Harry, Kat, and Spellbound ➩ Book 1 [Harry Potter] | #Wattys2016

[CHAPTER 15] Purchasing Ahead

Christmas break is nearing. While others are excited, Kataleen and the rest have been busier than ever, left with a month before the break. Irwin didn't report much for a week, other than the fact Snape has been closely eyeing Quirrel and that he has been so nervous lately.

"So he's threatening Quirrel, probably, to help him get whatever Fluffy's guarding," said Ron in conclusion. They were all at their common rooms, letting Irwin sneak inside despite his being a Slytherin.

"Yes. So long as Quirrel's there, Snape can't get past Fluffy," added Hermione.

"Well, yes, but otherwise he will find a way," said Irwin. "Snape's a sneaky little fox."

"You said it," said Kataleen, standing up from the floor and going to a stack of her books. "So, the best we can do is make sure Snape isn't anywhere near the third floor."

"True, but how can we do that if we're all on Christmas break next month?" Irwin pointed.

The five were all silent for a few minutes, until Harry spoke up. "Well, I'm staying here in Hogwarts during break. I mean, it's not like I can expect a normal family Christmas with my relatives. Maybe I can watch over Snape."

"Harry, that'll be too dangerous to do alone. There's a large risk of getting caught," said Hermione, hugging her knees.

Kataleen looked from her to Ron, who was rubbing his chin. "Maybe I can stay as well. Somebody has to leave behind with Harry."

"Maybe I can stay. My family wouldn't mind, I'm sure. They're out the whole December, anyway," shrugged Irwin.

"Well, I can't," said Hermione, and the boys looked at her as she sighed. "My family expects me to be with them during Christmas. Being Muggles they have certain traditions that can't proceed without me."

"We understand, Hermione," said Harry with a kind smile, then turned to Kataleen. "How about you, Kat? Would you be allowed to stay?"

She shrugged. She walked from the coffee table to a couch, sitting on the armrest. "Well, maybe. The Beryls are nice, but I wouldn't want to be an additional to their Christmas spendings. Besides, I would love to help out in any way I can."

"Good. Now I expect all of you to research about Flamel while you're here," said Hermione.

"Well, looks like it's a long break for us," said Ron, resting his chin on his knees. Then from outside they heard someone say the password, then the portrait went open.

Kataleen immediately got off the armrest with a wide smile, running to the portrait. "Arlin! You're all better!"

"Yup," Arlin laughed as she ran into him and squeezed him. Was it Hermione's imagination, or was Arlin blushing?

"Well, we've got plans for Christmas break," said Harry. "Kataleen wants to stay and help out."

"Stay here? In school?" Arlin asked, and she nodded as she broke free from the hug.

"I'm sure you guys wouldn't mind, right? I mean, I really do wanna help out Harry and the rest," said Kataleen.

Arlin shrugged. "If you want to."

Kataleen smiled at him, and before she can thank him the portrait burst open once more. This time, Matrix came in, hair all spiked up and face full of ash.

"Hey Matrix. What happened to you?" Irwin said, standing up as Matrix rubbed his face with his robes.

"Malfoy. He offered me a gum. I refused, but then he took out a bottle and threatened to spray water on me if I don't accept. I laughed at him, but then when he shook the water bottle, it exploded like a bomb in my face," he grumbled, taking a comb from a drawer and struggling to straighten his spiky, hard hair.