Harry sighed as he sat on the beach. He liked the beach, watching the waves rolling and crashing. Sometimes they were eerily still and calm. They were a force of nature. He'd like to come back to this little cottage, Shell Cottage, one day. But for now, it was time to go home.
He had left Grimmauld Place weeks ago. It had been so hard to do, but he decided he needed to get away. He contemplated taking Ginny, but thoughts of her rejecting him because he'd been the last Horcrux made him leave alone. Now, in hindsight, he was angry that he would think that of her. His Ginny would never make him feel bad for something he had no control of.
He'd Apparated from Grimmauld Place to the Portkey office, confunding the Portkey officer and taking an unauthorised Portkey to Paris. He remembered hearing Ginny mentioning a place she had stayed when she went last summer. He stayed overnight, just long enough to access funds from Gringott's bank. Knowing Bill had worked there, made Harry realise he couldn't stay there permanently.
He Apparated to Switzerland, staying in a little chalet for a week before Apparating to Italy. He picked up the local papers, easily doing a translations spell so he could read them. Just as he feared, the whole world was on 'Harry Potter Watch'. He read the articles in disbelief, especially Rita Skeeter's.
'One wonders why Harry Potter has fled. What secrets is he hiding? The Ministry of Magic needs to talk to him, find out exactly what happened in the courtyard of Hogwarts, where Voldemort perished. Rumours abound about his state of mind after the epic battle. The wizarding world want to celebrate their hero, but mostly, we deserve answers!'
You deserve to kiss my ass, thought Harry. He went on and read another, and another. It was all the same. They all wanted a piece of him. Why couldn't they leave him alone?
Harry liked the Quibbler article best. Sure enough, Luna Lovegood's byline was under it, dated only days earlier.
'Come Home Harry! After carrying the weight of the wizarding world on his shoulder's since he was fifteen months old, Harry Potter is now a free man. Free to do what he wants, be who he wants. Some say he owes us answers. I say we owe him time and space. But please, Come Home Soon, Harry. Your family and friends miss you.'
Harry had been in Cornwall when he read that. It affected him badly. Harry spent days in bed, or long walks along the beach, mulling his entire life over and over. If he hadn't been born, the prophecy never would have existed. If he hadn't befriended Ron and Hermione, they never would have betrayed him. If he was a Muggle, he wouldn't know of any of this. If he hadn't met Ginny that day in Diagon Alley, they might not have got closer, might not-
NO! He was not going to deny his love for Ginny. It was the best part of him, he just didn't know if he was good for her. She could have been killed, in Diagon Alley by Nagini, or during the Final battle, all because of him.
He still felt disgusted that he'd had a piece of Voldemort in him, and was finding it hard to get past that more than anything else. Some days he lay in bed, weeping for all he had lost, or all the one's who'd died, because of Voldemort. His parents,Cedric, Molly, Ron, Hagrid, dear Hagrid.
He'd lay there, other days, contemplating Dumbledore and the choices he'd made. In Tom Riddle and the choices he'd made. Were the three of them so dissimilar? The thought made him vomit. He didn't want to be like either of them.
Finally he got out of bed, shocked by how weakened he was. He ventured outside, sitting on the beach. It was cold, but not raining. He wondered what the date was. He knew he'd missed Christmas, and he wondered how Ginny had reacted to his letter. Had she thrown the ring away? Had she understood why he needed to get away?
It took him two days till he was strong enough to walk to the nearest shops for more food and a paper. He was stunned. It was Janurary 30th. His mother's birthday.
Thinking of his parents made him think of Godric's Hollow. He remembered Father Dornan's words. 'You are a Citizen. You may always seek shelter and solace here. Godric's Hollow is always here to welcome you home'.
Home. It's all he ever wanted. A place to belong. He thought it was Hogwarts. Then, he thought it was Grimmauld Place, but now he knew what it was. It was Ginny. Ginny was his home.
Still, he had liked the little village he'd been born in, and he wanted to see Father Dornan again.
He decided to return to Grimmauld Place. He longed to see Ginny, hold Ginny, love Ginny. For the first time in a long time, he smiled. He was going home.
He cleaned the place up, then cleaned himself up. With excitement and trepadition, he Apparated to London, then caught a cab close to Grimmauld Place. He prayed they hadn't changed the wards, and that he could still enter. He reached out, his hand on the door knob. Taking a deep breath, Harry twisted it. The door opened, and Harry went inside.
Not much had changed, although Emmy's little touches were here and there. Harry slowly walked down the entrance hall, passing the hall stand that Tonks always tripped over. He wondered how her pregnancy was going.
He peered into the lounge, surprised to see the Christmas tree still up. He frowned as he realised the presents he'd placed underneath before he left were still there. What was that about?
"Remus, Tonks, is that you?" called Sirius from the kitchen.
Harry smiled. Sirius. His dad, in all but blood. He walked into the kitchen. Sirius had his back to him.
"No, it's not Remus or Tonks," he said.
Sirius whipped around, holding a knife. His face paled. "Harry?"
Harry smiled, a smile of regret. He nodded.
Sirius placed the knife down and rushed over to him. "You're here," he cried, stunned. He held him at arms length, before pulling him close for a big hug. "You're home," he said in relief.
They pulled apart, each smiling at the other. "You're...okay?" asked Sirius. Harry looked pale and had lost weight over the last five weeks.
"Yeah," said Harry. "I'm good."
"Oy Sirius, hope you're cooking heaps. I'm starving," yelled Tonks, crashing into the hall stand as she came through the floo.
Harry chuckled. Some things didn't change.
"What's new," yelled Sirius, winking at Harry. "Damn, I forgot to move the hallstand. Oy Emmy, get your cute butt down here. We've got company,"he yelled.
"Company? We're not company, we're family," said Remus, coming through the floo behind Tonks, but walking ahead of her into the kitchen. He stopped, stunned. "Harry?"
Harry grinned and nodded. Remus rushed over to hug him, while Sirius patted them both happily on the back.
"Harry!" cried Emmy, rushing over to hug him. He heard the squeal of another female but he was being smothered so couldn't see who it was.
"Wotcher Harry," grinned Tonks, as Emmy pulled away. She hugged him, and he tried real hard not to look at her bigger bosom. She smirked at him as she pulled back. "Impressive, huh? One of the perks of pregnancy. Remus loves 'em."
Harry burst out laughing as Remus blushed and cried out, "Tonks!"
"Merlin it's so good to see you all again. Rose? Is that you?" asked Harry, surprised.
Rose Zeller nodded. "Sirius and Emmy are my guardians now. It was Ginny's idea," she said happily.
Sirius had his arm over Emmy's shoulder's, and they looked on happily. "That's great!" said Harry.
"Gin kidded that I was starting a home for wayward girls," chuckled Sirius. "I agreed and told her she'd always be my favourite."
"Oddballs, outcasts and orphans, remember Harry," giggled Rose.
Harry nodded, looking at the faces of his family. "So, ah, where is Gin?"
Sirius, Emmy, Remus and Tonks looked at each other. It was Rose who told him sadly "She's gone."
Harry looked at her sad face before swinging back to the others. "She's gone? Where?"
Sirius sighed. Her Mum and brother's funeral was pretty tough for her. And Harry, her Great Great Aunt Muriel died, the day after Christmas. Passed in her sleep. I know the two of you visited her a couple of times."
Harry was saddened. "We talked about going to visit her on Boxing Day," he said softly. He sighed. Poor Ginny.
"I think it all just got a bit too much for her, you know. She really missed you," said Tonks.
"I should have been here for her, damnit," said Harry, angrily. "So, she's at the Burrow?
Sirius shook his head. "No. Bill and Fleur took her and Arthur to Paris.. We know they stopped in to see Charlie in Romania. She left about a week ago."
"When was the last time anyone contacted her? She-she is coming home, isn't she? asked Harry, running his hands through his hair in frustration.
"She did go to a place called Godric's Hollow,"piped up Rose.
"She did?" asked Harry.
Rose nodded. "She said she felt closer to you after going there. She spoke to the Minister of the church, she liked him. Said he'd light a candle for you, to guide you home. Ginny liked that."
"I'll go to Godric's Hollow," said Harry.
"Harry, wait," said Remus, as Harry started to leave.
"What? I'm worried about her, Remus," said Harry.
"We were worried about you, but we gave you the time you needed to come to terms with what happened. Don't you think Ginny deserves the same time?" he asked gently.
Harry nodded sadly. "I just wanted to come home to her, you know. She is my home. I needed to tell her that."
Tonks drew his head to her ample bosom. "She'll come back, Harry. Be patient." Sirius smirked at him.
"You are staying here, aren't you?" asked Sirius. Emmy nodded encouragingly.
"You sure it's still okay?" he asked, looking at them and Rose.
"Of course. Besides, when Gin comes back, this will be the first place she comes to."
Harry nodded. "That makes sense."
Remus sighed in relief. "Good lad. Now, we have lots to tell you. Sirius, weren't you making lunch for us?"
Sirius sighed and nodded. Tonks rubbed her belly. "Not nice to keep a pregnant witch from food, you know, Cousin."
Rose giggled. "I'll help you Sirius."
"That's my girl," said Sirius, giving her a one armed hug. "Sit, sit, food's almost ready."
Harry sat at the table. It was good to be surrounded by people he knew and trusted. Still, he missed Ginny. Desperately.
Rose slid a butterbeer in front of him.
"Now, where to start. Neville, you wouldn't believe..."began Sirius.
Harry sat back and caught up on five weeks of news about his friends, the wizarding world and Hogwarts.
The next day he went to Godric's Hollow. He brought a bouquet of yellow flowers from a local vendor. On this cold day, they seemed sunny; happy. Just what he wanted for his Mum. He headed for the graveyard, looking around as he went. It was the first time he'd been there in the daylight.
Several wizards banished snow from people's homes, making a big pile of it that the children were playing with. Some were having a snowball fight, while some worked together to make a snowman. He chuckled as he went past. Someone had put some glasses on it and drawn a lightening bolt scar, calling it Snowman Harry Potter.
Some other wizards were strengthening the ponds, which had turned to ice. Nearby, children waited patiently with their ice skates on, waiting to get the all clear that it was safe.
Mothers bustled from the shops, with food and necessary household items. They greeted each other, for everyone knew everyone in this little village.
A little boy flew a kite, with other children cheering him on. An older wizard twirled his wand, creating the wind that kept the kite airborn. Another little boy sat on the side, glumly watching all the fun around him. Harry went over to him and crouched down.
"Hi, I'm Harry. Are you okay?"
The little boy nodded, his eyes on the kite. "I'm Ben."
Harry followed his gaze. "Do you have a kite, Ben?"
Ben shook his head. "Nah, I don't have nothin'. I'm an orphan."
"Oh. Is there an orphanage here in Godric's Hollow?" asked Harry. He wasn't aware of one.
Ben shook his head, now looking at the boys throwing snowballs. "Nah, over the bridge in Godric's Point. I came to talk to Father Dee."
"Father Dee? Oh, Father Dornan," guessed Harry. Ben nodded.
"Well, I wanted to talk to him too. Shall we go together?" asked Harry. He stood up and held out his hand.
Ben looked up at Harry's hand, then at Harry. "I guess," he said slowly. He put his hand in Harry's.
"I haven't seen you here before," he said.
"I lived here a long time ago, but I'm thinking about moving back," said Harry.
"It's a nice place. I wish someone would adopt me and Becca from here, so we wouldn't have to leave here ever," said Ben.
"Becca?" asked Harry.
"My sister," shrugged Ben.
"How old are you, Ben?" asked Harry, nodding to one of the townspeople.
"I'm six. Who are the flowers for?" he asked his new friend.
"My Mum. It was her birthday the other day," said Harry.
"Boy, she's gonna be mad at you for forgettin'," said Ben.
"No, she'd understand," said Harry. They had just arrived at the cemetery, and Ben understood what Harry meant. "Oh." Harry simply nodded.
"Hello Ben, I was wondering if you would come and see me today," said Father Dornan, patting the boy on the head. He turned his attention to Harry. "Welcome home, my son."
Harry bowed his head in respect.
Father Dornan noticed the flowers in Harry's hand. "Ben, why don't you come and speak to me while Harry visits, uh-"
"My Mum," said Harry. "It was her birthday the other day."
"She's dead," Ben told Father Dornan, who nodded and patted his head.
"Yes, well, why don't we go and talk while Harry visits his Mum. Then it will be Harry's turn, okay?"
Ben and Harry looked at each other, then nodded. "Okay," they said in unison. They grinned at each other.
Father Dornan extended his hand to Ben. "Come." To Harry, he said, "whenever you're ready, Harry." Then he and Ben went into the church.
Ben was waiting when Harry came back to the church. "Father Dee said to go right in," he told Harry.
"Thanks, mate," said Harry. Ben beamed and decided to wait for Harry to come back out.
Harry went to find Father Dornan. He was sitting in the front pew. "Hello, Father."
Father Dornan stood up and shook Harry's hand. "It is so good to see you again. You have been in my prayers."
"Oh, uh, thanks," said Harry.
"What can I help you with today?" asked Father Dornan.
Harry shrugged. "I'm not sure. I mean, I came today to ask you about living here in Godric's Hollow. You know, who do I see about building, or buying?"
Father Dornan nodded. "I suggest you see the Mayor of Godric. He is our elected town official which includes Godric's Hollow, Godric's Point and Godric's Bluff," smiled Father Dornan.
"I didn't even know about those other places. Ben told me he lives in the orphanage at Godric's Point," said Harry.
Father Dornan nodded. "Yes. Our villages aren't very big, but we are all close, and we all look out for one another. Mayor Solomon is a good man, a good wizard. He'll be able to help you, Harry."
Harry nodded in thanks. "I've been doing a lot of soul-searching these last few weeks, Father. Ever since..."
Father Dornan nodded in understanding. "You have carried this load for many years. It must feel strange, to suddenly be free."
"I feel so angry that people have manipulated me, ever since my parents were killed. I was just a child. Professor Dumbledore is acknowledged as one of the greatest wizards of all time, but not to me. He used me, time and time again. That's what hurts so much, that's what I'm struggling to get past. All he cared about was using me to end Voldemort. I used to admire him, but now I almost hate him."
"Albus had his own trials to bear. The death of his sister caused an estrangement between him and his brother that never really healed. Since then, for all his acknowledgements as the greatest wizard since Merlin, Albus was actually quite a lonely man,"said Father Dornan.
"But why do older people think they can get away with hurting children like that. We're innocent, we should be protecting our children," said Harry.
Father Dornan sighed. "Try to learn forgiveness, my Son. Hate is a wasted emotion. Albus is gone. He will face the consequences of his decisions in the Afterlife," said Father Dornan.
"Do you really think there is an Afterlife? I-I like to think my parents can hear me when I go to their graves and talk to them," asked Harry, wistfully.
"I believe that one day, when our bodies have lived enough, our Spirit passes on to the next great adventure. Woudn't you like to think your parents will be there, waiting for you?" asked Father Dornan.
Harry nodded.
"Now, let us talk of more pleasant things. I met your Ginny, you know," said Father Dornan, his eyes twinkling as Harry perked up.
"When was she here? I've been away for five weeks, and I've returned to find she's gone," said Harry.
"I saw her about a week ago. She was with a friend. Um... Luna, that's right," said Father Dornan.
Harry sighed in relief. "Was she all right?"
"She has missed you terribly," said Father Dornan. "She seemed to be dealing with a lot, emotionally.
"I know. I made a mistake in leaving her. She's been through a lot, like me. She was estranged from her mum and her brother, and they both died in the battle. When I left, I should have taken her with me. She's so strong, so understanding. We do better when we're together. Why do I push those closest to me away, Father?" asked Harry.
Father Dornan smiled. "Because you know, in your heart, that they will always be there, waiting. They will forgive you because they love you. Love is the most powerful source we have."
Harry nodded. "Yes. It's what helped me defeat Tom Riddle, you know. A golden shield protected my godfather, Ginny and me from the Killing Curse."
Father Dornan nodded. "You may not believe it, my son, but you inspire a lot of love in those you call family. Embrace it, Harry. Forget the hate, the past. Look to the future. Let love in."
Harry smiled. "I will, Father. Thank you."
Both men stood and shook hands. "If I can be of any help, do not hesitate to come and see me, Harry," said Father Dornan, as they walked out of the church
"Well, can you start by telling me which way to the Mayor's office?" asked Harry, with a grin.
"I'll show ya, Harry," said Ben, jumping down off a statue on one of the gravesites.
"It looks like you are in good hands. Goodbye, Harry," said Father Dornan. "Goodbye, Ben."
"Bye Father Dee," waved Ben. He took Harry's hand. "This way, Harry. What do you gotta see the Mayor about?"
"Well, Ben, if I'm going to live here in Godric's Hollow, I'm going to need a house. No, a home," said Harry. A home for him and Ginny.
"Oh boy, really? Can I come and visit you, Harry?" asked Ben.
"Sure buddy. So, which way?" asked Harry, looking left and right.
"This way, Harry. Come on," said Ben, pulling his hand.
Several townspeople nearby chuckled at the sight of the excited boy pulling the man. Harry smiled to them all. There were no whispers, no staring. He wondered if they knew who he was.
"Welcome Home, Mr Potter," said a witch, beaming at him.
"Welcome Home," they all cried.
Harry smiled at them. If only Ginny were here, it would be perfect.