Natalie McDonald

The Victory Party

Sun, 04 Nov 2007 00:59:28 GMT

We arrive in the common room and everyone is still shouting. It's easy to get caught up in the excitement. Anthony still has the Snitch and starts to play with it, Caley is being surrounded by well wishers, and Euan is talking animatedly with Jimmy.

"You know you only won cause Slytherin didn't play for your boyfriend."

The smile falls from my face as I turn around. Gwen.

"Get over yourself," I say starting to walk off. Why does she have to ruin a good mood.

She smirks. "Everyone knows that's the reason. Maybe you should try dating the captains of Ravenclaw and Hufflepuff too, then you will win the Cup this year."

All of a sudden I feel Dennis' arms around my waist as he pulls me back from Gwen.

I try to get free, but he holds on tighter.

"Let me go, Dennis," I growl. I am tired of this!

"No," he answers firmly. "She's not worth it, Nat."

I stop struggling, and take a deep breath.

He's right. This is suppose to be a victory party.

I look around the silent common room as everyone watches us. I shouldn't have given Gwen the satisfaction of making me upset.

"Should have know the Golden Captain would have her little fan club to protect her," Gwen drawls as I turn away from her.

Ignore her. Ignore her.

I then hear a slap and turn back around. My mouth drops open. Caley is standing in front of Gwen who is holding her cheek looking stunned.

Gryffindor vs. Slytherin

Sun, 04 Nov 2007 00:52:11 GMT

The morning has flown by. One minute we were at breakfast, and I was trying to get Caley to eat, the next we are making our way down to the pitch and to the locker rooms. I toss my robes over my head, make sure my hair is securely pulled back, and walk into the room where the rest of the team is waiting.

I go over the game plan one more time. This is the most important game of the season, and unfortunately only one of us is going to win.

"Anthony," I say looking at my Seeker. "It's important to catch the snitch as soon as possible."

He nods, and looks a bit nervous. "You'll do great," I smile encouragingly.

I then turn to Jimmy and Euan. "Keep an eye on Caley and Demelza."

They nod as well. "What about you?" Jimmy asks.

I think for a moment. Knowing Mal, he'll aim more at me than usual just to show he is not bias, but... "Them first," I reply.

I then turn to Geoffrey as I hear the crowd getting louder. It's almost time. "Preform like you have been and you'll be brilliant," I tell him. "Ok, team, let's go!"

We walk out onto the pitch. I see Mal and his team coming from their locker rooms. The fourteen of us line up facing each other. Most of them glaring at their counterpart on the other side.

"I want a nice fair game," Professor Weasley says, reminding me of Madame Hooch. "Captains, shake hands."

I hear some of the Slytherins snicker as I walk forward. Mal does the same. We hold out our hands and I notice he puts a little more pressure than normal behind it.

He definitely has his game face on.

Hogsmeade Weekend

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 21:00:55 GMT

"Are you ready?" Ann-Marie huffs.

The girl is seriously getting on my nerves today. She woke up the whole dormroom this morning at 5am wanting us to get ready. Um, no. I don't even make the team get up that early when we have practise.

She's also upset that Bethany is coming with us. Of course if she had her way Caley wouldn't be coming either. I slowly finish tying the scarlet ribbon from Mal into my hair before turning to her, frowning.

"It's not even 8. We meet the boys at 9 in the Entrance Hall," I tell her.

She gives me a look just short of the ones she use to give me before stalking out of the room. I glance over at Caley and notice she seems a little...off. Not even noticing that Ann-Marie has left.

"I'll keep her busy," Bethany says before she too walks out the door.

I nod gratefully and turn back to Caley who is staring blankly at the bed covers. Apparently she and Dennis didn't talk. I briefly wonder if I should owl Megan.

"Caley?" I ask walking over to her.

"Hmm?" she responds. She looks at the bed covers for another moment before turning to look at me.

I hesitate for a second, studying her. I don't want to bring Dennis up, but I also want to give her an out if she wants. "You feel up to going today? You look a little pale," I say finally.

"I guess I didn't sleep well," she shrugs slightly.

"Well, maybe the fresh air will do you some good, if you are up for it," I say, trying a different angle.

"Maybe," she answers and gives me a small smile, but it seems a bit forced.

I walk back over to my bed and slip on my trainers, tying them as I think about the best way to get her to go. Obviously, it's her choice, but... I sigh and look up at her.

"Caley, no one would blame you if you didn't go, but I think you should." I stand up and make sure I have everything. Caley says nothing but I see her watching me. I bite my lip wondering if I should say anything else. "I'm heading to breakfast...Hope to see you down there," I tell her as I walk to the door.

A Talk with Dennis

Fri, 19 Oct 2007 21:06:55 GMT

I stay out on the pitch as the rest of the team goes to the locker room to change. It's been another long practice, but with the first game two weeks away I'm pushing the team hard.

I glance up at the stands and see Dennis sitting alone. I think back to the conversation that I had with Caley yesterday. She won't admit it, but I know she likes him. Making up my mind to talk to Dennis as well, I mount my broom and fly up to where he is sitting. As I land, he gives me a small smile.

"Hi, Natalie," he says looking up at me then glancing back down to the pitch.

"Hey," I say smiling back. "Practicing commentating?" I ask him, sitting down.

"I was a bit," he admits, the tips of his ears turning a bit red, but it fades quickly. "But it won't be hard," he answers. "I can't wait to say Gryffindor wins the Cup this year," he grins.

Him and me both. I only hope it happens. "I'll try my best to make sure you do," I say. Once we get past this first game, I'll feel better. But either way it comes to Mal or I losing.

"I was watching, you'll win," he sounded certain. "That's why it'll be fun to be commentator when Gryffindor plays."

I laugh. "Just don't pull a Lee Jordan. Though it was so much fun to hear him. Luna too."

An odd look crosses his features when I mention Luna, but it passes quickly as he gives a shake of his head. "I just hope people like me. I've never done anything like this before."

"They will. The Headmistress has faith in you and so do I," I say patting his shoulder.

"Thanks," he grins.

I smile back slightly. "So, any plans for Hogsmeade next weekend?" I ask.

He frowns slightly, looking out at the pitch, thoughtfully. "I guess I do. Maybe."

"Maybe?" I asked, surprised. Maybe?

"Well, I think I have plans," he answers as he turns back to look at me. "I just don't really know what they are yet."

Now it's my turn to frown slightly. "What do you mean? Aren't you going with us as always?"

"Aren't you going with Malcolm?" he asks, looking a bit confused.

"Yeah..." I say slowly. That's odd. Of course Mal and I are going together. It was assumed that Dennis and Caley was going with us too. "but thought you would come with us like Caley is."

"I think I will, for at least part of the time."

I inwardly groan. Ann-Marie. "You have plans with someone else?"

"I think I do." Now he is turning a bit red. "Ann-Marie asked if I wanted to 'get a butterbeer or something'," he shrugged slightly.

"Leaving us for someone else." I tease, playfully nudging him.

He gives a small smile. "Well, not leaving for the whole day."

I sigh and roll my broom handle around in my hands. How do you tell your best friend that this is not the right witch for him. "Dennis, I...well, do you like her? I got the impression that you didn't."

"Well..." Dennis starts. "She is a bit odd. She keeps blinking her eyes a lot. And she keeps trying to take my hand. You said that she thought I was cute though. And she's pretty and acting nice."

I can't help but snort. "Yeah now," I mutter. I shake my head. "She likes you, but I have the feeling she is not the only Gryff girl who does..."

"Really?" he asks, looking surprised. "Who else?"

"Now that would be telling, and a Captain always looks out for her team," I say. Besides Caley won't even come out and said. "Is there anyone you would like it to be?" I ask turning the tables on him.

"The team? Is she on the team?" he asks.

Craaaaaaap. "Answer my question first," I say trying to avoid the question.

He shifts, now looking uncomfortable and nervous. "There might be."

I can't help but grin. "Who?" Please let it be Caley.

He shakes his head. "It doesn't matter. She doesn't like me like that."

I sigh. "Dennis, you won't know until you try. You might be surprised..."

He cuts me off.

"What if she doesn't though? Then things could be odd. She doesn't act like she likes me. Not like Ann-Marie does, even though she really should see Madame Pomfrey about her eyes."

"Dennis, I'm pretty sure that Ca- that she feels the same way. And tossing Ann-Marie into the mix, might make things even more awkward."

"I can't just tell Ann-Marie no now, can I?" He sighs.

I shake my head. No, that wouldn't be right and not something Dennis would do. "If you like you can invite her to have that butterbeer with us." I shrug. "See where the day goes."

He nods. "I can ask her," he replies. "I mean, it isn't like a date to Hogsmeade, right?"

"Make sure she knows that. Knowing Ann-Marie she might think it is. I can even invite Bethany to make things less awkward if you want."

He nods. "Thanks." He then falls silents for a moment before asking, "Nat, why are witches so confusing?"

I make a tutting at him. Poor Dennis. "I'd tell you, but then I would have to Obliviate you," I tease.

He chuckles. "And I have a hard enough time remembering what I learned in class as it is."

I laugh.

"Maybe one day you can get the cliff notes version," I tell him. He starts to retort, but movement near the locker rooms draws his attention away. I look and see Caley walk out. She glances toward the pitch then sees Dennis and me. She lifts her hand and waves.

"Talk to her," I tell him gathering my broom and standing up.

"Talk to her?" he repeats, looking from her back to me. "What should I say?"

"You'll figure it out. Just be honest," I say shouldering my broom.

"But..." he starts. "How do you...?"

"Trust me." He looks at me in confusion but nods.

"Are you two coming?" Caley calls from where she is waiting for us.

"Coming!" I yell back. I then turn back to Dennis as he stands up. "I'm hitting the locker room, talk to her!" I shove him playfully towards the steps.

He looks uncertain. "I....maybe," he answers.

We start down the steps. "Dennis, just promise before it's too late you will. She won't wait around forever," I remind him gently.

"She's my best friend," he answers with a slight shrug.

I stop on the landing at the first tier. "And you are both mine. It doesn't hurt to talk and have an understanding. Better than wondering what might have been." I look at him for a moment. "What if I hadn't taken a chance with Mal? He's a Slytherin, and my friend too."

I turn and start walking down the last flight of steps.

"Nat?" Dennis follows after me quickly and touches my shoulder to stop me.

I turn and look up at him, "Yeah?"

"Is she over him?" he asks, his voice sorta quiet.

I think about it for a moment, I am pretty sure I can answer this one honestly. "Yeah, she is."

Dennis gives a sigh of relief, then smiles. "Thanks, Nat."

I return his smile. "Any time, Dennis. You know I'm always here for you." He nods, before we start back down the steps. As we reach the bottom we see Caley standing there waiting on us.

"I'll meet you back at the castle," I tell her. She nods and glances at Dennis, who smiles back at her.

"Bye, Nat," they say together. I smile as I wave and walk off. Watching them, it's so obvious how much they like each other. Maybe, just maybe they can work things out and both be happy.

With that thought in mind, I hurry to go shower and change so I can find a certain wizard that I am overly fond of.

Girl Talk with Caley

Thu, 18 Oct 2007 19:00:30 GMT

I walk into the dorm and see Caley sitting on her bed. She's so lost in thought that she doesn't hear me come in.

"Cal?"

She glances over when she hears her name. "Hi, Nat," she smiles a little. That's not like her. Usually she is very bubbly.

I put my bag down on the bed and look at her. "What's wrong? You look like you lost your best friend."

"Apparently I didn't because you're right here," she replies, smiling to show she is joking.

I don't buy it however. I pull out my wand and cast a silencing charm on the door, hoping that Ann-Marie and Bethany will stay away. "Yes, I am here, so tell me what's up," I say trying again.

"What do you mean?" she asks, feigning innocence, but she diverts her eyes for a moment.

"We have been best friends since first year. I know you, Caley."

She traces a design on her comforter, looking down at that. "I just have some things on my mind," she answers, looking up at me again.

"Obviously," I reply dryly. "And you are not going to practice distracted."

"I'm fine for practice," she answers.

It's not like Caley to be so tight-lipped about stuff, and if how things went at my birthday party is any indication..."It's about Dennis, isn't it?" I ask know she isn't going to bring it up any other way.

"What?" she asks then shakes her head. "What makes you think that?"

I grab my quidditch robes for practise before answering her. "I have eyes, Caley. There was the looks you keep giving him, the way you acted when Ann-Marie said she liked him, the way you both acted the night of my party...want me to go on?" I ask gently teasing.

"He's my friend. One of my best friends," she insists, getting to her feet to get her own robes for practice.

"Yes, he is. Look at me and Mal. Relationships usually start out as friends, right? Caley, I don't think it is just you that has feelings for him, I think he does too."

"You're wrong," she tells me firmly before adding quickly. "Not that I like him as more than a friend."

"Oh, I was mistaken the looks he gave you...the smile he had when you walked back into the room...the way he couldn't get away from Ann-Marie fast enough," I ask with a raised eyebrow trying to prove my point.

"He wasn't trying to get away from her after class," she answers.

"What? What happened after class?" I ask in surprise.

"We usually walk back together, but not this time. I was putting my books back in my bag and in that amount of time, Ann-Marie came over and..." she shakes her head. "I just don't think she's good for him."

"No, she's not." At least we agree on that. "What happened after she walked over?"

"She was complimenting him a lot and then she kept brushing her hand against his. Then she asked him if he would walk with her to her next class. And he said yes. When they were leaving, I heard her mention Hogsmeade," Caley shrugs.

No, no, no, no, no! "Caley, are you a Gryffindor or what?! You have to say something."

"There's nothing to say," she protests. "You were there the other night. She has her sights set on Dennis and I don't think she's giving up."

"And she's not as long as she has a clear field. She is not Dennis' type, but he is a sixteen year old boy, and if a girl like Ann-Marie is paying him attention, he is going to get his head turned. I also know that if he was seeing someone, Ann-Marie wouldn't phase him."

"Maybe, but he's not seeing anyone," she answers.

"Not unless you say something." I sigh. "Maybe you should owl Megan and talk her..."

"Nat, there is nothing to say. Even if one of us did feel something, he's one of my best friends."

Ok, I'm not getting anywhere with her...maybe I can talk to Dennis. "Ok," I say making it sound like I am giving up. I pick up my robes and toss them in my bag. "Come on, we have practice."

She picks up her broom and nods. "And Nat?" She smiles over at me. "Thanks."

I look at her in confusion. I haven't done anything. "For what?" I ask grabbing my own broom.

"Being a friend and listening," she answers then grins in her usual way. "Come on, Captain. It doesn't look good if you're the captain and you're late to practice."

I laugh. "No, it wouldn't. Come on, Jones," I say throwing an arm around her shoulder.

"I'm ready, Captain McDonald," she laughs, giving me a salute.

Grinning, we make our way down to the pitch. I know she'll talk to me when ready and until then I'll just be here for her.

My 17th Birthday

Thu, 11 Oct 2007 03:21:04 GMT

I can't believe that I am of age. Surreal almost.

This morning at breakfast Mum, Dad and Kat sent me gifts with Legolas. I received a heirloom necklace from Mum and Dad that was my Gran's. It's passed down from mother to youngest daughter when they become of age, and since I am of age in the wizarding world, Mum went ahead and gave it to me.

Kat sent me a stuffed cat and a note.

Natbug,
Meet Pandora. I know how much you want a kitten, but she will have to do until you come home for Christmas. I can't believe that my ickle sis is of age! More than that, I hope she knows how much I miss her. We have a lot to catch up on.

Happy Birthday, sis!

Love,

Kat

She's right. We do have a lot to catch up on. There are times when a girl needs her sister as well. It's hard to not be able to talk to her as much as we do during the summer. With her completing Uni this year I'm wondering if things will change between us even more. I hope not.

Overall it's been a nice birthday, I muse as I walk up to Gryffindor Tower. I spent the day with Caley and Dennis. The girls sang to me this morning. It was nice. The only downside has been not seeing Mal. Not even at meals. I frown slightly. It's not wrong to want to see your boyfriend on your birthday is it?

Sighing, I find myself outside the Common Room.

"Password?" The Fat Lady asks.

"Lions for the cup," I tell her.

"Indeed, Miss McDonald," she says swinging open with a smile like she knows something.

I glance at her in confusion for a second before entering. As I do, my mouth drops open.

"HAPPY BIRTHDAY, NATALIE!"

The entire team, Caley, Dennis, rest of the six years, a few other house mates...all crowded around a table with snacks and a banner hanging above it wishing me a happy birthday.

Girl Talk

Sat, 06 Oct 2007 05:02:47 GMT

It's Friday, homework is done, and Caley and I have just finished a long practise. As we walk into our dorm room to put up our brooms away I see Ann-Marie and Bethany sitting on their beds talking. They stop when they see us.

"How was practice?" Ann-Marie asks as Caley and I walk over to our trunks.

"It was good," I tell them. She usually don't care about Quidditch.

"Want to join us?" Bethany asks looking over at us. I've always liked Bethany, and Ann-Marie has gotten better the last couple of weeks.

I glance over at Caley and we have a silent communication.

"Sounds like fun, what are you up to?" I ask.

Bethany grins wide. "Girl talk and junk food," she says indicating the pumpkin pasties, chocolate frogs, and various other snacks.

"That sounds good," Caley grins, sitting down on Bethany's bed.

I sit down next to her and grab a pumpkin pasty. "We miss anything?"

"We were just starting," Bethany answers, then smiles over at Ann-Marie. "She was just about to talk about a certain Gryffindor she had her eye on."

Not sure I really want to know the answer I ask, "Who?"

Ann-Marie blushes then says a name quickly.

"Who?" Caley asks, helping herself to a chocolate frog, managing to catch before it can hop out of her hands.

"denniscreevey," she says in a rush.

I blink in surprise and nearly drop my pasty. I glance quickly at Caley. She looks shocked, after nearly choking on her chocolate frog.

"Dennis?" I ask. Is that why she has been so nice to us suddenly?

"He's a hottie," she says shrugging. Ugh. Not something I wanted to hear about my best friend.

"Dennis?" Caley repeats again. "Like...Dennis?"

"Creevey, yes." She seems almost...giddy?

"Have you told him?" Caley asks.

"Of course not!" She pauses and looks at us. "You two are his best friends. What's he like, really?"

Caley and I look at each other in disbelief. Oh, Merlin. "Um...you've known him for five years. He's...Dennis," I say.

"But you two are closer to him," Ann-Marie remarks.

"Maybe you could both put a good word in for her," Bethany suggests.

The same girl that made my life miserable for 5 years wants me to put in a good word with Dennis? One glance at Caley lets me know she is thinking the same thing.

"I don't know..." Caley starts.

"You're his best friends," Ann-Marie answers. "Please."

"Um...maybe. We'll see."

Ann-Marie glances over at Caley, who pretends to not see it as she taking another snack from the selection. I tried to change the topic to something else. "So what about you, Bethany. Any special wizard?"

"I have my eye on a seventh year," she admits with a smile. "And unlike, some," she glances at Ann-Marie, "we've spoken a bit."

"Who?" I ask grinning.

"He's in a different house," she admits. "Summers, in Hufflepuff."

I remember seeing him around. He does seem nice. "Going to Hogsmeade together?"

"I hope so. He hasn't asked me yet," she answers.

I nod. We have a Hogsmeade trip coming up the Weekend of Halloween. Mal hasn't asked yet, but it is assumed we are going together.

"Maybe we could double," Ann-Marie suggests. "or even triple," she glances at me.

"I dunno. Mal's...not much into crowds," I tell her.

"It doesn't hurt to ask," Ann-Marie answers.

She has a point other than the she seems to dislike him. "I thought you didn't care much for him," I reply.

"Well, now that you two are dating, I suppose I should give him another chance," she shrugs.

My mouth drops open. Why the sudden change of heart?

"So, what do you think?" she asks.

"I'll, uh, ask him," I say still in shock.

"So if I can get you both to put a word in with Dennis..." she looks at me and Caley, hopeful.

"I'll see. No promises," I tell her.

Evening Flights and Talks

Mon, 01 Oct 2007 23:34:58 GMT

I fly up and over, practicing some moves I had the Chasers do yesterday at practice.

With the first game in a month, I'm anxious to prove I made the right choice in who I picked for the team. With my best friend on the team and the first game against my boyfriend, I feel like I have a lot to prove...the game against Slytherin is going to be the hardest I've ever played.

I pick up speed on my broom and round the post.

I know it's getting dark and I should go in like the rest of the team did a while back, but I like being able to fly when I can. It helps me think. We've been back at Hogwarts for a month now and it seems so much longer.

I take a sharp dive and pull up at the last minute and shoot back up.

With everything that's been going on, it's hard to find time alone. Time to think. Time away from the Slytherins. Time away from Gwen and others like her. Time alone with Mal...

I make another zig zag motion and do a barrel roll.

Mal has been sitting with us for meals all week. It's been nice. He's trying so hard to keep from letting the others get to him, and I think the time away from his House-Mates helps.

As I make another dive and dart back up, the sun goes behind the castle. Reluctantly, I decide to take one more lap around the Pitch and head in.

Maybe I can find Mal before curfew...

Potions Class

Tue, 25 Sep 2007 04:12:41 GMT

I make my way down the stair case into the dungeons with Caley and Dennis. We're the only Sixth Year Gryffindors that signed up for N.E.W.T level potions.

"Wonder what we'll have to make today," I ask wrinkling my nose at the thought.

"Hopefully something useful," Caley answers. "We're never going to use half of this once we're out school," she makes a face.

"No. Like when are we ever going to make a love potion...They're not exactly legal are they?"

"It's only illegal if you get caught," Caley corrects me.

"Are you going to try it now?" Dennis asks and Caley turns a bit red then shakes her head.

"Besides, still underhanded," I point out. "Why would you want to trick someone into loving you..."

"Desperation?" Caley shrugs, frowning a bit. "Besides, it wears off."

I shake head at her. It makes me wonder if there is a wizard she wants to try it on. And she never did tell me what she smelled when we did the Amortentia potion. I however smelled new broom, chocolate pudding, and Dr. Pepper.

As we reach the bottom of the stairs I see the person who smells just like that and smile. The three of us line up against the wall behind him, and I lean up and kiss his check.

The other students walking up look like they want to say something, but approaching footsteps stop them. I turn around and see why. Professor McGonagall is walking towards us. We watch in silence as the Headmistress make her way pass us and goes into the classroom.

I wonder what that's about...

Desktops and House Tables

Tue, 18 Sep 2007 00:48:05 GMT

I swear, between trying to figure out these Runes and the glares from Gwen, I am getting a headache. She has not forgiven me for putting Caley on the team over her. She's made snide remarks all weekend to both of us.

Professor Babbling holds up a card, bringing my attention back to class.

"Now class, who can tell me what number this represents and why," she asks.

Sarah, a Ravenclaw, raises her hand. "It's the number six. It's represented by a Salamander because that's how long they can survive out of fire."

"Correct," she replies smiling. "Ten points to Ravenclaw."

Luckily the bell rings at that moment, dismissing us for the day. Thank Merlin!

As I go to leave Gwen walks in and bumps into me sending the contents of my bag everywhere.

"Seems a Chaser could keep a better hold of her stuff," she smirks as she walks on.

I almost say something but bite my tongue as Professor Babbling asks, "Everything ok, Miss McDonald?"

"Yes, Professor," I say as Gwen's smirk gets bigger as she walks to her desk.

Wanting just to get out of there, I quickly gather up everything and just throw it back in my bag. Making sure I haven't missed anything, I hitch my bag onto my shoulder and leave the classroom.

Why is it, if it's not one thing it's another? First the Slytherins because I'm a Muggle-born dating a Pure-Blood, now members of my own house because my best friend happen to be the better flier and made the House team.

Even my best friends seem leery of me and Mal...or maybe shocked. Why is it such a big deal and a surprise to everyone?

Still fuming and muttering to myself, I make my way down the forth floor corridor. Not really paying attention, I suddenly feel a strong hand around my arm pulling me behind a large and medieval looking red and gold tapestry.

Quidditch Tryouts

Fri, 14 Sep 2007 16:46:27 GMT

I scheduled tryouts for today. I don't know why, but after the way the Slytherin tryouts went, my stomach has been in knots. I know several housemates told me they wanted to try out, but...I don't know. Maybe it's nerves. I'm also afraid of letting Gryffindor down, and that I'll be a disaster as a coach.

Swallowing down my anxiety, I make my way to the pitch. I relax slightly however when I walk into the stadium. Demelza Robins and Jimmy Peakes (the only two returning team members) are already there talking with several hopefuls. I then see Caley and Dennis and feel even more confident.

"Nice turn out," Jimmy says as I walk up to them.

"It is," I say smiling slightly.

"So what's the plan, Captain?" Demelza ask.

I go over how I want to break them into groups. Two Chasers, One Seeker, One Beater, One Keeper each. From the looks of it, we have enough for three rotations.

"Jimmy, I want you to keep an eye on the Beaters. Let me know who you think you can work well with. Demelza, same thing but with the Chasers. I'll be watching, but I might miss something. Plus, I'd like your input."

"Isn't your friend Caley trying out," Demelza asks glancing at her.

"Yes, but treat her like anyone else," I reply. Caley wouldn't like getting special attention because she was my best friend.

They both nod, and I go to sort the people wanting to tryout into three teams.

"Geoffrey Hooper, Euan Abercombie, Nathan Reynolds, Vivian Johnston, and Gwen McLead. You're rotation one." They all line up.

Jimmy hands Euan a bat and Vivian takes the Quaffle. They all mount their brooms, and with Demelza leading the way they fly into the air. I release the Bludgers and Snitch as they soar up. Afterwards, I move up the stands and watch them fly for a while.

I have to admit, I am impressed with Euan's flying and the couple of good swats he took at the Bludger. Geoffrey did a great job in keeping Demelza from scoring a goal. He only let one of her five in. Vivian and Gwen, not so impressed with. Vivian kept dropping the Quaffle, and Gwen still seems unsteady on a broom and almost ran into Demelza. And Nathan...there was a time or two he could have caught the Snitch and didn't.

I blow my whistle and call them down. "Good job, everyone." I look at my clip board. "Ok, Second rotation; Heather Chapell, Billy Hancock, Caley Jones, Jeffery Smith, and Robert Popham."

I smile encouragingly at Caley as she joins the others and they take off.

Flying

Sat, 08 Sep 2007 21:09:51 GMT

It’s finally the weekend! After Monday and the run in with the Slytherins, things calmed down some...But I think it’s because others are afraid Headmistress McGonagall will be hiding somewhere and catch them at it.

I can’t say I blame them. She looked furious. I’m thankful she was there before something happened. I’ve never seen Mal so angry before. I know he was trying to protect me, but I’m use to the name calling. I won’t deny that it hurts sometimes, but I am use to it.

I sigh. Things aren’t suppose to be this hard. Why do people have to be so cruel. Why can’t they just leave me and Mal alone. I glance around the empty dorm-room and notice my broom. A flight seems like a wonderful way to clear my head.

Pulling my hair back into a loose ponytail, I grab my broom and make my way to the common room.

There’s not too many other students in here. Most are at breakfast. Except Ann-Marie, who seems to be holding court with some 2nd years. Great. Of course she would be up here.

She hears me enter and looks up.

“You’re not going out like that, are you, Natalie?” she asks smirking, looking at me like she needs to approve how I look.

“Not that it’s any of your business, but yes. I don’t need charms or to put on airs to have friends.”

The words are out of my mouth before I realize it. That’s something I’ve wanted to say for at least two years…

Mal is a bad influence.

Grinning at the thought and the look of Ann’s face, I make my way out of the portrait hole.

I make my way outside and notice various students clustered around in groups, talking and do homework. Some of the more adventurous ones are down at the lake trying to get the Giant Squid to show itself.

As I reach the pitch, the smile on my face gets even bigger. This is one of my favourite things in the Wizarding world.

I mount my broom and kick off. The wind whips my hair around as I zoom up to about forty feet and I let out a whoop.

This is pure freedom…

Back to Hogwarts

Sat, 01 Sep 2007 20:45:12 GMT

The last week has flown by too fast. My talk with mum and dad the day after our…I guess date was not as bad as I expected. They told me that they had become fond of Mal and that he was a nice young man. They even invited him home for the breaks. However, that has not kept them from keeping an annoying close eye on us. It’s not that they don’t trust us. Kat assured me that they did the same thing with her, and her boyfriend wasn’t living with us.

I smile as I close the lid on my trunk. I still can’t get use to that. Mal being my boyfriend.

Speaking of which...he walks into my room. He's been down or the past couple days, and I think I know why.

"Let's run away."

He looks so lost and serious, that for a second I’m tempted.

“Mal, you know we have to go back to school. It won’t be so bad.” I try to smile and convince him, and if I’m honest, myself.

"To get technical...we don't have to," he says as he walks towards me letting a small smile slip onto his face.

Smiles look so good on him, and he doesn’t do it enough. The rest of the thought is cut off as he leans in and kisses me.

As we break apart, our foreheads touch and we stand there for a moment. “Mal, as much fun as running away with you would be, we can’t…Although Beauxbatons sounds nice,” I try to joke and lighten the mood.

He grins a little bigger and closes his eyes, his hand finding mine as he mumbles, "I could get a job in France. I have enough O.W.L.s."

Before I can respond, dad is standing in the doorway and clearing his throat.

We jump apart as he ask, “Ready to go?”

I glance at Mal before nodding my head and grab my trunk from my bed.

"Yeah, uhm, just let me go...grab my trunk, and--" Malcolm flusters out.

I watch him leave, at a loss at what to do to cheer him up. Walls that had been knocked down over the last few days seem to have gone back up. I sigh and follow daddy down the stairs to the foyer.

Diagon Alley, Revisited

Tue, 14 Aug 2007 03:44:57 GMT

Still in my pyjamas, I make my way down the stairs and into the kitchen for breakfast. As I enter, I see Mal sitting there talking with daddy, already eating. As Mal looks up at me, I blush, half tempted to run back upstairs and change. I’m still not used to him being here, though I’m glad he is.

“Morning, dear,” daddy greets me.

“Morning,” I say, making my way over to the counter to make me a bowl of cereal.

Mal smiles slightly at me. The swelling on his face has gone down, and the bruises have turned a sickly yellow.

“Your mum is helping Katie get settled in at school today, so I thought we might go to London this morning,” daddy says getting up.

About to take a bite, I lower my spoon back to the bowl. I had forgotten she was moving back in today. “London? But Katie goes here in Birmingham.”

“I need a few things in Diagon Alley,” Mal says quietly, almost embarrassed.

“That sounds fun,” I say smiling at him.

He looks reluctant. “I’m sure you rather see Katie off...” he begins.

“And pass up a trip to Diagon Alley? Never,” I say reassuringly.

“Son, I told you it’s no problem,” dad says patting him on the shoulder and leaving the room.

Mal looks a little more relaxed. He’s been walking on eggshells over the weekend, and it’s been like pulling teeth to get him to talk. He has to some extent opened up, but I have a feeling he’s not been completely. However, he knows I am here and not going anywhere.

Finishing my own breakfast, I gather up my and Mal’s dishes and put them into the dishwasher. “I’ll go get ready. Shouldn’t take but a minute,” I say leaving the kitchen.

Mal nods and says he may check out the telly again. I grin as I head to my room. I forget how much this must be for him as the magical world was like for me.

A few minutes later I’m dressed and ready to go. As I go to enter the living room, the doorbell rings. I go and answer it to see a stuffy looking woman standing there.

“Miss McDonald?” she asks formally.

“Yes, I’m Natalie…”

She glances at the clipboard in her hands.

“I am Lucinda Poole from the Ministry. I wish to speak to you and Mr. Baddock. We have intelligence that he is now here?”

A Visit with Malcolm

Fri, 10 Aug 2007 01:09:21 GMT

I take aim and throw the football as hard as I can through the tire swing. Even with Kat pretending to be Keeper, it goes in smoothly.

Ten points to Gryffindor!

“You’re pretty good, Nattie.”

I can’t help but grin. “Thanks. I still can’t believe I was made Captain,” I say shaking my head in disbelief.

She tosses the football back to me. “You’ll do fine,” she says reassuringly.

“The first game is going to be awkward,” I continue, thinking about going against Mal as captain.

Kat smirks at me. “Speaking of which, have you heard from Mr. Baddock yet.”

“No,” I say, blushing. “Besides Rok only went home this morning.”

“And Leggie is still not back,” she replies.

“Probably out hunting, and don’t call him that.”

“Sure,” she says, teasingly. “Come on, it’s too hot out here.”

Agreeing, I tuck the ball under my arm and race her to the house.

As we enter the kitchen, I toss the football by the door and kick off my shoes.

Kat grabs a couple of glasses from the cabinet, while I get the juice from the icebox.

“How’s Derek?” I ask, glad for the chance to turn the tables on her.

“Going on a date Friday actually,” she replies taking a sip of her drink.

So not fair. Not even a blush!

“A date?” mum asks, entering the kitchen.

“Yes, to the cinema and out to dinner,” she replies.

“Nattie, put your shoes up,” she gently chides. And that’s my queue to leave.

“Yes, mum,” I reply, setting my glass done on the counter.

I grab my shoes and the ball and head towards my room. I take the steps two at a time, and as I reach the top, the doorbell rings.

A trip to Diagon Alley

Sun, 05 Aug 2007 04:55:51 GMT

"Nattie!" mum calls up the stairs. "Hurry up! We need to go to Diagon Alley today to get your school things."

Merlin! I forgot that was today!

"Coming, mum!" I yell, as I jump out of bed and run to the shower.

Fifteen minutes later, I am pulling my hair into a ponytail and running down the steps.

As I reach the bottom step, I almost collide with my sister, Katie.

"Whoa, there, Natbug," she says, catching me.

I raise an eyebrow at her. She hasn't called me that since I got my Hogwarts letter five years ago.

"What are you doing here?" I ask her.

"Dorms not ready, so I thought that I would go shopping with my wee little sis," she replies smirking.

As I go to pounce on her, mum walks in. "Natalie Marie!"

"Yes, mum?" I give my best innocent look.

Mum clucks her tongue before smiling at me. "If you girls are finished, we have to get going," she says kindly.

"Yes, ma'am," we chorus together; like we are five and ten, not sixteen and twenty-two.

The three of us, along with daddy, climb into the car and we make the two and a half hour trip, singing songs and talking about the upcoming school year (my sixth year at Hogwarts, and Kat's final year at University).

Arriving at Charing Cross, daddy parks the car near the Phoenix Garden, and we make our way to the Leaky Cauldron.

Once inside, and after our eyes adjust to the dim light, I look around to see if I recognize anyone.

Not seeing Mal, Caley or Dennis (not that I really expected to. Mal and Dennis are going next week to get supplies, and I haven’t heard from Caley in weeks) I nod towards Tom and lead the way to the back exit and into the ally.

Once outside, I pull out my wand and tap the correct bricks. The wall rearranges itself, leaving an archway for us to go through.

“I love watching that,” Kat muses as we walk through.

“That was nothing.” I grin. I really am lucky in the fact that my family has been so supportive of me. Kat could have been jealous of the fact that I was a witch, or worse think of me as a freak. She was actually the one who told me to go for it when Professor McGonagall came to explain everything to us.

“Just think, in a couple of months you’ll be able to use magic anytime,” she says looking into the window of Eeylops Owl Emporium. “Leggie needs treats, doesn’t he?” she adds.

“It’s Legolas. You know I hate that nickname,” I reply pulling a face. “And yes he does, but I need to go to Gringotts first.”

By mid-afternoon, my moneybag light, and my arm weighted down with packages, we decide to stop at Fortescue’s for ice cream.

As I sit down with my Cherry-Chocolate chip cone, I hear “Natalie?” from behind me.

I turn around and see my dorm-mate. “Hi, Ann-Marie,” I greet. I’ve never liked Ann. She thinks she is little miss perfect…

“Did you hear about the duel a couple of weeks ago right here?” she asks excitedly.

…and has no tact.

I can see the colour drain from my mum’s face. “Duel?” she whispers.

“Oh, yes,” she says conversationally, turning to mum. “Lots of people got hurt. A couple of them even died.”

I gasp, and hear it echoed by mum and Kat.

“Oh, no one we know,” she says reassuringly. “Not like when the Death Eaters invaded Hogwarts our third year.”

I can feel mum and dad looking at me.

“Well, I must be off,” she says cheerfully and walks off towards an older boy, I don’t recognize.

“Natalie?” I hear daddy say.

I think it’s time I told my parents everything.