Pairing: Percy/Ron.

Rating: PG-13.

Disclaimer: No copyright infringement intended. Both Ron and Perce owned by JK.

Summary: Now torturing Percy...

The lights were already on in Percy's flat. Firelight played about a dim figure slumped in the couch, barely discernible through the window. All that could be seen was the tell-tale red hair.

Percy slowed. He considered leaving, abandoning his unwelcome guest for a local pub for a few hours. But he knew better. No matter how late he returned, he'd still be there. Weasleys were stubborn like that.

He squared his shoulders and raised his chin, then primly opened the door with a spell.

His brother looked up from the couch, his eyes more serious than Percy had ever seen them. Beyond the couch was a tall man, pouring a drink; the very last person Percy ever wanted to see: Ron.

So.

Ron met his eyes apologetically, his face open. The nervous glance quickly dropped to the floor. They hadn't been able to meet each other's eyes for weeks. Ron crossed the room without looking at Percy, and set the drink down in front of their brother.

Percy let out a heavy breath.

"Bill," Percy finally managed to say, as he hung up his cloak. His throat was tight. "This is an unexpected surprise."

No matter the situation, Percy was never less than polite.