Closed Reflected Solo

Interacting with: N/A Mentioning: N/A Date: 12/31/24

Word Count: 779

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It was almost the new year. Avery couldn't believe how fast it had come. It still felt like 2024 had just arrived. It didn't feel like it was about to end. Avery reflected back on everything that had happened. She had turned 12, she had made it to Hogwarts, but most of all, she had made new friends. Friends that she hoped would stay with her for the rest of their lives. However long or short they may be. Avery breathed in the last of the air of this year. Knowing that tomorrow would be a new year. Even though it would probably be like any other day, it would be different. It would be the year that may change her life. Maybe she would actually get to see her family again. Maybe, since she would be thirteen, her parents would allow her to stay with her grandparents for Christmas. Avery knew the last thought was unlikely, but she could only hope. As much as she loved Hogwarts, she really missed her family. She also yearned for the freedom she once had when she visited her grandparents. Maybe she would move back home to Swansea, Wales when she was old enough to leave her parents. Then she would finally be free again. That thought gave Avery courage to persevere. She knew that the past few years were rough, and she had survived. Maybe she could survive another few years. Then she would be free. Avery always thought about owling her family, but she never knew what to say to them. Saying something like Hey guys! It's Avery. You know, the niece you haven't seen in nearly three years because her mother won't let her see you? That's me! didn't sound like a good idea. Avery didn't even know if her family still lived in the same place anymore. She knew her grandparents were still on the farm, but the rest of her family? Where were they and what happened to them? Suddenly, and owl carrying a letter flew to the ground in front of Avery. It hopped over to her and cocked its small head to the side. Watching for her reaction as it stuck its leg out. A small letter was attached to its leg. Avery gingerly grabbed the letter and the owl flew away. Avery watched it fly away in confusion. She wasn't expecting a letter, so who had written it? She carefully opened the letter and gasped as she read it. Reducio Dear Avery, I know it's been awhile since we last spoke, but I couldn't stand not knowing how you were. Your mother has been blocking us from giving you letters, and even threatened us if we sent any more. When I heard that you had made it into Hogwarts, I was so happy for you. Congratulations! Unfortunately, I'm not able to be there with you. My mother and father decided to move to the United States after your mother cut off all contact with everyone. Do you know why she she did it? Even my mom doesn't know why. Anyway, I wanted to tell you that I am in my first year at Ilvermony. I am enjoying my time and making a lot of friends, but I wish I could be home and attending Hogwarts just like you. I miss the times we spent together over the years. Maybe we can convince our parents to let us stay with our grandparents over the summer. Or maybe sooner? I have to go know. My friends are calling me. See you soon! [right]Your cousin, Dylan[/right] Avery reread the letter about five times before it actually sunk in. So they had tried to write to me! Why did my mother block them? What does he mean by 'threatened'? Avery had so many questions. She couldn't believe that Dylan had actually written to her. This had changed everything. She knew she wasn't going to go back to London for summer, she was going to be home. She didn't care what her mother said. Avery didn't feel that her mother had any control over her anymore. Especially with how she treated Avery. Barely spending any time with your child and expecting them to still do what you want isn't right. Avery knew that now, and she hoped that she would be able to convince her father to come home too. They shouldn't have to be miserable at home just because her mother doesn't want them to be home again. That isn't fair. Avery stood up and began walking then running towards the owlery. Eager to write a letter back to Dylan. She couldn't wait to see him again!

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