The Family that Chooses You

Chapter 30: Famine to Feast

The fire flared up, turning bright green.  It filled the large hearth and out stepped a figure from the dancing flames.  They showed no sign of discomfort, no pain from the fire or the heat.  They stood on the grate in front of the fireplace, brushing soot and ash from their clothes.

Molly smiled at the visitor, stepping towards them from the kitchen.  "Oh hello Angelina, so good of you to visit."

Angelina smiled.  "Hi Mrs. Weasley!  Good to see you."  She liked the Weasley Matriarch.  Mrs. Weasley had the ability to make people feel at ease, even the first time meeting them.  She acted as if she had known you for a long time, that you would be well looked after.  Plus any woman that could handle the twins, much less all the Weasley children, had to be formidable.  "Thank you for allowing me to visit."

Molly waggled her wand, collecting the ash from Angelina and tossing it back into the hearth with a flick of her wrist.  "Anytime dear.  How are you parents?"

"Doing well thank you.  Mum wished she could visit but something came up at work.  She sent this and hopes to see you for tea soon."  Angelina handed over a tin of tea leaves.

"Oh how sweet of her.  I do like this blend.  Tell her she's welcome for a cup and a chat whenever.  How are your brothers?"

"Irritating but tolerable."

Molly snorted.  "No wonder you get along with my lot.  Speaking of, they should be convening at the orchard."  She smiled, noticing that Angelina had brought her broom.  "They're all scattered about at the moment but will be there soon.  They wanted to finish their chores before spending the afternoon doing more fun things."

Angelina grinned.  "Seems they learned to do their work first then?"

"About time really.  Normally I have to nag them a bit but thankfully lately that doesn't seem to be the case."  Molly noticed Angelina looking around.  "Harry's out on the grass.  He likes to be outside during the day."

The tall girl blushed slightly, she did not think she was that obvious.  "Thanks."  She hesitated.  "How is he?" she asked, trying to sound nonchalant.

A tiny cloud of concern covered Molly's face briefly.  "He's...doing better."  She gave the girl a considering look.  "He...well..."  her voice faded.  She shook her head, visibly pushing something down within herself.  "You gave him his rabbit yes?"

Angelina nodded.  She felt her stomach cramp at how Molly was acting.  She had been worried about this day.  She was eager to see the Weasleys and Harry of course.  Having not heard from the young boy for weeks then learning that the twins and Ron had gone to "fetch" him had done a number on her nerves.  She had resigned herself to waiting to see Harry when they went back to Hogwarts.  At least he was able to send letters again.

Then she was invited to spend some time at the Burrow and she was able to find the time for it.  Katie would be coming too.  Alicia was out of the country and Oliver was at a camp and could not leave.  She was glad for the chance to see her friends.

She was scared however.  She saw all what was not said in the letters.

"He loves that rabbit, a fine gift for him."  Molly patted Angelina's hand.

"He gave me one too."

Molly laughed.  "You know, that doesn't surprise me.  I've only really gotten to know him a few days now but he's very kind, considering his..."  She coughed awkwardly again.  "You should go to him dear.  It'll do him good to see you I imagine."

Angelina thanked her and left, her mind running.  It ran all over the place, frequently going to the extremes.  She tried to stop it but was failing miserably.