pretty serene, nothing much but fun nevertheless.

Saturday was the first day both Pam and Ian were off work. That day was quite a journey for they went to the beach which was fairly far from the city. The boys chatted all the way up there, Seamus watched out the windows into the fields while Dean and Neville barely spared a moment to admire the views before reaching the sandy beaches. Thankfully the sun shone strongly down on the earth, the sand was so hot the boy's feet sizzled above it. The boys didn’t waste time running into the crashing waves, all in different-coloured swimming trunks. Dean’s was red, Seamus’s was green and Neville’s a blinding yellow but he wore it along with a black swim shirt along with it. The boy insisted if he took it off his skin would burn so bad he’d die. While they spent the first moments of their arrival throwing themselves into the sea, Pam started to set up the towels and umbrella. Ian helped her but kept his eye on the boys, constantly yelling at them to stop tackling each other.

“Stop trying to drown me, Jesus!” Dean screeched as he finally resurfaced from being pushed over by Neville surprisingly.

“Truce?” Seamus offered, wrapping his arm around his bruised ribs which he said was done by a violent sheep.

Neville put his hands up and laughed, Dean leant back onto the ocean surface floating around while Seamus’s eyes were glued to the collection of lightning styled scars that branched from the centre of his chest. With the boy's eyes closed and face directed to the sun soaking up the radiant heat he didn’t notice the staring, Neville threw little water at him though to make him stop. After an hour or two in the water, they started making sandcastles, Neville’s kept collapsing while Seamus’s melted down a little. Dean was the judge but couldn’t stop laughing at their failed attempts to even start to decide which one of them did a good job at all. Ian and Pam jumped into the water with them for a bit after they all sat to eat chips for lunch. Ice creams were collected from a friendly old ice cream man before they left. Neville’s smile spread ear to ear while his gaze couldn’t be torn from the waves that kept pushing out onto the sand. Seamus dug into his ice cream, it took hold of his attention until he had finished it all and then he watched his friends finish theirs. This overdose of sugar made what was a friendly football match on the sand turn into a ferocious war. Luckily it didn’t take too long before their crash, they were bundled into the car to nap off the sugar high on the long journey back. When they awoke it was outside the Thomas’s residence in London with the sunlight down and darkness flooding the sky that hung above them.

Sunday was more tranquil than Saturday, it rained since before they woke and probably continued long after they fell asleep. The boys stayed inside for most of it, watching the miserable weather safely from behind Dean’s bedroom window. Each were trying to ignore the fact they had to go home at the end of the day so they spent the day distracting themselves through stories, movies and games, also a little bit of magic. But then the dreaded knock at the door came. Neville was the first to be picked up, it wasn’t too glum since it would only be a few more weeks before they were reunited in the dorm back at Hogwarts. Seamus’s mother came for him very late, they spent the time waiting just relaxing with each other. Enjoying the other's company in comfortable silence. Until finally, the knock on the door was for him, his face snapped up at Dean filled with what the boy could only describe as terror. Pure, blatant terror. Something Dean had never seen in his friend before, not when being threatened or heard of a troll roaming the castle or even when they’d found Neville in the common room after running into the golden trio.

The emotion lasted only a couple of seconds then it was as if his face dropped into a neutral blank expression. The boys hugged and said their goodbyes before continuing downstairs.

“Only a few more weeks isn’t it? It’ll fly by”

Seamus nodded, biting his top lip harshly “Yeah yeah. Then back to Ronald snoring every single night”

Dean chuckled a little dryly but hooked his arm around his friends, “Now I’m excited to be back” Seamus picked up his things and laughed. The pair walked together down the stairs. Charlotte was standing by the door with Ian trying to make small talk. As the boys appeared arm in arm the woman shot daggers at him. Not Dean but instead her child who at first tensed but smiled. Like a silent act of defiance. The woman was not too pleased, as shown through her strained smile and the higher pitch in her voice.

“Come on sweetie, your Grandmother is very excited to see you again” Finally it clicked in Dean's mind when his mother grasped his shoulder, her fingers probably outlining the fading bruise perfectly from over his clothes. Seamus waved at his friend and Dean was left in front of his front door feeling a whirlwind of guilt and stupidity causing havoc on his mind. That as well as a little doubt.

Chapter Text

Sunday, 6th September 1992

It was eleven in the morning when Dean waved goodbye to his parents while climbing into the train. It didn’t take too long for the boy to find a compartment filled with familiar faces. Seamus sat closest to the window, his gaze enchanted by the activity on the platform. First-year students cry and hug their parents manically, scared of the school they will soon arrive at. Neville was close beside him, which might explain why Seamus was sitting smaller than usual. Tightly holding his arms around himself with his legs tightly pushing into the wall of the compartment. Immediately Neville jumped from his seat, pulling the newest arrival inside their compartment and into his embrace. Seamus unwinded a little but didn’t rise, Dean threw himself onto the seat beside him leading Neville to take the seat opposite them.

It had not been long since they had last seen each other but the dark-haired boy sat opposite Dean, spilling story after story. Most of which was his grandmother’s adventures, which impressed all the boys, even Neville who had the largest teeth-baring smile they had seen for a while. The pride radiated off his body. Before the train began to move, Dean leaned over to the window and waved one last time to his parents. Seamus smiled lightly while Neville was waving manically before they were disturbed by a faint knock on the compartment door before it slid open a smidge. The three boys all faced the door immediately to find a girl standing with a small smile on her face along with enormous purple sunglasses.

“Good morning” The girl's voice was airy and high, almost angelic-like. “May I join you? The other compartments are already quite busy”

“Yeah of course…” Neville moved closer to the window, looking at the other two slightly confused. Hogwarts was indeed a large school but the population of wizards in and around the UK is not as large as expected. With a personality and look as bold as hers, they probably would’ve noticed if she was present last year.

“Well I’m Dean '' The Londoner smiled politely at the girl. He was certain he’d never seen her before, as a first-year she didn’t seem upset at all. Her pale complexion showed no sign at all of any blush or red puffy eyes from crying. All he seemed to notice was her waist-long blonde hair and her silvery eyes, that and her very bold sense of fashion. Every item of clothing she had on was a very vibrant colour with unique patterns. “This is Seamus and that's Neville. We’re in Gryffindor, is this your first year at Hogwarts?”

The first-year girl placed her bag across her lap and nodded awkwardly at Dean, “Yes it is, I believe I'll be placed in Ravenclaw though. Are the houses important in Hogwarts?”

Seamus snorted and even Neville chuckled before answering the clueless witch, “Very important and the quidditch games are vital. Honestly, it's quite strange but house pride is something most people have. It affects the school in many ways.”

“Well…isn’t that peculiar. So we arrive quite late, do we go straight to tea?”

“One would think, wouldn't they?” The passive aggression in Seamus’s voice was felt by all, his gaze was stuck outside watching the passing of the various fields and woods the train passed.

“All the first-years have to be sorted first and then when they are all sat with their houses Dumbledore will have a little speech and finally we will eat.” Neville managed to say between laughter directed at Seamus.

Luna went on to ask many questions throughout the lengthy trip to the school, many of those questions were extremely malicious and at one point she began to ask about the house elves and how much they were paid. The Gryffindor boys had no way of knowing the answers to the majority of the questions but they certainly had a good go. Dean and Neville stuck to common sense and logical theories whereas Seamus and Luna’s responses were completely out of pocket. The travel to the castle was discussed because last year they used boats to get across the lake but the other years did not. It was a mystery.

Neville and Dean thought they either drove or teleported up using a fireplace. Seamus thought there was a giant herd of Hippogriffs that would be available for the students to ride to the grounds of Hogwarts, Luna thought this would be fun, Dean had to have someone explain what a Hippogriff was while Neville told him how dangerous and reckless that would be. Luna seemed to argue that many aspects of Hogwarts were dangerous like the willow tree that's first instinct is to attack anything that comes close to it. Seamus ended up adding to that saying it was an opportunity for emotional and educational growth which made him and Dean explode into laughter which made Neville red in the face. Luna’s take on all this was that Thestrals would be used to fly back to the Hogwarts grounds.

Thestrals were known to none of the boys, not even Neville knew what they were. Thankfully Luna was kind enough to elaborate. The boys learnt the creatures were skeletal creatures that could not be seen by someone who has not witnessed death. To say the compartment went dark was an understatement. But Luna smiled through it and explained they were some of the smartest creatures in the wizarding world.

Before they arrived at the school, each student changed into their uniform. Seamus’s was still fairly large, hanging from his limbs a fair amount, his shirt stuck out from his polo while his tie was not even done up. Dean didn’t have a polo on nor did he tuck in his shirt whereas Neville’s uniform was the picture of perfection. Luna’s uniform was worn with a beautiful necklace which looked hand-crafted, colours of blue, purple and yellow were arranged on the string. What the beads actually were was a good question. Dean sat looking at it for ages but couldn’t figure out what it was made out of. The girl also wore matching earrings, studs that had a mix of all the colours and some more.

The train came to a halt when they arrived at the station in Hogsmeade, once they had managed to force their way out of the train Luna disappeared which left all the boys stunned. The group were found by the Weasley twins and their extra child Lee Jordan who led them to the beginning of a road that led up to Hogwarts. Carriages were drawn in a circle, stopping for a few minutes before it began the journey all over again. The twins shoved their way to the front of the crowd jumping on the next carriage followed by Lee and Seamus then a very ashamed Dean and Neville.

“How does it move? Is it spelled?” Dean leaned over the carriage to look at the non-existent horses that pulled them along the rough track.

“Thestrals, there these horse thin-'' Fred began before being interrupted by a very proud Seamus.

“Yeah, we know what Thestrals are Fredward” The tone in itself was what made the three second-years giggle to themselves leaving the fourth-years clueless and concerned.

“We were told after we directed the carriage into the forbidden forest for a little trip. We crashed and McGonagall had to send a search party for us. In detention, we were forced to learn everything about them and then take a test. If we failed then we had to do it again” George continued the story with a small smirk but Lee looked saddened when he spoke next.

“I had to do it like three times…wouldn’t recommend following in our footsteps, young ones” His sadness lasted a few seconds and then he wondered what was going to be served at the feast.

It was a wonderful trip, they were able to watch the light in the sky darken until all they could see was what the moon shined down on them. The views of the grounds were magnificent, the castle was a relic but still stood proudly, protecting the children as it was meant to all along. Dean was once again shocked to his core that he attended a school that taught magic in a castle in the middle of nowhere. The fourth-year trio went their separate ways when the carriage stopped but the others made their way straight into the hall joining the others in their year. Hermione was yapping away next to them with Lavender who was just as pleased to be there as she was. Next to her was Parvati Patil, occasionally adding to their conversation but also turning to exchange looks with her sister. It seemed they didn’t need words to have a whole conversation. Harold and Ronald were strangely absent from the hall which felt a little strange to Dean but he’d imaged they’d just done something stupid like miss the train.

Seamus quickly found himself as far away from Lavender as he could get whereas Neville stuck himself right in the middle of the group. Dean stayed in the middle, next to Seamus. One year passed so the top of the table was saved for the nervous first-years meaning Dean was further from the Professor's head table. It didn’t take too long for all the students to get situated at their tables. Then they were being hushed for the entry of the first-year witches and wizards. A giant group of children dressed in pure black robes were led through the centre of the room by Professor McGonagall. Luna was one amongst the crowd, standing out with her colours and bright blonde hair. The Weasley twins pointed out a red-paced ginger girl who was almost hidden amongst the other students, she was yet another Weasley sibling bound to be placed in the Gryffindor house. Dean couldn’t imagine being a girl stuck living in a house with more than five brothers capable of magic. War was the only thing he could imagine, a violent and bloodthirsty war.

McGonagall babbled a little before calling the first timid eleven-year-old up onto the pathetic stall at the top of the hall. It took a while for Luna to be called up to the stage and by that point, there was ringing in the ears of all the people currently inside the hall. The girl sat on the stand with her hands resting on her lap, she scanned the room and smiled slightly spotting the boys she debated with on the way to Hogwarts. The hat was only placed on her head a few seconds before it bellowed Ravenclaw. Of course, the Ravenclaw table cheered merrily while the other houses half-assed clapped but Seamus shot out of his seat, cheering manically with the biggest grin on her face. Dean and Neville soon joined in with him. The girl smiled at them before joining the blue table. A few more students were called before the name ‘Ginny Weasley’ echoed across the hall. Ronald was still absent from the hall however Percy along with the twins all watched her intently. All the teachers looked as if they were anticipating only one outcome to this. And they were not disappointed at all. The hat took no more than a few seconds to screech Gryffindor. McGonagall congratulated the poor girl with a rare smile whereas the majority of the Gryffindor table rose from their seats and exploded into chaotic cheering. The night sky reflected in the ceiling suddenly showed a spectacular meteor shower, hundreds of shooting stars shot across the hall's ceiling glowing a mixture of red and gold. It was beautiful and very clear that the Weasley twins had something to do with it for they were standing on the Gryffindor table with both their wands pointing to the ceiling.

Ginny hurried to the table, a shade of red Dean had never seen in all his years on this planet. Most eyes in the hall were on Fred and George as McGonagall shouted at them to get down and stop their antics. They took their time coming down from the table while the rest of the Gryffindor table continued to cheer for the troublemakers.

It wasn’t long before the rest of the first-years were sorted and Dumbledore took to the podium, waving his arms for the hall to silence. “Last year was a strangely eventful year for Hogwarts where we subsequently lost our beloved defence against the dark arts teacher. This year we have found Gilderoy Lockhart to fill in that position. Everyone should remember but I will repeat this for our new arrivals. The Forbidden Forest is Forbidden and going near the whomping willow tree is prohibited. Let's start the new school year right” And with that said the tables filled with hundreds of plates stacked high with food.

The savage children snatched up the room, stacking it up on their plates high before actually eating it. The first few minutes in the Great Hall were surprisingly quiet as most people wanted to eat more than they wished to gossip to their mates. It took five minutes before Flinch hurried himself down the hall, knees up and breathing heavily. The caretaker crouched between Professors Snape and McGonagall, spoke quietly and then they both hurried out of the hall looking both angry and concerned. Except for Snape who only looked enraged. Dean didn’t think much of it and instead started to listen to how Lavender's holiday was spent. Seamus dug into his food quietly, only taking time to make quite one-line jokes but nothing more. Neville repeated many stories of his grandmother's travels while Hermione spent a while telling Dean about some mythological creatures she’s been researching. Mentioning Thestrals impressed her quite a lot, in fact, he’d never seen her more excited to learn about something. It made the boy feel proud, a pride that made him turn to Luna.

The girl was quite isolated at that table, many people around her were talking easily to one another but she was quiet. He managed to see her attempt at conversation which made people quite taken aback. Dean could feel the silence from there and watched as people around her went back to their conversations kinda leaving her at a distance. Neville was the one who brought him back to the Gryffindor table. It seemed he was going around the table Introducing Ginny to all of her brother's friends. Seamus waved, Hermione was about to speak but Lavender nudged her.

“So Ginny, How did you find the little boat trip? Anyone fall in this year?” Seamus questioned the youngest Weasley with half a grin and most of his attention on the great pile of food he’d managed to balance on his plate.

“N-no…did someone fall in last year?” The girl's eyes were wide and her face still flushed slightly.

“No no Seamus is talking rubbish. No one fell into the lake.” Dean was quick to add while also kicking Seamus slightly in the shin. The poor girl already looked slightly terrified to be there and Seamus wasn’t helping in the slightest.

Hermione managed to get her talking about quidditch of all things. She was very passionate it seemed, Parvati and Lavender bombarded her with questions about Percy. Trying to get some dirt to blackmail him with but apparently, he’s the same way at home. Perfect with no room for doubt. Oliver Wood was with him currently, they were chatting away sitting next to each other. The house prefect took no notice of his little sister or his missing brother but instead listened closely to the friend beside him. Dean hadn’t realised last year exactly how close they were, he’d seen them once in a while studying together but nothing more. Perhaps he just didn’t notice. They were both quite low-key. Except if you mentioned Quidditch.

Dean zoned out for a bit to look around a little, Snape and McGonagall were still gone but Dumbledore didn’t seem too stressed about it. Professor Lockhart seemed to be flirting with the divination teacher, smiling brightly then flicking his golden hair. The boy thought it looked a little pathetic but apparently, she thought it was brilliant. Ew. Draco and his gang of bullies were messing with the poor first-years that seemed like they wanted to cry or run away. There was no sign of Ron or Harry, which was worrying a few more people now, like Percy (who was looking around for signs of his brother) and Hermione, who was asking if anyone saw them on the train. No one did.

The feast went on for ages but the mood lifted higher than it was earlier when desserts filled the tables. Hundreds of different types of sugar-filled snacks are left for the children to snack on until their hearts desire. Ginny’s eyes certainly lit up, as did all the first-years on the table. Everyone else, of course, just went straight in and snatched up whichever dessert they wished to start with. Snape and McGonagall reentered the hall, Severus had a large frown and it almost seemed like there were fumes coming off him whereas the transfiguration Professor was at best mildly irritated. The buzz in the hall was electrifying. Being away so long almost made Dean forget how magical this place was, with the stupidly high walls and really old-fashioned torches with actual fire in them. The boy felt wiser now there were younger students that could potentially look up to him, he hoped they wouldn't look up to Seamus who was currently trying to turn his water into tequila or even Ronald who would literally fight anyone in the morning for something as little as speaking too loudly.

When the students were excused from the hall, the first-years were left with the prefects to get a mini tour and an explanation of the common rooms/house stuff. Neville and Dean basically carried Seamus up all those stairs but somehow Fred and George along with their third twin Lee were running up and down the corridors, speaking with anyone they bumped into and finally into the trio of second-years.

“Party in astrology tower”

“Two hours”

“Don’t get caught”

Just as fast as they appeared, they disappeared clear into the distance. Their voices were carried throughout the entire school but thankfully as soon as the group stepped into the Gryffindor common room they were hit with a calm warmth from the fire. There were a few people chilling on the armrests but most of the younger years had already headed up to their rooms to pass out. The boy's head straight up, Seamus was pushed up by Dean with Neville in front pulling him by his wrists. On Harry's bed feasting on a plate of sandwiches was both the chosen one and his ginger best friend.

“You miss the train?” Dean innocently asked, dumping Seamus face first on his bed, sitting beside his friend.

Ron let out a loud groan but Harry smiled, “Yeah we missed the train but don’t worry, Ronald had the best idea. We drove his father's flying car all the way here and crashed into the most violent tree in britain.”

Seamus laughed loudly into his mattress while Neville rushed to their sides, “Are you guys stupid? You could’ve died! Or been expelled. How are you not expelled?”

Seamus, between laughs, decided to add to this lovely conversation “The boy who lived, innit. Can’t expel a celebrity” At this point Dean had also begun laughing along with Ron. Even Neville cracked a smile but Harry looked offended.

“You missed your sister's sorting. She’s a Gryffindor.” Dean kicked off his shoes, throwing them over to his own bed while pulling himself more into Shay’s.

“Yeah, McGonagall filled me in. How was the food?” Ron dug into yet another sandwich, probably daydreaming about the magnificent feast he missed.

“It was amazing, they had roast beef and these huge fluffy Yorkshire puddings. Literally, the best thing I’ve ever tasted in my life” Neville spoke these words loud and proud. Making Ronald even sadder.

“We were invited to a party in the astrology tower by your delightful brothers who made it rain stars, it’s in a couple of hours if you guys wanna go. Also please go see Hermione. She is annoying when she's worried.” Dean quickly got out as much information as he could before calling over his cat who curled up on top of Seamus’s spine.

“She is in the common room? Never mind we’ll go get her. Wanna come? Bet she’s dying to tell you all about…spells? And stuff-” Harry got up and attempted to brush off the wrinkles in his shirt before heading for the door with Ron and Neville following.

“Nah we choose life” Dean waved them off then lay beside Seamus, without suffocating himself on the mattress. The duo of wizards heard the door shut behind them and insanity relaxed, melting into the comfort of silence. Dean was content just looking up at the ceiling, letting thoughts in his mind wonder and explore. Seamus wasn’t asleep, he could tell from his sharp uneven breaths that vibrated through the mattress. But his face was turned away from his friend, Dean took that as a sign for space. If he wasn’t asked to leave then he would stay until they were made to leave that room tomorrow.

Dean had almost dozed off when Seamus moved, his arms were crossed with his face resting on the back of his hands looking across to his friend. The Londonder blinked a few times, trying to unblur his vision before turning his head over. Shay had his eyes closed, they flickered and would never stay still, he’d clenched them shut so tight it almost looked painful. It was dark in the room, but the fire blazing made enough light for Dean to see the red around his eyes and the glistening trail left from a tear that lined the corner of his eye, over his nose and down across his other cheek. The heavy uneven breaths almost made it seem like the boy was choking, unable to breathe an actual breath. The child pulled his knees up, closer to his chest and took a long deep breath. Dean observed enough to make his heart feel so heavy it felt as if it was pulling him down. The child could even feel his eyes fill with tears on the brink of collapse.

Summer for him was an adventure, An amazing few weeks surrounded by family and friendships. Free to roam the streets of London as he pleased but write to his best friend as often as he could. Never in his mind did he imagine his best friend being anything but happy. Running through the fields of his farm as he did on the grounds of Hogwarts. Talking to sheep as he did to the various magical creatures they’d passed, with a large smile and kindness as if his heart was pure gold. He’d imagine his friend with the largest grin on his face doing anything as dim as helping feed the cows in the freezing morning. Waking before dawn, cupping an enormous cup of hot chocolate and stuffing his face with as much food as he could.

But that wasn’t how it was. Or maybe it was. Perhaps his sorrowful mood was him feeling homesick as he did last year. Something told Dean that wasn’t it, Seamus had a wall put up so high since the moment he saw him on the train. Even that week during the holidays when all of them went down to London, the boy was there but it felt as if he was on a whole different planet. Dean could see it even if Neville couldn’t.

The boy didn’t realise but at some point, they had both drifted to sleep, Dean was lying on his back with his legs over the bed, hovering over the floor yet not quite reaching it. On the foot of the bed was Seamus, curled up on his stomach. But the peace of that room was disturbed by a very awake and active Harry, followed by Ron and Hermione.

“Party is starting, you two coming or not?” Harry got about halfway into the room before he saw Dean half awake, rubbing his eyes, “Sorry mate, didn’t mean to wake you”

“It’s fine but not sure if I’m gonna make that party, too tired now” He was now sitting up, looking down at his friend beside him. Definitely awake but with his eyes still closed, probably attempting to not attend the party and force everyone to leave. “I don’t wanna wake him either so you guys go ahead, enjoy and don’t come storming in to wake us up yet again”

Harry laughed and tried to exit silently, when Seamus heard the heavy door slam harshly against its hinges (Dean could practically hear Harry wince from across the door), the boy opened his eyes and pulled himself up. The boy rubbed his eyes and leaned against one of the wooden posters towards the foot of the bed. Dean leaned against the headboard on the opposite end of the bed with his ginger cat curled up between his legs.

“Dunno how they are going to a party right now.” Seamus’s voice was a little husky, definitely quieter than usual.

“You tired? I can leave if you want, I’ve just sorta taken over your bed-” Dean's voice was unsure but louder than his friend's whispers.

“No…no, I don’t wanna go back to sleep just yet”

“I’ve got an idea.” Dean jumped out of the bed, changed his uniform for a sweater and started hopping around, tugging his shoes on. “Come on, get dressed”

Seamus hesitantly pulled on a hoodie and more gracefully put on some shoes. The two of them snuck out of the common room, making their way through the halls and walking close to the inner wall with every step making as little noise as possible. There was a time they froze in their tracks for they heard a set of footsteps. Confident and clear as they echoed down the halls but eventually it faded until truly unrecognisable. Dean continued to lead his friend through the school until eventually, it became clear where they were going. Up the steep spiral steps of one of the many towers in the castle only to enter a stone room with hundreds of glass-less windows. Almost immediately an owl flew down from one of the higher beams and perched in the centre stand to greet the familiar face. Seamus rushed over to his owl, petting her gently while Dean made his way up the additional stairs to sit on the ledge of one of the larger windows that look out to the forest. The boy was cautious, didn’t sit too close, crossed his legs and leaned back on his arms. It took a few moments for Semaus to join him, the boy was much less cautious and plopped himself down with his legs hanging down the ledge, hundreds of feet in the air.

Seamus was never one to be nervous or scared, not from what Dean had seen from him in the year they had known each other. Happiness for sure, Rage also seen and sadness too but never fear. Not like when Seamus looked at him during the summer holidays before his mother took hold of him. It wasn’t clear to the boy what his home was like but it was obvious that his friend was scared to be home, terrified even. But if he was that scared to be home, Dean didn’t understand why he was sad here. Away from his family, his home, and whatever there that was upsetting him.

“What’s wrong? You’ve been…weird since we were at the station back in London. Are you homesick? I thought you wanted to be here”

“I do want to be here but I do miss home a little bit. I miss my nan. I miss working on the farm with my dad and Paddy. I even miss Mary no matter how annoying she was. I miss Sam-'' Every muscle in Seamus’s body tensed as he peered over the edge. The corner of his eyes glistened from the build-up of tears but he blinked it away before he could actually cry. Whatever he was about to say was choked down aggressively. Dean turned himself to face his friend and took one of his hands, holding the stone cold limb tightly in his grip.

“Shay…I’m scared for you. When you visited you had that massive bruise, the bandaged arm too. It looked like you hadn’t slept properly in weeks too…”

“No. NO, no, no, no, no. Absolutely not. Take that out of your mind Thomas. The bruise was from Paddy, the number of times I almost walked into electric fences every day. Every day he would pull me back from my shoulder. Trust me, it turns a lot less than those stupid fences. I told you the bandage was hot water too” The child lifted his sleeve, a white scar showed. Definitely was a burn mark, fairly small and already mostly faded. “I ran into my mum while she was holding a piping hot tea. My mother is irritating but she's not like that, Dean”

“Oh…” Dean shuffled a little, feeling a little embarrassed now. The boy was so sure, of the way that witch looked at him, her hand was placed on the bruise so perfectly. He was either wrong or he was helpless. “I’m sorry…I just…um..”

“Don’t worry. Don’t expect you to know anything about farm life anyways.” Seamus laughed and squeezed his friend's hand. “Seriously, I’m fine. It’s just a little homesickness…you remember last year? How you healed my homesickness then?”

Dean laughed and nodded, “A lovely little sleepover with all the sweets I’d brought from home”

Seamus raised his eyebrow, turning his head slowly to look at his friend.

“Yes, I’ve got sweets. Well mostly baked goods from my dad.”

“Even better. I missed his cooking”

Dean laughed and turned to face the view, huddled together, the duo froze in the crisp morning air. Seamus leaned into Dean’s shoulder while their hands were still intertwined.

Chapter Text

Monday, 7th September 1992

Seamus awoke to an empty room, the boy’s head dangled down from the edge of the bed while his body lay across. On the floor surrounding the area were various half-eaten snacks and open boxes of baked goods. The nightstand had two glasses of water at least, one of which the boy immediately gulped down. The sun was peeking through the windows while the lingering echoes of the voices from various parts of the castle where the students were enjoying their newfound freedoms away from their guardians. Dean barged into the room making him rise from his awkward position.

“Didn’t think you were ever gonna wake up” Dean’s laugh was warmer than the light, the boy walked through the room carrying two croissants wrapped in a napkin and a jug of apple juice.

“What time is it?” The Irish lad rubbed his eyes harshly and shuffled himself to the edge of his bed, Dean sat opposite on his own bed.

His friend's nightstand was almost always kept bare, so they could move it between them to serve as a table. They gathered the breakfast, as well as poured the drinks then dug in.

“It’s only nine, I was gonna stay for a bit but one of the first-years came in, he was scared of getting lost. I walked him to the Great Hall and picked us up some food.” The Londoner didn’t waste time feasting on his pastry but his attention was solely on his friend. The boy had spent so much of his time trying to be ignored and undetected, it was strange to effortlessly have the attention of someone.

“Christ, haven’t even been here a day but already helped some poor unfortunate children” Seamus admired Dean’s empathy, often times he would watch his friend's kindness and instantly feel better about the world. Then he sees people like Draco, children that undo all the good this world has.

“Children? We are only a year older, I’d hardly call them children” The, apparently starved, wizard had now finished his breakfast and was digging around the room, returning with a fairly new sketchbook in his possession.

“Whatever, they are still younger. Where is everyone?”

“Neville and Theo have gone to the library to do the rest of their homework, Harry, Ron and Hermione are…I don’t actually know about them. I wanted to go out, chill for a bit. Enjoy the heat before it starts to rain and all that”

Seamus quickly scoffed down his croissant as well as drink up all his juice, “Okay I’ll just get dressed”

Early September’s weather was unpredictable, in fact, most weather in Great Britain was. One day it could feel as if you are melting into the floor and the next it could rain so heavily that umbrellas would break under the force of the droplets. Thankfully Dean and Seamus went out into the vast grasslands that surround Hogwarts to find the sun shining brightly down upon the earth. Flooded with heat the two boys decided sitting beside the lake would be the best thing, they both rolled up their baggy jeans to dip their feet into the lake. Most of the day Seamus spent rambling to his friend, enjoying the privacy and freedom. Just being with him made him feel the weight of his worries fly away. Dean was accompanied with his sketchbook, though scratching away rapidly the boy refused to share his works and it was not out of timid tendencies either. It wound up Seamus but he soon moved on. The boy spent the day going through his summer, repeating already told stories from the farm and his own little adventures with his new friend Mary. Somehow the boy managed to bounce around speaking the name of the new employee, something inside him couldn’t bring himself to say the name without picturing him. It felt shameful. Brought him nothing but fear and disgust which had been slowly picking at him since discovering new things about himself. Every time his mind went down this rabbit hole and the conversation went slightly duller, Dean pulled Seamus back. Asking him questions or even just sharing his own tales.

The day felt surreal for Seamus, to be back in the company of his friend. Where he could relax completely. To be himself and to be free. But he would always have an awful voice in his head, telling him that Dean hated him. That everything that brought him happiness was just waiting to collapse on itself. It was something that even Dean could not make go away.

The sky darkened eventually while the calm waters of the Black lake grew icier and icier by the second. The two boys chased each other inside, running up the hill to see who could make it behind the castle walls the quickest. It was in fact Seamus, after he pushed Dean down only a few feet from the doors.

Tuesday, 8th September 1992

Finally, a day of actual lessons arrive and the Finnigan boy couldn’t be more excited. He had not done magic in a while, the boy could feel it in his fingertips even thinking about it but the consequences of his emotions usually involve fire of some sort. At breakfast, Professor McGonagall and the other head of houses walked up and down the table handing out the new timetables. As well as doing that she also did a uniform check, making sure everyone was up to code. Dean was perfect as usual however Seamus suffered some criticism of his tie, untucked shirt, muddy shoes and a hole the teacher managed to find in his robe which was believed to be a strange skill for a teacher to have. But he told the teacher he would have it sorted before his first lesson. Dean was the one to actually drag Seamus back to the dorm, while Seamus brushed down his shoes in the bathtub, his friend examined the hole in the robe then managed to sew it up. Seamus didn’t even realise he had a sewing kit but there it was, tucked neatly into the bag of his belongings. When finally he had reassembled his outfit, Dean stood him in front of the bathroom mirror and tried showing him how to do his tie, though the boy was too distracted by his friends' annoyingly close breath to watch.

The first lesson of the day was Herbology with Professor Sprout, Neville got there extremely early and had been waiting outside the greenhouse for a while before being allowed in by the teacher. Seamus and Dean were one of the last in but spent a lot of time after, recovering from sprinting across the castle. Thankfully the teacher showed them merci and allowed them to recover while she explained what they were doing. Moving Mandrake seedlings as it turned out which for Dean sounded great but Seamus only smirked at his clueless friend. Each student was warned to wear the earmuffs to prevent damage to their ears, if this was a raging red flag of danger Seamus didn’t know what was. Seamus and Dean managed to miss all the descriptions of the Mandrake while messing around with another plant but were drawn back to attention when the piercing cries of the plant made their brains turn to mush. Even when clasping onto the earmuffs the deafening wails were slapping the students across the face with an unexpected force. Seamus had to remind himself that these were only young mandrakes and they already had on ear protection. The Irish lad turned to his friend, hoping to move closer to him as if it would do anything at all but suddenly Neville, who stood between them, dropped to the floor.

“Nevilles forgotten his earmuffs, has he?”

Seamus crouched to his friend and nudged the earmuffs to examine their placement, “No ma’am, think he’s just fainted”

“Leave him there then, right then-” The professor went on with her instructions and demonstration, Seamus watched but from the corner of his eye could see his friend fold up his robe and slide it under Neville’s head.

In theory doing it didn’t seem difficult, lift it from the soil with a firm grip then place it in a pot and add soil around it. Literally just replanting something. However the relentless hysterical bleating of these insufferable creatures made it torture. Though Seamus had fun waving it closer to people while Dean managed to bury his in soil before Neville even woke up. Once the Longbottom boy did wake up, he did it before Seamus too. It seemed any time Seamus would attempt to put the soil in, it would have a fit. Any time his hand was anywhere near the plant it would go in for a munch. And any laughing would make the thing cry harder. It had all the signs of being Satan's spawn. But the lesson ended with all the Mandrakes hand planted in the soil and some additional information like how not only do they share the physical features of humans but also share in human behaviours.

Transfiguration was next, it seemed this year all the teachers wished to start the year with practical. The objective was to turn a beetle into a button. Most beetles ran across the desks, moving too quickly for any spell to successfully work. Seamus and Dean spent most of the hour watching Ronalds wand fire a thick disgusting cloud of stinky grey gas any time he attempted to use his broken wand. The two pieces were hanging together by just a lather of sellotape. When the smoke eventually cleared what was revealed was a crushed beetle on the table. The look on McGonagall’s face sent the two boys into hysterical laughter, they’re endless chuckles managed to get the whole class roaring. It took a while for the rest of the class to compose themselves, Seamus and Dean were still giggling too much to actually manage the spell. Out of the class of around 20 children only one was able to perfect the spell, Hermione Granger left the classroom with a handful of beautiful black buttons. Dean left with a black button, not completely round and it had a strange texture but it could be recognised as a button which was good enough to put a smile on both of their faces.

After lunch was the last lesson of the day but their first lesson with the new Defence against the Dark Arts professor. The classroom used was completely different from the year before for the third floor corridor was no longer out of bounds, it was more bright and more safe. The absence of the manic delusion Professor Quirrel brought to the school got rid of the overwhelming stench of garlic. Instead of garlic, this Professor had on display many portraits of himself. In fact, not a single portrait in this room was without the face of the celebrity. By the sides of the classroom were books, stacks and stacks of various books except the more time Seamus spent looking at them he noticed the author. Every single book in that room was written by Gilderoy Lockhart. Seamus and Dean picked a table to the side and by the window both almost disgusted by the vain personality of the man. Though it seemed almost every girl in the classroom was charmed (Except Hermione), Seamus was immune to the man's allure, perhaps it was his preposterous behaviour or the way Dean whispered witty jokes of the man in his friend's ear.

“Today class, I have prepared for you a little quiz to begin. You will have half an hour to complete it”

The man handed out the quiz, it was pages long with fifty four questions which made anyone with sense groan except Hermione who looked happier than Seamus had ever seen her. The quiz was all questions about the professor sourced by his autobiography ‘Magical Me’. While the students were busy attempting the quiz the man gazed at a portrait of himself. Seamus wrote a note to Dean on a scrap piece of parchment, ‘try thinking of the stupidest answers, most wrong answers win’. As soon as his friend read it a small smirk grew maliciously on his face, a small nod and the game commenced.

‘What is Gilderoy Lockhart's favourite colour?
Gold, to represent the whole bunch of gold he makes from those books and his simple presence’

‘What is Gilderoy Lockhart's preferred birthday present?
A mirror in which he can stare deeply into his own eyes’

‘How many books has Gilderoy Lockhart written?
More than one but less than a million’

Seamus did not spend long answering and neither did Dean, when they’d finished they swapped quizzes and snickered quietly. The professor was too enticed by his own picture he didn’t notice, Neville wondered what the muffled laughter was about so they showed him and he began to laugh too. The sniggering lasted a while, unitil the time available for the test ran out and the tests were collected. Marking only took a few minutes with a magical quill and the man went through them tutting. But one he held proudly with an awful grin that seemed to make the girl more interested in listening.

“Only one person got full marks, I am quite disappointed it was only one but for this achievement Miss Hermione Granger will be awarded ten points to Gryffindor. As for some of you, I am particularly disappointed as some of the answers I had read were completely absurd.”

Now the maniac had revealed a cage with a thick fabric coated over the top, shielding whatever was inside from the stares of the children or shielding the children from whatever rattled inside.

“In this cage beside me are a group of around eight to ten freshly caught cornish pixies. Can anyone tell me what Classification they are?”

Hermione’s hand shot up like a bullet, many others also raised their hands but it was as if she was being lifted from her arm.

“Beast XXX'' Hermione blurted out when the golden-haired teacher pointed to her. He then nodded and took the cover off the cage to reveal a group of tiny electric blue pixies shooting across the cage making it shake violently.

“They’re not, not dangerous, are they?” Seamus nervously peered over to them with a raised eyebrow, they were only small but magical creatures could have all sorts of hidden strengths.

“These are devilish little blighters but can be easily dealt with by using a very specific spell. Here I’ll demonstrate”

With one swift move the professor opened the cage door letting the pixies chaos flood the room. Their squeaks of the creatures drowned out Professor Lockhart's insistence that he could sort it but by then it was too late. The creatures were attacking the children, pulling on their hair and throwing things across the room. Seamus quickly dragged Dean beneath the table, they crouched under the shelter of the wood. Dean watched the scene behind, his face almost unreadable but his eyes frightened as they darted around trying to track the chaotic pixies. Seamus didn’t realise at first but his grasp on Dean's hand was still quite tight and the trembling of their hands was not Seamus’s doing at all.

“Hey hey hey. It’s fine, we’ll make for the door, okay?” Seamus’s voice was low, their faces so close the boy could feel the sharp uneven breaths from Dean. But his friend nodded. The school bell rang loudly, that was all it took for Seamus to squeeze his friend's hand and drag the child through the classroom pulling him through the door before he followed. Both ran from the classroom through the many halls of the school before they stopped at a fairly dormant hall, the boys leant against the stone walls to catch their breath. Then the laughter set in, loud cackles spread the empty hall, so forceful the flames that stuck to the walls flickered and danced in their sound. Eventually they slumped down, sat leaning against the cold rocky wall, hands gently held together but neither one pulling away.

“That was…strange.” Dean’s voice was timid.

“Is it just me or does he seem a little inexperienced?” Seamus knocked his knees against his friend with a smile.

“That or he loves a good entrance” Dean cracked a small smile and took a deep breath.

“It was certainly a first lesson to remember” Both boys stayed a while in that hall, eventually they got parchment from their bags and began to work on the little homework they had received that day.

Later that evening, the five Gryffindor boys huddled around the centre stove which radiated much heat to save them from the freezing cold of the tower. Seamus and Dean were both sitting at the foot of Dean’s bed, Neville was curled up in an armchair with a thick woolen blanket thrown across him whereas Ronald was comfortable on the floor leaning on the bed that Harry was on.

“So how did you deal with the Pixies?” Dean was on the edge of the bed, eager to find out.

Seamus was laid back with better questions filling his mind, “Why on earth were you lot given the job to deal with them? I mean, Ron, I’ve seen you walk into my bed almost every night for an entire year. And you, Harry, you tried to wack one of them with your wand. A stick”

Neville chuckled while Ronald only rolled his eyes, Harry actually answered said questions, “The coward of a man ran to his office after all the spells he used were proven to be useless. Then Hermione used a freezing spell, all we did was pick up the little demons and put them back in the cage.”

“So without Granger, I’d still be hanging from the ceiling while Pixies beat you lot up” Neville finally spoke up, much to Ron's disappointment, and was now red.

“No, that's definitely not what happened, If my wand wasn’t hanging by a thread I would have done the exact same thing. But sooner….and better?” Ron truly started strong there but his confidence faded as the laughter of his friends only grew louder.

“Right anyways, Harry, you’ve got Quidditch tomorrow, don’t you?” Dean put his hands up to the stove, hoping the warmth will distract him from the icy chill in the room.

“Yeah, Oliver said it’s important too. I’m really gonna hate waking up at six again” Harry groaned then flopped back onto his bed, his arms spread.

“We’ll pray for you as we lay sleeping soundly in our nice warm beds” Seamus smirked and leaned forward so that his eyes reflected the beautiful yellow dancing of the flames that lay before him.

“Keep talking like that and I’ll wake you up with me” Harry’s whole body lay across the table but his head popped up long enough for Seamus to see his giant grin.

The conversation died out from there, Harry attempted some sleep and Ron went soon after. Neville chilled for a bit but eventually went to bed leaving Dean and Seamus in front of the stove, sitting so close their legs pressed firmly together. Neither one of them moved or spoke, for a while they just sat watching the fire as it moved in the metal stove. Dean dropped back once he’d had enough, when Seamus looked back the boy's eyes were closed and his limbs unmoving and relaxed. Seamus went to leave his friend to sleep but the boy's hand caught his wrist then tugged at it to pull him back.

“Don’t go yet”

Dean’s eyes were still closed but Seamus sat back next to him. The boy also laid back onto his friend's bed, his eyes focused on the ceiling and his breathing.

“It doesn’t matter how many times I have to do this. I always feel a little homesick after coming here…I imagine that won’t stop.”

“I don’t blame you. London was magical when I last visited. Your parents wonderful and welcoming, if I lived there…Christ I don’t think I could bring myself to go”

“That was not helpful at all”

Seamus at first believed he had upset his friend but thankfully the child that lay beside him began to giggle, quietly it began but once it started it couldn't stop. It got worse any time they turned to look at one another, they trashed on the bed with explosive laughter that bounced around the walls of the castle. So loud, so bold that the pair had various items thrown at them followed by a few strongly worded suggestions to keep quiet. The boys muffled their laughter but it never really stopped. Not for a while and by the time they did, both boys were already drifting into sleep. In front of them were the roaring flames and beside them was each other. For that Seamus slept soundly, slept warmly. Something he had rarely done since the last year at Hogwarts.

Tuesday, 8th September 1992

It was around 7 AM when Seamus was knocked awake by Neville as he was on his way out. Once he’d gone the room was vacant, the only thing that kept him company was the cold exhale of breath. The sun was hidden behind thick greys clouds, the birds were awake and singing happily in the cold morning of September. The crisp feeling in the air brought the boy back to the chill of his home, of the shed in the back where he was to sleep when dragged from his home. The thought of it made him bounce from his friends bed and find refuge in the restroom, where the child turned on the hot water and climbed in without second thought to the clothes he wore. The child's body began to go numb as his cold skin was beaten with boiling water that gathered steam that filled the room quickly. The clothes were now heavy, dragging him down on his knees where he began to feel the true heat of the water. The burning sensations dripped down his body, hitting him again and again but the boy dare not move. His face was pulled forward so that the brunt of the water hit his back. He stayed, hissing at the pain but breathing deeply and clenching his fists until it became too much.

When the boy stepped out of the shower, the condensation in the room was thick, almost thick enough to choke him. Seamus quickly threw on his school uniform but without the grey jumper and tie, instead he flung the black cloak around his shoulders it would ease his pain. Dean burst through the door just as Seamus left the bathroom, the boy had a large grin and his sketchbook clutched tightly in his hands.

“Quidditch training was mental. Oliver has lost the plot”

Seamus laughed at his friend's dramatics as he strutted through the room telling him all about the crazy drills the captain had made and how frantic he was acting. It lasted until they had reached the Great Hall for breakfast, the tension in the hall was elevated, Seamus felt his cheeks flush feeling as if everyone was following him with his eyes down the hall, his eyes stayed on the back of his friends head until he reached the table.

~~~~~~~~~~

As the day passed the boys heard that Ronald was cursed by his own wand, at first, Seamus laughed until he found out that it was aimed at Draco after calling Hermione a ‘Mudblood’. A that sadly both young boys had grown accustomed to the use of this word, whispers in halls and bullies as they pass. It seemed as if the use of the word seemed only acceptable by a small number of vile humans. Draco Malfoy being one of them. The child was spoiled and arrogant, he believed he was better than everyone. Hermione had been victim of this hate, Dean was saddened when he’d heard of it but all Seamus’s felt was rage. A pent up rage that seemed only to fester inside of him. So in front of Dean and his other friends, he made jokes and smiled while his heart ached and his bones tremble with rage.

~~~~~~~~~~

That same evening, Ron and Harry had detentions so the other Gryffindor Second-years, even Ginny, was sat by the fire in the common room. On the couch was Ginny, Hermione, Lavender and Parvati, the armrest’s were taken by Seamus and Neville with Dean sat leaning on Seamus’s chair.

Hermione was cuddled up next to Ginny, the girl looked gloomy and her eyes sorrowful but she refused to shed a single tear, at least not in front of Seamus. Neville looked saddened but the other two girls tried to lead the conversation into more gleeful topics which the other happily played along too.

“Dean, How is London? We tried to visit during the break but it appeared we ran out of time during our travels” Lavender questioned kindly while Parvati sat closely beside her, practically vibrating at the edge of her seat.

“I can’t tell you much, I live there. Neville and Seamus could probably tell you more” Dean peered up from the book he held in his hands only for a moment to look at the girl but then went back to reading as Neville swiftly went to describe the whole trip.

“First thing we saw was the Tower of London, the most secure castle in the whole of England. I think it’s haunted, it felt like death and imagine how many people died there…Anyway it was really cool” The boy was ecstatic speaking of the city, he missed no detail and he even began to pace before the fireplace. Seamus thought it began to look like a performance. The boy told them much about the beach, the field where Dean and his friends played football and even the theatre experience. Everyone was absorbed by the interesting tales and by the end of it the boy collapsed on his chair taking sharp breaths to recover his composure. Hermione seemed thrilled by his stories and began to share some of her own. It seemed her parents had brought her to London also, a day trip where they ventured into the city and its various attractions.

“You’ve been twice now, haven't you? Nothing to add?” Partavi looked at Seamus from across the little semi-circle with a raised eyebrow, probably curious as to why he’d not shared the great adventures of the city.

Seamus shifted in his seat, lowering his back onto the chair gently and putting as little weight on it as possible, “Well Neville basically spilled all about our little trip and I didn’t go nowhere special the first time, just destroyed Dean’s home and bullied his friends while they played football. My time in London was not a holiday, just me hanging with a friend”

“Yeah my home has not recovered from your visits, My parents still weep when they see the giant stain in their front room rug” Dean looked up at his friend with the back of his head digging into the cushion of the chair. Neville’s cackling was so contagious the other began to giggle even without knowing the entirety of the story, nor was it explained for Neville took some time out into the hall where his laughter continued just muffled slightly by the brick wall between them.

Ronald was the first to return from detention, he took Neville’s seat without so much as a hesitation then put his feet up unto the coffee table casually. The child went on, non-stop, about how much of a hardship it was to clean trophies for no less than an hour and a half. Most listened with a small smile, enjoying the strangest and most brilliant insults he was so casually throwing at the teachers and the ridiculous rules of the school. It was like watching a parade of chaos and offence sitting comfortably in front of a fire. Harry was next to arrive, looking exhausted and confused. The boy dropped himself on the arm of his friend's chair.

“I’ve just spent two hours helping Gilderoy Lockhart reply to fanmail, most were traumatising, more than my time with the Durselys while some were truly remarkable. I want those two hours back and I would love a new defence against the dark arts teacher”

Ron burst out with a laughter that only grew louder as it travelled through the tower. The others joined in too, except the girls who mostly seemed offended by Harry's words. Seamus felt a little bad for him, the man was insufferable enough when in a class of thirty but left alone with him for two hours reading compliments would be soul-crushing. That night the laughter between the second years lasted until darkness had almost flooded the room, the only light being the dying fire. Slowly the large group chipped down to but a few people until eventually it was Seamus and Dean. A few others occupied the common room but most were half asleep while scribbling on parchment.

Neither one of the boys had moved, Dean still on the floor beside his friend with a book resting on his legs.

“Do you have a football here?”

“No, didn’t think there would be many people here who understands the game”

“It's not hard, it's a pathetic version of quidditch”

“Non lethal version but yeah, why?”

“Fancied a game, it’s boring here. We could defeat Slytherin all over again”

Dean laughed and finally closed his book, then looked up to his friend with interest, “I can ask my parents to send one? It shouldn't be hard to inflate it with the magic here.”

Seamus nodded and stretched out his legs, kicking the book from his friend's lap “Yeah. I wanna see Neville kick around a ball”

“Don’t, I. I can’t even imagine” The boy picked up his book and got himself up, “I’ll write to them tomorrow, we can tell him the amazing news now!” Dean grabbed his friend and ran up the spiral staircases of the tower excitedly.

Chapter Text

Sunday, 25th October 1992

The sky was clear of the misery of rain clouds and instead, all that filled the sky was humidity. Seamus wore his baggy jeans and a small white vest, the boy had only been out a little over an hour but was sweating so much it was dripping from his forehead. Dean wore something similar except with some black shorts, all they brought to the greenery outside was a chess set and a football. The boys had spent most of the beginning of term getting used to life at Hogwarts once again, the studying and homework. For Dean, the lack of family and Seamus, being able to sleep past 5:30 AM. Letters for Dean were frequent and plenty, his parents wrote once a week maybe more and would always send some baked goods or little presents for him and Seamus. The letters for Neville were plentiful too, his grandmother spoke as often as she could and when she travelled she liked to send a picture and souvenir. Ron had a few but his family were busy and he wasn’t an overly loved child. Harry and Seamus had not a single letter throughout the first month of school, nor did they get many last year. Harry's aunt and uncle were vile people, the boys had heard stories of their blatant abuse towards Harry that made their blood boil.

Seamus didn’t mind receiving any letters. It would only remind him of home and that wasn’t something that brought him a considerable amount of joy. Dean’s family were enough, the treats they sent, the presents and the way they made his friends' faces light up, his mood better than before even if he was his cheery self.

Back to the present, Seamus laid sideways across the grass watching his friend set up a strange game of chess. The pieces were arranged across the entire board, mixed and with labels.

“It seems so complicated though”

“Do you think Quidditch was easy to learn?”

“Ball in goal, why do you need all this?”

“Why does your game need six goals, four different balls, brooms and bats?”

Seamus rolled his eyes then pouted, since he is of muggle background he knew what football was. However, the child only played silly games and it wasn’t particularly popular where he was from. The only rules of the game he knew was don’t touch the ball with your hands and the main premise was to get the ball in the opposing net. Watching the excitement on his friend's face as he went through all the minuscule details of the game was fascinating to say the least. The passion was obvious and made Seamus smile so much so Dean questioned whether he was listening. It took a long while for Seamus to get the hang of all the positions and all the rules.

Eventually, they did start kicking about the balls, they made goals out of twigs and tried to make a game out of it. It was great for a while, Seamus was more aggressive but Dean had skill that enraged his friend. Whenever he deemed appropriate he would show off the tricks he’d learnt over the summer, Seamus would attempt to copy him but realised quite quickly that he did not have the patience nor talent for that. The few games they did play were certainly interesting and Seamus did manage to score some goals but got so frustrated with the goals that he kicked the ball hard. Both boys watched as it soared through the sky only to dive into the Black Lake causing quite a large ripple through the water.

“That’s the only one I have-”

“Well, it’s not disappeared, has it? It’s just gone for a swim”

“To the middle of a lake which is home to a terrifyingly monstrous squid.”

“Yeah…not great is it”

Dean looked at him for a few moments until Seamus began to empty his pockets and take his shoes off, the Black Lake was usually harmless but the boys had heard of some people being thrown from the water by the very moody squid. Seamus hoped that he was in a better mood when he dived into the water face first, arms stretched above his head. The water was so cold it made the boy's limbs so numb, so numb in fact he could barely feel them. The jeans weighed him down, making him feel that with every kick he was closer to drowning. When the boy finally got used to the water he smirked at his friend, brushing his sandy hair back so it was slicked back. It felt better to have the hot sweat washed away from his body, the lake was freshwater so thankfully he didn’t have to deal with the awful feeling of salt in his hair and all over his body once he’d gotten out. The ball took a bit of swimming to get to and by that point he was a few metres in, the many habitants of the lake had yet to notice the child's presence.

Without thinking it through the boy pulled himself forward and attempted to swim down, deeper and deeper into the water. Thankfully the bright day made sure he could navigate his way through the water for a good while before it was only darkness but his breath would run out way before then. It was only one thing he’d hoped to see before heading back to the surface and there it was. Before him was a dusky purple creature with numerous long tentacles more than he could count, so long the creature battled the movement of water just to keep them in control and even still they tangled together. Its size didn’t seem like much at first until it began to get closer, then thebone-chilling size of the squid widened Seamus’s eyes and caused him to go into a panic. The squid stopped swimming and for a moment to observe the little wizard, Seamus did not even know where to look but was frozen just staring at the centre of his head. The enormous size of the squid would have thought to slow it down but it shot past the boy, it was as if he blinked and it was already on its way past with its tentacles wrapped lightly around the boy. The creature pulled the boy closer to the surface than he was before then retired back to the deepest and darkest parts of the water.

That was when the boy's heart rate slowed enough for him to realise he was in desperate need of some oxygen, he clawed at the water until he’d finally peered over the surface taking the deepest and most desperate breaths he could. Dean grabbed his friends shoulder lightly, with no weight at all that would pull him down.

“Hey hey hey you okay? What’s going on? Why’d you go under?”

Seamus took a few seconds trying to catch his breath and swim away but Dean’s grasp only grew tighter.

“Wanted to see the squid, ennit”

Dean’s face dropped and he pulled his friend's shoulder down harshly, making him sink below the surface a little. Seamus grabbed his friend to pull himself up then slapped the water onto him.

“What was that for?”

“Almost drowning yourself so you can look at a stupid poxy squid”

Laughter began to pour from the little Irish kid, it just went on and on. So addictive even Dean began to chuckle, it was pure and innocent. Just a while Seamus was just a child, a child with no burdens and no sorrows. To many others, Seamus might be seen as the ‘sunshine’ character in their little relationship but in reality, it was Dean, for every bad thought Seamus ever had Dean brought him twice as many good ones. Every time Seamus found himself in a bad way Dean was always there to bring him out of it.

The two of them brought the ball out of the water soon after so that any other dark creatures lurking in the lake didn’t get the chance to notice them too. They dragged themselves onto dry land, carrying the heavy weight of their soaked clothes onto the soft cool grass. Since the weather was exceptionally nice that day they dried off fairly quickly, enough to be welcomed inside the Great Hall without being asked to change. After lunch a few people joined them outside, Neville and Theodore as well as Ginny. The little group of them went out to the fields, this time closer to the castle than the lake. Football was strange as both Ginny and Theodore had never heard of it plus the teams were uneven. Dean attempted to explain the game but all people wanted to do was kick the ball. And that they did.

Most of the day was spent chasing the ball after someone had booted it the wrong way, Seamus and Ginny raced many times and almost always the boy would trip her after she got possession. Theodore was always a little behind to help her up, as the day went on the more her temper boiled, the more she pushed back. Most people ended up going back in fairly soon and once it was just Seamus and Dean, they sat by the lake for the remainder of the day.

~~~~~~~~~~

Halloween was soon to arrive, when it did the teachers prayed for a peaceful day. But it seemed Halloween always riled up the worst in everyone. Fred and George were more excited than ever with Lee sat between them with a devilish smirk on his face, it was breakfast when their first disruption was made clear. The ceiling of the hall became dark during the busiest time of the morning. The darkness was not even accompanied by stars or a replica of the moon. Just darkness, for a moment it seemed as if it was melting down towards the children. Smoke fell from the sky but Dumbledore had seen enough, with a little wave of his wand it all began to spiral and clear from the room leaving a truer image of the sky. The Weasley twins seemed to have a mission to terrify children, the faces of the first years gave that impression. As did Seamus’s expression, as much as he attempted to hide it when the darkness swallowed the room the boy froze. Thinking only of the nights he spent in that darkened shed, cold and hurting. Most importantly he was alone, his parents close, his godfather closer. Everyone was within reach but no one was there to save him. The boy was pulled from his seat and guided quite roughly out of the hall, he ended up in a vacant hall looking blankly at his best friend.

“What is wrong with you? And don’t you dare tell me you’re scared of the dark because you once dragged me through the castle in the dead of night.” The slight anger in his voice was rare for him, it wasn’t an anger that made Seamus flinch and wanna crawl into a hole to hide. The boy knew it came from a place of worry, that was clear.

“I-” The boy started with much confidence, he wanted to say the words and he wanted so badly to tell his friend what had been weighing on him, what made him feel disgusted enough to shower in scorching hot water until his skin began to blister. But he couldn’t come out. Every time he thought about it he tried to convince himself it wasn’t real, that he was just going through a phase and eventually he would see girls in the same way as Dean and all the other boys in the school. And all of a sudden he was choking on his words, unable to clearly utter more than a syllable.

Dean’s anger was quick to fade to nothing but worry and regret for his words, “You don’t have to tell me but Shay…You’ve not been right since we got back. I don’t know what it is and I thought with time you’d tell me but you’ve not said a word. You know you can tell me anything, I wouldn’t judge, I wouldn’t repeat it to another soul, I just want you to be okay”

Seamus turned to face the window, not seeing past the glimmers on the glass, but blinking enough to keep the tears from falling down his cheek. Dean was close, the boy's reflection was faded on the glass but clear enough for Seamus to see the sadness that shadowed him. The boy put his hand on Seamus’s shoulder and squeezed it gently until Shay took a deep breath and turned as if nothing had happened. “Come on, we are missing one of the best breakfasts of the year”

The smiles between them were bright once again, bouncing back immediately from the dull and sorrowful mood that once filled the hall. The hall was a lighter setting, kids playing with the decorations and the teacher more relaxed than usual. Lessons that day were themed to a more darker and mysterious side of their topic, something a wizarding school could excel at. The defence against the dark arts was certainly frightening, the Professor closed the blinds then showed them a video of a dark creature giving them only a little information to begin with. The kids spent most of the lesson piled up at the back of the classroom, jumping from their seats every couple of minutes, screaming at the top of their lungs. At some point, they’d reached a fairly tame part of this movie so Seamus thought it would be funny to take the skeleton arm from the display in the corner of the room and then brush the knuckle on Ronald's cheek. The scream that came from that child sounded as if he expelled all the air in his lungs and then some. It was horrific. Dean was quick to take the skeleton hand away from him, even hitting his arm with it.

Seamus was sent out of the room for the rest of the lesson and found himself sitting opposite the door, leaning his sore back against the cold rugged stone walls of the castle. Any slight winds moving towards the giant structure beat against the stone and slipped through the cracks, making the castle halls freezing. As the boy sat freezing a young witch walked by, the strange girl from the train with hair so blonde Seamus had to quint as he looked up at her.

“May I sit?” The girl’s socks were a mix of neon pink and blindly vibrant yellow with her voice slightly squeaky but light.

“I can’t stop you” The boy shrugged and gestured to the side of him before she plopped herself down, dropping her knitted bag beside her.

“You know you learn a lot more inside the classroom and not staring at the door, right?” The first-year girl seemed genuine in her question but instead of facing Seamus, she faced the closed wooden door.

“I am aware. My humour has condemned me to a life of regret and abandonment” The boy uttered with a straight face keeping his eyes focused on the door.

“Outcasts never become who they need to be without suffering and sorrows. Your time will come, Finnigan, I can feel it” This was finally the moment Seamus turned the girl, looking not at the door but through it. As if she could see much more than him.

“Who knows what God has in store for you. I’m sure it’s something just as special as you little Lovegood '' It had only been a few months at school but Luna had been given quite a cruel name ‘Loopey Luna’. Seamus refused to say it, even demanded others stop but many still used it. Hermione, Ginny and he even heard Lavender use it. It was because she danced to her own tune, was courageous in the face of peer pressure and bullies. The girl knew who she was, confident in such a casual way it made Seamus feel jealous almost.

“You need not pretend in front of me, Seamus. You do not feel god's presence, you do not have faith in a man who has laid sin in your heart” It was as if everything the boy was frightened about, feared within himself just lay exposed and vulnerable in front of this strange girl he speaks to very briefly. Sweat began to accumulate on his forehead, the beating of his heart pounding manically in his chest. “Do not fear. I know not what sin it is, just that it burns within you like the magic that runs in your veins…Don’t look at me all surprised, you’ve been at this school for a year yet it is clear you are gifted in pyrotechnics. Did you know some wizards a couple of hundred years ago were rumoured to have been able to turn into dragons and breathe fire? Course these myths could stem from a gifted pyrotechnic who could in theory breath fire.”

Conversations shared with Luna Lovegood were something to be cherished for she gave insight and strange facts one might be expecting but could certainly need. It was clear the girl would enjoy the art of divination and the future lessons in defence against the dark arts. Right up her strange and wondrous street. “If I am ever capable of such magic Luna you’ll be the second to know”

“Only seems fair. Besides, if you were to do magic that advanced my guess would be he would be right by your side, as he always is” The girl turned to face Seamus, again it was as if something was behind him. Something grand and wondrous but he turned to see an empty hall with nothing but stone and glass.

“I suppose we are together quite a lot…You know you are always welcome to join us if-”

“I am aware of your feelings towards me but disturbing you and Dean often feels like a crime against this school. I do not like going against nature besides I enjoy my own company”

“I also enjoy your company. You are strangely intellectual for an eleven-year-old”

“You act strangely childish for a twelve-year-old.”

“Don’t you have a lesson or something to run off to?”

“Ahh but don’t you?”

The girl smirked but did read this as a sign to leave Seamus in the dark and twisted hallway, for his mind to pray on his own thoughts. After a few minutes, the teacher went to welcome Seamus back into the class but he had gone for a wonder by then. When parading around the halls, he began to hear a strange rumbling sound, it grew greater and greater until it was so loud Seamus felt slightly alarmed. It took only a few seconds for Seamus to see them down the hall, a colony of bats was swarming down the hall straight for the boy. He ran round the corner, leaning his back against the wall praying they will not even notice him.

And they did not.

The colony whipped around the corner, blurred imaged of the creatures zoomed past and at the end it seemed they were dragging the large Gryffindor banner (From the Great hall) behind them wherever they went. It took but a minute for the whole event to pass, Seamus laughed when they were out of sight knowing full well who’d be behind something as stupid as that. The hysterics only got worse when Argus Filch was running very much behind them, breathing hard and sweat dripping from his forehead. The boy decided to just walk around more, still smiling but eventually dropping as the thoughts in his head began to spiral, dragging his fingers across the rough textures of the stone, cold enough to remind him of home, until he reached an outward stone that was sharp enough to slice a thin layer of skin off the tip of his finger. The boy walked forward a little more then turned, using his other hand he pushed his palm onto the wall and dragged it across the walls hissing slightly when the stone impaled his skin ripping open his flesh. One of the paintings brought him back to reality, thankfully since it was the middle of a lesson the building was still with only the painting awake and present. The painting closest to him that caught his attention was a young woman holding a baby in her arms and close to her chest. The woman looked woeful at the child which made him feel worse than he already did, it was as if she was about to say something but she only managed to get out a word before Seamus hurried down the corridor and to the first toilet he could find.

“Why”

A question that repeated over and over in his mind until it was all he could think about. The boy had his hand under a soft stream of water, in the sink washing the blood down the drain. He couldn’t tell how long it had been before a stall door slammed closed, once again he was snapped back into focus but when he turned he didn’t see a living soul. When he turned around a pale young girl, sorry ghost, was standing in the sink just behind the taps that were washing out his little cut.

“Christ, where the hell did you come from?”

It took but a few seconds for her neutral face to drop into a childish frown, “You’re the boy who’s lurking in the girl's bathroom”

Seamus’s face also dropped as he looked around to see just two lines of stalls further into the room, the ghost's face was now shockingly happier. “S-sorry it was the first room I found.” With no reaction from the girl the boy began to back up to the door, “I’ll just find the boy's toilet then-”

The ghost floated in front of the door as if to block his way as if she had no density at all. “That’s okay. This is not the most popular destination in Hogwarts…That’s a nasty slice on your hand, you fall onto a sword?”

“There are some sharp stones in the courtyard and some very slippery grass” Seamus retreated back to the sink where he pressed paper towels onto the cut until the bleeding slowed to a halt. The ghost was strange in the way she looked at the boy, it was as if the boy amused her. “Who are you anyway? I’ve never seen you in the Great Hall or just wandering around”

“I’m Myrtle, or to most of this god awful school Moaning Myrtle.” The sour face returned but her anger this time directed towards the innocent wizard before her, “The only visitors I get are little bellends of this school who just wanna pick on me…throwing books…calling me names” Before Seamus could even think of a reply a horrid cry escaped the ghost as they floated across the room, diving straight into a stall with the door slamming shut behind her.

“Maybe if you go out a little more you’d meet some students that aren’t little bellends as you so beautifully said'' The boy was cold in the monotone way in which he spoke but took a wander closer to the stall where he could hear the muffled crying from the ghost, “Kids are mean…they always will be. You just gotta ignore them, ennit”

A high-pitched squeal shot through the bathroom that made Seamus clamp his hands over his ears while he contemplated the time he had spent with his girl. Moaning Myrtle exited the bathroom stall, floating in front of the boy once again getting right on his face. “Your all the same. Selfish, spoiled and mean, why can no one in this school just like me?” The amount that was wrong with this girl would make a list longer than the boy's arm, the pain from his hand and the irritating introduction of the ghost only made him more annoyed. Something he didn’t want.

Without a second thought, Seamus walked out leaving the wailing woman behind in her hovel. Dean found him later on, sitting at the edge of a field looking into the mysterious forbidden forest. His angsty mood was clearly very radiant as Dean was careful not to mention his disappearance or anything really school related. Instead, idle gossip was how the time passed, Dean is surprisingly well-liked in the school. Not surprisingly at all though, he is fairly quiet and persistently kind, because of these brilliant traits he is also great to vent to. He gets all the gossip from many of the upper years of the school and shares them with Seamus, now he doesn’t share what he hears but he isn’t as kind. Thankfully it stays between them.

When it finally got dark Seamus was in a much better mood, laughing uncontrollably as they hiked back up to the castle. The hall looked much spookier for the feast with candles filling the beautiful night sky, the bats were more active now that it was night so they flew gracefully across the hall and sometimes out the window. Some children wore costumes while others just embraced the Halloween spirit while waiting for the food. Thankfully Halloween was not a holiday that needed a lengthy speech on the importance of some good morals like Christmas or Easter. Instead, Dumbledore said ‘Happy Halloween’ then the food appeared. Like all food that is produced on the grounds of Hogwarts, it was spectacular and limitless.

“Where’d you wander off two? The Professor couldn’t find you after the assault on me got you kicked out” Ronald's sour face was neutralised by his older brothers laughing from a few people away stretching to high-five the proud Gryffindor Second-year.

“I decided staring at an oak door was beneath me so I went to see if the forbidden forest was truly more haunted today than any other day. In case you were wondering it was not” Seamus smirked at his now red-faced friend while ‘the boy who lived’ sat beside him giggling. Hermione was amused but not happy about Seamus abandoning class, the girl never said it out loud but she was a little predictable.

“You only missed like seven more deafening screams before the movie ended” Neville added while loading up his plate with as much stuffing as could balance.

“Documentary” Hermione quickly corrected before disappearing back into another conversation with the girls, that's when Neville whispered something to Dean which made them both look around the hall. Down the table and even to the other house tables. His friend's eyes caught Seamus and his confused face, the glance bounced to Ronald, then to the twins and then to the end of the table with the first-years. It didn’t take long for the few brain cells he had to add it all up.

Harry left early looking a little sick, probably eaten too much like Neville, however, he just spent his time looking and the food complaining about how stuffed he felt. Ron ate more than both of them but was scoffing different desserts down his throat. Hermione’s face while watching him channelled all the disgust and hidden rage everyone at that table felt towards him and he didn’t even notice it. Ron’s face when the food disappeared was honestly heartbreaking, making the laughter a lot louder than it needed to be. When the students were retiring back to their dorms a pile-up seemed to be increasing on the second floor, screams of horror and gasps of disgust made Seamus halt for a moment. Dean moved in front of him but didn’t move onwards until his hand was on his friend's shoulder. Finally, they managed to push to where all the hassle was.

Harry Potter stood before a wall, written across in what looked like blood was the statement ‘The chamber of secrets has been opened, Enemies of the heir, beware’. Seamus retched at the sight, an inhumane noise he could hardly recognise which made even Dean turn to check on him. The boy's face was pale and his eyes glossy, a small tear hanging onto his bottom line of eyelashes. Mrs Norris was not a pleasant cat, barely tolerable at best but to see the creature hang lifeless from a torch bracket made Seamus feel as if he was going to be sick. The Professors were quick to see what all the fuss was about, attempting to block it with her body and draping cloak, Professor McGonagall held up her arms and demanded the children go straight to their dorms. Amidst that chaos, a platinum blonde freak stood tall and yelled behind the safety of his two bodyguards “Enemies of the heir, beware! You’ll be next, Mudbloods!”.

Dean froze up, all muscles turned into stone with his feet stuck stubbornly on the floor. Other students began to circulate around them, knocking their shoulders occasionally but Seamus’s only focus was his friend. The boy's breathing was rapid and uneasy, enough to distract from the fear in his eyes when finally making eye contact with his friend. Seamus put on a smile, a blissful and joyous grin and a comforting squeeze on his shoulder.

“Come on, let’s get out of here”

Instead of following the rest of the students up, Seamus led his friend downstairs to the first floor however Dean didn’t seem to notice at all. Before they escaped the crowds Dean kept a half smile on his face with his breathing subtle enough to make the illusion that he was fine and happy when his life was being so blatantly threatened by one of his own peers. Since everyone was so focused on the atrocious threat, no teachers were free to mind the halls. They swiftly made their way to the first floor, Seamus' grip on his friend's shoulder getting less harsh the further away from people they got.

“Dean?...” A soft and harmless tone, barely a whisper but clear enough to slice through the still silence of the hall. And again he called, “Dean'' A little firmer this time but it seemed his breaths breathing remained rapid, so much so the boy began acting as if the entire room was without oxygen. The suffocating boy fell back into one of the giant tapestries that hung from the ceiling. Seamus dropped to his knees beside him, his hands gripping his friend’s forearms a little too tight, “Hey hey hey, it’s okay. No one liked that cat, could’ve been a multitude of motives''

A small gasp of laughter escaped Dean, from there he began to breathe deeper until finally he was back to breathing normally. Seamus’s hand dropped to the floor, Dean had tears falling down his cheek and his hand clutching the collar of his shirt while the other rested on his knee. “It was dead”

“Petrified”

“What?”

“Petrified, it’s like a coma but you look and seem frozen. That cat should be fine, I’m sure this is just a stupid prank okay? That was probably just red paint and a statue curse.”

“But what if it wasn’t”

“If it wasn’t then the heir of Slytherin will have to go through me, okay?”

Dean looked questionably at him.

“You don’t think I could take him?”

All Dean could do was laugh and that's when his friend shot up, holding out his wand fearlessly.

“Never doubt my skills, Mr Thomas. I am a fine dueller and a scrappy fighter, it’ll take more than a lousy threat to frighten me…or you” Seamus looked down to his friend then pulled him, reluctantly to his feet, keeping their hands together as he showed him around the room.

“Where are we?” Dean looked around, it wasn’t a room but the doors on both ends of the corridor were now closed.

“Tapestry corridor, by the Viaduct entrance. Though you might appreciate a little art, ignore the painting though. Most of em are moody, I dunno why they put portraits everywhere. No one needs to hear the obsessive whining of old people.” Seamus looked a man dead in the eye while saying that, the portrait gasped horrifically and turned his back to the second-year which he smirked to. A specific tapestry caught the young Irish boy's eye, a beautiful piece of farmland including a spectacular farmhouse off into the distance slightly.

“It’s stunning” Dean stood beside him, leaning towards the fabric to get a closer look at the intricate design.

“It…It looks like home. Only thing in this bloody school that reminds me of it.”

They stood in that corridor until a Professor walked and noticed them. It was a new day when the boys were walked to their dorm by a very tired and grumpy Professor Snape. The sun was not yet out but soon, the sky was beginning to glow and the moon was beginning to fall fairly low. It was likely both boys would not see the sun until midday, so they enjoyed the moonlight before knocking out cold in their beds. Not as cold as Mrs Norris it seems.

Chapter Text

Sunday, 1st November 1992

Dean didn’t realise how long he’d slept until he was shaken awake by Seamus, just before lunch. It seemed everyone else was up and out while the boy was still recovering from spending half the night exploring tapestries with his friend. Harry wasn’t there when he woke, Seamus insisted that the golden trio had not been seen since the incident. It did not take long at all for Dean to throw on some slippers and join his friend in the Great Hall as he was in his pyjamas.

“Can’t believe you slept for so long. We were all getting a bit worried, you’re normally one of the first up” Seamus didn’t sound too worried, in fact, he just sounded his normal cheery self galloping down the halls with a cheeky grin on his face.

“Yeah well if you were that worried you should’ve just woken me up, I wouldn’t have minded” Dean walked solemnly down the hall, an unreadable face. That is what he thought anyway but the child couldn’t help but notice how his friend kept a watchful eye out for him.

The hall was timid and the tension in the air was thick enough to be cut with a knife. Dean looked around the room to see children whispering and gossip, creating a divide between the room that the teachers attempted to be blind to. At the Gryffindor table, Harry Potter sat quite glumly with Hermione and Ron beside him. The girl was attempting to convince Harry that only a few people in the Hall actually believe it was him who petrified the beloved cat. Dean looked around to see a bunch of students gawking at the boy fearfully, no part of him believed Harry deserved any of this, he was just cursed with a string of awful bad luck. Ronald was sympathetic but taking a more carefree approach.

“Look, no one thinks it's really okay? Probably just some idiot who thought it would be funny. That stupid Malfoy brat seemed happy enough with the commotion”

Seamus looked a little irritated but staked his plate high with food, it was the timid Neville who spoke up, “Can’t blame people for feeling uneasy though, not when some psycho is running around targeting anyone but purebloods.”

Dean took a couple of things from the table, he was more interested in the stares towards their little group. Stares that burned holed at the back of their heads. It seemed to really only be affecting Harry, Neville and Dean. Dean looked to his friend, the boy's hand was still, his eyes clear and from what could be seen his mind was sound. The Londoner could hardly say the same, in fact, he would be consumed in terror, thinking behind every corner and hidden within every shadow was magic, with its only intent to paralyse Dean. To kill him. The boy was pulled from his own horrendous thoughts by Roanlds stupidity once again.

“It was a stupid cat. The Chamber has never been found either. The best bet is that it was a prick like Malfoy just trying to be funny” The redhead tried to make a point trying to chew the entire sausage he’d managed to shove in his mouth.

“I don’t think you are one to judge, Weasley. You and your lot will be spared when the heir comes to take us all. Sacred 28 and all that” Seamus spat like poison across the table at the redhead, a calm demeanour but a violent glare. Seems to have shut Ronald up quickly enough, Dean shared a look with the Irish boy soon after. A look of gratitude.

Lunch was brisk and awkward, tensions in the hall calmed somewhat when Harry left. It was obvious who the suspect in this awful crime was, it made Dean’s heart sink. The Potter boy was kind, brave and deserving of at least some respect but many people were quick to turn on him. Most of Gryffindor were pretty chill with him, house loyalty and all that. The rest of the day Dean and Seamus spent outside. Seamus said it was to explore nature and enjoy the outdoors but Dean reckoned it was so the numbing colds would distract from the fear. In his mind he hated how much it affected it, he wished he could ignore it like Seamus. Push it to the back of his head and put a smile on his face, but genuinely. The forbidden forest was eventually where they ended up, at first they just stood at the edge looking into the darkness.

“I mean…what's a little wander gonna do?”

“Depends what else is wandering through here” Dean's caution was due to the numerous tales told by both professors and older years, deep down he believed most of them were lies or very dramatically told stories. The wizarding world is a strange and unpredictable place, Dean learnt this during his first few days in this school and even more than a year in he still feels very new and still clueless to this world.

Seamus looked back at his friend with a devilish grin, “Well if you’re scared then you can just stay here, I’ll let you know what’s it’s like” The child was walking back past the first row of trees, their focus so adamant on each other that neither of them noticed the half-giant heading towards them with much urgency.

“Oi! What you two doing over here? The forbidden forest is still...forbidden” Hagrid stomped over to them, a face of anger but eyes of concern. Very conflicted for the children who’d now run together, Seamus with a face of disappointment while Dean was more scared of the consequences. “Go on. In the castle, both of you. I don’t wanna see you loitering around the edge of this forest again, you understand? It can be a dangerous place for two baby wizards''

The man waited until both of them nodded and scurried all the way to the castle before continuing whatever it was he was doing before the two second-years distracted him. The two of them went straight inside, the Irish lad giggling to himself while Dean hovered waiting for his hysterics to calm. They continued through the castle with Seamus rambling on about the various creatures that could be in the forest while Dean questioned the wizarding world. The two of them went on about these creatures and movies that correlate with them until everyone else was tucked into bed, they sat on the window sill noticing their legs now overlapped slightly. It would only be a few more years that they were able to sit together like that beside the window.

“So out of all the things we’ve talked about. Why are you so frightened of banshees?”

“When I was really young I remember this woman, long dark hair and skin a dull grey. She stood over me with a sour face, didn’t take long for her wailing to begin. Screaming, crying, whatever it was. Felt like me brain was melting,-”

“You certainly, act like it melted your brain”

…anyway, I’m pretty sure I was like four or five. I’m not sure what came of it. Just that I was left crying in the dark for the rest of the night.”

“You were so young though. Are you certain it was real?”

“Does it really matter? I believe it is real and it feels real. They are predominantly found in Ireland and I heard the tales of them only a few weeks later”

“Christ…Well I don’t reckon we’ll see any wandering around Scotland anytime soon. You’ll be safe here in Hogwarts” Dean smiled softly at his friend, resting his hand on his calf then squeezing it a little. Seamus tore his gaze from the infinite darkness that lay beyond then smiled back at his friend too. Ronald mumbled a few things, when Dean went to look at him the ginger boy had his blanket curled all the way up to his cheeks. Looking back to Seamus he saw the goosebumps all up and down his limbs. Dean went over to the stove located in the centre of the room, the fire was now just a collection of embers from some dead wood. The boy threw quite a large piece into the fire, enough to heat up the room until the boys were in a deep enough sleep to not notice. The two of them whispered on the windowsill until the fire once again died, then they moved onto Dean’s bed where they talked. Dean drifted at some point, Seamus managed to throw the blanket over him and close his curtains when he retired back to his own bed.

Monday, 2nd November 1992

Dean, as per usual, was the first person up. At six O clock, the boy grabbed his sketch pad and a pencil then snuck out. Ensuring any sound he made was delicate and necessary. Ronald could sleep through anything but Harry woke considerably more easily. The halls were usually dead this early in the morning, still pitch black and with nothing but the faint singing of birds to accompany you. Usually the boy would attempt to stay inside, explore the castle until he found an interesting enough reference but this morning he went outside. The faint yelling of quidditch players were carried across the surrounding fields. Dean spent long enough watching the players, he was wary how often he drew people as sometimes it felt strange. Like an invasion of their privacy. Instead the wizard walked around the school until he found the grounds keeper's hut down the hill, bordering the forbidden forest. About halfway down the hill, the child plopped himself down on the damp grass ensuring the sketchpad didn’t touch the wet ground.

It didn’t take long for his pencil to start moving, since he was fairly far away it gave him more freedom but also enough just to draw the structure. That morning he just drew a simple outline, adding various angles and perspectives. Since it was so early he didn’t expect for the door to creak open, when it did a Neapolitan mastiff calmly strolled out with the large groundskeeper following after. It took all of twenty seconds for the man to see the boy, wearing his blue Pyjamas on the cold wet grass looking at him like a deer in headlight. The dog was intrigued and it seemed Hagrid was too.

“You alright there lad? Not many second years wanting to get outta bed before eight.” The man looked as if he was arguing with himself before dropping to the ground beside the child, looking over at his sketchbook rather than at his dog who was begging for attention.

“I’m a morning person. I didn’t know you had a dog, what’s his name?” Dean began to pet the dog who’d happily spread himself beside the child, unbothered by the cold.

“Fang. Those are some lovely drawings, I can’t do that you see, can barely hold a pen right…That’s some talent you got there” The man was continuing to look over the page open and then over to his hut.

“Thank you, I would’ve asked of course but I didn’t think you’d be awake this early and I-” Dean rushed, panicked by the intimidating individual beside him. One of the most trusted Hogwarts staff members.

“No no, feel free to draw it! In fact you should move closer, really get those details in. I can’t imagine how talented you’ll get before your third year” The man smiled down at the student, his eyes filled with an excitement and glee that almost reminded him of Seamus.

“Next year? Any particular reason for choosing that year?” Dean's confused little face was bouncing between the panting dog and the groundskeeper as he spoke softly in the early hours that morning.

“Well you’ll be choosing your new subjects. I’m sure you're getting bored of drawing people and buildings, in care of magical creatures you're introduced to a range of new amazing creatures. On top of the fact it’s an amazing class, you’ll be able to draw some new and interesting things, muggle animals can be a little more tame while magical creatures are more wondrous and weird. Actually Ancient runes might also be right up your street, I don’t know much about it but it sounds like it might be of interest.” The man's face lit up more so than it was before thinking about the various options, Dean sat cluelessly unsure of what he was on about.

“Ancient runes? Hold on, do we choose these classes this year?” The boy’s newfound curiosity left him neglecting the dog beside him who was now dozing off in the grass.

“Yeah, you’ll probably be introduced to it soon so you can have some time to make the decision. If you are interested, find Professor Bathsheda Babbling. The ancient runes instructor, her classes are usually fairly small because it’s so challenging but a student with a keen interest usually catches her attention.”

“Professor Bathsheda babbling? I’ll keep that in mind, thank you so much Mr Hagrid” Dean smiled at the man as he pushed himself off the ground in a rather slow and painful way. Fang probably felt this through the earth and also got up.

“Just Hagrid please. Mr is a little too formal for little old me” The man's laugh was rough but filled with life as he headed towards the castle, “Have a good day, Lad”

Dean felt much happier for the day after having that interaction with the man, in the first year Hagrid frightened him but having actually met him the boy's opinion had completely changed. The man was kind, gentle and chatty in almost every scenario. Harry spoke about him in very high regards also, Dean saw why.

The boy decided to stay out for a bit longer, except with the owner's permission he moved closer, turning the page to fill it with the little details of the incredible hut. It had such a rustic and whimsical vibe to it, something he would never have been able to see in London. The boy was about halfway through drawing the steps and door to the hut, a thick blanket was thrown over the boy causing him to drag the fleece down onto his lap as Seamus dumped himself down beside his friend.

“Took me a while this time. It’s freezing out here, can't you wait until summer to be doing all this?” The boy pouted but pulled at the blanket so his friend would move it.

Dean pulled it over himself then also stretched it across to Seamus who was happy to cuddle into the warmth. “We are choosing new subjects this year, didn’t think it would be this soon”

“What! How the bloody hell did you find out? More importantly, how many subjects? I barely like the ones we do now. My eyebrows will never be the same thanks to potions.” Seamus brought his hands up to stroke his eyebrows then threw them down onto his lap.

“I’m not sure how many and to be fair, Professor Snape explains how to do it very slowly and with extremely detailed instructions paired with it. I reckon you're just a little cursed. I like your eyebrows now, I think it added a lot of edge and depth to your look” Dean’s smile curled into a little smirk as he closed his sketchbook. His friend elbowed him while rolling his eyes but smiling also. It was as if Seamus couldn’t help but smile, Dean had rarely seen a frown on his face.

“What did he suggest then? Care of magical creatures?” The young lad raised an eyebrow then looked quite happily at the hut.

“Well…yeah but also Ancient Runes which sounds quite cool. I’m sure we’ll get the announcement soon” Dean pulled the blanket over himself a little more then looked to Seamus who was struggling to keep his eyes open. “Come on. If we go back, you’ll be able to get another hour of sleep if your lucky.”

The Londoner struggled up off the damp slippery grass then held a hand out to his friend who was tightly hugging himself with a blanket, on the way up he was close to slipping backwards. They managed to trudge up to the castle without falling over but with many close calls.

~~~~~~~~~~

The morning was fairly good, Dean was in a very productive mood and decided to detail the new additions to his sketchbook. Seamus gave him some very blunt pointers which he managed to consider without offence. The whispering about the recent incident had not slowed or stopped but both Seamus and Dean seemed to have some silent agreement to just ignore it. Pretend even if it was just for a day that nothing was wrong, Dean was more than happy to and with Seamus by his side it was easy to. The incident was just hushed gossip until History. Seamus and Dean were sharing a desk behind Hermione and Lavender when Hermione began to address Professor Binns directly about the topic.

“Sir. Is the Chamber of Secrets real? There have been numerous rumours and tales over the years but I thought if anyone at school would be able to tell us anything concrete it would be you” Dean’s face dropped a little at Hermione’s request to the teacher, especially after he’d agreed to do it.

“I’m sure you are all aware that this school was founded by four of the most powerful witches and wizards of their time. Helga Hufflepuff, Rowena Ravenclaw, Godric Gryffindor and Salazar Slytherin. Well, Salazar had different views than the others causing a divide and much conflict between him. He believed muggle-born students should not be accepted into the school whereas the other three disagreed. Eventually, he left the school and rumours began to circulate that he had created a secret chamber that could only be opened by his heir. Within the chamber is some sort of monster that can be controlled and weaponized by said heir, so that the school could be purged of muggle-borns. However, I must reiterate that the majority of what I have just relayed are various myths. The chamber of secrets is not real, many have searched and scoured through the castle and nothing was recovered. Now am I able to continue with my lesson without another interruption?” This was directed quite plainly at Hermione who sheepishly put her hand down and turned away as an attempt to hide her rosy cheeks.

Dean felt no comfort from the teacher ensuring that it was all fake, it was a target straight for him and attention from the whole school directly to his year. His house even. The boy he shared a dorm with. Seamus probably saw through the smile he’d put on after that when Neville began joking about going back to the boring lesson. The boys laughed while Hermione huffed at them, Dean was quietly smiling attempting to keep up with the teacher over their constant chatting.

Immediately after that lesson, Dean grabbed his belongings and stormed down the corridor, not waiting for his friends at all. The boy went, strangely enough, to the owlery. It was empty when he arrived, bare of any students but owls inhabited all the perks. Various sizes and breeds flew across the walls all the way up the tower while others were in and out.

The boy sat on the edge of the large open window, his legs dangling from the tower, swinging in the violent winds that whipped around the sky. The owls took no notice, some flew too close to comfort past him while others hooted quite aggressively at him. A long-eared owl flew right beside him, a beautiful dark coat of feathers and a hoot Dean had heard too often before. Orla, Seamus’s loyal companion, was hoping towards him gesturing for some attention that Dean was happy to give. With his newfound company, it didn’t take long for his mood to lift. The owl was not too pleased to be abandoned so soon by her friend but he wanted to see Seamus and the boy did not particularly wish to be alone. Not after recent events. Finding Seamus was not difficult as the boy was always outside, it was never a question. Whenever the two of them parted, it wasn’t difficult to locate one another.

Seamus was laying on the grass in the courtyard while Neville and Theodore were sitting on the wall close by. It seemed the two on the wall were nervously discussing something while Seamus was relaxing on the grass, piping up for a few comments once and a while. Dean walked over to the group only to be greeted by three concerned looks, the child returned a smile to his friends and then sat on the grass to the side of his friend.

“What’s up?” Dean directed it over to the two on the wall, noticing Seamus’s annoyingly concerned looks.

“Well…” Neville looked to Seamus then to Theodore, clearly very hesitant to join Dean in the conversation.

“It’s about the whole ‘enemies of the heir beware’ charade. It’s got a lot of people…uneasy” The Slytherin spoke as barely a whisper, not enough for anyone to attempt to overhear at all.

“Oh well yeah it’ll take a while for it all to blow over, won’t it? I must admit, it’s not easy to be threatened in one of the supposed safest places in the wizarding world.” Dean looked to his friends but their faces were filled with worry, fear even. Especially Theo.

“The muggle-born in Slytherin are being targeted already, it’s not a matter of blowing over now. This whole blood superiority divide is the STUPIDEST thing I’ve ever heard” Seamus was happy to fill Dean in with more confidence than the other two, probably a little too much for the last sentence which many people turned to give strange looks to him.

“Targeted? In what way?” Dean didn’t pay too much attention to the gawkers and instead his focus remained on the Slytherin who was now biting his lower lip nervously.

“Well from what I’ve seen it’s little things. People moving away from them, silly little pranks and a few whispered slurs. Draco is one of the only people outwardly offending all the muggle-born to the point all of us who don’t wanna be involved are wondering if he’s the heir.”

“It’s not a bad theory to be honest” Dean looked to Seamus who nodded in agreement but Neville interjected.

“The Malfoy and Black family tree is written in detail dating hundreds of years back and they are very proud wizards. If they were in any relation to Salazar Slytherin then we would be reminded each and every year at the sorting.” Neville raised one of the best points which made all the other boys laugh and nod.

The subject from then on was cautiously avoided, the boys chilled out but eventually returned inside when the rain started to pour a little too hard. Theo chilled with them for a bit but was pulled away by some of his other friends when they passed all excited. The three Gryffindors went back to their dorm, Dean sat by the window to enjoy watching the rain as it hammered down on the window. In the background, he could hear Seamus and Neville talk about creatures in the forbidden forest. Shay even added a creature highlighted by Dean during their earlier discussion which made him smile to himself. Poor Neville asked about Banshees which sent Seamus into a rage-fueled tangent. Luckily Tea wasn’t too long after, as soon as they hit the table the subject of that differed to the sudden realisation of subject choices for year three.

“We heard that McGonagall was gonna introduce it to us today, you know, do the whole meeting part during or after dinner.” Lavender was keen on the subject, telling Seamus as soon as he was in earshot of it.

“Oh yeah? Who’d you hear that from?” The boy was fairly wary of rumours now, or perhaps just wanted to push the girls' buttons. She seemed fairly unphased by it.

“Susan and Megan. They had transfiguration last and apparently, Professor McGonagall hinted at it. I can’t wait! What are you guys picking?” The girl's ecstatic behaviour did not go unnoticed by the surrounding students. The loud squawking voice was definitely hard to ignore but her cheer was nothing short of contagious. Dean smiled and sat beside his moody friend, hoping this was not just another fruitless gossip.

Dumbledore was, as usual, not present in the hall; instead it was Professor McGonagall reading out a few boring announcements. At least with her reading it, the talks were short and straight to the point. “Just one more thing before we can all enjoy dinner. Can all the year 2 students stay behind after tea for some information regarding next year's additional lessons. Thank you all for listening to me so patiently, enjoy your meal”

Seamus’s face lit up and the two boys turned to each other with wide smiles, buzzing about the news. The hall was much louder than usual, the second years were pestering the other students about the lessons only to hear that the best was care for magical creatures. It wasn’t too hard and occasionally they would be able to meet some incredible creatures. Luna Lovegood stopped to say hello on her way out, Ginny gave her a funny look but soon after she saw Dean looking she stopped. Few by few the other years began to leave until there were just four empty tables, the second years and the deputy head. With just a wave of her hand the booklets began to be handed out to each student in the hall. Each subject was described, what they would study, what the exam would be like and how this could help them in the future. Dean flicked through the pages as the Professor began her speech.

“For the remainder of this year, I implore you to begin thinking about the different class options as you will need to pick two or three by the end of this year. The classes are Care of Magical Creatures currently taught by Professor Kettleburn, Muggle Studies with Professor Charity Burbage, Divination taught by Professor Trelawney, Ancient Runes with Professor Bathsheba Babbling and finally Arithmancy taught by Professor Vector. We encourage students to choose three to have a go at but normally students drop to two in the third or fourth year. Now each and every one of you needs to think very carefully about what you are choosing. I don’t want to see you just going along with your mates.”

The woman let the children flick through the pages for a minute or two before continuing, “You have until June to let me know your choices. Any student who has not told me by then will be either chased down or given lessons at random. That’s all for now, remember curfew is at 9 PM so ensure you are in your common rooms by then. Goodnight” She wasted no time escaping the halls, the Great Hall remained quiet enough for the students to hear the Professor's heels slam against the stone floors until she was a good way away. When Dean turned back to his best friend he was looking down at the booklet, the page opened to the divination bit.

“You interested in discovering the future?”

“Nah, me ma says the only person who knows what's in store for us is God. I reckon it would be an easy course though. Ramble about death and pain, someone somewhere will relate”

“What a Positive mindset you have there. I was considering it too, I’ve heard of fortune tellers with tarot cards and all that. When we went to the beach, there were loads.”

“I’m sure most of them were bull.”

“I was told I would be blinded to love that stares right at me. So…yeah probably just lies…still, I’d like to think there are some people out there with the ability to decipher the future.”

“Oh of course but the true cases are rare but extraordinary. I haven’t heard too many prophecies to be fair.”

“Neither, I reckon it could be interesting..”

The second-year students began to disappear in groups at a time, leaving with little chatter and eyes buried in the booklets. Seamus and Dean left with most of the other Gryffindors but of course, the group couldn’t go anywhere without Draco calling out for Harry. Usually to start a fight. “Potter Potter Potter. I imagine you won’t be taking Arithmancy, practically muggle-born, you”

Harry went to turn but Ronald pushed his shoulder so he wouldn’t be able to. Dean intertwined his arm around Seamus’s to keep him moving too. The group could hear Draco’s irritating calls from far away, Ronald’s face was burning red by the time they reached the common room. It took him a half hour to stop complaining about it, Seamus was happy to join in but Dean found himself a little desk beside the bookshelves so he could focus on his choices. The girls and boys of the second year were all curled up by the fire, taking up all the seats and room on the floor. Dean joined them eventually, sitting in front of Seamus who took an end seat on the sofa. Hermione was beside him scratching away with a pencil on the booklet, Dean took the chance to lean over and have a look at what she was doing. Turns out the girl was annotating the pages, noting down the difficulty of the subject, how valuable it is and whether or not she was actually interested in it. The chatter between them started off with the new subjects but managed to turn into a giant winge towards all the teachers they currently get taught by. McGonagall was usually great but extremely strict. Snape was awful, rude and mean. Hates children for no reason and it sounds as if he was only kind to Draco and Dean. The boy chose to stay quiet for that one but Seamus was filling them all into Snape's secret kind side.

It took a while for everyone to begin filling out, Ronald, Hermione and Harry were the first to leave. All heading out of the common room only a few minutes before curfew. Lavender and Parvati took a while to leave, eventually, they went up to their dorm leaving Seamus, Neville and Dean. The boy was still on the floor while his friends occupied the seats.

“I received a letter from my Uncle a few days ago, insisting I take Ancient Runes. One of the hardest lessons taught at Hogwarts. Mind you I barely made it through exam season last year, how on earth do I survive an extra three subjects?” Neville looked close to tears, his voice straining a few octaves more than it was usually at.

“Two extra lessons, you can drop one next year” Seamus’s voice was bright and cheery, a strange comparison between the two. “Besides exams don’t matter until like fifth year”

Dean laughed a little at Seamus’s attempt on the bright side, “Look it’s completely your choice what lessons you choose, you're the one who’ll have to go with them. Sod your Uncle with all his stupid opinions. Which interests you the most?”

Neville smiled down at Dean then looked back at the booklet, to the choices “um…Care of Magical Creatures I think and thankfully it is one of the easiest”

Seamus laughed, punching Neville playfully on the arm “Don’t you worry your little socks, Longbottom, I reckon most the year is choosing Care of Magical Creatures. I certainly will, What about you” The child flicked Dean’s ear with a large playful smirk.

“Oi! I was thinking about it but I also wanna do a few other things” Dean threw the booklet on the coffee table and sighed loudly “Why do they all sound so fun”

“They don’t-” Seamus was quick to reply while Neville was too busy yawning.

Dean ignored the idiot behind him and looked at Neville, “Tired? You should head up mate, no need to wait for us”

It didn’t take much to convince Neville to go to bed, the pair left down in the common room watched him practically crawl up the spiral staircase wondering if he made it up to their room or just dropped in the middle. Dean pulled himself up onto the couch beside his friend, leaving no room between them. The room wasn’t completely empty, it rarely was before 12 PM. The two second years didn’t care much.

“I…it’s embarrassing” Dean took a deep breath, steading himself for what he had to confess to the boy beside him. By the time his focus returned to Seamus, he was turned to him intently listening, “That attack a few days ago, it really freaked me out. I can’t stop thinking about it to the point it’s all I see when I close my eyes. A green light and then...nothing.”

Seamus looked to his friend, Dean's dark eyes swelling up with tears close to toppling over and rolling down his cheek looking back was the pale eyes of a concerned friend, he nodded to let Dean know he was listening and to continue when he’s ready.

Dean frowned and looked to the wall opposite them, staring so intensely, hoping the tears wouldn’t fall so his pride could stay intact. “I do-don’t know what to do. I can’t ignore it, every time I try it just comes flooding back twice as harshly. Every corner I turn in the halls I fear something… someones lurking round the bend”

Seamus grabbed his friend's shoulder, turning completely to face him with his knees resting on Dean's thigh. For a little while, it looked as if he was ready to say something but couldn’t find the words. “Hogwarts being one of the safest places in the wizarding world is beginning to feel like a joke, isn’t it…I’m here, okay? I’m gonna always be here, I always am. No one can get you, not when you're with me.”

A couple of tears began to roll down Dean’s cheek, he was quick to wipe them away with his sleeves, “I don’t want you to feel like you're babysitting me, I don’t wanna be a burden to you. It’s stupid. It was just a stupid cat, I’m just being dra-”

“If you say dramatic I will punch your lights out, you hear me? You're not a burden and I wouldn’t be babysitting you, we’re together every day. It would just be a lot more together. Give it a week and I’ll annoy you into forgetting all of it and exhaust you into perfect sleep” Seamus raised his eyebrow and flashed his friend a cheeky smirk, earning him a smile in return and even a chuckle. “Okay? Just you wait, give it a few weeks and we’ll have that stupid cat wandering the halls again. Meowing like she owns the world.”

Dean laughed a little more and put his hand on Seamus’s, squeezing it as it rested on his shoulder, “Thank you” For a while they sat, holding hands while Dean slowly drifted into a little sleep. It didn’t take long for his eyes to begin flickering and his limbs twitching. Seamus shook him lightly, only for his eyes to snap at him alarmed.

“Let’s go to bed, yeah?” Before the Londoner could respond he was being dragged up and pulled up the stairs. Getting ready for bed was a lot of effort and much more tiring than it usually was. Every part of his body just wanted to collapse on his bed and cuddle his blankets. Dean climbed into his bed, pulling his flimsy curtains, watching as Seamus climbed into his own bed. A little part of him wanted to ask if he wanted to sleep over but the other part of him was scared he would think of Dean as cowardly. A twelve-year-old boy who can’t sleep alone without dreaming of being murdered in the school he attended.

When he woke up in the night, sweaty and heart beating harsh as if it break his ribs, Rush meowed loudly. Like an alarm, until Dean gave her the attention she craved. The boy was so tired and out of it that he didn’t realise someone else was up until a hand poked through the curtain with a glass of water. “Loud little bugger isn’t she?”

Seamus had a large Cheshire smile as Dean accepted the cup, the boy climbed into the bed making himself at home under the covers. “I swear they gave me the worst mattress” The excuse was flimsy, even he knew that but instead of pointing it out he smiled and put the glass on the side.

“Blatant discrimination, Shay. You should file a complaint” Rush made himself comfortable between the two boys before Seamus replied.

“I might just do that”

The next time he woke, Seamus was sleeping soundly with an arm stretched around Dean's cat. Falling back to sleep wasn’t an issue.

Chapter Text

Wednesday, 11th November 1992

It was the week following the subject consultation after tea, Dean found himself wandering the dungeons of the school. It was reasonably late so he need not worry about wandering students, he wished only to find inspiration. Anytime the boy did see someone, he would politely smile then move on but after spotting a beautiful piece of armoury the boy stopped. Most armours in the castle was plain, adequate but plain, however, this had beautiful detail carved into it.

“Many pieces like that are scattered across the dungeons, I’m not sure why they keep the boring ones upstairs” Thoedore appeared behind Dean, the boy's voice making him jump back but smile.

“Hidden jewels beneath the castle? Sounds almost like a fairy tale.” Dean looked around the dark halls then back to his friend, as he shivered, “Is it always this cold?”

Theo nodded sadly, “Yeah but it’s usually not that bad in our common room. Always got the fires going”

“Fires? We only have one” Dean shook his head then laughed, “Guess it’s fair enough though”

“Where is Seamus? I’ve never seen one of you without the other” Theo looked around the hallway to indeed find it empty.

“He was hungry, should be back in a moment with something daft like an omelette or an ice cream” Dean laughed and turned back to the armour to attempt to capture it in his mind, to reference in a couple of his drawings.

Theo’s gaze moved to the armour also but didn’t stay there long. “It’s almost curfew, I must be getting back and so should you. Be cautious” The silence filled the halls but a set of uneven chaotic steps began to echo all across the darkened walls of the dungeon, “Goodnight, do let me know what Seamus managed to scavenge”

Dean laughed as his friend left, the boy stood in the cold dimly lit hall listening for the footsteps to edge closer but then often moving away once again until the sound was heading straight for him. Seamus appeared, holding a bowl with a spoon. The Londoner giggled in anticipation and headed closer to him, “What you got there?”

“A beautiful stew, homemade by the house elves. I felt kinda bad but they were happy enough, plus I promised a favour in return…I might need to write to your father-” Seamus smiled sheepishly then offered his spoon to his friend.

Dean took the spoon but before tasting it he spoke, “I reckon he would enjoy that very much, would probably send you two four-layered cakes along with some ‘average’ sides.” Seamus laughed while Dean took a large spoonful of what was supposed to be a simple snack, the boy moaned and nodded in delight.

Both enjoyed the enormous bowl of stew as they made their way back to the Gryffindor tower around five minutes after the curfew. They realised as long as you were half an hour after curfew, no one really cares after the first year of school. These rules did not apply to the golden trio or to Neville, the Longbottom boy was prone to being locked out.

Thursday, 12th November 1992

That day shone bright, despite being close to the wintery months however this beautiful display was a lie and the rain fell twenty minutes after. With a crushed spirit, Dean headed to Professor McGonagall’s office bright and early praying that she would be there. Dean nervously knocked on the door, gentle on the wood, barely loud enough to hear himself; the woman inside seemed to have heard him fine.

“Come in”

The boy pushed the door open, closing it as he entered the nice warm office. A large window was behind her chair, a stained glass window where she could see the beating of the rain against the glass.

“What is it I can do for you this morning, Thomas? Is this about the subject choices? Hagrid did inform me that he felt the description of ancient runes he gave you was quite…uninspiring”

Dean took a seat in one of the chairs opposite hers, helping himself to the tea she had so gracefully made for him without moving a muscle. “No it’s not that, Hargid did a great job with it though. I was wondering who cleaned out and fed the owls up in the owlery?”

“Well it is often used as a punishment but the duty is one of many Hagrid is trusted with. Though he usually does it during nighttime to not disturb the owl's sleep or the student's visitation. Why is it you ask this of me? Has there been any issue?”

“Not at all Professor” Dean placed his tea into the Lily patterned saucer then moved to the edge of his seat, “The last time I visited the owlery, I was greeted with much hostility and was wondering if I could maybe feed them for a few months? Maybe the year?”

It seemed this Professor was taken aback by this, the woman remained stunned for a few moments before grabbing a spare piece of parchment, “Right…With nothing in return” When Dean nodded his head the woman continued, “Right okay, well I’ll set up a meeting between you and Hagrid. You’ll have to shadow him a couple of times, perhaps during the weekend? But if Hagrid is happy to do it, I would also be happy too. I’ll continue to use it as a punishment to attempt to lower the responsibility and if at any point you wish to quit just inform me or Hagrid and we will be happy to half your services at once.”

Dean grinned ear to ear, practically hopping on the edge of his seat in excitement, “Thank you so much, Professor! I won’t disappoint”

“Ten points for Gryffindor will be rewarded when you begin these responsibilities. For taking initiative and for your work ethic Dean.” The Professor waited for the boy to finish his tea to continue, “So since you're here, what did you think of Ancient Runes? It’s a very suitable choice for you I believe”

“I’ve been considering it, the only thing I’m concerned with is how difficult it is. Learning a new language is generally difficult but an Ancient Magical one depicted of Runes-” Dean fidgeted in his seat, placing the tea down and leaned back into his chair.

“It is one of the more challenging lessons we offer here at Hogwarts but I wholeheartedly believe you would be able to accomplish this class to the best of your ability. Ancient Runes is an impressive OWL’s subject to take, it will really make you stand out as well. You have a while to think about it, so I suggest you do. I’ll probably be able to inform you during breakfast when your meeting with Hagrid might be.”

Dean nodded and rose from his seat, “I best so get myself ready for the day then”

The Professor walked her student out and Dean hurried back to the common room, beside the large painting that acted like a door into the Gryffindor common room was Seamus leaning on the stone brick talking peacefully with one of the figures in a far painting. When he heard his friend coming the boy dropped the conversation and began to head over to him, “Was she there?”

“Yeah, course. I wouldn’t be surprised if she slept there” Dean laughed and stated the password, making the painting's frame swing open for them to walk right through and up to their dorm.

“And?” Seamus was eager to hear the rest, following his friend closely.

“I have to speak to Hagrid and if he agrees, he’ll have to show me how to do it but I think he’ll be fine with it” Dean smiled back at Shay while pushing open their dorm door. The boys waited till they were in Seamus’s bed before continuing.

“You’ll have to bring treats a few times, Bride them into liking you.”

“No need to bribe them, They’ll warm up to me”

“Is that all? You were gone for ages” Seamus laid comfortably across his bed, leaning his head on the headboard.

“Well, she started to go on about me taking Ancient Runes. Are you considering it?” Dean was crossed leg, right beside his friend rocking back and forth a little as they talked.

“Nah, already speak two languages I don’t need to learn a third. '' Seamus scrunched up his nose and turned to look at the ceiling, his arms crossed beneath his head. “I think we are all thinking about doing Care of Magical Creatures. You’d like that. Probably make friends with all the dark creatures while I end up being chased through the forbidden forest.” The boy smiled, a grin that bore all his teeth, the boy turned to his friend and rolled his eyes playfully.

“Well, I do think that we should choose at least one subject, who else will force you to revise for one. You are useless, may I remind you” Dean smirked at his friend whose smile was soon fading.

“Gee, thanks mate. I’ll be sure to remember that, shall I?” The boy rolled his eyes with a pout but Dean did not fret, his mood was sure to improve by breakfast.

~~~~~~~~~~

Breakfast was its usual chaotic mess of a meal, everyone moving at different paces while clashes were more frequent than ever. Seamus was a fan of morning meals, Dean wasn’t so much. He preferred a warm, whole-hearted meal at the end of the day but Seamus likes the disarray of breakfast. Ron and Harry stayed in the dorm while the other three boys went on to the Great Hall, it seemed Hermione did not wish to wait for her friends as she was already sitting at the table when they arrived. The Professor's table was fairly empty and the students' ones were also fairly bare.

Neville sat beside Hermione, leaning over to peak at the book she lay open on the table. Dean and Seamus sat beside each other, sitting close and whispering little jokes between themselves. They watched as their ginger roommate wandered in, hair all messed up and eyes barely open with his feet dragging across the floor. Harold stood a few paces in front of his friend, chirpy and with a large smile on his face.

Ginny laughed at her brother as soon as she saw the state he was in, which only worsened his mood. Just as he was about to explode at his sister or his friends, Professor McGonagall appeared behind him with a calm smile, “Good morning, Mr Weasley”

Ron's face was a bold red when he finally sat at the table, the glare was intense but luckily it was only directed to his little sister who was still giggling over her bowl of cereal. The Professor continued to walk down until she stood between Dean and Seamus, by then they were both standing and waiting for her to fill them in. “Hagrid is happy to speak to you after your lessons today down at his hut, I am in full support of whatever he wishes to do'' The woman smiled down at the very happy wizards then headed back to the teacher's table.

The boys quickly took a seat brushing off all the questions or looks their friends had. “You really wanna go through with it then?”

Dean nodded to his friend with a small but gentle smile, “Yeah, I at least want to do it for this year. I reckon it could be really fun, bribing all the owls into loving me plus it could be used as evidence of responsibility and organisation for resumes or uni applications”

“Uni?” Seamus furrowed his eyebrow, looking at his friend with a cocked head but taking a piece of fruit from the table, snacking on it.

“Well I’m not sure what I want to do, just in case I wanna go to Uni I’d rather sort things out over the years instead of rushing to catch up during year seven” Dean would be the first to admit he probably overthinks a lot but he heard horrifying stories from his mother about how she spent her last year of high school revising like crazy while volunteering and doing various other clubs at school just to have the best chance to go to Uni.
“Thinking way too far in the future mate. Let’s do that Transfiguration homework after this, saves us from forgetting about it and if McGonagall gives me another detention I will permanently move into the forbidden forest.” Seamus groaned loudly but became more interested in a conversation across the table about the upcoming quidditch match. One between Slytherin and Gryffindor, the teachers expected the worst when it came to these matches, especially between the rivalling teams as most games are filled with violent attacks as well as venomous words. Dean believed it was far too toxic but his father once took him to a football match and the crowds were more rowdy. But they were adults.

~~~~~~~~~~

Both the boys went about the day as usual, spending their free time together either doing homework, chatting or just chilling. Sometimes they could just sit for hours on end, Seamus was a chatty boy but Dean often spent hours listening to his useless chatter until he dozed off. His friend would notice after quite a while but continued in his talking as if still talking to Dean as he slept. The topics would hardly shift, nor his tone or rhythm but the boy kept talking. Perhaps to fill the silence or as a comfort to himself, Dean often woke to it but kept his eyes closed. This was how most of their afternoon drifted from them until Seamus shook his friend awake to go and meet Hagrid down by his hut. The boy patiently sat on the grass towards the top of the hill, Dean went down nervously but was welcomed into the gamekeeper's hut with open arms and an overly friendly dog.

“So Dean.” The man's gravely voice was fairly intimidating, he was shuffling around the main room attempting to gather everything needed for a couple of teas. It was like a mission. “Why is it you fancied to take on this job? It’s not easy you know, it can take hours and some of the owls are nasty buggers”

Dean was smiling softly down at the dog, whose head was resting on his knee. “Um..Well funny story actually, I was innocently sitting in the owlery with my sketchpad when I noticed how unwelcoming some of the owls could be and if I am to continue to pop up there for some tranquillity I need to win them over. To be the one who brings them water and cleans their area, plus hide some treats around then perhaps they will grow used to me”

Hagrid put two boiling hot teas onto the table, the boy watched the steam float up from the mugs as the man considered what he had said, “Well I suppose that’s as good as any. I can show you how to do it this Saturday after the match, I do it fairly late at night as to not wake the birds up and disrupt their schedules. However, as a student you are unable to do that so recommend around 7 at night or if you're feeling really bold half 4 in the morning. I check their water every day but you can do that whenever you want during the day, I almost check if any of them are looking sick or injured. I clean them out around once a week. Any concerns or questions just come and find me, I’d rather you come to me with suspicion then nothing at all.” The man took a break to sip on his tea then he saw the string of slobber his dog was leaving on the student's knee and demanded the dog go off to his bed, which he did without a second thought but a little bark of complaint.

The two of them chatted a while, Hagrid spoke about how he ended up working at Hogwarts as well as the other things he does, Dean didn’t realise it was down to Hagrid to do most of it. When the boy had finished his tea and exited the adorable little hut, the sun had fallen with the sky darkened. Seamus was now closer to the hut but still around halfway down the hill laid out on the grass with his limbs spread out.

“Cold out here isn’t it”

“I saw the smoke Thomas, I know how nice and toasty you were in there”

Dean held out his hand to help his friend up then threw his arm over his shoulder, rubbing the top of his arm harshly to aid warm him up. Seamus leaned into him more and like that they wandered up to the castle, Dean reiterating all Hagrid had said in much detail so his friend could feel as if he was right there next to him. The boys ended up curled up in two armchairs in the corner of the room, far away from the fireplace and those surrounding it. A few at a time students filed out of the room, Dean and Seamus had pulled over a little side table and had begun to play cards. This game lasted hours until Percy Weasley and Oliver Wood stumbled into the common room, laughing and falling a little until they saw the two second-year students huddled in the corner.

Percival straightened up immediately, Olivers stumbled over pulling his fingers through Seamus’s hair then waved until it was messy and standing up. “Come on you two, off to bed. It’s wayyy after curfew. Look at little Percival over there with his arms crossed and a frown on his little face. He’ll totally be very disappointed if you don’t scurry along”

Dean laughed and manoeuvred the boy away from his friend so they could escape the strange duo, Percy remained quiet but both the older boys stayed down watching the others climb the spiral staircase to their rooms. Dean's cat greeted them in and they snuck into Dean’s bed to talk until both of them dozed off.

Friday, 13th November 1992

The buzz about the upcoming quidditch match was overwhelming and all mention of the heir of Slytherin and all that had died down. Dean and Seamus didn’t speak about it out loud but both of them felt the nerves still, a heavy pit in their stomach that made them feel both paranoid and dramatic. The letters Dean wrote to his family had avoided this situation but he wrote often, his father sent food more often too, probably sensing something was off. Shay was enjoying the food but knew why they were there, he often asked how his friend was doing. Dean hated to vent so he’d usually just reply something vague and follow it with a brighter topic or ask his friend the same.

The day went by peacefully, Harry and the other two were really only seen during lessons and meals but other than that no one knew what they were up to. Probably for the best as others around the school were still wary of Harry, thinking he was the heir. The boy's nerves were apparent though, it may have been about the rumours circulating about him or it could have been because of this match that Draco was going to play. They would be competing head to head and it made Dean fairly concerned for his friend whereas Seamus was supportive of the defence team, convincing them Draco was the biggest threat to the game. Fred and George agreed almost immediately and with that Harry seemed to smile again. At Dinner it seemed Ronald was poking around the various papers Hermione had brought to the Great Hall, giggling to himself until someone else had to ask what it was all about. The girl had annotated all the subjects with advantages and disadvantages along with rating their difficulty out of ten. The papers were being passed around the small group of friends, the girl's cheeks went rosy but she did not protest much at all. Dean read through all the notes, the boy couldn’t be this organised especially since they were so lenient with this sorta thing. They had almost a year to choose three subjects and they could drop one at any point before owls as well as change them until the halfway point of year three. The school understood how the subjects they chose could make their school life miserable and made it accessible for the students to adjust it.

Dean sat fairly close to Hermione with only Seamus between them, so the boy grabbed a pencil from the bag he had tucked away under the table and added to the column of advantages.

‘Dean will be there’

Everyone peered over but Dean smirked and quickly ushered it over to his best friend who laughed and gave it to Hermione. Ronald was making a huge fuss but she smiled, her face was beginning to return to its normal shade as she shoved the paper deep into her pockets giving Ronald vague answers to all the ridiculous questions he had bombarded her with.

That night Seamus and Dean spent on the windowsill once more, Shay had the ginger cat curled on his lap purring softly while his friend opposing him was scribbling some homework on a piece of parchment.

“So you're gonna do it then? Ancient Runes?”

“Reckon I should at least give it a go. What’ll you put for your third? I doubt you’ll want to learn yet another language”

“Two is more than enough, trust me. I mean Arithmancy is just maths so I’ll give it a go but I’ll end up dropping it as soon as a test comes along”

Dean laughed at his friend's self-awareness before throwing the parchment on his nightstand. Both boys stayed perched beside the window until the later hours of the night, when they retired they did so in their own beds for the first time in a while admittedly. Dean’s mind was far from the nightmares that follow him through the halls, lurking in the shadows. The threat was overshadowed and now overlooked. The match was all that mattered and until an actual threat had been made, it was really just an overdramatic threat which made Dean fairly embarrassed. The boy fell asleep, his mind haunted but not to an extent that caused him to wake up during the night.

Saturday, 14th November 1992

This was by far one of the busiest days Dean had to look forward to all year. The majority of the morning and lunch hours would be spent watching the quidditch match and a large chunk of his evening would be Hagrid showing him his supplies and how to clean out the owls pen. Because of this Dean chose to start his day very early in the morning, taking time to get ready and leave the dorm by seven by which point Seamus was awake and following his friend out half asleep in his Pyjamas. The common room was where they ended up, Dean wanted to finish all his homework so that later in the day he could chill. The quidditch team had a little meeting in the main sofa arrangement which they walked in the middle of but Dean just chose the other corner. It was close to eight in the morning when the Gryffindor tower was truly awake and the quidditch team escaped to breakfast, most with their friends, however, Harry went back up to their room to wake Ronald. Not long after he left Neville came down quite alarmed and half asleep.

By a few minutes past eight, everyone was dressed almost fully awake and at the Great Hall stuffing their faces with food. Harry seemed a little nervous for the upcoming match but everyone could hear Draco's confidence, perhaps even Hagrid from his hut fairly far from the castle grounds. Everyone's blood started to boil with rage until the lovely Ginny Weasley took a seat at the table. This was the first match between Gryffindor and Slytherin, the famous rivals, she ever had the pleasure of witnessing and her brothers were more than excited.

Breakfast was only the start of the chaos, it seemed many people from both houses were overconfident and others were just plain rude. Shouting over the tables at their rivals, causing havoc in the hall. Dumbledore was at the Professor's table, a rare sight for all the students and to his right was the trusted deputy head, Professor McGonagall. The woman hated all the shouting and disorderly, the kids were pitted against each other and it wasn’t something that Hogwarts intended when they created the houses. Dumbledore seemed strangely pleased with it although he seemed like one of the men, those who think when boys act aggressive it’s just ‘boys being boys’ and when as children they acted violent against girls it was really affectionate. The man definitely saw this toxic rivalry as motivation for all the kids to exceed and to some extent it could be that but it was also producing some of the most heartbreaking environments in the school. Arguably this could’ve been the worst part of Hogwarts as well as the best. Having a House did feel a little like a family, anyone from Gryffindor would go out of their way to help Dean or Seamus when they could and the boys would do the same.

Fred and George were well known throughout the school, it wasn’t for their excellent sportsmanship during quidditch either. At some point during breakfast, they climbed onto the table and began a chant for Gryffindor, it took a while for Dumbledore to tell them to reign it in. The teams excused themselves from breakfast a little earlier than everyone else. Dean and Seamus went back to the dorms to wrap up warm before heading out to the pitch. Seamus had a giant dark hoodie on with a yellow and red beanie whereas Dean wore a huge coat and a Gryffindor-styled scarf. The two of them joined the rest of their friends out on one of the Gryffindor stands, Hagrid was on this one with Hermione and Ronald stood right at the front. Neville wasn’t in this stands so the two boys guessed he was either on the other one or with Theo. Seamus and Dean were immediately leaning over the railings, watching as the Red figures sped across the sky in blurs. Hermione was cheering the loudest out of everyone in the stands which put a large smile on Dean's face, to see her happily watching her friend. Hagrids cheers were low and loud enough to stand out from the chaos. Ginny was also fairly loud considering how timid she seemed in everyday life, the girl was red in the face from all her screaming by the time all the players were out in the sky. Seamus gave his friend an impressed look before giving the girl a thumbs up which made her smile. It was clear who Draco was when he appeared in the sky, if it wasn’t the blinding blonde hair then it was the arrogance that he radiated across the large pitch. Sadly it earned him many cheers from the Slytherin stands plotted around the pitch.

The match itself was quick to kick off, Madam Hooch pleaded to the players for a good and fair match but they all stared in anticipation. It took a while for the boy's eyes to catch up with the speed of the game but eventually, the blurred colours turned into the quidditch players. It was a rocky start for Gryffindor as the Slytherin players were swift in their movements with their new flashy brooms. Oliver was blocking as best he could but the defence was lacking a little. The seekers seemed to be in their own world, Draco following Potter all over the pitch probably to just throw insults and attempt to aggravate him.

Only a little while into the game and it became clear something was wrong, one of the bludgers was following Harry all over the pitch striking the boy as best as it could. Draco soon cleared off, making the target of this clear. Fred and George attempted to both help Harry as well as stop Slytherin scoring but both Harry and the tampered bludger were too fast. Dean’s smile dropped, he and the majority of the school except those who saw this as an opportunity for Slytherin to win. Hagrid, Hermione and Ronald were all whispering theories behind the two boys but their eyes were glued to their friend who was desperately trying to not get knocked out.

The next moments were intense, Seamus stood so close that Dean could practically feel the boy's breathing stop as his nerves began to stir. It wasn’t until the scoreboard changed and the cheering began to shake the stand that the boys truly understood what had happened during the sequence of dodges Harry had pulled off. The boy had somehow caught hold of the Golden Snitch, scoring his team one hundred and fifty points as well as stopping the game from progressing. The crowds were distracted at this point, either cheering and celebrating with their friends or withdrawing in defeat. Luckily when the hit happened Harry was hovering but a few feet above the ground, the bludger went straight for the boy's outstretched arm, Dean flinched swearing he heard the crack from where he stood. Even after the boy had tumbled from the broom, laid out holding his now broken arm, the bludger was still looking to go for him once more. Draco, the blonde-haired seeker, didn’t hesitate to throw himself over the bludger, taking a harsh but controlled hit to the abdomen. The boy struggled on the ground to hold it still until Madam Hooch came to aid in his efforts. The players all hovered in the sky watching the commotion below keenly, as was everyone in the stands. Professor Lockhart was quick to be by the boy's side, along with McGonagall and Hooch once the rogue bludger had been taken care of. Hermione, Ron and Hagrid were already making their way off the stands but as Seamus took off to follow them, Dean grabbed his wrist and lightly pulled him back to the railings.

“We would only get in the way. Let’s wait for him to be moved to the hospital wing, yeah?”

Seamus looked at Dean for a second, no smile, no glint of anything but concern. The boy nodded and quickly his focus went back to his friend who was still laying on the ground.

~~~~~~~~~~

Harry was not allowed many visitors as a complication occurred and fixing it would be very painful for him, Hermione and Ronald returned to the Gryffindor common room delivering the news that the boy is fine, just confused and in a lot of pain. The common room that night was alive, very much alive. A spell was put on the tower to keep the sound so that none of the teachers would be disturbed, the boy had a spell on it meaning anyone who wasn’t a Gryffindor had to be invited in to join the celebrations. Theodore Knott for example joined in, sticking with Neville and Ginny who were in a corner watching the twins do something stupid. Luna Lovegood popped in to ask Seamus for help with some homework which Dean thought was super sweet but the attention the young girl got was quite unexpected. Dean left the party at eight o’clock after having been given two energy drinks by the lovely Lee Jordan before he joined his two friends in attempting to create indoor fireworks.

Hagrid was down by his hut and they started straight away, first, they went to the owlery and there was a room just below. It had all the equipment needed to clean out the owlery and the boy was given his own set of keys. They cleaned out the whole room, washing down the faeces from the walls and floors but the stone was mostly clean and they mostly focused on the perches built into the walls. All the straw on the floor was cleaned out and all the debris was swept out the window, new straw was scattered across the floor, a thicker layer close to the cubby holes built into the walls. The food was cleaned out, all the stall stuff was thrown away and the bowl was refilled with fresh pellets of food but apparently, most of the owls hunted for themselves. The water bowl was also changed out but this was done with a spell that dried out the old water and an old-fashioned little tap that easily fills it up. All in all, it was a fairly easy task, the most challenging thing about it was dragging all the buckets of used straw and stale food down all the way to Hagrid's hut using a secret entrance outside just next to the tower the owlery was in.

By the time they finished, it was about a quarter to nine, Professor McGonagall was down by Hagrid's hut waiting for them patiently by the door. They dropped the buckets down by the back and then went to see the Professor.

“How did you find that Dean?” The woman asked kindly with her hands folded behind her back.

“I didn’t realise how long it takes” Dean’s voice was quiet and a little gravely, his arms were limp by his side, heavily exhausted by the events throughout the day the boy was struggling to keep his eyes open.

“And are you still up for it?” The woman raised her eyebrow to him, probably not realising how condescending she looked.

“Yes,” The boy smiled up at Hagrid, “Thank you for showing me and allowing me to do this.” The man put his large hand over the boy's entire shoulder and shook it lightly back and forth.

“Get some rest kiddo, you're gonna feel that in the morning,” Hargid said goodnight to both the Professor and the student then retired inside his residence as they both went inside the castle. McGonagall walked Dean about halfway to the common room then bid him goodnight, it seemed the woman didn’t wish to go further to not disrupt the party she obviously knew was happening. Many forget that the majority of Professors at Hogwarts attended the school in their youth.

The party was still very much alive by the time he had arrived, in fact, it seemed more packed than anything, Drinks were being passed around by the older years who were still giggling when the alcohol changed into a fizzy drink of some sort. Seamus was balancing on a large pile of books on one leg, beside him was a pile of books on the ground after someone's defeat and next to that Lee Jordan was smirking at Seamus standing on a pile of similar heights. Of course, in his hands was a large cup of whatever he was drinking which had just been refilled by his friends. People around the room were taking turns flinging things close to them to see if they’d jump and fall, this could be by magic or just good old fashioned yeeting it. When Dean showed his face Shay’s face lit up but his balance almost broke. The boy faced them then got out his wand, admiring the books on each pile.

“Accio Alchemical Duodecimo” A large book from the middle of Lee jordans pile flew over to Dean who caught it in his hand, it seemed that the large book was the only stable part of the stack of books because it lost its balance. Lee went flying forward but Fred Weasley managed to nab his drink before any of it could fall. Dean gasped and went to help the boy up only to find him laughing hysterically with the rest of the room, when the young boy apologised he was brushed off and instead celebrated. Shay was given a drink and a stupid homemade trophy thing while still on the stack of books but then he jumped down. The two of them hugged immediately and then the champion gifted his drink to his friend with a smile.

“Alright? Who else were you up against”

“Percy lasted like two seconds but we were on a while”

The others seemed to be creating three more piles while the two of them found a spot to talk while also watching the new competition unfold. This time it was the Weasley twins and Neville who’d gotten on the piles. The twins began to fight but eventually lost their balance and fell leaving Neville as the winner however he was too frightened to move.

While the rest of the room erupted into a mix of cheers and laughter, Neville was red-faced stuck on the large pile of books. Seamus was too busy laughing to help and even grabbed Dean’s arm so he couldn’t go either. In the end, it was Luna Lovegood who floated over, the girl held out her hands to the boy with a sweet smile. Neville was wary, “Don’t worry Neville, I will catch you if you fall” The girl's voice was spacy but somehow angelic sounding. Quiet enough so that only a few right next to the scene could hear. Neville took hold of her hands, squeezing his eyes shut. The girl pulled him forward watching as the books fell forward with him still balanced on the first one. The cheers only got louder.

“Wanna stay down for a bit?” Shay smiled at his friend, bringing his attention back to them.

“Yeah…Unless you wanna go up?” Dean raised his eyebrow and cocked his head to a friend, knowing if one of them went up the other would probably follow.

“Nah just wanted to know how the thing went” Seamus leaned his back on the wall watching as Luna made her way out.

“I went well. I’ll tell you about it tomorrow, Yeah?”

Seamus nodded and then they went to spend the rest of the night with Neville and Theo, bullying the Slytherin about his team's embarrassing loss.

Chapter Text

Sunday, 15th November 1992

Harry came back to the dorm room early the next morning, the boy's arm was perfectly fine after a close examination of each person in the room. The bone had grown back, apparently just as good as new. Seamus kept shaking his arm wishing it would fall limp like it did the day before, Ronald snatched it away but Dean watched Harry who had a sorrowful look on his face.

“You alright?” Harry’s eyes began to go red, a teardrop balancing on his eyelashes.

“Colin Creevery, the first-year kid always taking pictures…he was petrified last night.” The smile on each of the boys dropped, Seamus looked to his friend who looked frozen. Nothing more was said, none of them really knew what to say to something like that. Dean walked to his bed, climbed behind the transparent curtains he had and curled back into bed. Everyone else was getting ready for the day. Ron and Harry rushed out the door, probably to avoid the swarms of people asking about his arm or congratulating him for winning the game. Neville waited for Seamus but he nodded for the boy to go on without him.

Dean lay still on the bed, facing away from Seamus’s bed where he was sitting, intently watching his friend for any movement at all. After a few minutes of silence, Seamus called over the ginger kitten that ruled the dorm room and dumped him on Dean’s bed. The cat immediately screamed out to the boy, pushing his face into Dean’s arm, then his shoulder and finally his face. Walking around him, over him, meowing loudly next to his ear until the boy began to stroke him. An opening for Seamus to talk to him without an excuse to ignore him.

“You aight? You know him at all…or just-?” The Irish lad was silenced to a halt before he could continue, Dean had sat up, scooping the cat into his lap where he happily sat purring. The curtains made his view fuzzy but the boy lifted his wrist up to his face and wiped his cheek making it much clearer to Seamus who frowned.

“I-I just…I want to go home” The boy sniffled a little, wiping away his tears with the sleeve of his shirt, “I don’t know how we can live with this? How am I supposed to go out, to lessons, to tea, to live my life without thinking I could be attacked any minute? No one knows who’s doing it, even the teachers have no clue at all. Colin’s been at the school for one year. One year and his life is already hanging by a threat. Not even a year, we are a few months in. Muggleborns and half-bloods, anyone without ‘pure blood’ is being hunted like prey and there is nothing anyone can do about it.” The boy's quiet, raspy voice was turning into a loud vent interrupted by desperate gasps for air, “I don’t want to be here, I don’t want to spend the rest of the year wondering which friends I might lose. Hermione, the twins” The boy paused his rant, wiping the tears and snot from his face and turning to face his friend, “You, for god's sake. I don’t wanna wake up for someone to tell me you’ve been petrified or-or”

Seamus hurried past the flimsy curtains around his friend's bed, sitting beside him wrapping his arms around the boy's neck, pulling him into a tight hug. Dean buried his face in the shoulder of Seamus, sobbing uncontrollably with his arms wrapping around his friend. The crying was hysterical, anytime he tried to stop looking at his friend made him cry again, the boys eventually divided. The cat attempted to cheer his owner up by laying beside him, rolling on his back but nothing helped. Dean managed to cry and cry until it had taken all the energy from him and he curled up underneath the safety of his large duvet that weighed him down further into his mattress where all his problems were swallowed whole. Seamus made himself comfy in the bed sitting on the other side with a book. During his friend’s nap he turned to face Seamus, scooting up and using his thighs as pillows, cuddling up to them peacefully as he slept. Neville came back from breakfast before Dean woke from his slumber, the dreadful creak of the floorboards across the dorm was not enough to wake sleeping beauty. The two of them stayed in bed until almost noon, Neville happily brought his friends up a range of snacks and drinks then went off to spend the day with Ginny Weasley who’d asked for his help in Herbology. They had plans to go out to the lake which practically meant the pair of them had the dorm to themselves until after tea.

It was half twelve when Dean woke, rubbing his eyes and sitting up to see his friend beside him. The boy moved plenty during his sleep, twitching and turning from side to side, reaching out for things to hug like his pillow, duvet or Seamus’s leg apparently. When dragging himself up it seemed like all the energy in his body had been drained, Seamus grabbed him a glass of water.

“Do you feel any better?” Seamus waited till after the glass of water was chugged.

“Not really, I’m sorry I went off, it's just, you know” Dean sighed and leaned his head back onto the wall behind him and raised his knees up to his chest.

“You’ve nothing to be sorry for, Colin doesn’t deserve what he’s going for and neither will the other victims of whatever psycho is doing this but what I know is me and you will not be falling victim to this dick.” Dean raised his eyebrow at the foul language but Seamus continued, “It’s probably some stupid seventh-year who believes that pure bloods are better than the rest of us…”

Dean looked to his friend with a solemn expression on his face then leaned on him, his face squashed against Seamus’s shoulder, “I’m not sure I can do this much longer Shay”

Seamus reached his hand out to his friend, hovering over it, hesitant as to whether to grasp onto it or not. In the end, he did take his friend's hand, squeezing it a little before resting it on his leg, “I won’t let anything happen…I promise”. The boy's heartbeat was racing, probably enough to vibrate his entire body but Dean didn’t seem to notice. Last year, Seamus couldn’t protect Dean when he was attacked, instead, he held his friend as he was bleeding onto the stone floors helpless and dying. He wanted to protect him here, he had to. The boy going home would be disastrous, Seamus was barely surviving now and selfishly he needed Dean. The boy kept him sane, kept him safe from himself. Would that cost Dean?

The pair of Wizards stayed like that for a while, there was even time they had to squeeze each other's hands to check to see if the others were awake or had dozed off into another sleep. When they did finally get out of them they devoured the food gifted to them by Neville and then went down to the last twenty minutes of lunch to stuff their faces. The hall was different now too, Colin was a lovely boy, kind and energetic, someone everyone knew. Without him everything seemed more empty. Chatter was to a minimum and it seemed laughter of any sort was banned from the hall altogether. It seemed many people were just whispering in small groups, even the teachers. The whole room seemed sorrowful but mostly paranoid. Like Dean many students didn’t feel safe, many wanted to go home and many of them probably would end up leaving.

Harry, Ron and Hermione were not seen again until Dinner, the whole hall was very obvious about the subject of their gossiping from staring, whispers that carried through the hall and even pointing. The boy shifted uncomfortable while the other two made a habit of glaring at those around. With the tragic loss of Colin the other Gryfindors began rethinking their house loyalty a little bit as some had turned to stare at the poor boy also. Dean was quiet throughout tea, Neville noticed but anytime he would try and speak to him Seamus would interrupt loudly, drawing almost all attention to him. This made Harry a little happier also but infuriated Neville by the end of the night. Dean and Seamus went up to the owlery straight after tea while there was still light in the sky. The water was good but they had to fish out a few sticks of straw before heading back to the Gryffindor Common room. The halls were emptier than usual, kids walking in groups of at least three and most with their hands in their pockets probably holding onto their wands like their life depends on it.

Dean and Seamus walked into a very packed Gryffindor common room, every seat filled with people sitting on each other's laps, armrests and even the floors. The windowsills and desks were all taken as well. The two boys had never seen it so busy. Three people were obviously missing though, Harry was smart in hiding. Many people there had it in their minds that he was the heir, though the only evidence of this was that he was the only one unlucky enough to find the message. Back at the dorm, Dean went straight into his bed, curling up under the covers. Seamus wanted to go with him but Neville dragged him over to the other lads who wanted to play a game of cards. They ended up playing late into the night.

Monday, 16th November 1992

Dean did not get out of bed that morning, any time Seamus or Neville tried to wake him up he would turn over and mumble something about not feeling well. Seamus wanted to have a day off too but Neville pouted about being alone all day so he did end up going to lessons. The classes were normal, any homework given out Seamus got two off to give to Dean when they returned. His friend stayed in the room all day but went to give him a plate of food after lunch making him late for Potions. Professor Snape was in a particularly nasty mood so after having shamed the boy in front of the whole class the man took five house points and gave him a detention. The man also partnered Seamus with Hermione saying if anything appeared to be set alight or if an explosion takes place it would be another detention. To say the least, Seamus did not touch the cauldron that day but simply helped collect ingredients and read instructions out loud to a very understanding partner. In fact, she admitted she liked the lesson far better when she was doing it alone, to ensure it was being done right.

Right after potions, Seamus ran back to the dorm only to find Dean getting dressed in some actual clothes, “You're coming to tea?”

Dean nodded with a weak smile but his eyes struggled to stay open. “Yeah…I’m starving”

Seamus left the homework on his friend's nightstand and together they slowly made their way down to the Great Hall. Many people the boys passed on the way smiled at Dean, asking if he was okay. Seamus felt a little jealous when it happened, of course, he would just make a joke about how Dean just wanted to skip for the day but part of him wanted to drag his friend away and tell them to do one. Sometimes he felt as if he liked Dean a lot more than Dean liked him, they spent all their time together but Seamus was still jealous of his other friends, not the ones in the dorm but instead the ones he makes all around the castle. Some in the Gryffindor Common room where he’d been nosy and joined in someone's conversation to help them out, offering them advice. Or when he’s stopped in the hall to help someone who’d dropped their things. At the beginning of the year he did this thing where he would go around with a box of his father's homemade cookies and offer them to first-years who missed their home. He would tell them about his father and his mother, how he missed them so but how writing to them made him excited for every letter back. This year, he had taught five students how to send owls, even letting them know which owls were the schools and how to identify them.

The Gryffindors were ecstatic to see Dean, especially the second years some of which began to cheer him in. The chatter before tea was silenced quickly as McGonagall had moved to the front of the golden pedestal seemingly to make a speech of some sort.

“Now as Christmas is approaching fast, we all need to think about how we are spending it. Any student who wishes to spend their Christmas here at Hogwarts will have to add your name to the sign up list that will be hung up by my office door. I will need this at least one week before the beginning of the holidays.”

Seamus was dreading going home, it was something he’d hoped to avoid thinking about till at least December. The boy felt his skin burn and his stomach fall when he began to think about going home, the darkness, the cold, the loneliness. Dean’s knee barging into his own made him look up from the empty plate in front of him.

“You okay?” The boy’s voice was soft, empathic. An empathy you could confess all your secrets to without regret. Stupid Dean.

Seamus shrugged, lying about this seemed pointless, besides his friend's stupid concerned look was sad enough for the both of them, “Don’t wanna go home”

Dean took a while to respond, biting the inside of his lip thinking of something to say, “Why? You gonna miss me too much?” The boy cracked a little smirk before adding some food to his friend's plate.

“It’s so boring, you know? Can’t do magic, no friends around” The boy thought of Mary for a moment but then continued swiftly, “Actually…do you wanna spend Christmas with us? Away from your beloved city and in the countryside.” Seamus said this in such a confident way even he was surprised by the insecurity that had quickly infected his heart. He held a wild teeth-baring smile and surprisingly got one in return.

“Wait, really?” Dean's smile was matched with wide eyes of shock, “I’d love that! I’m sure my folks wouldn’t mind”

Seamus raised his eyebrow and laughed a little in disbelief, “I’ll write to my parents tonight?” The boy laughed and again, that was the last they spoke of that night, both of them contently ate their dinner chatting away to their other friends. Dean’s knee still resting on his friends, Seamus now thinking about Christmas with the Londoner.

That night Seamus wrote a letter to his parents, it was addressed to both of them but he knew his mother would take it and read it all by herself. The boy's father may get a hold of it but that would be after she sent her reply using the only owl in the house.

‘Dear Mum and Dad,

The school has been bringing up Christmas recently and I was thinking of inviting Dean to ours for the holidays as his family was kind enough to have me last year. He’s never been to Ireland and I’d love to show him the farm and all that. Reckon he would be a huge help in the morning, he wakes up earlier than me!

Let me know soon, I’ll send his parent's information with this letter just to save time in case that is a yes. I would love for Dean to come around, I wouldn’t need anything else for Christmas I swear.

Lots of love,
Seamus’

Orla, the beautiful and loyal long-eared owl, was happy to snatch up the letter. The boys sat on the window sill between their beds watching the owl until she had disappeared into the darkness which didn’t take long at all. Dean was clearly tired but Seamus spent a while chatting about the potions class that he missed today, mostly thinking of all the different ways to insult the long-nosed snarky potions professor. That was no struggle though so it went on quite late in the night until Seamus had to drag his friend into his bed then retreating back to his own.

~~~~~~~~~~

Wednesday, 16th December 1992

It took a week for the letters from all the raging parents for Dumbledore to realise he had to do something about the threat that has infiltrated the school. It seemed he had organised a duelling club to help the students learn spells they can use to defend themself, though the teachers were a questionable choice. Gilderoy Lockhart, the boastful and full of himself, defence against the dark arts Professor who has not done a single spell right since he started at this school. Alongside him, Professor Snape, the sour and wicked bully of a man who'd been rejected from the job he wanted for years. Seamus and Dean wasted no time signing up. It was split into beginner and advanced. Years one through to three were put in the beginners while years four through to seven were taught advanced. The first lesson was last week, the Professors demonstrated a spell that ended in the defence against the dark arts professor being flung backwards. Many students were paired up to have a go and by the end Seamus was called up with Ronald, while most of the room was sure the Irish lad would pull this off occasionally a student would cheer on Ron. As it turns out Ron did manage to land Seamus on his ass but was due to a malfunction with his wand as opposed to talent or skill at any level. The ginger boy rushed over to his friend, offering a hand to help him up while apologising profusely.

This week the gathering of students had moved away from learning specific spells and instead were just going straight for actual duels. Professor Lockhart was obviously extremely excited, as was the crowd. There was a buzz in the room that every single one of the students could feel. Seamus was conflicted as to which of the teachers he would rather see be knocked down but in the end, either was fine. Both teachers climbed up onto this stand that was centre to the room, each stood on opposite ends of this runway type structure. Snape stood with his head held high and arm stretched over his head to his opponent who was just holding out his wand addressing the students with a cocky smirk. When the battle had finally commenced, the Potions Professor waved his wand around his head then with the flick of his wrist a blue light shot from his wand hitting the other man’s chest so hard he was pushed back onto his back.

The crowd erupted into cheers as soon as Snape had made the first move and it only got louder when the Professor was thrown onto his back. Seamus was screaming, his arms waving in the air, Dean was clapping widely until the rowdy crowd was silenced by the blonde Professor who laughed it up, attempting to say he allowed it to happen in the name of education. Anyone in that room with brain cells could deduct the lies from a mile away.

They swiftly moved on though, choosing two students they wished to face each other, two random students. Once Gilderoy had chosen Harry Potter, Snape was quick to choose the Malfoy demon to go against him. The two boys couldn’t hear exactly what was being said between the two of them but it clearly wasn’t anything of importance. The spells being performed on one another got more dangerous and reckless but the professors were just as intrigued as the students. Draco did a spell that immediately made every single student in the room freeze, even holding their breath. Dean and Seamus froze, leaning into each other more with the Londoner putting himself in front of his friend slightly as a snake began to slither across the stage. The snake was at first very intent on attacking Harry but it seemed to change course halfway through, now his gaze was stuck on Justin Finch-Fletchey, a Hufflepuff that was now shaking in fear. Those surrounding the boy had taken quiet steps back moving their hands to their wands, waiting for someone braver to do something.

It was Harry that did something, the boy was whispering a language to the Snake. One the others have never heard before, cluelessly Dean and Seamus watched most of the students look at the Potter boy with horrifying looks on their faces. One of outright terror and some of anger. All while Harry slowly approached the Snake, speaking to it as it crawled closer to the poor Hufflepuff lad. Professor Snape was the one who destroyed the Snake, reducing it to ashes within seconds. Draco was pulled away by the Potions Professor while Harry was left on the stage while the other Professor announced the duel was over and they should all retreat to their common rooms or something. Harry was pulled away by Ron and Hermione while Dean pulled Seamus out, somehow managing to collect Neville on their way out. Thankfully their pureblooded friend knew why Harry talking gibberish to the snake was such a big deal, for the small journey it took for them to reach their dorm that night Seamus just believed that Harry had a few screws loose.

“Parseltongue?”

“A language for Snakes?”

“Yes yes how many times must I explain it?” Neville took a breath then continued, “It’s an extremely rare gift and it is passed down through blood. Salazar Slytherin had the same ability and therefore so does his heir….guess people in this school put two and two together” Neville bit the inside of his lip nervously.

“But Harry can’t be the heir…” Dean’s voice was timid, more so than Nevilles as if the two of them were trying to convince themselves more than anything.

Seamus came swanning in with the vote of confidence, “Harry Potter is not the heir. He is our friend. Our roommate. More importantly, a child who has the magical capabilities of…well…a fucking child? We will not doubt him, half the school already fears him”

The other two nodded along and when Harry and Ronald arrived back that night, all five of them hung out for a few hours before they eventually went to bed. Harry was quiet, Ron seemed quite angry at first but the others lightened the mood enough for them to relax a little bit. It seemed their support was appreciated since the entirety of the school wholeheartedly believed he was a psycho going around petrifying anyone who wasn’t pureblooded.

Friday, 18th December 1992

This was their last day of school for the Christmas break, Seamus had heard back from his parents yesterday but only just got the courage to open it that morning. Him and Dean stayed back while the others hurried off to breakfast.

‘Seamus,

After much consideration, your father and I have agreed it would be a pleasure to have Dean around throughout Christmas. We have spoken to his parents to organise travel which will be through the Leaky Cauldron's floo network as it is the easiest and most convenient.

Dean will arrive on the 23rd of December and will be escorted home on the 30th. While staying he will be in your room and you will still be needed on the farm as Samson wanted a few weeks off for Christmas.

Your father and Paddy are very excited to meet your friend.

Will see you in a few days,

Lot’s of love,

Mum’

Seamus stared at the paper while his friend sat nervously beside him, Dean was too polite to peer over his friend's shoulder and read the letter. Which didn’t come too much as a shock. Soon the boys neutral expression turned into a large smile to which he jumped up, cheering hysterically, Dean joining in soon after.

“YOU’LL BE SPENDING CHRISTMAS AT MY GAFF”

They cheered for a few more minutes before racing down to breakfast, towards the end of the year uniform disciplinary got less strict, so Seamus swanning down to breakfast with an untucked oversized shirt, no tie and a messy cloak was no shock to anyone.

After breakfast they had a small free period, Dean had to chase Hagrid down which took up most of that valued time. Hagrid’s location was eventually discovered and Dean had to run to catch up to him. Seamus kept his distance as he knew what was to be said. With all this uncertainty surrounding these attacks neither of the boys wished for Dean to continue his duty with the owls. Dean felt so bad he cried for an entire night but Seamus begged him to go through with it and temporarily discontinue his duties. Hagrid seemed very understanding, speaking in a low voice with his giant hand on the boy's shoulder.

Dean came over, his eyes glossy and filled with unfallen tears but a small smile on his face, “Come on, herbology next isn’t it?”

Seamus linked arms with his friend and together they wandered over to the classroom only to find a sheet of paper stuck to the door. ‘All herbology lessons cancelled for the foreseeable future to all years except fifth and seventh’

The boys turned to face one another, wide smiles and bright eyes knowing exactly what they were to do. Running through the almost empty halls of the castle for what seemed like an eternity they ended up outside. Dark grey clouds filled up the sky, the bright blue shielding away from them. Rain began to drop gently onto the masses of grass that seemed to go on endlessly into the forest that surrounded the great school. The two boys went and sat under a large tree by the Black Lake, its leaves shielded them slightly from the raindrops as they leant against the rough bark. Dean had his legs curled up with his knees leaning over to his friend who was sitting with his legs spread out as he watched the ripples that began to appear over the large, glistening body of water, occasionally seeing a tentacle brush just past the surface then disappear back into the lake.

Dean had his arms wrapped around his knees and his face squished up against his friend's shoulder, they sat shivering in the cold for what felt like hours until finally, an intruder was upon them. Theodore Nott came running down the hill, his limbs flailing everywhere and his drenched hair clumped together or plastered on his forehead. Halfway down he began to yell something but it came back to the pair distorted and unrecognisable but then it became clear.

“ITS STr-...AIN. SOMEON-....HAS BE-...ATTACKED. GET UP”

It still wasn’t making out perfectly the two Gryffindor students could piece together what little information was given to them, Dean shot up dragging Seamus as he ran to meet with Theodore. The boy was now bent over, dry heaving until finally, he’d caught enough breath to speak once more. “Justine Finch-Fletchley’s been petrified. Him and Nearly headless Nick. They were found just now…with Harry-”

Dean’s expression was that of shock, his eyes were wide. What was once joy was now struck with fear and once against doubt. The boy's limbs froze while his mouth hung open in shock. Seamus was stuck on Theodore who’d just sprinted across the Hogwarts grounds to alert them, “What’s happening now?”

“They've been moved to the hospital wing, Harry’s gone to the head teacher's office and everyone else is packing as quickly as they can to get away from this mess. You guys should go and pack because I heard the trains coming early tomorrow, like straight after breakfast”

The three of them began to rapidly make their way up to the castle once more, attempting not to slip on the now-saturated grass and the thick sludge of mud it had created. Once inside the halls were suspiciously deserted, not a single student in sight until they had reached the Gryffindor Common room. Many people were rushing around, collecting the belongings they’d kept lying around while others were comforting their friends who, like Dean, had been struck to the core by fear. Fearing for their lives in their own school. Hermione and Ronald were not found until the two boys entered the dorm room. Hermione took one long look at the drenched Dean and ran to him, giving him a very long tight hug but Dean was non-reactive.

“You are drenched, both of you. Go and have a hot shower before either of you catch a cold” While her tone was strict and sharp, the girl rubbed Dean’s arm as she walked him to the bathroom.

Seamus grabbed his friend a towel and helped him get rid of his cloak, which weighed heavily on him and his tie which was now thick thanks to the rainwater. Then he left him to enjoy a steaming hot shower. Hermione, Ron and Neville had shut themselves in Ron’s bed to give the boys their privacy.

It took only twenty minutes for them to shower and get changed into fresh clothes, they sat by the roaring fire on the end of Seamus’s bed for a few seconds before finally, Dean spoke for the first time since the news, “I can’t wait to go home”.

Seamus frowned at his friend and nodded, Dean leaned against his friend for support and they sat for a while, even as Harry returned and everyone was gathered talking about today's events. Seamus couldn’t help but feel a stirring in the pit of his stomach. He did not feel safe at Hogwarts but he never felt safe at home.

Chapter Text

Wednesday 23rd December, 1992

“Honey, have you packed your toothbrush? And don’t forget your pyjamas either. You’ll need a couple of coats because it’s cold down there”

“I’m sure they’ll have a few coats he could borrow. At this rate, he’ll be bringing everything he owns over there”

“Better than leaving him stranded with nothing”

“Stranded? Babe, he’ll be with the lovely Finnigans for the week, plus I’m sure he’ll be able to buy a replacement for whatever he has forgotten. How much are we giving them?”

“Dunno, For safe measure I think £100 for Dean, I’m sure he won’t have to spend it all but just in case, we can give the girls the same amount too”

Dean came down the stairs where his parents were standing, Pam leaning back onto the wall with her arms crossed while Ian was standing in front of her, a large grin on the man's face. “I’ve got my pyjamas and I’ll put my toothbrush in tomorrow. Dad’s right, I’ll borrow Seamus’s stuff if I’ve forgotten anything”

The adults turned their attentions over to their son who was dragging down a black duffle bag, flinching with every clash it made with every different step. Ian was the first to reply to the young boy, “You sure you're okay with us going away? It still feels unfair to you that we are going abroad on holiday while you're going to a mate”

“I’m going abroad too. So with that logic, it would be unfair for you guys not to go on holiday, besides Lizzie will be in uni next year, this may be the last year they are together for more than a week” Dean had reached the bottom step, the duffle fell to onto the wooden ground with a loud bang that echoed through the entire building.

Pam smiled at her son, resting a hand on one of his cheeks, “What a brilliant argument, Pumpkin.” The woman pulled his head down gently, placing a soft kiss on the side of his forehead, causing him to blush a little, “Such a compassionate young man…”

“We’ve spoken to Charlotte about tomorrow, she’ll pick you up from the leaky cauldron at noon. I’ve got your passport, emergency contacts and money on the side in a little wallet and
I’ll give it to you tomorrow, okay? You’ll need to be very careful with these, they are very important. Try not to blow all that money on the first few days” Ian had not taken a few steps back, leaning himself casually against the bannister with one of his hands wrapped around the young boy's shoulder.

“In fact, if you were wise you’d save some of that for during the year. Perhaps Charlotte will take you and your little friend to that wizarding street” Pam had now begun to move his luggage over to the hallway beside the door, so it is out of the way and out of sight to the residence.

“Maybe. I wouldn’t mind seeing more of Ireland as well, from what Seamus told me it’s mostly fields and mountains” Dean grinned widely, feeling the excited buzz that was once just lingering now resurface in his heart.

“You know that’s what Englands like too? We just happen to live in a city-” Ian’s sarcasm was noted and in response, Dean attempted to nudge him which happened to start a little play fight between them which ended in them attempting to play football in the miniscule garden. The attempt was made by making goals with an ancient moss-infested bird bath along with a frisbee that had appeared over the last few days from another garden, Dean's side was made with one of the metal patio chairs coated in the thick silvery web of spiders that had run back into hiding and an abnormally large ashtray for when Pam had a rather difficult day at the firm. Of course, she claimed this hadn’t been used for years-

While the boys were outside, the twins were upstairs arguing over what to pack whereas Elizabeth had finished packing and joined them outside to settle the score. Later on, when the twins had their suitcases almost fully packed they had sorted teams amongst themselves. On Ian’s team was Lizzie and Maple whereas Pam’s team had Dean and Donna. It was dark when the Thomas’s finally retreated from the harsh crisp winter breeze and the incredible noise pollution London managed to rile up even in the less populated parts. The score was unknown as the game spiralled into cheats and vile tactics that just seemed to breed more chaos until most of them were just laughing while the others were arguing. Dean had missed his home, his family especially.

Thursday 24th December, 1992

The morning was full of chaos, Ian was whizzing around the kitchen trying to make the best breakfast ever while Pam was going through everyone's bags making sure they’d packed everything. First it was Dean’s bag, She managed to add in more clothes and the wallet of valuables to his duffel before sending the boy downstairs to wait for breakfast. The twins were next, Donna had packed everything but packed it in a way that brought tears to their stepmothers' eyes, Maple's bag was beautifully packed as she’d included two outfits and used the remaining space for books. It took only a few minutes to force the girl to choose her favourite books and then add more items of clothing. Elizabeth's bag didn’t need to be searched as she was old enough to pack it herself but Pam did make sure she had her passport and money.

Breakfast was late but the table was filled with an assortment of fruit, cereals and yoghurts as well as homemade cinnamon buns, pancakes and waffles with any and all toppings he could find or make. Dean’s heart was full, the boy felt a little guilty spending most of his Christmas break away from home but this was an opportunity he was not willing to give up. Besides he could still send them letters, it just might take a little longer to arrive. Perhaps a phone call would be more appropriate.

The morning was fairly cheery up until the point Dean was standing by the door, duffle set down by his feet and Ian already in the car warming it up from the winter chill. Maple waved at him whereas Donna went and hugged him for so long the girl had to be dragged away, Lizzie was much kinder. The girl hugged him and told him how many souvenirs she would get for him. Pam gave him a little kiss on the forehead and hugged him so hard his lungs had forgotten how to breathe, Dean felt guilty when he saw the tears that began to form in her eyes which made her grateful that it was Ian driving him.

The drive was quiet, the dampened music from the radio filled the silence but Dean heard shouting from outside the car, various other noises like crying and singing all from the streets of London.

“You excited, yeah?”

“Yeah”

“Has your friends told you much about his place?”

“He lives on a farm, I know for sure they’ve got cows. They are by a little village but apart from that not much else. I don’t think we’ve talked much about his family, not recently but I’ll tell you more about it over the phone”

“We’ll call when we land”

The pub wasn’t far from their house but with traffic it did take a while to arrive. When entering, Charlotte sat at one of the tables with her skeleton fingers wrapped around an almost full cup of coffee. Ian walked Dean to the table and was greeted with a hesitant smile, the boy tucked his duffle bag under the table but didn’t sit. Charlotte rose from her chair and stood before Ian, “Good afternoon, Sorry I got here early so thought I’d have time for a coffee. Did you want anything?”

“No thank you, Unfortunately, I can’t stay, I’ve got a flight to catch but I’ll get Dean a drink before I go so you can finish your coffee” Ian was heading for the bar but the woman blocked his path swiftly.

“That’s fine, I can get him something. You go off, enjoy your holiday” The woman’s smile almost came across as genuine, Ian kissed Dean before he left, Dean watched as his father left then sat down.

“Hot chocolate and a sandwich?” Charlotte waited for a nod before disappearing over to the bar. Dean looked around, it was very quiet, a few people were dotted around. Some with pints while others had hot drinks. It was a fairly welcoming bar, people in long cloaks like the professors at Hogwarts, some in suits while others in a strange but fairly beautiful mix of the two.

“Here’s your drink sweetie” The woman seemed to come out of nowhere, making the young boy jump a little. But he smiled and took the cup.

“Thank you” The boy knew better than to drink it before it cooled, the stack of whipped cream towered on top of the drink only insulated the heat more.

“My name is Charlotte, My husband is called Darren. We are just as excited as Seamus to have you around.” The woman took a sip from her coffee but continued, “Seamus’s grandmother also lives with us, she does not speak much English but just call her móraí. I’ll let Seamus show you around when we get back but just be careful, The farm has some fairly dangerous equipment on it and I don’t want you guys to get hurt. Please listen to Seamus if he warns you about anything, I really can’t be dealing with any injuries during Christmas”

Dean laughed a little, as did the woman surprisingly, “Don’t worry, I don’t particularly want to cut this visit short either. Thank you again for having me around”

Charlotte smiled again, putting her coffee down on the side, “Aren’t you polite? We are overjoyed to have you stay, besides with our farm hand enjoying his holiday we made need an extra man around”

The lunch was fairly pleasant, Charlotte was kind and upbeat. The woman asked a lot about the boy's time at school, where his family had gone during the week during Christmas and also how he felt about his future and the subjects he hoped to pursue. Dean only told her about the subjects Seamus was also thinking of, nothing too advanced like Ancient runes. After they finished their drinks and food, it was through the floo network they travelled, Dean had seen it done. This time last year however it looked satanic as the old woman walking through was swallowed by the green flames it created. Charlotte explained how it worked simply, take a small handful of the floo powder then throw it harshly onto the ground stating clearly the place they needed to go. The closest fire connected to the floo network was the local village Seamus lived near, it was the church it was connected to which was a surprise to Dean as his friend had never mentioned anything about being religious.

Charlotte made conversation with the pastor but eventually, they climbed into a car and drove not long out of town before they pulled up to a house. The building itself had an old gravely stone wall that merged from the side of the home and separated the beginning of a field to the useless grasslands that were settled in the front of their home. The house was long, with two chimneys that stuck up from the roof and a worn coat of white paint that was now chipping off or discoloured closer to beige than white. Climbing up the front of the building were vines of some sort of unknown plant that looked as though it was dying and the windows were enormous.

As soon as Dean exited the vehicle, his friend ran from his house tackling him in a giant hug causing both of them to fall onto the damn grass.

“Shay it’s been a few days” Dean laughed and got up, helping his friend also.

“It’s been ages” Seamus almost made Dean topple back onto the ground with how aggressively he pulled on his friend's arm to get up.

Dean grabbed his bag from the car and then entered the building, Charlotte disappeared somewhere in the house whereas Seamus led Dean into the living room. At first, it was dormant but a woman spoke from behind him, she was sitting by the window. A seat that rocked gently back and forth in the little light that came piercing through the window, a blanket set on her lap with a crossword and a pencil in her hand. The woman's tone was gentle and brittle, in a language Dean did not recognise, Irish.

“Garmhac, Cé hé seo” (Grandson, who is this?)

“Is cara ón scoil é. Dean is ainm dó.” (He is a friend from school, His name is Dean)

“Is Sasanach é” (he is an Englishman?)

“Tá sé. Tá Dean ag fanacht ar feadh tamaill” (He is. Dean is staying for a while.)

“Maith. B’fhéidir go gcuirfidh sé solas ar an teach seo” (Good. Perhaps he will cast light over this house)

Seamus spoke to his grandmother while crouching down by her side, holding one of her delicate hands. The woman planted a kiss on her grandchild's head, then she took back her hand scanning the pages once more. The boy went over to his friend leading him now into the kitchen.

“That’s my grandmother, she wishes to welcome you into our home. She knows a little English, not much I must admit. Did you want a drink?” Seamus wore a black pair of joggers and an oversized shirt that seemed to have many stains old and new.

“Yes please” Dean followed him into the kitchen, wearing Jeans and a lovely little shirt that his mother convinced him would make a good impression on the Finnigans.

“Don’t reckon you brought any joggers with you? Doing farmwork in such a lovely outfit may disappoint you” Seamus smirked and handed his friend a glass of water.

“Course I did, You’ve told me enough horror stories for me to know the appropriate farming gear, like you getting your trainers caught in the mud and having to walk back inside with just your socks. Or you getting chased by a cow, falling and ruining that hoodie your parents got you for your birthday” Dean took a sip then discarded the glass on the side for a moment, “Where am I sleeping? Just so I can get that bag out from the hallway”

Seamus nodded and gestured for his friend to follow him, Dean retrieved his bag on the way. The home was very cluttered but in a warm kind of way, it was clutter like gifts from various relatives or photos or little toys that Seamus probably used when he was little. Occasionally he would see something fairly Christian that would again make him wonder how he didn’t know the Finnigans were religious. Seamus had never mentioned his thoughts on god before, strangely it was discussed a little in the dorms, the boys wondering what the universe was doing and what to believe. Thinking back to it, Seamus was oddly silent through these rare talks.

“You’ll just be in my room if that’s okay? We don’t have any spares and the house gets really cold so putting you in the living room would be like sending you off to die” Seamus jumped up a few times before gripping a black piece of rope that swung from the ceiling, when he pulled at it a ladder snapped open. Seamus climbed up then reached down for his friend's bag.

“Oh. Right. Yeah no that's fine.” Dean was a little distracted with the location of his friend's room but did indeed pass up his bag and swiftly followed him up. It was a large room, a beautiful window down by a structure that resembled a bird stand. In the centre was a large mattress with odd piles of pillows and blankets, it seemed as if the boy just jumped into this heap of things and slept in any position he deemed comfortable. Around were random things, since it was so big around the room were things common to see in a normal attic. Ancient relics that were boxed up and long forgotten but Seamus managed to organise it in a fun way, not a single piece of religious decoration in sight, a lot less than the rest of the home. Dean dumped his bag down next to a set of draws then dumped himself on the mattress looking up through the skylight. “Wow….your room is so cool”

Seamus was fiddling with something around the room but Dean was too entranced with the view he dared not look, “Thanks, It feels a lot more private than a room down there would’ve been” Eventually Seamus settled down beside Dean, just off the mattress as he’d sat cross-legged on the floorboards beside him. “Change out of all that and into something…less nice and we can go out onto the fields. I can show you around the farm. We are a livestock farm so we keep cows, sheep and chickens. Oh and we also let a load of stray cats wander about, they get rid of rodents and exchange they usually sleep in the barns. There are many fields as the sheep and cows are moved occasionally but the chickens don’t move. We also have a stupid goat that might attack you, he’s fairly protective. After a few days, he might even stop!”

Dean chuckled and began to get up again, off the comfortable cloud he fell upon. While refilling through his bag Seamus told him more about his Godfather Paddy. A man he might meet on the fields or even at dinner. Seamus always spoke highly of this man, it seemed he was an incredibly close family friend and Dean was thrilled to be able to meet him. Eventually, the Londoner managed to get out a pair of grey tracksuits along with a normal T-shirt but even then Seamus told him to put it back and borrow one of his from a certain drawer. Dean changed while Seamus began to talk about a friend he had met at church last year but just carried on that conversation until they were outside. The house seemed to be surrounded by fields, behind was a huge collection that even seemed to wrap around the side of the house but none reached further than the driveway down to their house.

To the right of where they stood was a field, down the bottom of it was a large barn and a tiny little shed beside it. “That barn is for like treating the animals, hoof care and trimming the sheep's wool around spring. We have a coop for the chickens over here” Seamus pointed more to the left this time, another smaller field, “They have free reign over that whole field though but the fences are taller to keep predators out. They are mostly for eggs, not poultry”

Dean looked at his friend with wide eyes then began to walk down the fields, “Okay and the other fields are for the cows and sheep then?”

Seamus followed his friend with a nod, “Ya but the dairy cows don’t move as often because they need to be milked fairly frequently but the sheep and bulls move every few days.” They reached the bottom of the field and to the right was another barn, much larger and surrounding it was a bunch of cows.

Dean froze up a little bit whereas Seamus rested comfortably against the wooden fence. The Londoner had never seen a single cow in person and now he was faced with a field full of around 40-50 full-sized cows, colours ranging from a dusky black to a deep brown. Seamus clicked into the crowds of farm animals on a field just beside the barn only to have a singular cow appear through the crowds, it was not as large as the other cows, with a white coat and beautiful light brown spots that covered its entire body. “This is Ewan, the calf I helped save over the summer holidays. He’s still a bit small compared to how he should be but I reckon he’ll catch up” The boy seemed to relax beside an animal already twice his size and not even fully grown. Deam nervously hung back a little bit, watching his friend take the bull's whole head in his arm, stroking the animal's nose gently.

“So what happens to the bulls?” Dean knew that the dairy cows were milked but didn’t want to think that this farm contributed to the slaughtering of animals.

“Well unfortunately they are raised until we slaughter them and sell the meat. However, some we sell on for breeding purposes as different features are desirable for different farms. We select a handful to keep for breeding too, we’ll keep them for a few years and then…well you get the idea.” Seamus frowned a little bit but kissed the bull on its nose and pushed away from the fence, walking towards Dean. “I know it seems quite cruel but we don’t have any other use for them. They cost so much to keep alive and their life isn’t too bad here. I don’t think so anyway”

Dean shook his head and met his friend halfway, looking past him to the young cow who had now begun to rip up the grass to nibble on, “No I know, it’s just weird to think about, you know?”

Seamus nodded casually and then shrugged, “Yeah but don’t worry, this time of year is mostly used to keep them all warm and fed. Nothing special while you are here. Except for a bunch of machinery that likes to break when it’s super cold.”

Dean looked past his friend then out into the field, the cows were fairly gathered with a few stragglers. Each held themselves with a careless strength yet the boy stood still a little weary of the animals that were before him, “Are they aggressive?”

Seamus laughed and took his friend by the arm, weaving his arm through and around then pulling him closer to the fence with little resistance. “Not even in the slightest, they are like big puppies” In the distance they saw a couple of figures walking around the giant herd of cows, after having spotted the boys they began walking up to the fence. One of the men he recognised as Darren had a large coat wrapped around his entire body while the man beside him wore only a knitted sweater. The man was larger than Seamus’s father beside him, not taller but certainly more muscles that were clear even when covered in thick layers for the December frost. Seamus spotted them the same time his friend did and went over to unlock the fence to let them through. Darren held a small smile whereas the man beside him held a stern glare. Dean was sure that was his friend's Godfather.

“Alright lad? See Shay has already got you out onto the fields” The man laughed and ruffled his sons fairly long hair before finally looking over to the man beside him, “Right this is Paddy, Seamus’s godfather and one of our most experienced farm hands”

“You just mean old” The man croaked out, his voice low and gravely not a shock to Dean at all, even though the silvery streaks in his hair made him look old the way he held himself it was impossible to see him as someone over fifty years old.

“Yeah Seamus was just showing me around the fields” Dean stood beside his friend, sticking close as the two older men kept their distance a little bit.

“Right, well you two can go feed the chickens and then get that stupid goat out of the sheep’s field before they eat all that grass. We're gonna deal with the cows then we can go back into that lovely house and scoff down whatever your mothers cooked for us” Darren smiled down at his son waiting for a response patiently.

“Yeah okay” Seamus pulled out a pair of gloves from his pocket then looked at Dean, sharply turning back to his father he spat out, “We got any spare gloves around?”

Paddy, the scruffy man, reached deep into his jean pockets managing, with much resistance, to squeeze out a pair of flattened black gloves then threw them at the Londoner, “Wouldn’t want our inspiring artist to lose his fingers?”

“Thanks…how did you-” Dean managed to scoop them from the air but when trying to question the man was pulled away from a very agitated Seamus, who’d begun pulling at the boy's forearm.

“Okay we’ll go do that now then” Seamus waved using his free hand leaving the two adults to chuckle as poor Dean was pulled back up to the fields closer to the house. The field the chickens were on was significantly smaller than the others, its fences were indeed much taller then the other fields and instead of wooden fences it was wired fences. The coop seemed to be fully open ensuring the hens had access inside to lay eggs whenever. The food was stored in a small shed just beside the wooden coop. Seamus let Dean do everything and basically just stood back directing him, teasing him when he’d gotten something wrong.

“Okay so what now?”

“Throw it over the grass”

“Just dump it all out?”

“Well you’ve gotta spread it around”

“Okay…”

Dean, with his little bucket, exited the shed only to be faced with a large group of very loud chickens. The chirping was so loud Dean could barely hear the laughing from Seamus as the Londoner tried to walk without stepping on any of them. After the first two throws the chickens began to peck at Dean’s feet, the boy tried to get away but neither running nor jumping up and down did the trick. Eventually he tripped and the bucket spilt to the side of him, the chickens went over him to reach the food while others stood on him attempting to pick up the pieces that had managed to fall on him. Dean squirmed on the grass until finally his friend stopped laughing. Seamus picked up the bucket and began to pour the seeds out away from his friend then kicked the chickens on Dean gently.

“How was that?” Seamus’s slight concern was overshadowed by the large, teeth-baring grin on his face.

“Oh brilliant, Just wait I’m gonna become a farmer when I grow up” Dean managed to find his feet again, with some help from his friend who offered a helping hand.

The goat was easier to deal with, since it’s winter the sheep have their huge winter coats so the creature stood out a fair bit. Seamus just had to grab an apple from inside and lure him out of the sheep field, Dean stood by the gate holding it open until the Goat had come through then he closed it rapidly. The slam of the gate seemed to not affect the animal in any way as he was chopping down on the fruit happily given to it. The goat was now blocked off from the fields and now just roaming around the garden area out the back of the house. Once the Goat was in, Dean sat himself against the stone wall, fiddling with the gloves kindly given to him by the older fellow.

Seamus was kneeling beside the goat, petting the animal as it was grazing on a small bush. Dean watched his friend, though he had a smile on his face he was constantly looking up and around. Hogwarts was easy, relaxed. They could spend hours anywhere in the castle, the deserted hallways, the overfilled library or even just sit by the lake laying back by the grass. Seamus was always himself, laid back and chatting away like nothing in the world could stop him, laughing until he couldn’t breath, when he finally caught his breath he would laugh once again. It seemed here the boy was stuck, the shell of a boy with just a smile.

“You wanna drink?” Dean tilted his head at his friend and pulled himself up using the wall, Seamus furrowed his eyebrow for a second then nodded.

“Yah, You want me to get it though? Like I am the host” Seamus looked like he was gonna get up but Dean pushed him over as he walked past with a little smirk.

“Nah you stay there and relax” Dean knew the drill when it comes to coming into a clean house, the boy kicked off his boots before coming in and luckily the backdoor led to a utility room, connected to a bathroom where he could wash his hands. When he came into the house the smell was amazing, it was a mix of flavours but Dean just knew it was something like a stew. Charlotte was in the kitchen cutting up various vegetables when Dean timidly walked in, “Hello, I hope you don’t mind I’m just grabbing me and Seamus a little drink”

Charlotte’s head shot up but she wore the same large smile as before, “Oh honey, help yourself. You’ll have to look around a little bit though as I’ve got my hands a bit full over here”

Dean peeked over as he passed with a little smile, “Smells amazing.” The boy began to shuffle through draws, getting to some glasses on his second guess.

The woman chuckled, a choppy and almost shallow laugh, “Yes anything will smell good when you’ve just come from the fields.”

Dean laughed but they seemed to be interrupted, the man seemed fairly young. Walking with confidence through the house, Charlotte's demeanour seemed to sink immediately, the boy either didn’t recognise this or really didn’t care. “Good afternoon, I’m one of the farm hands, Samson, You must be Seamus’s friend? Daryl?”

Dean laughed and shook the open hand, “Dean but close enough. How long have you been working on the farm?”

“Not even a year actually but everyone been so welcoming. Your mother was asking about dinner, Charlotte?” The man pushed back his dark red hair and smiled at the woman who was slamming her knife into her chopping board so harshly that Dean had to force himself not to wince with every stroke of the blade.

“Shouldn’t be too long now” The woman didn’t even look up, Samson left immediately and Dean followed shortly after.

The dinner that night was good, Samson didn’t stay that long but the Finnigan’s were joined with Mr. Johnson. Seamus sat beside his grandmother, Dean sat beside him and thankfully both of them were far away from Charlotte. The boy didn’t feel completely relaxed with her, she seemed a little passive aggressive. Paddy was brilliant though, he and Darren decided to spill a little about Seamus as a child. Dean realised the man knew about the wizarding world only an hour into the meal. Everyone was so welcoming and for a while everything seemed warm but something seemed to change when Charlotte stood up.

That night Dean and Seamus lay on the mattress, the Londoner lay with his elbow under his head and his gaze looking up at the stars through the skylight. The view of the stars were spotty, he could see the clouds completely shade the beautiful lights in the night sky. Seamus was the furthest away from the latch downstairs and he seemed to doze off pretty quickly but as soon as Dean moved the boy snapped awake.

“Christmas tomorrow, You excited?” Dean whispered as he turned to face his friend, their faces now only inches apart.

“So excited. Paddy will be around by the way” Seamus smiled but Dean could see from his eyes that he was tired.

“I gathered. Does he not have any family?” Dean meant this in a curious way, not at all spiteful as Paddy was a great man, certainly shining a light into this house. In fact, he seemed incredibly similar to Seamus, it was cute to watch Shay look up to this man.

“No, he never married and never had kids. I know he and my dad have been friends forever, when my dad found out about my mum's magic, he didn’t even wait a day to tell him about it.” Seamus smiled, it was small and his eyes began to flutter a little bit from his exhaustion.

“Oh wow, makes sense that they are super close then, Samson didn’t seem as close to the household as Mr Johnson there” Dean smiled but Seamus’s face dropped a little bit.

“Yeah…anyways we best get to sleep” The boy turned around, curling up to himself, Dean was unsure if he fell asleep or was just laying there. Either way, Dean dozed off after staring back up at the stars.

Friday 25th December, 1992

The morning was crisp, the cold especially brutal. Dean was half hoping for snow but it was so rare he knew it was impossible. The boy turned to find Seamus curled up by a window down by his bird's perk, his friend was already dressed. He wore some baggy jeans that seemed to be more pale in the front, he also wore a hoodie with his sleeves long enough to go over most of his hand. Dean blinked a few times then pulled himself up, Seamus finally noticed him shooting him a large smile.

“You should’ve woken me” Dean smiled and pulled the blanket around him some more, continuing to break this silence, “How long have you been up?”

“Since six mate, had to feed the chickens and the sheep” Seamus giggled a little at his friend's shocked face.

“What! You definitely should’ve woken me. Christ I didn’t even think of that, you guys still have to work.” Dean snapped around and grabbed his bag, shuffling around for an outfit.

“It’s fine, Paddy helped me out. We wanted my dad to have a lay in today.” Seamus was still by the window watching his friend until he began to change.

“Right okay…Shall we make breakfast?” Dean’s innocent question seemed to strike a nerve in Seamus.

“No. No that’s fine, my mother had this tradition to make a giant breakfast for the family and all that. She’d be a little bit upset, I think…” Seamus bit the corner of his lip as he looked out into the fields, when he turned he had a large smile spread across his face, “Let’s make them coffee though. They’ll definitely appreciate that”

“...I don’t know how to make a coffee” Dean laughed nervously but Seamus shrugged casually.

“Come on” He laughed and practically dragged his friend downstairs, it was certainly warmer down on the lower layers. As they walked through the living room to admire the overflowing pile of presents now resting underneath the tree, they heard a grumble, a low croaky announcement from the older gentleman who was slouching in an armchair that had been moved to face the fire.

Dean jumped a little but Seamus seemed all too used to this, “Thought you’d be knocked out by now from all that hard work”

“You know nothing about hard work, boy” The man tilted the cup in his hand over to the Irish lad on the other side of the room.

Not a word uttered between them but Seamus rolled his eyes playfully and took the cup from his hands, “Anything else for you? Cushion? Stall for your feet?”

The old man chuckles, a slow and raspy laugh that had him coughing for air eventually. Seamus stayed until the man’s breathing was back to normal then went and disappeared into the kitchen with Dean following behind fairly pathetically. Seamus was whizzing around the kitchen but once everything was by the kettle he waved his friend over to help. Paddy had his coffee black with half a sugar, both the boys thought it smelt horrifying but the man was content enough to drink it even when it was piping hot. Darren had his coffee with the slightest bit of milk and two sugars where Charlotte had hers with a fair bit of milk as well as two sugars. The boys stood proud of their work then Dean interrupted. “So are we waking them up or?…”

Seamus shook his head and leaned back onto the counter, “Nah they should wake up soon”

Dean nodded, “What about your nan? Did she want a drink?”

Seamus raised his eyebrow “Yes could you make her a glass of orange juice, I’m gonna see if she’s awake” The boy smiled at his friend and then disappeared into one of the rooms downstairs, Dean fiddled around the kitchen making both the glass of orange juice for his friends nan and also making him and Seamus a couple of hot chocolates. It took a few minutes for Seamus to walk through, his grandmother next to him walking steadily and with his aid. The woman wore a long nightgown, her eyes were half closed probably from exhaustion but still her smile tweaked up into a small smile. Immediately she was directed to the table, a tower of cushions layered up onto the wooden chair already with an indent to where she was to sit.

Dean placed the orange juice close to her while Seamus was grabbing the blanket from the living room and laying it across her shoulders for her to cuddle up into as she waited. At this point Darren was climbing down the stairs, Charlotte following closely behind. Darren had a pair of boxers with a plain dark grey dressing down almost done up fully whereas Charlotte had a pair of loose fitting trousers on with a crisp white dressing down hugging the rest of her body, the woman's hair was up in a messy bun.

“Good morning” Darren stayed in the living room for a while, greeting his friend while Charlotte walked straight through to the boys.

“Merry Christmas! Let’s get you some breakfast shall we?” The woman took Seamus’s head as he sat beside his grandmother and guided it closer to herself so she could kiss him softly on the side of his forehead.

“We made you coffees, they’re just on the side” Seamus called out to his mother while lifting his feet so that they were hanging onto the edge of his chair, the boy hugged his knees looking at his friend who was sat opposite to him on the table.

“Aww aren’t you two sweet. I’m gonna whip up some pancakes quickly for you two then you can open your stocking presents in the other room while we finish up eating, okay?” The woman was now out of sight with the door open, her voice carried through fairly quickly. The boys called back to her and spent a while speaking to Seamus’s grandmother, as it turns out she could speak very little English, the words she could say were broken but she was so happy to try. Dean was patient, celebrating with his friend any word she spent a while looking for. Eventually the men came in from the other room, settling down on the table talking about work things. Charlotte gave the kids their food first, they wasted no time scoffing it down then rushing into the other room for presents.

Seamus and Dean sat crossed leg, in front of the fireplace facing each other a little bit at an angle. The Londoner was thrilled to see an extra stocking hung for himself. There they sat, before a beautiful radiant fire that snapped occasionally as it destroyed the mountain of logs stacked upon it, wrappers already beginning to crowd the open space of the front room and two boys with Cheshire smiles on their faces as they slowly worked through the numerous trinkets shoved in the sock. The boy’s were given similar things, chocolates and sweets which were a good mix of both muggle and wizard variety. Some little puzzles and games, Dean was given a pack of charcoal pencils with a handwritten warning to save using until he reached his own house which made both the boys laugh. Seamus was given a little nerf gun which was already unwrapped and loaded which cost Dean. Things like that was what they began with but both reached the end only to pull out a small book with a plastic vibrant blue cover. The two second years were gifted pocket-sized bibles, Dean added it to his pile of gifts, smiling gratefully at his friend who was more focused on the other toys in his pile. Seamus just seemed to ignore it, avoiding all eye contact at all with his friend.

The adults took what felt like forever to wander in, the older woman sat in her usual chair except now it was turned to face the Christmas tree. Dean was positioned closest to the tree to hand out presents while Seamus sat in front of his grandmother to help her open her presents if needed. For hours they sat, taking turns opening presents and doing mass refills of hot drinks. The adults got fairly boring gifts, alcohol, perfumes and clothes whereas Dean and Seamus either got toys or nicknacks along with the occasional jumper. Dean was overjoyed when he found out his parents had sent a couple of his presents to the Finnigans beforehand and almost cried when unwrapping them. The first present was around 5 Marvel comics which caught the eye of Seamus as well. The second was a broomstick, a fairly good make but not a completely up to date one as they’d probably worked out he’d almost never get the chance to use it. Either way, this made Seamus smile and fuss over it, apparently his had grown fairly rough after its good use. The years had battered the bristles, they’d been distorted out of shape and the stick part had been scratched and beaten over the course of a long time.

Dean was shocked to find out that Paddy had made him a gift, it was a handcrafted wooden sculpture of a Fox which was crouched slightly, looking lost. It was a gorgeous piece of work with so much detail, especially in the creature's face. The old man grunted carelessly when the young guest showed his appreciation but after having seen Seamus's wide grin and waving eyebrows Dean felt even more thankful. Charlotte and Darren also got Dean some presents, some were toys and then a large jumper that matched one they’d bought for their son with only a difference in colour and size. The two of them also got him a red and gold cat bed for their dorm room, it was beautiful and had a toy that dropped down from the roof of it too.

The whole morning until 11 was spent in the front room, before the fire with blankets wrapped around them and the discarded gift wrap seemed to cover every inch of the floor. Seamus and Dean helped pick up the wrapping paper and chuck it carelessly on the fire as Charlotte disappeared to begin preparing the Christmas dinner. The presents were all carried to Seamus' room where they unwrapped and spent time playing with them. Eventually they changed out of their pyjamas and put on their matching jumpers and pairs of joggers.

“So…You wanna take your broom out for a spin?”

“What? Won’t people see?”

“Nah it should be fine, I do it all the time. As long as we don’t go through a town we should be fine”

Dean took a moment but it seemed too fun to turn down. The two of them practically ran down to the ground floor of the house, heading straight to the kitchen to ask the boss of the house for permission. Charlotte took a few moments but agreed only if they stayed fairly close to the ground and to stay away from any populated places. As populated as it can get in the countryside. Paddy and Darren were sat on spider infected fold-up chairs that were placed outside the gardens, they sat looking out towards the fields with beers resting on their thighs or on the floor. Seamus ran out to a small shed in one of the fields to dig out his broomstick while the two men just watched, Dean stood by the door awkwardly until addressed.

“What’s he doing lad?” Paddy questioned the young man with his focus still stuck on Seamus trying to unlock the shed without breaking it.

“Getting his broom” Luckily that was all that the boy needed to say for both the men to just nod and continue their conversation. Seamus came running back up the field, broom in hand, only a few minutes afterwards. They took off soon after.

Dean was fairly stiff on the broom at first, it had been a while since they had been on one and this one was different from the one the schools supplies. While the muggleborn was familiarising himself with the broom again they circled the masses of fields that surrounded the house, Dean was wary of the animals but not a single one seemed to be distressed by it. Eventually the peaceful and dreamy fly around the farm turned into a bloodthirsty chase in which Dean was leaning so forward on his broom, the boy was afraid he’d topple over the edge.

They flew fairly close to the ground, zooming past hedges and scraping just above the long crop fields, sharp turns in a small grove of beautiful trees that seemed to stretch far above with all its leaves bunching at the top. The sun was lucky enough to be shining, disturbed only occasionally by clumps of clouds that were pulled so slowly across the vast sky. Dean had the largest grin on his face, the boy's lips and eyelids felt so much pressure from the wind it was as if they were to be pulled back and the rays of sunlight stabbing right into his eyes forcing him to squint but still he pushed forward. Not much could be heard when he was going so fast, so far from the ground for during this flight they did feel more confident to push further up from the surface of the earth. The smell was crisp, as was the cold but even shivering could not ruin this moment for Dean. The boy's mind was clear, the only voice he could hear was Seamus’s as he called out to him from a distance, the world seemed so small from where he was but it was also so grand. Seeing the numerous fields, grasslands, meadows and groves, not to mention all the animals he’d spotted, he swore he also managed to see a fox from where he was. All this made him a little jealous of Seamus, who could come and take in this glorious view whenever he so pleased while Dean was forced to return to the city where most of the plants went towards the parks which were treated with little to no respect.

It wasn’t too late when they returned, dinner was almost done and everything plated but Dean went off to call his parents before they were to eat. “Hello?”

“My love! We heard you went out on the broom, is it any good?” The boy could easily recognise the voice of his mother, it was high pitched and dramatic but the squeal of his father in the background was much more distinct. Somewhere, behind the crackling of the phone and the humming of the distant connection, he could hear some of his sisters speaking quietly. From what it sounded like it was fairly early for them.

“Yeah and oh my god, mum it was so cool. We raced around for ages, went down to some meadows and through some trees, it’s so beautiful down here” Dean spat, barely taking in time for breath as he gripped the phone harshly, “Thank you so much!”

“We are so glad you enjoyed it! How did the Finnigans enjoy their gifts?” The woman sounded a little unsure about herself for the last question as she knew very little about the couple.

“They seemed to like it, Charlotte is a very active baker so she had a read of the recipes and Darren went on a tangent about how much whiskey is better than vodka so win win for both really. How’s the holiday going?” The boy had now calmed himself, lowering his voice a little and being mindful of the other people in the house.

“It’s fabulous sweetie, honestly but I reckon it would’ve been more enjoyable with my favourite son here with me” The next sounds were so distorted, Dean was stood at the other end of the line, bewildered until he heard Ian's voice clearly at the other end, “We miss you very much! Sadly we can’t stay for long, our taxi has just arrived. Have a lovely Christmas dinner, be good! Miss you loads! Love you bye”

The goodbye was rushed but Dean didn’t care, he said his quick goodbye and returned to find he was right on time. Charlotte was plating up the meal now and the two kids were hustled into the kitchen to help her serve it all up. Dinner was cheery and upbeat, sharing tales and a few more questions about Dean were asked. Paddy and Darren asked a little bit more about the school and magic, the young muggleborn thought they’d know a far bit since they lived with a witch but apparently not. Though now that he thought about it, he’d not seen her to a spec of magic since being there. Dean wasn’t lost to his thoughts for long as another question followed, one he was happy to answer with a smile and a cheery hip to his voice.

The boys fell asleep early that night, too exhausted from the day and content with all their presents and the delightful Christmas dinner.

Saturday 26th December, 1992

Boxing day was usually a day of relaxation, however it seemed the farmers were right back at work. The two wizards wrapped up warm early that morning and were greeted with giant hot chocolate that morning. They were put straight to work though. The men thought if they got all the work done before lunchtime they would take the boys to town as everything had begun to open again. So both children worked hard, dealing with the chickens and then helping feed the sheep and do checks on all the gates. Paddy and Darren checked all the cows and dealt with them then left it up to another farm hand to do the milking throughout the day.

Dean was delighted to visit the town once more, when driving through he didn’t see too much of it and wasn’t really able to go and see anything. The men walked around with them a while, showing the Londoner all the historic stuff and attempting to tell him made-up stories that he’d believe (without Seamus’s stupid smirk, he probably would have). When the pubs opened at noon both men went in and told the boys to join them once they were done. Seamus didn’t waste a second dragging his friend into a sweet shop, it was a very old-fashioned one with humongous clear glass jars of lollies that were stacked against the wall behind the counter. All the other walls were the same with a variety of sweets. The boys brought a few then moved on to an antique shop where they fiddled with all the old contraptions and whatnot. Dean managed to purchase a glass vase, it was tall and twisted throughout the top part with intricate flower designs added to the base, it was supposed to be a Christmas present to his mum but it may have been delivered a little late. Next they went into toy shops and spent ages looking around, pressing all the buttons to animate the toys and calling out the ones they recognised from popular TV shows or comics.

The two of them spent hours in town but it wasn’t too large. Once they did a lap of all the interesting places they returned to the pub to sit and have a drink, waiting to see when they were to leave and go back to the farm.

Charlotte was doing laundry when they returned, faffing around the kitchen organising all the washing while one machine was already spinning a load of clothes around. Whether to wash or dry, Dean had no clue. The woman seemed happy that they were home, didn’t blink an eye to the strong smell of lager from her husband's breath as they kissed nor the fact the boys had brought home a good few bags that they immediately ran up to Seamus’s room. After tea it was their mission to get all the Christmas decorations that were mostly centred in the front room, down and back up to the attic. The tree had to be done by someone who was over 5 feet tall. Despite this small setback they managed to get all decor and decorations from the tree and just dotted around the room, packed away and upstairs to neatly pile in the corner of the attic. For all their efforts, Charlotte served them up warm brownies and ice cream.

Paddy left late that night and Seamus’s parents were snuggled up in the living room with glasses of wine, so the boys were in their room sitting closely beside each other next to the window commonly used for his owl, who was out at the time. The boys had a blanket that went over both the boys shoulders, it was so cold in the attic that every breath they exhaled had a puff of steam that ploughed into the window only to fog up the glass. The two of them were facing the window, sat crossed-legged with comfortable overlap. Dean could feel his friend shiver as the cold breeze began to filter through the cracks of the window. But neither of them moved.

Sunday 27th December, 1992

Dean reached across the mattress only to find no one there. The boy looked across the room and again no one was there. Across the whole house, still no one found. It wasn’t until he got dressed and went out into the fields, stomping across all the muddy spots that he’d found Darren who was herding the male cows into a different field.

“Alright lad?” The man barely even looked in Dean’s direction but shouted across the field in his direction.

“Yeah, Where is everyone?” Dean stopped in his tracks, still wary about the cows and not wanting to do anything that could sabotage whatever it was that Darren was doing.

“Church mate. You alright to do the chickens?” Darren actually stopped and looked at the child for this one, although the chickens were a fairly easy job. Dean was still only 12 years old and with little experience.

“Yeah” Dean nodded too, Darrens smile was hard to spot from the distance but the thumbs up he waved wasn’t too difficult.

Dean went back up to the top field, collected the food and spread it across the grassy area outside their coop. While the birds were busy pecking at the seeds, he went in to collect the eggs, making sure this time to remember gloves. The last time the hens that were on their eggs made sure he couldn’t feel his fingers once he’d left. The boy collected close to forty eggs and then brought them inside. There was some sort of station that meant they were to be sorted into sizes but when moving every single egg he had to press a torch against the shell to make sure it was not a fertilised egg. It sounds painfully long but it only took Dean ten minutes. After that, he went and added more hay to their nesting areas and then went to feed the goat an apple. With nothing left to do, he decided to help out by putting away some equipment that was lying in the garden, since he didn’t know where most of it went he just ended up organising most of it. However, he did see Seamus’s broom still out, leaning against the counter in the utility room.

Dean took it down to the small shed a few fields down, the shed was slanted almost as if it were going to topple at any minute. The lock and hinges were coated in a thick bronze rust that made it incredibly tricky to open. Thankfully the keys were hanging from the lock so all Dean had to go was shimmy the key until the lock clicked and the padlock free to menover out. When the boy opened it, it seemed just as neglected as it looked. The shelves were barely standing, one was knocked down hanging onto the walls of the shed by a singular nail on one side. The walls had various scars and battle wounds that ranged from cuts and scratches or dents in the moulding wood. Dean put down the broom, leaning it in a corner of the shed. Something about it seemed so eerier but it truly did just seem like a run-down shed.

Dean was shown around by Paddy and Darren, since he was too young and afraid to work with the cows he just followed the men around until eventually Seamus came running out of the house. The boy's hair was brushed and neatened out and his clothes fit him normally. Darren told the kids not to worry about the farm today and instead just go and enjoy the day.

Instead of returning to the very warm building that was filled with comfort and food the two wizards decided to go the opposite direction and into a little grove of trees, Seamus believed it was little but Dean followed wide eyed and in a trace of shock. It seemed to just go on forever, the little light that shined down onto the earth seemed to be blocked by the clouds of leaves above them leaving them small specs of light to navigate.

“So how was church then?” Dean climbed over a fallen tree and followed him into a small clearing that had a large old tree in the centre. The branches of this tree stayed close to the ground as it didn’t have anything blocking its sunlight so standing tall doesn’t make much difference to it.

Seamus had already climbed up a few feet by the time Dean had come along but answered while pulling himself up to another branch, “It was alright, a bit boring. My friend Mary was there though so it wasn’t all bad, you know”

Dean was now standing at the base of the tree looking up at his friend with a little smirk, Seamus was about halfway up the tree resting on a thick branch with his feet stretched across the bark. “Mary? Oo la la”

Seamus didn’t reply to this, he laughed but it was a bitter and shallow chuckle that seemed to just drift off. Dean noticed and almost cringed at his own joke, climbing up took a fair bit of time as the boy was shaking the higher of the ground he got. The boy made sure his feet were in a secure position before climbing up further and when he got closer to Seamus the boy reached out a hand to help Dean up to a branch close to the one his friend was on. “Sorry, It was a bad joke-”

The boys had never spoken about girls really, Dean had never been interested and as far as he knew Seamus wasn’t interested either. Maybe they weren’t as close as he thought. Seamus shook his head at his friend, “No I just…” The boy laughed softly as a couple of tears began to run down his face, his legs began to curl up closer to his chest, “Sorry I didn’t want to cry” Dean waited for him to wipe away his tears using the sleeve that he’d pulled down to his palms, “I don’t like girls”. Dean could see it on his face, the uneven breathing and his scrunched up face that he was holding back tears.

The Londoner climbed onto the same branch, facing his friend with eyes that had begun to well with water, “Like…not at all?”

Seamus shook his head, burying his head into the arms that were crossed and balancing on his knees. It was an awkward position, with both of them balancing not to fall off but Dean leaned over to his friend wrapping his arms around him, “Don’t cry. It’s fine, it’s normal”

This only seemed to make the boy cry harder but his legs dropped down where they hung down from the branch and he was now hugging back his friend, resting his head on his shoulder, “It’s not fine. It’s not even normal. It’s disgusting and stupid” The boy pulled away, the sadness in his eyes now shot into a panic, he was holding Dean’s arms so tightly they would definitely bruise but without knowing, “If my parents find out-” A tear slowly rolled down his cheek, only to drop onto the rough bark of the branch, “If my mum…she’ll kill me, Dean”

“Oi, she won’t know, she doesn’t have to” Dean pulled his friend back into his arms and tightly hugged him, “It’s not disgusting and who's to say what is normal or not. If you like girls that's cool, if you like guys that's also cool.”

“But the bible-”

“The Bible was written in a time women were sold off to men by their fathers at the mere age of 12, at best. Some of its words are contradictory but if I remember correctly it preached love and honesty. So love who you are and be honest…in your own time”

Chapter Text

Saturday 2nd January, 1993

The few weeks that Dean had off were not wasted at all, the boy bought Seamus some birthday presents to gift him throughout the year and a few smaller presents for their classmates too. The boy knew full well that he would not be receiving as much from his friends but he didn’t mind, the wizard enjoyed giving more than receiving. Watching someone's face light up because of something thoughtful you’d done for them, it warms his heart. The Thomas’s are financially very lucky so Christmas that year was not just the few gifts Dean had received at his friend's home but instead, they redid Christmas morning the morning they’d all come back. Hot chocolates were scattered amongst the room along with wrapping paper that had been scrunched up into balls and discarded sellotape that had tangled itself. Dean was given clothes, some more art supplies that reached more into sewing than painting which was an interesting change and tickets to a football game that year. Tickets for him, Pam and a friend. No one was surprised when he began to scribble down a barely readable letter to Seamus as soon as he stopped bear-hugging his mother.

The boy had been home for a few days now but not long enough as he was due to leave the next day. Back to school. No matter how many times he does it, Dean always feels so woeful the night before. The young wizard was sitting on his windowsill, legs crossed with sewing equipment bundled up on his lap. The boy was looking over an open book placed in front of him, attempting different styles of stitches when a gentle knock disrupted his focus.

“Hello?” He paused what he was doing, leaning his hands down onto his thighs holding everything tightly in place.

Pam walked in, a large smile on her face, she’d come back from a short few hours at work. The woman had wore a vibrant blue suit, she was never scared to stand out, her confidence scared him sometimes. With no space on the windowsill, thanks to the unhealthy collection of thriving and varied plants and the only spare chair filled with discarded clothes and paperwork piled up. Instead, she chose to sit at the end of his bed after kissing the side of his forehead, “How was your day?”

“Alright, yeah. How was work?” Dean started to place the needle and thread on the side along with the scrap fabric he was working with, turning to face his mother more. The boy wanted to talk to her, he’d been dreading it all day like a weight on his heart. Now he was just relieved to get it off his chest.

“That emergency wasn’t as urgent as I’d thought, my colleagues are just di-idiots” The woman flung one of her legs over the other and leaned back, getting comfortable, “Dad says you’ve been quiet today. You okay?”

Dean hesitated for a moment, then peered over her figure to the door ensuring it was closed, “There’s something I don’t understand, why do some people not like gays?”

The woman took a deep breath, slowly moved her leg back over and leant slightly more forward towards her son, “Well that’s an unexpected question…I think some of it stems from twisted religious beliefs, claiming that God meant for man and woman to be together and that same-sex relations are a sin. A lot is just bigotry, the older generation not being as open-minded and accepting as the newer generations. Traditional values of women being the housewife and men being the breadwinner all fall apart with same-sex couples, that’s why I think people hate them so much. That help at all?”

Dean nodded slowly, his gaze drifting around the room, “Well yeah but I still don’t understand..why? No, how can people still think like that?”

Pam smiled, a warm smile that made her push from her seat and hug her son with a deep sigh, “I’m not sure love, I hope that people become more educated but here we are. I’m just glad I’ve raised such a lovely young man” The woman kissed his cheek and when she backed away, the boy could see tears form in her eyes.

“Thanks mum…I was just wondering” That was all Dean had to say for his mother to drop it, no questioning look or side comment. The two of them chatted a while longer, about how he was nervous about returning and how even she was concerned with all the threats to muggleborn children. The school sent out letters to inform parents that the threat was aimed towards muggle-borns and half-bloods but that they were working profusely to resolve the issue. Dean thought many students will not return after the Christmas break but he wishes to.

Sunday 3rd January, 1993

For the days that Dean had been absent from his home, Seamus felt uneasy. At least when his friend was here, he acted like a shield that protected him from himself. When that shield disappeared, doubt and worry flooded the poor boy's mind, every nerve in his body was overwhelmed, not to mention the thoughts that circulated throughout his mind.

Anytime his mother looked at him, it felt as if she could see straight through him, like she knew. Tears would well in his eyes so most of his holidays were spent hiding, away from his family, his friends, the community as a whole. From Dean especially, the letters that were sent back and forth were often delayed by Seamus. He would reread them for hours, huddled in the corner of his bedroom consumed in the darkness of the attic, obsessing over every single word displayed on the paper. Taking into consideration the topic, the word choices even the way it was written. All for the smallest of signs of distance or hesitation, he would be infatuated over the slightest possibility of disgust or repulsion from his friend.

The boy did not enjoy the days over Christmas, meals were delivered to his room for the most part, water was offered occasionally and the only time he left the farm was for church. Every Sunday he went to that church, spent most the time looking down at his lap wondering if there was a thing as god, whether or not god condoned who he was. The woman sat beside him, who cared for him, who birthed him, certainly felt as if it was not god who condoned them but instead the devil himself. And she was not quite in voicing these opinions. However this was not what began to tear Seamus’s heart in two, it was when the various other people around the room would nod and laugh, agreeing to their fullest extent. Seamus watched them, watched his mother look down at him disappointed with the way he did not agree, the way he just stood and watched hiding the revolted but sorrowful feelings that he so wished to reveal.

Many worried about the state he was in, many but not all. Darren, his father, was the most concerned. Every morning he would go up into his son's bedroom to drop off breakfast and a large bottle of water, the man would stop and talk to his son for at the very least half an hour but with little to no response depending on how the boy was feeling. His grandmother did not remember the last time she’d seen him but could remember that it had been a while. The woman was far too frail and exhausted to go up all those stairs so the explanation that Seamus was not feeling too well was enough for her to express her concern but then move on. Charlotte was only seen by her child on Sundays, where she would take no notice of her child's concerning behaviour but instead ask about his ‘little friend’ with a smile that made his stomach turn. Paddy didn’t seem too interested either, every once in a while he would show his face and ask Seamus if he was going to rejoin society but after a few seconds of silence, he left a chocolate bar and disappeared.

Seamus wished to find comfort in the family he did have, the visits and the talks but everything was a dull ache. It was as if he was being haunted, an invisible shadow of doom that ruined whatever hype Christmas infested.

Early Sunday morning was eventful, Seamus had managed to get a small bag packed and his father dropped him off some breakfast. A large bowl of porridge drizzled in golden syrup and chopped fruit. Clearly done himself with the strange assortment of shapes from the cut fruit. The boy had the half-eaten food by the latch as he curled up beside the window, his owl perched on his stand beside him enjoying the freedom he had now. It was almost seven in the morning when an unexpected guest peeked his head through the latch of the attic.

“Been in here a long time, buddy. You must be bored of these four walls already.”

Seamus didn’t look that way at all, the voice that echoed across the room was bold enough to identify immediately. Paddy had pulled himself up into the room, crouching down as he walked cautiously across the room. The man sat by the boy keeping a safe distance from the bird.

“You at least excited to go back to school? That kid seemed nice…the one with the smile and..um…what was his name? Daryl?-”

“Dean” Seamus looked up at Paddy, darkened eyes and the life inside him dimmed, “Not Daryl”

“Three words?...” The boy turned his head to turn to the window, “Seamus…I’m worried. You’ve been locked up in your room for days, not saying a word to any of us…what's wrong with you”

Tears welled in his eyes, the boy bit his bottom lip hoping the stinging pain would subside the hurt in his chest. Would one more person be so bad? Perhaps he would hug him and tell him it didn’t matter. That he was still loved and cared for. That being gay was not abnormal. It was not the end of the world. Instead he cried, the boy’s face crinkled up as tears began to fall down, crashing onto the dark wooden floor panels until he buried his face down into his arm. The man at first hesitated, watched as the child before him crumbled into a state. Eventually, he shuffled closer, wrapping an arm around Seamus, rocking him slightly until the violent sobs slowed to a complete halt. Paddy still had him in a tight hug, attempting to protect him even though all that haunted him was himself.

“I can’t…I…please don’t make me say-...look I’m fine” Seamus pulled himself away from the man, using his long sleeves to wipe away his tears and his snot.

A silence was shared between them, a knowing silence. The boy was trembling, a fear he had only ever experienced in the presence of his mother. The look alone, the look of a deer standing before the barrel of a gun was what made tears well in Paddy’s eyes. The man didn’t move, not an inch, not even the twitch of a muscle.

“Seamus…I think of you like a son..I love you like a son…I don’t want you to ever look at me the way you are looking at me now, there is not a person in this world I would sacrifice more for than you. Nothing you do…nothing you say to me could ever change that Shay and I mean it” Paddy looked sorrowfully at Seamus, the boy who had pushed himself to the other side of the room, curled into a ball against the walls of the attic. “Nothing”

The boy considered telling him, confessing it all and just letting all this weight that was crushing him rise. Anytime he opened his mouth nothing came out, his mind would rehearse what needed to be said but it was just crushed by doubt, fear too. “I just haven’t been feeling well…I’ll be fine when I come back…promise”

“Tell me what to do to help you…please.” Seamus just looked up at him gloomily, “I want you to write to me, every single day. Even when you are not feeling your best, you will drag yourself to your desk and write to me, a few words or a few pages, I don’t care. Every day until you are better”

Seamus didn’t have anymore to say, neither did his godfather. The two of them sat for a while, until the uneven breaths of the child had normalised and his cheeks now dry. The look was long gone but still Paddy kept his distance, he looked hurt and a little scared. They parted ways when the sun began to rise and the dim sun peaked in through the windows. Seamus said his goodbyes with uncomfortable hugs and small shallow smiles, his father wished him well while Paddy asked him to remember to write. The boy's mother didn’t look too pleased and the grip she had on his arm made him flinch but soon they were at the platform.

Children were dragged along by hysterical parents, either happy for their child or stressing about them. Seamus' eyes widened at the sudden noise, seemingly stunned as he had been all too consumed in silence for days. But the grounding grip his mother had on his arm was all too quick to be pulled away, when he looked back Seamus realised he was all alone. Charlotte had disappeared, apparted back home while he was left in the bustling platform.

Time seemed to slow in Seamus’s mind, the train was filling up more every second leaving loving parents standing a few metres from the vibrant red train waving goodbye to their beloved children. The boy climbed into one of the carriages, walking along checking each compartment scanning each one for his friends. Even better outcome was that he found an empty compartment away from the windows leading out to the platform, facing the wall meaning he didn’t have to see the parents as they waved off their children. Seamus sat by the window, bringing his feet up onto the seat with his bag next to him, it wasn’t long before he drifted off.

The boy didn’t feel the train move nor did he realise how long he’d been asleep for until a small jolt shook him awake. When he opened his eyes he saw Dean, sat peacefully opposite him with his notepad in his lap and a pen scratching on the paper. A small pit of fear began to stew in Seamus’s gut, an unexpected feeling that the friendship between them may have been dented by the secret recently shared.

“Good morning” As soon as his friend realised he was awake, a large smile stretched across his face, the boy discarded his notepad to the side leaving his pen on top.

Seamus, still unsure about the whole situation, dropped his feet from the seat and scratched his head with a confused look about him, “Hey. Where’s Neville?”

Dean smiled to himself and laughed as he looked to the door, “He’s with Harry and that lot” The boy turned his focus back to his friend with a small, more calming smile, “You okay? You didn’t write as much during the rest of the holidays…”

Seamus raised his eyebrow and in a split second decided against being honest, against discussing his concerns and instead just wished to pretend he was happy until eventually he was not forced to pretend. His normal, bright smile appeared on his face but his eyes still tired and droopy. “It’s been so busy at the farm you know, I tried but business is busiest in the holidays, you know. How was the rest of your holidays?”

Dean perked up in his seat, describing very happily to his friend how he spent the remainder of his days. The journey was always longer than they remembered but when they weren’t chatting away they were just sitting together in a comfortable silence. Seamus didn’t feel as scared as before, it had almost faded as nothing between them seemed fractured. Neville popped in for a few minutes to catch up with his friends but was pulled away by Ginny who wished to ask him questions about year one exams.

Hogwarts was just as welcoming as ever, with warm orange flames lighting up the ancient and everlasting halls of the castle. The carriages ran for over an hour helping the students back up to the castle and when the last student was finally sat, a full feast appeared on the table. The spirit of the room helped to cheer up Seamus as many people spoke brightly about their holiday, Dean especially. His friend was sharing with the other Gryffindors what Ireland was like, what the farm was like and the time they spent together. Dean described it in such a way Seamus didn’t recognise it as his home but he almost wished that the magical place that his friend had described was his home. The boy’s heart lifted when he heard the things Dean was saying, remembering the good parts of their time together over christmas as he had spent the rest of his holidays obsessing over a conversation he now deeply regretted having.

Seamus listened to everyone talking so happily about their Christmases, the presents they were given and how great it was to spend so much time with their families before coming back. He had never felt more out of place. As he was sinking back into a mood of utter despair Dean elbowed his rib and looked at him with a wide grin, “You know…I was really happy visiting yours. But I couldn't help but feel I imposed a little.” Before Seamus could interject, his friend continued, “My parents and I, of course, would love for you to visit London again. During the six week holidays, my mum feels bad that they didn’t get you anything for christmas”

Seamus laughed and shook his head, “With the amount of food your dad sent during the first few months, I reckon I don’t need anymore presents from your lot. But yeah I’d love that, still can’t believe you like living in that pocky city. Can’t escape the noise”

“You get used to it and eventually it turns into white noise.” Dean shrugged but was hiding a cheeky smile.

“Like how Ronalds atrocious snoring has finally turned into white noise” Seamus projected his voice down the table with a nervy smirk, Ron picked up on this as soon as his name left his friends mouth and a small bickering battle erupted between them.

First night back home, Dean and Seamus ended up spending a few more hours of the night on the windowsill between their beds. The dorm was still with everyone else sound asleep from the treacherous journey. Dean’s kitten was purring happily on the lap of the Irish lad as the Londonder had pulled out a sketchpad.

Monday 4th January,1993

An eerie feeling had a clear presence in Seamus’s mind, like an outer body experience which made clear this wasn’t real. The boy watched as his body moved, watched but not from the perspective of himself. In front of the fire the sandy-haired boy sat, the fire back at the farm house in Ireland with the scratchty carpet rubbing at his legs. With his grandmother's empty chair rocking softly by the window. Seamus was mesmerised by the golden flames, the ones that pranced on the logs spitting occasionally. Even in front of a source of absolute warmth, a coldness washed across the room. Seamus expected his mother. Instead he turned to find Dean, saddened and far from where his friend was sitting. Behind him emerged the other boys from the dorm, mixed emotions as he looked from one expression to the other. Confusion, horror and disgust. That’s when he knew. They all knew, they all hated him. The fire behind him began to roar, spitting great big chunks out. Seamus felt the pain as they seared into his skin, however he did not squirm but instead relished in it. Accepted the distraction from the looks that haunted him.

Noise around the room woke him from this horrible dream, the sound of water running from the shower, Ron's snoring, the purring as Dean petted rush and the chaotic continuation of noise Neville made every morning as he scanned his draws for things he may have forgotten. Seamus lay still in his bed, shivering from the cold winter chill that paralysed hoping someone would light the fire. As if Dean had read his mind, that very second he stood and threw some logs into their stove. Harry’s shower lasted but a few minutes more until the water was off. Ron was the only person left to wake up.

“Anyone else need to shower?” Harry called from the bathroom, Ron groaned as a response as the other two eventually replied no.

“Yeah I do” Seamus pulled himself up to sit as he quickly wiped away the few tears that had formed in his eyes, everything told him to just lay back down and wither as he did at home. Dean would probably not let him, plus there was no need to worry any of his friends.

This was not a quick shower at all, the boy stood in the warmths of the bathroom which was already filled with thick steam and turned on the water. Under the head of the shower, Seamus lifted his head so that the hot water ran down his entire body. Eventually it got too hot, burning his eyes. Seamus allowed himself to think back to that dream, to the conversation he had with Dean. Of course he doesn’t believe that his friend would betray him like that…but what if he did? What if the whole school found out? Or his mother? The boys mind was running in circles, it had been having the same discussion for days but never coming to a compulsion. Did he even tell Dean? His friend had not mentioned nor even hinted at it, perhaps it was a figment of his imagination. A delusion to convince himself that it was acceptable. That it was normal. Seamus grabbed his wand from the side and waved it in a small, sudden gesture.

“Accio bag”

The bathroom door was quick to open and slam back shut, Seamus had managed to catch the bag before it had hit the water. The next steps were a bit of a blur, time slowed but was also lost to him as it passed until in his hand was a small blade forged from his sharpener. After a few moments of having it hovering over his wrist, pressing gently before being taken off Seamus did it. The boy dug it deep into his skin and in a swift motion, sliced through his wrist. A deep cut but not fatal. Blood began to drop down into the shallow water at the bottom of the bath, quickly moving around the entirety of the water. It showed no signs of stopping, nor any signs of stopping. But that was not what he focused on, it was the pain. How it seemed to take over most other nerves in his body, as it spread up his arm and as the cut even began to throb. The boy's mind was cleansed of his mother, of his secret. It consumed him, a relief he had been searching for tirelessly. And he was very tired.

The water stopped, the red disappearing down the drain as more dropped down from his wrists. Seamus had seen enough accidents at the farm to know pressure slows the bleeding so for a while the boy sat on the toilet holding a dark-coloured hand towel to the injury until eventually the blood stopped. Heading back out with his uniform thrown on in a state of disarray with his t-shirt untucked and the bottom two buttons undone still, the tie shoved into his pocket to stay until a teacher asked him about it. Dean sat waiting on Seamus’s bed, packing up his friend's bag for the day. Seamus raised his eyebrow and stood staring for a few seconds, caught a little surprised.

“Here I thought you went off to breakfast.” Seamus crossed the room and pulled the black robe around his shoulders.

“Couldn’t abandon you, come on we’re already really late” Dean quickly gave his friend his bag and then grabbed his own, “We’ll only have ten minutes so quickly now” The boy wasted no time going out the door, Seamus followed obediently. Concealed away but not fully ignored, Seamus could still feel the stinging as they raced down the halls as the open wound rubbed on the cheap polyester shirt.

Everyone was already done with their food, plates were mostly empty, cutlery neatly placed on the side of the plate and the hall was barer than normal. The pair of Gryffindors came in just in time to see the other second-years get up from their seats. “You guys took forever this morning” Ronald's sour mood often lasted until lunchtime but was often phased out like more white noise.

“Want us to wait?” Neville smiled at his two friends, hovering by the seat but looking at the golden trio clearly wanting to follow them to get to class early.

“Nah that’s alright, save us a seat though. Don’t wanna be at the front for history, almost worse than attending the lesson” Seamus plopped himself down on the seat and quickly began to pile up the food on his plate. The boy got much of everything, scrambled eggs, sausage, bacon, toast, black pudding and even tomatoes. Almost a full English, pretty much was. Dean decided to get himself a large bowl of cereal and poured them both a glass of water. Seamus smiled, it was a small gesture but Dean remembered the little things. How Seamus hated orange juice because it made his tongue feel like it was on fire.

The two of them spent the ten minutes stuffing their faces, Professor McGonagall passed them a couple minutes before bells would ring for the first lesson. “Second bell rings five minutes after the first, it takes only a couple minutes to walk to Professor Binns's room. Do not rush the most important meal of the day, I would also hate to see two young wizards choke to death so early in the morning”

The pair of boys looked across at each other with small smirks on their faces and by the time the Professor had left the room the two of them were laughing hysterically. They did continue to eat through the second bell but were forced to run across the classroom, it paid off when the bell ran as they walked into the room. The Professor was not too pleased with their antics but the man could not particularly protest. Two seats were saved for them at the back, the bags of both Harry and Ron were piled up on it and taken when the two of them took their seats. First day back at school drifted and drifted, felt like normal with laughter and piled on homework but home. It felt just like home.

Chapter Text

Wednesday 6th January, 1993

Seamus turned over, absorbed entirely by the warmth accumulating underneath his heavy blanket. The injury on his wrist tugged, taking a few seconds to sting, the boy grasped at the duvet pushing it to hover over his arm. The boy took around the darkness of the room, seeing a slither of light allowed to invade their space through the bottom of the bathroom door. The Irish lad heard a little activity inside the room before seeing Neville sheepishly walk out, the two boys accidentally made eye contact just as the light was being turned off. It took a few seconds for his eyes to get used to the darkness by then Neville had walked over, taking a seat on his friend's bed.

“You awake?” The boy’s voice was a faint whisper, it seemed he had taken an interest in whatever Seamus had thrown on his nightstand, either that or he wished to look anywhere except the privacy of his friend's bed.

“Yeah. You okay?” Seamus pulled himself up, allowing the cold to push through the warm environment he had made. With limited sight, the boy could not see the expression on his friend's face no matter how much he wished to.

“Yeah…I just wanted to check in with you, to be honest, you’ve been spending more time sleeping. At first, I thought you were just catching up on sleep but it’s halfway through the week” Neville’s voice was shaky, something rich with concern for his friend. Making Seamus feel even more guilty for his saddened state.

Seamus laughed softly, cautious of the others waking up, “It’s nothing really, Dean gave me this book before he left and it’s ridiculously good. Rather than admit that he has good taste, I read it at night when he’s asleep but…it seems to have messed with my sleeping patterns” The boy kept his voice low, looking to his friend's bed beside them where he could see the outline of Dean. The ginger cat snuggled up close to his owner, purring loudly for all the students to hear. The story itself was not all fiction as he really had been gifted a book from his friend, however he had already finished it and admitted to Dean how delightful the book seemed.

Neville sighed deeply, Seamus could almost feel the relief rise off his shoulders. Neville had such a big heart. Almost making Seamus’s look shameful. “That’s a relief.” The boy pushed himself off the bed, “Night then” And with that said his friend returned back to his bed, presumably to continue to sleep. Seamus spent the night thinking, eyes wide open drying up from the cold air. It was a rough night, lots of tossing and turning. Even the cat, Rush, went to check up on the boy sitting in the centre of his chest probably to ground him.

~~~~~~~~~~

The morning came slowly but surely. The dorm was quaint, little talking and energy at an all-time low. Seamus cuddled inside his warm blanket, listening to the gentle footsteps as they delicately moved across the door, or the soft whispers that carried slowly across the circular stone room. The cat had begun to pester the boys either for his breakfast or just some attention, the ginger feline managed to nudge Seamus into sitting up. Neville was sitting on his bed scribbling frantically on a piece of paper while Dean was by his own bed packing his bag, Ronald was groaning loudly being pulled from his bed by Harry. The boy pulled down his long sleeves so he was holding them in fists in his hands, quickly he ushered himself into the bathroom wasting no time to speak to the others though he could feel his friend staring harshly at him following the focus of his gaze through the room.

As soon as he got in, the boy jumped into a hot shower and within seconds the room was filled with thick steam. Seamus closed his eyes waiting for the dried blood to wash off but before he knew it someone was banging on the door angrily.

“OI, SHOVE OFF. YOU AREN’T THE ONLY PERSON IN THIS-”

Seamus imagined that someone had thrown something to make Ron shut up but when he was finally dressed and opening the door up, it was revealed that his friend was now sitting on his bed scribbling down aggressively on a piece of parchment. The Irish had gone to his bed, to be greeted loudly with a meow that echoed throughout the room.

“Good thing we already did that potions homework, it seemed everyone else has neglected it” Dean sat on his friends bed, close to his cat and petting him softly while Seamus began to pack his school bag.

“Good thing and all. Thought he was gonna kill me” Seamus attempted to laugh but it came out drier and less enthusiastic than he’d hoped. The boy was distracted by the dull pain that sat just above his eye from where he’d been straining to keep them away, not even the hot water could wake him from his nightmare. These sleepless nights had begun to collect, efforts in his freetime to sleep were pointless extensions of his energy as any attempt to catch up would leave him in the dark, alone. All of a sudden he was back home, not wrapped up in his thick duvet in his own room but instead locked out in the cold. A shed that was barely standing, rotten wooden walls that were basically balancing to stay up as they battled with the wind. The rain would fire down on the roof, working its way through the crevices and down onto the sludge floor where Seamus had curled up.

Sleep seemed too foreign a perspective for now. Although he believed that with time to settle back in, he would return back into the young and free child he was the year prior. When looking at Dean’s face, the boy realised how cold his laugh was and the concern it seemed to rile up in his counterpart. “It’s so cold now. I can’t stop shivering long enough to fall asleep.” The laugh that followed this was full of life, in fact, it sounded more like a cackle than anything. Dean smiled softly then reached to grab his bag, Seamus got the idea and within minutes the three of them had made it into the Great Hall. Neville had left the other two as they were still attempting to sort their homework before the next period.

Conversations at breakfast were the usual, mostly nonsense with the occasional gossip which intrigued Seamus more than it should. Even Neville enjoyed hearing a good rumour or two but it was Dean who remained quiet. The boy would show concern or argue for the victim of this talk. Seamus liked to argue with him, though the two of them would never go further than a light-hearted debate. Dean would never push anyone further, Seamus would never push Dean at all. Owls seemed to drop in and out during the year, breakfast being the only meal that they were allowed to fly inside the hall to drop mail off. Dean would often receive letters from his parents, Neville would get postcards from his grandmother while Semaus owl would usually come in carrying a pretty leaf just so that she could receive some pets and a few treats.

That morning, Orla soared through the hall, darting through the other owls calmly flying in, gripped tightly in her beak was a small envelope. As it got closer it was clear that it was not in fine condition at all, other than being crinkled; it had also got mud stains scattered across its surface. Since Monday Seamus had been receiving mail more frequently than his friends, every single time the owl flew in holding a letter that wasn’t in pristine condition as Dean’s always were. Neville was predictable, the boy would look ecstatic and then become excited for his friend , eager for him to open in. Dean was more quiet, though he looked happy for his friend Seamus was never sure, always second guessing his friends motives. A terrible habit but one seemingly picked up recently.

Seamus felt like a stranger to himself, the paranoia that had engulfed his mind, poisoning it against the very thing that seems to be keeping it sane. The words his mother brandished on his skin through the endless screams now rising to the surface, showing themself. The boy felt his skin itch whenever his friend would lay eyes on him, feeling the boy’s gaze shoot straight through him. No matter how much he tried to hide, Dean would always be able to see right through his smile.

Neville was not as observant, the boy watched restlessly on his seat as Seamus took the letter gripped tightly in the talons of the owl. Orla was not quick to fly away, instead he stayed on the table, leaning towards the friend who sat beside Seamus shamelessly begging for his attention. Dean was more than happy to oblige, offering the bird a variety of treats laid out on the breakfast table. While he was distracted, the Irish lad decided to tear open the letter. He already knew who it was, Paddy had a temporary obsession with writing to the boy he had grown fond off. Seamus had mixed feelings, he was angry with being forced to subdue this as it was a burden upon his day as the man's worry was misplaced. Except it was not misplaced, the boy was falling apart and it was scary for him to know that someone had seen it, he felt guilt when knowing he was a burden to someone other than his parents.

‘Seamus,

Your owl must be sick of you, although she must’ve been bored perched up at that stupid school all day. They even have an owlery or do they just shove 'em all in cages. I see you’ve not asked about your family either so I won’t mention them too much. Though your father saw me writing and asked if I was dying. A very sympathetic man I shall say.

I’m glad to see you’ve been making an effort with school, can’t tell much but I just know you are squinting as you read this. My handwriting had deteriorated much throughout the years, if you can read this then I am very impressed, lad. You know you have sent two letters with neither being more than four sentences long. Three of which attempt to convince me that you are fine and need not write to me everyday. Still I’ll keep bugging you. Need to know you are awake enough to write a letter, just to be sure.

In your next letter I wish to know more about that psycho tree you have lying around in that school. I believe you once told me it had almost killed a lad during your first year, strange how they seem to keep it around.

Honestly not sure how we can keep up these thrilling letters with both our outstandingly extroverted personalities.

Until next time I guess’

The boy frowned a little at the letter as he folded it away back into the envelope. Neville’s excitement sizzled down into a spec of hope which seemed to disappear as soon as Seamus shoved the letter into his pocket after having squashed it down in a fist.

“Not the news you wished for?” Hermione peered across the table, with Lavender and Parvati.

“You really are quite bright, aren’t you?” Seamus’s bright smirk was the only genuine smile seen from him for a while, the comment received a few laughs and even a light hearted smile from Hermione.

Dean was still offering Orla pets while he watched his friend, a large smile but not a laugh, instead a sharp intentive stare aimed at his friend. Secrets are not kept long from Dean, Seamus did not realise why. Was it the boy’s good nature? Was it the way he was obvious to ignore the very clear signs? Perhaps it’s his willingness to help? Seamus did not know why, maybe it was his eyes. Gleaming so bright, glinting from whatever light it could find but still filled with an innocence Seamus had stolen so cruelly from.

Breakfast flew past but it was followed by a lengthy double lesson of potions. The boys were not too grumpy as each of them were to arrive with their homework safely in their bags, it seemed many others forgot about it and were not as fortunate as to remember before Snape so aggressively stormed in. As the Professor stomped down the columns of desks, the man's cloak flung up by the air, slapping many children as it passed. The tables were arranged so that groups of four could sit, Seamus and Dean were obviously joined by Neville and eventually Theodore who spent the first few minutes of the lesson copying down the homework from Neville. Hermione was the most confident person in the class, her head held high and a neat pile of parchment on her desk. Lots more than was needed. While she had caught Seamu’s eye, the boy saw as she looked back from the front table watching students scribbling with a nasty scowl rooted in judgement. Theory work was all that they did for two hours, after a long Christmas break most teachers would start the new year with more fun. Snape must’ve missed that staff meeting as any muttering he could hear was followed with throwing a book at the student, sometimes it missed and crashed into the walls whereas sometimes it whacked the child right in the face. Those who laughed were also victims of this abuse. Except Draco and his gremlin trio who sat right at the back spending the entire lesson snickering at others around the room.

“How long do we have left?” Seamus kept his head low so low it looked as if it was about to fall down onto his book however he was still waiting for the ink scribbled across his book to dry.

“Twenty minutes, recon you’ll last that long?” Dean had stopped the rapid writing with his quill just long enough to peer over at the clock, the boy seemed confident that he would not be assaulted for his rash behaviour. Either confidence or a lack of care.

Seamus pushed his book towards the centre of the table then rested his face on the chipped and battered wooden tables, sighing deeply, “Not a chance.”

Neville laughed, Theodore smiled but didn’t make a sound, far too scared of the consequences. A smart move as a book flew towards their table hitting Seamus’s shoulder with a dull thud.

“This is not your bedroom Finnigan, so I do not understand how you feel it is appropriate to sleep now. If I see you lower your head or even yawn once more, you will be sent to Professor McGongalls office immediately” Snape did not even look up from the sheets of paper he was marking, from the chaos of the piles of sheets one could only guess that it was a stack of first year work.

Dean waited until the rest of the class continued their work to lift his hand to his friends shoulder, the boy gave it a little squeeze then peered over his friends shoulder to see the work he had done. The handwriting shown on the parchment was fairly messy however the masses of work had almost made up for it, Seamus looked at his friend, more concerned with how close their faces were together then whatever he’d written down on that paper. Dean eventually sat back down, retrieving the hand he had allowed to rest on his friend for comfort.

The lesson did not fly by, in fact, Seamus spent most of the last twenty minutes watching the clock. Theodore and Neville managed to finish all the work, Dean had managed to do it all well before the others and Seamus convinced himself to take the time to recover from the professor's attack rather than continue his work. Snape did not check what each of them did but assigned homework to ensure they knew everything, as soon as they were dismissed the students were fighting to be the ones to leave first. The four boys walked the corridors of the school for a while, complaining about Snape and his lessons until finally they split up once break was over. Neville and Theo wished to spend a few lessons in the library to finish up their homework, however the other two decided to go outside of the castle for a while.

“Why can’t we stay instead? It’s gonna be so cold, it's probably raining too” Dean walked a few paces behind Seamus, probably attempting to stay warm as long as possible.

Seamus enjoyed the cold, it reminded him of the fields that surrounded his house or the attic that seems to do little to nothing about the elements outside during the harsh months of winter. “Go library with the other two if you want to stay warm then, I didn’t ask you to come”

Dean groaned but Seamus heard as he continued to follow just a few paces behind him. Outside was grey, no spec of colour at all in the sky just varying shades of grey, the rain wasn’t violent nor heavy but instead just a light shower. The trees were being pulled and pushed by the winds that would rush through the unprotected corridors and through the courtyard. Before the two boys exited the nicely protected and warm corridor of the castle, Seamus reached down into the pocket of his coat. A pair of thick ratty, worn-down gloves were thrown to his friend who smiled widely as if it was the greatest gift he had ever received.

“Wow how kind. I’ll freeze to death but my fingers will be good as gold” Dean smirked a little as he was pulling them over his hands that were already shaking due to the cold.

“Sorry, did you not want them?” Seamus attempted to make a grab for the free pair but his friend was quick to jump out of the way.

“Don’t be silly, my hands are my best feature” Dean put the other glove on, Seamus subtly watched and as soon as it was on the boy opened the door for the cold to smack them right in the face. The rain was gentle but the winds were not, they were so strong that it felt like the seconds years were to be wisped away. It did not take long for both of them to grab each other's hands, holding tightly to each other they struggled through the wind until they reached a battered stone wall next to a large tree. The roots grown more upwards causing the wall to slowly shift over time and with that, one side had begun to collapse. Seamus sat himself down on the ground, leaning his back against the wall. Dean however sat on the wall, one leg curved to balance on the wall while the other dangled down beside his friend.

Seamus curled his knees up to his chest, a desperate attempt to keep some of his body protected from the elements. Dean leaned back to lay down on the wall, laying one of his arms across his face while the other dangled down the same side that his leg did.

“Why does Snape never pick on you?” Seamus looked up, to see his friend shivering underneath the thick winter coat. The boy threw his hand up to whack his friend's leg moments after.

Dean laughed and swung his leg back to nudge his friend's shoulder, “I don’t know. I’m good at potions?”

Semaus thought for a moment but thought back to all the time Hermione was shot down harshly in his class solely for being smart. The boy never understood why. Perhaps Snape was just a bitter old man, the way he went after Ronald and Harry, Seamus believed it to be true. “Nah Hermione’s good at potions but still he treats her like garbage. He treats everyone like shit, except Draco and his lot and then there is you”

Dean only shrugged, they fell into a silence where all they could hear was the rough whooshing of the wind that was battling furiously against the trees and ancient walls of the school. “He was the one who had to explain to my family about magic and all that…it might have been that?”

Seamus leaned his head against his friend's leg, ignoring the soaked trousers pressed against his forehead or the raindrops that began to roll down his forehead and drop down onto him. Dean didn’t move. Neither spoke for a while either. For a little while the nightmares that had been stalking Seamus wherever he went had settled, the boy could finally close his eyes without feeling a million miles away from where he was that very second. Before he knew it he was fast asleep.

~~~~~~~~~~

When he awoke, the boy had no idea how long he’d been sleeping for. The winds had calmed so much that the trees were almost still, the rain had now stopped and the dark grey clouds that isolated the boys from any light from the sun were long gone. Between the patching of light grey clouds, rays of light would shine down tearing through the darkness that accumulated below. Seamus was still leaning into the leg of his friend who was now fast asleep as well, shivering from the cold and eyes fluttering from the varying bursts of light. Something about the situation caused seamus’s heart to work on overdrive, beating so furiously the boy was unsure whether it would stay inside his chest. Questions surfaced in his mind. Dean was the subject to most of these questions, whether or not he would feel Seamus would be attempting to seduce him? If he was just going along with this friendship because he feels sorry for him?

The fact Seamus had finally slept peacefully for the first time in weeks was completely out of the question as Dean knew his secret was eating him up inside. But why should it? Dean had been nothing but kind. Offering support and kind words. Seamus was the one who was tearing it all down. The boy whipped his head away from the leg, the rapid movement julting the leg so much Dean groaned then began to wake up. “What was that for?” asked in a low uncertain voice, the boy lifted himself up from laying on the wall and looked down at Seamus. The boy looked frightened, his cheeks slightly reddened and his knees curling tighter to his chest, “Hey, hey, hey. What’s wrong?”

“Do you hate me?” The Irish lad blurted out before he realised what a stupid question that was, “After the whole…gay thing…I didn’t really…” The sentence drifted off as the child was lost for words, regretting beginning this conversation as soon as his friend's face began to drop into a small frown. His eyes looking down sorrowfully on Seamus, pity that felt wrong, that felt undeserved.

“I do not hate you. I have never once hated you or even thought anything close. Quite the opposite. The fact that you like boys does not change any of this. It was very brave of you to tell me, I was actually a little jealous of how strong you are.” Dean slid off the wall and dropped down beside his friend, wrapping his arm around him tightly as a couple tears began to fall down his cheek.

Catching his breath had actually become difficult, anytime he caught it something would make him want to cry once more. The boy had cried enough in front of his friend, he didn’t want to cry anymore nor did he want to feel incredibly helpless anymore. Like nothing could ever help him so the only thing left to do is break himself down a little more. Rainwater mixing in with the fresh cuts that had begun to gather quickly on his wrists acted like a reminder to the lengths he went to treat himself how he thought he deserved to be treated. “P-please…don’t tell anyone. If my parents find out I don’t know what they’ll do” The boy looked up at the sky attempting to keep the tears that were swelling up in his eyes at bay. Dean pulled him in for a hug immediately, Seamus accepted immediately burying his face into his friend's shoulder.

“It is not my secret to tell. Nothing you tell me will ever go any further” Dean hugged him tighter, resting his head on his friends, “Are you okay? Ever since Christmas, you’ve been…it's like physically you're here but sometimes your mind drifts. I’m really worried about you”

Dealing is something unique to everyone, Seamus had always had a unique way of dealing with things. Often it was to pass on the inconvenience. As a child, if his parents upset him then he would just wreak havoc upon the house until he felt justice had been done. But this problem was not caused by someone else, blame could not be passed around. For the shame he felt in being himself came from everything, his family, the church and society as a whole. It would be very difficult to spite everyone. So instead he turns it on himself, believing it is his own fault for being like this, for being this inconvenient. Can’t do magic without setting fires, can hardly control his emotions or the stupid things he says and out of the blue, he’s a homosexual. Could it be any worse. Seamus felt as if it couldn’t. To tell Dean about the self-harm almost felt worse than coming out, at least he couldn’t help being gay. This was mutilation Seamus was willing to do to himself. The boy couldn’t see the heartbreak on his friend's face. He couldn’t handle it.

“I don’t feel like myself all the time. It feels like I’m just pretending to be myself everyday and it's so exhausting. Then I told you that stupid secret and I thought you’d be weird but instead I was weird about it all. I just wanna go back to when we were first years now.” Seamus had stopped crying, they had both pulled back from the hug but were leaning on each other as they sat leaning against the stone wall.

Dean looked woefully at his friend but forced a small smile, ignoring the tear just fallen from his eyes, “I don’t want to be friends with the pretend you, you don’t have to do all that when it’s just us. I’d rather be forced to sit out in the rain then hang out the rest of them only to listen to your fake laugh for hours”

“OI! You rat, I perfected that laugh” Seamus’s accusational screech echoed across the courtyard probably infiltrating the walls of the school.

Dean raised his eyebrow, his legs that were bent and leaning in the air collapsing slowly onto his friend's outstretched legs, “It’s terrible. Actually I’d go so far as to say it is horrendous.” After a few friendly wackes from Seamus, the pair of them began to laugh hysterically. Not the so-called fake laugh that Seamus had been using for weeks but a genuine laugh. Relief was now circulating his system, relief and gratitude. Seamus couldn’t imagine not having Dean, the boy was his everything. Still at the back of his heart, he felt guilt. Forcing his friend to put up with all his dramatics was selfish. What if he had better things to do? What if he just didn’t care?

It was so much easier to ignore as his friend was curled up next to him, using his body as a human pillow to warm himself from the chill that was still in the air. They did not stay out too long after that, they went to the dorm to change out of their soaked clothes and change into some dry ones after a steaming hot shower. Or bath for Dean who insisted on hogging the bathroom for close to an hour to relax in the bath like a middle-old lady with knee problems. Still Seamus kept much wood on the fire and sat right outside the slightly open door to still chat with his friend.

~~~~~~~~~~

Though it was not a feast, curry and rice was a delicacy at Hogwarts as it was not cooked often enough. The boys piled back into the nice and toasty common room to talk about nothing for a few hours before finally retreating back to bed. It was only then that Seamus remembered to write a letter to his dear friend Paddy.

‘Paddy,

The tree is called the Whomping Willow, I’m pretty sure it was planted in either the 1970’s or the 1980’s but it's been around a while. Students think it's funny to see if they can touch the base but it will literally swing one of its branches at you as soon as you are in reach. The thing is bonkers. Literally don’t understand how it’s still around because I’m sure it’s killed someone at some point. It may have blinded someone else too. Either way it’s a nasty thing. Not sure anything at all can get past it, I’ve seen birds ripped apart and anything else has the sense to keep away. Except us I guess.

The school has an owlery up in one of the towers, it is an open structure so the birds can come and go as they please. Someone cleans it regularly too. Don’t worry about Orla, she delivers for Dean as well as me and his parents write to him once a week if not more usually with parcels too. His dads a chef so they always send food in. Bit paranoid of them, like you of course.

Look at that. Much more than four sentences, don’t get too excited though old man. Any more deaths in the family and I might just lose my marbles.

Don’t rush to write back,

Your favourite farm hand,

Seamus’

Chapter Text

Saturday 6th February, 1993

The halls of the castle were decorated, mixtures of baby pink and bold red heart bunting hung across the halls with the flames of the torches glowing soft reds. However, that was a result of the Weasley twins' homemade concoctions that they seemed to have thrown into the fires. It had only been a few days and they had almost done all the lights in the school. The school was filled with the holiday decorations but none of the buzz, instead the halls were gloomy and filled with fear. Friend groups of mixed class were divided very clearly and no one dared walk alone, not even the purebloods risked it.

Seamus and Dean had no trouble sticking together, the tensions that intoxicated the hallways were a slight irritant that they dismissed and ignored. Harry, Ron and Hermione were scarcely seen by the other Gryffindors, if they were it was in a huddle whispering to each other and staying as far away from the public eye as possible. A wise decision, Dean thought, others at the school believed that he is the heir of Salazar Slytherin, that he is going around attacking muggle-born students. The dorm had become a safe space for Dean and Seamus for the last few weeks, the others couldn't understand fully how scared they were, no matter how they tried to. It was impossible. The two second-years hoped that the upcoming holiday may breathe a little more life and spirit into the school, making those pink flames burn just that little brighter and topics of conversation can divert from heritage or fear.

“Have you lot seen Professor Lockhart's room?” Parvati stormed into the room, dropping her books onto the table as she took the seat right beside Lavander, her sister Padma following sheepishly behind. Dean offered her an armrest as he crossed to sit on the arm of Seamus’s chair instead.

“Not since last week, why?” Seamus watched his best friend but then looked over at the Patil twin wearing blue, it was fairly uncommon for people to invite others into the Gryffindor common room as technically it’s against the rules but Padma was very kind. Besides, no one really wanted to separate the twins.

“He’s got a heart shaped mirror on his desk, during my lesson he looked at himself twenty-seven times. Also he has begun to clear off a wall of his room to hang the valentines cards he is going to receive” Padma shook her head while her sister sat at the edge of her seat, squirming as she attempted to contain her giggling. The laughter escaped her just as it did everyone else once the Ravenclaw had finished.

“I can’t imagine how insufferable he’s going to be on the actual day, can you imagine? Walking around dragging a bag filled with letters” Lavender smirked and leaned back in her seat, looking back at the book in her hands.

“Probably just a load of forgery letters that he’ll write the night before.” Seamus leaned back too, rolling his eyes. The boy thought their new defence against the dark arts teacher was no more than a joke and the opinion had become very popular as the year went on. The man was a useless teacher and his opinion on himself was much too vain for it to be at all healthy. Though Dean admired how much attention he took away from the doom and gloom that seemed to be haunting the halls, it seemed to be him that encouraged the various decorative additions to the castle and there were rumours that he had something especially planned for Valentines day.

“Only got a week left now, it’s a shame it’s on a sunday though.” Parvati pouted a little, staring at the fire, not noticing the confused faces the others wore.

“Why?” Dean finally added after a silence loomed across their group.

“Well if it’s during a school day they would either cancel lessons or we would literally get no work done during class. Waste of a day. But instead it’s a Sunday” The others nodded in agreement, slightly embarrassed that none of them had thought of that sooner.

“Don’t worry, it will fall on a weekday till we leave school now” Dean grinned widely knowing that the girls would groan and make a fuss while Seamus and Dean chuckled. In a year or two they would be going on dates and sending secret valentines, they would be way more interested in the whole idea.

Neville returned late that evening when the others had returned back to their room, he’d spent the entire day with Theo. Dean was sitting on Seamus’s bed with his sketchbook on his lap, his friend was beside him with the beloved cat rush curled sleepily in between his legs. The fire was made by Seamus who had actually stacked the logs, saying it had to breathe or something of the sorts. Harry and Ron were missing however that was not unusual as Hermione rarely went to the boy’s room as it was deemed a ‘horrible working environment’ after Seamus talked to her for almost two hours.

“Alright?” Seamus didn’t even look up from the creature purring incredibly loudly on his lap, the ginger cat wriggled and dived his head into Seamus’s hand as he was petting him.

Neville crossed the room, flinging his bag gently on the foot of his bed, “Yeah, what have you two been doing?”. The boy sat on Seamus’s bed with his back leaning back onto one of the wooden posts at the bottom of the bed.

“Nothing much really. Sat out with Parvati and Lavender and that lot for a bit, did some homework.” Dean shrugged slightly letting his gaze wander over to the friend in front of him instead of the artbook he was so clearly interested in.

“Oh okay, you excited for tomorrow?” A large teeth-baring grin appeared on Neville's face, Dean could feel the bed begin to shake under the pure excitement coming off of him.

“Tomorrow?” Seamus’s head slowly rose as his gaze went to his friend, brows furrowed and head cocked to the side, “I can’t tell if I’m missing something here”

“Twins are freezing over the lake for ice skating, how did you two not know?” Neville watched his friends turn to each other, trading looks as if they were communing with nothing more than a few subtle movements.

“Dunno” Dean shrugged and was about to add on to what he was saying however the friend beside him interrupted him with a large smile and much enthusiasm.

“We will definitely be going though, whats happening with the skates? Do they have some?” The boy speaking so fast and with so much volume the cat just beneath him curled up more with his ears flattening at the top.

“Sorry let’s take a moment, is there not a giant squid in that lake as well?” Dean looked between the two of them, those who sat with very blank expressions on their faces. The three of them progressed in their conversation, talking about various things until finally Harry and Ronald came in very late into the night. The sky was completely consumed by the darkness of the night with not a single light outside, not a single star nor a glimpse of the moon.

The five of them managed to pile up in Seamus’s bed, with Harry next to Neville and Ron awkwardly sat on the side. Hours were spent chatting away through the stillness of the room, the boy’s felt all their worries melt away and by midnight each of them were curled up in their beds. Except Dean who was still in Seamus’s bed. No words were shared between them and the room was void of any movement, the cats purring filtered through the room almost loud enough to mask the crackling of the fire. The boy’s stayed awake for only a little longer before Dean began to climb out the bed. Except his arm was grasped by the Irish kid sitting sheepishly on his own bed.

Dean didn’t say anything but instead got back into the bed, getting comfortable under the thick mattress while his friend did the same. Rush curled up between them by their chests, the vibrations of his purring trembling the whole mattress. Sharing a bed wasn’t the most uncommon thing for the two of them, during the first year they did it fairly often. Little sleepovers with snacks and scary stories which would bring them a night of dread. For them it wasn’t really strange, Dean often thought it reflected their friendship a lot. There for each other through the good and the bad.

Sunday 7th February, 1993

Morning came soon and it seems the one thing that separated the two boys did not stay for long, Dean woke up with his arm around his friend and his head was resting on his friend's back. The morning held a chill that seemed to infiltrate through the duvet making the child shiver almost immediately. Instead of getting up, Dean shimmed himself closer to his friend, to get warmer of course. The boy closed his eyes and listened to his friend's breath, feeling his chest rise and fall as he breathed. There was a tranquillity in the early hours that Dean enjoyed, the way the chill felt as he took deep breaths of the icy air, the freshness of his muscles and the way Seamus would barely be able to function. Even though he worked many days on the farm the boy is awful at dealing with waking up. He groans and spends his time stretching, then he will just stare off for a time allowing his eyes to adjust to the light. Dean pretends to be busy, packing his bag or adjusting his uniform but his eyes would often drift to his friend wrapped tightly in his warm blanket, battling to keep his eyes open for just a few more minutes.

This morning was no different, Seamus groaned as he woke, digging his face into the pillow as an attempt to block out all the light. Dean watched with curiosity as his friend pulled the duvet up to tuck nicely under his chin, he did not seem at all troubled by the arm that snaked across his body. The two of them were on their sides, facing each other. Brown eyes watched the way Seamus’s face scrunched up when light invaded through the miniscule gaps in the curtain. And the way his hands rubbed so roughly around his eyes. Or how the boy finally looked over at his friend, his gaze darted across Dean’s face, examining closely it seemed but it finally settled.

“You gonna hug me all morning?” Seamus’s eyebrow darted up then dropped just as quickly as he looked down to where the arm was had it not been covered by the blanket.

Dean shook his head scooting over closer, “Why? Can’t I?” Seamus’s face reddened slowly but his face remained the same. Until Dean began to tickle him.

Seamus squirmed, while his limbs were flinging about, hysterical giggling exploded out of his lungs, filling every inch of open space in the room. Dean stopped after a while but it left an opening for his friend to take revenge. This cycle repeated itself a few more times until they both collapsed onto the bed, breathing heavily, on edge in case of another ruthless attack. The noise in the room soon came to a crashing halt with nothing but the panting of the boys and sweet melodies sung by the birds. Dean’s head turned to look at his friend, looking down at his arms that were up by his head. Clinging to his wrists was a long sleeve top, the Irish lad had been wrapping up extraordinarily well this winter. Dean had not seen him in a short sleeve for weeks, though this did not at all bring comfort to the heart of this concerned friend.

“You two awake yet?” Neville’s voice carried from the echoey four walls of the bathroom, Dean pulled the curtain to peek out only to find four empty beds.

“Where’s Harry and Ron?”, The low voice flew through the dormant room only to ricochet around the bathroom walls.

“Hermione dragged them to breakfast early. Literally dragged them down the stairs. I can still hear the sound of Ron’s head crashing down on those stone stairs” Neville’s voice cracked slightly at the end, the two boys still in bed were puzzled whether it be from withholding laughter or tears.

The morning was quiet as the boy’s wrapped themselves up in as many layers as they could. Long sleeve shirts with sweaters over the top and thick coats to shield from the rain that seemed to shoot down mercilessly. The Great Hall was as it always was in the mornings, tranquil as the half-awake children attempted to keep the conversions afloat for just a little longer, the boy’s sat themselves down on the surprisingly full Gryffindor table. Everybody at the table was energised, the table was a fiasco of chattering and a buzz that seemed to leave everybody else in a rather confused state. Lavender was sat beside Parvati with Padma opposite, focused more on an argument occuring at the end of the table. The girls were wrapped up as well, bright smiled on their faces and their hushed conversation came to a halt when Neville sat himself beside the pair.

Seamus and Dean were not too far behind their friend. While his friends attempted to pry idle gossip from the pair of Gryffidnor girls, Dean turned to the Ravenclaw beside him. “What’s happening over there then?”, the boy looked aimlessly down the table to what he imagined she was watching.

“Not much. A little argument about who did what and who said what…some nonsense drama”, her gaze snapped away from the scene and instead fell into the bowl of cereal before her. Dean began to fill up the plate in front of him, ignoring Seamus’s hysterical gestures to try and get some backup from his friend.

“Ah okay. Are you coming with to the lake? I imagine those two are going as well,” Dean waved his friend off. Padma seemed to be a wallflower, someone who was always present but never involved. Dean had rarely spoken to her alone but in a way, she is part of Gryffindor as well, at the very least part of this group the second years seem to have formed.

Padma looked over at her sister, who was smirking at Seamus, probably why he was leaning across the table with a red face and raised voice. Lavender was giggling, holding her stomach because she was laughing so hard and then back to Dean who was looking only at Seamus. “Yes. I don’t think I’ll actually skate though…”

It took a little while before Dean’s attention returned to the girl, “That’s a shame, is it just not your cuppa tea or-?”

Before Padma had the chance to answer, a loud screech bellowed through the hall, muffling the chatter around them, “YOU MORONIC TROLL!”. Parvati was now stood with orange juice rolling down her skirt and into her shoes, a small puddle at her feet and darkened stains on her clothes. Stood in front of her rageful expression was Pansy, with a small smirk and empty glass held loosely in her hand.

“Honest mistake sweetie” The venomous sarcasm was accompanied by a rather one sided smug grin. Other Slytherins around her were sniggering at Parvati as well as the Gryffindors watching from the table, filled with a rage that was encouraged between the houses. Seamus had manoeuvred himself across the table backing his friend as she became redder.

“Bet that’s what your mother calls you, stupid little mistake” Parvati looked at the girl before her, shaking with pent up anger. Pansy’s face fell but before she could snap back a half filled bowl of cereal was now dropping down from the Slytherins head. The bowl balanced upside down on her head, the white milk that was once pouring down her silky charcoal hair was now slowly dripping down onto her clothes. Soggy and now clumpy pieces of cereal were infused with her hair and with a sour look on her face the Slytherin girl went to lunge for the Gryffindor but was pulled back by her friends as they watched Professor McGonagall strided between the tables.

“Would the two of you fools be kind enough to join me in my office?” Sharp as a knife the woman’s voice cut across the space that was still left between her and the small gathering. The Professor walked through not even looking back to check that the two girls were following. Of course they were.

It was only a twenty minute wait for both students to emerge from the office, both looking glum and as soon as the door closed an angry look was shared between them. Padma went to meet her sister, dulling the tension shared between them. The group of Gryffindors went sprinting through the dormant halls of the castle until they were outside in the crisp cold of that morning. Fred, George and Lee stood at various points of the lake, seeing the new Gryffindors appear on the grass as the boys waved their wands. The surface of the lake began to freeze with elegant swirling patterns exploring the lake leaving half of it free of the thick ice spreading across the body of water. The three boys went on first to create higher borders around the edge so no one disappeared into the water, the sheer amount of creatures that lived in the lake was fascinating but realising most were deadly was terrifying. Seamus was confident when stepping onto the ice. For good reason, the boy pushed himself around the ice like a pro-skater, zooming around the ice.

Dean was much more hesitant when getting on the ice, the Londoner went ice-skating only once in his life and it was in a proper ring where he had actual skates. This was much different and much risker, the ice that lay on the water was magically placed and the faith that the ice wouldn’t crumbe beneath his feet was held by the three single brain cells put into making this ice rink happen. Dean put one foot on the surface, felt it slip as he put his weight down and immediately jumped back onto the grass. At this point, many people had filtered on. Neville was with Ginny and Padma, as those three were getting the hang of it Luna was skating literal circles around them. Seamus floated over, the boy effortlessly halting to a stop just before the tips of his toes brushed against the grass.

“Need some help?” The smug grin was not subtle but the way his face creased around his smile and eyes lit up with joy was the thing that made Dean smile slightly.

“Oh how could you tell?” The sarcasm was thick but followed by a small breathy laugh, Seamus held out both his hands to Dean helping to stabilise him as he took his first steps onto the ice. The crushing feeling that the ice was going to break beneath him seemed to now have withered into a minor concern. “Wait wait wait. No no no no no no, wait!”.

Seamus only laughed lightly as he began to drag his friend towards the centre of the ring, Dean didn’t even move his feet but still his heart was racing. Everyone else was avoiding the pair so much Dean could hardly notice them, the grip on his friends wrists were so harsh the boys hands were turning a deep purple colour. Once in the middle they stopped, Dean straightened into a standing position and gave Seamus a light but aggressive wack to the shoulder.

“You wouldn’t have moved otherwise,” Unremorsefully the Irish lad shrugged off his friends concern and took one of his hands once more. “Come on. I’ll teach you this time I promise”. A small nod was enough for Seamus to begin to guide his friend across the ice, “Just use one leg to push and the other to guide and then swap them”

Dean was looking down at his friends feet as they moved, copying the movements he made. Balance was a key part, surprisingly as soon as he began to move it got much easier, though neither one of the boys let go of each other's hand. The stability of this minor touch between these boys meant a lot to Dean, though he did not know how much to Seamus. Gliding across the ice was terrific, Neville soared over to them at some point, showing off some little tricks Luna had taught him.

Eventually the Weasley twins cornered the two young Gryffindors with two large Cheshire grins. “You two having fun there? Gonna hold hands and skate into the sunset where you’ll spend the rest of eternity together.” The harsh sarcasm indicated who they were immediately, Fred was smiling much more with his gaze lowering down to their hands that were pale and intertwined.

“Leave them alone. It’s probably the first time this posho’s ever been on actual ice.” George’s smile was more soft when he looked at Dean then to Seamus who was already rolling his eyes but his grasp tightening. Dean’s first guess as to his friends reaction to this was to be scared, being gay was still a fairly new concept for humans, god knows what the wizarding world thought of it if they were still using fire as a source of light. Instead the short boy stood tall, looking right at the twins but holding onto his friend for dear life, leaning on him just a little bit.

“Not everyone can wisp around like a little fairies like you, just full of potential and oh so much talent” Seamus’s sarcasm was enough to have all of them sniggering, the twins stayed around for a little but they did wisp away after a while.

Skating in circles for more than twenty minutes was enough for Dean who shuffled himself to the side and sat on the grass, his feet still resting on the ice surface. Seamus laid himself down on the grass, turning from watching the clouds brush across the sky to watching the students skate around on the ice. Ginny and Luna were skating together, teaching each other little tricks and it looked as if they were creating a whole dance routine together. Neville was with Lavander, Parvati and Padma. These four were much calmer with their adventures over the ice, mostly just chatting away and taking little interest in whatever was going on around them.

The ice itself lasted a lot longer than anyone could imagine. Whether it be because of it being a Sunday or just the Professors not being able to deal with it today but eventually a tall figure came storming out to the lake. The two boys sitting on the outskirts of the situation couldn’t identify the Professor until he was right by the lake shouting out to the twins who were the only figures not trying to get to the grass and run out of sight. The twins, along with Lee, continued to whiz around on the ice until Snape got out his wand. That’s when they rushed to the side, jumping onto the safety of dry land just as the ice crumbled. The entirety of it shattered into various pieces, the smaller ones being crushed by the waves whereas the larger ones just bobbed up and down as the waves washed past.

When Snape was screaming and shouting at the trio of trouble makers, the two second-year Gryffindors decided to slip into the forbidden forest, just beyond the first few rows of tree then walk closer to the school. The fault of this will fall almost entirely down onto Fred, George and Lee so it was unlikely the teachers would follow this up, unless they did a speech about safety before tea tonight.

~~~~~~~~~~

The library was a popular place for the children to retreat to. Whether it be for the tranquillity or the knowledge that Professor Snape had not stepped foot in the room in his many years of teaching at Hogwarts. The second year Gryffindors seemed to have accumulated in one of the corners, Padma and her twin had snatched the window seat leaving everyone else searching for chairs or resorting to the floor.

Dean was sitting on the floor, the boy's back pressed against the hardwood chair legs and his neck resting on his friend's thigh. Seamus seemed to be flawless from all angles Dean observed from, the way his emerald eyes scanned his friend's face as he looked down and the way his whole face shaped itself around his huge teeth-baring smile. The boy couldn’t help but notice Seamus’s little behaviours, pit-picking at them in his mind. How he would pull the sleeve of his shirt past his palm or how the boy would itch as his forearm every once in a while. An unsettling feeling of anxiety hovered over Dean like a cloud of guilt, was he the reason Seamus was so fidgety? So anxious?

It wasn’t until later in the hall that the staff at Hogwarts made an official statement about the ice rink. It was mostly commenting on the dangers and concern, as well as the serious punishment given to the ‘perpetrators’ as if everyone in that hall didn’t already know it was the troublesome trio of Gryffindor. Heads all across the hall turned to face them, the three sat together at the far end of the Gryffindor table,graciously accepting the attention and in some cases even the praise. Ron was not pleased at all, not only did he miss the occasion but it also shone an even brighter light onto the talent and creativity of his brothers. Dean was unfamiliar with sibling rivalry but could only imagine the anguish that came with five older brothers all having done very significant things with their lives.

Snape was sitting at the head table, a rather dark angry cloud floating above the man’s head. The woman sitting just beside him had a small smile on her face and her hands neatly folded in front of her. The whole hall’s eyes avoided the headteachers as well as the two sat to the left of him, instead their attention was drawn to the well-known trio who were sitting smirking to the crowd.

~~~~~~~~~~

The week that passed on the way to Valentines day was an interesting one, teachers attempted to keep conversations for the lower years less focused on the upcoming holiday and instead just on work. If people weren’t talking about the beast that roamed the lonely corridors of the haunted castle, the conversations were whispers and gossip about who liked who. The ‘love’ in the air was instead a buzz of electricity and empty rumours that bounced from one ear to another. Seamus and Dean dealt with none of it, however it seems that even one bit older they were forced into it, the way the girls huddled in circles and the guys attempted to decipher what seemed like a completely different language.

Even when the friends around them were now obsessed with the ideas of girlfriends and relationships, Seamus and Dean attempted to stay out of it mostly. Dean was not in the slightest bit interested in any girls at school and he could confidently say that his friend felt the same, Neville was awkward around everybody equally. Last year many people speculated that something was going on between Harry and Hermione, that was again being picked up by various people. Seamus had heard Ginny and Lavender talking about it a few days before Valentines, wondering what was up with their little group.

Sunday 14th Feburary, 1993

Pink had managed to seep its way into their fireplace, it was the first thing that caught Dean’s eye that morning. While everyone lay sound asleep recovering from there late Saturday night, the Londoner collected his sketchbook and pencil then wandered the halls. The people in the paintings were holding flowers somehow, eyes watching his every step but a smile that paired alongside it. The only place that Dean wished to be at that very moment was the potions classroom, deep into the dungeons was the icy isolated room. When Dean pushed open the door he allowed a slither of light inside, enough to see the dust particles sway and accumulate in the air.

Candles in this room were untouched by the influence of the Weasley twins, with the flames glowing their usually golden colour. Dean carried one of the candles over to a desk, placing it beside a pickled animal inside a glass jar. From what the boy could see in the limited light he was given it was a small mammal, clearly very young as it was incredibly small. The sketchbook was filled with a variety of subjects; Dean could never figure out his favourite style or even preferred subject the boy had decided to try as many as he could. It seemed that he had made a gothic turn. Everything was fine for a while. Except the cold that hovered over the child's every move, pouncing at any movement at all. Or the single flickering flame that was holding the room from falling into a descent to darkness. But it was the noise that got him, the slow footsteps. At first they were distant, basically a little murmur of noise. It grew closer and closer though. Every step on the rough stone echoed across the dungeons.

Clomp.

Clomp.

Clomp.

By the time it was at the classroom Dean was standing with his back to the wall, a wand was pointing at the door trembling through the grasp of the boy’s hands. The figure that walked through immediately disarmed the boy, Dean couldn’t even see a wand through the layers of dark robes mixed with the dim candlelight. The wand flung itself across the room, landing on the wooden stable and finally the figure revealed their wand. With an extravagant wave of their wand, the torches around the classroom began to light up, one by one. With light now flooding into the room Dean saw clearly what was standing before him. Professor Snape stood with his wand now tucked within his robes as well as a scowl worn so effortlessly on his face.

“Here so early? Are you truly that eager to learn Thomas?” The cold gravely voice of the man bounced around the room, chilling the air even more.

“Sorry Professor.” Dean was too focused on the adrenaline pumping through his veins and the manic racing of his heartbeat which was only just slowing.

“I do not wish for your apologies, I would like to know why you are in my classroom so early on a Sunday morning?” The professor crossed the room to his desk, where he began to shuffle through the various parchments stacked in neat piles.

“I wanted to use one of these jars as a reference…for a drawing” Dean’s timid voice barely made it over to the teacher. Snape peered over to the table the boy was sitting at, scanning over the book then the jar that was practically untouched.

“Clean it up and get a life, Thomas.” The professor collected a few of the papers from his desk and proceeded to leave, not sparing the unsupervised student another glance.

~~~~~~~~~~

It was a particularly strange day on Sunday as the walk back up to the Gryffindor tower was not as peaceful as the walk from the tower. Ginny Weasley came storming through the halls, her striking red hair messy and a stack of books held tightly against her chest. The poor girl was so focused on the ground that Dean was sure she’d not even notice him. The halls were lit up a soft pink with few people walking through them so early in the morning, the only people he saw were those holding bunches of flowers and gifts wrapped pretty in red. Relationships across houses were very common and in some cases, much more convenient.

When the second-year student walked into his dorm all he found was a roaring fire and the bed’s all occupied silently. Until Seamus barged straight past Dean and into the dorm, the boy’s face was a deep red, dark circles clouded his eyes and an unusual anger sparked his eyes. “What the hell Dean!”, the Irish lad caught his friend's arm. A fierce grip but not one of malice and hostility. To avoid waking the entirety of the room, Seamus dragged his friend back down the spiral stairs and to the common room where for just a moment they could be alone.

“What is wro-”
“No! Don’t you dare ask me that. Are you stupid? A maniac is running around attempting to hunt down every single muggle born and you spend your morning galavanting around the school alone.”
“Shay-”
“You could’ve woken me up! Or wait just an hour more. I just spent an hour running around this ridiculously big castle thinking you were lying dead somewhere”

Dean wrapped his arms around his friend's shoulders, pulling him into an embrace as the boy’s eyes were fogging up with tears. Seamus was reluctant to hug back, snacking his arms around his friend's waist and burying his face in the boy’s shoulder. “I just didn’t want to wake you…I didn’t think you would’ve worried”

“You’re so stupid”, Seamus’s voice was strained, as his little broken voice cried out from the embrace of his friend, “So very stupid”.

Dean only laughed, a breathy half-assed laugh that was attempting to lighten the very dampened mood. Seamus pulled away from his friend, both having red eyes but dry cheeks as neither really wanted to shed tears on what was supposed to be a special occasion.

“Where were you anyway? I almost knocked at Hagrids to check you weren’t there.” Seamus collapsed down on the sofa, bringing his knees up to his chest and pulling his sleeves down to they bunched up at his palm. Dean looked down at his friend, how in a matter of seconds he went to angry, sad and now cute. Adorable even. But one could only stare for so long before it became weird. “Where. Were. You?”

“Potions classroom.” Dean gave his friend the sketchbook and sat next to him, right up next to his legs. The boy leaned over, pressing against his friend's legs and pushing them into the boy’s chest more, and watched as he flicked through the pages to find the most recent one. Seamus’s face didn’t react as Dean thought it would’ve. Usually, Seamus’s whole face would shrivel up in disgust and his eyes squinting so badly they would almost close completely: however, his face remained calm only cocked to the side as he observed the drawing under the soft pink light. “Not creepy enough for you?”.

“My dearest Dean. I grew up on a farm, I’ve watched my father put his hand so far up a cow that his shoulder collided with the animal's backside, I’ve seen trampled dogs that have wandered into the enclosures to get the livestock and more importantly, we share a room with Ron-” Seamus smirked a little to his friend who was leaning his face on the boy’s knees.

A laugh was followed by Dean who nodded in agreement after cringing a little at the response. The most gruesome thing he saw growing up was a pigeon that did not fly away as fast as it should’ve. Seamus began to flick through the book as Dean leaned his head down on his friend's knee, closing the eyelids that felt so heavy. Eventually the pair of Gryffidnors ventured back to their room where they changed out of their pajamas, all five of the students finally headed off to the Great hall where for once it was packed full of students. The torches at the side of the room were unlit, allowing the beautiful natural light from the ceiling to rain down on the tables. The energy of the room was lighter than usual, the buzz in the air electrifying enough to wake the zombie-like figures that began to file into the hall. Walking past the tables, Dean saw an array of wrapping paper and flowers, boxes of chocolates scattering the tables and shiny new jewellery glimmering from the sun's beaming rays. A large smile grew on his face as he walked beside his friend to the end of their table to sit, the second years were all there gathered just after the first years section. The table lay fairly bare compared with the other side with the older years, looking down Dean saw Fred holding a variety of red/pink cards with an insufferable grin plastered on his face.

“Shay!” A screech blasted across the table over to the pair of them as they were sitting, Dean’s head snapped across to see Lavender with a shy smile and cheeks red and flustered.

“Don’t call me that,” Seamus sat himself opposite the girl, shuffling closer to his friend once he was also sat and settled. “What’d you want anyway?”

The girls around her were giggling and whispering words of encouragement until Lavander revealed a card from under the table holding it out to the boy opposite the table. Seamus and Dean shared a little look, not turning too much but from the corner of their eyes they shared a look. One of panic. The boy took the card with a small awkward smile then watched as the group of girls rose from their seats and shuffled out of the hall, squealing and whispering in a little huddle.

“Open it. Open it” Neville was practically vibrating on the other side of Seamus, peering over to the card the boy held tightly in his hands. The boy tore open the envelope and took the card out, before opening it the boy tilted it away from Neville just so it was more private. Dean was getting himself and Seamus bowls of cereal so he was too preoccupied to sneak a peak also. It was yelling that drew all the attention away from the brick red Seamus who’d sunken into his seat.

Right at the entrance Pavarti stood shouting over at Pansy who stood leaning her weight on the foot placed further back and her arms crossed lazily across her chest. Dean could hardly put together the words being traded back and forth, the vision of the two girls disappeared as more people began to gather around them. The noise alone was piercing enough, the boy couldn’t imagine had he gotten any closer. Professor Lackhart pranced across the hall in a robe of luxurious silk and beautiful shades of light pink and a deep blood red. His blonde hair could be seen to push through the crowd. But when nothing was calming, it was Professor McGonagall once more who stormed down the hall. Seconds after he initial arrival the crowd dispersed and the two girls were guided out the hall, probably for yet another punishment. No doubt much worse than before.

“So what did it say?” Neville wore a smile that was almost larger than his face whereas Seamus looked as if he was on the verge of falling back asleep.

“Oh…” The boy looked down at the card on the table then shrugged a little bit, “The usual I guess”.

~~~~~~~~~~

The whole day was an absolute chaotic mess, love triangles and unholy rumours spun completely out of control. There were four fights, three of which included magic. Professor Lockhart had hired dwarfs to deliver love decrees in cupid costumes and if that wasn’t bad enough the stupid man decided to get all his mail delivered to the school. At lunch the Great Hall had so many owls coming in to deliver his fanmail, the other professors decided to close the windows. The second-years didn’t have too much drama as most of them were either too shy or too uninterested to get into any of that. Later in the day Seamus went and found Lavander, had a little talk with her and both left fairly happy.

Dinner was a particularly special occasion. Dumbledore made a speech about love and all that as beautiful confetti hearts fell from the dark starry night ceiling. Ron had spent the entire day miserable and decided to reinforce this during tea whereas Harry had many valentines, one from Ginny which was probably why she was acting so strange that morning. Just some Valentine's nerves. Candles were placed down the tables and centre pieces were an assortment of flowers and various other decorations, the twins were specially proud of the pink colour of the flames. Especially when the ones at the front podium began to flutter a rose colour.

Dean spent most of the day watching others get valentines or disputes because of this special holiday that the only time he’d had alone with his friend was very early that morning. Not the most pleasant occasion either. The boy fell asleep with his heart a little heavier than when he woke up.

~~~~~~~~~~

Shaking vigorously is what he woke up to. Seamus stood over his friend, a Cheshire grin on his face and a candle loosely gripped in his hand. The two of them snuck out of the room making it as far as the common room before words were finally exchanged.

“It’s almost midnight, thought we should stay up to finish the holiday”, Seamus smiled as took a seat on the window sill, looking out into the void of darkness where nothing could be seen except the stars that were dotted all across the night sky.

Dean joined his friend, pulling his knees up to his chest and looking out, “What did you say to Lavander…”, the boy had this feeling in his chest, it was like he was offended. Because Seamus was chosen as someone's valentine and he wasn’t? No, Dean was many things but spiteful wasn’t one. Maybe the thought of sharing his friend was stirring in some ways.

“Just told her I wasn’t really interested. Wasn’t the most fun I’ve ever had but you know…” Seamus shrugged carelessly and moved his gaze so that it was focused on his friend. The conversation simmered away and silence seemed to engulf the entire room. Not a strange or awkward silence that only holds tension but instead a comfortable peacefulness. The two boys were together, watching the sky and the silhouettes of the trees as they danced with the wind. Leaning on each other as they always do and will continue to do.

Chapter Text

It truly has been a while since I started this fic. Somewhere along the way I lost motivation in it but I miss writing a slow burn, especially Friends to lover trope. I have so many ideas for this fic, pictures and headcanons saved on pintrest it'll be such a waste to not continue it.

Currently I am rereading all the chapters, making notes on what I've done so far and if i want to make any changes to the story or the tempo of it. I should have a new chapter out by the beginning of September if not sooner, so If you have stayed following along for this fic I want to thank you. I appreciate the kudos and comments so much, I love hearing everyone views on the chapters and relationships.

Thank you so much for your patience <3

Chapter Text

Monday 1st March, 1993

The Winter chill circulated the Gryffindor tower, spiralling up and within the dorms, working its way around the fires and torches and the heat radiating from them. The stove fire from the centre of the room died sometime during the night, now all that remained was the pile of ashes and chunks of coal. Despite all of that, Seamus reached out blindly to find warmth not far from him. It wasn’t often he found himself awake before Dean, the Londoner’s features were crushed against the pillow beneath him and his hands tucked away beneath the duvet. The slither of light that peaked through the slit in the curtains was dim, it was possibly still a few hours before breakfast was to be served but Seamus found his gaze skimming across his friend. The boy was curled up facing him, the duvet not quite covering his shoulders instead draping across his arm. Dean’s breathing was slow, the only sound that filled the space around them, all Seamus could hear. This year had been a particular struggle for Dean, the anxiety festering only stressed him out and no matter how much he wished to ignore it, it had a way of slipping through the cracks. With every jump, every look as they turned a corner, wanting to be back earlier and earlier. Seamus imagined his friend had also noticed his peculiar behaviour, hoping he too could pin it on the muggle-born attacks.

The two of them had become accustomed to sharing a bed now, neither had to ask, nor even reach out anymore. It was an unspoken mercy on them both. Where for a time, they could put their guard down and just be comfortable.

“Go back to sleep.”

Seamus’s eyes widened, Dean’s were barely open before let alone now. A small smile crept on his face, he buried his face further into the pillow to hide it. Seamus should’ve turned, closed his eyes but he just starred. The boy’s cheeks turning pink, lips curling upwards, “Can’t, it’s too cold.” The boy tugged on the duvet, bringing it further up and bunched underneath his chin allowing his body to be enclosed in its warmth. It could only do so much against the crisp British morning, especially in the castle.

Dean opened his eyes, pupils dialating from the sunrise glow. The Gryffindor slipped out of the bed, steadily sneaking across the dorm. Seamus felt his heart sink, feelings of regret weighing heavily until he heard the rust lock on the stove. His friend was relighting the fire, its effects were felt almost instantly as the flames sent heat outward immediately. Dean tiptoes back, facing his friend’s sheepish grin with a sly smile, “Warm enough for you yet?”.

“I didn’t actu-”

Dean’s cold fingers ruffled through his friend’s hair, tossling the sandy bunch before burying himself back underneath the duvet. “Sleep.” And within a minute, the Londoner had drifted once more into a peaceful slumber. Seamus followed not long after, to the even and slow sounds of breathing next to his ear.

~~~~~

Breakfast seemed hours away, his eyes were still droopy when dragged into the Great Hall. Half seven wasn’t too early, the hall was fairly dull still with the chattering of students filling the vast space of the room. The number of students at Hogwarts had dwindled, some people left for Christmas and not returned while others had been pulled by their parents due to the situation. Seamus allowed his mind to wander just a little while longer until Orla nibbled at his ear, a letter had been dropped before him. The envolope which he imagined was once a crisp white was now a dull yellow, littered with stains and markings either from Mr. Johnson himself or the journey to Hogwarts itself.

‘Seamus,

Sometimes you do come out with the oddest things. What sort of creatures live in the lake? Surely it cannot just be this so-called ‘monster squid’. Next thing you’ll be telling me is that your bloody school is habourging the loch ness monster.

Farms doing alright, your family the same. Although your Aunt and Cousin arrived today, staying round a few days and all. Reckon he’s got your room so I hope you hid all your valuables away before you left.

Nothing else to report, no questions to be made. Make sure you write back.

Paddy Johnson’

The handwriting was appalling. Seamus scoffed as he folded the paper back up, shoving it deep into his robes pocket. Dean watched curiously as he did every single morning, to go from getting one letter a year to getting one every single day was an extreme. One Seamus was not fond of indeed but it came from a place of worry and care, that was clear as day.

“Before I forget, do you remember that History book you borrowed the other day? You still got it?” Neville tore himself away from the girl’s conversation, orbiting back to his roommates with a shiny attitude only Dean could reciprocate so early in the morning.

“Yeah, we’ve not given back our books yet. Shay’s probably got it back in the room.” Dean said, his eyes scanning the table for yet another addition to his plate.

Seamus groaned some sort of agreement, stuffing his face with all sorts, “What he said.”

Neville had moved all his focus onto the more useful of the two as Seamus just watched the exchange, trying still to blink himself more awake, “That’s good. Percy said if I want to get better grades this year I have to start revision now!”

Dean could only shake his head with a smile. Dismissing the advice, most students believe grades didn’t matter too much for younger years as the only proper exams weren’t until fifth year. Still, Nevilles concerns probably stemmed more from his family than himself. Seamus finally found himself joining the conversation at last, “I’ll help you with History but I want herbology notes, alright?”

The three of them agreed, the first class they had was History of Magic, after that they were free until the afternoon. Professor Binns was boring as usual, Seamus began to drift into a light sleep to the point Dean began to jab him every few minutes underneath the table. The ghost floated around the room, monitoring the students as they worked through chapters of the book they’d been given. It was a painful hour, many desks were left vacant while Harry had isolated himself to the back of the room. The other Gryffindors chose seats surrounding, acting a buffer for the whispers and looks from the other students.

As always the three second-years found themselves out in the grassland surrounding the castle, battling the harsh winds by the lake. Neville found himself sitting against one of the trees by the lake with the book open on his lap, every once in a while the other two would ask him questions about the topic for him to either answer from the top of his head or find within the book. Seamus and Dean had other revision plans, the freezing spell had recently been introduced to them, a fairly difficult spell which can immbolise a target. It was used by Hermione last year to stop Neville interfering with their plans. Seamus was still displeased by her use of it but the witch was beyond talented because they’d been trying all week.

“Immobulus” The ball Seamus followed with his wand continued to roll towards him, without a care for the blue sparks that just dusted across the rubber.

“I really can’t tell if it’s the pronounciation or not.” Dean jogged over to the ball, stopping it from rolling any further.

“I’m saying it the same way you do.” Seamus huffed, gesturing for another attempt.

Dean obliged, kicking the ball once more only for it to continue past his friend's next attempt, “That’s debatable…” The boy jogged over to his friend, positioning himself to look just over his friend's right shoulder where he was holding up the wand, “Try it again, I wanna see how you're moving your wand.”

The boy flicked his wand once more without uttering any of the words, without turning his head to look at his friend. Dean leaned on his friend as he watched, “That’s your problem, you're making a triangle but it’s got two peaks at the top, not one.” Dean’s hand snaked around Seamus’s wrist, guiding the boy’s hand into the correct shape, “Try again.” Only when the Londoner was happy with the wand’s movement did he go back over to the ball.

“Immobulus” Blue sparks soared from his wand, wrapping around the rubber ball bringing it to a painfully slow stop. In fact, Seamus wasn’t sure it actually stopped, as soon as it slowed he and Dean were jumping and cheering, running into each other’s arms to celebrate. The collision was messy but heartfelt, the laughter rang through the clear field, bouncing across the water of the Black Lake.

“Good so you can start on herbology now,” Neville beamed from the tree base, slamming the thick novel closed with a sharsh slam.

The laughter quickly turned into groans, the two drifted over to the third so the Gryffindors were piling basically on top of one another beneath the slight shelter of the tree. Time drifted away from them. At least here they felt safe from the secrets that haunt the castle, the monsters that lurked in the shadows and other kinds that walked amongst them. Together they found peace, blood meant nothing between the three of them however within the school it seemed to deem your worth amongst wizardkind. Seamus never truly found a side he preferred, muggle life seemed a little boring and slow however with that some peace, the Wizarding world was a war within a war but every inch of it infested with wonder and great power. Neville was clueless to the muggle world whereas only a couple years ago Dean had no idea the magical world existed.

Seamus wouldn’t want either of that. To not know about the muggle world or to live in the darkness of the Wizarding world.

~~~~~

The Londoner wasn’t fond of how his second year was progressing. School work was fine, his friends were amazing but everything was darker now. A new side of this world had been exposed, during his first year Hogwarts was a fairy tale and this new world was nothing more than a fantasy. This dream had morphed into a nightmare, one that left him too afraid to walk the halls of the castle alone even in the daylight. Students had divided, teachers were panicked and attempting to bring joy where only despair could be found.

“What you gonna do now, huh?”

“Hahaha you think that’ll ever come down?”

The voices carried clearly, hateful and sharsh. Dean turned the corner to see Luna and a couple other Ravenclaws, her blonde hair was so vivid the boy did not even need to see her face. What he did see was her feet, her barefeet on the cold stone of the castle with a pair of multicolour sneakers resting high up on some torches. A simple spell lowered them onto the ground before her, Luna turned back to grin to Dean, a warm touching smile but the Londoner couldn’t return it.

“What’s wrong with you two? Do you feel no shame?” The gap had now closed but his wand disappeared back into his robe, not wanting to give them any ideas. The two before him were much taller, if Dean had to guess he’d probably say third or fourth years.

“We were only having some fun.”

“Weren’t we Loony?”

“It’s actually pronounced Luna and I’m not sure I was having too much fun.” Luna’s smile never actually faded, the girl’s angelic voice remained smooth even as the two vile students before her laughed right into her face.

“Whatever you say, Loony.”

“Are you hard of hearing? Or perhaps a little slower than the rest of us? Are you sure the sorting hat didn’t malfunction when it was placed upon your head?” Dean came up to stand beside Luna but the girl had already begun to walk away, clearly not thinking much of the situation at all. The two Ravenclaw boys shouted some more horrid things down the hall as they walked but recently Dean had grown accustomed to such petty name calling.

“Does that happen often?” He questioned walking side by side with the girl as her shoes swung side by side next to her. “Have you told anyone about it?”

“I fear this school has larger problems to face, I can handle unkind words and a few childish tricks.” The girl stopped in her tracks, turning to face the boy looking him straight in the eyes, “Thank you for getting my shoes.”

Dean shrugged, “It wasn't a difficult job, just glad I could help a friend out.”

“You’re very kind, Dean. Should you be walking alone? It’s almost dark.” A hint of darkness seeped out of her cheerful tone, something about her eyes, she stared so intensely he’d almost forgotten how to speak.

A nervous chuckle escaped him as his hand reached to scratch the back of his neck, “Well I was supposed to walk back with Neville but he left something back at the library, besides I’m not alone anymore.”

“I suppose not.” The girl turned swiftly on her heels, graciously continuing down the hallway to make her way through the maze of the second floor of this building, “Do you believe that the Chamber of Secrets is real?”

“Oh…Well I’ve not actually thought about it.” Dean’s immediate reaction was to call it a lie, forged from a mythical tale and twisted throughout the years to be turned into a scary story but now? “I hope it’s not, imagine feeling so disgusted that magic can be gifted to those with no magical history that you feel the need to hunt children within a school? That’s pretty grim.”

Luna nodded along, “This whole purity belief is a fairly dated ideal. What’s truly scary is how some of the students here believe in it.”

A silence followed, not of awkwardness or lack of things to say, just thought. Dean was now wrapped up in his own world, thinking back to when he had no idea of this world, if he could choose would he go back to not knowing? The answer doesn’t remain a mystery long, for if he didn’t attend Hogwarts then he wouldn’t have been rushed off his feet at the trainstation and he wouldn’t have met his sandy-haired best friend.

The light cannot exist without the darkness.

Eventually the pair ran into Neville, who did a fantastic job filling in the silence. The conversion was spun onto the third year additional subjects, Neville had decided on his three choices, Dean had one confirmed but still unsure on the other two. Luna, of course, was destined for divination. The girl was formed from the twisted string of the fates and placed on earth as a window into the future, the gift she had was pure. It often reminded him of Seamus, having a talent so pure it happens without intention. Professor Trelawney had already met the wondrous child, it seems her future at Hogwarts had been set in stone. After walking Luna to the Ravenclaw common room, the Gryffindors rushed to theirs before curfew but still received a stern look from the prefect.

The second years had taken over the sofa’s around the fireplace once more, with the girls bundled together on the main sofa leaving the armchairs for the boy’s. Dean settled on the floor in front of Shay, leaving Neville the other seat. The common room wasn’t quite, the sound of the fire cackling, the fierce winds as they slammed against the glass windows and the hushed conversation between students.

“I’m doing Muggle studies and Divination I think,” Lavender was sandwiched between Parvati and Hermione, each looking through the brochure in their hands.

“I was thinking of Divination too! That and Arithmancy but Professor McGonagall seems to think there’s too much overlap between the two and I should try for something else.” The Patil twin leaned further into the armrest of the chair, the girl was so used to having her twin squidged in beside them but this new year had divided them just that little bit more.

“Yeah isn’t it just predicting the future using maths?” Neville questioned, looking more to Hermione who seemed to have investigated each of the options down to its core.

Dean lifted his gaze to Seamus who was staring off into the fire, watching as its flame swallowed the newly added logs. The boy nudged his friend's leg with his head, whispering up to him, “Weren’t you thinking of taking that? Arithmancy.”

“Yeah, that and Magical creatures. I heard Hagrid is being considered to teach it next year.” Seamus’s neutral expression had grown into a large teeth-baring grin, Dean returned the smile but turned to look through his own brochure. The boy had already crossed out muggle studies and Arithmancy, since lower school he and number had not gotten on too well. Ancient runes were a certain yes so was Care of Magical creatures, the Londoner was fascinated enough by the cows on Seamus’s farm so the idea of meeting creatures out of a fantasy book is insane. Dragons had been mentioned a handful of times in History, it was recently exposed that Ron’s brother worked with them which was incomprehensible for the muggle born.

As always, the Gryffindors stayed until the sunlight began to dwindle leaving the warm light from the flames. The girls were the first to leave, Neville followed not long after when a couple fifth years squabbling woke him from a light slumber. Dean didn’t bother moving to one of the free seats, leaning back on Seamus was comfortable enough, certainly warm enough.

“I heard a couple of the older students earlier say the school should just shut down, one of ‘em said Harry should be kicked out!” The sandy-haired boy’s voice echoed across the now fairly vacant common room, only a few students were left now doing late night revision or couples cuddling up together before having to separate for the night.

“It still amazes me how people believe it is him.” The boy had discarded his books, notes and even the brochure for the additional classes for next year, now he was leaning back against Seamus’ armchair, leaning his head on his frineds leg.

The response was not quick but more considerate, “Harry has been put in some strange situations. Finding the cat and the message, the whole speaking snake, it's all a bit strange…obviously we know it’s not him but I can see why others might be more wary of him.” Seamus kept his voice low, leaning down a bit, trying to keep it between the two of them. Dean nodded in agreement, pushing onto his feet and taking his friend's hand as if it was the most natural thing in the world. He pulled Seamus, who willingly followed, to his feet. Even climbing the spiral stairs, Dean’s grip didn’t falter.

The two Gryffindors slept peacefully to the sound of the rain trickling against the window and the spitting of the fire that still roared in the middle of the night, entangled together once more in the same bed.

Thursday 18th March, 1993

The parcel was wrapped a variety of newspapers cellotaped roughly around the old battered broom, it landed perfectly in the centre of the table spilling a couple goblets and laying on a couple plates of bacon and sausages. Seamus’s cheeks were now a deep crimson, Orla seemed to care little for the food as the bird was now perked before Dean, accepting some torn pieces of toast happily.

“I thought they were never gonna send it.” Dean’s gaze didn’t drift from the bird, the boy was still tearing the bread apart and holding it to the little creature.

“Yes, well they couldn’t have chosen a better time…or material.” Seamus guided his finger across the paper, scrunched up and stained with coal or coffee. Neville leaned over, poking his finger into a small tear probably made on the journey, his hand was flicked away shortly after.

Ron and Harry shared a look but it was Ron that spoke up first, “So that means everyones now got there brooms,” a sly grin curved on the freckled boy’s face just as Seamus was tearing off the paper from his broom, scrunching them up into balls of newspaper. Dean nodded, the boy brought his to Hogwarts knowing it wouldn’t get much use in London, Neville, Harry and Ron had all brought theirs at the beginning of the year.

It had been a while since the five of them had done something together, oftentimes Harry and Ron would run off with Hermione solving puzzles and unlocking secrets of the school. Seamus didn’t think he missed them much until they were all back together again, the tension that sometimes lingered had melted away and the laughter filled the gaps. The quidditch field was empty so at first they were there, Ron was adamant on showing off some stupid tricks his brothers had taught him. Harry was clearly a natural because as soon as he saw the trick, he could copy it almost perfectly. If Seamus knew nothing about him, he would bet his life that Harry Potter was born clutching a broom in one hand and a wand in the other. Instead he came to Hogwarts slightly malnourished and fairly confused.

That just reminded him of another student. Dean was not as nervous as Neville on a broom, it always took him a few minutes to warm up to the height. Poor Neville was only hovering over the ground, probably still nervous about his first lesson.

When they ran out of tricks to show off, it somehow managed to turn into a game of chase. Seamus might’ve made a comment which set Ron off to chase him, Dean wasn’t too far from the gingers trail but was distracted by the occupational seeker who was also trying to catch up. Neville straggled at the back of the group, far too cautious with turns, far too sensible.

“Not a fan?” A smirk was plastered on his face, however distorted by the opposing winds.

“Seamus, I’m warning you.” Rons voice bellowed angrily through the sky’s, the boy pressed towards edging closer to his broom.

Seamus didn’t seem at all affected, in fact, it encouraged him to continue, “I’m sure she likes you back.”

The redness in Ron’s cheeks burned, only feuling his anger and making him lean closer till Seamus was only a couple inches from his grasp. The Weasley pressed forward but Seamus spiraled right at the last minute, the smug grin on his face was enough for Ron to whirl himself in the opposite direction using the bristle of his broom to knock Seamus off balance. That was a move he had not seen coming, a trick his friend had yet to disclose. The boy’s hands locked around the broom, holding on as it spun out of control, spiralling down towards the ground. Panic was set alive in his chest, the wildness of his heartbeat only worsened his nerves as he attempted to pull the broom up. Nothing the boy did helped his balance at all. The winds were too harsh, the broom spun too fast.

Crash.

Another broom crashed into him, the opposite direction. For a split second the broom slowed enough for Seamus to grasp control of it once more, shooting up towards the sky leaving behind any images he’d had of himself laid splat on the ground.

Ron seemed to have landed in one of the Hufflepuff stands, Harry beside him waving his arms around in his general direction. Neville was slow to join them, standing between the two of them. Dean. Seamus scanned the field, the stands were clear, the ground all clear.

“Lost something?” The chipper voice rolled into his left, so close their legs brushed together and the tops of their brooms overlapped.

“Was that you?” A question full of complete admiration, Seamus looked at his friend with an expression with so much regard and tenderness.

The boy’s mousy smile was turned away as he hid it away to look at the others, “Of course, do you doubt my skills?”

Seamus tilted his head back as he cackled, a voice so loud that the other three Gryffindors couldn’t help but peek in at the scene. Dean’s sheepish smile developed into a challenging smirk, “You were lucky you had that headstart, you know.”

His eyes narrowed on his friend, considering the boy’s overconfidence for a moment. “Let’s see shall we,”

“Three”

Dean moved back and lined himself up.

“Two”

The two stole a momentary glance, one of exilleration and emotion.

“One”

The brooms tore through the sky, neck in neck, shooting out of the quidditch field immediately. The castle felt too risky, Dean was too inexperienced for that since the city boy had only really ridden freely in Ireland during his visit. So they stuck to a clear race, exploring the fields surrounding the school, then soaring across the black Lake. The two were so low, wild bristles of Seamus’s broom tore hude ripples into the water, the tips of Dean’s shoe did the same thing before he tucked them higher. The two danced in the sky, taking turns leading, weaving in and out until eventually it wasn’t even a race anymore. At times, they flew so close they were practically leaning on each other, sending glances often finding the other staring as well.

But no dance can last forever.

~~~~~

Saturday 20 March, 1992

The Gryffindor Quidditch team were nothing if not predictable, even during the current state of the school the team were out during the evening practising with all they have. Dean was up in one of the stands, wrapped up in a thick winter coat and a scarf that snaked around his neck, bunching comfortably under his chin. Trembling beside the boy was Seamus. The boy was sitting with his knees up to his chest, three layers, a hat and scarf and he was still shivering from the cold. Dean couldn’t help but smile when he saw his friend’s barely visible face, hidden beneath the beanie and scarf, reddened from the Winter weather.

“Why-” The timid voice was barey loud enough to be heard through the yelling from the players and rain pour that plummeted down on the ancient wooden boards of the stands’ floor and benches.

“Inspiration. I used to come out with Lavender and Hermione, they haven’t come with much this year,” Dean looked pitfully at his friend and began peeling off his gloves, “I like drawing out here.”

Seamus’s eyes were tightly closed, the boy was still curled up with his face pointing down towards the floor and nose a shade of red Dean had never seen before. The Londoner reached for his friend's hands, gently guiding them away from his legs. Seamus peeked his face out from between his knees with a gentle expression, Dean found unreadable. One by one, he manouvered his gloves on the boy’s hand with a soft smile. His friend continued to stare, then reached over to tug on a loose end of his scarf, a smile now shining brightly on his face.

“You are something else Thomas.” Seamus brought the hands to his face, cupping them around his mouth blowing hot air between them.

Dean laughed, attention drawn back to the players. The boy felt Seamus shuffle closer, so much so they were pressed together. Dean looked down to see his friend's head comfortably resting on his shoulder, while the rest of him gently shivered against the cold. The two Gryffindors sat for a while, in the large stands, squished together fighting against the cold. Time escaped them. No way of knowing how long they were there for, eventually the players cleared from the sky and the grey clouds cleared out with the rain. Seamus somehow managed to enter a light sleep, even drenched in rainwater, the boy reached for warmth and found it in the palm of Dean’s hand. As soon as he found it, he didn’t let it go.

It wasn’t like Dean minded, the boy looked down to his friend in his blissful slumber and smiled.

~~~~~

The walk back to the castle was an interesting one. The two of them left a trail of rain water on the stone, from the grand enterance of the castle all the way to the Gryffindor common room. It was a little later in the evening now, they’d missed curfew by a couple minutes but one look at their drenched appearances and Percy just walked off. For a time, they stood palms out to the fire, uncaring to the ongoing puddle that grew around their feet.

“What happened to you two?” Harry’s voice cut through the silence, shattering the tranquility that had been woven between them.

“It rained Potter, do you have eyes?” Seamus barked back, not even turning to look at the newcomer.

Dean offered him a smile before nudging Shay, “Go and shower before you catch a cold.”

“Says you, daft cow gave away your gloves.” Seamus pouted before reaching into his pocket and handing over the soakes items.

Dean shrugged, “That’s why I’ll stay here until I can feel them again.”

Without much argument, Seamus disappeared up the spiral stairs for their dorm. Harry plopped down on one of the armchairs, “You gonna try out for the team?”

“Maybe next year, that’s not why I go out there though.” Dean turned to look at the boy, dark circles around his eyes and an expression of wariness, “You don’t look too good.”

Harry laughed, nodding his head, “I can’t go anywhere without people staring at me…whispering.” He sighed loudly at the ceiling, Dean watched the boy in his misfortune.

“Harry…no one here thinks it’s you. It hadn’t crossed my mind for a second. They are just scared…” The boy stared back at the fire, thinking back to his reaction to the victims of this monster, how he was so scared he couldn’t close his eyes without dreaming of it. Paranoid that hiding around every corner was a beastly shadow waiting to pounce on him. “They’ll catch them soon.” Dean added more chipper than before, a smile more stubborn than before “I just know it.”

“Thank you, I’m sure the Professors are on it.” Harry hesitated a moment, his voice becoming more timid and unsure, “Lot’s of students have left already…Why did you stay?”

Seamus. His friends. The school. “I considered it. Especially during Christmas, it would’ve been so easy to stay home…but I would’ve gotten too bored.” Dean cracked a smile before pulling his hands away from the fire, “Shall we?”

Harry followed Dean up the stairs, only to find the other three singing some god awful Wizarding song. Badly singing it too. The laughter that filled the room that evening distracted everyone from the turmoil brewing outside.

Dean enjoyed a long, very hot shower to wash away the goosebumps that had taken up residence on every inch of his skin. When he emerged from the bathroom the other four had arranged themselves on Dean and Nevilles bed, taking up the windowsil as well. The ginger cat was cuddled on Seamus’s lap as the boy laid himself casually on the Londoners bed, the rest of the bed held an assortment of muggle and wizarding sweets.

“What’s all this?” Dean climbed across his bed, sliding comfortably next to his bed friend and offering some attention to the clingy creature sprawled on his lap.

“Truth or sweet, We’ve got Bertie Botts every flavour beans but only the horrid flavours,” Ron’s mischievous grin inspired much suspicion, Neville who was perched against the windowsill laughed brightly while Harry grimaced slightly.

The boys took turns, each weighing the truths against the flavours of the beans which were truly horrific.

“Which girl in our year would you date?” Seamus instead chose to eat the bean, the boy swore he got a dirty sock flavour which erupted the others into breathless laughter.

“Would you rather kiss Harry or me?” Neville looked between Harry and Ron for a moment, cheeks heating up to a rosy colour.

“Harry.”

Ron’s jaw hung wide, Harry jumped in triumph with the other two laughing at the pair, “WHY HIM?”

“Ron, who’s your favourite brother?” Dean’s question distracted him from Neville’s distressing response, now his shocked expression just turned to the Londoner.

“I can’t choose between them…they’re all equally as intolerable.” The boy stared hatefully at Dean while picking out a sweet from the pile, the first few mouthfuls looked painful and it only got worse, “Marmalade.”

“When did you realise you could speak to snakes?” Seamus’s question sent a wave of quiet across the room, all eyes were on poor Harry who was sittng sheepishly on the bed.

“I went to the zoo for my cousin’s birthday, one of the snakes spoke to me! My cousin shoved me over to stare at it so I removed the glass and let it escape. It actually thanked me on its way out.” Harry’s cheeky smile was infectious, sending the boy’s into a conversation about their discoveries to magic. Dean couldn’t think of a time he’d used it before he was introduced to Hogwarts. Not a single time.