The Dursley Girl

C. 35 The Finale

Two Years Later

"Today's the day!" Rose exclaims as she sits down next to me in the Great Hall. I was the first one to arrive for breakfast today, I woke up extra early. I assume it was because of my nerves.

"I know," I sigh. "Can you believe it's all coming to an end?"

"I can. I feel like I've been studying for ages, I can't wait to actually go into the world and- and make something of myself!" She says excitedly, barely able to speak. I smile at her enthusiasm. I already know that once we graduate she'll be off doing great things in the blink of an eye.

"Good morning, ladies!" Albus grins at us, arriving at our table. Next to him is Scorpius, of course.

I offer Scorpius a small smile, trying my hardest not to give away the events of last night to the others. We've decided to wait until after graduation to tell them, not wanting the shock to take away from their graduation.

"Aren't you excited? I'm excited," Rose continues.

"Yeah, we can tell," Scorpius says.

"I'm just glad I made it this far," Albus says, reaching for a croissant.

I zone out as the three of them begin talking about today and the excitement. I began to think about my first years here at Hogwarts, and how far I've come. I realize there was something I almost forgot to do before I left for good.

"Lannah? Hello?" Albus waves a hand in front of my face, trying to get my attention.

"Sorry, I have to go do something," I say, excusing myself from the table.

I walk out of the Great Hall taking the same route I did in my First Year when I accidentally stumbled upon-
"Fred!"

"Lannah! Long time no see my friend," he grins at me through his portrait.

"Sorry, I've been so busy. With school coming to an end and all."

"Right, of course. Is today Graduation Day?" He asks.

I nod.

"I see... I never went to mine. You know, considering I left a few years too early." He smiles to himself as if remembering his time at Hogwarts. I remember the stories he told me about leaving school early to open a joke shop with his brother, George. It still runs today, Ron and George run it.

I remember why I came and take a moment to gather my thoughts.
"Fred, I just wanted to say... thank you."

"For what? You know, besides sacrificing myself for the good of the Wizarding World and all," he jokes.

I smile at him before continuing,
"Well, when I first came across your portrait, you were really all I had. It was Christmas during my first year, and I didn't go home. I was angry with my parents and I was alone here during the Holidays," I explained. "My friend had all gone home, and you gave me company and made me feel less alone. You were truly one of the things that made Hogwarts begin to feel like home. So thank you. Thank you for being here."

"I suppose I didn't have  much choice, seeing as I am a painting who can't move," he laughs. The grin then shifts to a sincere smile and his tone becomes serious. "I'm truly glad I was able to help, even slightly." There's a moment of silence until he asks, "And your parents, are you still angry with them?"

I pause and think for a moment. Ever since I got that letter when I was eleven, my relationship with my parents has been less than ideal. My father tries to understand, sure, but still. He doesn't get it. And my mother... I don't think she could ever be proud of me.