|
"I suppose you like the way Phlegm says ' 'Arry,' do you." asked Ginny scornfully.
"No," said Harry, wishing he hadn't spoken, "I was just saying, Phlegm — I mean, Fleur —" "I'd much rather have Tonks in the family," said Ginny. "At least she's a laugh." "She hasn't been much of a laugh lately," said Ron. "Every time I've seen her she's looked more like Moaning Myrtle." "That's not fair," snapped Hermione. "She still hasn't got over what happened... you know... I mean, he was her cousin!" Harry's heart sank. They had arrived at Sirius. He picked up a fork and began shoveling scrambled eggs into his mouth, hoping to deflect any invitation to join in this part of the conversation.
"Tonks and Sirius barely knew each other!" said Ron. "Sirius was in Azkaban half her life and before that their families never met —" "That's not the point," said Hermione. "She thinks it was her limit he died!" "How does she work that one out." asked Harry, in spite of himself.
"Well, she was fighting Bellatrix Lestrange, wasn't she. I think she feels that if only she had finished her off, Bellatrix couldn't have killed Sirius." "That's stupid," said Ron.
"It's survivor's guilt," said Hermione. "I know Lupin's tried to talk her round, but she's still really down. She's actually having trouble with her Metamorphosing!" "With her —." "She can't change her appearance like she used to," explained Hermione. "I think her powers must have been affected by shock, or something." "I didn't know that could happen," said Harry.
"Nor did I," said Hermione, "but I suppose if you're really depressed ..." The door opened again and Mrs. Weasley popped her head in. "Ginny," she whispered, "come downstairs and help me with the lunch." "I'm talking to this lot!" said Ginny, outraged.
"Now!" said Mrs. Weasley, and withdrew.
 |  |
|