30 Minute Lunch Hour ((Theo))

[August Reid R7]

August quickly descended from the Divination Tower on his way to the Great Hall. He could hardly wait until his sixth year when he could drop Divination. It was a worthless subject taught at Hogwarts. Professor Trelawney seemed to get more and more disconnected with every passing day. August knew from the first day of Divination his first year that he was not going to like the subject. The professor looked at them through glasses that made her eyes huge and told them all that she sensed none of them had the 'eye.' August couldn't help but roll his. Through the course of that first day it was obvious that Professor Trelawney didn't posses the 'eye' either. She made predictions that horrible accidents would befall them. And when the accidents didn't happen she would say that it was because they were forewarned. August couldn't understand if he did not have the 'eye' then why must he suffer? Looking into tea cups and deciding it was going to rain or not based on the leaves was far fetched at best. At least that is how August viewed the situation. If he didn't have this mysterious 'eye' that Trelawney was about going on and on and on and on about then why did he need to take Divination? There was no point. If he could not tell the future now than he could not able to predict the future after taking this ridiculous class. He hated walking all the way up to the stupid tower. Firstly because there was no bridge from the Ravenclaw Tower to the Divination Tower. So that meant that he had to walk down from the Ravenclaw Tower just to walk up again to the Divination Tower. Secondly, the bloody tower was so isolated from the rest of the school that you had to practically canter from one place to another. During his third year he had Divination first in the morning followed by Potions. That meant getting from the Divination Tower all the way to down to the dungeons.

Then there was the classroom. If you wanted to call it that. The sofas and pillow chairs. Where were the desks? Professor Trelawney seemed to be opposed to oxygen for she would fill the air with perfume and incense. Both of which August was pretty sure he was allergic to. At least he wanted to be. Then maybe he could make an excuse of why he didn't want to go. He could tell Professor Flitwick, "I would go to Divination, but Madame Pomfrey forbids it." August would love that. The only reason he could suffer through Divination this year was that lunch was right after. He would literally count the minutes until he could rush down to the Great Hall and stuff himself with chips. It sometimes was so bad that when Professor Trelawney would call on him for an answer he would often answer with food. "Cheeseburger," he told her today when she had asked him about his neighbor's palm. Some of the other Ravenclaws had laughed. What did he care? The professor had made it much worse by thinking that August was absolutely serious. She started in on a lecture of the significance of seeing food with the 'eye'. August had let her words bounce off him and sneezed. He really should go to Madame Pomfrey. Maybe he really was allergic. He definitely was allergic to something. Divination lessons.

August strode in the Great Hall with several other students from his class. One girl was saying to him, "You come up with the silliest things August. Cheeseburgers? How did you come up with that?" He simply shrugged. She seemed satisfied with his answer and after a small smile she made her way to her house table. August went straight to the Ravenclaw table and looked for someone that he could sit with. Unfortunately there was no one. All of the Ravenclaws were either younger or older than him. He didn't exactly get along with people from his house and year. August didn't have the faintest idea why not though. He was a friendly care free person, right? Well, when he wanted to be. Finally seeing a spot open he took the opportunity and sat down not really caring who was on either side of him. On his left were a couple of first years. Lucky buggers. They hadn't even had to experience the pain that was Divination. On his right was a boy who August thought was in the year above him. He had golden blonde hair and blue eyes. August seemed to recall that he was often found in the Ravenclaw common room with another girl who was no where in sight. August wanted to start a conversation but he was still angry about Divination and that's all he could think about. "Excuse me," he asked the boy trying to get his attention. "Do you like Divination?"

[Theo Darke]

Theo munched on his lunch silently and alone for once in a long time. His solitude was somewhat lonesome, of course, but it was refreshing for a change. He could sit there mutedly, enjoying his meal in automatic gear and thinking about things without having to concentrate on making conversation with anyone. Not that Theo didn’t enjoy speaking to Lori, but he always saw her anyway, and talking to other Ravenclaws was never as fun. Some of them could be downright annoying, what with them either staring at Theo’s oh-so-popular face, or whispering about him to one another, or asking him stupid questions about whether or not the rumours were true, to which Theo would calmly say it was none of their business, unless they were in his year, to which Theo would’ve replied, “Yes, I am gay” if it wasn’t for the fact that everyone in his year were already ware of this simple, but obviously fascinating fact. Currently Theo had distanced himself from some first years sitting someway to his left, discussing something obviously extremely interesting and pressing. Theo found the little scene amusing, thankful that Flo wasn’t quite as arrogant-looking as them, and busied himself with the chicken below his fork.

The reason to why Theo had found himself alone at lunch and without Lori for company was because she was helping out Professor Sprout with some plantation work in the greenhouses. Lori had always been ever so helpful; more so than Theo, who did it out of gentlemanliness. Lori on the other hand was genuinely kind and thoughtful, and Theo admired that in her. Normally Theo would’ve also volunteered to go along and help out, but Professor Sprout said she did not require anyone else, as Lori was an excellent helper. Hence why Theo had gone to lunch without her – or rather, they had come together, and Lori had left after five minutes worth of eating quickly and rushing to the greenhouses. Theo was worried that she would damage something from eating and running so quickly and so much in such a short space of time, but Lori could be stubborn when she wanted to be, so that could not be helped. Smiling to himself, Theo played with the salad on his plate, before spearing a piece of fresh green cabbage on his fork and popping it neatly into his mouth.

A voice jerked Theo out of his thoughts, and he turned to see the familiar face of a Ravenclaw in the year below him. Theo swallowed and halted the movement of his knife and fork, before recognising the boy beside him as August Reid. He hadn’t really spoken to him ever, but Theo knew most names of the Ravenclaws close to his age. Being prefect also helped this along. Theo blinked at August in surprise, caught by his odd question so suddenly fired at him, plus Theo had failed to notice August’s arrival. However, Theo soon regained his composure, and smiled wryly in return. “I do, actually, despite what everyone says and thinks of Professor Trelawney. I won’t say anything about her teaching methods, but the subject as a whole is simply fascinating.” Theo returned to his half-eaten salad, before scrunching up another wisp of cabbage onto his fork and eating it slowly. “It’s also extremely hard. I can’t say I have much Seer ability, but I’d love to be able to see into the future, wouldn’t you?” Theo smiled encouragingly at August. “Though, once I’ve completed my OWL, I plan on giving it up, because I have so many other subjects I love that I want to take to NEWT level that take precedent over Divination.”

“Why do you ask?” Theo ended curiously. “You don’t like it?” He asked with a small smile. “I wouldn’t be surprised if you said that, nor would I be offended. The fact I like it is my opinion; obviously a very odd and misplaced judgement.” He joked, “I am also the only person who likes History of Magic… oh wait, Lori does too. I just do my best not to let the teacher affect my love for a subject.” Theo smiled confidently.

[August Reid R7]

The boy sitting next to August was Theo Darke, a newly appointed prefect. Theo was a fair and just prefect that didn't seem to want to abuse his power. Most of the prefects in Ravenclaw and Hufflepuff were the good kind of prefects. They got prefect status because they deserved it. And they were the best suited for the job. Unlike some Slytherin prefects. August had recently run into a boy named Caleb that gave him a hard time. Sure, his tie wasn't exactly straight, but that was no reason to comment on it in the middle of the corridors when August was already late for Herbology. Caleb made August stop and straighten his tie before he went any further. "Thank you so much," August words were dripping with sarcasm. "I would have been lost without you." Caleb just smirked and nodded. "So are most kids," he said continuing down the corridor. August didn't make it to Herbology in time and Professor Sprout had taken away some house points. If only Caleb hadn't stopped him. Most prefects wouldn't even care that a tie was not perfectly straight. Only a Slytherin would make something out of nothing. The Gryffindor prefects? There were just a bad as the Slytherins. They were thought of as the "good" house at Hogwarts and Slytherin was the "evil" house. And because they were the "good" house they could do no wrong. In August's opinion they were pompous jerks. They were arrogant and prideful. Just as the Slytherins bragged about their lineage, the Gryffindors bragged about Harry Potter and Neville Longbottom coming from their house. It just made August sick.

But prefects from Ravenclaw and Hufflepuff were different. They weren't blinded by pride or family. They had their heads on straight. Theo was that kind of prefect. He had always been nice to August whenever they had interacted. Plus he was kind to August's younger brother Bronsen. August remembered when Bronsen had first come to Hogwarts. August was worried that Bronsen might be sorted into Slytherin. After all, their elder brother had been put in that house. Bronsen was too meek to fit in Slytherin August thought. August feared that he would be eaten alive if he went in there. August was also fairly certain that Bronsen would not have been put into Gryffindor. Not because Bronsen didn't have courage, but the house always seemed wrong for him. He thought the best house would have been Hufflepuff but August was elated when his younger brother was sorted into the same house as he was. He watched on as Bronsen was lead to the Ravenclaw tower by prefects like Theo. August had always just trusted Theo. He seemed like a trustworthy bloke.

Theo seemed to be taken aback by the sudden question that August had just asked him. August could understand why. He had just randomly asked him without any proper segue. He listened to Theo answer as he helped himself to some chips and bread pudding. Many people said that it was a strange combination, but August loved it. It was one of his favourite unhealthy meals. August looked around for a pitcher of pumpkin juice but couldn't find any. Shrugging to himself he picked up a chip and shoved it in his mouth. He couldn't believe that Theo actually liked Divination. Swallowing he answered Theo, "It is fascinating but I don't have the gift. Nor will I ever have the gift. So I fail to see why I have to study it with that... that mad woman."

"No, I'm not fond of it. Professor Trelawney rubs me the wrong way and I just can't like the subject. I hate having to look at tea leaves and pretend that they will predict my entire day. I've just come from the Divination Tower and I hate having to climb down from that place if I ever want to go someplace." He took a bite of his bread pudding. It was delicious as always. The house elves of Hogwarts really knew how to cook. "I like History of Magic too. If I can stay awake during Professor Binns lectures anyway," August smirked.

[Theo Darke]

Theo chuckled. “I don’t think I have much of a ‘gift’ for the subject either. Not many people do…” He mused on this thought for a couple of seconds, before smiling. “It’s not a gift I’ve ever wanted, anyway.” He laughed openly when August called Professor Trelawney a ‘mad woman’, brushing a few strands of short blonde away from his eyes. His hair was getting long, often dangling into his cerulean eyes and obscuring his vision. Theo liked clarity; he would have to cut it soon. “I think that’s the general consensus. You’re not alone in your dislike.” Theo felt somewhat sorry for the aging woman. Yes, she was a bit loony; a very odd person, even for a witch. She was a terrible teacher, and had an even worse taste in fashion and perfume. However, because of her differences, she was often teased and sometimes bullied. Mocking Professor Trelawney could be counted a sport in some students’ eyes. Theo thought their cruelty disgusting. He didn’t mind joking around, but some individuals went too far. He had once shut up a fellow pupil who had said something rather hurtful to Professor Trelawney. Everyone had been surprised at Theo’s reaction, and since he was popular, followed and respected by others, no one in his Divination class ever spoke maliciously of Professor Trelawney. Not in front of him, anyway. Amusingly, the professor hadn’t seemed affected, or even noticed, the student’s unkind comment, and Theo had left it at that.

The truth was, Theo had a problem with people who picked on others for being different, and this feeling had merely escalated since he had openly admitted to being gay. Theo had more than often become curt and sharp with people when they offended him on this issue. Normally he was a calm, sensible guy, who was careful not to be aroused easily in case it turned into a major confrontation. However, there were times Theo just wanted to punch someone. He knew it was wrong, but that didn’t stop the urge from being there. Knocking him out of such thoughts, Theo noticed August’s eye movement and cast his gaze down the table. He noticed the pumpkin juice pitcher at the end and reached for his wand. ”Accio pumpkin juice.” He muttered softly. He grabbed the soaring jug and proceeded to pour a glass for August and for himself too. The food was making him thirsty. “Divination sounds troublesome for you.” Theo smiled wryly at August and pushed the full glass towards him. He sent the pitcher back along the table to where the girls were protesting for it, and turned back to August. “Really?” He smiled pleasantly, surprised that there was someone else with a liking towards the much disliked subject. “True.” Theo then laughed, nodding as he finished the last morsel on his plate and taking a draught of his drink. “That’s why no one likes it. If only they got a more interesting teacher.” Theo sighed mournfully. He didn’t hate Professor Binns, but in his eyes he didn’t have any love for his subject despite possibly being a good ambassador for it. Even Professor Trelawney was more enthusiastic than him…

“I think my favourite subject is Charms.” Theo smiled enthusiastically. “Flitwick is also a good teacher. What’s yours?” He cast August a curious gaze, always interested in hearing and learning more about other people (and not through a rumour). “Oh, I’m sorry. I’ve forgotten to introduce myself.” Theo laughed sheepishly and reached for some pudding on the table. He was close to being full. “I’m Theo Darke. Fifth year.” He extended a hand to August and smiled brightly. “Though you might have heard about me already. I know who you are, anyway. August Reid, right? This is what happens when you’re a Prefect; but I think I knew yours before this year anyway.” Theo touched his badge on his chest consciously. “Prefect is a difficult job, but I try not to complain. It’s a privilege and an honour, really. Anyway, don’t you have a little brother in Ravenclaw? Bronsen, isn’t it? I’ve spoken to him a lot. How is the little guy? He seems to be settling in well.” Theo recalled speaking to Bronsen on the first day of this year, when the first year had been sorted. He also recalled that Bronsen didn’t only have August for a brother – he also had a sixth year sibling in Slytherin… “Are you glad Bronsen’s in Ravenclaw too?” Theo smiled in question, “My sister and brother are coming next year, and I hope they’ll be joining me. The chances are high. Don’t you have another brother, August? In Slytherin, sixth year, right?”

[August Reid R7]

"I think that’s the general consensus. You’re not alone in your dislike." That was the truth. Professor Trelawney seemed to be one of those people you either hated or you loved. Most of the students seemed to loathe her. Although, every now and again August met a student who loved her and thought that her classes were the best in all of Hogwarts. August didn't really agree or understand that opinion, but it was their opinion and they were entitled to it. August firmly believed that no opinion was wrong. You might not like it, you might not agree with it, but it was not wrong. Everyone was entitled and should have their own opinion. "Thank you," August told the boy next to him for he had just poured August some pumpkin juice. Everyone was entitled to an opinion. August was sure that Theo understood that well. It was openly known (through late night gossip mostly) that Theo Darke, the new prefect, one of the most popular boys in school, was gay. August wasn't quite sure how one made the decision that they were gay but Theo had made it. According to one bit of gossip, he had proclaimed it. August knew that there was a large student population who either didn't care or supported Theo in his sexuality. But there was also a body of students to counter that opinion. People who either thought it was gross or thought it was morally wrong to love someone of the same sex. August couldn't understand their reasoning, but he respected their opinion. After all, they were entitled to it. He wondered if Theo thought poorly on those that did not accept him. He would have to ask him.

Before he could ask, Theo asked him what his favourite class was. A question that was not easily answered. August liked all his classes for the most part. Except Divination. He liked to learn. All his classes taught him something new and exciting. It was fun in Transfiguration to learn how to transform something from one thing to the next. Charms was interesting because you never knew what would happen next. August didn't particularly like Professor Snape but it was a satisfying feeling to know that what you had just spent the last hour making had come out. Maybe not perfect, but good enough. Professor Hagrid had a tendency of taking his classes into peril but for the most part it was fascinating to learn about the new creatures and how to feed and take care of them. Herbology was okay, but August was not so fond of going out to the greenhouses and playing in the dirt. He knew that it wasn't just 'playing in the dirt,' but that is how it felt sometimes. Astronomy was fine, but going to class at midnight was taxing, especially with an early class the next morning. Muggle Studies with Professor Hardy was interesting but not practical. Why would he need to know how the muggles live unless his career had something to do with that? Finally, he came to a conclusion. "I would have to say that Defence Against the Dark Arts is my favourite class. Although I like most of my classes. Defence Against the Dark Arts is really useful I think. Not that we're going to be attacked now that You-Know-Who is gone, but I've always liked protection spells more than offensive spells."

"I know who you are, Theo. Because of that badge," August nodded toward the badge that Theo had just touched. "But other reasons as well..." August didn't know how to finish that sentence. What was he supposed to say? 'A lot of people talk about your sexuality as if you're an abnormality to the human race.' No. August was not going to say that. That was just plain rude. He let it drop for now and was glad that Theo asked about his siblings. A small smile escaped his lips at Theo's mention of Bronsen. Bronsen was just starting at Hogwarts and therefore August hadn't spent a huge amount of time with him these last three years. He loved both of his brothers very much but found it much easier to relate with Bronsen. So he was elated that Bronsen had been sorted into the same house as he. "I think he is doing well. He always seems in good spirits whenever I talk with him in the common room." The small smile disappeared from his face as Theo mentioned his brother in Slytherin. He let out a sigh. "I do have a brother in Slytherin. We haven't been getting along too well lately. I feel like banging my head against a wall each time I see him." August sighed again and took a drink of his pumpkin juice. "His name's Jack."

[Theo Darke]

“Hm,” Theo nodded when August said his favourite subject was Defence Against The Dark Arts. “I like it, but since I’ve always been quite passive I’m not very into it. Still, what we learn is fascinating, I agree.” He smiled in approval of August’s preferences. “I prefer protection spells too. I don’t think I’d ever use the offence ones unless for defence anyway.” August didn’t strike Theo as the type of boy to be aggressive either; he seemed quite calm and collected and held an air of maturity and thirst for knowledge about him. Theo enjoyed conversing with such people; they could hold a steady yet interesting conversation. Though, Theo liked a lot of people. People such as Dylan, reserved and quiet and somewhat too blunt, but at the same time a good friend; Belle, friendly and laid back; and Scott, shy but decent. Theo had suddenly in the last fortnight acquired a wide variety of friends, and none of them were in the same year and house as him. August was in the year below, and Scott and Dylan were Gryffindors and Slytherins respectively. Nothing in particular had conjoined them suddenly together, but it had, but Theo was not unhappy about it; on the contrary, he was glad to be socialising again after the beginning of this hard year. After the whole… coming out business.

August obviously either didn’t know about Theo, or he didn’t care; Theo hoped it was the latter. “Oh.” Theo sent the younger Ravenclaw a small smile when he pointed out his prefect badge for him. “Yeah. I suppose being a prefect gets you known round school too. It’s a two-way thing.” He eyed the badge on his chest, and it glinted in the light, before glancing up a little hurriedly as August trailed off. Silence reigned for a moment, before Theo cracked a soft smile. He knew what August wanted to say; Theo could’ve taken it wrongly that August didn’t like the fact he was gay, but he wanted to doubt this. After all, August would’ve have started such a conversation so randomly, and he wouldn’t be still talking to him. Theo guessed that the boy was just hesitant because the topic was such an awkward one. This was written all over his face as Theo observed it. “Such as the rumours about me being gay?” Theo prompted, breaking the awkward silence. “Don’t worry about it.” He waved dismissively before August could speak. “It’s been a few months since I came out, and I’m used to the stares and whispers, the questions and the awkwardness. As long as you don’t have a problem with me being gay, it’s a topic I’m happy to discuss openly. So, don’t feel uncomfortable or anything, because that just makes me feel worse. I want people to treat me normal, you know?”

Theo continued to smile congenially until they went to the topic of August’s various brothers. “That’s good.” Theo nodded about Bronsen, but watched as the Ravenclaw began to frown somewhat about his other brother. “I see.” Theo commented shortly as August drank. Obviously the two were having a strained relationship, he noted at August’s facial expressions. Theo had always been glad he was close to Brittany and Callum; they rarely had arguments. Often the twins themselves would bicker within themselves, but they were problems easily and quickly solved – usually about something awfully petty. Theo smiled to himself at the childishness of his brother and sister. Although he never argued with either of them and they argued with each other more (Theo was a role model to both), Brittany and Callum were definitely closest to each other. They were twins after all, though not identical ones, and spent a lot of time together. Theo didn’t envy them, as he had his own best friend in Lori. Lori was kind of like his twin already anyway. Life with family was generally extremely good for Theo, so he never did fully understand other people’s situations. However, he still sympathised with them, and knew he would be extremely unhappy if he did not get on well with his parents and the twins, and did not have Lori’s support.

“Jack.” Theo repeated more to himself. “I think I know who he is.” He finally said after a moments musing. “Heard of him before and no wonder his surname sounded familiar.” Theo didn’t know everyone round school like most prefects did, since he was newly appointed, and his concurrent confession of his sexuality had worked against his odds, but he was starting to pick them up from his patrols and stuff. He already knew everyone in his year, and most of the Ravens in the years above and below. The first years too. Jack Reid he had not ever met – merely Theo had most likely heard his name in passing. But the memory of the familiar surname sprung up and Theo nodded again. “I’ve never met him though.” He finally said.

[August Reid R7]

The Great Hall was full of noise. The noise of teenagers, the noise of happiness, the noise of frustration, the noise of hunger. But right now it was all white noise to August. He was solely focused on Theo. It always amazed August that so much could be going on around you and all you notice was what was right in front of you. There was a whole world out there but all that August cared about was Theo. At that moment in time. After lunch, August's bubble would return to include only himself and then he would be the only person in the world that mattered. It really was fascinating to August. Think about how much of the world you miss. There are six billion human beings in the world and all you know is what your individual five senses can tell you. You can never know if someone sees the world differently than you. Sure, everyone can agree on the colour 'orange' but you can't possibly compare your 'orange' to someone else's 'orange.'

Behind Theo something caught August's attention. Suddenly, August's world had expanded from Theo to movement behind him. Professor Trelawney had come down from her stoop to catch a quick lunch at the staff table. It was a rare sight. She usually didn't leave the poisoned air of her tower. August's eyes squinted in hatred and followed her every move. August wasn't even really sure why he had taken the elective. But now he wished he hadn't. For his two electives, he chose Muggle Studies and Divination. Muggle Studies was really interesting and he was learning something new everyday. The muggle world was fascinating and totally foreign to August. His family was pure and was really only associated with pure families. Not because they had anything against inter-magical marriage, but because it was just the neighborhood he was brought up in. August's parents had always taught tolerance of all people. Somehow or another that message wasn't passed on to Jack. There were many things that Jack seemed to miss that their parents had provided. Tolerance, manners, and love. It was something that had flabbergasted Bronsen and August. How could Jack be so different from them but come from the same family? August's attention was brought back to Theo when he started to address his sexuality. August was about to say something when his attention was drawn back to Professor Trelawney as she got up and left the Great Hall. Theo was saying something about August's brothers but August's world was focused on Professor Trelawney. August's eyes followed her every step and he didn't focus back on Theo until she was gone.

"I'm sorry about that," August told Theo sincerely. His full attention now returned to the prefect beside him. "Jack is Jack. Be glad you don't know him. Be glad you met the good Reid children," August said and beamed. He really didn't want to talk badly about Jack, but it was true. Bronsen and he were the good children. "Going back a subject, there's something I want to ask you. But I'm not sure how to." He unconsciously rubbed the back of his neck. A habit that he had when he was nervous about something. August wasn't exactly sure why he was nervous, Theo had just made it clear that he was comfortable talking about his sexuality. Still the topic was uncomfortable for August. When he was younger his father had told him about the jobberknolls and the pixies so that August had grown up knowing about sex. But it was still a topic that was uncomfortable. And then procreation, the very act, had very little to do with one's sexuality. Or at least, August didn't think so. But what if it did? Did your sexuality come out of the act or does the act come from your sexuality? "Well..." he started. He was at a loss for words. How did you ask the question that was burning on August's mind? "How do you know? How do you know...you know." He asked Theo hoping that Theo would decipher his mumblings.

[Theo Darke]

Theo noticed August’s concentration wavering, but didn’t ponder on why that was the case. After speaking, August apologised, and Theo shook his head with a smile. “No problem. We all zone out sometimes.” He laughed as August talked about his brother, and knew that the case was closed concerning the Reid family. August didn’t want to share to a stranger, and Theo didn’t want to pry either. “Sure. Let me guess. Me being gay? It’s such an interesting topic.” Theo commented sarcastically, but quickly smiled in case August thought he had taken offence. “I mean, don’t worry, I don’t mind. I actually find it really amusing now. But ask away… I’m quite open. Evidently.” Theo gave a light smile at his joke, and waited for August to ask. The younger boy was finding it difficult to phrase his question though, making Theo want to laugh a little, but he knew that was a little mean of him. Instead, he waited patiently for August to explain himself properly, curious to know how he would deal with phrasing such questions.

”How did I know I was gay?” Theo decided to finish August’s sentence with a warm smile. “It’s a question often asked by people, and I might as well re-tell it again to you. It’s not a very interesting or enlightening story, but whatever. Hm... I’m not sure, is the real and honest truth. It wasn’t one of those random and sudden epiphanies that I received during the night and woke up knowing I liked guys.” Theo laughed jovially at the amusement of that thought. “It took time to notice. How I wasn’t attracted to women, how my eyes lingered on not the opposite sex, but the same one.” He gave a careless shrug. “Little things that built up, and eventually I realised. It was a bit of a shock.” Theo chuckled under his breath at the memory of his realisation, causing him to almost fall over from shock. “Um, when did I…? Oh yes. I was your age, actually. Nearing the end of my fourth year.” He twiddled his thumbs, completely forgetting his food. “We went on holiday to France in the Easter break. I met someone there, and it wasn’t the first time I realised I was attracted to someone the same gender as me. I had never looked at girls either. I had always pushed it away before, but now the feeling was stronger than ever, so much so it almost consumed me. I realised I was hiding the true me away. At first I was afraid about telling someone. I was terrified, in fact. It’s not something people see as ‘normal’. I didn’t hate myself, but I couldn’t be comfortable either, and I felt guilty about keeping it all in. Eventually I told my best friend and…” Theo gave a wry smile. “Here we are today.”

Theo gave a small sigh. “I don’t regret telling people my true self. I could be no one else but me, and if people can’t accept that then whatever. But, I have to admit, it hurt a lot at the beginning; being shunned by people I thought were my friends. I grew up a lot at the beginning of this year.” He gave August a pained smile. “I also discovered who and what true friendship really was though, and I will always be grateful for that. I’ve learned to ignore the prejudiced people, and they’re entitled to their own opinion anyway. We just keep to our own paths, and I’m happy with mine.” Theo smiled, leaning his arm on the dining table and looking around the gradually diminishing amount of students. Dinnertime was nearly over. “What makes you ask me anyway, August?” They asked curiously, preferring to switch the topic from himself to his companion. He didn’t like to talk and take over the floor too much. Theo was social, but not a talkative person.

[August Reid R7]

Soon the back of his neck would have a bright red spot. But he couldn't help it! This topic was making him nervous and uncomfortable and therefore he was rubbing the back of his neck. But it was also a very important topic to August. Experience has taught him that the more you talk about something, the less uncomfortable it becomes. This was definitely one of those topics that he was unfamiliar with. August didn't have any gay role models in his life, none that he knew of anyway, so he didn't have the opportunity to learn and ask when he was growing up. Theo was just lucky that Bronsen wasn't here. When Bronsen wanted to find the answer to something, he would pry and pry until the truth was worn out. But then he would be satisfied. August would only ask as far as Theo was willing to share. After all, they were practically strangers! They had seen each other around the castle and it the common room but they had never really had a conversation. Especially one about Theo's choice of sexuality. Or maybe, sexual preference. August just didn't know. That was another reason he was asking, he just didn't know. He really wanted to ask Theo some intimate questions such as "Have you ever kissed a boy?" or "Have you ever had a boyfriend?" and especially "Have you ever loved someone?" But August thought that the Great Hall probably was not the best of places to ask those questions. Maybe they would sit down in the Common Room or go for a walk around the School Grounds and he would get to ask those questions. But not today.

August listened intently to Theo's answer. Luckily Theo was a good translator of mumblings and could understand what August was trying to say. All August could do was nod when Theo finished his question for him. It seemed like such an odd question to ask someone, but it was a question that needed to be asked. It was a question that was similar to "How did you know you were a boy?" It was an weird question but one that needed to be answered. While listening to Theo give his answer he heard the first years next to him snicker. They could have been laughing about anything but when you are talking about a sensitive subject, such as sexuality, your mind tends to assume that they are snickering about what you are talking about. August glanced at them quickly and gave them a dirty look. They quickly stopped laughing and swiftly left. Feeling slightly satisfied, August turned his attention back to Theo. "Sorry about that," August told him, "but I don't want to have to worry about what they're thinking. Please go on." Those first years were probably snickering about something else, first years were usually preoccupied with their own lives to notice anything going on around them but better safe than sorry. August was really self conscious and so any laughter that he was not a part of he felt was directed at him. August was unsure whether Theo felt that way or not. Maybe he was used to laughter behind his back. But August wanted to make this conversation as safe as possible.

Then came the question that August knew was coming. "What makes you ask me anyway, August?" It was not possible to ask this kind of question of someone without them being curious as to why you would ask them such a question. August sighed. He knew why he was asking this question. And he thought that Theo secretly knew why he was asking as well. There was only one reason that you would ask that question. The questioner was wondering if they were gay. It might be a question that all people eventually ask themselves. But when you are asking yourself that question, it seems like you are the only person in the entire world that has thought that. August tore his gaze away from Theo before answering. He couldn't look into those blue eyes and talk about this sensitive subject. "I don't know. I guess, I guess I've sort of always felt different from other boys. I mean, I guess I've always known that I was different from other boys. I don't think like them. I don't have the same goals as they do. I don't feel like one of them. I've always been the sensitive one. All my good friends have been girls. I've always wondered, if that means something. If... you know."

[Theo Darke]

Hearing the snickering behind him, Theo rolled his eyes. They swivelled round to land on a few first years, too young to know what they wanted and what they thought of the real world... too young, in fact, to have even experienced the real world, never mind form an opinion of it. Even so, a long time ago, their insensitive actions would have pained him. But now, Theo wasn't hurt by their actions (if they were directed at him); he was too used to it by now, all the stares and whispers and teasing. He just didn't care. He didn't forgive them exactly, but he did understand that, at least, these kids were young, and had yet to form a proper opinion. What Theo disliked the most were the stuck-up, pompous classmates in his year and above, who thought they knew everything. They should know better, and yet they didn't care they could hurt someone's feelings, shatter their confidence... ruin their life. "It's all right." Theo waved his hand dismissively as he watched August glare at the first years, but a smile pressed upon his lips. "Thanks for that." He finally said as the Ravenclaws moved away, evidently threatened by August's menacing stare. "I'm used to it, you know?" Theo took a small sip of his pumpkin juice, his eyes following the backs of the children out of the Great Hall. He had once been their age; naive, innocent, and most of all, ignorant. He hoped... or rather, he was sure he himself had never been quite so obnoxious as a child. Maybe it had been his parents; upbringing and a stable lifestyle - in terms of family, friends... Theo had a surprisingly happy childhood, free of anything dark or disturbing. He was one of the only ones so unscarred.

Understanding dawned on Theo as August explained himself. So this was why the fourth year was so curious as to ask him... the thought had not even struck Theo. A lot of people asked him about his sexuality; some out of curiousity, some out of spite, some out of a desire to understand him more... but not once had he thought that someone would want to ask him advice because they felt they were gay themselves. Theo was one of few gay students in the school, but it had to be said, there were more and more nowadays, which wasn't surprising. The modern community was becoming more and more accepting. However, despite this, there were still extremely prejudiced individuals out there. Theo scrutinised August carefully as he spoke; the younger boy was evidently nervous, and Theo didn't blame him. He had been his age when realisation of his sexuality had hit him, and goodness, he had been so, so confused and scared. Most of all, Theo had felt out of place... different... and alone. At the beginning, he had been terrified that people - his family, his friends, Lori - would hate him for the person he really was. But, he had found that strength, and he had told his best friend. Though, Theo didn't think it was any strength on his part - his close bond with Lori, his trust in her, had made him decide to come out. Without knowing she would be there for him, Theo would've never done what he did, would not be where he was today. And Theo knew August needed that reassurance if he was indeed gay.

"Well... for one, you don't need to be 'different' to be gay." Theo started gently with a smile. "There are lots of gay people in the world you would never, ever imagine were gay. Just because you're girlier or whatever does not automatically mean you are; it's just another stupid stereotype, which can or cannot be true in each case. In your case, it could mean you're gay, it might not. You have to look at the bigger picture." He sent August a reassuring smile. "First off, do you like girls? In that way. That's always a good place to start." He laughed jovially. "If you, even now, have no interest in girls in that way, then the chances of you being gay are possible. Or maybe it's because your hormones haven't really developed. I was an early bloomer, you can say, but lots of us don't start puberty till sixth year." Theo shrugged contemplatively, "Second, are you attracted to boys? An even bigger inclination, obviously. But I think most of all, if you feel that you are gay, if you feel that being with a boy is right, then that is what should tell yourself that yes, you're gay. You don't need to be different. Being gay isn't necessarily 'different'. It's just a different preference." Theo cracked a humoured smile, gauging August's reaction. "Don't get me wrong - I'm not saying you are or are not gay just by you telling me you're different to most boys and you prefer the company of girls as friends. It could mean something. But, it could mean nothing as well. I wouldn't worry too much over such an issue. My best friend is a girl, I'll admit that, but I have... or had a lot of friends who were guys. I'm not what you call a manly man, but I'm not a girly one either." He paused for a moment, then sighed. "My personal opinion is, whoever you are attracted to or fall in love with doesn't matter; their gender doesn't matter. The fact of the matter is, you love them. Nothing should change that. They have all these labels like 'gay', 'straight', 'bi'... but who cares?"

[August Reid R7]

August listened earnestly to what Theo had to say. After all, Theo was a year older than he. That meant that he had a year's more life experience to pass on to others. And he wasn't smug about it either. That was something that August really appreciated. Too many times had he tried to talk to older students and they tried to pretend like they knew everything. No one knows everything. If you did, what would be the point of living? There would never be new experiences or new challenges. Jack was like that sometimes. August would try and come to his older brother with a problem and Jack would act like that particular problem was far beneath him. Even though Jack was only a few years older than August. August could not understand what made people act like that. That's probably one of the reasons Jack ended up in Slytherin. They were all smug. That is why when August could not solve a problem by himself he usually approached a fellow Ravenclaw or a Hufflepuff. Gyrffindors were just as bad as Slytherins. August wondered what house that boy was in. Whatever house he was in, he did not seem like the smug type. August had thought a lot about this boy over the last few weeks. This one of the reasons he decided to talk to Theo today. August was glad to hear that Theo had become a prefect at the beginning of the year. It gave August an excuse to get to know Theo better. Or at least observe him without seeming weird. He had learned a little about the prefect from Bronsen. He was glad to be learning a little more today.

"I didn't mean 'different' in a bad context. I meant it as... I don't know what I meant. Unique maybe. Maybe that's a better word," he tried to explain to Theo. Theo had almost seemed offended by the word 'different.' August couldn't blame him. He imagined that Theo had gone through a lot since coming out. He probably had had many people call him 'different' in a bad way. But this time August didn't mean it as a bad thing. "I just feel different in that the way I feel is unique from the other boys of my year. That's all. I don't think that it is a bad thing. I don't think it's a good thing. It just is. That's the way it is. I was just wondering if, you know, if you ever felt different." August sipped his juice as Theo listed off some questions. "I hadn't really thought about it. I mean, being with girls or boys." The image of the boy August had bumped into before Winter Break flashed into his mind. August was minding his own business when he had accidentally ran into this guy. The bloke had looked into his eyes and then ran away. It was the strangest thing and yet August could not get the image out of his head. He had thought about it all break. August thought it queer that he kept thinking about a person, especially when it was a person that he had never officially met. But August wouldn't have minded being close to him.

Theo seemed flustered almost as if August's question had caught him by surprise. August smiled inwardly. It was nice to know that even though Theo had come out he still didn't have all the answers. He was still doing all right though. To August, that meant that no matter his decision, things will turn out all right in the end. August took another drink of his juice as the bell for afternoon classes rang. He placed the cup down on the table knowing that the House Elves would take care of it. He then smiled at Theo. "Thanks. You've given me a lot to think about. You certainly put me in a better mood than Divination put me into. Although, next I have Potions. But I'm going in with a good mood instead of an awful one." August wiped his mouth with the back of his sleeve. A horrible habit but one that August could not shake. He picked up his knapsack, stood up, and let his body drift into the exodus of students. "I'll see you later Theo! If not in the common room than at practise. And thanks!"