Chapter 36
The next day was the beginning of Christmas holiday. Which meant that most of the students were leaving. All who remained were a few teachers, Ron, Hermione, Harry, two Hufflepuff girls, three Ravenclaw, and two Slytherin.
When Alex and Severus arrived at the Great Hall the next morning they found that the large house tables had been moved and there was just one table large enough for those who remained.
"Good morning Alexandra, Severus." Albus said as they sat at the table.
"Good morning Albus." Alex smiled, taking a seat between Minerva and Severus.
"So did everyone enjoy the ball last night?" Albus asked cheerfully, putting some jam on his toast. There were a few sleepy murmurs of 'yes' and 'it was alright.'
The rest of the meal was rather quiet until Harry, Ron, and Hermione stood to leave. "Oh Harry I need to see you in my office. As well as you two." Albus said to Severus and Alex. Hermione and Ron both gave Harry a strange glance before leaving the room.
Albus stood and led Harry out of the room, followed by Alex and Severus. They walked quietly to Dumbledore's office where they took seats, except for Severus who leaned against the wall closest to Alex.
"Now I suspect you all know why you are here?" Dumbledore asked, all three shook their heads yes. "Very good. I just wanted to see that you are starting soon. And that Harry understands why he is to be learning this."
"I understand Headmaster." Harry said.
"Very good. Now I'll let you be off, I'm sure you'll need to discuss when to meet for lessons." Albus smiled.
"May I speak with you privately Headmaster?" Harry asked quietly.
"Of course you may." Albus smiled kindly at the boy.
"Come to my office when you're finished Harry." Alex said, before leaving with Severus. Harry waited for the click of the door before he began to speak.
"What do you wish to speak with me about?"
"About my... Aunt Alex."
"Continue."
"I was just wondering if, that is if it's alright with her, maybe I could stay with her during summer holidays?"
Dumbledore was silent with thought for a few moments. "I suppose that would be alright, if Alexandra is okay with it. Although I feel I must warn you Harry that Alexandra might be spending summer holiday with Severus. I now that the two of you don't necessarily get along."
"Professor I think that even that is manageable compared to living with the Dursleys."
"Very well, you have my support in the matter." Albus smiled at the boy brightly before sending him on his way.
Harry slowly made his way to his aunt's office. Sad to think that he'd rather spend summer holidays with a near perfect stranger and his most hated professor rather than with the only family he has had the displeasure of knowing for 16 years now.
To some this may seem sad and rather disturbing. But to Harry, it was his first chance out since his third year of school when Sirius asked him to come and live with him.
Finally a way out of life with the Dursleys... If she says yes that is...