volumetwo | (no subject)

Thank Merlin for cell phones and the crazy Muggle technology he couldn't begin to understand that kept their messages flowing through the fall and winter months. Surely, things could have gone worse. Scorpius hadn't been kicked out of school; he was merely on probation, so he had to keep his head up and not get into a single ounce of trouble ever again. Mr. Potter had been very understanding, more than he had a right to be after what he'd seen, and the howler Scorpius got his from his parents about the probation only had him humiliated for a week or so.

All in all, things had worked out.

Even though he couldn't see James anymore, he could talk to him through texts and, brief, phone calls. It wasn't as frequent, but it would have to do.

By the time the holidays rolled around, Scorpius convinced his parents to let him stay with the Potters for the week leading up to New Year's. He spent about two hours trying to find the right clothes for his first visit with James in months and to make a good impression on Mr. Potter, although Al found it hilarious when he saw Scorpius on their front porch wearing a checked sweatervest and a button-up.

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And Lily wrinkles her nose, like she's surprised by that answer. "James is into the weirdest things, I swear," she says, shaking her head - his interest in muggle literature was always a little baffling to her. "Well, you boys have fun, anyway. Bring me some sweets back, alright?"

"I'll think about it," he says dismissively, ruffling Lily's hair on his way out of the room. He loved his sister, but it was his job as her big brother to annoy her. Right? Anyway, of course he'd bring her something back; he wasn't that mean.

"Scorpius, James, let's go!"

Lily huffs indignantly, swatting at Al's hand when he ruffles her hair, but otherwise just sort of waves at him as he goes. Honestly, she's a little worried, but she isn't sure if there's anything she can do about it.

Meanwhile, James is still in the living room, coat on. He flashes a sort of awkward smile at Al, something a little brighter than normal. "I'm ready, I'm ready."