I Solemnly Swear That I Am Up to No Good

[alt_terry]

Hermione, this is really for you.

You know why I went with the git. But I'm rethinking things now.

I'm trying to figure out how to ask this, how to word it so you can answer. Because I know you're under an Unbreakable Vow and that means you can't say certain things, and because I promised to keep secrets, too.

Um.

Hermione, I was given something. Something that someone promised me would help me get away from the git, once and for all.

But I haven't used it because, well, you know why. Because the git's blackmailing me about your safety, threatening you with his sister. But the person who gave me, um, this thing, said that you'd be safe. That there's nothing to stop me from leaving.

I just don't know. I mean, if I do it, there's no going back, and I wouldn't even know where I'm going.

But something has happened, something that gives me another reason to go. It could change everything. And so I'm thinking about it. Thinking about taking that step.

I'm just--I'm not like you, Hermione. I want to get away from him so bad it hurts like poison, but I'm not a Gryffindor.

I hope you won't hate me for it, but the truth is I'm scared. Scared for me and dead scared for you.

Can I really trust these people that you'll be safe? No matter what?

And me. I know you can't tell me what would happen if I use it, but...

would it really be all right?

Comments

[alt_hermione]

Yes, yes, it will be all right, please do it Terry! I promise. I'll be just fine. He can't hurt me. I swear he can't. I've got very good protection.

[alt_terry]

All right. I'll do it.

Dunno if you have any way to get word to them. But I have to wait until later this afternoon. A little before supper.

[alt_gredforge]

Why wait? Just go now!

[alt_terry]

I have to wait. I can't explain why now, but I do.

But I'm gonna do it, so let them know, Hermione.

[alt_gredforge]

Brilliant!

Let us know when you're safely away, then. We'll be keeping our fingers crossed for you.

[alt_hermione]

I'm so glad! I was just about to ask you if you did - or if you would - this afternoon. Before supper. I have it.

[alt_gredforge]

Professor, if you've got some way to get away from that slimeball, grab the chance with both hands and don't look back. Anything would be better than him.

[alt_neville]

I agree.