I'm still waiting for the rain to fall, pour real life down on me -- Fall 1996

I knew I was really young compared to Addison -- I was two years younger than her -- but I still wanted to help my mate.  I found her sitting in a chair working on some homework and I sat down near her.  Of course we were in casual clothes and she was waring a baggy jumper with some leggings.  I had a feeling the oversized jumper was to help hide what had happened over the summer.  Naturally everyone knew in the school.  Nothing was ever kept secret here at Hogwarts.

I was timid because I was not entirely sure how to approach her.  "So... it looks like they're already loading you down with homework for your OWLs?" I questioned, realizing that I did not have nearly as much work as she did in hte first month of classes.

I smiled a bit at Ellie.  I did like the Cattermoles.  "OWLs were last year... but the workload hasn't lightened," I reminded her gently.  "You have this to look forward to next year... it's a boatload of fun."  I was sure she could hear the sarcasm rolling off my tongue when I spoke about it being fun.  there was a bit of commotion and I looked to see Nate being... Nate.  I rolled my eyes and looked at Ellie.  "I swear... he is always seeking attention."

I laughed and nodded.  "Sounds about right," I agreed.  Then looking back at her schoolwork I shook my head.  "I'm not entirely looking forward to it.  Trust me..."  Iwas not entirely sure how to get started to see if she was doing okay.

I chuckled slightly.  "No, I wouldn't look forward to it, either, Ellie," I said simply.  I had no idea what she wanted... but I had a feeling it was to merely make sure I was okay.

I chuckled at Addie for a moment.  "Honey, are you alright?" I asked, diving right in basically.

I knew something like that was going to be coming from at least one of my housemates and especially a Cattermole.  I closed my potions book and sighed.  "I'm okay, I guess," I said to her, adjusted the pillow behind my back a little bit.  "The soreness and pain physically has gone away... emotionally is a different story, though."  I had to be honest with Ellie.  Though she was younger, she was always there and supportive no matter what.

I nodded and put a hand on Addison's arm comfortingly.  "We both know I don't really understand everything about it... but I understand hurting worse emotionally rather than physically," I said to her honestly.  "But if there is anything that I can help with... just let me know.  I'm sure that there would be something I could do to help."

I smiled, putting my hand over Ellie's.  "Thanks," I said to her.  "I do appreciate it... but I just don't like to talk about it much.  It's too painful."  I knew in time I would want to remember Cyrus... as of that moment, however, I preferred not to think about it by any means.