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Chapter 2: Fatherly Advice
The next day found James frowning fiercely at the small roll of parchment in front of him. He'd hurried through his lessons and was trying to write the essay his father assigned. He could hear laughter floating in the window as Andrew and Lily played tag in the garden. His father's words kept repeating themselves and he felt bad for being mean to his mum. With a sigh, he finished writing and went outside to join the game of tag. Harry read the essay and told James he was proud of him for taking the time to write out his thoughts. He was not as pleased with the content of the lessons but they were complete.
Albus Dumbledore signed the letter he was writing just as the fireplace chimed in the tone that indicated Harry and his family was about to floo in. Moments later, Harry stepped out clutching Lily's hand, Ginny was right behind him with James and Andrew.
"Papa!" Lily cried, running to Albus and hugging him tight.
"Hello there Lily," Albus said.
"Papa, can I have some candy?" James asked.
"Only if it is ok with your mum and dad. It is nearly time for dinner," Albus said.
"Just one, James. Same goes to you, Lily, and you, Andrew," said Harry.
"Yes dad," said the three children at the same time.
"Kids, go play in the sitting room a moment," Harry said. "Your mother and I need to speak with Albus, privately. We'll meet you there and order dinner."
Lily was about to protest but caught sight of her mother's gaze and thought better of it. Deciding her brothers were going to cause trouble, she grabbed both of their hands and pulled them with her into the next room.
"What is it you two want to talk to me about?" Albus asked.
"We're considering sending Andrew and Lily to a muggle primary school. Harry suggested it as a way to distract them from the fact he's working outside of the house every day. I think it is worth looking into so they are better prepared for Hogwarts. The muggleborn students seemed less distressed over the concept of homework, especially in First Year. We'd also like to ask if you would be willing to tutor James, or have a Seventh Year do so for a few afternoons a week. He's really unhappy with Harry gone and acting out by refusing to complete his home lessons," said Ginny, watching as Albus looked contemplative.
"I think a muggle primary school is an excellent idea. Harry and Hermione turned out just fine. I will speak with a few of the Seventh Years; I know a few have expressed an interest in teaching. I will let you know," finished Albus.
"Thank you Albus," Ginny said with a relieved smile.
"When I was leaving the Ministry yesterday, Lucius Malfoy stopped me and said that I should not be working there and that I should be protecting my family from danger," Harry said. "But there's no danger."
Albus was silent for a moment. "I honestly don't have an answer for you," he said slowly. "It sounds like he probably just wants to scare you, like he always does."
"Yeah, I'm sure of it," Harry said. "But I hesitate to completely brush off the vague warning." "Let's order dinner and see what the kids are up to. Lily probably has them playing house or having a tea party, she takes after her mum's fiery personality," Harry said, catching Ginny's wicked smile.
Albus was right, Lucius Malfoy was quite dark and likely still attempted to intimidate and manipulate people in order to accomplish his goals. Harry shook his head. If Albus said it wasn't anything to worry about, then it wasn't anything to worry about. Right?
