Harry's heart dropped at the sight of Dumbledore calmly sipping his tea. He knew the only reason that Dumbledore was there was to drag him back to his own personal hell.
"Professor what brings you to my home?" Luna asked with a hint of annoyance in her voice. Obviously she too knew why he was here.
Dumbledore stood and smiled at the students, "I just came to discuss something with Harry that's all. I happened to intercept his letter by pure happenstance this morning, and figured since I was in the area anyways I would come here myself."
Even Harry was impressed with the speech. But he sincerely doubted that Dumbledore just 'happened to be in the area' It was far too nice and neat. Also, why did he just stroll into Luna's house and help himself to a cup of tea?
Luna glanced at Harry in question. She didn't know about the letter but now that cat was out of the bag.
"What would you like to discuss with me Professor?" Harry asked knowing full well the answer.
Dumbledore's mustache twitched ever so slightly, "I think it would be best if we discussed this matter in private. If you wouldn't mind Miss Lovegood would you kindly wait outside?"
Of course Harry scoffed inwardly
Thankfully however Luna would have none of it. She slipped her hand into Harry's and stood steadfast, "I will not wait outside. This is my house and whatever you say to Harry you can say to me. With all due respect professor how would you feel if I came into your house without your knowledge, helped myself to some tea and then asked you to leave?"
whoa where did that came from? For the second time today Harry was seriously impressed.
Dumbledore however didn't miss a beat, "Of course, you are correct Miss Lovegood. Forgive me. I merely was trying to see if Harry had reconsidered his decision to leave his relatives."
"No I haven't. As long as Mr. Lovegood says that I can stay then I'll stay. I understand you're concerned for my safety but I'm fine here really." Harry finished rather forcefully.
Another twitch and then Dumbledore went for the coup de grace, "Harry please reconsider. This isn't just about you anymore. Luna isn't safe with you, any amount of Dark wizards could show up and attack you and she could be an unfortunate victim." Dumbledore stated this delicately but it had the desired effect.
The words stung and they stung badly.As much as Harry hated to admit it but Dumbledore was right, just today Draco had shown up after him ready to attack. Draco had connections and probably had people watching him. Who's to say Voldermort wasn't next?
I can't believe I never realized it before... Just by being with me she's in danger. The thought sickened him. If life wasn't cruel enough he now had to feel guilty about being with Luna.
Bringing him back to reality was Luna squeezing his hand firmly, "Harry would protect me. Put some wards up around my house if you're so worried, I know you have to know powerful protection wards. But Harry isn't going anywhere unless he wants to." She gazed coldly at Dumbledore, daring him to object.
Make that three times today.
Harry slowly regained his resolve. "I have to stay to protect her. Everyone knows we're dating it's not a secret. Who's to say Voldermort won't come after her just because she's my girlfriend? I can't in good conscience just leave knowing the risks."
Dumbledore was stuck and he knew it. There would be no budging the young couple who stood together with such fire in their eyes, " I see your point. While I don't agree with you staying I'll allow it on two conditions."
"Go on." Harry stated
"Near the end of summer I have a matter to attend to and I'd like you to accompany me Harry. Mind you it's nothing dangerous simply a meeting of an old colleague of mine." Dumbledore said with a smile
Harry knew it was more than just a meeting but he said nothing, "Ok, I can do that. What's the next condition?"
"I just wish to speak to Luna alone for a moment. Afterwards I'll add some wards to the house and be on my way I assure you." He smiled brightly at the pair
Luna nodded plainly and motioned for Dumbledore to follow her up the stairs to presumably her room. Harry flopped down on the couch overwhelmed by the turn of events. But he didn't have time to mope around because at that moment Mr. Lovegood returned home from work.
"Hey there Harry! Where's my Luna?"
"She's upstairs with Professor Dumbledore. He stopped by for a chat" Harry explained
Xeno grasped his chest in shock. "Albus Dumbledore in my house!? What a day!"
"Busy day at work?" Harry inquired hopeful to change the subject from the Headmaster.
"Oh indeed. In France last night there were two sightings of a Snorkak. Quite exciting I must say! It's only a matter of time before the Wizarding community will have no choice but to admit they exist." Xeno was practically glowing with excitement at the prospect.
Harry had to admit it was refreshing to see someone who loved their job so much however before they could finish their conversation Dumbledore and Luna came back down the stairs. Xeno ran over and grasped his hand firmly in a vigorous handshake.
"Sir, it's a pleasure to have you in my humble abode. If there's anything I can help you with please let me know." Harry laughed inwardly watching Xeno and Dumbledore. If he shook his hand any faster he would tear Dumbledore's hand off.
Prying his hand from the starstruck homeowner Dumbledore nodded. "Ah, Xenophilius actually there is something you can help me with. Would you be so kind as to tell me what types of protection wards you have on your house?"
Xeno was only too happy to oblige, "Oh only the very best I'll have you know. I've got state of the art Nargle and Wrackspurt wards and even a very powerful Heliopath ward I acquired last summer." He leaned in for dramatic effect on the last one.
Dumbledore took it all in stride nodding enthusiastically, "I applaud you on your fine work Xenophilius, though if you wouldn't mind I'd like to add some more of my own more practical wards. "
"It would be an honor sir. Let me help you." With that Xeno grasped Dumbledores hand and dragged him out the door.
Now that they were alone Harry saw that Luna had a small smile upon her face. "What are you smiling for? What did Dumbledore talk to you about?"
"I'd rather not say. Don't worry it wasn't anything bad it's just I'm not ready to share it with you quite yet." Harry was confused but decided not to push it. Luna must have had a good reason for not wanting to tell him.
"Ok." was all he could think of saying. She must have sensed that he was a little let down because she kissed him softly.
"Don't worry sweetie. It's not like I made some secret pact with Dumbledore about you." Harry had to laugh at that. He wouldn't admit it but deep down for a moment he did in fact think that's what happened. He cast such thoughts aside. Luna would never betray him for that he was certain.
Harry laughed, "I'm just glad you're not as impressed with Dumbledore as your dad is."
"There's just something about him that makes me apprehensive. I can't believe he tried to guilt you into leaving here! He's awfully manipulative it seems." Luna sighed heavily sitting down on the couch.
Harry didn't know what to think. While he certainly had great respect for Dumbledore he had to admit that Luna was right. He sat beside Luna on the couch and grabbed their painting from the table. He didn't know what it was but something about the simple painting he loved.
"What do you two have there?" Xeno inquired after coming back inside.
"Today we went into the village and had an artist paint our picture. What do you think?" Luna held it out for his inspection.
"It's quite lovely. Would you like me to enchant it so it moves?" He asked them
"No" They both said simultaneously
"Ok well how about I make a copy so you both can have one?"
"That sounds great." Harry was glad for the offer he really did want a copy of his own.
Xeno grinned broadly and performed a simple charm then voila; two identical paintings.
"Now! On to Dinner. Hope you two are hungry." He winked at the pair and practically dashed into the kitchen.
Harry realized he hadn't done the dishes after he had cooked breakfast and cursed himself.
"Sorry Xeno. I made breakfast this morning I forgot to clean up. I'll do that now." He walked to the kitchen to clean but Xeno stopped him.
"You made breakfast without magic?" He asked in disbelief
"Erm.. yeah. I've had to cook for my relatives for years."
"It was delicious too Daddy." Luna interjected
"I'm impressed Harry. Muggles have it so rough but I'm not surprised you'd have mastered cooking. One night if you wouldn't mind I'd love to have a meal prepared by you." Xeno flicked his wand a few times and the dishes and skillet were as clean as can be.
I wish I would have known magic all those years at the Dursleys. I've spent hours scrubbing pots and pans. I simply can't wait until I'm 17.
"Of course, it would be my pleasure." Harry smiled
Harry watched as Xeno prepared the meal by magical means. It was mostly the same as the Muggle way except magic did all the stirring, beating, and flipping. He had seen this done before by Mrs. Weasley in the burrow but it still amazed him to some degree.
During dinner the three sat at the table and joked and told stories. Harry continued to like Mr. Lovegood more and more noting the mans caring and fun nature. He also shared much to Luna's chagrin many stories of Luna as a young girl. Harry reveled in it all and felt like he truly belonged there. More so than he had ever felt anywhere else besides Hogwarts of course.
Several hours later after everything was put away from Dinner the subject of the interview came up.
"Xeno how about I try to get some other DA members in on the interview? I noticed the Weasleys live close while I was out today." Harry stated
"Quite right you are Harry. Me and Arthur go way back that old dog! Always trying to fix up Muggle trinkets. As for your idea I think that's a fabulous idea. The more the merrier."
"We might be able to get Hermione and Neville to come to right Harry?" Luna asked
"I don't see why not, I'd like to see them anyways so it can't hurt to ask."
"Great! It's settled then. You two can go to The Burrow tomorrow and visit your friends. Now If you'll excuse me I've got some letters to send off tonight regarding the Snorkak sighting in France."
After Luna and Harry said goodnight to Xeno they made their way upstairs to Luna's room. Harry couldn't stop thinking about what Dumbledore had said it was gnawing at him and he knew he'd have to address it sooner rather than later.
"Luna, I think we should talk." Harry began
"I already know what you're going to say Harry."
"You do..? Harry questioned
"Yes, you're going to ask if I regret being your girlfriend because of what Dumbledore said today." Again she wasn't questioning she knew the answer already.
"Can you read my mind or something?" Harry laughed
"No, I just knew that bothered you when he said it. I feel very safe with you Harry, and I would never regret being you with you I promise." He leaned in close and cupped her cheek gently with his palm. He peered into her captivating eyes so focused and alive. That moment he knew he was in love with Luna.
He kissed her, willing all of his emotions into the act, It was sensual and gentle. He got lost in the kiss and only found his way back when they pull apart.
"That was something." Luna muttered.
"Luna..." Harry paused
"Yes?" she breathed
Harry tried to tell her he loved her but he coudn't find the courage and instead muttered, "I..uh You're amazing."
She smiled and wrapped him in a close embrace but not before Harry noticed the glimmer or something in her eyes. Was it disappointment? He thought
When he went opened his trunk he saw a plain piece of only had three words and he knew who had left it.
Ponder the prophecy
He was thankful that Luna was already in the bathroom he didn't want her seeing this. Harry scoffed at the sight of it. He didn't even want to think of that prophecy and now Dumbledore wanted him to analyze it.
After both Luna and Harry were ready, they both climbed in bed together. He marveled at how well she molded to his body. She seemed to just fit perfectly beside him. He slid his arm around her waist and pulled her even closer. The feeling was immediate both calming and warming.
How did I ever sleep alone? he thought to himself
"Tomorrow will be fun, we'll get to see our friends." She said
"Yeah, I'm looking forward to it. Goodnight beautiful." he kissed her forehead.
"Goodnight sweetie." she nestled into a comfortable position and closed her eyes. Harry looked at his angel in front of him knowing he loved her with all his heart. This was no crush, he'd experienced those before. This was real and permanent.
God help the bastard that tries to hurt her.
Authors Note: Thanks again to all my wonderful subscribers and reviewers. My toothache has finally subsided allowing me to pump out this new chapter for you all. I promise the reunion will happen next chapter.
