A LITTLE COMMUNICATION
Revised: August 13th, 2013
When Harry stepped into the common room that night he saw Ginny playing with Sabrina. She looked up when she saw his shadow.
"Oh- I'm sorry Harry. Do you want her?" she asked, holding up the kitten who was chewing on a piece of string.
"Oh no, it's fine. Say, why weren't you at the Quidditch club just now?"
Ginny took a seat on a sofa. "Oh, my boyfriend wanted to spend time with me here."
"Boyfriend?"
"Michael Corner. I probably haven't mentioned him have I? Well it's not as if anyone but Hermione ever asked. But I can come next meeting can't I?"
"Yeah, sure."
Ginny nodded and searched into his eyes, almost as if trying to detect if something was different about him.
"What?" Harry asked.
"Nothing. Well, I did want to ask you about something…"
"Er- go ahead."
"I just wanted to know if you knew the sex of Sirius' baby yet?" she poised, smiling.
"What makes you think I know?" Harry asked a bit more harshly than he would have liked.
Ginny blinked. "I know people find out the sex after four months and I remember you told my brothers and me about it during the holidays and now that it's the end of February it means four months have gone by."
Harry bit his lip. "Look, I don't want to talk about it right now okay?"
"Why not? Do you know?"
"I do."
"Then can you tell me? Just say if it's a boy or a girl and I'll stop bugging you," Ginny said innocently.
"I said I don't want to talk about it. I already regret telling Hermione what it is..." Harry said guiltily, stuffing his hands in his coat pockets.
"Hermione knows?" Ginny said about to get up.
"Hey! Don't go asking her about it now! If she was any kind of girlfriend she wouldn't tell anyone what I told her," Harry said sourly.
"Fine, I won't bug her about it either. But you do know we like to talk right?"
"I told you to not ask her Ginny and I would hope you both would respect the fact I don't want info about the pregnancy going around," Harry hissed.
Ginny almost glared at him. "What is with you lately Harry? All you've been to everyone is moody. If there's anything wrong you can always tell me about it," the redhead offered.
"Um, thanks a lot but I already have that job filled in by Hermione but I'm flattered, really."
"Just because she's your girlfriend doesn't mean you want to tell her everything. Some things are better said between friends." Ginny looked a little hopeful at this.
Harry caught right on and said in a flat voice, "Sorry to disappoint you Ginny but if I can't tell something to Hermione I can't tell it to anyone."
"Oh," she said.
"Right. Um, see you then," Harry said and went to the dorm. He sat on his bed and stared at nothing for a while. As he did this his scar prickled. He suppose it had for a while now but was too focused on everything else to notice it much. Now that he was alone it was really burning. Harry shook his head and turned on his side and lay in this position for a while…
Everything was back to normal Monday. Harry suffered through hours of Divination, History of Magic, Potions and finally Defense against the Dark Arts. The class was now learning simple but effective spells to use against dark wizards. Today they rehearsed how to say the spell and had to spend a boring hour learning the theory and history of the spell. Harry really wanted to stop listening and doodle on the parchment in front of him but he knew Remus wasn't stupid and would know if Harry wasn't paying attention. Harry wasn't the only anxious-looking student in class that evening. He couldn't help but notice the jitters that were causing Hermione to be on the edge of her seat the whole lesson. Harry knew Remus wanted to talk to him at the end of the lesson so after the bell rang he didn't spend any time packing up his bag. He was just about to walk up to his uncle but Hermione got to him first. Harry frowned. What did Hermione have to tell Remus?
Remus looked a bit surprised too but listened as Hermione said something quietly in his ear. He nodded and turned to Harry.
"Um, cub? Could you wait outside the room for a few minutes? Hermione has to tell me something," the werewolf said apologetically.
Harry raised an eyebrow. "Um, okay…" and walked out the room. He leaned against the wall and waited until he was allowed to go back in. Ten minutes slowly passed by and Harry was feeling a bit restless. What on earth were they talking about back there? Just as he was about to place his hand on the doorknob to walk back in Remus stepped out.
"Hey there Harry. We can talk now if you want."
"Sure thing…"
Harry walked in and Hermione hurried up to him looking windswept. "I have to start on that new essay for Snape. See you in the common room soon?"
"Yeah, right," Harry nodded. They shared a quick kiss and Hermione rushed out of the room. Harry turned to Remus. "What was all that about?"
"Oh, nothing."
"No one walks away from their boyfriend and nephew and talks behind their back for ten minutes if it's nothing," Harry challenged.
"Well- if you must know, Hermione was trying to ask me about the O.W.L.s."
"Why should that be a secret?"
"Don't ask me. I guess she's trying to lure you and Ron in a study schedule and didn't want you to find out. She also wanted to know about the book I'm writing. It was nothing secretive," Remus shrugged.
Harry didn't know whether or not Remus was lying. He shook his head and said, "So what did you want to talk to me about?"
"Have a seat. Molly sent me a package of biscuits this morning," Remus said, offering a hand to his desk and an unopened tin of biscuits on the desk.
"Um, sure…" Harry took a seat and waited for Remus to open the tin. Harry bit into a sugar cookie and watched his uncle fix a cup of tea just to his liking. "Thanks," Harry said and sipped it.
"No problem cub. How was everything this weekend? What did I miss out on due to my 'condition'?" Remus said slyly.
"Nothing much. I talked with Madam Pomfrey for a while on her birthday. She told me her sisters are throwing her a late birthday lunch at their father's house so she'll be going there next Saturday. She really liked the picture frame surprisingly. She even showed me the photo she was going to put it in. It's of her and her sisters outside their parents' farm way back before any of them went to Hogwarts. She explained how when the photo was taken, it was one of her best summers ever. She- she was kind of cute when she was little," Harry said turning crimson.
Remus laughed. "She was?"
"No- Forget what I just said!" Harry cried.
"No can do I'm afraid cub. You thought the school nurse was cute as a little girl?"
"Stop it now- I'm warning you!" Harry said whipping out his wand. This only made Remus laugh harder.
"Harry, you can't possibly think you're allowed to use your wand on any adult in this castle correct?" Remus said fairly.
"I know," Harry said heavily and placed his wand back in his pocket.
"So Poppy was a cute little girl?" Remus went on.
"Why can't you forget it, please?" Harry pleaded.
"It's just nice that you think that. I know it's hard for kids to imagine their faculty any younger than how they are. Heck, I still can't begin to imagine how McGonagall must have been when she was younger," Remus shook his head with a small grin.
Harry didn't say anything. He just covered his face with his hands, clearly highly embarrassed still. Remus sipped his tea and looked at him.
"How old was she in the picture Harry?"
Harry sighed and uncovered his face although heat could still been seen emitting from the boy's face as he spoke to his knees. "I dunno. No older than eight. Her hair was- was auburn and wavy and- and there was a-a ribbon in it. You know that little girl look right? They look so carefree and have flowers or bows in their hair or whatever," Harry said still regretting every single syllable that was passing his lips.
"I do. Aw, I'm sorry for embarrassing you there cub, I just found it really sweet that you thought Madam Pomfrey was a cute little girl," Remus said.
"Can't you just- not mention it to me again? Or anyone?" Harry said defiantly.
"Promise. So moving aside the subject of the matron… what else happened this weekend?"
Harry took a large bite out of a fourth sugar cookie and swallowed.
"Hey there cub, ease down on the sweets alright?" Remus said in a firm but gentle manner.
"But they're so good," Harry said thickly around a fifth biscuit.
"I know they are but you haven't even had dinner yet. Maybe I'll save you a few for later but you can't be stuffing your face with biscuits before dinner."
Harry sighed but finished the biscuit and the rest of his tea. "Hey you should be happy I'm eating Moony. I need to gain weight."
"How much do you weigh now?" Remus asked.
Harry thought back to his latest check-up with Poppy. "106-something."
"Well that's good to know."
"Remus, do you know how much I'm supposed to weigh? I know Helena wants me at 110 but how much should someone my size really weigh?"
"Well I'd say a normal slim fifteen-year-old boy who is 5' 6" like you should weigh around 120 lbs. I believe."
"Really? I don't know if I'll ever reach that any time soon. It's taking me this long to get to 110."
"I don't think you need to worry. Everyone is built differently. Some people are meant to have slim frames no matter how much they eat. Your dad was very slim his whole life. Looks like you're meant to be that way too."
"Guess that's good. I don't really have to worry about getting fat." Harry sighed. "So why did you really want me here? Why did you want to talk to me so badly a couple days ago?"
Remus opened his mouth about to answer but shut it. "I just wanted a casual chat is all cub. I know there's been a lot on your plate lately and just wanted to make sure you're feeling okay."
Harry looked at his empty teacup. "I'm okay."
"Then that's all I ask for…"
Harry was happy his chat with his uncle ended well as he skipped off to dinner that night. After a nice helping of Sheppard's Pie Harry went back to the common room to celebrate Ron's birthday with everyone. It wasn't a real party but Fred and George managed to nick some food from the house-elves in the kitchens and firecrackers and luminous balloons littered the top of the common room. Ron was overwhelmed by the generosity of the Gryffindors who weren't his friends. The younger ones gave him sweets as gifts because after the DA they felt like they really knew the infamous trio now. Harry sat back and watched as Ron flipped through the photo book that held the most terrific pictures of the Chudley Cannons ever captured, the gift Harry had gotten him. Once the small crowd died down Harry walked over to Hermione who was busy writing away at a roll of parchment.
"I can't believe you- you're starting an essay for Snape that's not due until next week," Harry commented.
"At least I'm doing it. I know you, you're going to put it off until the night before," Hermione pointed out.
"Oh ye of little faith. I'm getting better at my homework aren't I?" Harry said.
"Only because I force you into it."
"The important thing is I do it. Hey- what did you talk to Remus about earlier?"
Hermione didn't answer right away. "Um, I wanted to know you know- about what he has planned for the O.W.L. in his class. Why?"
"Nothing. I just had to ask you in case he was lying. That's what he said to me too. Why did you have to shoo me out of the room then?"
"I know you. You would shoot me away from him and tell me it was a waste of time."
"Well maybe…"
Hermione was smiling at him but noticed her boyfriend's smile didn't quite reach his eyes. "Um, are you okay Harry?"
"Wow, I need to keep a notebook ready to track down each time someone asks me that," Harry said mimicking writing something down.
Hermione didn't smile. "Are you sure you're feeling okay?"
"I am. Can we not talk about this right now Hermione?"
"Ah, so there is something wrong," Hermione implored.
"Hermione- please? Can we have one night where you aren't concerned about my feelings? Please?" Harry asked his eyes boring into hers.
She looked away. "Harry- don't do that!" she cried.
"Do what?"
"Look at me like that! You know I hate looking at your eyes for too long. I get lost in them…"
Harry grinned and took her away from her work and kissed her. Thankfully Ron was too busy talking to George to notice this or else he would've been a bit angry to see his best friends 'making out' on his own birthday.
Meanwhile, miles and miles away back in London….
Daniel Granger was busy in his kitchen washing the dishes- irritated beyond belief that the dishwasher decided to break down tonight. He jumped and dropped a plate when he heard the sound of something flump onto the ground in the backyard.
"What was that?" his wife Emma cried from upstairs. "Did you break something?"
"Um- it's nothing dear!" Daniel cried even though a white plate lay in shatters on the floor. He turned off the faucet, dried off his hands and opened the sliding door to the backyard, shivering as the rain blew around him. He gasped when he saw something white lying on the wet grass. A moment later he realized what it was. A certain white owl. Daniel looked around as if a wizard was in the yard with him. Finding none he stretched out an arm for the bird to climb on but she didn't.
"Hey there girl, what's wrong?" Daniel asked the owl softly. He frowned. Something about her didn't seem quite right…
Daniel rushed back inside- grabbed a blanket and ran out to the yard again and cautiously wrapped it around the bird and brought her inside the house just as Emma was walking down the stairs.
"Danny, what is that?" Emma asked rushing forward.
"I- I think its Hedwig," he answered.
"What on earth-? (gasp) there's- there's blood!" she pointed out, covering her mouth.
Daniel set Hedwig down on the kitchen counter and studied her. She was hooting dolefully… there was blood coming from under her wing.
"Are you sure it's her?" Emma asked.
"I'm certain. I can defiantly recognize Harry's owl. Hey- could you detach the letters on her leg?"
Emma nodded, tears in her eyes as she carefully undid the sodden parchment tied to her leg. "One is for us from Harry, another from Hermione and one for Helena," she said reading the names on each letter.
"Helena? She's Harry's doctor isn't she?" Daniel asked.
Emma nodded. "What should we do Danny? Hedwig's hurt."
"Um- I'll try and contact Sirius or Remus. Just make sure she doesn't fly off or anything. Keep her still. I don't know what else there is to do."
"But Dan- Remus is working at Hogwarts again remember? The only person to reach is Sirius."
"Damn. Right, I'll try and call him…" Daniel hurried over to the phone and dialed the number for the Black and Lupin house. He tapped his foot impatiently, waiting for someone to pick it up. When he heard a man's voice on the other end he let out a relieved sigh. "Sirius?"
"Daniel?" the man asked.
"Yes- something urgent just happened over here."
"Really? Like what? Is anyone there?" Sirius panicked.
"No- no one's here. It's something else. Harry's owl is here."
"Oh? Did Harry write to you then?" Sirius asked trying to sound happy although he hadn't spoken to his godson for a while it seemed.
"Yes but that's not the problem. You see- I think his owl is hurt," Daniel said impatiently.
"What? She's hurt?" Sirius gasped.
"Yes- there's blood under her wing. I don't know if somebody shot her or if it was done by magic but she's hurt."
Sirius was just about to answer when the fire grate in the sitting room flared and Mad-Eye Moody's head popped out. "Sirius- something urgent just happened. The Order is required to meet at Headquarters right away- Dumbledore's orders!" he said gruffly.
Sirius wondered if this had to do with Hedwig or not. "I- I'll be there right away Mad-Eye." He then turned to the phone. "Um, listen Daniel, there's an important meeting that just cropped up with the headmaster- I have to go. Um- damn…okay; just keep Hedwig calm for now. I'm going to alert some people about what just happened as soon as I arrive at the meeting. Someone should be there soon all right?" he said quickly.
"Um, okay, if your sure," Daniel said, frowning as Hedwig hooted mournfully in Emma's arms.
Sirius hung up and Apparated off to Headquarters'. Daniel turned to Emma who looked very worried.
"Sirius told me something just happened and he has a meeting with the headmaster right now. He told me someone should come along for Hedwig soon but for now we have to wait."
Emma nodded, tears still in her eyes. "I doubt she flew all the way from Hogwarts to our house with this injury. She must have received it not long ago."
"Well Harry did say she is a very committed owl, Hermione told us that too, aren't you girl?" Daniel said, stroking the silky smooth head of the owl. Hedwig nipped him lightly. "Well? Should we read what the kids wrote us until someone shows up?"
Emma nodded.
"This time I get to read Harry's letter," Daniel said cheekily.
"Fine- I'm going to read Hermione's."
"Fine by me. Who should be first? I- oh- what's this?" gasped Daniel when something fell out of the letter of Harry's and onto the floor. He bent down to pick it up. He beamed at what he saw.
"What is it?" Emma asked.
"Look- it's a picture of Harry and Hermione's midnight kiss! Just like he promised us! And it's a wizard photograph too!"
Emma tore the photo out of her husband's hands and smiled. Harry and Hermione were shown grabbing each other and kissing as soon as it hit midnight then after several long seconds unlock their lips from each other to beam and wave up at them then went back to kissing.
"Aww, this is so sweet. We have to get a frame!" Emma said excitedly.
"I know, we'll put it in the practice for everyone to see. A lot of people are asking about our daughter's mystery boyfriend," Daniel said candidly, filling a bowl of water for Hedwig to lap up.
"We can't do that Daniel! This is a wizard photograph. It moves!"
"We could just say it's a video," Daniel shrugged as he helped Hedwig to the water.
"A framed video? I wonder about you sometimes Dan, I really do," Emma said shaking her head.
Daniel smiled at his wife before she began the letter from their daughter.
"'Dear Mum and Dad,
How are you? I suppose you can say a lot has been happening around me. Let me start by saying this: poor Harry seems to be going through so much lately and I don't know half of it. I know I shouldn't pester him; in fact it would be a good thing if I didn't. He doesn't like people coddling him for long. But it's hard not to, he's such an easy person to worry over! Yesterday was pretty interesting… you remember Helena from the Christmas party at Harry's godfather's house? Well you remember that she's pregnant with Sirius' child right? Anyway, Sirius contacted Harry about it last night and turns out he told him the sex of the baby. Sirius told him it's going to be a boy. I don't think it would be right to tell you everything else about that night but after I came back from my detention with Professor McGonagall he told me all about it. He seems really upset by it, I wish I could comfort him somehow but I don't know how. He does have some really good days- he's not always bummed out but lately he has been. Plus- now that he knows the sex of the baby I feel it really put a damper on everything. I just hope he listens to reason from everyone around him about this so he'll be happy again.
Moving from this issue- let me tell you all about Valentine's Day! I'll sum it up in one word: wonderful! In the morning I went with Harry to Remus' classroom where we Sirius and Helena were at and we all exchanged our Valentine gifts. Guess what? Sirius and Remus gave Harry a new kitten! She is adorable! She's a little rag doll kitten and Harry's going to call her Sabrina."
"Harry has another kitten? For Valentine's Day? Wow- that must've cost a lot," Daniel commented, still holding onto Hedwig.
"I know. Let me continue though," Emma said.
"Sorry."
"They told Harry to sit down and shut his eyes and he jumped when he felt something fuzzy drop in his hand. Harry has been really into cats lately- I find it so sweet! She even has a bow around her neck! Enough about her though. The fourteenth was a bit rough in some spots but terrific overall. We walked around the village- Hogsmeade and went in a few shops and had a lot of fun. We tried on these really elaborate robes in a robe shop. It was silly good fun. (By the way- Harry looks so good in deep red velvet!)"
Daniel let out a roar of laughter. "My goodness Hermione- don't tell us that!"
"She's just being a normal teenage girl Danny," Emma scolded.
"I know. Continue."
"'After that we shopped for a bit (Harry had to load up on sweets at the candy shop but he did buy me some peppermint toads so I guess it was okay) we went out for lunch. That was when things got very awkward. A nosy reporter was trying to interview Harry but I stepped in- as did Remus and Sirius. (We had plans to have lunch with them) and she went off, very affronted. I happily chatted with Helena for a while but Harry was looking very unhappy. He never spoke to Sirius and picked at his chicken sandwich. He hurriedly said good-bye to his godfather and Helena then insisted we get away from them. I didn't bother him about what just happened, he was trying so hard to please me all day. So we went to have coffee and finally headed back to school where things really got surprising….
After dinner Ron's' twin brothers- Fred and George called everyone down into the common room. Harry came down from the door- poppy-red in the face and clutching a paper. I had no idea what was going on until Harry turned to me and said he was going to recite a poem he wrote for me in front of everyone!"
"He did what?" Daniel gasped.
"Oh how sweet!" Emma beamed.
"She's picked a good one I tell you," Daniel nodded.
"I know. Let me continue though! 'Harry was dead nervous when he began but built confidence as he read on. It was called 'As.' I don't know what else there is to tell you right now. I'm really looking forward to my last day of detention. It's on the twenty-ninth. Five days seems so long from now! I still hope you know my reasons for doing what I did that landed me in a month-long detention. I was trying to do things for the greater good but got carried away I suppose. I think that wraps up everything. Harry misses you! Oh- and he's been so much healthier lately! His last check-up the nurse told him he was gaining weight steadily and hasn't had to have blood tested for anything since the holidays. I'm really proud of him. I don't know if he's going to write to you personally soon or not. He has been busy after all… miss you and can't wait for the summer! Crookshanks misses you too!
Lots of love,
Hermione,'" Emma concluded.
Daniel was just about to say something when he heard a knock on the door. He gave his wife Hedwig and went to answer it. He opened the door to find a young woman with violent violet hair spiked up, dressed in a heavy coat.
"May I help you?" Daniel asked uncertainly.
"I'm Tonks. I'm here to pick up Harry's owl and take her over to get looked at," the woman answered.
"Oh! Come this way, so sorry," Daniel gasped and allowed her in.
Tonks hurried over to the owl that was bleeding in the blanket Emma had her in. "So she just arrived like this?"
"Yes. I was washing the dishes when I heard something fall outside. I went in the yard and found her there bleeding. I recognized her as Harry's owl and brought her in. Is she going to be all right?" Daniel asked looking concerned.
"Well I can't cure animals Mr. Granger but I do know someone who can. I'm going to bring Hedwig over to him. Thanks a lot- didn't mean to intrude or anything," Tonks said trying to look happy.
"Yeah. Sirius told me something happened. Is everyone okay?" Daniel asked the witch who carefully placed the injured owl in a cage.
"Well so far, yes. If anything happens we'll let you know, don't worry. Thanks again Mr. Granger."
"Wait! She arrived with a letter for Helena Delmhar. Here," Daniel said, handing over the damp envelope.
"I'll be sure to give it to her. Good-bye Mr. Granger, Mrs. Granger." With that Tonks spun on the spot and disappeared- causing both Muggles to jump.
"Wasn't expecting that…" Emma said.
"I know. Um, well let's go to Harry's letter. See if there's anything there to lighten the mood."
"I hope so. Hermione did say he seemed so down in the dumps lately…"
Daniel opened the sodden letter from Harry-
"'Dear Daniel and Emma,
How are you? I know I never wrote back from your letter back in January was it? I've been busy. Luckily today I got the urge to write a couple letters to some people so I wrote to you! Let's see…what has happened around me lately? Wait- that's rude. Let me ask how you two are doing first. How has your practice been going on? Have you been teaching at the collage like you told me you sometimes do in your last letter to me? How has that been? Are you teaching a lot of dentist-hopefuls? Can't see why anyone would want to do that- kidding! Kidding!"
"Oh he's so funny," commented Emma rolling her eyes and smiling.
"Hey, the kid does have a good sense of humor."
"Dan- the letter?"
"Right! Okay- 'But really, it's cool to know people are willing to help others with such an interesting and difficult field. How are things in the world of cricket and football Daniel? Hope your teams are doing great! I know you love to read and cook Emma. Have you made anything new lately? I don't know if I can recommend any good books I'm afraid. All the ones I have were written by wizards. Unless you'd like to give it a read… Before I go to that I want to head into the real reason why I'm writing to you. Truth is- I just want to thank you for all you have done for me,'" Daniel said slowly.
"What have we done for him?" Emma asked in confusion.
"I don't know. Allowed him to spend the night? Let's see. 'Okay- what I mean to say is I feel healthy. I thought about how awful I was in the summer last year and realized I came a long way from that. I am healthier than I ever was in all my life!
A lot of that is because you two have helped fix my teeth for me. There's still work to be done but so far, I look and feel a lot better than how they were. Tell your assistants too that I say thanks. Everyone there has been great at getting me to feel relaxed since I haven't ever been to the dentist since last summer. Wow- this letter is getting really long now. I still haven't eaten breakfast yet! Hermione's bugging me about it now. I'll write another note soon to tell you everything that's new in my life. Anyway- hope to hear from you soon then. Send your letter back with Hedwig.
Best of thoughts,
Harry
P.S. I enclosed a picture of Hermione and me kissing during your New Year's Eve party. Doesn't she look gorgeous? Find a good place for it! Thanks,'" Daniel concluded.
Emma looked very grateful after reading the letter. "That was very sweet of him to do. He's written before but this time he thanked us."
"Can't recall that happening much," Daniel shook his head.
"I'm glad we were able to help him then, and can continue to do so."
Daniel nodded, arm around his wife.
Back at Hogwarts
Harry was walking down to the Gryffindor table on Tuesday for breakfast. One look of his friends' faces however made him freeze.
"What is it?" Harry asked, sitting next to Hermione.
"This- look," she said and thrust a copy of the Daily Prophet under his nose.
Harry scanned the paper and gasped. It read: MASSIVE BREAKOUT IN AZKABAN! And boasted pictures and captions of the several Death Eaters who had escaped. Harry bit his lip and turned back to Ron and Hermione.
"How can this be though? If it happened yesterday then we would've known already," he trailed then looked over at the staff table. Remus was frowning but caught Harry's eye. He gave him a look that clearly stated 'I need to tell you something' so Harry went back to the paper. He tried not to look too upset about this, it would do no good. He however couldn't miss the fear that was on Neville's face. Harry knew why, the Death Eater Bellatrix Lestrange was responsible for torturing Neville's parents. Her maniacal face was shown in the center of the front page of the Prophet. Harry finished up his cereal and after all the students filed out of the Great Hall to begin today's lessons Remus walked up to where Harry, Ron and Hermione were still sitting.
"I have to tell you something cub," Remus said looking upset.
"What? No one died or anything have they?" Harry couldn't help but say.
The corner of Remus' lips pulled into a small smile. "No, no one died Harry. See, last night Hedwig reached your parents' house Hermione," Remus said turning to her then went back to Harry.
"Oh good! They finally got my letter," Harry said brightly but stopped smiling immediately. "Wait, that's not a good thing if you're telling it to me like that. What happened?"
"Well Daniel found Hedwig outside last night, injured. He said he saw her out of the corner of his eye flop down in the yard."
All three teenagers gasped.
"What happened to her?" Harry demanded.
"That's what we're trying to figure out still cub. We have suspicions though… an urgent meeting was called last night. I'm sure you would know why," Remus said significantly, his eyes trailing to the Daily Prophet.
Harry nodded, fear evident in his eyes. "I don't care about that right now. How's Hedwig? What happened to her?"
"She's going to be fine Harry. Daniel and Emma looked after her until someone could come by and pick her up. Tonks came by to take Hedwig to Headquarters. There Hagrid looked her over and concluded that she was hit with some sort of spell or curse but we don't know what yet."
"Then how do you know if she's okay? You can't conclude if someone is okay if they were hit with an unknown spell or something!" Harry shot at him.
"Harry, calm down, please. Listen, I can't say much now. You three and myself have classes to head to. We can talk during lunch," Remus said trying to calm Harry down.
"I don't care about that right now. What happened to her?" Harry asked again.
"I already told you we don't know yet."
"Is she with Hagrid?" Harry asked across him.
Remus rubbed his eyes. "You have to head to Herbology Harry. I'm not going to tell you anything else right now."
"She's my owl Remus! If you don't tell me where she is I'm heading down to Hagrid's right now," Harry pointed out.
"Fine. Yes, she's with Hagrid. But don't go to him just yet Harry! You have classes to attend to. Good day," Remus said and nodded at each child and left for the Defense classroom.
Harry stood there, his fists clenched.
"Harry, we have to go," Hermione said softly, lightly touching his shoulder.
Harry shook his head and nodded. "Yeah, I know. Let's go…"
Hermione took his hand as they walked with Ron to the greenhouses. She knew whenever someone held his hand he immediately relaxed. After lunch all students had a half hour break which was more than enough for Harry. As soon as he finished up his chicken salad he scampered off to Hagrid's hut, Ron and Hermione at his heels. Hagrid didn't look surprised when he saw his favorite three students running down the sloping hill outside the castle by his hut. He smiled in a satisfied way when they reached him.
"How is she?" Harry asked, out of breath as soon as he was close enough for Hagrid to hear him.
Hagrid chuckled. "Ya worry too much Harry. She's fine."
"But Remus said"-
"Ar, he's righ', he along with a few other people are still tryin' to detect the spell Hedwig was hit with bu' I know she's gonna be fine. Commin, commin, I'm sure she'll be 'appy to see ya Harry," Hagrid said and opened his door.
Harry looked at his two friends and walked inside. Hagrid showed Harry to where Hedwig was lying. She was tucked inside a few blankets and was lying on her stomach on Hagrid's giant table. She looked okay to Harry who went up and gently stroked her beak. She nipped his finger lazily to show him she would be fine.
"Where was she hurt exactly?" Hermione asked anxiously.
"Well there was a lotta blood under her left win'. I was able to stop the bleedin' and heal a portion of it. Remus is workin' with a few other people to find ou' wha' exactly attacked her."
"Are you sure it was a spell?" Ron asked.
Hagrid nodded. "Tha's why I can't heal it up righ'. There's some magic in there tha' I'm not allowed to examine. Professor Grubbly-Plank's comin' later as well. She'll be able to find out wha' happened."
"But you'll be able to heal her right?" Harry asked eyes wide in panic.
"Don' worry Harry. She's in good hands."
"Remus told me he had a shroud suspicion on what happened to her. Do you know anything about that?" Harry asked, still stroking Hedwig.
"Well I can't go tellin' you three abou' that!" Hagrid said abruptly. "Its secret stuff tha' is."
"We know it's the Order Hagrid," Harry said fairly.
"Shhh!" Hagrid said, putting a giant finger to his lips. "You can't go sayin' that around here Harry!"
"The Order isn't a huge secret anymore Hagrid. A lot of others know about it. C'mon, tell me what it is," Harry said now turning to him.
Hagrid gave a deep sigh. "The Order reckins one of You-Know-Who's people attacked her."
"What?" Harry cried.
"Calm down Harry," Hagrid said.
"They think a Death Eater attacked Hedwig? How could that be?"
"It all hasta do with the breakout Harry. They reckin someone hit it off to one of the Death Eaters abou' your owl so the firs' person who saw her flyin' would send up a spell to her to stop communication between ya and others," Hagrid said gruffly.
Harry was fuming. Hermione saw how angry Harry was turning and hastily placed a hand on his shoulder. "She's going to be okay Harry. Don't get worked up on this."
"But Hermione"-
"Harry, please?" Hermione insisted.
Harry sighed but nodded. "Fine. Sorry."
Hermione smiled. "It's okay."
Hagrid then leapt to his feet. "Ar- its time ta head back to class ya three. Can' go runnin' to class late can ya? C'mon, c'mon…"
"Right, thanks again for looking after her Hagrid."
Hagrid nodded and the three teenagers hurried off to Transfiguration. The rest of the week passed by slowly. The only plus side that came on Friday was the arrival of a few letters for Harry and Hermione. After lunch Remus hand-gave the both of them the letters which confused them greatly.
"Why weren't they sent by owl?" Hurry asked his uncle.
"There weren't any owls to deliver them," he said wisely.
Harry was just about to ask what he meant but looked at an envelope in his hand and saw that it read To Harry Potter in Daniel Granger's handwriting.
"Thanks!" Harry said to him and shoved the letters in his bag to read them later. After their last lesson of the day (Charms) the trio hurried off to the common room as usual to read their letters (at least Harry and Hermione).
"We don't have to read it out loud if you don't want to. I know it might be personal, your letter. It's from your parents after all," Harry told Hermione.
"Okay but I'll tell you anything that isn't personal."
Harry nodded and the both of them tore open their letters. Ron sat in a chair and watched them read feeling a bit jealous. He wanted to know what was so great about Hermione's parents. What did he do that qualified the Grangers to send Harry news? He watched as Harry happily read his letter and he and Hermione laughed when they both looked up at the same time signaling they were finished.
"Either your letter was really short or I'm just becoming a better reader," Harry observed.
"Nonsense. I think my letter was short," Hermione scoffed.
"You don't want your own boyfriend to have a higher reading level? Hermione, I read at a fifth-grade level," Harry pointed out.
"No you don't, you're fifteen Harry," Hermione said.
"So? You know I don't know anything the normal fifteen-year-old my age does. I might've picked up a few things along the years from you and the adults around me but I'm still a fifth-grader in grammar and mathematic wise," Harry said.
Hermione sighed. "Hmm, you have a point."
"Will you stop arguing over something so pointless?" Ron cut in.
Harry and Hermione looked at him, shocked. "What are you talking about?" Hermione asked.
"Well, you're fighting," Ron said surprised.
"No we aren't. We're playfully arguing over a very small topic," Hermione said and smiled at Harry.
"Yeah. I was trying to be right for once," Harry joked.
Hermione hit his arm.
"Ow!" Harry cried. "Why are you always hitting me?"
"To show your incompetence," Hermione said simply.
"My what?"
Hermione looked at him, eyebrows raised. "Never mind."
Ron rolled his eyes.
"What's your problem?" Harry shot at him.
"Hey! I didn't say anything!"
"You keep rolling your eyes and look irritated. What is it?" Harry demanded.
"Um, well…" Ron said looking uncomfortable. "I just have a question Harry…"
"Shoot," Harry said crossing his arms.
"Um, well…I was just wondering- why did Hermione's parents send you a letter?"
Harry raised an eyebrow. "Because my family is friends with them. They're family friends now."
"Really? But- why?"
Harry shrugged. "I guess you could say it's something that should've happened a long time ago. I mean, they are our best friend's parents. Why not hang out with them?"
"But- they're Muggles. I'm not trying to say anything against Muggles but I find it a bit odd for them to be in such close contact with you and everything…" Ron said his eyes growing bright red now.
"They're more than just Muggles, dentists, and Hermione's parents Ron. They've invited my guardians and me over in the Christmas holiday and everything. They're happy I'm dating Hermione and basically- her dad is really cool." It was Harry's turn to go a bit scarlet now.
Hermione turned to him. "Really? You really think my dad is cool Harry?"
"Well, yeah. I find it pretty cool that your parents have such demanding jobs but aside from that they're really normal and everything."
Hermione giggled. "I can't wait to tell him that."
"But- it still doesn't make any sense. I really don't know why her parents have to send you a letter. Couldn't they just add a little something in the letter to Hermione?" Ron asked still looking confused.
"You're on pretty thin ice again Ron," Harry said dangerously. "So what if her parents want to write to me? I write to them."
Ron looked taken aback. "You do?"
"I do. I guess I really warmed up to Hermione's mum and dad last summer."
Ron got to his feet. "I need to finish up my essay for McGonagall…" and he went up to the dorm out of sight.
"What was that about?" Hermione asked, looking up.
Harry shook his head. "No clue. How can he not expect me to be friendly with your parents? Once you start dating it's a good rule of thumb to like that person's parents. Makes things easier I guess."
"Still…"
"Let's go back to our letters okay? Um, want me to read mine to you?" Harry hastily said.
Hermione searched through his eyes for a second but nodded, all suspicions forgotten.
"Right. Here I go.
Dear Harry,
Let me first say thank-you for the photo you sent. Emma and I agree you two look remarkable! I wanted to frame it and put it in our practice but Emma shot it down straight away. She doesn't like the idea of our patients seeing a moving photograph. We decided to frame another photo of you and Hermione instead. A lot of people keep asking about our daughter's mystery boyfriend. Emma thinks the one with you and Hermione standing by the Thymes River (the one that you're actually giving a genuine big smile from that day Harry) should be shown instead. I suppose I have to agree,'" Harry began.
Hermione smiled. "That is a good photo. I agree, it would look good in their practice."
"Hermione?"
"Huh? Oh yeah! Continue."
"' it's what us men have to get accustomed to. Enjoy being unmarried while you can Harry. If Hermione is anything like her mother she will be taking over your house for sure,"' Harry said with amusement.
Hermione scoffed. "I am not like my mother like that! I'll allow you some reign in our house when we get married Harry."
"Why thank-you. 'Aside from that, I don't think there is much news on my end. I told Hermione our dishwasher broke but you don't need to hear that. Oh! I almost forgot for some stupid reason….I'm pretty sure by now you know your owl landed in our backyard on Monday night don't you Harry? She looked pretty injured to me. There wasn't much Emma or I could do about it but wait for someone on your end to take her. A woman called Tonks arrived not too long after and took her somewhere where she said Hedwig will be looked at. I hope she's doing okay now. Please tell me any information about her if you can Harry. I've been pretty busy lately so I haven't caught up with much cricket or football news. Emma and I are going to visit my brother Lee this weekend so I'm sure I'll get caught up with the latest whilst I'm there. I know I keep going on about myself right now but Emma isn't around. She's actually with a friend at a shop to buy new carpet in our practice right now. A kid left a huge stain on it a few weeks ago that we just can't seem to get rid of. Plus we've had the same carpet for almost ten years, it's time for it to be updated,'" Harry read.
"It's about time too," Hermione snapped causing Harry to jump. "Sorry. Dad told me that too in my letter. I've been nagging at them to change that old carpet forever. I found a huge mess on the carpet where that one fern is by the fish tank."
Harry smiled. "Well now you have nothing to worry about 'Mione."
"Oh I bet you anything they're going to get the same exact shade of blue. Mum never wants things to change I swear. She loves anything original."
"Hmm… well let me finish the letter.
' again, I know you don't really care Harry but that's what she's doing right now. She's going to get angry at me that I wrote to you without her present but she can write the next one. Don't worry, there hasn't been another kid who replaced you as my favorite patient Harry.' oh good," Harry said brightly.
Hermione rolled her eyes but smiled.
"' …and I'm not just saying that because you're dating my daughter, you really are terrific whenever I see you in my chair Harry. LLet me get into the real reason you wrote to us now. Emma and myself want to give you tremendous thanks for what you said Harry. Yes I'm thanking you for thanking me, funny isn't it? Us doctors don't get much praise for what we do. We just put our patients in pain and discomfort and even though they are a hundred times better off then when we last saw them they don't seem too thankful. I'm not saying every person is like that. I do have a few people who have thanked me for what I did to them but it's been a while. To hear it coming from a teenage boy that had never been to the dentist last year is amazing to hear. I just hope you're doing your part too. I hope you've been flossing and I'm half-joking,'" Harry trailed, looking guilty.
Hermione raised an eyebrow at him.
"Um, I forget," Harry tried to tell her.
"Hey, I'm not about to peck at you like a mother hen for not flossing Harry. I'm just going to tell you to do what you want to do and nothing more," Hermione said, putting her hands up as if in surrender.
Harry didn't say anything but went back to his letter. "'…because I'm not here to chide you. Hermione can do that instead.'"
"Hey!" she cried.
Harry chuckled. "'Thank-you again for being so grateful for all that we did for you. You're a terrific kid. Emma will write back to you as soon as she comes home although I don't know if that's possible. Your godfather is coming by to pick up the letters I wrote to you and Hermione very soon so he can give them to your uncle. I'll see you when you step off the train for the summer holiday then! Oh! And before I forget- I told Jennifer and Hailey that you thanked them. They were really touched and agree with me on how corporative and patient you are.
Love from your dentists,
Daniel and Emma,'" Harry finished.
Hermione smiled. "Aw, that was a nice letter."
"Is yours any different?" Harry asked.
"Well of course it is. I'm their daughter. I think they have different things to say to me."
"Right, I knew that," Harry said sheepishly.
Harry allowed Hermione to read a few things from her letter that she thought he should hear. After that they both decided it was time to start on their pile of homework. Well, Harry was the owner of a pile, not Hermione. Ron didn't come down any time later, not like Harry was expecting him to however Ron looked a bit uneasy while Harry walked up to the dorm to get ready for bed. Ron watched his short friend fish out green colored pajamas from his trunk and begin to change.
"What?" Harry asked him as he took off his socks.
"Um, I- I just wanted to apologize for what I did back there," Ron said face set with anticipation.
Harry didn't answer straight away. Instead he threw his socks in his hamper by the bed which boasted all his dirty clothes.
"Um, Harry? Did- did you hear me?" Ron asked.
"I heard you."
"Okay. Well? Do you forgive me?"
Harry cocked an eyebrow. "You really did act like an idiot earlier you know."
"I know I did. I don't know what my problem was."
"You didn't like the fact that I told you I'm close with the Granges," Harry said easily.
"Right…"
Harry sighed and rolled his eyes. "Look- what's the big deal anyway? So what if I'm friends with them? Is it that horrible?"
"It's just weird. They're adults."
"So? Hagrid's an adult and we're friends with him. Who cares?"
"But- you know, you're a wizard. I can imagine some of the things you've told them about our world and it's probably shocking. I'm sure they're nice people but, like you said, we never got around to knowing them in the past," Ron shrugged.
"I've been living a Muggle life my whole life Ron and sometimes I feel more comfortable doing certain things that way than doing it the wizard way. I appreciate hard work and labor because I've been doing such things since I was three. It's great to talk to good normal Muggles for once. Her dad really loves hearing about our world. He's kind of like the Muggle version of your dad," Harry grinned.
Ron had to smile back, although weakly.
Harry buttoned up his pajama top. "Listen, why don't you come to her house with us during the summer? They have a pool. And you can get to know her parents in a less-formal way."
"I dunno Harry, it's different with me. I'm just her friend now," Ron shrugged.
"You've always been her friend Ron. C'mon, Hermione's parents are nice people. I'm sure they wouldn't mind it if you came over."
"That's the thing; Hermione invited you during the summer, not me. It's clear she doesn't want me over," Ron deflated.
Harry bit his lip. "Well there's a phone in my house. How was she supposed to contact you if you don't have a phone? She can't floo you know and doesn't always have access to an owl."
Ron frowned. "She'd find a way."
"I know she would love to have you over this summer," Harry said heavily. "Right, I'm going to brush my teeth now…" Harry said and jerked a thumb to the bathroom.
"Um, yeah…"
Harry looked at the red head for a moment then turned away and went to the bathroom. Harry gave him another look as well before he pulled his curtains over his bed and went to sleep after he came back from the bathroom. (Completely forgetting to empty his mind of all emotion like Snape so often instructed). He was plunged into a deep dream that night.
He was again walking down a dark corridor and stopped in front of a door. He cautiously gripped the doorknob and- it opened! He was just about to look around when he heard a loud snore. Harry jerked away and swore to himself softly. If only Neville had kept in that snore for one more minute. He was so close to finally finding out more about that corridor! Harry turned to his side and watched Sabrina snooze on one of his pillows.
"Hey Sabby," Harry whispered to her and stroked her head. She blinked her eyes awake and looked at him. She mewed and stretched then crawled over to his face and rubbed against his chin. "Hey, keep doin' that, it feels good…" Harry said lazily and the sounds of her purrs soon drifted him back to sleep, this time dreaming about being a character of his favorite TV show The Simpsons who saved Springfield of giant ice cream cones….
Harry took advantage of his free day when it appeared. He spent the morning having breakfast and talking with Poppy before he went to get Remus' birthday present set up. He knew it wasn't until a few more days but he had to do something on his free time. He barrowed a blue sheet of paper from Hermione and fashioned his uncle a card then wrapped up his gift. So far Ron hadn't brought up the discussion they had last night up again. Harry could care less; it was a stupid thing to argue about in the first place. Ron just went around with Harry and asked about the Quidditch Club. Harry told him another meeting was going to be held after dinner that night and Ron happily went off to get prepared (he had a heated discussion with a fourth-year Hufflepuff about the Chudley Cannons last time).
That night was spent with going over everything Quidditch. When Harry got back to the common room he and Hermione stayed behind as usual until everyone had gone up to bed. That's when Harry dozed off and again dreamt of that strange corridor…he was so close to finding out what laid beyond. He was then rudely awakened by a poke in the face.
"Ow! What?" Harry cried and turned to Hermione, straitening up his glasses.
Hermione didn't say anything but looked down. Harry followed her eyes and jumped; Dobby the house-elf was standing there with Hedwig perched on top his many hats.
"Hedwig!" Harry gasped. She flew off the hats and landed gracefully on her master's outstretched arm. "Hey there girl…" Harry said and stroking her beak.
"Hagrid is telling Dobby your owl is all better now sir!" Dobby cried happily.
"Thank-you Dobby," Harry said gratefully. "Do you know if Hagrid told you anything else?"
"Hagrid is telling Dobby that Harry Potter is to talk to his uncle tomorrow morning. He knows everything sir," the elf said earnestly.
"Thanks again," Harry said.
"You is very welcome Harry Potter sir! Can Dobby get sir and his 'Mione anything?" the elf asked.
Harry chuckled. "That's not necessary Dobby. It's pretty late."
Dobby nodded. "I agree. It looks to Dobby that Master Harry needs a good-night's sleep. Harry Potter was twitching in his sleep. Dobby wonders if Mr. Harry Potter is all right?"
"I'm fine Dobby, really. Like you said, I need some sleep. Thanks again."
Dobby nodded and disappeared. Hermione scooted closer to her boyfriend to pet his owl. "She looks pretty okay to me," she commented.
"Yeah. I hope it wasn't too horrible, whatever happened to her."
After breakfast the next day Harry went over to see Remus in his office.
"I guess you know how Hedwig was injured then?" Harry asked his uncle.
Remus set aside some papers on his desk and nodded. "Our suspicions were correct. A Death Eater was indeed tracking Hedwig's flight. We suppose someone slipped to them how Harry Potter's owl looks like so they could bring her down. She was hit with a mild wound-causing curse. There are several curses out there that cause certain wounds. This one created a deep gash under her wing. It wasn't anything serious but I am surprised she flew all the way to the Grangers with that wound."
"How come if it wasn't serious?" Harry asked.
"Well we found out where this Death Eater struck her and it was around one hundred miles from the Grangers. That's a pretty far way to be flying with an injury."
"Who did it?"
Remus sighed. "McNair. It happened right after the escape from Azkaban. I'm sorry Harry…"
"It doesn't matter. Hedwig's fine now isn't she? That's all that matters," Harry passed off.
Remus surveyed Harry for a moment and nodded. "I suppose you're right."
The next few days passed by quickly for Harry. He was working with a few people to throw a small party for Remus' birthday that was on the tenth. He reluctantly contacted his godfather via mirror but just couldn't look at him for too long and told him he had to go. Hermione picked up the mirror that Harry gave her and she filled Sirius in herself. A few close friends were planning to floo to Hogwarts after dinner on the tenth. Harry told them all the time he usually saw his uncle head back to his classroom so they all had to be there before then. That night Remus was walking up to his classroom to get tomorrow's lessons in order when he opened the door to his dark classroom and jumped when it was filled with light and a loud, "Surprise!" rang in the room.
"I- I thought you all forgot," Remus gasped, smiling as he looked about the room. The regular Weasleys were there as was Sirius, Harry, Ron, Hermione, Tonks and Mad-Eye.
"Aw, we could never forget about you old friend!" Sirius cried and slumped an arm over his friend's shoulder. "Happy thirty-six!"
"Gee, thanks. I'm the only person in here who's older than he looks," Remus grumbled.
"Sorry I threw it in your classroom Moony. I didn't know where else to do it," Harry said to Remus.
"It's fine cub. Wait- you did this for me?"
Harry nodded. "I had to do something for you, you're like my father now."
This caught several people's attention; Harry had never called Remus his father before.
"I- I- what?" Remus stammered.
The people turned away and began chatting to each other like nothing happened.
"You're my father Remus. I know I never told you that before and I honestly don't know why because it's been the truth for a long time."
"But Harry, I'm not that fatherly am I?" Remus said quietly.
"You are!" Harry insisted. "You care for me, I live with you, you're kind and firm at the same time. You know your stuff, I can go to you for advice…"
Sirius' ears perked up. He sincerely hoped his godson wasn't saying this for any reason. Sirius sat in the corner of the room- not too far from these two to listen, clutching a butterbeer.
"I'm your uncles yes, but Sirius is more of a father than I'll ever be," Remus tried to say.
"No he isn't, just because the word godfather has the word 'father' in it doesn't make him more or less of one," Harry explained.
"Harry, don't say that, please," Remus said.
"But"-
"Listen; let's not talk about this right now okay? It's my birthday after all."
"Fine," Harry said shortly and went off to talk with Tonks.
The celebration didn't last too long, it was a weekday after all and everyone either had school or jobs to get rested up for. It seemed as if Sirius wanted to head back home as soon as he could. He was getting pretty fed up at how Harry was treating him. He didn't care what the reason was he had no right to bluntly ignore him the way that he was. Sirius bade everyone good-bye and headed back home where he met up with Helena.
"Well you left there pretty quickly," Helena commented after he set down his coat in the living room.
"I'm sorry," Sirius said.
"What's wrong? This is your best friend's birthday; I thought you'd be staying for a while."
"I know but….I dunno, I just had to leave," Sirius said and rubbed the back of his neck.
"How come might I ask?"
Sirius looked at his girlfriend and sighed, rubbing a hand over her small protruding belly that now held his son. He let go and pulled her close.
"What was that for?" Helena asked.
"I don't know, just wanted to hug you."
"That's sweet," she smiled.
"Um, I don't know if it was just me but Harry seemed to be a bit distant again," Sirius asked carefully.
"Oh not this again Sirius," Helena said rolling her eyes.
"What?"
"Every day you bring Harry up. I love him, I really do but I don't like the fact that you keep bringing him up. You bring him up and when I acknowledge that I want to talk about him too you change the subject. Do you or do you not want to talk about Harry?"
"I- I don't know Hella… I just want to know I'm not the only one who notices how much of a brat he's being," Sirius said crossly.
Helena sighed and sat down. "I don't think Harry's being a brat Sirius. He's not even around you every day. You have no idea how he's acting around other adults and his friends and classmates. It's a bit rich to call him a brat when he's not in your presence," the woman said fairly.
"Yeah but he was being one tonight!" Sirius argued.
"Really?" Helena said, surprised.
"Harry hates me Hella, I know it," Sirius grumbled.
"Don't say that Siri, Harry loves you."
"Yeah right…"
"Look, we both know why he's acting the way he is now don't we? Let's just take it in baby steps on what we can do about it. As of now, the only thing that's huge is this little guy," Helena said, placing a hand on her stomach. "We both know Harry will grow to accept it eventually."
"Yeah, when he's born? That's too far away. I want him to respect me now," Sirius said a glint of anger in his eye.
"He's not going to magically- wait, wrong word. He's not going to all of a sudden respect you again Sirius. He's a kid; let him be angry once in a while."
"No! I- do you know what I heard him say to Moony when the party started? Do you?" Sirius asked.
Helena shook her head, not speaking since she knew her boyfriend would talk over her.
"He said Remus was like a father to him! That- that just because I have the title as godfather doesn't make me anymore of a father figure to him!"
"Maybe it was just the moment. It was his birthday, he wanted to say something nice to him since he doesn't see him all the time," Helena offered.
"He's his teacher! He sees him every day!" Sirius cried.
Helena rubbed her eyes. She was getting tired. "Can we talk about this tomorrow over lunch Sirius? I really need to get some sleep as do you."
"But Hella, you know I want this to end right now"-
"Well it isn't," Helena said bluntly. "I can't make Harry forgive you Sirius. He has every right to be angry with you."
"Why does everyone keep saying that?" Sirius demanded.
"You heard it from him yourself. You had control over your penis Sirius, not me."
"But you agreed to do it," Sirius pointed out. "We were both drunk that night. You were the one laughing that I couldn't seem to get the condom on right."
"Can we not argue about this? It's done and over with. We had sex and are now paying for the consequences of it. We're having a son and having him in four and a half months. Harry will forgive you Sirius and you know it. He's not going to be spending every single day at the Grangers or the Weasleys all of summer. He's going to have to face you eventually."
Sirius rubbed his neck again like he always did under pressure. "You have a point…I mean we both live here."
"And you are his father aren't you now?" Helena reminded him with a loving smile.
Sirius couldn't help but smile too. "Yeah I am. I can whoop his behind if things get out of line. Kidding!" he added seeing his girlfriend's look.
"I sure hope to all things holy that you are Sirius. He was abused after all," she said with a sour tone.
"But I can give him a sharp swat now and again right?"
"You are not to lay a finger on that child Sirius if you're going to do it to harm him. I'm sure Remus knows a few ways to have Harry listen and not doing too many stupid and dangerous things."
Sirius looked at her. "Why do you all think Moony can go and raise a kid better than I can?"
"Here we go again," Helena exasperated. "I never said that."
"Well you did say he knows ways to punish Harry that I don't," Sirius said candidly.
"You both can raise a kid Sirius even if you're an idiot at times," Helena said rolling her eyes.
They stayed silent for a few minutes. Sirius rubbed his neck a third time. "You're right Hella, Harry's my son now. I can do what I want with him. I can punish him if he does anything. I won't let him run away in the dead of night. I know I can do it, it's not hard. I did it last summer."
"I know you did and can do it again Sirius but let me remind you- Harry has changed a lot since last summer hasn't he?" Helena asked.
Sirius bit his lip. "Yeah, you're right. I know he's not as shy as he used to be. Nor as self-conscious. He's much stronger and braver and happier now. Should I be worried?" Sirius asked uncertainly.
Helena let out a yawn. "I don't think so my dear. At most Harry's going to be acting like a regular teenager for once. I'm beat; I really should go home right now."
Sirius nodded and they shared a long passionate kiss. "Give my best to Karen all right?"
"I will. She's been having morning sickness and everything with her baby."
"Mmm, I feel bad for her husband. There are two pregnant women in his house!" Sirius declared.
"Oh I know. I tell him time and time again how sorry I feel and if I had a place to move to I would but he just brushes it off."
"You never know, you could be moving out soon Hella. Sometime after the baby is born you're going to want your own space."
"I know, I know. I have been saving up for a flat somewhere. My sister's place is going to be very crowded after we both give birth."
Sirius chuckled and they again kissed before Helena flooed back home. Sirius stood there in his big house and sighed. He was never going to get used to being in the big old home alone. He made sure the kitchen and living area was clean before heading upstairs. He sighed when he stopped at his godson's closed bedroom door. He was bored a few days ago and fashioned a plaque for the door. It now read HARRY'S ROOM in red paint over the wood and had dragons flying around it. He knew he shouldn't enter it but he also knew it wasn't a horrible thing if he did. He grasped the golden door handle and opened it. He turned on the lamp on the bedside table and took in Harry's room. It was nice and neat. All the books were in shelves and the clothes folded in the wardrobe. His red sheets and down comforter and knitted quilt from Mrs. Weasley was neatly over his mattress as were his pillows. It looked as if he hadn't been there for weeks, which was true.
Sirius looked at all the posters around the room and smiled as the occupants looked down at him. What caught his eye were the eight framed photographs on Harry's fire mantel, each boasting Lily and or James. Sirius realized just how much he missed his godson.
"Oh Harry, I wish you knew how sorry I was," Sirius muttered to himself as he sat down on the bed. Not knowing what else to do he turned on Harry's TV and watched it, falling asleep to it like Harry so often did…
Pretty sad way to end a chapter I know. but I enjoyed the conversation between Sirius and Helena. I hope everyone understands why Harry is avoiding his godfather atm. I can't imagine unplanned pregnancies are something easy to forgive.
Magical love: Rose