A/N I'm really sorry that it took so long for this chapter to get out. I've had a ton of makeup work to finish, 2 makeup tests that I took today, and a final I've been studying for that's on Thursday. Then I've been practicing for my church solo and speaking with book publishers about publishing my real story. It's still a work in progress but I hope to have it published within a year and I'll make certain to post the name on here for you all to go check it out. Thank you for your patience though, and now without further ado, I give thee…

Chapter 7: Home At Last

The bright green light streaked towards Harry and Estella yet he was unable to move, immobilized by the shock of being attacked by someone Estella clearly knew. "NO, STOP! HARRY!" Estella's voice abruptly broke Harry's trance and he leapt into action, activating his Gift of speed with seconds to spare. Harry pushed his arms outwards and knocked Helen and Estella out of the line of fire. Despite his decreased perception of time, Harry still couldn't move out of the crossfire and instead leaned back until his back was nearly parallel to the ground, allowing the curse to pass harmlessly above him. A second red spell followed the first and Harry would have easily avoided it had it not split into multiple smaller pieces that spread in a shotgun-like spread. Flipping into the air, Harry spun and wove between the slender red streaks, though one spell still managed to slice through his left forearm like a knife, leaving a deep cut that began to bleed profusely. Ignoring the pain, Harry began sprinting towards the man at his incredible speeds, weaving from side to side to create illusions and causing the man to back into the wall as he attempted to attack the correct form. Suddenly, Harry appeared in front of him striking out with his right palm and slamming it into the man's ribcage, feeling it cave in as the man as lifted from the ground. Slamming into the wall, the man slid to ground with his head slumped forward, unconscious.

Oh Merlin, please don't be dead, please don't be dead. Despite the man's actions, Harry was terrified that he might have killed him as he had meant only to disable him in self defense.

Footsteps rushed up behind him and he whirled around, wary of another attacker, yet it was Estella running up to the man. Placing her head on his chest, she proceeded to check for a pulse. The worried look she wore showed that she was concerned for the man for personal reasons, as though she knew him. That was when Harry remembered that he'd seen those eyes in Estella's house and backed away apprehensively. Turning to look at Helen he saw that she gazed upon the scene with sadness and Harry wondered if she knew the man as well.

Looking back, Harry saw Estella sigh in relief and look up at Harry with an unexpected rage. The electric blue of her eyes flashed as she stalked towards Harry, looking as though she meant to strangle him.

"What the HELL, were you thinking!" She shrieked at him furiously. "You could have killed him!"

Harry stared back in incredulity, anger rising in him as he shook with the remnants of the adrenaline still in his body. "I could have killed HIM! He attacked us and I've seen that spell before in my… my nightmares about how my parents died. It's the Avada Kedavra curse."

Helen stepped in suddenly, stepping in between the two as she spoke. "Actually Harry, although the two curses look very similar, the curse David used was a darker shade than the Avada Kedavra curse. It's actually an immobilizing spell as the curse changes to vines upon impact and wrap around the target."

At this, Harry flushed embarrassedly, although he still couldn't understand Estella's anger and then a thought came to him. "Wait a minute… How did you know his name was David?" He asked Helen, not suspiciously but confused about this sudden turn in events.

Estella answered instead of Helen, answering calmly, "Because he's my brother."

The group took David's still unconscious form back to Estella's home and went inside. The home was fairly nice, with a polished wooden staircase in the entrance flanked by curving hallways that led to various parts of the home. Setting David on a couch, Helen drew her wand and muttered, "Alleviate." David stirred slowly and then leapt to his feet, hand reaching for his pocket to draw his wand which Harry had already confiscated. Slowly, David stopped looking about in panic as he realized where he was and locked his eyes on Estella and Helen.

"How do you feel?" Estella asked concernedly, cautiously reaching forward to check for damage as if approaching a wild animal. David merely stared at her without answering and allowed her to check for any injuries. Thankfully, Helen had already healed his ribs as the break had been clean and fairly easy to merge back into place.

When Estella completed her checkup of him, David turned to survey the room and finally saw Harry standing in the corner watching him warily. David's eyes flashed and once again he reached towards his pocket instinctively, forgetting again that his wand was no longer in his possession. Harry's hand twitched towards his own wand, preparing to defend himself, but David seemed to realize he was at a disadvantage yet he remained tense and kept his eyes on Harry.

"David, it's ok," Helen said suddenly, attempting to break the ice. "Harry's a friend; he's the one we told you about that Estella's helping with his training. He's not you enemy." Helen spoke in a soothing voice as though calming a wild animal.

David waited for a moment before responding gravely, "Stay away from my sister boy, and I will spare your life." His voice was hoarse and raspy, as though his throat was parched and he had neglected to quench his thirst.

Harry's eyes narrowed at this and he rose to his full height and advanced slowly on David. "You try to kill me and almost hurt Estella as well and you have the nerveto tell me to stay away? Oh no, let me explain how this is going to work. You're going to stay the hell away from me and you're going to keep your nose out of your business or you'll be the one whose life needs sparing. Do I make myself clear?" By now Harry's aura was beginning to seep from his pores, casting him into a golden glow as he glowered down at David. Displaying extraordinary poise, David stood his ground in the face of Harry's anger, though this only seemed to anger Harry further.

"You think you're special because you defeated Voldemort, but your luck won't last forever. Someone's going to put you in check someday soon and I hope I'm there to see it." David sneered at Harry and left without another word, his cloak billowing behind him. The air seemed to crackle in suspense but Harry's aura died down slowly and he sat down heavily.

Estella was looking after David in shock, opening her mouth as if to call after him but deciding better of it and instead spoke to Harry. "I-I've never seen him act that way. He's normally so peaceful. And I'm really sorry about what I said Harry, it's just… He's the only family I have and I couldn't bear it if I lost him too." Estella looked on the verge of tears and Harry came over to comfort her, wrapping her in his arms and allowing her to put her head in his chest as she cried softly.

As she collected herself, Harry wiped her tears from her cheek and kissed her, letting her know he had already forgiven her. When they parted, Helen decided that everyone had had enough excitement for the day and they bid Estella goodnight. "This was still the greatest birthday of my life," Harry whispered to her as he hugged her goodbye. "Even your brother couldn't change that."

Helen dropped him off at home with a parting smile and he headed to his room with his presents, dropping them to the side as he plopped down. Lying back on, Harry smiled to himself. "Only on my birthday," he said to himself before closing his eyes and slipping into sleep.

The week went by smoothly, although Harry felt it was over too soon. On Wednesday he'd gone with Estella to Diagon Alley to purchase his schoolbooks and met up with Ron, Hermione and Ginny on the way. Sirius and Big Rob had decided to give Harry his last day off and they'd all embarrassed themselves when they drank too much butterbeer and began blasting music. Big Rob had begun dancing on a table while Harry and Estella cheered him on. The dance didn't last long, however, as the table collapsed under Big Rob's tremendous weight. Standing up looking sheepish, his faced turned bright red as Harry and Estella collapsed with laughter.

When Big Rob and Estella began square dancing to some corny Country music, Harry sat back and admired Estella's beauty. Her smile seemed to glow as she threw her head back and laughed pleasantly. Smiling to himself, Harry thought he couldn't believe how much his luck had changed. Maybe things won't turn out so badly for me after all, he thought to himself.

Familiar footsteps sounded behind him as Sirius approached. It was funny how much Sirius continued to move as though he were still in his canine form, gracefully primal. "You've really got something special in her kid," Sirius said as he took a seat next to Harry. "You know, your father would be so proud of you. To see how great a young man you've become even with your hard childhood is truly something. You remind me of myself and while I'm not proud of everything I've done I have no doubts that you'll exceed everything your parents and I accomplished. You're like a son to me and while I know I'll never replace your true father, I hope that I can be half the man he was."

Tears welled up in Harry's eyes and he turned to find Sirius wiping his eyes as well. They looked at one another for a moment in silent understanding, words unable to express the torment of love the two felt for one another. Estella suddenly rushed over with Helen and the two grabbed Harry and Sirius and they danced together, enjoying one another's company.

The day was filled with mirth and entertainment but as the day came to the close Harry was reluctant to leave. A new chapter of his life began in this studio and for the first time he was reluctant to head back to Hogwarts. Seeing his distressed expression, Helen gave him a reassuring smile and promised he could come back and stay with her on his breaks. With this news Harry managed to force himself into the car back home with a final glance back. Seeing Estella sitting in the car smiling back at him was all the motivation he needed to make his mind up and he hopped in next to her, pulling her close and letting her rest on his shoulder.

The following morning, Harry was found rushing around packing his bag frantically. When Estella rang the doorbell he rushed past and flung the door open without breaking stride as he raced to find Hedwig's cage. Estella looked at him smugly for a moment before reaching behind the door and bringing his cage to view. Raising his hands in exasperation with himself he grabbed it and gave her a quick kiss before hastening up the stairs to bundle the remainder of his belongings into his bag.

The Dursley's stood crowded at a doorway at the top of the stairs looking at him in disgust but they managed to hold their tongues to Harry's surprise. He'd told them he was having someone else take him to the station and the look in their eyes clearly stated, good riddance. In truth, Helen was parked around the corner and when Harry finally managed to stuff his remaining clothes and books into his bags without crushing his wand he dragged his bag outside and he and Estella met Helen at the car.

Taking in Harry's disheveled hair and his panted breathing, Helen laughed aloud and shook her head. "You didn't pack last night like I told you did you?" Harry blushed and Helen laughed again before pulling off towards the station.

The train station was busy as customary and Harry guided Estella to Platform 9 ¾. He'd given Estella some of the details the previous day but she still looked as apprehensive as he had the first time he'd been told to walk into the wall. "Don't worry baby, I'm right here with you. Here," he said as he held out his hand. "I'll help you through." Grabbing his hand firmly, they rushed towards the wall and she squealed slightly right before impact and closed her eyes, opening them to find herself standing on the bustling station of Platform 9 ¾ with an amused Harry smiling down at her.

Moving to the side, they allowed Helen to enter behind them so they could say goodbye before boarding the train. Entering the platform, Helen looked up at the train and then sadly back down at Harry and Estella. A tear rolled down her cheek as she enveloped them in both in a bear hug. "I don't know what I'll do without you two," she said with a slight smile as she pulled back to admire them.

"Oh don't cry Aunt Helen," Harry said worriedly. "You still have Sirius to keep you company, and you can invite Big Rob over anytime you want a ridiculous weight lifted or a table broken." Helen smiled at that and wrapped Harry back in a final parting hug.

"You take care of him now," she said to Estella. "He may think he's tough but, I've seen him cry as a baby so trust me, I know, it's just a front." Harry blushed at this and Estella looked back up at Helen determinedly.

"Oh don't worry, I'll keep good care of him. I won't let him out of my sight." Helen seemed to sigh in relief, knowing Estella would watch out for Harry in her stead.

"Well go on you two," Helen said suddenly, wiping her face and pushing the two towards the train with a gentle shove. "I can't have you getting into trouble already. I don't want to even think about what would happen if you tried that flying car stunt again with Estella next to you Harry." The last bit she said with a chuckle as Harry blushed again while Estella looked on in confusion.

"Goodbye, Aunt Helen," Harry said as he backed towards the train, "I'll you when we get there." And with that he and Estella boarded the train and headed down the slim aisle. Locating Ron, Ginny, and Hermione swiftly in a compartment they'd managed to commandeer to themselves, they stored their bags and prepared for the trip to Hogwarts.

The girls sat on one side of the compartment whispering and giggling amongst one another, as was only natural, while Harry and Ron traded stories about the goings on of their respective summers. Not long before they arrived at Hogwarts and as soon as the group settled into a peaceful silence, yelling was heard from outside their compartment and Harry and Ron went to check out the disturbance.

Draco Malfoy and his goons were standing in the hallway sneering at Neville Longbottom whom was pinned against a wall by Crabbe and Harry groaned inwardly. How does he always manage to get himself into trouble? "What was that Longbottom?" Draco was saying. "You wanted to give me your cart money? Well if you insist…" Reaching towards Neville's pocket, he jumped slightly when Ron rushed out.

"Drop him Malfoy!" Ron said while pushing Crabbe's hand away. "Go grease up someone else's corner, or better yet, find your own corner and go screw yourself."

Draco regained his usual sneer swiftly as he composed himself. "Well if it isn't 'Too Poor to Breathe My Air' Weasley. I heard your disgrace of a father is having a bit of trouble keeping his job after Rita Skeeter reported his little screw up with the press at the World Cup. Though I don't suppose you can expect someone of his… class to know any better I suppose." Ron lunged at Malfoy but Harry grabbed his collar and pulled him back before Crabbe and Goyle could get hold of him. Malfoy looked slightly disappointed not to see Ron get pummeled but simply turned his attention to Harry. "So Potter, another summer locked away with those muggles eh? You should've stayed with them where you belong. Though I hear we're getting some fresh meat from your area. My father hears about all new transfers in advance because of his position on the board. What's her name, Isabella? I think it's about time for me to find a new toy to play with, maybe I-"

Draco never finished his sentence as Harry activated his Gift and charged him, smashing his fist into Draco's jaw and sending him flying before Draco even realized he'd moved. Crabbe and Goyle blinked in confusion as they tried to process what had just happened, turning to look at Draco groaning on the floor and then back at Harry. Not giving them chance to respond, Harry rammed their heads together and let them fall to the floor. Grabbing Malfoy by the collar, he dragged him to his feet and slammed his back into a compartment, causing people to come outside to see what the commotion was about. Onlookers stared in awe as they took in the scene, seeing Crabbe and Goyle lying unconscious on the ground and Harry holding Draco up against the compartment door as Ron looked on in wonder.

"Her name is Estella, Draco, and if you ever disrespect her or my friends again next time you won't be let off so easily. Stay away from her and I won't have to hurt you because honestly, you're not worth my time." Tossing Draco aside onto Crabbe and Goyle like a sack of potatoes, Harry walked over to the open compartment where Estella was shaking her head and him.

"Was all that really necessary?" she asked him when he approached. "I mean couldn't you have given him a warning or something at least." Her voice was stern yet the smile on her face showed that she was actually pleased at his efforts. Kissing her in reply, Harry dragged the still gaping Ron back into the compartment.

Sitting down next to Estella, he allowed her to snuggle into him, leaving Ron still standing in shock at the doorway. "H-how the bloody hell did you just do that?" Ron exclaimed suddenly. "I mean you were like, whoosh, and then it was all, bam, bam, POW! And then you just picked him up and… I mean… whoa." The compartment burst into laughter as Ron finished his attempted description of the events in the aisle and he joined in when he realized how ridiculous he'd sounded.

Regaining his composure, Harry replied to Ron, amusement still lining his voice. "It's a… long story. I'll tell you all about it at the feast but for now I think we should get dressed." He said this while pointing out the window and everyone turned to see the magnificent view. Estella gasped gleefully and pressed her face to the glass as she peered outside. Hogwarts loomed magnificently in the distance, light twinkling on the windows as brightly as the eyes of a certain headmaster.

I'm home, Harry thought to himself contentedly, wrapping his arms around Estella and enjoying the view with her, smiling at the thought of the year to come.

I'm home…

A/N Well! Hope you enjoyed this latest installment of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire My Version. Please review and give me all the lovely feedback I know you've been dying to tell me. Also... We just reached 4,000 hits! I'm glad everyone's seemed to take such a liking to this story and I hope I don't disappoint. Once again, suggestions are welcome and will each be considered with an open mind.