Learning of Worlds-Private

[HopesWings]

///Thank you. And we do make a good pair, don't we?

Ellie looked up at the man with uncertainty. The invitation to explore this new place was tempting. The chance to meet other children her age, the chance to explore somewhere she had not seen before. It was a strong temptation, but also one she knew she could not accept. Biting her lip for the briefest second of indecision, she shook her head. "No,"she muttered softly, sadly, "I need to get back home. Nan must be worried sick about me, and I do miss it." She did miss her home. It was not nearly as nice as this place, not as warm or as welcoming, and it did not offer food, but it was home. Pushing away her disappointment, she stood up. Her tiny feet were still bare. Either shoes had not been found for her, or she had refused them.

At just that moment, as it happened to be Snape's luck so much of the time, Harry Potter and his two friends rounded the corner. They stopped, staring at the sight before them. Ron's mouth fell open, and Hermione looked shocked. Harry forced a nervous smile as he locked eyes with Ellie. "Hello Ellie,"the boy forced out nervously. He was trying his hardest to ignore Severus, which came of no surprise to anyone. "Good morning Harry,"Ellie replied politely, but there was an annoyance in her small voice. She was ready to move, and idle talk was not in her to-do. Seeming to get the message, Harry gave her a swift nod before he and his friends hurried past. None of them dared to glance Snape's way. Feet behind them, Ron began whispering loudly.

Ellie watched the three leave. "They're a funny lot,"she decided. She waited until they were out of sight before returning her dark orbs to Severus. If she was unnerved by meeting them, she showed no sign of it. She just appeared impatient. "Can we leave now?"