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deke-rivers-1957 · 8 months ago

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Scott’s Search For Love

It's night time and my friend Tom comes into my lab.

“Hey Scott. How's it goin?”

“I've been better.”

“Listen you gotta crash soon buddy. You’ve been up too long.”

“I know, I just didn't want to be alone tonight.”

“I know how you feel. C’mon and let’s talk about it.”

I decide it’s best not to argue so I follow Tom to the front room.

“Well I’m ready to hear ya out.”

“It's hard to start because I can't quite define it. Maybe it's just some kind of restlessness, a feeling of needing something more…or maybe it's just a problem that I have with women.”

“Oh I get it. You’re still sore about your marriage with Dianne falling apart.”

“Yeah. I keep thinking how much of a fool she made out of me, but I still think of the beginning, when it was fresh and young. I still can smell that little perfume she used to wear.”

“So why’s that making you hole up in the lab now?”

“I don’t know. I'm not sure if it's Dianne or the restlessness, or just the realization that I've been a fool. I want to do something more than what I'm doing. I don’t know, I just feel like something's missing in my life.”

Tom immediately stands up off the couch.

“What you need is to be thrown out of your comfort zone. Dancing girls as far as the eye can see. The Moulin Rouge.”

“Okay, okay. I guess I could use some fun. Let's go.”

“Great! I’ll get the car. Don’t worry about changing.”

I can’t even argue with him as Tom drives me to a place open all night and looks like an old fashioned saloon.

“This is the place?”

“Just wait till you get inside. Va va voom. In about 5 minutes a swinging little number’s gonna be coming your way. Fiery New York girl who doesn’t mince words. And boy does she like to take charge.”

“How are you so sure? I never exactly had women throwing themselves at me.”

Tom sits down at a table and I sit down on the other side.

“Now don’t get sore with me but I already called ahead of time and booked you with the crown jewel of these ladies.”

“You really wanted me to come here and be with this girl?”

“I always try to give you the best old buddy.”

All I can do is sigh since Tom does mean well. Even before I married Dianne he would try to get me dates with women he met.

“Well I guess I'll take a chance on her then. Maybe if I take your suggestion for once I might get at least a nice conversation.”

“There you go. At least you’re doing something.”

Some guys come up to our table and look right at me.

“Hey Tom who’s this dough boy?”

“That better not of been a crack about my weight.”

One of the guys gets in my face.

“And what if it was.”

I stand up and try to stare them down. Lack of sleep’s really affecting my judgement.

“You better knock it off.”

Things get ugly. Just as I'm about to get punched in the face I hear a commanding woman’s voice.

"Hey! There ain’t gonna be any fighting in this joint."

The guy steps back. Everyone turns to see who’s talking. Tom whispers to me.

"That’s Carmen."

She comes up to the group of guys.

"You oughta mind your own business when it comes to newcomers. If you don’t like it you can leave."

They scurry away.

"We’re sorry ma’am."

She turns to look at us and my heart skips a beat. I think I'm preparing myself to possibly have my heart broken.

"Hey Tom is this your friend Scott? You are new aren’t you."

"Yeah, I've never been here before."

"Well I’ll show you to my room. Follow me."

"Okay."

I get up and follow her. My heart's beating so fast I can barely breathe.

“This is it.”

I take a look into the room as she goes in

"This is uh…not quite what I imagined."

"What? Were you expecting this to look like a seedy motel room?"

"Well…yeah. I mean it's late and it's…you know."

"Listen. Just because I get paid for favors doesn’t mean I don’t have standards."

I feel slightly embarrassed about my faux pas.

"Oh no, no, of course not. I didn’t mean to imply that. I wasn't expecting your room to be this elegant as I didn't think you ladies lived here."

"Good now get on the bed."

"Okay."

I do as she says since I'm in enough trouble. As soon as I lay down on the bed I feel the fatigue hit me.

"Hey Scott."

"Yeah?"

She sits down in a chair and starts smoking a cigarette.

"You want a smoke?"

A part of me kind of wants to say yes. But only a small part so I push it down.

"No thank you. I don’t smoke. Or drink."

"Boy are you different."

I wince inside. This isn't looking good at all. I'm so out of my comfort zone I don't even know what she's going to do to me.

"This probably sounds like a dumb question, but…what're we doing in here?"

"Tom paid me to be with you for an hour. You can do anything you want with me."

There's something about paying a woman to do "favors" that doesn't sit well with me. I know Tom wants to help but I'm just not that type of guy.

"I'm not sure I want anything. I really just wanted to come here and have some fun and get out of a rut I'm in. Tom was telling me getting away from my comfort zone would do me some good. He wanted me to meet you because he said you'd be good for me."

"And he’s right. When patrons feel stuck in their sex life they come to me because I help them figure out what they want."

"Oh. What exactly do you think I'd want then?"

Carmen looks at me long enough to make me feel a panic attack coming on.

"First off why do you look like a drowned rat who hasn’t had so much as straw to sleep in and a piece of cheese to eat? I'm amazed Tom would bring you here when everyone can see the bags under your eyes. What do you have insomnia or something?"

At first I feel hurt because I took it as an insult. Then I start to understand that Carmen's saying this out of concern. I'm a little touched by that.

"Uh, I haven't been sleeping very well lately. I've been in a pretty deep depression. I don’t think being called a dough boy helped things."

"I heard that. It hurt you that much?"

Maybe it's because I'm just exhausted but I feel myself opening up to her and tell her things I haven't told any woman.

"Well I’ve already got low self-esteem about my weight as it is. And it seems like my money is more popular than I am being Duster Heyward's son who just sits in a lab all day. Outside of that I’m just…. fat. And unattractive."

"And says who?"

"Everyone. No one’s found me attractive. Not even the girls I’ve dated. Oh sure they never outright said I was fat and unattractive but they weren't exactly affectionate with me either. I’ve only been in one serious relationship to the point of marriage, but she just wanted my money. She didn't seem to care about me when I worked one too many nights in the lab or when I felt discouraged about a project. Even when I would take a break and try to give her all of my affection I just. Never got the same amount of that affection back. We ended up getting a divorce and she quickly went onto someone more fit. And not as ugly."

I can't help but feel myself spiral. I cover my face because of how overwhelmed I am.

"Hey. Let me speak for myself before you lump me in with everyone."

I take a deep breath and look at Carmen.

"Okay, sorry. Go ahead."

"Good. Undo your shirt."

At first I just look at her since I’m nervous about this but I do as she says. I just don't think this will end well.

“Okay. I’m ready.”

Carmen gets out of her chair and puts out her cigarette. The way she's looking at me makes me think I'm going to be in for a horrible time.

“Now hold still.”

I close my eyes so I don't see what she does when I feel her hand on my stomach. I wasn't expecting that since it's quite gentle. Her touch sends slight tingles through my body.

"Jeez are you constipated or stressed? Your stomach feels hard as a rock."

I have to laugh a little at that because it's true.

"I guess I’m both. I do tend to tense up when I feel stressed."

I try my best to relax as she rubs my stomach. It surprisingly isn't as hard as I thought it'd be since this is starting to feel nice.

"See you ain’t as bad as you think you are."

I open my eyes after not realizing I closed them.

"Yeah? You don’t think I look too fat?"

“Nah. Your stomach’s soft but it doesn’t droop over your belt.”

I let out a sigh of relief.

"So what’s your request?"

"Okay. I need a nap and well.. can I…lay my head on your lap? I’d like…. My head rubbed."

"Yeah. It ain’t a big deal."

"Oh okay."

I sit up and move a little closer to Carmen so that I can lay my head on her lap. I wasn't expecting her to say yes that quickly. I guess she's used to having weird requests like this.

"How long do you wanna nap?"

"I’ll say 30 minutes should be fine."

"Alright I’ll set a timer."

I watch her set a timer and feel her rubbing my head. It's the type of head rub that makes me realize just how stressed I really was. But now it's all just... floating away.

Time Skip

"Ok time's up.

I hear the timer go off and slowly open my eyes. That nap definitely helped me feel better. I almost don't even want to get off her lap because of how nice this was.

"Mmmm…"

"How was that?"

I decide it's best to sit up and look at her as I stretch.

"A lot better than a regular pillow. I’m not even kidding."

"I can tell. All you need is some cheese and you'd be a happy rat."

Maybe it's the way she says it but I can't help but chuckle. It never comes off as her putting me down but as a way to help me not feel so bad about myself. There's something about her that makes just want to take a chance in asking this.

"There is another thing I would like to do."

"Oh yeah?"

"Okay… I’d like to uh… go on a date. When you’re not you know doing all this."

"Alright I’m free from noon to 4."

"Oh. You really mean that?"

"I don't say anything unless I mean it. But just so you know I don't do any off the clock favors."

I can't help but blush from that. It does feel nice that even though she works like this, she still has standards where there's no pressure to "perform" with her.

"Oh, okay, okay. You won’t need to worry about that. I just don’t… really do that right away."

"Ok."

I'm still amazed that I really just asked a woman I just met out on a proper date. This is new and different for me that I'm a little worried about being too desperate.

"So, does that mean you’ll go out with me?"

"Sure where do you plan on going?"

“Well uh. You like Italian food?”

“Honey I am Italian. That would be perfect.”

This is turning out better than I thought. Carmen might actually be interested in talking with me outside of just her job.

"Great. What time do you want me to pick you up?"

"12:15 on Thursday."

"Okay 12:15. You know, I wasn’t expecting you to say yes to this."

"I wasn't expecting to have a patron wanting more than my typical favors so we're even."

She looks up at the clock.

"You should probably fix yourself up since it's close to an hour."

"Oh. Yeah."

I get off the bed and button my shirt up again. Maybe she has a special type of mirror but when I start to fix up my hair I could swear I actually look better.

"Thank you for letting me nap. I can’t wait to see you again on Thursday."

"I’m glad you had a good time."

"It was better than I was expecting. I guess I’ll be going now. I’ll see you Thursday. Have a good rest of your night."

"You too."

I wave as I leave her room. Tom must have had a good time too because he comes up to me with a smile on his face.

"What did I tell you Scott. You look great. Carmen fixed you right up."

"Yeah. You were right. She did fix me right up. I do feel pretty good actually. We’re going on a date Thursday."

We start going outside to the car.

"A date? Now that’s something to write home about."

"I know. I never thought she would agree to it in a million years. Plus it’s a real date. We’re going out for Italian."

“Excellent choice. You learn a lot about a woman just by where they agree to go on a date. Italian can mean anything and doesn't always require a checkbook.”

I realize he's right. Carmen could've suggested a more expensive place but she didn't. She's actually very easygoing and didn't make me feel like I needed to do anything to impress her.

"That's true. I didn't want to make it too fancy but I still want to take her somewhere nice."

"Well you're spoiled for choice with Italian places."

Tom gets in the car.

"Now let’s go home and get some sleep. 1 am just ain’t like it used to be."

"Yeah. A good nap on that nice cushion of hers really did me good but I'm still a little tired."

"Cushion? You don't mean her-"

I start to blush as I buckle my seatbelt. Of course Tom would think that since I did make it sound a little dirty.

"No, no I would never do that. Trust me. I meant her lap."

Tom laughs as he starts driving me home. I feel like I should explain what happened.

"I really opened to her about myself. She told me to unbutton my shirt because I said I wasn’t attractive and that everyone felt I was fat. I never had my stomach rubbed like that before."

"Not even with Dianne?"

"Oh. No. Dianne never really touched my stomach. Not like how Carmen touched it. You know. She probably did it because I was her patron."

Tom shakes his head.

"Nah those stomach rubs were real, pal."

"How do you know that?"

"There are many women that work there. My personal favorite’s Lady Marmalade. She told me a lot about how they operate. These women can tell what a newbie likes just by who they book."

"What? Seriously?"

"Oh yeah. Carmen’s bread and butter are men who can’t get it up. Psychology is a big part of the process. You over think things involving romance. That’s another thing they pick up on. Her bluntness eliminates that problem since she'd never do anything she didn't feel comfortable doing."

I admit that Tom's experience with these women is very useful.

"Yeah, she definitely is blunt. That I could tell. But that’ll mean she’ll tell me about my chances of a second date by the time we get the check right?"

"Definitely."

I start to feel a tad more confident about the date now that I talk through this.

"Well, if you’re right, at least I’ll know where I stand by the end of the date."

“You will.”

Once we get home we try to walk inside without waking up my Pa.

"Night, Tom."

"Night buddy."

As soon I get inside my room something just feels off. Or at least off compared to the dark hole I've been in.

“Is this hope? I think I feel good.”

I sit down on my bed then look at my reflection in the mirror. I notice that I no longer look as nervous, scared, or stressed out. I think back at the recent memory of lying on Carmen’s lap and her rubbing my stomach and then my head. It was the right decision to go.

“Now if only this date can be as good.”

I change into my pajamas then lay my head down on the pillows. I've been so restless for so long but now I'm actually looking forward to something in the near future. I can finally sleep peacefully now.

Tagging: @atleastpleasetelephone, @xanatenshi, @eapep, @jhoneybees, @hooked-on-elvis,

@vintagepresley, @i-r-i-n-a-a, @peaceloveelvis, @urbeatlemaniac, @samcro-redwood-originals,

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@freudianslumber, @smokeymountainboy, @thelonelyheart, @be-my-ally, @whositmcwhatsit.

#scott heyward #clambake #ecu fanfiction #tw possible fatphobia

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an-ecu-harrypotter-au · 1 month ago

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TCS Part 18: The Cure

"Toby do ya think Professor McGonagall'd pick me to be there for Tim?"

Ah look up from my Astronomy book.

"Ah'd say so cause she knows who's friends with each other in this House."

"So you'd be there for Jacklin?"

"Ah sure hope so cause Ah'd feel betrayed. Ah don't even remember Jacklin talkin ta anyone outside a me when she don't have to."

Ah look back at my book and realize Ah forgot where Ah stopped.

"Dang Ah forgot where Ah was. This chapter bout Copernicus' real long and it don't have any pictures."

"Why do ya need to read about him?"

"Oh Ah gotta write a scroll bout who he is and what he discovered for Sinistra. Yer lucky. You only gotta be havin to remember names a basic stars and make a map of Jupiter."

Ah try to get back to my spot when Ah hear McGonagall come in.

"Can I have Mr. and Miss Kwimper follow me?"

Ah forget about the book and rush up to McGonagall because Ah know it's time to see Jacklin. Ah just know she'd want Holly because her friend Tim'll need her help too.

"Yes professor?"

"Madam Pomfrey is about to administer the potion. If it's successful in curing those who have been petrified, they should awake right away."

"Ok. C'mon Holly, let's go."

We follow her and Ah see somebody from Hufflepuff. Ah think it's because he's here for Pacer. Ah realize that there's a lot about Pacer Ah don't know. Maybe Ah can be friends with his friend too.

"Madam Pomfrey. All the students have been gathered."

"Thank you Minerva. I already succeeded in curing Mrs. Norris. Argus was quite pleased that there were no side effects of the potion."

"Indeed."

Ah walk into the Hospital Wing and sit down by Jacklin's bed.

"Come sit by Mr. McLean, Miss Kwimper. I'll start administering the draught."

Holly sits by Tim's bed. Ah see that he's got his mouth closed. Sprout comes in.

"Here you are Poppy. I brought a larger spray bottle with the potion for the dearies."

"Thank you Pomona."

She takes the spray bottle and sprays Tim. It takes a couple seconds but Tim slowly starts movin.

"Ah!"

He looks real panicked and Ah guess it makes sense. If the last thing he saw was a Basilisk that would definitely be real scary.

"Holly! What happened?"

"It's a long story. The monster's gone and we found a cure."

Tim sighs and relaxes back onto the bed.

"Thank goodness."

McGonagall looks at me.

"It appears you were correct regarding both the draught's color and application methods Mr. Kwimper. Perhaps Divination is a well suited elective for you."

Ah can only smile. Ah think McGonagall's startin to believe in me. Ah see the nurse now movin around Pacer's Hufflepuff friend. He looks like a 1st year like Holly and Tim.

"Careful now, Deacon. I'll have your friend Pacer fixed in no time."

Ah look at Deacon and Ah wonder if he's part Indian like Pacer is. Either way Ah watch her use a dropper ta drip the potion in Pacer's mouth. Same as Tim, Pacer wakes up lookin spooked. He sits up and turns around.

"Vhat?"

"Pacer mate, it's alright."

Deacon ain't Indian then. Ah wonder where he's from but Ah'll just ask Pacer when he's feelin better.

"Deke. Vhat vas that monster?"

"Ask Toby. He killed it."

Pacer looks at me like he just can't believe it.

"You really killed dat monster, Toby?"

"It really is a long story. Ah'll tell all a ya when we're done with all this."

He nods and the nurse comes over to Jacklin. Ah take a step back.

"I can try dripping this into her mouth since her lips are slightly parted."

She pulls out the dropper and puts a couple in her mouth. Nothin.

"I don't understand. The potion went into her mouth."

Ah'm gettin scared that this ain't workin. Then Ah member that she's half Veela and Ah remember that Scott said she ain't like most wizards. If Filch's cat can't die because she's an animal, how'd someone like Jacklin react?

"Um how do potions work on Veela people?"

Everybody looks at me. The nurse's eyes widen.

"Oh my. I forgot about that."

She drops more potion into Jacklin's mouth. McGonagall looks at the nurse.

"What did you forget Madam Pomfrey?"

Before she can answer Jacklin sits up.

"Toby. The monster was a Basilisk."

Ah hug her but also want to keep her from falling over.

"Ah know Jacklin."

"Scott managed to find a cure then?"

"Yeah. The Basilisk's dead too."

"How?"

Ah sit back and realize now's the time to fill everyone in but before Ah can, Jacklin's dad comes in.

"Father?"

He rushes up to hug her. At first Ah wondered how he got here so fast but then Ah remembered he's our substitute teacher for Lockhart.

"Oh darling. I came here as soon as I received word about the potion being finished."

He turns to me and goes back to bein a teacher.

"Your father is here as well, Mr Kwimper. The Headmistress informed him about Holly being in danger and this was the earliest we could have him come."

Ah turn and see Pop come in.

"Are you kids awright?"

Holly goes up to Pop.

"Toby saved me Pop. He saved me!"

"How?"

Again everybody looks up at me. Ah rub my face.

"Is everybody here? Ah gotta really focus on this."

Everybody sees that Ah'm gettin all close to meltin so they stop movin.

"Ok. So it all started back when mah family and Jacklin's family went to Diagon Alley to get our books. Mr. Lockhart was at the book store for a book signin which is why you all saw that picture he had taken with Jacklin an 'er dad."

Ah nod to Holly.

"Mr. Lockhart gave Holly a diary because Professor Gryffindor wanted to make sure me and Holly got nice gifts too when he gave Jacklin his entire collection of books for free. Well it turned out that the diary was Tom Riddle's. Godric's paintin told Jacklin that Tom killed a girl to make it a horcrus. Sorry horcrux."

Ah take a breath. This is just a lot to remember since Ah need to remember everything from this whole past year. Then Ah start to go over everythin after Christmas leadin up to the day of Jacklin gettin attacked.

"Jacklin's been doin research with Scott from Ravenclaw bout the monster and how to cure everyone since the first attack happened on Halloween. It wasn't till a month ago or so that they figured out what the monster could be. She was gonna take it to Mr. Dumbledore when she got attacked. Jodie from Slytherin told me about the piece a paper in 'er hand so Ah took it."

Ah keep goin about how Ah figured out what happened up until now.

"Ah couldn't figure out what it all meant after a couple weeks cause Ah was relyin on my visions. So Ah went to Scott for help when we were at the library with Ravenclaw. He told me what it all meant when Holly went missin. Ah told the Headmistress bout the diary so she had me and Mr. Lockhart go down to the chamber in the dungeon walls to save her. Mr. Lockhart started talkin weird about how Ah knew too much about him bein fake so he tried obliviatin my memories. Ah had the mirror up so the spell must've bounced off it and hit him. Knowin Holly was still in danger Ah kept goin till Ah found her and Tom Riddle's ghost from the diary. He summoned the Basilik to come when Fawkes flew in with the Sortin Hat and pecked out the monster's eyes. Ah kinda lucked when the hat had Godric's sword but Ah stabbed it. Ah killed the Baslick and kept stabbin the diary when Ah was meltin and killed Tom's ghost. That woke Holly up so Fawkes flew us and Mr. Lockhart outta the chamber to bring us back to the main part of the castle. And that's what happened."

Everyone looks so amazed. Jacklin's dad stands up.

"Well now. I believe I should send a letter of reinstatement. Of course if that's alright with you, Headmistress."

McGonagall smiles.

"Yes. Hogwarts will need its rightful Headmaster back. Of course, I believe he will continue to have you serve until the end of the term. There simply isn't time to find a long-term replacement until the summer holiday."

"Very well then. If you can come with me Samson. I think we should let Madam Pomfrey carry on with her work."

"Whatever ya say, Henry."

They all leave the room and Ah can finally breathe. Ah feel real tired now and look at Jacklin.

"Ah'm goin up to my room. Ah need a nap."

"I understand, Toby. That was a lot of talking you did just now. Go on and rest."

Ah go up to my room alone and immediately fall asleep when Ah get into bed. Finally things're gettin back to normal.

Time Skip

"Ribbit."

Ah yawn as Ah wake up to Trevor needin attention.

"Ya wanna eat buddy?"

He croaks.

"Ok. Ah'm comin."

Ah feed Trevor.

"Jacklin and all the petrified kids are awake now. The potion worked."

He hops into my hand.

"Yeah Ah know. You were right. Ah gotta believe in myself more."

Ah rub his head for a couple minutes.

"Ah gotta put you back in the tank buddy but Ah'll be back after dinner."

Ah put him back in the tank and find Holly.

"How was yer nap?"

"Good. Ah fed Trevor just now so Ah'm ready to eat."

"Ok."

Everythin is still quiet as we go downstairs but all the kids have hope now that the potion is done.

"Your attention please."

Ah look up at McGonagall.

"I would like to announce that I am stepping down as Headmistress."

A bunch of kids are shocked but Ah'm not since Ah was there when she said Dumbledore was comin back.

"I would also like to announce that my final decision as Headmistress is to name my replacement. With Professor Gryffindor's endorsement, it gives me great pleasure to announce your new Headmaster: Albus Dumbledore."

Everyone includin Slytherin cheers when they see Dumbledore enter the Great Hall. She steps aside so he can speak.

"Thank you, Professor McGonagall. First I would like to give my utmost appreciation to Professors Snape and Sprout for successfully curing those who have been petrified."

We all clap.

"Second, it gives me no pleasure to state that Professor Lockhart will no longer teach Defence Against the Dark Arts. Given the short notice of Professor Lockhart's departure, Professor McGonagall made the mutual decision with Professor Gryffindor to have him graciously finish out the term. As the current Headmaster, I will uphold this decision. I am most thankful that Professor Gryffindor has stepped aside from his ambassador duties for the sake of your education."

We clap as Jacklin's dad stands up then sits back down. Ah bet all the pure blooded kids think it's a real honor to have a wizard king teach them all this time. Ah still wonder how Jacklin can pass all our final exams since she missed all this class time. Sure she's smart but even she can't learn all that stuff by the end of the year.

"With that being said, let us all celebrate the success of the Cure For Petrification Potion and the eventual return of those who were attacked."

We all cheer as we start to eat. Scott did such a good job with the potion that Ah could just picture him lookin at his station while he worked. In my mind he looked like he was doin what it took to make sure his potion was a success. Ah look over at Ravenclaw and can see how tired he is. He probably worked through nights to get it done. He should get an award for it.

"What are ya thinkin bout, Toby?"

"That Scott oughta get an award for helpin the teachers. House points just ain't enough. He saved lives."

"How do ya figure?"

"If he didn't tell me how the Basilisk was, Ah wouldn't've had a clue on how to kill it."

Ah take a bite of food.

"But ya said that Scott only told ya what it was. How did that lead to ya knowin how to kill it?"

"Cause it's a giant snake. Ah know Ah got lucky by havin Fawkes take out the eyes, but Fawkes brought Godric's sword. When Lockhart went out... Ah didn't have a plan. But once Ah saw the sword Ah had what Ah needed."

"Ah don't get it."

"Snakes die when their head gets cut. So if a Basilisk is basically the same type a creature, then cuttin its head off oughta kill it too."

Holly shudders just like Jacklin does when we talk bout snakes.

"Ah think we should just go back ta eatin, Toby."

"Ok Holly."

Time Skip

Since the next day's Saturday Ah spend some time on my Copernicus scroll. Holly studies Potions next to me when McGonagall comes in.

"Mr. Kwimper you are wanted by the Headmaster."

Ah don't say anything as Ah follow McGonagall. Ah wonder what more Dumbledore'd want outta me. He looks happy to see me once Ah come in so maybe Ah won't be in trouble.

"Ah, Mr. Kwimper. I understand this year was quite chaotic for you and your family. I recently finished some discussions with Professors Gryffindor and McGonagall about the matter and have decided that I would like to hear more. There are some questions I would like to ask you. If you can have a seat, please."

"Yes sir."

Ah sit down in the chair by Fawkes' nest.

"What's the first question for me?"

"How was Fawkes able to find you in the chamber?"

Ah try to remember how it went.

"Ah was right in here since Professor McGonagall wanted a plan on how to save Holly. Fawkes looked sad so Ah told him Ah was goin to find Holly and help Professor Lockhart kill the Basilisk. That made him feel better. Then when Ah was sayin my last words, Ah wanted to ask Godric a couple more questions and say goodbye to Fawkes. That's when Godric's paintin told me that Ah was lucky to have someone like you to help me be a good wizard and to have Fawkes' loyalty. Ah guess since the openin to the chamber didn't close behind me Fawkes was able to fly right in."

"I see. That would explain why Fawkes came to you. Only an act of true loyalty to me and to the school can call him to you. It is obvious that your ability to speak with Fawkes has helped you survive such a terrible event."

"But why did he bring me the Sorting Hat with a sword in it?"

Dumbledore strokes his beard.

"The Sword of Gryffindor is one of the most powerful weapons in our history as it was made by the most skillful Goblins of his time. Goblin magic is very different than our own as objects made with it are practically indestructible. Since Godric often ends up in my own office, he must have asked Fawkes to bring you the Sorting Hat. Only a true Gryffindor at heart can use his sword as Godric valued bravery in the face of danger for the sake of protecting others. You demonstrated that exact value when you faced the Basilisk. Therefore, it stands to reason that he made that order believing that you truly had the courage to fight against such evil."

Ah can't even speak. Godric actually believed in me.

"In another matter, regarding how the mystery was solved, who do you think is responsible?"

Ah wonder what he means because he should already know Snape and Sprout made the potion and that Ah killed the Basilisk. Then Ah figure it out.

"Well it's like Ah said in the Hospital Wing. Jacklin should get some credit. She had the paper that said it was a Basilisk. Scott from Ravenclaw too. He thought my idea of usin the Mandrakes would work so he was the one who helped the professors make the potion."

"Indeed. Is there anyone else that you think is responsible for solving this mystery? Even if it might seem like the smallest of acts, it is often those small acts that make the biggest difference."

Ah have a feelin he knows somethin Ah don't. Ah try to think through how we managed to figure it out. Then Ah remember how Ah even got the paper in the first place.

"Ah remember now that Jodie from Slytherin was right behind Jacklin when she got attacked. He knew she had the paper about the Basilisk in her hand. He told me bout it and that's how Ah knew to take it from her. Ah never would've found out that she figured out what the monster was if he didn't tell me she had it."

"I see."

Ah start feelin nervous.

"Are we in trouble for goin around your rules?"

"No. I would say that saving your sister from the clutches of a horcrux created by Voldemort is quite the exception if our protocols were broken. As for the other students, neither myself nor any professors specifically caught one of you breaking the rules. Therefore, I see no reason to impose any form of punishment to anyone."

"Not even Holly?"

"Her actions were not her own. It would be cruel of me to punish her when she had already suffered by his power for so long."

Ah can only nod.

"Is there anythin else Ah need to answer?"

"Yes. How do you believe Miss Kwimper was able to enter and exit the Chamber of Secrets undetected?"

"Well... he could read Holly's thoughts. So he knew Ah had the..."

Ah lean in close since Dumbledore can keep this BIG secret a secret.

"Invisibility cloak."

Dumbledore don't look too shocked so Ah keep goin.

"We don't have the same schedule so she could spend almost the whole day without me seein her. Boys dorms don't have the same charm like the girls do so she's able to go in and out of my room no problem."

Ah take a breath. My words feel a little less untangled.

"Since a Basilisk can change size Ah guess through Holly, Voldemort had her use Parseltongue to tell it to be real small. Then she would just hide it until it was time to attack. Now that Ah think about it, the blood on the wall sayin the chamber was open was because Voldemort wanted to see how powerful his hold on Holly was. If he could get her to hurt herself, anythin can happen."

Dumbledore says nothin. Ah don't blame him and Ah know not to feel nervous since he already said Ah ain't in trouble.

"Thank you, Mr. Kwimper. You may return to your Common Room."

Ah nod again and go taoleave his office but stop. The memory of Godric's sword bein covered in gross stuff upsets me a little bit. Ah just have to tell him.

"Um, is it important for you to know that Godric's sword got Basilisk venom and some blood on it?"

Dumbledore looks at me.

"Why yes. That is indeed a very important piece of information to share. How exactly did that sword end up in a Basilisk's mouth?"

"Oh. Ah uh. Stabbed it in the head with the sword. Ah didn't mean to though. The Basilisk bit me and one of its fangs got stuck in my arm. Ah took sword outta its mouth and Ah guess the venom under the fang got on it with its blood."

"As for the diary you say it was a horcrux, so how were you able to destroy it?"

Ah look at the diary on his desk and point at the holes.

"Tom said Ah was gonna die from the Basilisk venom. Ah remember feelin so mad bout the whole thing, Ah just started stabbin the diary until Tom's ghost was destroyed. Ink was everywhere every time Ah stabbed it but it didn't get on the sword."

"I see."

Ah have no idea on what to make of that.

"Is that... bad?"

"No. Thank you for telling me, Mr. Kwimper. Help yourself to something from my counter of sweets."

"Thank you sir."

Ah nod and leave his office for real. Ah got candy out of this so this was a great day.

Time Skip

It's now June and Ah'm real worried about Jacklin. She's been stayin up late studyin in her hospital bed just so she don't fail the exams. It ain't fair to be doin this since she's got so much work to do to catch up on months a schoolin.

"May I have your attention please."

Dumbledore has an announcement and Ah have no idea on what he could want to say now.

"First, I would like to announce that all of the petrification victims have been released from the Hospital Wing. Will you please give them all a round of applause."

Ah go to cover my ears with how loud it is. Ah'm still real happy to see Jacklin and all the other petrified kids come into the Great Hall. Jacklin gives someone a wave and Ah have no idea who it's for.

"Yes welcome back everyone. I am sure that you all have been doing your best to catch up with your class work."

Definitely true with Jacklin but Ah wonder where it's goin.

"However, due to the large volume of information you will all need to catch up with, I have made a very important decision. All exams will be cancelled. Instead, you will be spending these last weeks catching up. I believe with the help of your professors and fellow students, you will successfully complete your coursework."

Wow. All our exams are cancelled. Ah wonder what that'd mean for our grades.

"I am well aware that our Fifth and Seventh year students are concerned about how this will impact their Advancement Exams. But rest assured, this will not hurt you in any way. In fact, I personally guarantee that all students who help these victims get up to speed will be given all O's."

Everyone cheers and Ah feel relieved that Jacklin won't need to worry about failin just because she missed about 2 months of classes.

"Once again, will you please give a round of applause to Madam Pomfrey, Professor McGonagall, Professor Sprout, Professor Snape and Professor Gryffindor for doing all they can to help out in these trying times."

We all clap as the adults stand. As they sit down Ah start to wonder how this'll go down. Jacklin's dad's a teacher now for the rest of the year. It's still a good thing we don't got exams anymore though. Ah don't want the other kids to think Jacklin's gettin special treatment just because she's his daughter.

"And now I release you all to enjoy your breakfast."

As soon as he finishes talkin Ah start fillin my plate.

"Jacklin how come it took ya so long ta get released from the Hospital Wing?"

"I was very weak when I woke up, Holly. We all were. I didn't want you to worry, but there were days that I couldn't walk without having my legs shake. Not even the potions Madam Pomfrey gave us helped."

"Wow. No wonder it took ya so long. If she didn't even know how to help ya get better, it must've been bad. But it don't matter now cause yer alright, Holly's alright, we're all alright."

"That's right, Toby. All that's left to do is finish this year and catch up with what we missed."

Ah start to eat knowin everythin's better now.

"But Ah do wonder bout some things. How'd Voldemort know where to find the chamber? Just cause he speaks Parseltongue don't mean he knows everythin."

"My only guess is that the Slytherin family passed such knowledge down so that it can one day be used. Perhaps his mother's family, the Gaunts kept archives of their own. If grandfather truly believes that the Basilisk was meant to be used for good, it would be important to have each descendent know. That way if the castle was attacked, the Heir of Slytherin could use it to protect us."

"That sure wasn't what Voldemort wanted to use it for. Then there's what ya said bout a horcrux. If somethin like that's so bad, how's he able to know bout it? He even knew the spell and everythin."

Jacklin thinks and Ah wonder just how bad this would be.

"Outside of him being adamant regarding the narcissistic goal of immortality to the point of searching the entire Restricted Section, I have no idea."

"Ya mean like you and Scott doin all that research?"

"Well the method would be the same."

Ah go back to eatin.

"As for Professor Lockhart, I have a theory."

"What?"

"He might have been using this situation with Holly and the Basilisk as a means of eliminating everyone who suspected him. Does that mean he was working directly with Voldemort to willingly use Holly as his new body? I don't know. Could he have been controlled by Voldemort to possibly use himself for Voldemort's new body? I don't know that either."

Ah just shake my head.

"Good thing he don't remember now. We'd just end up havin more questions than answers."

"Indeed, Toby. Indeed."

Ah'm about to start eatin again when Ah have one last thought.

"Now me hearin the Baslisk like it was in mah head. What's all that about?"

"I personally thought it had something to do with the pipes. But based on what you told me, I don't think that's true anymore."

"Lockhart didn't seem to believe me when Ah said Ah heard somethin."

Jacklin takes a sip a juice.

"Do you think he was behind it and tried to throw you off his track?"

"Ah got no idea. Probably. He kept makin off like Ah wasn't all that smart when Ah was in detention."

"I see. Either way. I don't think we'll ever know the truth."

"Yeah."

After gettin everythin untangled Ah finally feel good to eat.

Time Skip

After spendin my time goin over class stuff with Jacklin, Ah get why Dumbledore cancelled our tests. Ah realize it's because by helpin all the petrified kids catch up it's like we're showin them what we know. It's exactly the same thing as a test so it'd be weird to have us doin this only to give us another set of tests. Now that we're goin into the last day of school, Ah need to get this out of my chest.

"Jacklin. How do Ah ask ya somethin without comin off like Ah'm insultin Dumbledore?"

"What do you mean? How could you possibly insult Headmaster Dumbledore?"

"Well... He's supposed ta be this great wizard who's real smart. So how come he couldn't figure it out when you and Scott could?"

Ah said it. Now Ah got to face what's about to come next.

"Headmaster Dumbledore has a lot of responsibilities that we students simply don't have which takes up a lot of time. Even though he probably tried to find the answer, he probably couldn't spend as much time compared to Scott and I."

"Oh. Phew. Ah thought Ah was gonna be in trouble for makin it seem like he was a dummy for not figurin it out."

"Yes it definitely was a smart move to ask me as opposed to Headmaster Dumbledore. Besides, without actually seeing the monster, our search only succeeded because of quite frankly, dumb luck. While a big part did come down to me trusting the connections you made, we were still doing a lot of guess work."

Ah nod as we start headin to the Great Hall. Goin into our end of the year feast, Ah feel like Jacklin not only caught up but still managed to know more than me. For some reason that surprises me and doesn't surprise me. Jacklin learns faster than me. Ah can live with that. Means we're normal again.

"Another year has come and gone. I would like to congratulate the Seventh Year students for completing their studies with us. As you know, the ceremony for you all will take place tomorrow morning."

We all clap cause the 7th year kids did a good job helpin all the petrified kids catch up.

"This was quite an eventful year and due to numerous events being cancelled I have decided to award the winner of the House Cup in an equally unorthodox manner."

Ah raise m6 eyebrow at that. What's he able to award points for if just about everythin got cancelled?

"But first, I believe we should review the current tallies. In 4th place with 324 points is Hufflepuff."

Ah feel bad about Hufflepuff bein in 4th. Not bein able to win a Quidditch game before it got cancelled really hurt them.

"In 3rd place with 387 points is Slytherin."

Ah look over at their table and Jodie looks annoyed. Ah think it's because he thinks Gryffindor cheated so we'll win again.

"In 2nd place with 435 points is Gryffindor."

Ah think everyone's shocked that we ain't in 1st. Probably bcause everyone thought Dumbledore would've already gave me an Jacklin points. Jacklin's dad bein a teacher didn't help since they thought he'd just give Jacklin so many points just for existin. But Ah'm glad he showed he can be fair.

"Finally in 1st place with 489 points is Ravenclaw."

Surprisingly everyone claps at least a little for them. Ah guess that means we don't really have a big rivalry with them. Then again it does make sense since Ah remember Ravenclaw kids would answer a lot of questions for points. Jacklin bein gone in our classes let them get more chances.

"Now because all exams have been cancelled, I can not award points for the best students in each class. However, I would like to award points to the students who have graciously volunteered to help our professors solve this mystery and find a cure to those who have been petrified."

Slytherin starts mutterin because they think they know Dumbledore'll give me like a million points for killin the monster. Vince especially's lookin at me like he hates me. Ah almost don't even don't even want the points so we win. Ah mean it'd be nice to win again but Ah don't want it like this if other kids think it ain't fair.

"As you all know, this student performed a great service to the school by personally slaying the Basilisk and saving his sister. Therefore, I would like to award 50 points to Mr. Toby Kwimper."

Gryffindor cheers and Ah'm amazed Ah only got 50 points when Jacklin got 100 points last year for fightin Quirrell. Ah mean sure she did a lot just to not die after settin the whole room on fire, but so did Ah. Ah would've died from the Basilisk venom if Fawkes didn't cry on my arm.

"Of course, if it were not for one student who was committed to finding the monster, Mr. Kwimper would have never been able to defeat it. Therefore, I would like to award 50 points to Miss Jacklin Gryffindor."

Ah clap because Ah knew she'd get points. At least we got an equal number this year since he's right that Ah wouldn't have been able to kill it if Jacklin didn't have the paper.

"Moving onto finding a cure, this student had spent more time to finding one than their own studies. Had it not been for this student, it is likely that these victims would have remained petrified for a significantly longer amount of time. Therefore, I would to award 100 points to Mr. Scott Heyward."

Everyone's shocked that Scott got more points than Gryffindor since they all thought Dumbledore liked our House better. Still everyone claps because Scott did somethin that was very important. Like sure Ah killed the Baslik but it wouldn't mean anythin if everyone was still petrified. Killin it clearly didn't turn them back. He still should get a medal of some kind though.

"Finally, I would like to acknowledge that no good deed shall go unrewarded no matter how small it may seem. While these previous students have performed great acts of loyalty, wisdom and bravery, it was because of one student making one small gesture that made it all possible. Therefore, for showing a level of respect to their fellow students in the face of the inter-House rivalry by ensuring their hard work was put to good use, I would like to award 10 points to Mr. Jodie Tatum."

Some of Jodie's friends cheer and pat them on the back. He looks shocked and Ah realize exactly what Dumbledore meant when he said that earlier. Jodie doin that one thing caused a whole bunch of stuff to happen that ended up savin everyone. And he only got 10 points for it.

"I believe if my math is correct, Ravenclaw remains in 1st place with 589 points!"

Ravenclaw cheers that they won somethin. Hufflepuff's still bummed about not gettin any points but Ah think they're glad it was a bit more fair. Ah look up and see Jodie lookin at me before he looks away. Ah think we're fair and square now because Ah could've swore he looked happy. And that's all that matters to me.

Time Skip

After takin my time to pack Ah bring all my stuff downstairs.

"Did you get everything, Toby?"

"Yeah. Ah had to make sure Trevor's tank wouldn't fall over when Ah stacked 'em up."

"Alright then. I can't believe we're already done with our Second year. It feels like it all went by so fast."

Ah walk with Jacklin down to the carriages and realize exactly why it felt fast for her.

"Well ya were petrified. Ah don't even wanna know what it was like for Tim. He was petrified since November and didn't get better till May. That's like 6 whole months that he missed."

"That's true. Pacer was petrified not long after Christmas but for me I wasn't petrified that long at all."

"Oh yeah ya didn't miss much class stuff compared to Tim. Ah felt bad for Holly tryna help him catch up."

As soon as we get outside Ah stop to adjust my cart.

"Are you alright, Toby?"

"Yeah Ah'll be fine. Go on ahead cause this shouldn't take long."

"Very well then. I'll try to save you a seat."

Jacklin goes ahead as Ah fix everythin when Ah hear someone callin my name.

"Oi, Kwimper."

Ah turn and get scared seein Jodie comin up to me.

"How'd Dumbledore know bout me telling you bout that paper?"

"Ah told 'em. He wanted to know who Ah thought helped solve the mystery. So Ah told 'em that if ya didn't tell me bout the paper Jacklin had, Ah never would've went to Scott askin bout it and mention the Mandrakes to him. Ah think since that paper had a lotta information, you tellin me bout it's the reason why everything was fixed. You oughta at least get some credit for doin that."

He looks at me and for some reason he shakes his head.

"Fine."

He then makes his way to the carriages again. Ah try catchin up with my friends and Holly and get in the carriage.

"Jacklin do ya think whatever rivalry we got with Slytherin's gettin better?"

"I would say so. Not necessarily for everyone but I think with some individuals, tensions are easing."

"Ok cause when Jodie got the 10 points for tellin me bout the paper Ah saw 'em lookin at me. Then he noticed that Ah noticed and looked away. He looked.. happy that he got noticed for somethin good. And today when Ah stopped to fix my cart, he asked me why Ah told Dumbledore. When Ah did, he just said fine and walked away. Did Ah say somethin wrong?"

Jacklin thinks for a second.

"No you didn't. I highly believe that Jodie felt so hurt by the inter-House rivalry that a Gryffindor giving him credit for something he did seemed so unheard of."

"That's sad. He shouldn't have had to feel bad just cause he's in Slytherin."

Ah realize that Ah ended up playin a part in that. Ah didn't want to believe Jacklin when she said Jodie didn't hurt her. Ah always thought he'd do somethin bad. Then it turned out Jacklin's dad was payin him to keep Jacklin safe. Ah kinda feel bad now. For once my gut feelin was wrong.

"Why'd yer dad wanna pay someone ta watch ya?"

"Well it's because after our incident with Professor Quirrell, father was a little less than pleased. When I wrote him letters asking about the Heir of Slytherin, he would send replies telling me not to look into it. He said it was too dangerous to be looking into the matter and to leave it to Headmaster Dumbledore."

"He was right though. If Ah didn't have that instinct to tell Pop to buy a mirror for Christmas... ya would've died."

Ah shudder just thinkin about it.

"No matter now, Toby. Everything went back to normal."

"Except Lockhart."

"Yes we'll likely never know with certainty that he willingly gave Holly that diary. Given his condition, he'll probably spend the rest of his days at St. Mungo's."

Ah sigh and look out the window.

"Hold on now. How come yer dad ain't comin with us?"

"Father I believe still has business with Headmaster Dumbledore. He told me my mother will pick me up at the train station. Your Pop actually invited us to your house."

"Wow. Pop never told me that."

Holly pipes in and starts talkin o Jacklin. Ah look over at Pacer.

"Who was yer friend at the Hospital Wing?"

"Oh. Dat vas my friend Deacon. Everyone in Huvlepuv calls him Deke for short dough."

"He ain't from India like you is he?"

"No. He vas born in New Zealand but vas adopted by British parents. Both of them are human but do not care that he is a vizard."

Knowing what Holly went through, Ah'm glad Deke's got lovin parents. Then Ah remember what Pacer was sayin about his momma's side of the family.

"So ya said that yer momma's family's been havin trouble in India. Did any a that get better?"

"Yes. Ve are currently trying to get everyting dey need so dey can move to Leicester."

Ah try to imagine Pacer's family comin here and havin all kinds a good food for their Hindu holidays.

"Ah sure hope they get here safely Pacer."

"Tank you, Toby."

"Do ya think one day we can meet at yer house when it's all takin care of? Pop's got a workin fireplace now."

"Of course you can, Toby. Dis von't happen for another year or so. You can send me an owl vhen you're ready."

Holly looks back at me.

"Where are we goin Toby?"

"Oh Pacer said we can go to his house durin the summer. Ya wouldn't mind do ya Jacklin?"

"Of course not, Toby. If anything I might be unable to go on special trips after what happened. Father might insist I rest during our holiday."

"Alright then."

Once we get to the train Ah start to wonder about Jodie again. His accent don't remind me of an Irish one. Then there's the word "pikey". Jacklin said he seemed to be real mad about it. But Ah guess it don't matter now. Jodie ain't mad at me or Jacklin anymore and Ah don't have anythin to worry about. Maybe Jacklin's momma can make us moussaka when we get home. Yeah. Moussaka sounds just right for a day like today.

THE END!

An: Thank you all for following me through book 2. I will let you know when book 3 will be ready. In the meantime if you have any ideas or comments about what I put out so far let me know in the comments.

Tagging: @arrolyn1114, @bioshockpunch, @xanatenshi, @briefpandatimemachine, @hooked-on-elvis,

@vintagepresley, @aliengoth3, @smokeymountainboy, @bigdaddyelvislover, @mercsandmonsters,

@pledgingmylovee, @presleysgirl6, and @elvispresley4life.

#toby and the veela #the chamber of secrets #book 2 is done #hp au jodie tatum #holly jones #hp au pacer burton #hp au scott heyward #jacklin the veela princess

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