Witch In A Flash

Chapter 39

A couple of weeks had flown by since I first arrived for the summer. The days were a blur of visits to Cho and Marietta, fun times with the Weasleys, and the occasional quiet moment to myself. I was about to head back to the Weasleys' for another visit when Joe's voice called out from the living room.

His face was a mix of concern and fondness, and he seemed to be trying to find the right words.

"Amy," he said, his tone gentle but firm, "I've been feeling like we haven't seen much of you this summer. I understand you're having a great time with your friends and the Weasleys, but I'd really like you to be home by dinner more often. We don't have much time left before you head back to Hogwarts, and I'd like us to make the most of it."

I nodded, feeling a pang of guilt. "I'm sorry, Dad. I've just been so caught up in everything. I'll make sure to come home earlier from now on."

Joe smiled, giving my shoulder a reassuring squeeze. "Thanks, kiddo. I just want us to have some time together before you're off again."

I gave him a hug and promised him I'd be home for dinner more often. I walked into the fireplace feeling a mix of regret and excitement to see Fred again.

I arrived at the Weasleys' home and noticed an unusual quietness settling over the house. It was a stark contrast to the usual lively atmosphere. Curious, I headed upstairs, hoping to find Fred and George and maybe surprise them with a little scare. The house was peaceful, and the quiet seemed to stretch out in front of me.

As I reached the twins' room, I could hear their voices drifting out into the hallway. I paused, leaning against the wall to listen.

"Seriously, Fred," George was saying, his voice low but filled with an edge of seriousness. "Have you noticed how Amy looks at you? It's pretty obvious."

Fred's response was a little muffled, but I could still make out his words. "What do you mean? She's just a friend."

George seemed insistent. "Come on, mate. It's more than that. She's always around you, and she's clearly interested."

Fred sighed, sounding slightly uncomfortable. "George, she's just a close friend. I don't really think of her as anything more than a sister."

I felt a sharp pang of disappointment at Fred's words, feeling tears well up in my eyes. I didn't want them to know I'd overheard. I silently fanned my eyes with my hands to stop myself from crying and tried to pretend my heart didn't just break a bit.

I took a deep breath, trying to compose myself before making my presence known. With a mix of nervousness and resolve, I pushed open the door and stepped into the room, putting on a bright smile.

"Hey, you two," I said cheerfully, trying to mask the hurt I felt. "What's up?"

Fred and George looked up, their expressions shifting from surprise to awkwardness. Fred cleared his throat, giving me a slightly forced smile. "Oh, hey, Amy. We were just... talking about some stuff."

George shot Fred a knowing look but quickly turned his attention to me. "Yeah, just some brotherly chat. Nothing important."

I nodded, trying to act casual despite the discomfort and tightness lingering in my chest. "Got it." My voice sounded strained. "Well, I'm here to hang out. Anything fun planned for today?"

Fred's face relaxed slightly, and he seemed eager to change the subject. "Actually, we were thinking of doing a bit of experimenting with some new pranks. Interested in joining us?"

I forced a smile, trying to shake off the sting of the conversation I had overheard. "Sounds like a blast. Lead the way."

Fred turned to George and said, "Go ahead and pull out the stuff. I'll get Amy caught up on what we're planning."