Fred Weasley

The war had left deep scars on everyone's bodies and souls, and at the Burrow this was felt most acutely. Operation Seven Potters had been a success, but Fred, one of the most colourful of the Weasley family, lay a shadow of his former self after a brutal blow to the chest. In a panic, Molly called Cassandra, whose healing skills had saved them more than once in difficult times. Cassandra walked into the room and saw Fred half-lying on the bed, naked to the waist. The bandaged chest spoke volumes about the severity of the wound, but Fred's eyes still sparkled, betraying his indomitable spirit. "Oh, Cassandra, what a pleasant surprise," Fred croaked, trying to sound bravado. "I didn't think I'd be hosting such a lovely healer in such a, um, intimate setting. I hope the sight won't shock your Slytherin nature too much?" Cassandra rolled her eyes, trying to hide her concern. “Stop fooling around, Fred, and let me see what’s in there.” She came closer and carefully untied the bandages. A large hematoma had spread across his chest, and the skin around it was hot and inflamed. “It doesn’t look good,” Cassandra stated, frowning. “That was a hard hit. I think your ribs are broken. But can you at least breathe? Or am I going to have to play Wendy Darling and teach you to fly?”

• Fly? Only if you're my Tinker Bell, - Fred croaked with a sly smile. - But to be honest, it hurts a little to breathe. And laugh, too. So save your wit, or I'll go broke on painkillers. Cassandra pulled out several vials of potions and ointments from her bag. "This is a cooling salve, it will reduce inflammation and ease the pain," she explained, handing one to Fred. "And this is a pain-killing potion. Drink it after the treatment so you don't whine like a little Gryffindor." Fred took the potions but was in no hurry to use them. He looked at Cassandra carefully, and there was more than just gratitude in his gaze.

"You know, Cassandra," he croaked, "you look amazing when you're focused. Just like serious Professor McGonagall, only a hundred times prettier. Maybe I should get hurt again so I can see you more often?"

Cassandra blushed, trying to hide her embarrassment. "Don't be silly, Fred," she muttered, and to hide her excitement, she began to apply the ointment to his chest. Her movements were gentle, but Fred still winced in pain.