A/N:I am pleased and thankful that so many enjoyed how I wrote Dumbledore in the last chapter.

I want to extend my gratitude to all those who have been following this story. The audience that this story has found is humbling. I appreciate every last alert, favorite, and review this story has gotten. It also serves as good motivation for me to schedule time to write.


A Chance Encounter

By Spectre4hire

Chapter Eleven: Greengrass Manor

One of the first things Harry accomplished at Greengrass manor the next morning was sending out a flurry of messages to his friends. With the help of Hector- the Greengrass owl and Hedwig, he had successfully written back to all of his friends.

He didn't put many details of why he didn't reply to their messages. He simply wrote that he would explain it to them when he got to see them. He hoped that it wouldn't be too long.

The day at Greengrass Manor went better then Harry could have hoped for. Though he spent very little time at the actual Manor. Roxanne had not been impressed with Harry's clothes and immediately decided that for a new life, a new wardrobe would be needed.

Harry was embarrassed and shy about the hand-me-downs that once belonged to his cousin. He tried to deny any need for new ones. He didn't want to push his luck with the Greengrass family, not wanting to look ungrateful for all they had done for him already. He tried to decline, but the Greengrass matriarch would not listen. She even dragged an equally reluctant Remus to come to, deciding that he could use with a few new clothes as well.

So the two men spent hours shopping with three very enthusiastic Greengrass women.

Harry was given an entire new wardrobe of shirts, slacks, jeans, underwear, socks and shoes. Remus had gotten two new suits as well as a handful of slacks and shirts. After an exhausted day of trying on who knows how many clothes for the three Greengrass women, Astoria, Daphne, and Roxanne. They seemed more entertained by helping them shop, then actually needing to get themselves anything. If Harry didn't know better, they seemed to take shopping as some sort of sport or entertainment.

When Roxanne finally declared an end to the shopping spectacle. She surprised the two men by paying for it all.

Both men tried to protest, but Roxanne wouldn't listen. Claiming that it was her gift to them and that they should be thankful or she would resume their shopping.

That had silenced Remus and Harry at once.

Harry was overcome by the sense of generosity that the Greengrass matriarch was showing him. She not only took him shopping, she bought it all for him. It was a new experience for Harry Potter. Her encouraging words and her motherly nature were a soothing comfort for a young man who was trying to come to grips to what his relatives had gotten away with these last eleven years.

It was still uncomfortable and albeit awkward for him to accept these gifts without any sense of repayment.

The concept was sadly an oddity for Harry Potter.

It was with these thoughts that he came down to the Greengrass dining room. He was the last to join as he took his customary seat next to Remus and across from Daphne. Astoria, Daphne's younger sister sat across from Remus while Roxanne and Cyrus sat at the ends of the table.

"Sorry, I'm late," Harry said sheepishly as he took his seat. He had been putting a way his new wardrobe in his various dressers. He was wearing one his new slacks and shirts. He was surprised by just how comfortable he felt in clothes that actually fit him.

All thoughts of his clothes and room disappeared, however when he looked down at his plate. His mouth instantly watered at the display of food presented in front of him.

Roast chicken, biscuits, salad, and an array of other sides only caused Harry's stomach to grumble.

"It's not a problem dear," Roxanne smoothly replied.

Harry looked up to see that she was smiling at him. No hint of annoyance or anger in either expression or tone for his tardiness. It was an act that at the Dursleys, he would have been punished by chores or a skipped meal.

He forced any thoughts or images of his relatives out of his mind. He didn't have to think about them ever again. Thanks to the Headmaster, the Greengrass family, Remus and others. He was free from them for once and for all.

"Yes, I heard you had quite the day."

"Your wife is very enthusiastic about shopping," remarked Remus delicately.

Cyrus laughed. "That's putting it mildly."

"What was that husband?" Roxanne called sweetly from across the table. Her brown eyes fixed on him, almost daring him to follow up his remark with another.

"Nothing dear," Cyrus said, no longer laughing. He straightened up under his wife's intimidating gaze. He turned his attention to cutting up the chicken on his plate.

Astoria and Daphne traded smiles before giggling into their hands.

Harry too couldn't help but smile and he could see Remus had a small one too.

Roxanne ruefully shook her head, but she too was smiling.

"Well if I'm done being humiliated." He sent a wink at his wife, before looking at the others. "Let's eat."

The first few minutes, the only noise around the table was the cutting of silverware as the Greengrass family plus Remus and Harry enjoyed the delicious meal prepared by the family house-elf-Blinky.

"So Harry," Cyrus said, looking up from his own plate. "I was told about your successful shopping outing."

Harry nodded, glancing over at Roxanne who was smiling at him. "It was, I'm really thankful, if there is any-"

Cyrus raised his hand to cut off Harry. "The only thing you can do is enjoy them Harry."

Harry nodded again, not sure how to respond to such kindness or generosity. "I will sir."

"Harry?"

"I mean Cyrus," it was a habit that was hard for him to break.

"Good, now that that's settled. We should discuss what to do with your old clothes," The Greengrass Patriarch paused to turn to the others around the table. "Any suggestions?"

"Burn them," Astoria suggested.

"We should make the Dursleys wear them, and then burn them," added Daphne darkly.

"Oh dear," Cyrus said with feigned worry. "I had no idea, that we were raising two fire enthusiasts."

This caused both Astoria and Daphne to giggle at their father's antics.

"I'm in agreement with our intelligent daughters."

"Ashes to ashes," Remus put in.

"Harry?"

Harry realized every eye at the table was on him after Cyrus called his name. He instinctively squirmed in his seat. He was still uncomfortable with both the attention and the reminder of his relatives.

Remus must have sensed his discomfort as he put his hand on Harry's shoulder and gave a reassuring squeeze.

Harry bowed his head. "I'm sorry."

He felt another pair of hands on him, guiding his head up. His green eyes fell on Roxanne's brown ones. Her eyes shimmered with concern, like a mother would to her own child.

"There is nothing to be sorry for," she said soothingly. "You understand? You did nothing wrong. Nothing."

Harry didn't speak. He found his throat dry and constricted. He was not use to contact, and kind words. He was use to blame and guilt. Not innocence and freedom.

He could only wonder was this how his mother would have tried to calm him down?

He managed a weak smile. One she returned, her manicured fingers then gently patted his cheek before returning to take her own cutlery.

"I would like to burn them," Harry said, finding strength in the people around him. These were the people who cared for him. These were the people who wanted what was best for him.

He looked around to see the smiling faces of the Greengrass sisters.

Astoria was beaming, nearly bouncing on the edge of her seat.

Daphne's blue eyes were examining him closely. A look of worry was evident in her features, but it didn't last. It was replaced with a pleased look from his decision.

Cyrus gave him an encouraging smile and a nod.

Remus gave his shoulder another squeeze before patting him on the back.

"Then it's settled," Cyrus proclaimed. "I have another announcement to make." He turned to Roxanne who nodded.

"Harry this concerns your future."

Harry immediately turned to the Greengrass Patriarch trying to decipher any hidden meaning in his expression. Trying to uncover what was to happen to him, what was his future?

It was fruitless. The man's expression was stoic as his blue eyes, which Daphne had inherited, were on him, making him unreadable.

"As of this morning, you are a ward of the Greengrass family."

Astoria squealed in delight, clapping her hands together.

Daphne was beaming as her head turned from father to mother for confirmation at the news. It came from Roxanne who smiled at her eldest daughter.

"A ward?" repeated a confused Harry, unsure of what the term actually meant.

"We are your Guardians now Harry," Roxanne explained. "That is if you are willing to have us?"

Harry couldn't believe his ears. He knew the signs in the last two days were pointing in this direction. But that was just hope, nothing was certain. To actually have them as his Guardians, it seemed too surreal. He was sure that he was dreaming and any minute he would wake up back with the Dursleys, back to his prison cell.

He pinched himself to be sure.

The small amount pain was worth the truth. He didn't wake up!

This was real! This was really happening to him!

He would never have to go back to the Dursleys! He could be with people who loved his parents, who wanted him to be in their lives.

"Harry?"

He looked up to see the uncertainty etched in Roxanne's elegant features. He realized he had been silent all this time. "I would love to."

Roxanne immediately smiled. She gracefully pushed herself out of her chair to approach him. She tentatively put out her arms and Harry allowed her to hug him. He was surprised by how warm she was. He could smell her flowery perfume. Her hair tickled under his nose.

He hesitantly put his hands around her. He had never hugged a woman before. He couldn't help but feel comfort in her embrace. Dare he say loved? She had a certain firmness that reassured him about her genuine care and concern for his well-being. He was sure this was what it would be liked to be hugged by one's own mother.

She gently pulled away, her brown eyes misting over. "We are happy to have you, Harry."

"Thank you for everything," he said softly. It was the only words he could muster. They sounded weak. They sounded insufficient to express just how grateful he was to this family.

She only smiled, hugging him once more. When she pulled away a second time, her manicured fingers gently tapped him under the chin. She then went back to her seat.

Harry hoped he hadn't looked too foolish but looking up at the others, he knew he hadn't. Astoria was bouncing on the edge of her seat. The nine-year-old looked as if Christmas had come early with the announcement. The sense of welcome that the youngest Greengrass sister showed him was unexpected, but comforting.

"I don't know if I can ever pay you ba-" Harry began finding his eyes back on the Greengrass patriarch.

"No, Harry." Cyrus cut in gently. "It is an honor to welcome you into our family. We are only sad that it took this long." He paused turning to his wife, a few tears trickled down her cheeks.

"James and Lily were dear to our hearts, Harry. To have you with us is more a gift then any responsibility," Cyrus finished.

Harry could tell in their voices and expressions that they truly did love his parents. To be around people who loved his own parents, but not because of blood but by choice, it was a touching realization for Harry. Especially after the years at the Dursleys he had to endure. They savaged their reputation, tarnished their legacy. He now knew the truth. His parents were loved by many, including his new family-the Greengrasses.

Harry looked up to see Remus was watching him closely. His father's good friend had yet to speak after the announcement had been given. "Moony?"

"I'm happy for you Harry," he replied, patting him on the back. "No one deserves it more."

"What about you?"

"Cyrus and Roxanne have been more then hospitable to me in these last few months," Remus paused, to send a thankful nod to the Greengrass Patriarch. "They have even offered me permanent residence if I would like."

"Really?"

Remus smiled, "really."

"Remus is a part of our family," Roxanne commented sincerely from the end of the table.

"What did you say?"

He chuckled at Harry's eagerness, but Cyrus answered Harry's enthusiastic question.

"He is yet to give us an answer."

Harry's eyes went back to Remus, almost pleading with him to accept.

"I suppose I don't have a choice now, do I?" asked Remus with mirth. "Someone has to teach you how to handle magical transportation."

Astoria and Daphne both giggled at the inside joke. Cyrus laughed and nodded in agreement while a smiling Roxanne only shook her head before speaking. "We are happy to have you too, Remus."

Remus nodded his thanks to the Greengrass Matriarch. He seemed to be in a similar situation with Harry unsure how to properly voice his thanks at such an offer. This led Harry to quietly wonder had Remus shared similar hardships to his own?

"Speaking of teaching," Cyrus began, folding his hands on the table while his blue eyes rested on Harry. "We have a lot to teach you."

"Teach me?" Harry repeated, confused by the concept. Wasn't that why he was going to Hogwarts?

"Yes, Harry it is up to your Guardians to instruct you on how our world works," answered Cyrus. "I will teach you the politics and economy of our world."

"I will teach you history, customs and our society," finished Roxanne.

Harry couldn't help, but now be excited about the prospect of learning more about the world that he suddenly found himself thrown into. "That's great. I can't wait."

"Enthusiasm to learning? You would have made a great Ravenclaw, Harry," remarked a smiling Roxanne.

Harry returned her smile, pleased and touched by the compliment. "I was wondering something." Harry began slowly, not sure how to politely ask the question that came to his mind.

"Yes, Harry?" asked Roxanne.

"Since you are my Guardians does that mean I'm a Greengrass?" He hoped he didn't sound insulted by the idea, or the prospect.

"No, Harry. You are a still Potter. We are simply your Guardians, " answered Cyrus kindly, looking and sounding undisturbed by the question.

"Yes, Harry which means you can still marry Daphne," Roxanne teased.

"Mum!" protested a blushing Daphne.

Harry too could feel his cheeks heating up, as he fixed his attention on his plate. He could hear laughter from the adults and giggling from Astoria.

"Oh sorry dear," the Greengrass Matriarch said with a smile, a mirthful glint in her own brown eyes.

"Now, now Roxy," Cyrus playfully chided his wife, but his own blue eyes shimmered with amusement. "Now Harry, your birthday just came up."

"Sir?" asked Harry, caught off guard by the sudden change of topic as well as the Greengrass Patriarch's knowledge.

"You didn't think we would forget?" asked Roxanne, watching him closely.

"No, I just didn't think you would know," answered Harry honestly.

"Not know your birthday? That's impossible," Remus remarked, tousling Harry's messy black hair.

"Quite, we were thinking of having a small party to mark the event," Roxanne commented.

Harry shook his head. "You don't have to, I don't need one."

Roxanne frowned, but her face softened when their eyes met. She gently put her hand on his shoulder. "Harry, things are going to be different now. We celebrate birthdays in this family, yours and Remus included."

It was one thing to be part of a family. He was technically a part of the Dursleys for ten years. In that time he had no birthdays, no celebrations, and no gifts. He was a member of the Greengrass extended family for less then an hour and they were already planning his birthday party.

He couldn't help but smile and be thankful with the sudden but welcoming changes that were coming to him this summer. He slowly nodded to the Greengrass Matriarch. "I would like that, if it wouldn't be too much trouble."

"No, no trouble at all," Roxanne waved off his concern. "It gives me an excuse to have cake." She said the last part with a wink and a smile that Harry found infectious.

"Then it is settled," Cyrus decided. "We will have it this Friday evening. Would that be agreeable Harry?"

"Yes, Si-Cyrus,' Harry corrected himself.

"Good, then invitations need to be sent to your friends. Perhaps they could come in the late afternoon this Friday?" Cyrus suggested.

"I would like that," Harry agreed, he couldn't lie to himself. He really had missed all of his school friends and was looking forward to seeing them once again. He had a lot to tell them, and he personally wanted to thank all of them for their concern and worry that had helped push Dumbledore into the position that Harry now found himself in.


That night Harry found himself back in his room. Lying in his bed, under his own sheets. The young Slytherin was unable to stop smiling since this evening when he had been informed that he was now a part of the Greengrass family.

The fact that they had welcomed him into his house before, and that they had sought to be his Guardian meant more to the young man then words could probably ever explain.

He wasn't use to being wanted. He was use to being discarded. His purposes at the Dursleys were simple do chores, work, and stay out of sight.

Be thankful for scraps. Be thankful for the cupboard. Be thankful for Dudley's clothes. Be thankful that he was there and not in an orphanage.

No longer did Harry have to hear their taunts or curses. He was now a member of a different family, one who wanted him. People who loved his parents like true family would, and unlike the way the Dursleys did. These were people who wanted what was best for him, who wanted him to be happy.

Harry could only blink back a grateful tear in the darkness as his mind and heart were soothed by the different direction his life had taken. It was with that smile that Harry finally was able to slip into slumber.

No dream, no thoughts he found in the world of his imagination would be able to equal the amount of happiness he felt that evening around his new family-the Greengrasses and Remus.


It had been three days since the Greengrass family had told Harry that they had filed the paperwork for him to be their ward. Three days when they told him that he would be having his first ever Birthday party that he could remember.

He had immediately written out letters to Hermione, Theodore, Tracey, and Neville asking them if they would be able to come that Friday afternoon. Hermione, Tracey, and Neville's replies arrived by the next morning at breakfast. All were enthusiastic yeses, all sounded and seemed excited with seeing Harry and wanting to know what happened to him that caused him to ignore their letters all summer.

He would have mirrored call them, but he wanted to tell them all at once. He also wanted Hedwig to get some exercise especially since she was caged up all summer.

By Thursday, Harry had yet to hear from Theodore about his birthday. He tried mirror calling his Slytherin friend, but after the fifth try he gave up. It was a dispirited Harry who made his way to Cyrus's office.

It was in his office that Harry was getting his instructions on finances and politics in the wizarding world. Harry couldn't believe how much detail was needed in both fields. He was learning skills and lessons; he doubted he would have picked up at Hogwarts. Which made him all the more thankful for the lessons that Cyrus and Roxanne were giving him.

Cyrus Greengrass was sitting behind his impressive dark mahogany desk, numerous pieces of parchments were scattered about its surface. He sat in a tall, leather bound chair.

Harry gently knocked on the open door.

Cyrus looked over a piece of parchment before waving Harry in.

Harry quietly made his way across the expensive carpets that covered the floor. His green eyes were taking in the impressive amount of books and texts that the Greengrass Patriarch had collected over the years. The soon to be second year Slytherin took a seat in a round leather chair in front of his desk.

"I will be with you in a minute, Harry," Cyrus said from behind a piece of parchment.

"I can come back later," Harry replied, not wanting to disturb the man.

Cyrus's blue eyes looked over the piece of parchment. "That won't be necessary." He then put down the paper he was reading. He folded his hands on his desk, while his eyes remained on Harry. "I wasn't expecting you for another hour."

"This isn't about our lessons," Harry explained slowly, not sure how he should continue.

"Very well, what is this about?"

Harry opened and closed his mouth several times as he tried to broach the topic about his friend, but not knowing how. "Its about a friend of mine sir."

Cyrus's brows rose. "Go on Harry."

"He hasn't written to me all summer. I tried to write to him and mirror call him but both proved ineffective," explained Harry. When he heard his words out loud a dreadful feeling gripped his insides. What if Theodore hadn't replied to Harry, because he didn't want to be friends with him anymore?

Harry shook his head. He didn't doubt Theo's friendship, nor should he. He was more concerned with Theo because of who he lived with.

"You are referring to Theodore Nott?"

Harry was slack jawed. He looked up to see Cyrus show him a small smile before offering the younger man a shrug. "It is, sir."

"It was not hard to guess, Harry." Cyrus observed. "Do you trust Theodore?"

"With my life," answered Harry without hesitation. After what he and the others went through to get to the Stone, it was hard not to trust any of his friends.

Cyrus scratched his chin. "I'm sure Claudius wasn't very happy with Theo's choice of friends."

"You don't think he did something to Theo?"

"No, Claudius is not that foolish," Cyrus dismissed.

Harry let out a breath. He was nervous for his friend's well being because of the apparently 'dark' house he grew up in with his father.

"I'm stopping by the Ministry later this afternoon Harry," Cyrus said. "I will see if I can talk to Mr. Nott and work this out."

"Thank you, I would really appreciate it."

"I take it, this is about the party on Friday?"

"In part," answered Harry honestly. "But I'm also worried about him."

Cyrus nodded, before scribbling something on a piece of parchment but Harry wasn't in a position to see what had been written. "You're a good friend, Harry. I'm thankful that you are friends with my own daughter."

"I'm no-" the Greengrass Patriarch cut off Harry before he could dismiss the man's compliment.

"No, Harry you are special, and I don't want you to think differently."

"I'll try sir," Harry said, a small feeling of pride swelling in his chest.

"Don't try, do and it's Cyrus," corrected Mr. Greengrass.

Harry returned the man's smile before standing up. "Thank you for your help, I didn't mean to bother you."

"You didn't bother me, Harry," Cyrus said, also standing up. "I don't want you to think that ever. If you have a problem, I want you to know that you can see me, Roxanne or Remus. No matter where or what it is. Do you understand?"

"I do now."

"Good, now I think I can smell Blinky making cookies in the kitchen."

Harry could smell the intoxicating aroma of baked cookies too. His mouth watered slightly and his stomach rumbled for attention. A cookie did sound nice right about now, especially since Cyrus had promised to look into the Notts.

It was a weird feeling for Harry Potter, knowing that people were available to help him. People who wanted to help him with his troubles and problems. It was something Harry was not going to take for granted.


It wasn't until halfway through dinner that Cyrus Greengrass flooed in from the Ministry. He looked very tired as he dragged himself into his chair at the dinning room table. Roxanne greeted him with a kiss on the cheek while an enthusiastic Blinky greeted her master with fresh coffee and a hot plate of dinner.

Cyrus let out a tired sigh after thanking the house-elf for being so thoughtful.

"What is it Cyrus?" asked Roxanne, she stood beside his chair, her hand on his shoulder.

"I was just reminded why I don't go into the Ministry that often."

"That bad?" asked a sympathetic Remus, from his left.

"That bad," Cyrus agreed. "And then some."

"Cornelius his usual self?" asked Roxanne.

From Harry's political lessons with Cyrus he was able to realize they were talking about the Minister of Magic, Cornelius Fudge. A man who Cyrus did not bother hiding his dislike for in their lessons.

"Yes, and his undersecretary." Cyrus shuddered. "Looks like a toad."

Astoria giggled at the description. "Does she eat flies?

Cyrus and the other adults chuckled. "I wouldn't be surprised."

Daphne too smiled at her father's insult of Fudge and his cohorts. The way Daphne and Astoria reacted, Harry was sure they were use to politics at the dinner table.

Remus let out an almost animal like growl at the mention of the undersecretary. When he noticed that Harry was looking at him, he gave him an apologetic smile. "Sorry, Pup. She's just not a very pleasant woman."

Harry could only nod at his pseudo-uncle's description. Unsure of the woman in question but judging by Cyrus, Roxanne, and Remus's reactions to the name he was sure she was not a very pleasant woman.

Cyrus patted his wife's hand that was on his shoulder. "But alas I'm home and the evil talk of politics and work should not ruin our good dinner."

Roxanne smiled in agreement, bending over to kiss his cheek once more before returning to the opposite side of the table.

Cyrus folded his napkin in his lap. It was when he began cutting up his chicken did he speak again. "I bumped into Claudius."

"Did you?" asked Roxanne.

Harry could tell she was rather interested with this bit of news. He turned to his friend, Daphne her face darkened at the mention of the name.

"Yes, he was talking with Lucius and Cornelius."

"Quite the company," remarked Roxanne dryly. She sipped her wine, still looking a bit annoyed at the names mentioned.

Cyrus nodded, "Yes, I believe they call themselves 'the money that buy freedom' party."

Remus snorted to Harry's left and Roxanne laughed into her wine glass. Daphne too smiled and giggled at the insult, Astoria joined in the giggling but Harry was sure the young girl was doing it more because the other adults were doing it.

"I asked him about his son."

"Please tell me you are talking about Claudius and not Lucius?"

"Yes, I am," he clarified.

"Who's Lucius?" asked Harry, finding himself lost in the names.

"Mr. Malfoy," answered Daphne, wrinkling her nose in disgust.

Roxanne nodded, "yes, I will never understand how Narcissa ended up with that man. He was so vile in school, and proved just how much outside of it."

"Money," answered Remus darkly.

"That certainly is true," Cyrus said, taking a long sip from his own goblet of wine.

"Did you find about Theodore?"

Harry was surprised that Roxanne was aware of the situation. He should have expected her to, it seemed that the couple did not keep secrets from each other.

"Yes, I did." He said putting down his own goblet. "I invited his son over to our house this Friday in front of half the Ministry."

Roxanne laughed, before shaking her head. "You didn't Cyrus?"

Cyrus smirked. "Yes, I didn't want him worming out."

"So he agreed?" asked Roxanne, sounding to have approved of her husband's methods.

"Yes, he did," answered a smug Cyrus.

Harry couldn't help but smile at this announcement. He was both thankful and excited that Cyrus had talked to Mr. Nott and had arranged for Theodore to come over this Friday. Harry had missed Nott's correspondences and was looking forward to seeing all of his other friends on Friday.

"I might add he did not look happy."

Roxanne wiping away a mirthful tear could only nod. "No, I don't think he would."

Remus too, shook his head in amusement at his friend's antic. "The ways of Slytherin."

Cyrus grinned and nodded. "Lest thee forget." He added, before turning to his daughters and winking.

They both returned his smile and wink.

"Yes, beware of cunning snakes." Roxanne agreed.

"It was my cunning that got you," Cyrus observed, sending his wife a smile from across the table.

She took a sip from her goblet. "It didn't hurt that you were good looking and smart."

"Yes, but I remember your friends were not quite happy when they found out about us."

"What?" asked Harry, knowing that his own parents were friends with Roxanne and Cyrus. He could only wonder if they were not friends with the couple when they were back in school because of house rivalries. "Why not?"

"The prejudices of Slytherin," Cyrus answered plainly. "It didn't hurt that many of those within my house became Death Eaters."

Harry turned to Roxanne, needing to know about his own parents. "What about mine?"

Cyrus sighed, "James and I did not become friends until after he graduated."

"What? Why?" asked Harry, surprised by this bit of news. In all the stories they told about his parents, he was sure they had been good friends for a long time.

"He was not a fan of Slytherins."

"He was not the only one," admitted Remus, turning to Cyrus. "I'm sorry about that."

Cyrus waved off Remus's apology. "It is in the past." He then turned to Harry. "I'm sure your father would be very proud of you, now. You were able to do what we could not."

"What do you mean?"

"You are able to look past House affiliation," clarified Cyrus. "You judge by character, not association. It is a worthy trait."

Harry didn't know how to respond to such a compliment.

Cyrus seemed to understand and bowed his head to the young man. "However, your father became one of my closest friends during the war."

"What about my mother? Did she mind you and Cyrus being together," asked Harry, turning to Roxanne knowing she had been friends with his mother throughout school.

Roxanne looked as if she was trying to remember that far back. "I don't think she did. I mean she had a friend in Slytherin. If there was one thing about Lily Potter is that she was fiercely loyal to her friends."

Remus nodded in agreement. "That she was. She was a great person." He then tilted his own goblet as if toasting his fallen friend. He then drank its contents dry.

Harry's mind went blank though at Roxanne's revelation. His mother had a friend in Slytherin. He had never heard about that particular detail in all of the stories that Roxanne, Cyrus, and Remus had told about his parents. He was quickly trying to surmise who was this mysterious friend from Slytherin.

"Wait," Harry said, holding up his hands. "My mom had a friend in Slytherin?"

"He hasn't told you?" asked a confused Roxanne.

"Who?" asked Harry.

"Your Head of House," explained Roxanne. "Lily's friend was Severus Snape."

Time stood still for Harry Potter with that answer. He couldn't believe what he was hearing. His Head of House and Potions Professor was friends with his mother? In all his time with the man, Snape had never mentioned the fact that he and Lily were friends.

"You didn't know?" asked a surprised Cyrus.

Harry shook his head, still trying to wrap his mind about what he was just informed. "No, he never said anything."

Remus sighed. "It's not surprising after what happened in our fifth year."

Roxanne nodded sympathetically.

"What happened?" asked Harry.

"He called Lily a rather vile name," answered Roxanne, the frown on her face showing her disapproval of the action. "A name to describe Muggle-borns."

Harry didn't need to be told what the name was. He had a hunch on what it was. He had heard Malfoy used it numerous times on Hermione during their first year. He learned that it was a very nasty name. To think that Snape would call his mother that made Harry angry especially if they were friends. He would never call Hermione that.

"How did they become friends?" asked Daphne.

Remus rubbed his chin thoughtfully. "If I recall they were friends before school. I remember them our first year on the train. They had come together I think and were already friends."

"Yes, Severus lived in a neighborhood not far from Lily," Roxanne agreed. "I remember Lily telling me that it was Severus who told her that she was a witch. He had introduced her to our world before she ever got her Hogwarts letter."

The dinner conversation soon shifted to various other topics, but Harry's mind remained on what the three adults had told him…

It wasn't long after these revelations that Harry found himself in bed, under his covers.

Harry couldn't believe what he was hearing. His head was swimming with these newfound revelations.

His mother was friends with his Head of House when they were at school. They had been friends before she was at Hogwarts. Which made Harry wonder if Snape also knew Petunia. He had also ruined their friendship by uttering that vile name…

He could only wonder why Snape had never told him that he knew his mother. Not just knew but were friends for years. Was this why Snape had cautioned him about the politics of Slytherin last year? Harry wanted to know why Snape would call his mother such a name if they were indeed truly friends? With each revelation, Harry Potter was left with more questions. The frustrated Slytherin realized he wouldn't get his answers until he was back at Hogwarts. Until then all he could do was wonder about the possibilities…


Harry stirred under the covers, blinking in the sunlight that shimmered through the blinds, illuminating the room. It was Friday and Harry would be seeing his friends for the first time this summer, minus Daphne.

He couldn't help but feel excited, especially since Theo would be coming. He was worried for his friend, since none of his friends were able to contact the Slytherin.

Harry slipped out from under his covers and went over to his dresser. He threw on a new pair of jeans and shirt. He was glad that he had gone to Cyrus and asked for his help. It was still a new feeling for Harry Potter. However, it was something he didn't plan on wasting. There were now people in his life that wanted to help him.

A sudden knock to the door pulled him away from his thoughts. "Yes?"

"You up, Pup?"

"Come on in, Moony." He went back to the mirror over his dresser, trying in vain to straighten up his messy black hair. He frowned at the impossible task.

"I remember your father would spend hours trying to tame it," Remus remarked, walking into the room. He was carrying a rather large box, and behind him were several other boxes floating, resembling a small convoy.

The boxes caused Harry to forget about his rebellious hair, gesturing with the brush still in his hand. "What is that?"

Remus only smiled, bringing the box to a small table in front of the fireplace. "Your birthday gift."

"You didn't-"

"Yes, I did," Remus cut in, with a playful wag of his finger. He then pointed to the sofa.

Harry cautiously followed behind the floating boxes that Remus directed to line up along the back of the sofa. The box that Remus had carried, he had placed in the corner of the room, two more rectangular boxes appeared in front of it. It was only when Harry got closer that he realized that those two were not boxes, but speakers.

His green eyes lingered upwards to see what Remus had put down, wasn't a box either. It was a record player.

Remus ran a hand along the speaker, a reminiscent glint in his blue eyes. "This belonged to your mother, Harry."

Harry's eyes widened to the size of saucers at Remus's declaration. He breathed in the records and the speakers with new eyes, his hands hesitantly graced over the record and speakers. His eyes closed as if trying to imagine his mother using this record player, imagining her playing records. Harry's smile could only grow at the comforting thought that this once belonged to his mother.

He had nothing that belonged to his mother. He had his father's old wand holster. He also had his father's old invisibility cloak. They were two of his most treasured possessions.

"This was specifically designed, like a wizard wireless, so that your mother could listen to her records within a magical home." Remus said softly, his eyes were still on the record player. "Your mother loved music, Harry."

"Really?"

Remus nodded, his fingers gently tapping the corner of the large speakers. "Oh yes, every time we would come over. She would always be playing music."

Harry found a sudden hunger growing within. "What did she like?"

Remus gestured with his free hand to the other boxes that were lined along the sofa.

Harry approached the boxes and noticed the numerous vinyls that were carefully stacked in the boxes. He gingerly grabbed the first box. He tentatively went through the records, realizing that these once belonged to his mother. These were his mother's favorite records. That she would play these.

He browsed through the first box:

Pet Sounds-The Beach Boys

Rubber Soul- The Beatles

Abbey Road-The Beatles

Cosmo's Factory- Creedence Clearwater Revival

Blonde on Blonde- Bob Dylan

Rumours- Fleetwood Mac

Led Zeppelin IV- Led Zeppelin

Aftermath- Rolling Stones

Teaser and the Firecat- Cat Stevens

The names were vaguely familiar to Harry Potter. However, he never listened to any of these bands. His Aunt and Uncle didn't like this kind of rebel rousing music. He could only smile as he realized this was the kind of music that his mother would listen to. She was a rebel at heart. That thought only served as another piece to the puzzle of Harry's parents. An effort he was undergoing in an attempt to better understand the parents he never knew.

"Did my dad like the music?"

Remus chuckled, "he had never heard of them before he knew Lily. He considered it the greatest downside of growing up in the wizarding world."

"Really?"

Remus smiled, "oh yeah, he would play the records very loud and sing along with him." Remus then paused, shaking his head, as his smile only grew wider. "He was a terrible singer."

Harry could only chuckle at the image his pseudo uncle was painting of his father 'rocking out.'

Remus wiped away a mirthful tear. "Oh yes, he would crank up 'Helter Skelter' at its max volume and pelt the song as loud as his vocal cords allowed him."

"Helter Skelter?" asked a confused Harry, unsure if he heard correctly.

Remus gave a dramatic sigh. "I suppose we should add Rock and Roll to your lessons this summer." He then walked over to one of the crates that were holding the vinyls. He pulled out a pure white album. Harry could only see the words, The Beatles, written on the front of the album.

"The White Album," Remus declared, raising the LP over his head to make his point. "A double album, Helter Skelter is one of the songs on here. It's a masterpiece!" Gesturing the album in his hands, he continued.

"Your mother use to sing you one of the songs, before you would go to sleep."

"Which one?"

Remus must have noticed Harry's excitement as he brought the vinyl to the record player. He gently removed the needle and placed the record on and put the needle back on.

The speakers crackled to life, as string instruments began to play through the room. Harry quirked his brow, he wasn't expecting such soothing strings on a rock album. He allowed the strings that filled the room to envelop him as a sense of peace settled in him. He forgot about his friends coming over, forgot about the Dursleys, about school, and allowed the music to fill him and take him to a better place.

He closed his eyes, just as a unique but calming voice began to gently sing:

"Now its time to say goodnight.

Goodnight. Sleep tight.

Now the sun turns out his light.

Goodnight. Sleep tight.

Dreams sweet dreams for me.

Dreams sweet dreams for you.

Close your eyes, and I'll close mine.

Good night. Sleep tight.

Now, the moon begins to shine.

Goodnight. Sleep tight.

Dreams sweet dreams for me.

Dreams sweat dreams for you.

Close your eyes, and I'll close mine…"

"That was Ringo," Remus commented, he had taken the needle off of the album, plunging the room back into silence.

"Ringo?"

"One of the Fab Four."

"Fab Four?"

"The Beatles," Remus clarified, bringing his hand to hairline and closing his eyes, but a smile broke through to show that the man was only joking. "We have some work to do this summer, Harry."

Harry returned Moony's smile. He couldn't lie. He was excited about the prospect of listening to his mother's records and learning about the music that his parents loved. Especially since he would be sharing the experience with one of their oldest friends and his pseudo-uncle.

"Can we listen to some more?" asked an eager Harry, who wanted to get started as soon as possible.

Remus chuckled as he removed the record from the player and slid it back into its sleeve. "I was hoping you would say that." He put away the 'White Album' and retrieved another album from the crate that Harry had gone through. He fondly smiled as he picked one of the vinyls up and showed it to Harry.

The Slytherin was confused at the picture he saw, of five young men who looked to be at a petting zoo and feeding the goats and other animals. "This is the band that caused your father and Sirius to try their luck at surfing."

"Surfing?" asked Harry, who noticed that Remus was too caught up in the memories to even sour at the name of Sirius. Which he and the others always did when his name was mentioned.

Remus laughed, "oh yes, the Beach Boys gave us a glimpse of the American lifestyle, especially California." He then went to put the record on. "Sirius was determined to go to California to see if California girls were indeed the best in the world."

"What about the surfing?"

"A spectacular disaster," Remus answered, unable to contain a grin. Harry was sure the man was lost in the memories of what happened to his father and Sirius. "We didn't find out until later that none of the Beach Boys could surf, except for their drummer."

"Really?" Harry asked, who couldn't help but chuckle at that revealing piece of information especially since his father and Sirius had been trying to emulate them.

"Yes," Remus answered, before turning his attention back to the record in his hand. "Ironically this may be their best album and it doesn't include their usual surfing songs..."

Harry was then introduced to the beautiful harmonies and masterfully various arranged instruments that Pet Sounds consisted of. He couldn't help but be enthralled by the voices as he and Remus silently listened to the album, song to song. Harry would find it one of the best spent half an hours of his life…


Sadly, Harry had only enough time to listen to Pet Sounds before a curious Daphne who had heard the music playing interrupted them. She had been instructed to fetch the two so that they could begin a late breakfast.

"What were you two listening too?"

"Music at is finest," answered Remus as he turned off the record player.

Harry could only nod in agreement before adding, "The Beach Boys."

"Oh," she said, her raised brows and blue eyes showed that she was still a bit confused and curious. "They sound familiar."

"I'm sure your parents or Mrs. Davis have played you their music before," answered Remus. "If they haven't, then that should be remedied."

"Can we listen to some more, later?" asked an excited Harry who was slightly disappointed that they had to stop. Though the rumbling in his stomach lessened his disappointment as he recognized his own growing hunger.

Remus smiled, patting Harry on the shoulder, leading the two twelve year olds out of Harry's room. "Of course. We have all summer. I have a lot to teach you."

At this promise Harry could only smile. "What was one of your favorites?"

"Excitable boy by Warren Zevon," answered Remus. "It was gift from your mother when I was feeling down." He sighed, lost in the memories. "It was the balm I needed."

Harry didn't get to ask who Warren Zevon was or about the album as Remus ushered them into the dining room. All thoughts on music vanished when his green eyes took in the pancakes, waffles, sausage, bacon, and eggs.

Cyrus was already at the table, his nose buried in the newspaper. Astoria was nibbling on her eggs while humming softly to herself.

Roxanne walked into the room, smiling as her eyes fell on Harry and the others. "Pet Sounds?"

Remus returned her smile and nodded. He took his customary seat next to Cyrus, who folded the newspaper, to greet the new arrivals.

"I thought I heard music."

"It was pretty," Astoria said, smiling when Harry sat down across from her. "Happy Birthday Harry."

"Thanks, Astoria," he replied. "How's the food?"

"Very good," she answered, turning her attention back to her eggs and sausage.

"Yes, Blinky insisted on a full breakfast," Roxanne remarked, as she and Daphne were the last to sit down. "When she heard that it was your birthday."

"She didn't have to," Harry said shyly, not wanting the house-elf to work more for his behalf.

"She didn't, she insisted," corrected Roxanne. "I'm afraid she spoils this family." Her eyes lingered on her husband who was piling up bacon on his plate.

He must have felt her eyes on him. Since he looked up and offered her a shrug.

Roxanne rolled her eyes, but decided not to comment on her husband's eating habits. She instead poured herself a glass of orange juice. "They should be arriving after Breakfast."

"That's great!" said an excited Harry. Who was piling bits of waffles and pancakes onto his plate. He had yet to get use to Blinky's excellent cooking. Every meal seemed to only get better.

"We have a surprise for you tonight too," Cyrus said, dipping a forkful of pancake into syrup.

"A surprise?" Harry asked, speaking after swallowing a tasty fluffy bite of his waffle.

Cyrus's eyes shimmered, but he didn't make any attempt to clarify his earlier remark.

"Yes, you will just have to wait and see," Roxanne spoke up, before taking a sip from of her orange juice.


"HARRY!"

All Harry could do was brace himself towards the brown blur that nearly toppled him over as he was drowning in bushy brown hair and wrapped in what felt like a vice-grip.

He coughed in response.

"Hermione!" Daphne shouted

The grip thankfully lessened, as did the mane of hair that was brushed away from his face. A blushing Hermione Granger revealed her embarrassment as she pulled away. "Sorry. I was just worried about you."

Harry instinctively rubbed his chest, hoping none of his ribs were broken. "I appreciate it."

She smiled, stepping towards him and wrapping her arms around him again, but this time she did a lot better job of not suffocating him.

He gently patted her back in response. He was getting use to the intimacy and contact. He also felt comfort and was surprised that such a simple thing such as a hug could provide. He still felt awkward and uncomfortable when it came suddenly or too tightly. Hermione had just accidentally demonstrated that point, but she seemed to learn her lesson if her second attempt was any indication.

"Hermione, you've had your turn."

Harry would have recognized that voice anywhere. He tried to fight the blush at the meaning as he and Hermione pulled away to see a grinning Tracey Davis. A mischievous glint in her eyes, as her gaze fell on them.

She then elbowed Daphne. "Competition?"

This caused Harry, Hermione, and Daphne to all blush beet red. Daphne swatted at her Slytherin friend who jumped out of the way still laughing at being successful in making her three friends embarrassed.

She sobered up when she approached Harry. She tentatively put her hands on his shoulder and without word she gently hugged him. "I'm glad your safe." She whispered into his ear.

"Me too," he replied honestly, returning her hug. "Thanks for making sure."

She smiled as she pulled away. She then ruffled his messy hair, which caused Harry to frown and for her smile too only grow. "Still a rat's nest."

"I'm trying," Harry said with an indignant huff as he dragged his hand through his hair. It was a topic that Tracey loved to tease him about.

She rolled her eyes, "I know the perfect spell to fix it."

"No," Harry said with mirth. He was in no way going to allow her to point a wand at his head.

"Tracey, leave the poor boy alone," lectured a woman stepping forward. Harry was sure that this must have been Mrs. Davis. She looked to be a taller version of Tracey. She was dressed in jeans and a blouse. Her auburn hair was shorter, just above the shoulders. Her eyes were the same green-blue, she had a kind face and her smile only highlighted her natural beauty. She like Mrs. Greengrass didn't look a day older then thirty-five.

"I'm Olivia Davis," she said, extending her hand to Harry. "Sadly, I'm Tracey's mother."

"Mum!" protested Tracey at her mother's teasing

She only smiled at her daughter's reaction, shaking Harry's hand. "You may call me, Olivia."

"Its nice to meet you, Olivia," replied Harry. "Thank you for writing to the Headmaster."

"It was nothing," she told him. "I'm just glad that you were able to leave your relatives."

"Me too."

"I want you to know you're always welcome at our place," she said, gently patting his shoulder. "I'll have fresh fudge and cookies too."

"You don't make me cookies," Tracey grumbled with no real venom.

Olivia playfully wagged a finger at Tracey. "Now, now if I made you cookies every time you wanted them. You would be as big as a house."

Tracey and the other girls laughed at this, even Harry couldn't stop himself. It wasn't until he got his laughter under control that he addressed her offer. "Thank you, I appreciate it."

"To prove, that I can cook," Olivia said, she then presented him a plate of cookies that seemed to appear out of thin air.

Harry graciously took the plate, looking to see it covered with chocolate chip cookies. Piles and piles of the deliciously looking cookies, his nose was even tickled with the delightful aroma of being freshly baked.

"Happy Birthday, Harry."

"Thank you," he said. He could already feel his mouth begin to water. He was tempted to tear off the wrapper and begin to eat them, but he could wait until after dinner, he supposed. Especially since Blinky's breakfast had been more then enough to keep him full and his stomach content.

"Liv, you're going to spoil him," Roxanne playfully lectured. She and Cyrus appeared with the Grangers in tow, all four of the adults looked to be having a good time in each other's company.

Olivia bent down to Harry and whispered. "Roxy's just jealous because she can't cook."

"I heard that," replied an amused Roxanne.

"Now, now dear," Cyrus said stepping into the conversation in an attempt to diffuse a potential argument

Roxanne turned to her husband, her hands on her hip. "Well, aren't you going to correct her?"

Cyrus opened and closed his mouth, fumbling for a response. He seemed caught off guard by being brought into the argument. This only caused Harry and all of the others to laugh, including Roxanne who rolled her eyes at her husband's feeble attempt.

"Don't tire yourself out," she teased, as she patted him on the shoulder. She then turned to the other adults. "I will be serving tea if you would like to stay." She offered, before turning to Olivia. "That is unless you think you can make it better?"

Mrs. Davis only smiled and sweetly replied. "Practice makes perfect, Roxy. I'll let you make it."

Harry couldn't help but instantly like Mrs. Davis especially since she and her daughter didn't just share looks, but personalities too. Tracey's always amused Harry with her jokes and comments. Both of which she had used to make himself feel better in the beginning of his first term at Hogwarts. Something he still appreciated.

"I didn't think they would ever leave," Daphne said, as she watched the adults walk out of the dinning room, still laughing and conversing with one another.

"Have you guys heard from Theodore?" asked Hermione as she took a seat at the dinning room table. Harry took the seat next to her, while Tracey and Daphne took the seats across from them. They were waiting for the rest of their friends to arrive, before they went to a more private place, away from eavesdropping parents.

Tracey frowned. "No, I haven't heard from him all summer. He didn't answer my mirror calls or letters."

"Me either," said a visibly upset Hermione. Her fingers began tapping the table nervously.

"He's coming over today," Harry said. "Thanks to Cyrus."

"Yes, what a treat," Daphne muttered with mirth. She plopped her head in her hand before mumbling. "Whoopee."

"That's good," Tracey said before rolling her eyes at Daphne's response.

Hermione nodded her agreement. She too looked relieved that their Slytherin friend would be making an appearance shortly.

"So why didn't you return our letters?" asked Tracey, turning to Harry. "You were very vague in your response. When you finally sent one. "

Harry could feel the eyes of all three girls on him. He had already told Daphne. It had been the first thing he told her, after she all but demanded it from him when he arrived at her house with Dumbledore.

"Let's wait till Neville and Theodore arrive," Harry said, hoping that would sate the two girls curiosity. "I don't want to keep repeating the story."

Tracey frowned but begrudgingly nodded, as did Hermione who looked a bit disappointed that they would have to wait. Harry knew she could be very impatient at times.

"Wait to tell me what?"

Four heads turned at once to see their plump but kind Neville Longbottom walk in. The friends enthusiastically greeted their friend, which only caused the young Gryffindor to smile and his face to flush at their response.

Harry was first to reach his friend, offering him a handshake and a smile. "It's great to see you, Nev."

"You too Harry," Neville replied, shaking his hand. "I was worried about you not responding to my letters. Gran was going to storm the Ministry to find out where you were and check up on you herself."

Harry was taken aback by the described spirit that the Longbottom Matriarch was willing to unleash on the Ministry to aide him. Especially since he had only shared two short conversations with the austere woman.

"It's a story that he isn't willing to tell us," teased Tracey, appearing on his left as she and the other girls exchanged greetings with Neville.

Harry frowned at the jest, but he didn't get to reply since Neville spoke once more.

"Well, I have a story for you then, involving the Weasleys and Malfoys."

Daphne grinned, rubbing her hands together, clear anticipation shimmered in her icy blue eyes. "Now, I have to know."

"Maybe we should wait for Theodore," suggested Hermione.

Daphne scoffed at the Slytherin's name. "We should enjoy ourselves while we can."

"I'm touched, you still care."

"Theo!" said a relieved Harry as his eyes fell on his friend and fellow Slytherin, Theodore Nott walked into the room. He made his way across the room to greet him. "Where have you been?"

"And do you mind going back there?" offered Daphne.

"Father has been very smothering," Theodore said, looking to be delicately picking every word he chose. The boy frowned at the mention of his father and both his expression and body language showed his dislike for his father's decision. "He has been monitoring my mail."

"That's awful!" protested Hermione, looking upset and worried at his conditions. She wasn't the only ones, Tracey and Neville were sharing similar looks and even Daphne didn't attempt a barb or jest at his expense.

Theodore then brought a hand up and rubbed the back of his neck uncomfortably, clearly not wanting to talk about his family situation. "I'm here now."

"Yes, you are." Harry said, deciding that it was appropriate to switch topics. He had seen Theo's expression on his own face, countless times when the Dursleys were brought up.

"Barely," Theo muttered angrily as he shoved his hands in his robe pockets. "Father was of the mind to keep me in my room, or worse send me to the Malfoys."

Tracey and Hermione wrinkled their noses at that unpleasant thought and way to spend the summer.

"I wouldn't wish that on my worse enemy."

"I'll take that as a compliment, coming from you Greengrass," Theo smirked, before turning to the others. "Good summers?"

"It was until you showed up," Daphne replied, with a sweet smile. She seemed to be enjoying herself, and making up for lost time as well as her previous comment.

Theodore rolled his eyes, but didn't comment as Hermione jumped into the conversation retelling her summer adventures with her parents in Ireland.

Neville followed though not as enthusiastic as descriptive as Hermione's, he did mention some of the new plants he had gotten from his family and the continued growth of his greenhouse.

Tracey was next and she shared Hermione's enthusiasm and detail as she talked about her summer with her mother at their beach house. She had spent much of her free time flying her broom and checking out the muggle neighborhoods.

Through all the retellings no matter how different, Harry couldn't help but smile. An expression that was infectious as was evident on the faces of all six friends. Like them, he was sure they were happy to be reunited after the first weeks of summer. He knew he was as he and Daphne led them to the Manor's sprawling backyard this was where Harry launched into his summer with the Dursley's.

He was still embarrassed when talking about the conditions he was forced to live in with the Dursleys, but seeing the genuine expressions from his friends as they surrounded him, was the perfect antidote. Hermione and Tracey even coming close to tears as he revealed to them about the bars and locks on his door and window.

Theo, who had been oddly silent, was the only one unable to look at Harry, keeping his head down mostly, eyes fixed on his shoes. His actions made Harry wonder if his friend was suffering similar conditions that Harry had gone through with the Dursleys.

He didn't to launch into the details of Dobby. He instead circumvented the encounter and focused on Dumbledore's arrival as well as his 'adoption' into the Greengrass family.

He couldn't help but notice the smile on Daphne's lips as he brought that point up. Hermione and Tracey were over the moon about the decision and were already planning on days that they could all get together. As was Neville, they all recognized the fact that now Harry was with the Greengrass family, communication and transportation would be a lot easier and hopefully they could see each other a lot more before school started.

Like before Theodore was silent, and made no attempts or promises of his availability. It was rather clear that he believed it unlikely that he would be seeing any of them until school started. As long as he was under his father's roof, the Nott Patriarch would control his time was spent.

Just as Harry was about to go into more details about Dobby and the house-elf's late night visit, the six friends were called back inside for dinner.

The story would have to wait.


Harry's birthday celebration was magnificent.

But Harry wasn't even sure if that word gave the night justice. The meal that Blinky had provided was as good as breakfast if not better. The company of his friends only adding to the atmosphere, for his first official birthday celebration he was sure it would be remembered as his favorite. Being able to look around the table at friends and his new family were memories that the young man would never forget.

Looking back on the night, he would forget the gifts that were exchanged, and even forget much of the banter. But he was sure that he would never forget the feeling of pure content. He wasn't even sure if anything could make the night better.

He was about to be corrected.

Cyrus and Roxanne Greengrass led the six stomach heavy friends out into the backyard. Which was a sprawling estate of pristinely cut grass that stretched as far as the eye could see.

However, set up only a few feet away from the manor were what looked to be three scarecrows. However, as Harry got closer to them, he realized at once that they weren't scarecrows but effigies!

They were effigies of the Dursleys. And they were dressed in Harry's old clothes.

The one in the middle was Uncle Vernon. Plump, with a bulging stomach that threatened to break the second hand jacket's buttons that buttoned down the chest. His hair was a short brown, his face puffy and his eyes the beady brown that for so long haunted Harry's dreams when he was little.

The one on the left was his Aunt Petunia. The ' female' effigy looked a bit odd wearing a boy's buttoned up coat and trousers. Her face retained her horse like facial features and her long blonde hair.

The one on the right was of his cousin. Though the effigy could have easily passed as a dressed up pig, with a pig-like nose, glazed eyes, plump body and clueless expression.

The similarities were very eerie for Harry Potter.

At the feet of Vernon's effigy was a large box that Harry could see was stuffed with the remainder of his hand-me-downs.

"Are these them?" asked Hermione, carefully examining the three effigies. She like the others had never seen or met the Dursleys. If it was not for them being held up by sticks and for their fabric skin, they could have easily passed as their counter-parts.

"Yeah, these are them," Harry answered, his eyes lingering on his Uncle's effigy.

"At least you didn't share their looks," Tracey pointed out as she and the others took position around Harry. Neville and Theodore patting him on the back while Hermione and Daphne gave his shoulder a squeeze.

Daphne looked over the effigies with clear disgust and hatred. "I still think we should have put them in the clothes and burned them."

"Remind me to never get on your bad-side, Greengrass."

"You're already on it, Nott," was Daphne's tart reply, though the glint in her blue eyes took the sting out of her words.

"This is going to be like Guy Fawke's Night!" squealed an excited Hermione.

"Guy who?" asked a confused Neville, turning to the Gryffindor girl.

"Fake night?" followed up an equally confused Theodore. The two pureblood boys looked at the muggle born with confusion, clearly unaware of the famous muggle tradition that was celebrated every fifth of November.

Harry looked over and wasn't surprised that Tracey seemed to be nodding in agreement with Hermione's comparison. Daphne too looked to be following Hermione's brief explanation of the Gunpowder plot as if she had already heard the story before. Harry chalked it up to being friends with Tracey and her mother, who was a muggle born.

Harry was familiar with Guy Fawkes Night too. He would have thought it impossible not to be, especially the festivities and celebrations that surrounded it. Though he never got to partake in the celebrations, he had caught glimpses of the celebrations on the telle.

"Huh," Theodore said when Hermione finished in her explanation. "It sounds like fun."

"It is," replied an enthusiastic Hermione. "It was one of the things I missed at Hogwarts."

"Me too," agreed Tracey. "Mum would make the best fudge to celebrate the night."

"Maybe Harry can get her to send some this year," Daphne observed, with a growing smile before she added. "She seems to like him more."

"Hah-hah." Tracey replied, with a shake of her head, while the others laughed.

"Harry?" The Greengrass Patriarch's voice cut through the laughter as the six friends sobered up.

He turned around to see Cyrus was holding a torch. Its orange flames at the tip sparked and hissed with embers. He gave him an encouraging smile before extending the torch to him.

Harry carefully grabbed the handle of the torch, seeing his friends supporting faces and encouraging nods and smiles. He took a deep breath and approached the effigies of his relatives.

His eyes never left the effigy of his uncle. He stopped as he arrived within arms reach of the effigy. He raised the torch, but hesitated. The pain and memories of his life under Vernon's care flashed before his eyes.

He shuddered, lowering the torch slightly away from the effigy. Even after the amazing week at Greengrass Manor, the pricks of pain from his ten-year stay at the Dursleys were still fresh in his mind.

The darkness of his cupboard, Harry Hunting, the beatings from Dudley and his friends, the cold feeling of loneliness as he was locked away under the cupboard and even in Dudley's second bedroom this summer. Those could not be forgotten. Not yet.

He blinked back tears.

He felt someone touch his arm. He looked over to see it was Daphne. She gently squeezed his arm before whispering.

"You're free now."

Harry nodded, thankful for her words.

Hermione, Tracey, Theodore, and Neville came around him to offer their comfort. Roxanne, Cyrus, Remus, and Astoria joined too, surrounding the young Slytherin, rallying around him in hopes of expressing to him just how much each one of them cared for him.

It worked.

Taking strength and finding comfort from those around him, Harry extended the torch to his uncle's effigy as the shirt immediately was engulfed in flames. The fire grew and spread to encompass the effigy, as well as the effigies of his aunt and cousin.

Harry tossed the torch into the box of clothes, licks of flames and the spitting of embers could be seen within as the fire devoured its contents.

He could feel the icy chill of loneliness withdraw its grip around his stomach. The images of the Dursleys began to crack and break, becoming unclear and jarring. He felt as if a tremendous weight had finally been removed from his shoulders, allowing him to stand taller, prouder.

He was free.

With the Dursleys finally firmly behind him, Harry Potter could finally move forward with his life.

He found his closure on that crisp summer evening surrounded by his friends and his new family as he watched the effigies burn into the night.


A/N: I know that this and the last chapter were emotionally heavy, but I believe it was imperative for Harry's growth.

The Remus + Harry scene did grow more then what I had originally planned to write, but I believe it was good to see the two bonding, and what better to bond over then music? Lily Potter did have an impressive album collection... Ok I admit those were a small sampling of some of my favorite albums pre-1981. But isn't that a perk of an author? :) Kudos to all those who understood the Warren Zevon reference and its relation to Moony.

The effigies was just an idea that came to me and thought it would be an interesting way to explore Harry's feelings on his relatives and also its symbolism for him to finally let go and move on from them.

"Good night"-written by Lennon/McCartney. They have ownership not me. I am just a devoted fan of their music. Who believes that music has a great power and influence in our lives.

Don't forget to review to let me know what you think.

Thanks again,

-Spectre4hire