Rival

Rival

by V-Star

I've always been the favorite. I didn't really ask for it, but ever since I entered the wizarding world I went from being worse than scum to being a hero, a celebrity. What if I had never been anyone? What if I had never had my parents killed? Or had a stupid scar imprinted on my head for life? What if I had never been released into the Muggle world, or had never become famous? I am reminded of this every day, every time I turn the page of a book where my own name is mentioned. Everytime I secretly see Ron sneak a glance at my face with a look of longing, longing for a taste of my un-earned fame, my un-wanted powers. Why have I been given so many gifts when people around me deserve them more?

I'm not allowed to mess up either. If I had been a total git I would never hear the end of it. I sometimes wonder if my friendship with Ron and Hermione has something to do with my fame. I was, after all, the famous Harry Potter, perfect in every way.

What a load of bullshit. Why can't I walk down a hallway without people staring at me? I feel searched by eyes every single moment.

Because I play up to it. I try to be good; I try to use my brain effectively. Maybe if...maybe if I had just listened to the small voice in the back of my head on the train first year when Draco Malfoy had offered a handshake.... I would be a rebel.

He is my rival. Seen by my fellow Gryffindors as a complete git, seen by myself as an equal. He is equal to me; he just never had the chances I have to show it. He never would be interested in the dark arts if his father hadn't molded him so, shaped him to watch the one he forcefully sided with fight a losing battle year after year. He wants me dead. It would make him happy.

But I know, he would feel the same loss as I would if he died. He would lose a rival...and dare I say this...yes, maybe even...a friend.

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~End~