A Witch Out of Time

「 chapter four 」

Edmund chased after his brother as soon as he suggested proving him wrong. Of course, whilst Hermione had been upstairs, his brother — as well as the others — had returned home. There was no point in even attempting to explain the significance of the girl to Eustace, but he thought his siblings at least would understand.

          Eustace, the children's know-it-all cousin, was staying with them whilst his parents visited theirs in America. It was only intended for two weeks, although Aunt Alberta had written — like the Pevensies — to say the trip had extended. Peter hadn't blinked an eyelid. Edmund, who was actually forced to bunk with the ignorant boy, thought otherwise. He had hardly survived their guest so far, with his collection of insects which had been transported from their Aunt's. Lucy didn't think him as bad but she agreed with Edmund. They thought Peter only liked Eustace's company since he got to play the man in charge once again.

          Peter, initially, didn't believe Edmund had brought a girl home, but particularly considered him mad when he mentioned magic. The elder brother rolled his eyes and had known better, so would investigate the girl himself — even if he believed the whole story to be fiction. He had strut right up to Susan's room regardless of the fact the supposed female was changing.

He had made worse mistakes, but even the High King of Narnia wasn't prepared to witness the indecent girl. The moment he opened the door he regretted the reckless move. A familiar sense of courage and belief surged through his veins, yet it was so wrong when the stranger was practically naked. He should have listened to his brother.

"Really Peter?!" Edmund hissed, nudging his brother as he pulled him away, "Did you really think I would lie about this?"

          "It wouldn't be the first time though, would it, Ed?" Peter snapped back and threw his arms up in the air.

          "Don't blame this on me, I told you the truth!" The younger retaliated, quickly calming only after Lucy stomped up the stairs.

          "Stop it! The two of you!" She yelled. Both of the brothers obeyed and slightly bowed their heads. She looked between them, "I suggest you return to your studies, and you to watch Eustace, while I go and check on our guest."

          "I don't need two of you to watch me, not even one of you for that matter!" A scrawny voice, which a rich, southern accent, commented from below.

          "Not you!" Lucy snapped.

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          The distinct yelling erupted from the outside hallway and Hermione could only stare at the door. She hardly budged within the blanket. Not only was she embarrassed but extremely self-conscious. Any first impressions had been spoilt. As the shouting dialled down, she finally let the covering go and dressed herself appropriately — yet she still waited before even considering leaving the room. Her gaze elevated to the door upon hearing a gentle knock. Hermione gulped.

"Come in," She murmured, only just loud enough to be acknowledged.

A brunette slipped through the door. She was younger, slim and fair. Hermione only glanced at the girl for a moment before facing her lap again. She was relieved it wasn't one of the males, but more embarrassed since it seemed everyone in the house knew about the walk-in.