Disclaimer: All this is owned by either JK Rowling or CS Lewis.

A/N: Ok, in my previous chapter I said this, but for those who missed it, I merged the character Eustace into the story. He was really around this age just a little after World War II. Sorry for all those who I did not make it totally clear to. Eustace is a wizard for all those who are wondering, but he is muggle born so does not know that he is helping the Boy-Who-Lived. Oh, and I am making this chapter about double the length. I am so proud of how long it is! Enjoy! Oh, and a special thanks to my beta Devonny Rose, who points out just how many dumb mistakes I can make!

Harry Potter was running down the street gasping for air as he was trying as hard as he could to get away from Dudley and his friends. They must be in top form today to be able to keep up so well with Harry. Or perhaps Harry was a bit ill. It wouldn't be surprising. Nobody could be amazingly swift all the time while being malnourished and living in the cupboard under the stairs. Whatever the reason, though, Dudley's gang was gaining on him.

Harry decided that the only thing he could do was to perhaps run into the park in the hopes that there would be enough people there to stop the bullies from attacking him. Maybe somebody who didn't know him would aide him. Not likely, but was better than giving up without a fight.

Harry raced past the slides and the swings and darted towards the woods. There were people in the park but nobody seemed to be caring very much about him. So he figured his best bet would be to try and lose the other boys into the woods. Harry, however, wasn't so lucky as to reach them. He was almost there when one of the boys grabbed a hold of his oversized shirt and pulled him down.

Harry then began to hurt all over in varying degrees of pain. He vaguely registered that his glasses were broken. The punches, kicks, and slaps seemed to go on forever. Unconsciously, Harry curled himself into a ball and shut his eyes as tight as he could. He then began trying to block out everything around him and think of something happy.

His thoughts flickered from Ms. Watson hugging him and telling him it would be okay, to Mr. Snape healing his ankle, and finally Eustace telling him how magic did exist. Eustace. What a nice guy. Harry wondered if he would still want to be friends with him after this. If he heard how Harry didn't deserve for people to like him and how he was a freak, surely the older boy wouldn't speak to him any more. If only Eustace was there now.

"You there! What do you think you're doing?" a voice said, sounding strangely like Eustace. 'Funny, I'm imagining things now, does that mean I'd have to go to a crazy house?' Harry wouldn't have to wonder, though, because at that moment, he stopped feeling people hitting him. The pain was still there, but at least they had stopped. Harry opened his eyes and saw the worried face of Eustace staring down at him. Harry then promptly passed out.

~*~

How could anyone do this to someone else? Much less such a small and frail looking boy. Wait, he knew that face! It was Harry Potter, the little boy who he had been partnered with in school. Eustace was horrified. Who could hurt such a great kid? He seemed really nice when he was sitting with him in his classroom. Eustace had a lot of questions, but at the moment, he had to get some help for Harry.

Who was there? He didn't know where Harry lived and didn't think Harry was in any mood to tell him. There was no way that he could get Harry all the way to the local hospital. His father was away on a business trip and his mother was most likely out buying herself something, not that they would be of any help anyway. He supposed that he could take Harry to his teacher. Yes, that would be the best plan.

Eustace reached down to see if Harry was awake and perhaps could walk himself with only a little bit of help. Harry blearily opened his eyes and when Eustace asked if he could walk on his own, Harry nodded in the affirmative; then slowly and unsteadily stood up. Eustace reached over and grabbed Harry as he almost toppled over. Harry remained awake, though, and he and Eustace slowly made their way to the school.

Once they had finally arrived, Eustace let out an exasperated moan. Harry could barely tell where he was and wasn't really understanding why Eustace was so upset, but let it go. Eustace, in the mean time, was looking around to see if he could find anyone else to help. He decided there was nothing for it and began walking back down the hall to try and get Harry to his house. At least there he would be able to let Harry sit down.

On the way out of the school, though, Eustace passed his own classroom and saw that Mr. Snape was inside grading papers. An idea suddenly hit him. He could ask him for help. Sure, he wasn't the nicest guy in the world, but at least he was an adult and would surely know what to do. Eustace leaned Harry against the wall and almost ran into his teacher's room, earning a glare from the stern man.

"What is it, Mr. Scrubb? I do not believe it is customary for students to be at school after hours," Mr. Snape coldly inquired. Eustace took a deep breath to calm himself and reminded himself that Harry needed help.

"Please, sir, Harry is hurt. I need someone to help him!"

The normally stern man looked at him with concern and requested, "Harry who?"

"Harry Potter, sir, he's my buddy and I found him in the park after I chased away a bunch of bullies beating him up! Please, sir, he looks really bad!" Eustace let out frantically.

~*~

"Lead the way, Mr. Scrubb," He replied urgently. Eustace brought him to where Harry was lying bruised and beaten. For a moment, Severus stared at Harry in shock. Where was the boy who was spoiled and revered by all? Why were people who should have worshipped the ground he walked on, beating him up? How could they do this to him? He quickly snapped out of it, though, realizing that he could think about these questions later. Right now, Harry needed help.

He cautiously lifted the almost unconscious boy, and led him and Eustace to his car. Eustace sat in the back with Harry and was whispering comforting thoughts to him. Severus was glad he thought to bring along the other boy, although he had the strange feeling that he would have insisted on coming. He had to stop thinking about all that for a moment, though, as he had to concentrate on the road. Although he had been driving a car for a little over two months now, he still had some difficulties as it was the first time in his life he had to drive a car.

He supposed that he did drive decently well since the boys didn't mention anything, but then again, they also might not be in the best condition to complain of his driving skills. Pushing aside these irrelevant thoughts, Severus pulled into his driveway and turned off the car. He went around to the back seat and picked Harry up to take him into his house. Scrubb was following behind, but Severus barely even registered the fact.

He brought Harry inside and laid him down on the couch in his living room. Harry seemed properly grateful as he snuggled further down to get more comfortable. Severus walked up to his secret room upstairs and opened the door. He rummaged around for the proper potions for a moment and then dashed back down the steps. He administered the potions quickly and watched happily as Harry's cuts and bruises healed, and Harry was able to sit up properly.

"Mr. Snape?" he asked sleepily.

"Yes, Harry?" he replied in the softest tone he could manage, which in reality wasn't very soft at all, but he felt very proud that he had managed that much.

"Thank you," Harry simply stated. His eyes shone with sincerity and Severus felt some odd tingling in his chest. He could not quite figure out why, but he ignored it. 'How young is too young to get heart burn?' he wondered. Harry looked pleased when he merely nodded in reply. Then, as if remembering that he had to be somewhere very important, Harry leapt up and stuttered, "I- I'm sorry, sir, but I have to get home. I'm fine! Thanks again."

With that, Harry left the house as quickly as he could, leaving no chance for Severus or Eustace to catch him and tell him to be careful. Severus remembered at that moment that Eustace was there. Eustace had seen him give Harry those potions and had seen how they had healed him so quickly. He knew what the boy was going to say before he even opened his mouth.

"Sir, what did you give Harry? How did he heal so fast?" Severus sighed, he knew this would come up, but he was hoping it wouldn't. At least all those years of spying had taught him to make up some good lies fast.

"Mr. Scrubb, those were prototype medications that I had created myself. They are not on the market as of yet and I would appreciate your discretion in this case as I do not want them stolen," Severus told the boy. Okay, so it was not the best lie ever told, but at least he wouldn't have to Obliviate the boy as he seemed to, albeit reluctantly, buy it.

Eustace then walked out of his house, thanking his teacher for his help. Severus once again nodded in response and followed the boy out shortly after. He needed to go back and get the tests that he was grading. It would not do for some wayward child to take them. Severus also made plans to tell Harry's teacher what happened. Perhaps the woman would be able to do something that muggles did when their children were being bullied.

~*~*~

Ms. Watson was horrified and fed up! She was positive that those people, if you could even call them that, were abusing Harry. He never had a decent lunch, his clothes were always at least three sizes too big, he all of the sudden did worse in school once she spoke about how Harry was brighter than Dudley, he didn't get any proper medical attention, and he was slowly losing his spirit. They didn't even seem to care when she tried to tell them how Dudley was getting his friends to beat Harry up and harass him. She couldn't stand to see that. She had to make sure that something was done. Her conscience would let her do no less.

Ms. Watson informed Child Protective Services about how Harry was a suspected abuse case. She was positive that once the proper authorities were involved, Harry would be taken away from those horrid people and put into some proper care. If she knew Harry, then he would be a little upset and embarrassed that people knew about what happened to him, but he would understand one day that it was for the best.

What Ms. Watson did not count on was being called to the principal's office a week after she had informed people of Harry's abuse. She walked into the room a little wary, but glad. Perhaps they wanted her to testify for Harry in court or something. She was sorely mistaken. The principal was sitting in his chair looking more serious than she had ever seen him. There were two men standing in the corner of the room, obviously waiting for her to enter.

"Have a seat Ms. Watson," the principal ordered. Ms. Watson gulped and sat down. Did something horrible already happen to Harry? Were they trying to let her down easily? She was practically at the edge of her seat waiting for them to inform her of what was going on.

"It has come to my attention that you have informed Child Protective Services that a Mr. Harry Potter was being abused by his family, Vernon and Petunia Dursley. These are some strong allegations that you have in this report, Ms. Watson. In fact, that is precisely why these two gentlemen went to speak with the Dursley's. Are you aware that they have found no reason to believe that the boy is being abused?" the principal spoke icily.

Ms. Watson's world reeled. How could they not have found signs of abuse? These people were trained to detect even the smallest hint of a possibility of abuse. Why did they not see it?

"Are you also aware, Ms. Watson, that you will no longer be able to work here in this building?" the principal continued. What was he talking about? Why would she not be able to work there? She voiced her thoughts to the men sitting in front of her.

"You have falsely accused a decent family of abusing their nephew! This is the type of thing that could cause you to end your career as a teacher. If you are willing to keep your mouth closed, however, we might be able to transfer you to a different school district where you can start fresh. Think very carefully, Ms. Watson," the principal finished coldly.

Keep her mouth shut? Why did it matter if she did that? They didn't want her to talk about Harry. They didn't want anybody to know that she had found signs of abuse! Were these men bribed by the Dursley's? She knew that they were horrible people, but to do that to a child! How could they! She wouldn't stand for that!

But, if she spoke up, she would lose her job. She wouldn't be able to find a new job as a teacher for a very long time, if ever. What would she do? She had to support herself. There were other children who needed to be helped. She could find others. She would help others. After all, she didn't need a case like this following her around wherever she went. She made her choice and numbly agreed with the principal's terms and walked out of the office in a strangely dazed state.

She knew Harry was being abused, but there was nothing she could do about it besides try and save her own skin. As cold as it sounded, that was the way the world worked. She could not just march into the Dursley's and demand that they hand over Harry, or some other ill-conceived notion such as that. As an authority figure and a citizen, she had to follow the rules that society set out for her. It was that or be an outcast, and that would not do any good for anybody.

She couldn't let Harry's false case ruin her career. She wouldn't let it. What Ms. Watson did not know was that Harry's case would follow her around for the rest of her life. She would always be haunted with nightmares of a small, skinny, wide-eyed, messy-haired, innocent, and trusting boy, asking her for help. Ms. Watson would remember Harry Potter for the rest of her life, long after Harry, himself, had forgotten her, she would still be haunted. Ms. Watson couldn't know that she had just made the worst mistake of her life.

~*~

Ms. Watson was scheduled to leave after the Christmas Break. On the last day of class, she had a Christmas Party and informed all the children that soon they would have a new teacher and that she hoped that they would all be on their best behavior for whoever it was.

As the children were leaving, she asked Harry to stay behind. Harry, of course, waited patiently for the last person to leave the room. Once only he and Ms. Watson were left, she signaled for him to come closer. Ms. Watson had a strange, tired look about her. Harry was wary, but nevertheless moved forward to stand in front of her.

Ms. Watson knelt down on one knee, put her hands on his shoulders and looked straight into his eyes.

"Harry, even though I am leaving, I want you to know that you are a marvelous boy. You deserve the world and more," Ms. Watson began. But Harry was looking confused. Why was his teacher acting this way? What did she mean? Of course he didn't deserve anything, everyone knew that! Ms. Watson saw his skepticism, though, and addressed it.

"I mean it, Harry, and I want you to promise me something. I want you to always remember that you are special, and no matter what anyone ever tells you, you are loved. There is always someone who will care about you. Promise me you will remember and never give up!" Ms. Watson now had a desperate look in her eye that scared Harry.

What she was saying was frightening, but Harry wished so much that it was true. He wanted to believe that there was always going to be someone who cared for him. He hoped that it was true. Ms. Watson was right, he wouldn't give up. So what if he had to live with the Dursley's? He could survive! He would be able to get through it! With this in mind, Harry promised her, no matter what happened, he would get through it. It didn't mean that he had to all of the sudden like what was happening, it only meant that he would survive. That was it.

With Harry's promise in mind, Ms. Watson relaxed visibly, but was at the same time still very tense. She still could feel a tingle of doubt. She couldn't help but feel, as Harry walked out of the classroom, that she had traded something superficial for the life of an innocent and wonderful little boy, who would perhaps never again have the chance to have a happy childhood.

This thought had been eating at her, but nevertheless, she had made her decision, and nothing she did after that point could reverse her betrayal towards a little boy who had put all of his trust in her and still believed that she would do whatever she could to help him. Her failure was already wearing down on her heart, and she only carried her burden for an hour or so. She assumed it would go away with time, yet she was mistaken, she would never forget the Boy-Who-She-Failed.

~*~

Harry opened the door to Number Four Privet Drive to hear Dudley excitedly explain his day to his parents. He was speaking of all the sweets they got to eat during the party, when he saw Harry. He smiled cruelly and told his parents that their teacher, Ms. Watson, wasn't going to work there anymore. Harry noticed that Aunt Petunia and Uncle Vernon didn't look surprised. Maybe they put out a letter telling all the parents what happened. Harry just didn't like the smug look that Uncle Vernon was barely concealing from his face. Harry shrugged it off. Ever since Halloween, Uncle Vernon didn't like Ms. Watson. Tired, Harry walked out of the kitchen and walked to his cupboard, falling asleep almost as soon as he hit his cot.

~~~~~

Well, thanks so much for reading! Thanks especially to my reviewers:

Kateri1- Yeah, I know, its too bad for Harry, but Mr. Snape's views are starting to change!

SilverKnight7 – Eustace is a muggle-born wizard so he doesn't know who Harry is. But he believes in magic because he went to Narnia by way of magic.

Arafel2- Yay! You finally get your wish!

Anora- So sorry! This one is much longer so I hope you enjoyed it!

Rhysel Ash – Thanks! I'm glad you like that! I love the Chronicles of Narnia!

Azntgr01 – Sorry about that! I decided to give Harry a break!

Prd2bAmerican18 – Here! Hope you like it!

Molly Morrison – Thanks! I know, its not quite like Harry's school, but I like Eustace a lot in this story and I think its nice for another character to be there and better than anything I could have made up!

Makafuiniel – Haha! That would be funny!

Pip3 – Thanks! And this chapter is longer for you!

Fyre – SO glad you like it! I just had to put the cupboard thing in there because Harry needed hope in his life. Yeah, Snape is reverse blinded. I mean, how can anyone think that they are the only one who can see something, especially something like that. He's so dense that it is frustrating sometimes! Glad you like it!

DxInsider – I have no doubt that you will, but what makes you think that Harry will be saved by the muggles?

Melissa – Eustace is muggle born. He will be going to Hogwarts, that is the first time he would hear Harry's story.

MarsIsBrightTonight – Yes he is, he is also in "The Silver Chair"

Badassgothicgirl – so sorry! Glad you like the chapter!

Barbara Kennedy – Ok, ok, I got the hint, his opinion is changing!

Rachel A. Prongs – Snape is dense, what can I say?

Ping*pong5 – thanks, Eustace is becoming a little more important. Unfortunately, our dear Ms. Watson has departed from this story.

Kady Rilla Wholi – He is starting to pick it up, don't worry!

Starr2 – I'm glad it put you in a good mood!

Tenshi-Chikyuu – Thanks!

Phoenix Flight – Thanks!!! I am so glad people like Eustace in this story!
GoddessMoonLady – Yes, I am glad that Ms. Watson got to have a go at Snape. He needed it! Glad you like it!

Missy Black – Yes, Eustace will go to Hogwarts!

Kenny7 – Don't worry he didn't get into any more than usual.

Lotus Myst – Thanks, I am glad you like it! I know, I wasn't planning on adding a buddy but I broke down in the end, Harry needs a friend, even if he is older!

Eva McGregor – Sure you can beat up Snape, if you really want to, but I think he redeems himself somewhat in this chapter!

Moonlady – Thanks! I completely understand that you weren't flaming me. It was total constructive criticism and I appreciate that! I did say at the top of the last chapter to ignore the time frames, however, sorry, I should have made it more obvious. As to Snape talking to someone about Harry like that, yeah, he was a bit snarky. I just got the idea from the book that Snape complained to the other professors at Hogwarts about Harry and thought that he would do so here as well. Sorry about that!

ER – So glad you like it!

Tati1- this is going to mostly be the time that Snape is there. A little bit will be while Harry is at Hogwarts, but not too much. As to how it will all play out, you will just have to wait and see, but I still stick by what I said before. I am trying to make it as much like the original story as possible!

Samara-chan – So glad you liked it! Sorry about Snape being so dense and all! Haha! I think your revenge is hilarious and that it would play out exactly like that! Hilarious!

TeeDee – Thanks!

bbb – sorry about the shortness! All my other chapters were that long as well!

Lindiel Eryn – So glad you like! I always love when I open a new story and there are two new chapters!!!

Shezan – I know, most boys would be happy to say they don't exist, but in "Narnia" Eustace goes on a trip where he becomes a better person and is much nicer so I was just letting that come through a lot. I had to smack my younger brother upside the head the other day for doing just that, then had to convince a crying five-year-old, that Santa claus does in fact exist!

Watcher Tale Neith – Yep, everyone is clueless, I love Eustace, too bad Ms. Watson finally figures it out and has to leave now!

Susan – Yes, you are right! Harry is only five and it is horrible to treat him like that! You are actually the only reviewer out of 300 that has even thought to suggest social services being called! Congrats! I added that part up just for you! You should have had to wait another week for it! So really, everyone owes the double chapter to you! Yay!

LittleEar BigEar's sis – So glad that you like it! Yep, it is a pretty quick update!

Cally – So glad you liked it!

Ok, please review and tell me what you thought of the story! Thanks!