The Grindelwalds 1

Part 22

"Why are you scared of yourself?" Asked Richard.

"I-I I don't know."

"What do you mean? You just said you were."

"I-I'm too tired Professor Villarr-"

"Call me Rich, it's easier."

"I'm too tired."

"Alright, tell me another time then. I'm just glad you're awake."

Richard held Luzia's right hand tighter.

"Sto- stop."

"Why?"

"I'm only 11, you shouldn't be doing that."

Richard looked down at his hands intertwined with Luzia's.

"Sorry, I- I didn't mean it like that."

He took his hand off hers.

"I know, but don't do that right now, please."

"It's fine, just tell me how you feel?"

"I'm scared but I can't say why." 

"Please?"

"Hmm." Luzia moaned, she was getting sleepy again.

"I-I-I might be teaching you soon, Professor McGonagall is allowing me to home school you on the weekends at Hogwarts, tell me then."

"I'm going to sleep now..."

"It's fine. Goodnight.

"Don't leave me."

"I won't." He whispered.

Richard watched her. She looked so peaceful. It might seem like he was in love with her, but deep down, Richard Villarreal only cared for Luzia, she was only 11 years old after all. He saw a lot of things in Luzia that he used to see in his ex girlfriend, Kate, before she died. He wanted to protect Luzia the way he failed to protect Kate. He wanted to watch over her forever. He wanted to be the father she should have had, not the murdering, nasty and evil father she had for a measly 3 months of her life.

After a few minutes of Richard staring at Luzia sleeping silently, Sarah came back in.

"Hey, is she asleep again?" Asked Sarah.

"Yes."

Sarah walked in and sat on the chair she sat on earlier.

"So, what did you and Luzia talk about when I was gone?"

Richard composed himself for the first time in hours, he wanted to sound proper and professional when discussing Luzia with her mother.

"We spoke about her educational worries."

"Such as? You told me she does all her work normally in lessons..."

"Yes, but she wondered about the lessons she'll miss while being home schooled so I reassured her that I'd teach her at weekends."

"I see, she must get along with you a lot."

"Well, I'm a good Potions teacher and she is a good student."

"I see."

Sarah didn't understand what Professor Villarreal's deal was. One moment he would act casual and low key and then the next, he'd act like a member of the Royal Family. 'Clearly, this guy has issues.' Thought Sarah.

                                                                                 *

The next day, Benji and Penelope left the hospital wing at Hogwarts and their mum spoke with them in Professor McGonagall in the head teachers office.