Disclaimer and Notes: Harry Potter belongs to JK Rowling and no copyright infringement is intended.
This story starts out darker than any of the previous stories that I've posted. I had a few long discussions with the author about the subject matter. She tells me the first few chapters will talk a lot about self-harm and child abuse but that the story ultimately heads into lighter territory. If you or someone you know is in a similar situation, there are many resources out there, you are not alone.
Chapter 1: The Dursleys
Harry lay on his bed in his tiny bedroom at the Dursleys. He looked out the window at the dark sky. It was evening, and dinner was going to start soon. Ever since a half-giant named Hagrid came to see him, telling him that he was a wizard, his Uncle Vernon and Aunt Petunia have been treating him worse than usual. Every night after dinner, Uncle Vernon would beat him until he could barely make it back to his room.
"BOY!" roared Uncle Vernon. "Get down here! It's time for dinner!"
Harry quickly got out of bed and went downstairs for dinner, though he knew that he would not get very much to eat. He knew that his punishment would be harsh tonight.
After dinner, Uncle Vernon grabbed Harry by the collar and pulled him into the sitting room. Uncle Vernon took off his belt and snarled; "Take off your trousers and shirt, now."
This is new, Harry thought. Normally his uncle just started hitting him, no belt involved.
Harry hurriedly took off his clothes, knowing better than to disobey. Uncle Vernon smiled at him. There were cuts running down Harry's arms.
"Good boy," said Aunt Petunia, coming into the room. "You hurt yourself again! Just you wait until your Uncle Vernon's done with you tonight!"
The first blow hit him by surprise. The belt hit hard, and Harry staggered backwards. After a couple more hits he was laying on the ground, pleading for his uncle to stop.
Five minutes later, Uncle Vernon let Harry go back to his room, but not before he said, "Remember boy, you are a freak. Do not let that freak school and its professors tell you anything different."
Harry went to his room. He was excited to go to Hogwarts, but he was nervous too. Before long, everyone would know that he was a freak, and no one would like him, just like in primary school. Hagrid would only like him until he found out the truth. Then Harry would have no one.
Well, Harry thought, at least I have the razor blade I can use to relieve the pain of being alone.