It came two weeks later.
A soggy barn owl flew through his kitchen window, dropping off several packages.
"Thank you, Crumbs." She gave a warning hoot, as he opened the package all too late.
"CHARLES WEASLEY! HOW DARE YOU!" His mother's shrill voice filled the cottage. "Not only is my son engaged, but I had to hear it through the grape-vine! I hope you're very happy hurting us this way! Now, you will make arrangements to meet us all for Christmas, and you will be there with your bride to be or else!"
The letter turned itself to the woman, who stood shocked at the kitchen counters. His mother's voice softened.
"We'll be delighted to meet you, dear. I'm sure you'll have been well worth the wait."
The letter tore into itself, and Eden let out a sigh.
"That was positively dreadful."
"I should've considered she might hear the news. No matter."
"How is she going to act when you tell her that this is a rouse to keep me here?"
"I suppose I won't have to for awhile. We can say we wish to marry here, since it'd be harder for everyone to make it."
"I see."
She'd been mostly to herself of late, as he showed her what he'd learned in his years of study. Her body language told him she was unimpressed. He wondered what secrets she'd uncovered in her dragon form.
Charlie had become used to Eden's presence. Used even to calling her Guinevere and showing her around.
The sleeping arrangements had been less than desirable. He rolled his neck, aching bones cracking. The last thing he wanted to do was to sleep on that infernal, lumpy couch.
Lightning shocked the night. He caught her jump at thunder.
"I think I'll turn in early."
He spent the time alone lamenting. How could he possibly keep the charade once they were all together? His family were bound to figure them out.
Dozing off as he read the papers, something tapped him awake.
"Charlie?" He sniffed, rubbing his eyes. "Someone's knocking."
As if on cue, three rasps set him on his feet. He glanced at the clock.
"At this hour?" She gave a shrug, heading for the door.
"Why don't you put on a pot of tea and wake yourself up?"
He shuffled toward the kitchen, doing as she'd suggested.
"Hello," Eden greeted warmly as she opened their home to the visitor. "Ghastly weather to be out in." The rain soaked hood fell to the floor.
"Get back!" Charlie shouted for her, but the stranger had grabbed hold. Aiming a glowing wand at her throat, the man threatened.
"I'm going to take the woman now for a walk. You will see you have no objection in the matter."
"Lower your wand. We can be civil about this."
"Stay back, Weasley. No one has to get hurt."
The voice became familiar to him. Underneath the man's beard, he saw a jealous boy. A broken wizard.
"How are you here?" Eden clearly recognized him too now.
Charlie was willing her to change forms.
It'll all be over if you change!
YOU ARE READING
Shadow and Flame
Fanfic***Newly Revised*** After receiving a mysterious letter, Charlie Weasley is prompted to head back to Hogwarts. A girl has been missing for years, the case shrouded in a mystery only he can solve. Will the shadows of the past overtake him? Or will th...
