CHAPTER 9: A tale of a cloak, a lost boy, a mirror and a letter
A/N: Hey guys, back with another chapter. It's the longest yet and also the one I'm most proud of. As you will find out that things start to differ from canon slightly and I understand if it doesn't please you, but I simply hope that you give it a chance. Without further ado, Enjoy!
Hogsmeade Station, Morning
Harry and Ron stood on the platform with their hands inside their pockets as their teeth clattered in the winter morning. Their heads were covered with woolen beanies that Mrs. Weasley had knitted herself and sent them via owl.
"Why does it have to be so bloody freezing? I can't even feel my face" Ron grumbled, as he brought his glove covered hand over his face.
"I know. I just want to get under hot shower at the moment." said Harry, as another jolt of shiver ran through his body.
"Wouldn't that be wonderful? I think I'm going to do just that the moment we reach the dormitory."
"How about this, we race back to the castle and the person who reaches the dormitory first, gets the privilege to use the shower first and" he stretched the word out before continuing "can use it for as long they desire" he finished with a smirk on his lips.
"Deal" Ron responded firmly, as both friends shook hands on it. "Although I was going to run back anyway since its so DAMN COLD!" he shouted the last part but no one seemed to care as students were busy saying last goodbyes to their friends that were staying back for the winter holidays.
"Where is Hermione anyway?" Ron asked with annoyance, as he tried to find his bushy haired friend.
"Over there" Ron turned his gaze to where Harry was pointing at and saw Hermione standing near the train as she handed her luggage to Hagrid. She watched him store her luggage in the carriage before turning on her heel and walking towards them.
"So, I guess this is it" Her eyes betraying the sadness that she was trying to hide behind by the forced smile on her lips as she stood awkwardly with her hands behind her back.
"Oh about bloody time" Ron cried out, flinging his arms in the air. However, in his exuberant response he missed the hurt look that came over Hermione's features which she tried to mask by looking down.
Harry, on the other hand didn't miss it and seeing the emotions flash through her face in that one second reminded him of the scared little girl he shouted at the first time they met on the train ride to Hogwarts who seemed so unsure of herself and not the confident, although sometimes bossy, smart, brave person he has come to cherish as his friend.
He didn't ever wanted to see her like this no matter what and turn into this shell of a person from who she actually was and so in order to bring her back to normal, he did the first thing that popped into his mind.
He punched Ron, hard, on the shoulder.
"OW" Ron yelled in pain as he turned to face him. "What was that for?" he demanded angrily, as he brought his other hand to his throbbing shoulder, grimacing in pain.
"For being an inconsiderate git" Harry glared at him.
"What are you talking about?"
Harry was about to open his mouth when Hermione interjected. "It's okay Harry" they both turned to face her. "I'm sure Ron didn't mean it that way" she mustered up a smile that didn't seem natural at all.
Ron scrunched his face in confusion as all three were quite for a couple of seconds before his eyes turned wide as realization dawned on him.
"Oh I didn't mean it like that Hermione, I only said it because of the weather" he walked closer to her in order to convince her that he was being absolute sincere.
"Really?" her eyes shining a bit as a small but genuine smile came over her face.
"Of course!" he exclaimed. "C'mon Hermione, we're friends. What, did you think that I was going to break our friendship the day you leave for the holidays? What kind of a person you think I am?" he said, exasperated.
His expression communicating the hurt he was feeling by her lack of trust in him.
"No, it's not that Ron" she insisted, not wanting to offend him more. She let out a deep sigh while staring at the ground for a moment before looking up at him again. "It's just that I never had any friends before I met you" she then looked at Harry before adding "And you as well Harry" before turning back to Ron. "And I sometimes still have a hard time believing that you guys actually like me and that this wasn't just some prank that you pulled on me because of a bet or to amuse yourself" she took a shuddering breath as a tear rolled down her cheek.
Harry came over and put a hand on her shoulder, making her look at him as she wiped her eyes. "Has this happened to you? Did someone-"his question was cut short as Hermione nodded her head.
She took a deep breath to compose herself before speaking.
"There was this girl in my class last year. She was the most popular student in our school because her parents were really rich. Everyone was either jealous of her or wanted to be like her but everyone wanted to her friend.
She never talked to me before the start of the second semester. She seemed really nice and we quickly became friends. She used to show me everything her parents brought her for that week and sometimes even let me play with some of her toys.
I thought we were going to be friends for life" a mirthless laugh escaped her lips as she shook her head before wiping her nose and continuing with her story. "On the last day of our mid semester break, she took me to the playground during lunch.
I was surprised to find everyone from our year there, looking at us." Her face scrunched up as she tried real hard not to let any more tears fall, but failed as they streamed down her cheeks.
"Hermione, it's okay, please don't cry" Harry pleaded, as he walked her over to an empty bench with an arm around her shoulder with Ron right beside them. Harry and Ron sat on either side of her, the thought of sitting on a bench that was half covered with snow was the furthest thing on their mind.
"Look you don't need to tell us anymore" Ron urged, to which Harry nodded. "I think we have an idea what happened next"
"I want to" she said in a broken voice. "I have never told this to anyone before and I really want to at this point" They didn't say anything but simply waited for her to continue as more students got on the train.
"She then shoved me to the ground. My lunchbox was lying next to me on the ground which she kicked away. All I could here after that was everyone laughing at me as she started mocking me. Telling me how all this was just a prank to make a fool out of me and that everyone was in on it. She said that I must be really stupid to believe that someone like her could ever be friends with me"
She took a shaky breath. "I didn't stay to hear what else she had to say and ran away to my home. Luckily my mum was home that day. I went straight to my room and locked it. She tried everything to open it but I couldn't hear her screams as my sobs were even louder.
In the end she called Dad and he broke the lock. I remember their faces when they saw me. I have never seen them so scared, especially my Dad. They kept questioning me about what happened as I continued crying in my mum's arms. I said nothing except that I didn't wanted to go to school anymore. The one thing I loved the most, I didn't wanted to ever see in my life again." She barely got the last words out of her mouth as she started crying in earnest.
Ron and Harry put an arm around her shoulder, not knowing what else to do. Her tears final subsided after a few minutes. She wiped her nose with her sleeve as a hiccup escaped her.
"What happened then, did you go back?" Ron asked with trepidation.
She shook her head. "No. But my-my d-dad did. I don't know what he said but he was really an-angry when he got back. I'm sure he told mum about it but they never told me, and I didn't wanted to know either." Her voice hoarse as more hiccup's escaped her. "That night they came to my room and asked me whether I would like to go to a different school or be home-schooled"
When she didn't elaborate any further, Harry asked "And? What did you choose?"
"I said I would go to a different school" Harry was shocked by her admission, and by seeing Ron's expression he knew he felt the same way.
"But why?" Ron asked, bewildered. "If something like that happened to me I wouldn't go to a school for the rest of my life"
Hermione gave him a watery smile. "Ron, even if something like that never happened to you, you still would never attend a school if given a choice" Harry's shoulders sagged in relief a bit as he was glad to see her smile again, his own lips twitching at the corner.
"That's doesn't matter, but why would you not take the option of studying from home? Ron asked.
She didn't speak immediately and inclined her head back as little balls of snow started coming down the sky with one landing on her cheek. Harry noticed her smile got even wider as she brought a hand to her cheek and grabbed it. "Because I love school. Everything about it. I thought a lot that day and it all came down to one thing. The happiness I felt attending school outweighed my fear of coming across other bullying kids.
And it was the right decision because even though I avoided everyone at my new school and no one talked to me, I was more than happy with it because I simply loved going to school every day and learning new things" She shrugged her shoulders. "Plus, I loved my new teachers." She added.
Ron nodded his head "Wow. Umm, I don't know what to say" he looked at her with a sad expression, really hating himself that he couldn't come up with something better to say to his friend who went through something so horrible.
"I do" they turned their heads towards Harry who was looking at Hermione. "That you're the bravest person I know." He smiled at her.
A blush came over Hermione's cheeks as she turned her head down. "I'm not" she said softly.
"You are" he insisted. "I'm sorry you had to go through something so horrible."
"Thanks" she gave him a winning smile.
"Yeah, what Harry said, I was going to say the same thing" Ron's words brought out a laugh out of everyone, especially Hermione who laughed so hard that she bowed down clutching her stomach.
Harry and Ron watched her in amusement before their eyes found each other. They maintained eye contact for a few moments during which both made a silent promise to always be by her side and sealed it with a smile.
Hermione wiped at her eyes just as the train blew the whistle with smoke coming out from the chimney.
"Oh, I better get going" she stood up with Ron and Harry following her. She looked at them for a moment before extending her right hand forward. "I'll see you guys after the holidays"
Harry shook her hand with a huge smile. "Can't wait to see you again Hermione, Happy holidays" he grinned.
"Thanks" she smiled before extending her hand towards Ron. He looked at it for a moment before taking a step and engulfing her in a big hug that nearly took the air out of her lungs.
"I'll miss you Hermione" he whispered so only she could hear.
Hermione's eyes got watery again as her grin broadened. "I'll miss you too Ron"
Harry scuffed his feet on the ground as a small blush rose to his cheeks, feeling a bit uncomfortable watching his friends share this intimate moment.
He watch them broke the hug before turning towards him.
"So what will you guys do during the holidays?" she asked.
"Keep searching for Nicolas Flamel for one" said Harry to which Hermione gave a nod. "And roam around the castle I guess"
"Yeah only if it isn't freezing outside"
"HERMIONE?" They turned to look at Hagrid waving at them. "What are ye still doing 'ere. Get inside. The train's about to leave any second now"
"COMING" she yelled back. "Well, have fun but not too much" she smiled at them.
"The same goes for you" quipped Ron.
She turned around and only took a couple of steps before stopping. Ron and Harry looked at each other with a frown. Hermione turned back around and looked at Harry.
She opened and closed her mouth a few times but no words came out. Harry took a couple of steps towards her as he scrunched his forehead. "Everything alright Hermione?"
"Umm Yeah, I just" she seemed to be in a conflict with herself regarding whatever this was.
"HERMIONE!" came Hagrid's booming voice.
"Gotta go" She turned on her heel and dashed towards the train. Harry watched Hagrid help her get inside before she turned around and waived them goodbye which they returned.
They watched the red locomotive till it disappeared in the fog.
"What was that about?" asked Ron as they started walking back to the castle.
"I'm not sure" Harry replied, deep in thought about what could Hermione possibly had to say to him. He knew it wasn't something serious or else he would've noticed but it still irked him to no end.
"Hey Harry"
"Hmm" he said with his head down.
"See you back in the dormitory" Harry lifted his head just in time to see a huge grin on Ron's face before he took off.
It took Harry a couple of seconds for him realize what he meant before he dashed after him. His lips curling at the corner at the thought of getting under the shower. First.
….
First year Boys Dormitory, Gryffindor, Christmas Morning
Harry turned over on his side as he snuggled further into the blanket. His eyes were shut in a peaceful slumber when the drapes covering his bed were yanked open.
"HARRY, WAKE UP!" The scream sent a shockwave through his entire body with every hair on his body standing up as he bolted straight up with his eyes the size of saucers as he frantically tried to move but in his panic stricken state got tangled up in the bed sheets before rolling over the bed and landing on the floor with a thump.
"OW" he moaned, trying to get the cover off his head which he managed after several failed attempts. The first thing he saw when his vision wasn't obscured by darkness was the shaking figure of his red headed friend. After further examine in which he noticed his hands clutching his waist and the tears appearing at the corner of his eyes was that he was laughing. At him.
Harry's eyes narrowed as he glared murderously at him. "It's not funny Ron" he yelled, that had no effect on Ron, who was now leaning against the bed post as his shoulder shook with silent laugher.
Harry glowered at him as he got rid of the covers that were draped over and under his body before standing up.
He threw the covers on the bed before stomping over to him and started throwing punches at him left and right.
"Ok, ok" Ron relented putting his hands up in defence as a few chuckles still escaped his lips. He peeked through his fingers as Harry finally stopped attacking him. His nostrils were flaring and he seemed slightly out of breath, his body not yet used to working out in the early hours of dawn.
"I'm sorry" Harry lifted his arm once again when he saw his lips curling into a grin. "Wait, Wait" he said putting his hands up once again. "Just let me get this out of the way please or I won't be able to speak"
Harry rolled his eyes before saying in a deadpan voice. "Go on"
Ron started cackling again the moment the words left his mouth. It wasn't for another 5 minutes in which Harry went to the bathroom to wash his face and brush his teeth that his laughter finally subsided.
Harry closed the bathroom door behind him and found him sitting on his bed. "Had your fill"
Ron simply nodded his head with a smile. "I'm sorry mate. I was only trying to wake you"
"Just me or the whole castle" he said sarcastically with a scowl as he walked towards his trunk.
"Just you" chuckled Ron.
"Yeah, somehow I don't believe that" replied Harry as he took out a white t-shirt and a pair of black trousers.
"C'mon Harry, don't be like that. I just get really excited on Christmas, you know" He got up as Harry changed into his new clothes.
"Fine" sighed Harry, before giving him a small smile. "So, what do you want to do then?"
Ron beamed at him before answering "Open the presents of course"
He turned and headed towards the door before turning the knob when he looked over his shoulder to find Harry still standing on the same spot with his head hung low.
"What's the matter?" Ron asked with scrunched eyebrows as he walked over to him.
Harry lifted his head with a solemn look on his face. "I don't think there is much point of me going then" At seeing confusion written all over his friend's face he further elaborated. "I have never gotten any presents in my life let alone on Christmas" his voice not more than a whisper.
Ron put a hand on his shoulder as a small smile graced his lips. "Why don't you come down and take a look for yourself" Before Harry could respond he dragged him out of the room and down the stairs into the common room.
Harry's eyes went straight to the Christmas tree which wasn't there yesterday. It was adorned with ornaments and lights all over. Harry turned his eyes up and gasped loudly. A minuscule version of the Hogwarts express was circling the top of the tree.
"C'mon" Ron tugged on his arm and they crossed the room before stopping right in front of the tree. "Look" he pointed to the ground where more than a dozen presents of all shapes and sizes were placed at the foot of the tree.
"Wow" whispered Harry, before turning to face his friend. "You must have a lot of relatives"
"I do" he shrugged before adding. "But these are only from my family. Mainly my parents and two older brothers Bill and Charlie, also they're not all mine. Like this one" he bent down and picked up a green package. He showed Harry the name written on the small white sticker on the top right corner.
Harry craned his head to look at it before his eyes turned wide and his mouth hung open in shock. He stared at Ron in disbelief.
Ron gave him a toothy smile as he shoved the package into Harry's arms. "It's yours, as is half of everything else"
Harry's eyes turned even wider if that was possible which made Ron chuckle. "Go on, open it"
He was still in shock as he kept staring at the package in his arms.
"It's not going to open by itself Harry"
"Huh" he responded dumbly, to which Ron snatched it from his arms.
"Here, let me do it" Harry watched Ron tear the wrapping paper and throw it to the ground. "Of course. I should've known. Mum makes one for us all every year" he said before facing Harry, revealing the woolen sweater in the process. It was red in colour with a Christmas tree in the middle. "Here, try it out" Ron said handing him the first piece of clothing he was about to wear that wasn't used by someone else.
He put it on and the first thing that popped into his mind was the warmth it provided. It was snuggly and cozy and he loved it. It fit him perfectly as if it was made just for him.
"Ron?" he asked, scrunching his forehead. "How did your mum knew my size?"
"Oh don't ask me about that, she just does." He waived his arm before picking another present.
They spent the next half an hour opening every other present which were the same for both of them. Harry looked at his pile and was overcome with emotion that someone thought about him enough to buy him presents. He was extremely grateful to the entire Weasley family and wished that he could thank them in person.
"Ron" Ron looked up from his book which was an encyclopedia about dragons that was a present from his brother Charlie.
"Hmm"
"On the next letter to your parents, could you also mention that I am extremely grateful and appreciative for all this" Harry wasn't very good with words, especially when it came to emotions, whether it be face to face or on paper, so he just hoped that Ron would convey his message to the best of his ability.
"Sure mate, don't worry about it" he said with a smile before going back to his book.
Harry got up and started picking up all the wrapping paper they had dumped on the floor in their excitement. He was nearly done when his eyes landed on another package at the back of the tree. He went over to pick it up and saw an envelope placed upon it. It was addressed to him in a neatly written scrawl that he couldn't quite identify but knew that he had seen the writing before. Another surprising factor was that the envelope looked similar to the ones used in the muggle world with the type of paper used and not the parchment style that he came to associate with the wizarding world.
"What's that?" came Ron's questioning voice.
"I don't know" Harry walked back to where he was seated. He gave the envelope to Ron who looked at it before putting it on the table.
"Who sent it?" Ron asked, looking at the purple package.
Harry shrugged his shoulders. "I don't know but it's really light" He turned it over and found something written in black in the middle. 'To Harry. Use it wisely'.Unlike the letter, he had never seen the writing before.
"Well open it then" Harry started ripping of the package with Ron helping him. They tore open the package in no time revealing a translucent looking garment that slipped through Harry's fingers due to its slippery form and material and dropped to the ground.
They both looked at each other in confusion, never seen anything like this ever before.
Harry picked it up. "What do you think this is?"
"I don't know. A blanket maybe" Ron said with a shrug of his shoulders.
Harry looked at it for a moment before putting it over his shoulders. "It's not of much use if it's a blanket. It's like I'm not even wearing it" He said turning to Ron whose face was ashen white and he was staring at Harry's waist. "What?"
Ron pointed his hand toward him which made Harry look down and he nearly toppled back from the shock he got from not seeing his body.
"What!" he exclaimed, throwing the garment to the ground. He looked down and breathed a sigh of relief as all his body parts came back to view.
"Whoa! Harry, I know what that is" Ron's voiced filled with excitement as he picked the cloth back up and tried it on. Harry's jaw hit the floor once again as he watched his friend's body disappear from the neck down. "It's an invisibility cloak" he said giddily.
"Invisibility cloak?" Harry walked over to him to examine it closely.
"Yeah, they're extremely rare. My dad said that there have only been a handful throughout history." He twirled around making Harry chuckle. " Are you sure there is no name given?
"No. No name" Harry said, deep in thought. He wasn't completely sure but he had a pretty good hunch who it could be as a small tugged at his lips.
"Oh well. We know it's yours now so no one can take it from you" Ron commented, handing the cloak to Harry, before turning his eyes downcast to make sure everything was back to normal.
"Ron!" shouted Harry, making him jump a foot in the air.
"Merlin" exclaimed Ron, putting a hand over his heart. "Don't ever do that again"
"Sorry" Ron looked up at to find Harry's eyes shining with excitement. "You know what this means right?"
"Umm, that we can play pranks on everyone and get away with it"
"Yes, but that's not it. We can search in the restricted section now" Ron's eyes turned wide.
"Blimey! You're right" Harry grinned at him, nodding his head. "How about tonight? No one would be up except Filch"
"I was just about to say that" agreed Harry.
For the rest of the morning both friends made plans about various ways they could use the cloak to their advantage with majority revolving around on getting back at Malfoy and his cronies.
Harry forgot all about the envelope that laid unopened on the table by the fire.
..….
Somewhere in the mountains
A large round bed was placed in the middle of the room. It was so big that it would cover the entire size of most rooms, but this was no ordinary room. It was almost as big as the classrooms in Hogwarts and like them was rectangular in shape. The walls were painted green except the ceiling that was pale blue in colour.
An oval shaped dressing table with three drawers was placed in one corner with a chair. It was made of the finest wood and was deep burgundy in colour. The edge of the mirror was covered with markings in the shape of snakes intertwined.
On its left was a piano, all black except the same markings as the mirror but in green that ran horizontally all around it. A leather chair was placed before it from which one could see outside as it was situated right in front of the window which was hidden by emerald blinds at the moment.
Since the room was located on the second floor of the manor, the view from the window was absolutely breathtaking, especially in the winter with nothing but snowy mountains as far as the eye could see. When it wasn't so dreary and dark with heavy snow falling consistently from the sky, it is also the perfect view to watch the sunset during the summer.
Right next to the piano, standing in the corner was a broom, the nimbus 2001, that was not yet available to the public.
The wall on the opposite end was empty except a wooden door that led to the dressing room. A crystal chandelier hung from the ceiling that was just to the right of the bed, in case an accident happened. It had eight legs, atop which lanterns were placed that glowed during the night.
A mural was painted above the headboard of the bed that covered the wall's entirety. The mural showcased every male member that was born in the family with their faces painted and their name and date of birth and death written underneath it. The figure sleeping on the bed was the latest to have his face up on the wall.
His breathing was laboured as he slept peacefully with the sheets crumpled around his waist.
A knock on the door brought a frown on his face before his features relaxed once again. The knocking continued after a couple of seconds, this time with more force.
"Mmmmm" he moaned while shifting on the bed. That response was sufficient to whoever was on the other side of the door as they entered the room.
An elf walked into the room, holding a tray in front of him. He walked around the bed and placed the tray on the table beside it before snapping his fingers. The blinds separated revealing the morning sky in its full winter glory. Even though it was quite dreary outside, whatever light that entered the previous pitch black room was enough to make the person sleeping on the bed let out another moan of protest.
"Dobbyyyy" whined Draco, as he changed his position once more and almost landed on the edge of the bed. His one arm was dangling of the bed with his legs stretched apart almost doing a full split.
"Time to wake up, Master" Dobby said, with his hands behind his back.
"No please, just some more. More…" a loud snore escaped his lips as he went back to the wonderful quidditch dream he was having. His lips twitched at the corner as he caught the snitch in his dream.
Dobby shook his head. He tried to think of some other way to wake the master up and looked outside. A smile came over his lips as he thought of an idea he was quite sure would do the trick.
He walked over to the bed and bent low so he was close to Draco's ear. "Master, hurry! It's perfect weather for flying, master. Quickly before the snow gets heavy"
Draco was up in no time and headed straight toward his broom but Dobby got in his way.
"How about some breakfast first? You would need your strength master, or you might fall down like last summer."
Draco glared at him "How many times do I have to tell you that was because of that stupid bird. It flew right into my eye. I even had the scar remember. I would never fall off my broom even with my eyes closed and you know it" he harrumphed, shaking his head at the ridiculous idea that a natural born flyer such as himself could ever fall of his broom.
"But you'll be even better with a full stomach, Sir" Dobby reasoned.
"I agree with Dobby" came a voice from the door.
Draco turned around to see his mother leaning against the door with her arms crossed and a small smile adorning her lips. She was still in her sleeping attire.
"Good Morning mother, Merry Christmas" he said with a smile.
"Good Morning, my dear and Merry Christmas" Her eyes then turned towards Dobby. "Merry Christmas to you too Dobby,"
"Merry Christmas Madam, and thank you"
She walked into the room as Draco situated himself back on the bed with his back touching the headboard and crossing his legs before Dobby placed the tray on his lap. "Thank you Dobby"
Dobby bowed low as his head nearly touched the ground. "Always at your service, master"
Draco rolled his eyes as Dobby stood back to his full height once more. "Dobby, how many times have I told you to call me by my name and not this master nonsense" he said with a scowl.
A blush came over Dobby's cheeks as he avoided eye contact, nervously twiddling with his thumbs. "At least one more time master," he spoke shyly.
"That's what you always say" Draco said before munching down a piece of sausage.
He watched his mother tidy up the blanket before sitting at the foot of the bed. "Dobby" Narcissa addressed him with a smile as the elf shifted his gaze towards her. "Master Lucius should be arriving any time now, why don't you make sure everything is ready for his return"
Dobby bowed before answering "Right away, Madam" and with a snap of his fingers he vanished.
"I wish to do that someday" Draco said looking at the spot where Dobby was standing a second ago.
Narcissa chuckled before replying "You will, just have to wait a little longer"
"So" he took another bite of his half eaten sausage as he shot his mother a nervous glance before staring down at the tray "Father's back"
Narcissa's smile faltered a little before she shifted closer to him and lightly touched his arm, making him look into her eyes once more. "Yes, and I'm sure he can't wait to see you. He couldn't stop talking about you in his last letter, writing that he has something special planned for you today"
Draco's nervousness seemed to ebb away, only to be replaced with hope shining through his eyes and excitement running through his veins "Really!" Narcissa nodded as she pinched his cheek. "Mum!' he whined, his face one of disgust as he moved away. "How many times have I told you not to do that?" He rubbed the spot where her hand made contact with his skin.
"I'm afraid you have to say it once more dear" they both looked at each other before bursting into laughter.
"Well, well. It seems the party has started without me" they both looked at the door as Lucius Malfoy sauntered in. Just the mere presence of him exuded royalty accompanied with an aura that surrounded him. He was dressed in all black and was holding a cane in his right hand. It was coated in shiny black lacquer and at the top of the stick was a silver snake's head which had green crystal eyes.
He wore a roguish grin as he made his way towards them.
"Father!" Draco put away his tray and got off the bed before meeting him halfway. Lucius opened his arms and Draco ran straight into him, clutching his torso tightly.
"Oh it's so good to see you son," He looked at Narcissa who stood up as well and raised an eyebrow towards her with a smirk on his lips. She shook her head with a fond smile.
Draco stepped back from his embrace and looked up at him. "Mother said you had a surprise for me"
"Oh did she now?" He mock glared at her which made Draco chuckle. "I always knew she wasn't one to be trusted."
"C'mon father" Draco whined impatiently, jumping on his toes.
"Oh alright" Lucius sighed breaking his façade. He took something out from his inner cloak pocket and hid it in his fist. "Now, are you sure you're ready?" Draco nodded rapidly, not even trying to control his excitement any more. Lucius kneeled down in front of him. "I'm sure you're aware of an exhibition quidditch match being held in France on New Year's Eve, correct?" he asked, pretending to dust something of his cloak.
"Yes, Yes" Draco exclaimed, jumping higher.
"With all the best players in the world making the two teams" Draco bobbed his head as his smile widened even more. "I was wondering" Lucius shrugged his shoulders nonchalantly before a huge smile graced his lips as looked into the blue orbs of his son. "How would you feel watching the match live from the best spot in the stadium" He opened his hands, revealing two golden tickets.
"Yay!" Draco fist pumped the air several times before hugging him. Lucius chuckled at his son's enthusiasm.
Draco suddenly pulled back and stared at his father with a frown. "But what about mother?" He asked turning to look at her.
"Your father already asked me about it and I said, no," she said walking over to him as Lucius stood up and held her hand, interlocking their fingers.
"But why?" He asked, flabbergasted.
She waved her arm. "Oh Draco, you know I can't stand that sport. I'd rather watch birds twittering than spend a moment of my day to either watch or hear about that rubbish."
"Fine" Draco muttered. "I don't know what's wrong with you"
"What did you say" she narrowed her eyes.
"Nothing!"
…
A Few Hours Later
Draco and Lucius floated down to the snowy ground before landing softly. "You sure you haven't been practicing" Lucius asked, as he perched his broom on his shoulder.
Draco shot him a toothy grin before answering. "They don't let you on a broom at Hogwarts except during class and even then they teach these basic drills that I learnt when I was five"
"Well, at this rate, you'll have me beat by next year" Draco's eyes lit up as they trudged their way forward.
"You think so?"
"Oh absolutely" You're much better than I ever was at your age. You're as they say 'a natural'" or is it a prodigy" He said squinting his eyes.
"I think both works" Draco remarked.
"You're right" Lucius said as he turned left.
"Father?" Draco pointed towards the manor that was a few hundred feet to the right.
"I just thought we'd go for a stroll in the forest. C'mon son. Don't worry we'll be back by dinner." Draco shrugged his shoulder and followed his father.
They entered the forest that surrounded the manor from every corner. All the leaves on the trees were covered with snow leaving only the base of the branches untouched. They walked along the narrow path.
"So I heard that Potter made it to the team?" Lucius asked, turning his head towards his son.
Draco kicked a rock on his path before replying. "Yeah." He added after a few seconds. "He's really good."
"Hmm" Lucius hummed. "Did you talk to him?" His tone and demeanour entirely different from before. There was no levity in them.
Draco didn't need to look at him to know how serious he was. He had been dreading this conversation ever since their previous talk that took place a day before he was to leave for Hogwarts.
"Umm I did" He said nervously before looking at him, afraid that he would disappoint his father. "I said everything the way you told me to but he rejected my offer. Said that he would decide who he wanted to be friends with."
"And how did you react?" he asked, quirking an eyebrow.
"Just the way you said. I was really nasty towards him and his friends. Especially the muggleborn"
"Muggleborn?" Draco nodded his head. "Huh. Potter men and their fascination with muggleborn's"
Draco looked at the ground as they continued moving forward. A small clearing could be seen ahead. "I said some really nasty things to her." Lucius looked at him and noticed that he seemed to be struggling to express what he wanted to say.
"And? That shouldn't affect you"
"But-"He took a deep breath before he met his eyes once more. "I called her what mother said I should never call a muggleborn."
Lucius looked ahead as he realized what he meant. "Don't worry son, your mother won't know about it." Draco nodded his head, feeling some weight being lifted of his shoulders. "And don't hesitate to use it again, you hear me" Draco gulped before nodding his head.
"Draco?" Draco watched as his lips curled at the corner. "You did good son" Lucius said, stopping in front of him and putting a hand on his shoulder.
"I did?" Lucius nodded his head but Draco wasn't sure why it still felt wrong doing and saying all those things. It made him happy that the person he admired and looked up to the most in the world, his father, was happy with his actions, but a feeling that he couldn't quite yet identify, sort of a melancholic sadness, took a small place in his heart.
"You just keep doing what I tell you and I give you my word that nothing can stop you from you achieving greatness okay" he kneeled down as Draco stared into his eyes before slowly nodding his head. "Nothing matters to me more than you and your mother, son. I just want what's best for you, okay" Lucius winked at him before standing up and pointing with his eye towards the clearing.
Draco turned his head and saw a baby rabbit scuttling around. His lips curled into a smile which was wiped of his face a second later. "Kill it"
"What?" He gasped, looking up at him with his eyes comically wide in shock. He couldn't believe what he just heard. No, he must've misheard him. "You have your wand yes?"
Draco wasn't sure how to respond but knew that lying to his father wouldn't go well for him. Even though he never once even came close to using any sort of violence towards him, it still put the fear of merlin in him if his lie was found out. He nodded his head.
"Yes, but I'm not allowed to use spells outside Hogwarts"
"Don't worry about that son. You're with me. Now take your wand out and point at the rabbit. Go on son" He added when Draco stayed still. Draco took his wand out of its holster and turned towards the rabbit who was now inching closer towards them, completely unaware of what was about to take place.
Draco's arm was trembling and his entire body was shaking. His breathing was coming in short gasps as he once again looked back at his father. "You know the spell Draco" he said calmly. "Hurry, it's moving"
Draco turned back around and saw that it had gone back towards the clearing. A small flicker of hope filled his heart as he waited and hoped that the creature simply made a run for his life. His lips curved at the corner as it was getting further away and seemed to be headed towards the bushes on the right. Draco released a shaky breath and lowered his wand. His shoulders sagged in relief as the rabbit was about to vanish into the bushes.
He was about to turn around when-"Avada Kedavra" a jet of green light shot from behind him and struck its prey. Draco watched in horror as the rabbit crumbled to the ground, where it lay motionless.
"Well, better luck next time son" Lucius said bending down and picking up Draco's wand that fell from his hand. Draco's mouth was hanging open and his eyes were trained on the rabbit's dead form. "We'll work on that some other time"
Lucius put the wand back in his hand and closed his fist before standing up and walking towards the rabbit. "C'mon son, let's take it back to the manor. I'm sure you know the levitation charm."
Draco didn't heard a word he said. His ears hadn't stop ringing from the blast of the spell.
…
"Thank you Dobby" Narcissa smiled at the elf, as he set the table for dinner. She took her seat at one end of the table.
"Oh good, I'm completely famished" Lucius came bundling down the stairs before taking the seat opposite his wife.
"Where's Draco?" she inquired, looking at Dobby.
Her question was answered as Draco slowly made his way down the stairs. His head was turned down. A look of concern came over her face as she watched him take a seat in the middle. "Everything alright, sweetheart?" she spoke softly.
He nodded his head, still not looking up. She turned to her husband who shrugged his shoulders in response.
"Dobby, whenever you're ready?" Lucius said.
Dobby's ears perked up and as he gave a nervous chuckle. "Sorry master, Right away master" With a snap of his fingers, the covers were lifted of the food"
"Thank you Dobby" he said, before filling his plate with meat.
"Is that rabbit?" Narcissa turned to Dobby with a frown.
"Yes Madam"
"But I thought we were having boiled potatoes and beans today"
"Oh you must forgive me for that dear, you see Draco and I went for a little hunt today after flying and we didn't wanted it to go to waste, did we son" He turned to Draco who lifted his head and nodded.
Narcissa inhaled sharply as she noticed tear stains on his cheeks. She looked back at the meat presented in front of her before turning her gaze toward her husband. Lucius leaned over to reach for the salt when he saw his wife shooting him a deadly glare.
"What?" he asked.
She took deep breaths to calm herself because she didn't wanted to make a scene in front of her son. "I think I will have those boiled potatoes and beans Dobby" she said through clenched teeth.
"Right away Madam"
"And make a plate for Draco as well" she added.
"Yes Madam" he responded before vanishing with a pop.
Lucius shrugged his shoulder. "Suit yourself. You're missing out though" Narcissa clenched her fists tightly as she watched him cut down the meat before it disappeared into his mouth.
…..
Narcissa shut the door behind her with more force than required as she entered their suite. Lucius, who was in the middle of buttoning down his white sleeve shirt looked at her through the mirror.
"Be careful, dear. You don't want to hurt yourself"
Narcissa made a circular motion over her head with her wand, casting a silencing charm around the room before throwing it on the bed. "HOW COULD YOU" she screamed.
Lucius undid the cuffs on his shirt before replying calmly. "He told you, did he?"
"No he didn't, and he didn't had to. You think I wouldn't find out. Of what you put him through. I knew it the instance I looked at his face" She broke down into tears before sitting on the bed. "My poor baby. He looked so scared, so helpless" she wailed.
Lucius sighed before turning towards her. "Narcissa, you know it gives me no joy to make him go through all this, but it's necessary"
"No, it's not" she shouted, glaring at him before her tears took over once again. Her shoulders shook with silent sobs.
Lucius walked over to her before kneeling. He put his hand on her leg. "You know that I'm only doing this to make him strong, so that he is ready"
"Ready for what" she exhaled tiredly before her eyes lit up with fury once more. "For your false beliefs"
Lucius's face hardened as he responded. "They are not false, Narcissa. There have been sightings that are linked to him. Believe me sweetheart, he will return"
"So what" she spat viciously.
He backed away slightly. "So what?" he whispered in disbelief. He stood up and for the first time in their spat his face exuded anger. "So that he knows that we're by his side. That we will support him no matter what. That we didn't betray him." He shouted before taking deep breaths. "So that our son is ready by the time he joins the Dark Lord's ranks."
Narcissa's face lost all its colour, her expressions that of horror as she stood up on shaky legs. Lucius tried to steady her but she swatted his hand away. "Get away from me" she screamed. "You would do that to our son, turn him into one of them, turn him into-"
"I won't, but he would." He screamed before running a hand through his hair. "And he will kill us and our son if we don't do as he commands" he added.
"Oh Merlin" she whimpered, as she once again plopped down on the bed. She covered her face with her hands as Lucius closed his eyes and craned his neck back. "Where did that boy go I fell in love with?" Lucius opened his eyes and locked eyes with her as more tears streamed down her eyes. "What happened to that boy whose only purpose in life was to make me happy, who cried when he held his son in his arms when he was born and made a promise that no harm will ever come to him?"
They stared at each other in silence before Lucius spoke. "That boy?" he asked nodding his head. "You want to know what happened to that boy" He sat right beside her and took her hand in his, intertwining their fingers. "That boy couldn't cope with the challenges of life so he became a man. You were wrong about one thing though" he said as they looked into each other's eyes. "My main purpose in life was to keep you safe, and the only way I could do that was to join him.
It didn't matter if I didn't believe in his cause. I did it all to protect you or he would've killed you and I would do it again." He let out a bitter laugh. "I still remember it like it was yesterday, I never mentioned it you before but do you know the first thing he said to me when he marked me? He said that if I ever thought about turning against him, he would torture you in front of my eyes. And that's all it took. That thought never crossed my mind ever again and everything I did since then, every horribly thing, it didn't matter to me because I knew that you were safe."
Narcissa's eyes filled with tears once again as she leaned her head on his shoulder. "And that's what I am trying to do now. I want to give our son every possible chance to live his best life under these circumstances."
"Maybe we should just leave" she spoke softly.
"And go where. There is no place he can't find us" He took in a shaky breath before continuing. "Look, I know that I'm not smart or brave like you and Draco-"His voice broke in the end.
"Don't say that" she interjected.
"Its true honey, so let's not pretend that it isn't" She wiped away a tear that rolled down his cheek. "This is the best I can do or the only thing I know how to do." He let out a chuckle. "I'm sure at the moment you must be regretting why you didn't say yes to that Lupin fellow when he asked you out before me"
Narcissa let out a teary laugh before responding. "Oh I've regretted it many times before"
They both chuckled before Lucius looked her in the eyes. "But why didn't you?"
"Oh mostly it was just house prejudice I guess. I saw you standing right behind him with that pathetic puppy dog look and thought, why not. Plus you had flowers with you and he and he came empty handed."
"That's why he reached you before me you know"
"Oh really" she quirked an eyebrow.
"Of course" he scoffed "I knew how to charm a lady"
"Maybe that's why I stuck with you for so long. Because of your charm"
"Maybe, or maybe because of that contract I made you sign" Narcissa's laugh filled the room once again as Lucius's eyes shined with love and fondness as he gazed at her.
On the other end of the manor a lonely boy was shedding tears on his bed.
….
Hogwarts Castle, Evening
"Well that was fun" Ron panted as he ran a hand through his hair. Small round balls of snow, the size of peas, fell off his thick red locks.
"I wish Hermione were here with us though" Harry said, as he took of his red beanie and cleaned it before putting it back. There jumpers were soaking wet with snow trailing down their trousers. "Plus she would know the spell to clean all this mess"
"Yeah" Ron said before his eyes turned wide and he faced Harry. "We could double team against her" he said excitedly.
"I don't think that would end well for us" They turned a corner and made their way towards the grand staircase.
"You're right"
They entered the Gryffindor common room and plopped on the couch on opposite ends. They were extremely tired and their chests heaved with shallow breaths from the recent activity and within a few moments both friends dozed off with their heads hanging of the side of the couch.
Harry's eyes fluttered for a moment as he slowly opened them. The first thing he noticed was the fire burning brightly, casting its warm glow on him. He turned his head and saw Ron still sleeping with his mouth opened and his head at an odd angle.
A mischievous smile came over his lips as he slowly shifted closer to him before leaning his body forward toward his face.
"RON, WAKE UP!" Ron screamed in a high pitch voice as he jumped of the couch and landed with his back hitting the floor.
"I thought we were even" Ron shouted, shooting daggers at his friend who was laughing uncontrollably.
He got up from the floor and sat back on the couch as Harry's laughter subsided. "Now we are"
"Whatever" muttered Ron, as he let out a yawn. He craned his neck and looked at the grandfather clock. "Blimey! We slept for two hours"
"Yeah" Harry stood up, stretching his arms above his head and arching his back. "C'mon let's get something to eat before going to the library."
Ron nodded his head, standing up. "Don't forget your cloak" he added.
…
"I don't understand why we are moving at a snail's pace. My back is hurting" grumbled Ron from behind Harry.
They were both under the invisibility cloak, which easily covered both of them as they slowly made their way down the corridor that led to the library. They waited until they were the only two left in the great hall after dinner, not that there were many around except the teachers and a dozen other students before making their way out.
"Ron! I told you the cloak doesn't mute out the sound we make while under it. So just be quiet because we're nearly there"
Harry quickened his pace slightly as they neared the library. "Alright, we're here" he said, seeing the door half way opened. "Be careful, we don't want to raise suspicion"
Even though no one could see them, Harry still peeked inside purely because of habit. He saw Madam Pince at her desk which was situated just to the right of the door on the opposite end.
"C'mon" he whispered to Ron who nodded his head which he realised later that Harry couldn't see.
"Okay"
Harry slowly pushed the door couple of inches, just enough so they could squeeze through. But that was enough as Madam Pince's head shot up towards the door and she squinted her eyes.
Harry froze on the spot, fearing they had been spotted. After another tension filled five seconds that felt like an eternity to Harry she went back to her work. He released a sigh of relief before moving through the door with Ron right behind him.
Slowly but safely they they finally reached the far right end of the library where the restricted section was located.
An hour passed by as they skimmed through ten books each but found nothing on Nicolas Flamel.
They put the books back in their places. "Let's check that shelf" Ron pointed towards the shelf just above them.
"Okay" Harry reached out to grab the book on the top left corner when he knocked the lamp that was sitting on the middle shelf.
The sound of the glass shattering made them freeze on the spot. They looked at each other with fear in their eyes when they heard Madam Pince shout out "Who's there?"
Luckily for them the lamp wasn't lit. Harry hastily grabbed his cloak and covered both of them with it as they heard the clanking of heels getting louder.
"Let's get out of here" whispered Ron. "She'll know it's us"
Just because of the fear that even with the cloak hiding them, Madam Pince will spot them if she got close to them, Harry nodded his head before they crouched down and walked towards the gap between the shelf and the wall. They hid behind the shelf when they saw Madam Pince reach the restricted section before slowly moving ahead.
They breathed a sigh of relief as they exited the library. "That was close" muttered Ron.
"You don't say" They turned left at the end of the corridor and continued ahead.
They stepped off the stairs to the fourth floor and turned right. "My back's killing me from walking so slow" moaned Ron.
"I think we can take the cloak off now" Harry said before he removed the cloak and they started walking normally again.
"Let's not do the again and just wait till Hermione returns" Ron said, sounding tired.
"I agree" They turned another corner.
They were about halfway across the hallway when they saw Mrs Norris, Filch's cat, up ahead at the end of the corridor. They stopped walking as her eyes landed on them. She screeched loudly and started running towards them.
"What is it my dear?" they heard Filch's voice.
"Quick, in here" Harry had no time to move as Ron dragged him into a room before shutting the door and locking it. They stepped back, holding their breaths in as they heard Filch on the other side trying to open the door.
"C'mon, you silly bugger, open up" they heard him shout the last part in frustration as he started banging on it. He banged on the door for another five times before stopping. "C'mon love, let's get out of here" they released a sigh of relief when they heard his footsteps leaving.
Ron put a hand over his heart as he sat down on the floor. "That was too close"
Harry looked around the room and noticed that the room was empty except a couple of chairs lined against one wall and a tall mirror placed in the middle of the room.
He walked towards it out of pure curiosity before stopping in front of it. He looked at the frame which was golden in colour and had small intricate markings all over it before looking into the mirror.
His eyes turned wide when he saw his reflection smiling at him. He was still in shock of what he just witnessed before two figures materialized on either side of his reflection. He felt his legs give out before his knees hit the floor when he realized who the figures were.
A gasp left his lips when he locked eyes with his mother who had a warm and kind smile on her face. He then shifted his gaze towards his father whose smile matched his mother's but there was also a mischievousness to it and a twinkle in his eye that he had only seen in one other person before.
"Ron!" he shouted.
"Ron jumped up in alarm before running towards him. "What?" his voice was laced with panic as his eyes landed on Harry before looking around.
He walked towards Harry's kneeling form before stopping beside him. He saw tears streaming down his friend's face before crouching down to his level. 'Harry!, what's wrong?" concern shining in his eyes as he put a hand on Harry's shoulder.
Harry didn't say a word and just pointed towards the mirror. Ron looked at the mirror before turning back to Harry with confusion. "What?"
Harry finally tore his gaze from the mirror before looking at Ron with disbelief. "Don't you see?"
"See what?" He glanced a look at the mirror once more before adding. "I see our reflection, that's all"
Harry's forehead scrunched in confusion at his words before he looked at the mirror and once again saw the smiling faces of his parents.
"Look again!, How could you not see it?" he exclaimed, getting angry.
'Harry, I told you what I saw" His voice rising as well as he faced the mirror. "Look I'm looking at it right now and just see us."
Harry stuttered a few times before whispering "But how can this be possible?" he was in deep thought for a few seconds before looking at Ron. "Stand here."
He dragged Ron to the spot he just vacated. "Now look' he said pointing towards the mirror.
Ron rolled his eyes as he sighed in exasperation before once again looking at the mirror. "See I told you that-" He stopped talking as his eyes turned wide. "No way" he gasped.
Harry smiled in satisfaction as he walked up to him. "Now do you believe me?"
Ron nodded his head with his eyes still transfixed at the mirror as his smile got bigger. Harry turned towards the mirror as well and saw his and Ron's reflection staring back at him. "What?" he said, confused.
"Harry, do you see that? I am the quidditch captain, and, and, look at all those trophies" Harry sharply turned his head in his direction. "I am older too and tall" added Ron, as he kept staring at the mirror in awe.
"But that's not what I saw" Harry added quietly.
"Yeah, what did you see? You were crying" Ron said, looking at him.
Harry looked at the floor as seconds passed by before speaking. "My parents" he said in a broken voice.
Ron's gaze turned soft as he looked at his friend sympathetically. "I'm sorry mate" he put an arm around his shoulder before adding. "Hey, why don't we take turns looking at it? How about you take the first turn and tell me about everything you see"
Harry looked at him in surprise. "Really!" Ron smiled, nodding his head in response.
"Yeah, it would be fun. It's not like we got anything better to do" he added with a shrug.
Harry's eyes shone with happiness as he smiled in return, eternally grateful for his friends support even though he knew that he was doing all this for him.
"Okay" Ron moved as Harry took his place before sitting beside him.
"Alright, now tell me what you see"
…..
They reach the door to the common room after spending an hour in the abandoned classroom, where they described in detail to each other every little detail they witnessed the mirror.
Harry was even more grateful to Ron as his thoughts drifted back to how Ron would spend less than half the time in front of the mirror than him so that he could watch his parents for longer period of time.
He also recalled how at the end Ron didn't say anything but simply sat beside him in silence as he continued looking in the mirror, going well past his turn.
"Shrivel Shrimps" Ron said the password before the fat lady let them in. They entered the common room. Harry looked at the Christmas tree which was still shining with all the ornaments as the Hogwarts express continued circling around it.
"I'm tired. Let's get to bed" Ron said as he headed towards the stairs to the boys dormitories.
Harry opened his mouth to agree with him when his eyes landed on the envelope addressed to him that he forgot to open in the morning. Instead he said "You go on. I'll join you in a second"
"Okay" yawned Ron, as he started climbing the stairs.
Harry went over to the table and picked up the envelope before sitting on the floor near the fire as it was the only light in the room. He was once again reminded of how the envelope seemed more akin to muggle telegram as he opened it and took out the letter.
Dear Harry,
It's me, Hermione, which I'm sure you must have figured out by now. Merry Christmas and I hope this letter finds you in good health which knowing you I'm not entirely sure about. You must be wondering how I sent you this letter because I don't own an owl. Well, you see I asked Fred yesterday before my train ride if I he could send Pig to my house at night because I had a letter to send you see.
Even though I could've said all these things to you in person, I just couldn't find the courage to do so as I was not sure how you would react. Alright here it goes. I just want you to promise that you won't be angry after reading this and that we'll still be friends.
Harry, you remember when you gave me your transfiguration notebook to copy notes from, well when I finished copying them and was about to put it in my bag, a page fell to the ground.
I was slightly confused by it because none of the pages seemed loose and also it was folded, so clearly it wasn't part of the book but something you had put in it.
You have to believe me when I say that I wasn't going to open it and was just going to put it back. So I did exactly that and opened the back of the book to put the paper back in, which I didn't, as I'm sure you know why.
First, let me just say that I love all your drawings. I was in awe of all of them as I went through them. The first one I saw was the one you drew of the castle. I absolutely loved it and from that point on I couldn't stop myself. I particularly loved and laughed at the one you did of Ron, you even got his expression perfect. But as I'm sure you know, which one was my favourite.
I don't particularly like pictures taken of me as I'm very shy and self-conscious, which you probably already know. But I don't know why but I couldn't stop myself from keeping that drawing when I gave the book back to you or why I spent all my free time in the library which if you remember I used to say that I was going to do some research on Nicolas Flamel, but in truth was going to research for a spell that could duplicate the drawing.
I nearly lost all hope when I finally found the spell three days before the Christmas holidays. It's called Geminio by the way, but don't use it because it is a NEWT level spell.
So I duplicated the exact replica of your drawing and put the original in your book when you were arguing with Ron about quidditch during transfiguration.
I promise your secret's safe with me and again I'm really sorry if you're angry with me for doing what I did but if you could see the huge smile that comes over my face and feel the happiness the fills my heart every time I look at it, you will understand why I did it.
So as a token of my appreciation I'm giving you this locket that my grandmother gave to me last year on my birthday. She said that it would protect me from all the bad things in the world. I hope it works in the same way for you.
Your dear friend,
Hermione.
Harry slowly folded the letter as he finished reading it. His mind in overload from all the different emotions it was experiencing at the moment as he picked up the envelope before taking out a golden, heart shaped locket.
He didn't know how long he stared at it as he tried to juggle through his emotions. He felt happy, scared, conflicted, at ease, exposed, and something else he didn't know how to define. But it was a good feeling, of that he was sure. More than good, actually.
Slowly, his lips curled at the corner and he knew what he had to do.
He got up and ran towards the dormitory before returning couple of minutes later. He hastily wrote something on the back of Hermione's letter before putting it back in the envelope along with the locket. He put another piece of paper which was folded in half in a bigger envelope which had the Hogwarts crest on it.
He grabbed his invisibility cloak and ran towards the door. He put the cloak on before jogging towards the staircase that led to the upper floor.
He pushed open the gate to the owlery and went to Hedwig's cage before opening it. She flew out and landed on his shoulder.
"Hey girl, take this to Hermione. Oh wait, I just realized I don't know her address" The words had barely left his mouth as she took off and flew into the night sky.
Harry watched her fly with a huge smile on his face till he couldn't see her anymore.
…
Granger Residence, London
A knock on the window woke Hermione up. She squinted her eyes as she turned her head to look at it. Another knock made her get up as she slipped her feet in her pink slippers before walking towards the window.
"Hedwig!" she exclaimed, seeing the snowy white owl floating on the other side of her window. She opened the window before Hedwig entered her room. She perched herself upon Hermione's bed before dropping the packages on it.
Fear coursed through Hermione's veins as her eyes landed on the envelope she sent to Harry. Why did he sent it back? Then she looked at the bigger envelope and her fear doubled. Did he want his drawing back?
She walked towards her bed and sat on the edge as Hedwig nipped at her shoulder. She gave her a small smile before Hedwig took off and exited through the window. Hermione watched it go with confusion before opening her envelope.
A gasp escaped her lips as she saw that Harry also returned her locket. She took out the letter to see if he wrote anything on it and her suspicions was confirmed when she turned the page around.
Dear Hermione,
I don't have much to say as you know that I'm not particularly good with words. Please don't be mad that I am returning your locket, it's not that I don't appreciate it but because it means much more to you and I'm sure your grandmother would agree with me on it. Also I have you to protect me.
And secondly, I was never a fan of second hand stuff or duplicates, so I thought that you should have the original.
Your friend,
Harry.
P.S. I got the most amazing and coolest gift on Christmas. Can't wait to show it to you.
Hermione's smile got larger as she kept reading and gave out a small chuckle by the end.
She looked at the envelope with the Hogwarts crest on it with a huge smile on her face. She opened it before taking out a folded piece of paper. She unfolded it before smoothening it with her hands.
She removed her slippers before crawling towards her pillow and taking out a similar, but not exactly, paper from under it. She placed the duplicate on her bedside table before getting under the covers. The pale moonlight coming through her window was enough for her to make out the drawing that took her breath away when she first saw it.
It showed a girl, with bushy brown hair, sitting on a chair that looked eerily similar to the one in the Gryffindor common room reading a large tome that was in her lap.
Hermione once again memorized the drawing in her mind as her eyes closed and she dozed into the land of dreams with a smile on her lips.
A/N: So guys, let me know what you thought. I really want to know your thoughts so don't shy away to comment. I'll see you in the next chapter as the story picks up some cadence. Stay safe and healthy.