They call me a criminal

Chapter 66

The next morning I met up with everyone to attend our detention today. Everyone whose name was on the list was forced to come. I took a seat towards the back, turning my head as George and Fred took seats on either side of me. "Clara, hear me out," George whispered. I met his eyes, "fine." He nodded, "I don't know what it's like to go through anything that you're going through right now. However, we never wanted to hurt you. I know what it looked like when Angelina kissed Fred, but I promise you, he did not kiss her back." I looked at Fred who gave me a small smile, "I believe you. But I can't be in a relationship right now. You were right to break up with me."

I winced as I began to write the instructed lines, watching as the words were carved into my hands with small drops of blood trailing down to my wrists. "Times up." Umbridge smiled from the front of the room. I immediately stood up hurrying out the door to the closest bathroom. I ran my hands under cold water relieved as it took away some of the stinging.

After dinner I made my way to the common room for once sitting down by the fire staring into the flames. "You okay?" Fred came and sat down beside me. "I'm fine." He sighed, "do you really believe me when I say I didn't kiss her back? Because it's true Clara. I couldn't do that to you." I met his eyes, "I meant it when I said I believed you." He nodded, "I'm sorry it happened. The last thing I wanted to do was hurt you even more." I shrugged, "I'm fine. Honest." He gave me a small smile, "I know this probably doesn't mean anything to you, but I love you and that will never change." I bit my lip, "I love you too. But we're living very different lives, and I can't be with someone right now." He nodded, "I understand."

  I leaned back, "I wish it were different, truly Fred." He sat back with me, "me too Clara. But you're right. I'm graduating this year, it just wouldn't work." We sat in silence for another minute before he pointed at my books, "am I keeping you from studying?" I shook my head, "no, my grades are shit anyway." He smiled, "now that I am familiar with." Fred squeezed my hand, "you're going to be alright, you know that, right?" I sighed, "I want to believe that, but right now that seems impossible."

I stayed on the couch and to my surprise Fred did too. He even pulled out his own books pretending to study with me. "You don't have to stay here Fred," I whispered. He smiled, "just because we're not dating doesn't mean you're not still my best friend." I sighed taking relief in this. "Thank you."

Before I went to bed that day I decided I should write home.

Dear Remus and other,
I talked to Fred again today. We decided it would be best to be friends. I tried to do more school today, it was hard. The OWLs are coming up soon, and I'm still struggling to find the point. I know I've said this a million times but I would much rather be at home with you guys. That really is the only place I feel safe. I love and miss you loads.

When the day finally came to write the owls I reached my hand up as a letter came down to me at breakfast.

Dear Clara,
I wish you the best of luck with your OWLs, you're a smart girl I know you'll do your best. It's almost time to come home it will be over soon. I love you, and can't wait to see you once again my dear.

I kept quiet at breakfast doing my best to keep it hidden how terrified and unprepared I truly was. "I'm going to take a quick walk," I whispered to Hermione. Once I was out in the hallway I took a deep breath trying to steady my hands. "Clara?" I looked up as Snape and Draco both stoped in front of me. "Morning," I answered. "You look awfully nervous," Snape relied. "I just think these tests are stupid." He nodded, "I see. Do your best. Draco walk her to the OWLs, I want to make sure there are no escape attempts."

I smiled at Draco as Snape left. "Are you an escape artist as well?" I laughed, "yes I should add that to my resume." He nudged me, "wow a murderer and an escape artist. Remind me why we became friends again." I shrugged, "because we're the only people who understand each other." He agreed, "who would've thought."