3. Stare

Harry really wished that he could get hold of that letter addressed to him. He was amazed at the lengths at which Uncle Vernon went to stop him getting a letter. It just made him so angry that he couldn't take a peek at his letter.

"It's just not fair. Why can't I read my letter?" Hot tears streamed down his contrite face. Tears kept falling until he felt a hankie wipe his tears. Looking up, he couldn't move his eyes away from the pale lady. It had been days since he last saw her and he wanted to just soak it all in. She was as pretty as he remembered.

"You know, I'll feel unwelcomed if you don't say a word." A dainty hand patted him on the head, "But I know what'll make you feel better. Here's your letter."

The envelope was old fashioned with a wax seal. He tackled her and squeezed her waist. Even as she chuckled, he didn't let go. "Thank you."

"It's my pleasure. Such a polite child you are."

He beamed at the compliment. It was an unusual experience for him.

"Let's see what the letter is all about."

Harry nodded happily and began to rip the seal. It was an acceptance letter for a Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Was this some kind of sick joke? He had been hoping for so much more.

"Don't be so down, it isn't a joke. The world isn't nearly as normal and dull as your uncle and aunt would like you to believe. So much is unexplained and amazing. You have no reason to believe, but it would be nice for you to try anyway."

With a warm heart, he found that he could scrounge up just enough belief.