peckenpaugh | (no subject)

There is a new computer in the computer lab today. An old Mac, paid for and fixed up by the Muggle Tech TA. It's a repayment. For the four PCs he bricked in November and the fifth he bricked in April.

It's also a memorial, of sorts. Lionel carefully carves the letters LQ into the underside of the machine. A small tribute to Mr. Qualls' son. A son he cannot remember, but one who Lionel wants to keep close. Even if it's in a way unknown to his teacher. The L and Q have also been swapped on the keyboard.

Lastly, it's an attempt to contact Lionel Qualls. Inside the computer is a locked folder. With a word processing document. With a very literal title. FOR_LIONEL.doc. It reads:

A few of us are going to the bowling alley's basement soon. At least one from each house, just like you said. We know freezing charms and some of us can cast Patronuses. If there's anything else you can tell us -- things we should know, things to expect, whatever -- you can reply here. I will check back every day. I know you might be limited in what you can share. I know you might not even find this. But I had to ask.

My name is Lionel, too. I'm not sure if you knew that. I'm not sure how much you know about what's going on right now. I'm the Muggle Tech TA and work closely with your dad. One time I asked him about his brother. He became overcome with a flood of suppressed memories. He said your name. I thought he was saying my name at the time. But now I realize it was you. He still remembers you, deep down.

I hope you're okay, wherever you are. We're coming.