Chapter 14—Jacob's Birthday

It was July first, eleven days after Edward's birthday. Things were going very well for the three mates. They learned with the memory stones at night. There were potion lessons every day. And, their training was coming along very well.

The three of them had also discovered that they quite enjoyed kissing. They liked kissing and being kissed and were amazed that watching their mates kiss was just as exciting as kissing them.

But, tonight there would be no kissing. Tonight was Edward and Jacob's night for patrol. Harry would be spending the night with Roland. To their surprise Paul would also be spending the night there guarding Harry.

Jacob had called Paul on his cell phone to check on Harry. As he closed his phone Jacob said, "Paul says that Harry has turned in for the night. But, he spent most of the evening since we left reading a book on first aid." Then looking thoughtful Jacob asked, "Do you think that Harry is interested in healing people or just concerned about helping in the battle?"

Edward answered, "We will have to ask him. But, I think that considering he has had it forced on him since he was eleven that he would have to kill someday…Maybe that is something he would like to do after this is over." Then Edward asked, "What do you want to do? You know for a carrier in the future?"

Shrugging Jacob answered, "Well I already have a job. It is my job, along with the pack to protect the tribe. Beyond that I suppose that one day I will take my father's place on the Council of Elders."

Edward nodded.

Jacob questioned, "What would you like to do for a profession?"

Laughing Edward replied, "You mean besides pretending to be a high school student for eternity?"

Laughing as well Jacob pressed for an answered, "Okay, so if you didn't have to go to high school for ever, what would you do?"

Sobering Edward answered, "I really liked tutoring Harry in English. Maybe I could teach English. Or history, I know a lot of it from firsthand experience. Music, I would love to teach music…to see the eyes of a child light up as a new world was revealed to them."

Jacob smiled at Edward's excitement. Usually Edward as very calm and rather stoic, it was nice to see him so enthused.

Then Edward's enthusiasm vanished and he softly said, "Like anyone is going to let a Vampire teach their children."

Wrapping his arm around Edward's shoulder Jacob said, "You never know. In a world where Werewolves and Vampires fight as allies instead of enemies. A world were a Wizard, a Vampire and a Werewolf are mates…anything can happen."

Albus Dumbledore made his way through the Ministry of Magic; he returned the greeting sent his way. But he was not his usual jovial self. No today he was on a mission, he needed to have a very serious talk with Cornelius.

Upon reaching the Minister's office he was greeted by Percy Weasley. "Good afternoon Professor. The Minister is expecting you. Just let me tell him you are here."

With that Percy excused himself and went into the Minister's office. While he waited, Albus exchanged pleasantries with the portraits of former Ministers that hung in the office. After all he had known many of them in his lifetime.

Percy stepped back into the front office, holding the door open as he said, "The Minister will see you now."

Nodding to Percy as he passed, Albus entered the Minister's office.

Minister Fudge did not look up from the parchment that he was writing on as he said, "Please have a seat Albus; I will just be a minute."

Finishing and laying down his quill Minister Fudge smiled saying, "I am glad that you asked for this appointment Albus, I need to talk to you, but first what can the Ministry do for you?"

Albus said, "Cornelius I have great concerns about Voldemort…"

Fudge interrupted, "Things have been quite, he is lying low to avoid the Ministry capturing him."

Shaking his head Albus went on, "I do not think so. My sources tell me that he is planning and that he is recruiting forces."

With a blustering reply Fudge said, "Nonsense, He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named and his little group of followers are just hiding. They know that it is only a matter of time before the Ministry brings them to justice."

With a sigh Albus advised, "Cornelius he is recruiting from outside the county. He is gathering forces. It would only be prudent for you to seek allies as well."

Acting as if he was insulted Fudge replied, "This bunch of hooligans is nothing that the Aurors and Unspeakables cannot handle. There is no need to go to other governments with hat in hand. NO, doing what you ask would only make the Ministry look weak, as if we can't handle a little domestic problem."

Albus questioned, "Are you calling Lord Voldemort and his Death Eaters a 'little domestic problem'?"

Fudge replied, "It is nothing that the Ministry cannot handle. We are just waiting for him to reveal himself and then we will take him into custody." With a wave of his hand Fudge dismissed the conversation before changing the subject. "Now that is settled I needed to speak to you about some information that has gone missing."

Raising an eyebrow Albus asked, "What information?"

Fudge answered, "All the information on where Harry Potter is has disappeared from the Ministry. And along with it everyone's memories of it are also gone."

Albus questioned, "Why would you need to know where Harry is? You have bound his magic; he can be of no assistance to you."

Fudge replied, "Puff, as if the Ministry needs assistance from a boy. We do not need his help with anything other than public opinion." At Albus' surprised look Fudge continued. "The general public has begun to be concerned that their Savior has abandoned them. He must be seen to reassure them. And it would be for the best if he publicly endorsed the Ministry's efforts and ability to end this problem."

Curious Albus asked, "Why do you think that Harry would endorse the Ministry?"

Giving a nasty smirk Fudge replied, "I am sure that ALL things considered, the boy could be persuaded to do what the Ministry wants."

With his own calculating glare Albus inquired, "What things could possibly persuade him to care what the Ministry wants after what you have done to him?

Waving the question off the question that he had no intention of answering Fudge asked, "So where is the boy?"

Without a moment's hesitation Albus answered, "I have no idea."

Glaring Fudge replied, "Albus, I know that you know where the boy lives. My sources tell me that one of your Professors has been there."

Smiling Albus said, "Ah, but you did not ask me where young Harry lives. You asked if I knew where he was. As I am not with him, I have no idea where he is at the moment." Continuing to smile Albus crossed his arms over his chest.

His face turning red Fudge demanded, "Tell me where the boy lives!"

"No Cornelius," Albus replied.

In a threatening tone Fudge said, "ALBUS!"

Shaking his head Albus replied, "No, you have not given me a reason that Harry would cooperate with you. And I don't think it is worth the risk to him. He is vulnerable now that he cannot use his magic and…"

Fudge yelled, "THE BOY WILL DO AS HE IS TOLD! NOW, TELL ME WHERE HE IS!"

In a stern voice Albus responded, "I said no Cornelius."

Placing his hands on his desk and standing. Fudge leaned over his desk and hissed, "Need I remind you that it is Minster Fudge? And, you will tell me where the boy is…or I will haul you before the Wizengamot and make you!"

Professor Albus Dumbledore rose to his feet. Gone was the smile that usually graced his face. The twinkle that usually was seen in his eyes could not be found, nor could his jovial grandfather image be seen. Leaning over the other side of the desk, he got face to face with Fudge, and through clenched teeth said, "Well Minister, as Chief Warlock of the Wizengamot, I would like to see you try."

Albus then spun around on his heels and stormed out of the office.

Jacob was washing the breakfast dishes as Harry finished getting ready to go to Roland's. And Edward sat staring at the paper lying on the counter. Harry had received a summons to appear in court. He was being called to testify against his uncle and cousin.

Edward asked Jacob, "Why do you think he stayed?"

Confused Jacob asked, "Why who stayed?"

Edward replied, "Harry, why did he stay with his aunt and uncle? And why did he use his money to buy this house."

Jacob answered, "I don't know why he stayed. As far as buying the house, he told us the Ministry forced the house to be bought with Harry's money."

Shaking his head Edward said, "I do not think so. From what I have seen of the Goblins at Gringotts, they would not have given the Ministry one cent of Harry's money. They do not seem to care what anyone says or does. They only follow their own rules."

Putting the last dish in the drying rack Jacob replied, "That's true they do."

Nodding Edward went on, "That means that Harry had to take the money out of the bank to buy the house. But why and why stay with his relatives? It is not like he could not run away. I mean from what he tells us he tried to run away at thirteen."

Jacob burst into laughter. When he finally calmed down he apologized, saying, "Sorry, but the idea of Harry blowing up his uncle's sister is hilarious. I mean her blowing up like a balloon and floating out the door. That is just too funny."

"What is funny?" Harry asked as he entered the room.

Jacob answered, "What happened to your uncle's sister."

Chuckling Harry said, "Yeah, it is now. But, at the time I was scared of what he would do to me. That is why I ran."

Edward picked up saying, "And that is what we were talking about. I do not understand. You left after that at the age of thirteen. But then why didn't you leave after what happened with the collar? Why stay with the way they were treating you? And why pay for the house? You had to be the one to take the money from Gringotts. The Goblins would never have let the Ministry take it. So the question is why?"

Harry looked down as he softly answered, "I cannot tell you."

Jacob growled, "Why can't you tell us? We agreed to not have any secrets." Then after a pause Jacob asked, "Are they forcing you? Blackmailing you?"

Harry did not look up as he shook his head saying, "I cannot say."

"WHY?" Jacob demanded.

Edward who was watching Harry's reaction with curiosity asked, "Harry is it that you will not tell us? Or is it that you cannot?"

Jacob questioned, "What is the difference?"

Edward answered, "The difference is; I think Harry would tell us if he could. But, I think there is a reason that he cannot." Then turning back to Harry he asked, "Will not or cannot?"

Harry whispered, "Cannot."

Narrowing his eyes Jacob asked, "And would the reason you can't tell us be because you were threatened or because you are unable to tell us?"

Harry answered, "I cannot say."

Edward asked, "Jacob what are you getting at?"

Jacob replied, "I can guess why he can't tell us." Then turning back to Harry he questioned, "Harry, is the reason that you can't tell us…magical?"

Starting to get Jacob's line of thought Edward said, "So you think someone has done something to him? That someone is using something to force him to do what the Ministry wants. Then they have blocked him from telling anyone what is going on." Then rolling his eyes and wanting to smack himself in the head Edward added, "Why am I saying someone? The Minister or the Ministry did this. Look at all the other things they did to him, it had to be them."

Then Edward asked, "Harry, are we right? Is the Ministry forcing you? Have they blocked you from telling anyone?"

Harry gave a shaky nod.

Jacob growled and stormed over to the counter, snatching up the car keys.

Edward questioned, "What are you doing?"

Jacob answered, "We're taking him to Roland." Then looking Harry in the eyes he said, "If it's magic keeping you from telling us. Then Roland will know how to fix it or where to take you to get it fixed."

Harry again nodded.

Edward and Jacob each took one of Harry's hands and pulled him towards the car.

Roland was all smiles when he went to open the door. He knew that it would be the boys, as he had started to think of them. He was looking forward to their lessons as he did every day. He really was enjoying teaching them.

Roland opened the door and was surprised when the three of them breezed past him without a greeting.

Once they were all inside Edward said, "Roland, we need your help."

Before Roland could answer Jacob explained, "We think the Ministry has done something to Harry. We think they have forced him to do things and blocked his ability to say anything about it. Is that possible?"

Trying to recover from his shock Roland said, "The only way I know to magically force someone to do what you want is to put the Imperious curse on them." Harry shook his head no. Roland then continued saying, "But to block someone from saying something that could be a compulsion charm."

Harry gave another shaky nod.

Roland took out his wand mumbling, "I should have checked for magic like this. But, I only thought to check him physically." Then looking at Harry he said, "I'm sorry my boy."

Harry replied, "You could not have known."

Roland then raised his wand and began scanning Harry for any trace of magic used on him.

When he had finished Roland growled and ordered Edward and Jacob. "Take a hold of him."

Edward asked, "What is it?"

Jacob demanded, "What is going on?"

Roland answered, "He has a compulsion charm on him." Then looking at Harry he said, "It is a very complicated charm and there isn't a counter to it. It will have to be broken by pushing on it with magic. This may be very painful, but it is the only way to get rid of it."

Squaring his shoulders Harry gave a curt nod. As Roland grew his wand into a staff, Edward and Jacob each got a secure hold on one of Harry's arms.

Roland stepped forward and placed the glowing tip of his staff against Harry's chest. Soon they were both groaning under the strain. Then Harry's legs gave way and he knew that the only thing keeping him on his feet was his mates. Finally Harry cried out as they all heard a POP.

Roland stepped back and nodded as the Edward and Jacob moved to the couch. They sat down with Harry between them as Roland's staff returned to a wand.

Taking the seat across from the couch Roland asked, "Now who did this and why?"

Still panting Harry answered, "Fudge, he wanted to keep me in line. He said that I would do exactly as he said or he would…"

Albus went down to breakfast the next morning. It would only be him and the four heads of house that were here during the summer.

Nodding in greeting to the others Albus sat down and started his breakfast.

After having spent half their breakfast in silence Minerva sat down her utensils and said, "Alright Albus enough silence. What happened in your meeting with Fudge? Has he agreed to ask the other Ministries for help?"

Setting his own silverware down Albus answered, "No, the Minister believes that the Aurors and the Unspeakables will be able to handle everything. As a matter of fact he believes that Voldemort is hiding because he knows the Ministry will capture him. They are only waiting for him to show himself so that they can take him into custody."

Professor Filius Flitwick grumbled, "The man is an idiot…what a surprise."

Nodding Albus said, "True, but what is a surprise is his interest in Harry."

Severus asked, "And why is our esteemed Minister interested in Potter?"

Albus answered, "It seems that the general public is concerned about not seeing him. They are afraid that their savior has abandoned them. That is the reason he wants to find where Harry is. He intends to have Harry be seen and for Harry to publicly endorse the Ministry's actions."

Snorting Severus said, "As if Potter would do what the Ministry wanted."

Shaking his head Albus said, "The Minister seemed very convinced that Harry would do what he wanted."

Minerva asked, "Do you think what the children said is true?"

Professor Pomona Sprout questioned, "What children and what did they say."

Albus explained, "Young Harry's friends have a theory that the Minister is using something to force Harry to do what he wants." Then turning to Minerva he said, "Yes, from the way the Minster was acting I think it is true."

Professor Snape tried to hide his laugh while Professor Flitwick made no attempt to hide his.

Leaning forward smiling, his twinkling eyes gazing over his half-moon glasses Albus said, "And I agree with the children. When Harry finds a way around whatever the Minster has done…I would not want to be the Minister."

Minerva questioned, "You think Harry will be able to find a way around this?"

Severus answered, "Potter has a way of getting around rules and other things that are meant to make him do what others want."

Nodding Albus said, "I have learned with Young Harry that the difficult he does right away, the impossible just takes longer. I do however agree with his friends, someone is going to be on the receiving end of the Potter temper."

Filius added, "Not to mention the Evans temper. Lily was a sweet woman, but when you pushed her enough she had the temper to match her red hair."

Pomona said, "That is all well and good but what do we do about keeping Mr. Potter hidden in the meantime?"

Whatever Albus was going to say was cut off when an owl flew in threw an open window. The Ministry owl swooped down and dropped a letter in front of him and left.

Albus opened the letter to read it. Then looked down at his right hand, the ring on his finger tingled. Then in his hand another ring appeared.

Looking up at his friends a very emotional Albus said, "It seems that there was an attack on Hogsmead last night. Alberfoth is listed among the dead. My younger brother is gone…I am the last of the Dumbledore's."

Paul and Emmett were walking through the village. The two nights before had been their evening to patrol. At the end of their patrol Emmett had said that he was going to go hunting. Paul decided that he wanted to go along, to watch.

The chase had been a real adrenalin rush and Paul had watched in awe as Emmett fought the bear. After Emmett had finished feeding from the bear, Paul had walked over and picked it up.

With the massive bear over his broad shoulder Paul headed back to the village.

Emmett followed asking, "What are you doing?"

Paul explained that he could not see why the bear should just be left to rot way. He thought that the animals that the Cullen's drank from could be used to help feed the people of the village.

Paul said, "The spirit of the bear gives us courage, and in death their body nourishes the people."

Emmett liked the idea that the animals they fed from could then be used to feed others.

Having taken the bear to a couple of women that had been friends with his mother, Paul worked out a deal. They could have the bear to feed their families if they gave him two steaks and the fur when it was ready. He had also offered them first choice on any of Emmett's other kills.

The deal had been struck and this morning Paul was picking up his steaks, when he ran into Emmett.

Emmett had grown to like the Werewolf during their time on patrol. If you could get past the volatile temperament, Paul was actually a nice guy. He had a great sense of humor and would be a good and loyal friend.

Emmett laughed to himself thinking, 'Maybe that has something to do with his canine alter ego.'

Paul and Emmett were talking about last night's game as they got close to Roland's house. Just as they were about to pass by Edward and Jacob exited the house.

Smiling Emmett said, "Hey Little Bro!"

Edward answered, "Emmett I'm glad you're here, we need your help."

Losing all traces of humor now gone Paul turned to Jacob and asked, "Jake, what's up?"

Jacob explained, "We just found out that Harry has been being blackmailed by the Ministry. And they used magic to keep him from saying anything or telling anyone. Roland found the charm and broke it. It seems that they have forced Harry to do things, and if he didn't do what they wanted then they would…"

Jacob went on to explain what they had learned. By the time he finished both Emmett and Paul were furious and growling.

Paul's massive chest was heaving up and down as he struggled with his temper.

Edward then said, "And that is why we need your help."

Emmett turned to his brother and asked, "Does this help include the crushing of bones?"

Edward smirked, could always count on Emmett to be ready to kick some butt. Then sobering Edward explained, "Not at first. We need you two to do something important for us. When we go to England for the battle, Harry and Roland are going to make a…portkey to take us there. But, they are going to make a second one that we want you two to use. It will take you somewhere else in England so that you can do this for us before the battle. Then we need you to…"

The day of Jacob's birthday finally came. There was to be a huge party and bonfire on the beach for him. The Cullen's were of course invited as they were now part of Jacob's extended family. It also helped that many of the pack and the Cullen's were building friendships on their patrols.

Esme had made a mountain of food and Rosalie and Leah were carrying it down from the car in the parking lot. The two of them were making catty remarks about how the food was enough for an army. But, with the way the boys (bottomless pits) from the pack ate they would probably run out.

Out in the surf Harry was sitting on Jacob's shoulders trying to knock Paul into the water and off Emmett's shoulders. More like trying to keep Paul from sending him into the water.

In the end Harry lost and was shoved off Jacob's shoulders and landed in the water.

When Harry came out of the water he said, "Ok, your turn Jacob."

Jacob laughed saying, "And who do you think can hold me up on their shoulders?"

Edward having heard this swam up behind Jacob and stuck his head between Jacob's legs and stood up, lifting Jacob into the air.

Jacob gave a squeal…or a manly shout as he referred to it.

Edward was laughing when he said, "You may be big and strong, but you are not the only one that is strong.

Jacob looked down at his mate and smiled saying, "No, I'm not."

Jacob then tucked his legs under Edward's arms and locked his feet behind Edward's back. He looked at Paul with a smirk and said, "Bring it on!"

And the battle was on. Paul and Jacob were locked in combat as Emmett and Edward tried to trip each other. No one was gaining ground against the other and none of them were willing to surrender.

Harry had taken to swimming around them and splashing them as he harassed them all.

Soon the battle was joined by Leah who was perched on Rosalie's shoulders.

In the end it was called a draw. They only stopped because Leah and Paul were shaking from the cold and their lips were blue.

As they waded ashore Paul looked at Jacob and grumbled, "I don't see how his being so cold can't bother you." Then looking at Harry he added, "And you little Wizard don't seem bothered by Jacob being hot or Edward being cold."

Harry answered, "Just for the record I am not little. You are just extremely tall…and big!" Then taking the hand of both of his mates he said, "The magic of the bond protects us. I am aware the Jacob is much warmer than a muggle or Wizard. I am also aware that Edward is much colder. While I am aware of it I am not affected by it."

Laughing Paul said, "I notice you didn't use the word normal or human when comparing them."

Leah chimed in saying, "Or freak in their case."

Harry dropped both of his mates' hands and Paul and Leah shouted as they were lifted out of the water. The veins in Harry's neck were sticking out and his face was a mask of rage as he shouted, "DO NOT EVER SAY THAT! DO NOT EVER CALL THEM THAT!"

Jacob stepped up and put a hand on Harry's shoulder saying, "Harry calm down."

Edward put his hand on Harry's other shoulder and said, "Harry, you need to put them down."

Leah and Paul shouted again as they were released and fell into the water.

Harry turned to his mates, and the rage was gone from his face. In its place were silent tears streaming down his face.

Soon Harry was wrapped in his mates' arms as he sobbed into their shoulders. Harry then felt himself being lifted up.

Edward picked Harry up and placed him in Jacob's arms saying, "Take him ashore." And in a flash Edward was gone.

When they reached the shore Jacob sat down on a blanket Edward had laid out for them. Edward then wrapped Harry in a large beach towel, rubbing his shoulders as he sobbed against Jacob's chest.

Everyone had gathered around to see what was wrong.

Roland and Carlisle shared a knowing glance. They had known that Harry was not as adjusted to what all had happened to him as he liked people to believe. The two of them had discussed that Harry would need to have some emotional breakdowns as part of the healing process. But, they also knew that he would not do so until he trusted those around him to see he could be vulnerable.

When Harry finally calmed down he spoke softly, but everyone could hear him when he said, "They hated magic. They hated anything that was not normal. Because of magic I was not normal, I was not human…I was a freak." Then looking up at Jacob he said, "But, you are normal…normal for what you are." Then turning to Edward he added, "And you are human." Turning a glare on Leah he gritted out, "They are not freaks."

Leah apologized saying, "Harry, I didn't mean to upset you. I didn't mean anything by it. Hell, I have been calling Jacob a…that word since he was little."

Harry replied, "They did that to me. It wasn't until I started school that I learned that Boy or Freak wasn't my name."

Esme and many others clasped their hand over their mouth in shock. Who could treat a little boy like that?

Harry finally looked back at Jacob as said, "I'm sorry I did not mean to ruin your birthday."

Smiling Jacob answered, "I am on a blanket on a beautiful beach with my mates. And we are surrounded by friends and family. What could be better?"

Jacob leaned in a kissed the top of Harry's head. Edward kissed his head too. The two of them locked eyes, promising each other that they would help Harry heal.

After a silence Alice piped up shouting, "PRESENTS!"

They all looked at her like she was crazy.

She just shrugged her shoulders and said, "Well I like presents and it's time for them." Getting up and dashing off to get them she added, "And then cake!"

Shaking his head Paul said, "I don't understand her fascination with cake." Leah glared at him as he continued, "What, it's not like she can eat any?"

Once the presents were all brought Jacob began to unwrap them. He thanked everyone as he opened their gift and truly seemed to appreciate everything he got.

About half way through opening presents he got to Harry's present. Opening the box Jacob pulled the present out as Quill laughed saying, "He got you a dress too!"

As Jacob stood Paul replied, "Those are Wizard's robes…don't you pay attention?"

Harry stood taking the deep burgundy robes with bronze trim and placing them against Jacob's chest saying, "Of course they are Wizard robes and Jacob will look amazing in them."

Jacob softly said, "Harry, you know Werewolves and Vampires are not well thought of in the Wizarding world. People may not approve of you taking us out."

Running his hand over Jacob's chest Harry replied, "I have the two most handsome mates in the magical world."

Emmett shouted, "HEY!"

Rolling his eyes Harry said, "As I was saying, I have the two most handsome mates in the magical world. And if you think that I am not going to show you off, then you are crazy. Let them eat their hearts out."

When Jacob had finished opening his presents he looked around shocked. There had not been a present from Edward.

Before his train of thought could go any farther Edward took his hand saying, "Come with me. My present was too large to wrap."

Still holding Jacob's hand Edward lead him up to the parking lot, as Jacob dragged Harry behind him by the hand.

Once they got near the parking lot Edward made Jacob close his eyes. Then with his hands over Jacob's eyes Edward led him into the parking lot.

When they reached Jacob's present Edward removed his hands and he and Harry shouted, "Surprise!"

Jacob was in shock and could not believe his eyes. There in front of him was a red '67 Camera. It had a white interior and white convertible top. He thought to himself, 'It's amazing…this thing must be worth a fortune.'

With that thought Jacob turned to Edward and hissed, "Edward."

Harry stepped up and put his hand on Jacob's chest saying, "Now Jacob, do not be mad at him."

Hurt, Edward asked, "Do you not like it? You liked Harry's car so much that I thought you would like it."

Seeing the hurt in Edward's eyes Jacob calmed as he said, "I do like it. I love it…but it is too much!"

Edward shook his head saying, "It is not too much. It is not like I bought you a Ferrari or something."

With a sigh Jacob said, "Edward that car cost a lot of money. You should not be using Carlisle's money like that."

Edward replied, "I did not use Carlisle's money; I have money of my own."

Harry said, "Edward is not hurting for money let him spend it as he likes."

Jacob said again, "But, it's too much."

Harry then asked, "Then what would have been enough?"

Jacob answered, "I don't know…a pencil."

Edward was really confused now and asked, "You wanted a pencil?"

Seeing that Edward was upset Jacob stepped over and rested his forehead against Edward's and said, "A pencil would have been perfect. Because, it came from you and I love you."

Edward replied, "I love you too and I wanted you to have it."

Before anyone could say anything Harry stepped up and added his forehead to theirs saying, "And I love both of you. Jacob could not this gift just be perfect because it is from Edward, and it was given to you with love?

Jacob and Edward answered Harry with matching, "I love you too."

Then Jacob finally said, "It is a gift from my mate. I guess that makes it perfect, regardless of the price."

Edward then whispered, "Happy Birthday," and kissed Jacob.

Then Harry kissed Jacob and then Edward and…

The make out session that had started in the parking lot at the beach was continued once they reached Harry's. Once Jacob's car was parked in the garage next to Harry's, they made their way to the bedroom that they had been sharing.

The three of them sat on the bed in their now dry swimsuits.

They shared passionate kisses. Their tongues exploring the others mouths or caressing the others tongues.

As they kissed hands roamed over taught muscles. Fingers mapping strong backs, broad shoulders, developed pecks and defined abs.

The room was filled with the sounds of pleasure as they moaned into their kisses.

They were either fascinated watching their mates kiss or had their lips locked onto one or both of their mates.

After more than an hour they broke apart from their kissing and groping. The three of them were panting heavily, even Edward who did not actually need to breath.

Harry was looking around anywhere but at his mates as he said, "I…um…yeah."

Harry then reached for his wand that was laying on the nightstand. Pointing his wand at his crotch he cast a cleaning charm.

With a bright red face Harry finally looked at his mates.

Before Harry could say anything Jacob asked, "Um…could you?" Then Jacob waved his hand over his own crotch.

Feeling less self-conscious Harry cast a cleaning charm on Jacob.

Edward was mortified as he mumbled, "Harry I think I need some help with that too."

Harry cast the charm on Edward, then seeing that Edward was upset he said, "Edward don't be ashamed…"

Edward's head snapped up as he said, "I am not ashamed of anything to do with either of you."

Then Harry ran his hand over Edward's arm saying, "Alright, then don't be embarrassed it is perfectly normal."

Edward replied, "I am over a hundred years old. I should have more control."

Jacob ran his hands through Edward's hair as he said, "I like it." Edward looked at him confused and Jacob explained, "You are always so calm, cool and collected. You are Mr. Composure. I like that we excite you enough to lose control."

Shaking his head Edward said, "It is not safe for me to lose control. I could hurt one of you."

Jacob answered, "You could try."

That earned him a smack to the shoulder from Harry. Harry then turned to Edward and said, "You will not hurt us Edward. You just need to believe in yourself as much as we believe in you."

When they finally settled into bed Jacob was laying behind Harry, who was behind Edward. Jacob's arm lay across both of his mates with his hand resting on Edward's chest. With a squeeze of his arm and a kiss to the back of Harry's head, Jacob said, "This is the perfect way to end a birthday."

A/N: I would like to answer a couple of reviews. First, I have not tweaked any of the history mentioned in this story. What I described, including the Sacred Band of Thebes is true. Second, Ron is not happy that Harry got his magic back, because no one has told him. Just for the record Ron in this story is not evil; he is not going to betray Harry. He is just a jerk that goes off on strange tangents, like he did in fourth year.

I would also like to apologize for taking so long to update. This chapter was more of a chore than any I have written. I read the reviews that are posted for my stories. Most of the reviews are encouraging and inspire me to write more. Some have had constructive criticism and questions that I have tried to learn from and address as I wrote new chapters. However, since my last update this story and my first story, The Family Is Complete, have received some scathing reviews. My first story was previously called the worst story ever written. Since my last update I have been informed, between both of my stories, that they are too OOC, inconsistent, under-thought and ridiculous. That kind of sucked the fun out of writing them. And I have seriously considered not posting any additional work. This also left me with a massive writers block. I hope that I am past that now. Thank you for reading and I hope you enjoyed the chapter.

Next Chapter—Harry's Birthday