"Well, there you are, Harry dear." Mrs. Weasley smiled as she brushed off Harry's shirt. She'd finally gotten around to giving Harry the hair cut he'd wanted. Mrs. Weasley had been delighted to trim up Harry's shaggy hair, and now it looked much like it normally did, sticking out all over the place as if he'd been riding his broom through a windstorm. Ginny commented that he now looked his normal dashing self, before blushing furiously and dashing off.

"Thanks, Mrs. Weasley. It's perfect." Harry smiled as she hugged him tightly.

"Best finish getting your trunk packed. We won't have a lot of time tomorrow morning," she said, ushered him out of the kitchen.

August had soared by. They had celebrated Ginny's 14th birthday shortly after Harry's arrival, and there had been a non-stop war on the house, which seemed to be fighting back. For every room they cleaned, it seemed another would grow dark and musty and gross over night. Sirius had no explanation save that his mother may have cursed the house just before she died.

Most nights Harry and Hermione spent in the library, compiling lists of spells to try out once they got back to Hogwarts. Hermione had asked Sirius if she might borrow a book on Runes, which he gladly gave her to keep. She had been surprised, but accepted gratefully.

Harry had been quite perplexed when Hedwig had returned from her delivery with no answer. He thought maybe his friend may have decided it best not to continue writing to him. He could think of no other reason for her to not write back. This had troubled him a bit, but as he lost himself in his studies, and the cleaning of the Black house, and the attempts to glean information when the Order met, had all but driven his concerns out of his mind.

Ron had been quite keen that this secret Slytherin no longer seemed interested in his friend. He remarked whenever the topic came up, that it was for the best and that nothing good could come of associated with serpents. Harry would simply shake his head and change the subject.

Harry spent as much time with his Godfather as he could. They spent hours talking about Harry's parents, with Remus joining them often. Harry and Sirius were never left alone for more than a few minutes, and it made it difficult to learn anything new about Voldemort. Mrs. Weasley had perfected the art of subterfuge, or would have if Harry and Sirius hadn't known what she was up to. Sirius promised that it would be easier once Harry was back at school. Mrs. Weasley couldn't hover, and Harry still had his mirror.

Ron was polishing the new Cleansweep his parents had gotten him when Harry got back to their room after his haircut. He did this constantly. So much so that Ginny had told him he might polish it out of existence. All Ron seemed to talk about was the broom and Quidditch. So much so that Harry was glad for the library as it was the one room Ron seemed to avoid.

"Hey, Harry." Ron looked up nervously. Harry felt himself stiffen. He couldn't say why, but it seemed like he'd just walked into some kind of trap. Ron stood up and closed the door, peering continuously around for what, Harry couldn't say. He suddenly turned on Harry.

"What do you think of Hermione?"

Harry stumbled backward and toppled into his bed. Ron looked very anxious. Harry felt like he'd been slapped. He stared at Ron, who looked very anxious. Harry tried to speak a couple of times, but nothing came out of his mouth. Finally, he cleared his throat, and his voice seem to come back to him.

"She's my best friend. Like my sister. She's the best. Why?" He asked, his curiosity getting the better of him

"It's just you've been spending more time with her than me, and you're always in the library, and I just thought you two might…"

"Hang on. You fancy Hermione?" Harry asked surprised.

"Er, that is…" Ron stammered, obviously cornered. Harry almost burst out laughing at the redhead's obvious discomfort, but managed to maintain his composure.

"You fancy Hermione and you thought that she and I…"

"You have to admit, it kind of looks that way. You two are almost always together."

"Ron, we're studying. I told you, I'm trying to be more prepared in case anything happens. Blimey, mate. How long have you liked her that way?" Harry chuckled to himself. Ron sat heavily on his own bed, covering his face.

"I don't know. Since last year, I guess. I was really angry about the whole Viktor thing, and I know my anger gets the better of me sometimes. After that, I just sort of saw her differently, you know? But it seems like ever since she got here…I mean, this summer, …I mean, I'm trying really hard not to argue with her."

Harry thought about it, and realized that not once had the two of them argued, bickered or even snapped at each other. It had been pleasantly quiet between the two of them. It suddenly made sense.

"Wow. So what are you going to do?" Harry asked supportively.

"I don't know. I mean, why would someone as great as Hermione see anything worthwhile in me?" Ron asked, self pity dripping heavily.

"Isn't it for her to decide that? I mean, sure, it's possible she doesn't share the same feelings for you. But, it's possible she does. You'll never know if you don't at least try, mate. I can't see any benefit from keeping it to yourself."

"Like you and Cho?" Ron asked.

"What do you mean?"

"Well, you liked her all last year and she went with Cedric, and, and…I don't know. Why is this all so confusing?"

"Mate, if it were easy, it probably wouldn't be worth it." Harry grinned. "So, are you going to tell Hermione?"

"Maybe. But not here. It'd be too embarrassing if she shot me down. At least at school, Fred and George will get distracted and only take the mickey out of me a little while, you know?"

"I see your point." Harry conceded. "But, don't wait too long. She's a great girl, and it won't be long before other blokes notice her too. Don't make the same mistake that you did at the Yule Ball."

"You should take your own advice, mate. Maybe talk to Cho?" Ron smiled.

"I don't know. I think I might keep my options open." Harry smiled back, an image of Tracey Davis filling his head. He shook it clear and began gathering all his school things.

A knock at the door brought both boys out of their individual thoughts.

"Harry, this letter just arrived. Perhaps from a lovely little lady?" Sirius goaded. Harry tore at the letter but Sirius was far faster. He pulled back and inspected the envelope.

"Hmmm, no name. Ah, a secret admirer." Sirius began laughing as Harry began getting a bit more aggressive in trying to retrieve his letter.

"Sirius, you're walking on thin ice." Harry challenged.

"Smells quite sweet. This young lady has perfumed the letter, no doubt."

Harry let out a war cry and charged Sirius who deftly side stepped and tore off down the hall, Harry on his heels. They ran throughout the house, Sirius continuing to goad his godson about his lady friend, and Harry threatening to end Sirius' life.

They reached the library, startling Hermione who had been reading quietly by herself. The poor girl nearly jumped out of her skin when the two males crashed through the library doors. Sirius turned to say something more to Harry, not realizing how close the boy was. Harry launched himself through the air, tackling Sirius over one of the big chairs, both of them falling to the floor. Sirius lost hold of the letter, trying to keep Harry from getting it. The two men rolled around on the floor, each tickling the other, trying to pin their opponent, laughing out loud.

Finally, Sirius had pinned Harry under him.

"Give up, pup. I'm bigger, stronger, faster…" Sirius bragged.

"Don't forget dumber and uglier." Harry smiled, He flipped his legs up and twisted himself under Sirius, catching the man off guard and Sirius found himself pinned under Harry.

"Now, old man. Where is my letter?"

"You know, Sirius, you should never provoke anyone who has fought and defeated a dragon, by himself." Hermione smirked, as she waved Harry's letter. She had picked it up after Sirius dropped it.

"I'll get you back, pup. You'll be here for Christmas. I'll take my revenge then." He laughed as he stood, clapping Harry on the back.

"Talk is cheap. I'll be even more prepared by then." Harry grinned widely as he took his letter from Hermione. She only shook her head and grumbled, "Boys".

Harry looked at Hermione a moment and then sat down. She sensed him looking at her and looked up.

"What is it?" she asked concerned

"Nothing really. I just…well I don't know if I should be the one to say. I've just noticed you and Ron haven't fought at all this summer." Harry said, not knowing why he felt a need to warn Hermione about Ron's feelings.

Hermione looked taken aback.

"You know, I believe you're right. He's been very pleasant. It's kind of strange."

"He mentioned it to me, a little while ago. I, well, I shouldn't say. But, I'm curious. I don't know how to ask without giving it away." Harry puzzled.

"Secrets aren't very good among friends, Harry." Hermione said wisely.

"I know. But it's not my secret to share. Promise me you'll talk to Ron when we get back to school. And be honest with him. He deserves that at least."

"What are you talking about? Why should I talk to Ron?"

"Just trust me on this." Harry said as he got up. He smiled to her and went back to his room. He clutched the letter tightly until he was back in his room. Ron was not there at the moment, and Harry was thankful for that. He really didn't want to hear more on his philosophy about house relations.

Dear Harry,

I'm so sorry it took so long to write back. You see I went with my best friend's family to Italy for a couple of weeks and only just got back. My sister took the letter from your owl and apparently read it as well. I wanted to curse her into next year. Fortunately, she knows how to keep a secret, and like me, hates most of what the other Slytherins are like. She has a small group of friends, though she hangs out with a couple of Ravenclaw second years. She's also a second year.

Wow, I must say I'm impressed, though I think talking with Hermione might be considered cheating. I am sorry to say that I am not a blonde. And as there are no redheads in Slytherin, you've narrowed down the field quite a bit.

My friend appreciates what you told us about Neville. She's thinking of writing him. Do you think he'd be opposed to making a friend or even a girlfriend with a Slytherin? I myself don't find him attractive in that way, but she swears there's more to him than anyone else sees.

Well, school is starting in mere hours now. I'm anxious to get back, but am not looking forward to going back to my house. Another year of Malfoy strutting around and making everyone miserable, on top of that we have that Ministry appointed teacher. I think you should watch out for yourself, Harry. I think there's going to be a lot of trouble this year. I don't believe in Divination, but sometimes I think I might be a great Seer.

I'll see you on the train, even if you don't see me. Write soon

?

So she hadn't abandoned him, Harry smiled and sighed. He could smell the faintest perfume now that the letter was close to his nose. He inhaled deeply. He didn't think she'd ever done that before.

It didn't matter. She hadn't forgotten him, or stopped writing, she had just been away. Harry tried to think of anything he might have written that would be embarrassing to him. She had said her little sister had read the letter. Harry couldn't remember what he'd written, so tried not to worry. He got up and quickly pulled out fresh parchment.

More importantly, she had all but told him who she was.

"She's not Tracey." Harry whispered to himself. "It only leaves one person"

So far as Harry could remember, there were no redheads in Slytherin. His friend had told him so, anyway. Hermione had helped him narrow down all the possibilities, and now, Harry was confident he knew who had been writing to him all summer.

"Sirius said you got a letter!" Ron said as he came in. He was carrying a load of freshly laundered robes. He set some down on Harry's bed and stuffed the rest in his own trunk.

Ron then proceeded to try and read Harry's letter over his shoulder.

"Is it from the Slytherin girl?" There wasn't malice, but definitely disdain.

"It is. And I'm writing back." Harry said stiffly. Ron merely grunted and left Harry alone.

Dear?

I think I've got you figured out. Well, at least your identity. Since I'm feeling confident about it, I will just ask you. Are you, in fact, Daphne Greengrass? I know you didn't say you were in my year, but by process of elimination, it seems like the only logical choice.

This changes nothing as far as I'm concerned. I am still going to be your friend so long as you'd like me to be. I hope we can spend some time together in person. I think it would be nice to talk without having to dance around topics.

Tell you friend, (who must be Tracey Davis) that it might benefit Neville and herself to just strike up a conversation with him. He's shy, but I don't think he'd be mean just because of what house you're in. He might be a little stand offish at first. You'll have to give him time. It's the same with other Gryffindors, as well.

So how was Italy? I think I'd like to visit there someday. It'd be real nice to get out of England and go somewhere new altogether. Hermione goes to France with her family sometimes. She says it's quite nice.

I should finish this. I still have to pack. I hope you get this before school starts. If not, I suppose that I'll see you in school.

Harry

He beckoned Hedwig from her perch and tied the letter to her leg, and opened the window.

"Don't bother trying to return here, girl. I'll see you at school. Thanks for doing such a great job this summer." Harry grinned as Hedwig bumped her head into his, giving a very proud hoot before taking flight with her latest letter. Harry watched her go, a smile plastered on his face as he watched her fly.

"I bet it'd be nice to fly whenever you wanted." Harry mused. He finally shut the window and finished packing.


Dinner was an event that evening. Mrs. Weasley had pulled out all the stops, and there was a large gathering that night. Many members of the Order had stopped by, including Mad-Eye Moody, Tonks, Kingsley Shacklebolt, and Lupin.

Hermione and Ginny were deep in conversation with Tonks at one end of the table, they all seemed to being giggling quite a bit.

Fred and George were discussing with Sirius some ideas for jokes and pranks for the up coming year. Remus, Mad-Eye Moody, Mr. Weasley and Kingsley were all in hushed conversation. From the looks on their faces, it was quite definitely Order related. Harry would have given anything for an Extendable Ear just then.

"So, is everyone packed? We'll be leaving early tomorrow, and I want you all ready to go. After dinner I want you all to bring you trunks down, packed, locked and ready to go." Mrs. Weasley said to all the children.

"How are we getting to King's Cross?" Ron asked.

"We'll be taking the Underground." Mr. Weasley answered his son. "So, you'll all need to be dressed and ready to precisely at nine a.m."

"But the train doesn't leave until eleven! Why so early?" Ron asked incredulously.

"It's not as fast as traveling by floo, Ron." Hermione replied.

"And, you'll need to behave." Mr. Weasley added. "It won't do to draw attention to yourselves. We'll need to blend with the Muggles."

Harry had a hard time stifling his sudden urge to giggle. He knew there was no way Mr. Weasley could simply blend in. His fascination with Muggles would make that impossible.

"I'd like to go see them off." Sirius said. Everyone turned to him. Shock written on every face, except Harry's which looked happy and hopeful.

"I don't think that wise, Sirius. You are still wanted by the Ministry." Remus said as if it closed the subject.

"Sirius Black is wanted. Not Snuffles, the cuddly, lovable pooch." Sirius grinned. Harry grinned as well. He couldn't see the problem with Sirius coming as his dog animagus.

"That'd be brilliant." He said. Sirius grinned at him and clapped him on the shoulder.

"I don't think Dumbledore would approve." Mrs. Weasley said trying to dissuade Sirius.

"Molly, I've been trapped in this wretched place since last June. I need to get out and stretch my legs. I want to feel sunshine on my face. Nothing will happen, no one outside of the Order knows I'm an animagus. It'll be fine."

"That's not true." Remus said. "Peter has no doubt informed the Death Eaters of your ability, and we know many of them will be there seeing off their children. It'll only take one to identify you."

Harry deflated, as did Sirius.

"It isn't fair." Harry said sadly. "Why should you be stuck in here. Why don't you take a vacation. I hear Italy's nice."

Sirius perked up. "Is that where your little lady friend has been?"

Harry kicked Sirius under the table. Sirius howled with laughter and pain. Fred and George picked up on the comment.

"Oi, Harry. You got a girlfriend?" Fred grinned wolfishly.

"Who could the lucky lass be?" George wondered aloud.

"Look what you've done!" Harry cried as he buried his head in his arms, his face burning hot.

"The lovely Cho Chang perhaps?" George asked.

"Or did your date with Miss Patil bear unexpected fruit, and you've been sneaking off with to personally examine some of the more secluded places within the castle?" Fred grinned madly.

"Whomever she is, her letters smell quite lovely." Sirius added, fueling the fire. Harry groaned.

"She only did it this last time." He grimaced, but as he had his head buried in his arms, no one heard him.

"She's a Slytherin." Ron said scathingly.

"Ho ho. Good on you, Harry!" Remus smiled, finally unable to resist. "Never limit yourself to one house. Just like Sirius."

"I did always loved to sample the buffet."

"Enough of that talk. I'll not have you disrespecting women like that." Mrs. Weasley said sternly.

"Molly, you could hardly call anyone Sirius dated as a woman. No 'woman' would have had him." Remus laughed.

"Oi, you traitor. I'll have you know many women found my irresistible!" Sirius countered.

"And irritating." Remus added.

"We're off topic, here. Weren't we discussing young Harry's love life?" Fred asked. Harry cursed under his breath.

"No, we were not!" He shouted.

"Yes, Young Mister Weasley, I believe that was the topic of conversation." Sirius agreed, happy to get out of the limelight for a moment. "So, Harry, which lovely young Slytherin has you all of a tither?"

"Tither?" Harry asked confused.

"Don't think I haven't noticed how you always glance out the window as if you're expecting another sweet smelling parchment. Who is the mystery woman?" Sirius was relentless.

"Oh, somebody kill me." Harry buried his head again.

"He doesn't know. She's not told him her name." Ron added, still irritated by the fact a Slytherin dared write his friend. Harry couldn't help but glare at his best friend for being so obstinate.

"Ron. Don't you think Harry would like to keep it to himself?" Hermione scolded. Ron had the good sense to look at least a little sorry.

"A secret admirer?!" Fred, George, Sirius and Remus shouted.

"I'm never going to hear the end of this." Harry thought glumly.

He was subjected to loads more teasing and good nature ridicule until Mrs. Weasley, thankfully, came to his aid, and pointed out that at least Harry had a lady friend, and that maybe all three of her present sons should be following his example. This of course opened up Sirius, Remus and even Mad-Eye to taunt and goad the three Weasley boys. Harry even landed a couple of choice comments regarding the redheads seemingly non-existent love lives.

Finally, the fun ended when Mrs. Weasley began shepherding them all to bed. Harry lay in his bed thinking of the train ride, and what might happen to Sirius while he were away. He could understand his godfather's attitude better than anyone. He himself was forced every summer to live with the Dursleys. Harry hoped that Sirius would be able to get out of the house, if even for a little while.

Then, there was the thought of Daphne. Would he finally be able to speak with her? Another thought occurred to him. He still didn't know for a fact it was Daphne writing to him. What if he'd guess wrong? What if he'd insulted who ever was writing him? Unsure of what he might do, Harry had little choice but to simply wait and see what happened tomorrow.