Generally speaking, Hogwarts students usually got up very late for breakfast on weekends.
However, today was the day the Triwizard Tournament champions were to be chosen, and George got up much earlier than usual.
When George climbed out of bed, he noticed one bed in the dormitory was empty and realized Albert might not have returned all night.
This had happened before, but Albert would usually ask the three of them in advance to feed the cat. Leaving for the night without saying a word was clearly not a good sign.
George immediately woke his two roommates.
"What are you up to so early in the morning?" Fred complained, rubbing his eyes and struggling to open them.
Lee Jordan, in the neighboring bed, covered a yawn with his hand, his face still full of undisguised sleepiness.
"Did Albert tell either of you he wouldn't be back last night?" George asked, reaching out to feel Albert's bed.
"No. Don't worry, it's not the first time. He probably ran off to meet his girlfriend." Fred closed his eyes again, tucked his neck in, and burrowed back under the covers, ready to catch up on his sleep.
"His girlfriend graduated last term." George frowned. If Isabelle were still at school, that would have been quite possible.
"He's probably picked up a new girlfriend." With his eyes shut, Fred said, "It's Albert. If he really wanted another girlfriend, he could probably find one faster than you could change clothes."
"That guy doesn't need you worrying about him. Just remember to feed his cat," Lee Jordan mumbled, lying back down. "If you're really worried, go check the Room of Requirement yourself."
Though he hated to admit it, George knew his concern was probably unnecessary. He looked toward Fat Cat Tom, who was dozing away without